Updated January 12, 2026.
Salem, Oregon’s dining scene continues to grow in all the right ways. Over the past several months, we’ve seen longtime favorites expand, new concepts take root, and fresh flavors arrive in both Salem and nearby Keizer. These openings reflect the creativity and community spirit that make eating local so special.
Here are some of the newest local restaurants in the Salem area worth adding to your must-try list.
Restaurante El Jacalito
Taqueria El Jacalito has expanded with a second Salem location on McGilchrist Street SE. Known for their authentic Mexican dishes and generous portions, the new spot makes it even easier to find great tacos, burritos, and other favorites without going far.
Umai
Umai is a new Asian fusion restaurant in Keizer, serving fresh poke bowls with customizable toppings and hearty flavors. The menu also offers a range of bento boxes, rice bowls, ramen, and classic Japanese snacks! With lots of variety and a flexible menu, Umai is a great choice for everything from quick lunches to relaxed sit-down meals.
Hanal Kiin
Got a hankering for traditional Mayan cuisine? Visit Hanal Kiin! This new restaurant in Keizer highlights authentic Mayan flavors and cultural cooking techniques. Their menu is small but mighty. Swing by for Cochinita Pibil, a slow-roasted Maya-style pulled pork with pickled onions or treat yourself to an Empanada de Coco (sweet pastry filled with coconut).
Ginza Sushi and Ramen
Located on Commercial Street SE, Ginza Sushi and Ramen serves a comforting mix of sushi rolls and steaming ramen bowls. The kitchen focuses on quality ingredients, traditional recipes, and thoughtful service. The menu includes standouts like premium bluefin tuna, A5 wagyu, and rich, slow-simmered ramen prepared with care and precision.
Flower Crush
Flower Crush has moved into the former Lullu’s Tutto Cucina space on Court Street NE, bringing a café-market concept that blends soup, coffee (and tea!), flowers, and community. With the launch of their "Soup Society," you can choose from two daily soup options. Their scratch-made soups include flavors like beef barley, chicken and dumplings, zuppa toscana, creamy tomato basil, curried coconut squash, and more. They also have rotating monthly specials that extend to their coffees, teas, and fresh flowers.
Encore Restaurant
Encore is located next to Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre on High Street NE, making it a natural choice for a night out downtown. In the kitchen, Chef Aaron draws from the warmth and tradition of Italian cooking, while Chef Victor brings bold Latin influences to the menu. Together, their approach blends techniques and cultures in a way that feels thoughtful and well-balanced rather than overcomplicated.
Which new spot are you planning to try first?