Two Salem Watering Holes Named Among Zagat's Hottest Bars in Boston

SALEM, MA — Salem may not necessarily be known for its night life, but some of the city's local bars are recognized as being able to hang with the big boys. In the latest installment of Zagat's Hottest Bars in Boston series, the renowned travel website and publication has recognized two Salem watering holes as among the area's "hottest" bars.

Notch Brewery & Tap Room and Bit Bar made the latest edition of the list, which lauds the establishments beer assortments and environment. Customers making their way to Notch Brewery in Tap Room at 283R Derby St. was praised for its Infinite Jest beer.

"Draft lines flow at this popular craft beer producer's Salem brewery and taproom, where fans gather for pints (and a round of Skee-Ball) in a hip, warehouse-like space with communal tables for clinking frothy mugs and an ample, river basin–side beer garden for those who prefer their suds with a side of fresh air," wrote Zagat in its description of Notch Brewery and Taproom.

Bit Bar was lauded for its video game-themed drinks, and its craft beer selection. The 50 St. Peter St. drinkery was also recognized for its Arcade Era Karaoke on Sundays.

"The Old Salem Jail has been transformed into a playful, funky and nostalgia-tinged hangout featuring a host of coin-operated '80s and '90s arcade games and pinball machines. Members of Gen-Y can relive their childhoods in between bites of comfort foods like donut burgers and Pop Tart cake pops and sips of craft beer," Zagat writes of Bit Bar.

See more of the area's hottest bars from Zagat.

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