On one of these lovely days that offer a sneak preview of spring - I'm beginning to scent blossoming things! - what more pleasant way to learn a little lore of Salem than to go on a walking tour of the Court-Chemeketa Historic District. At the end of the stroll a refreshing beer beckons, of course.
The hot new place in town is Word of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro.
It is located in what looks to be a 19-teens craftsman style home just outside of the Court-Chemeketa Historic District (big pdf). It's been updated with a comfy "crate & barrel" bungalow style. Many of the original rooms remain, so the dining and drinking areas are never large. There's a short bar with a handful of chairs. (There's a distracting TV, alas. Does a charming neighborhood bistro really need a TV?)
The owners have roots in Salem and interestingly have experienced nearly all the historic buildings downtown. At one time they operated Busick Court in the Bush-Brey Annex, The Pointe in the Bush-Brey Block, and The Brick in the Gray building.
They also have a blog.
Eat Salem has a full review of the food and updates on the evolving menu. The Word recently added dinner service.
The Word has three taps: Deschutes Black Butte Porter & Mirror Pond Pale Ale, as well as Lost Coast Great White. Like the furniture and decor, it's a comfy tap list, and one I don't expect is likely to change much.
The Word is a restaurant for walking to. It's the kind of restaurant all walkable neighborhoods need.
Now if they'll just ditch the TV and add bike parking, it might be perfect.
I've always wanted whatever business was contained in this house to thrive, but also always bemoaned the lack of bike parking. Even a "staple rack" would help!
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