Often we hear that Salem has no cool places to go, but whose fault is that? I think Salem has some cool places to go, just none of the cool people go to them. Roberts Crossing is one of those places. A tad bit out of the way on South River Road, eclectic mix of rustic with just enough of a tipped up nose to make you want to wear your good clothes.
The bar is all old beautiful hardwood with a long row of bar stools that is just waiting for a rowdy bunch to come in. Sure, the guys sitting in the corner drinking scotch might get a tad bit annoyed, but the waitstaff and owners Jim and Chris Glodt would welcome it.
Of course, I have to admit I have a bit of a party streak, and Roberts Crossing has just the place. Grab 15 or so friends and take over the party shack, a rustic building off the patio that mixes candlelight, rustic vintage charm and enough customer service to make any event or party a good time.
The Glodts took over the restaurant in November, and have worked hard to make sure it fits Salem’s needs. “We have made a conscious effort to create an atmosphere that has a sense of past history. We have enjoyed using and implementing items that have since outlived their original use,” says Jim Glodt.
The food and drinks can be a bit on the spendy side, but the atmosphere and special feeling that you get once you step inside makes it a good place for a gathering.
No typical fried bar food is on the menu; only upscale finger foods that leave you with a smile. Offerings include chicken wings, a Philly sandwich and beer-battered jalapeño poppers, or maybe coconut shrimp with sweet chili sauce.
Glodt likes the challenge of the business. “It’s been closed for a while, and I wanted to give the neighborhood a place they could come and enjoy. I kind of resurrected the place.”
Roberts Crossing
3635 River Rd. S
