La Margarita Restaurant and Grill

Quick Verdict

La Margarita Restaurant and Grill at 545 Ferry St SE is Salem's go-to for Mexican food when you want a sit-down meal without the fuss of a reservation system. If you've been once and enjoyed it, the consistent crowd and relaxed atmosphere make it easy to return — and easy to bring someone new without overthinking the logistics.

Who Goes Here

The crowd at La Margarita skews toward regulars and families. This is a neighborhood restaurant in the practical sense: people come back because the formula works, not because they're chasing a reservation win. If you showed up once for a weeknight dinner and it hit the spot, you'll recognize the same mix of local families, groups of coworkers, and a handful of first-timers on the next visit. It's not a scene, and it's not trying to be. If you're looking for a lively cocktail bar atmosphere, Far From The Tree or Archive Coffee & Bar will suit you better. If Mexican food with a relaxed, family-friendly room is what you're after, La Margarita fits.

Booking and Timing

Booking difficulty here is easy. Walk-ins are the norm rather than the exception, and the reservation window is short if you need one at all. That said, weekend evenings can draw a fuller room — if you're coming with four or more people and want to avoid a wait, calling ahead is worth doing even if it's not strictly required. For a party of two on a weekday, just show up.

What to Focus On Next Time

If you've already done the obvious , chips, salsa, the familiar mains , push into the grilled options the name suggests. The grill component of the menu is worth treating as its own category rather than an afterthought. Ask what's moving fastest that evening; the kitchen at restaurants like this tends to have a rhythm, and the staff will know what's coming out well.

Know Before You Go

Explore More in Salem

For a broader look at where to eat, drink, and stay in the city, browse our full Salem hotels guide, our full Salem wineries guide, and our full Salem experiences guide. If you're curious how Salem's bar and restaurant scene compares to cocktail-focused venues elsewhere, Bar Leather Apron in Honolulu, Jewel of the South in New Orleans, and Julep in Houston give a useful reference point for what destination bar programs look like.

FAQs

• Do I need a reservation at La Margarita Restaurant and Grill? No , walk-ins are the standard here, and booking difficulty is easy. For groups of four or more on a Friday or Saturday evening, a quick call ahead will save you a wait, but for two people on a weeknight, just arrive.
• What's the crowd like at La Margarita Restaurant and Grill? Predominantly local regulars and families. It's a neighborhood restaurant without a scene attached to it. If you want a livelier, more social atmosphere, Far From The Tree or Chen's Family Dish Six Wok & Bar offer a different energy.
• Does La Margarita Restaurant and Grill have happy hour deals? Specific happy hour details aren't confirmed in our current data. Check directly with the restaurant for current pricing and promotions, as these can shift seasonally.
• Is La Margarita Restaurant and Grill good for groups? Yes, particularly for casual group dinners. The relaxed, family-friendly format handles groups well. For larger parties, calling ahead is advisable. If your group wants something more seafood-forward, Mariscos Las Islas Marias De Salem is worth considering as an alternative.