Flight Deck is one of Salem’s hidden gems. Call me crazy, but I think it is romantic and a fun place. I realize calling one of Salem’s standbys trendy isn’t cool. But what you might not know is that quite a lot goes on at the airport. Adventure can be had, and even better with a drink in hand.
The Flight Deck has upgraded the menu; they have about four dishes with Weight Watcher points, and new dishes with new kick with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients. “We do breakfast on the weekends,” said Paul Schweickert, bartender. “Saturday morning is a great time to come in and watch the weekend pilots take off, especially on a pretty day.”
The bar, admittedly, does attract an older crowd. But that is not because of the hip factor, it’s the hours. “We open from 11 to 9 on weekdays, and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends,” said Schweickert. “The best time to come for a lot of traffic is a sunny weekend,” he said. But you never know what you are going to see. With the National Guard right next door you can watch Black Hawk helicopters take off, or thunderstorms and the sunset off Mt. Jefferson while eating dessert.
Paul has been bartending for the Flight Deck for 13 years. “I like making margaritas and lemon drops. I like making whatever the customer wants, but those two are great standbys.” Paul is being humble – he makes a dynamite Cosmopolitan. If you want a friendly place, where your business is appreciated, check out the Flight Deck. Warning: it is not where the party is. However, Paul knows that the group can have a good time. “People get happy in the bar; it is fun. New people feel welcome right away,” he said. So plan a trip, but consider the Flight Deck a stop before your next leg.
The Flight deck has $10 dinner specials and special appetizer pricing in the bar. From 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. grab $2 off well drinks and beer. For entertainment, the floor to ceiling windows are a hit.
