Side Hustle Bar: Unfiltered Reviews of Salem's High-Energy Nightspot
Looking for a cozy yet lively spot to unwind in Salem? Side Hustle Bar is a popular choice for locals and visitors alike, offering a blend of great food, strong drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere. The tacos, particularly the veggie and asada options, have received high praise for both taste and value. Complementing these dishes are their tall, well-crafted margaritas, which come with a grand mariner float, adding a unique twist to a classic drink.
Located at 145 Liberty St NE, Side Hustle Bar stands out not just for its food and drink, but also for its ambiance. Despite being a typical sports bar, it maintains a cozy and friendly vibe, making it an ideal spot for various occasions. The service quality also earns notable mentions, with patrons appreciating the attentive and friendly staff.
The bar's close proximity to local attractions, like Salem's Riverfront Carousel, makes it a convenient stop for those exploring the area. Whether you're looking to grab a quick bite, enjoy a leisurely meal, or simply relax with a drink, Side Hustle Bar offers a reliable and enjoyable experience.
Exploring Side Hustle Bars
Side hustle bars have emerged as a unique phenomenon in the bar industry, offering innovative concepts and unique experiences across different cities. From the vibrant cocktail scene at London's NoMad Hotel to the authentic Mexican offerings in Salem, each bar brings its own flair and charm.
Definition and Rise of Side Hustle Bars
Side hustle bars are often secondary ventures by entrepreneurs or professionals with primary careers in different fields. They typically emphasize creativity and innovation, offering unique beverages and themed experiences. This type of bar has gained popularity due to its ability to cater to niche markets and offer something distinct from traditional bars.
These bars often reflect the personal interests and tastes of their owners, leading to a diverse range of offerings. The rise of side hustle bars can be attributed to the growing trend of individuals seeking additional income streams and engaging in passion projects.
Overview of Side Hustle Bar in Salem
Side Hustle Bar in Salem, located at 145 Liberty St NE Suite #101, is known for its blend of traditional Mexican cuisine and a wide array of beverages. The bar has garnered positive reviews for its vibrant atmosphere, excellent service, and quality offerings like Tacos Al Pastor and Loaded Nachos.
Customer reviews highlight the friendly service, particularly noting staff members like Paulina. The bar's casual yet lively environment appeals to both locals and visitors, making it a popular spot in Salem. The emphasis on authenticity and quality makes Side Hustle Bar a standout in the local dining scene.
Recognizing the Appeal of Side Hustle Bars in London
London's Side Hustle, located in the NoMad Hotel, combines the elegance of a classic British pub with the vibrancy of a Latin American cocktail bar. It ranks as one of the top bars in the world, known for its unique ambiance and high-quality drinks.
The establishment features wood-panelled, marble-topped bars and a cozy yet sophisticated setting. The choice of cocktails and the overall atmosphere reflect both the English and Latin influences, creating a unique experience for patrons. This combination of styles and influences has positioned London's Side Hustle as a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts.
Ambiance and Atmosphere
Side Hustle Bars are renowned for their strategic blend of aesthetic appeal and comfortable atmospheres. The ambiance is curated to offer a blend of sophistication and casual comfort, making these bars a must-visit for anyone seeking a distinctive nightlife experience.
Atmospheric Elements of Side Hustle Bars
The Side Hustle Bar's meticulously designed interiors create a memorable first impression. Centrally located in London's NoMad Hotel, this bar is set inside a grade II-listed building, showcasing grandeur with wood-panelled walls and marble countertops.
Lighting plays a crucial role, with subtle warm tones accentuating the bar’s wood and leather materials. Patrons are greeted by a poker-faced yet inviting space where every detail contributes to a cohesive setting. The use of high-quality materials like velvet and polished stone further establishes an air of polished elegance.
Creating the Unique Side Hustle Vibe
Every element of the Side Hustle Bar is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, aiming to embody both vibrancy and sophistication. The bar offers a selection of Latin American dishes and inventive cocktails, enhancing the overall experience with rich flavors and aromas.
Seating arrangements are thoughtfully laid out to balance social interaction and personal space, making it fitting for both lively gatherings and intimate conversations. The art and decor feature understated yet captivating pieces, enhancing the visual appeal without overwhelming guests.
The overall design philosophy is evident in the balanced juxtaposition of traditional and modern elements, making Side Hustle a unique venue in the heart of London.
Menu Insights
Side Hustle Bar offers a varied selection of food and beverages, including both American and Mexican dishes with a significant focus on tacos and creative cocktails. Here, a closer look at some of their best options.
Highlighting Popular Dishes
The menu at Side Hustle Bar features standout items such as tacos and nachos. Patrons frequently praise the veggie and asada tacos, noting their rich flavors and affordability.
Customers highlight the quality of the asado, which is tender and perfectly cooked. The accompanying salsa and guacamole receive high marks for their spice and freshness.
Cocktail Creativity and Selection
Their cocktails are another major attraction. Margaritas at Side Hustle Bar are particularly popular due to their unique Grand Marnier float.
Drinks are noted for being strong and well-prepared. The bar’s ambiance—friendly and cozy despite its sports bar setting—makes it an ideal spot to enjoy these creations. The tall drinks and various cocktail options enhance the dining and social experience.
Exploring American and Mexican Cuisine
Side Hustle Bar combines American and Mexican cuisine effectively. Their menu especially excels in Mexican offerings with Mexican dishes like tacos and nachos taking center stage.
American cuisine is also well-represented in their selection, though it serves more as a complementary aspect. The balance between these two cuisines ensures a diverse eating experience for patrons, catering to different tastes while maintaining quality.
Bartender and Service Experience
Exceptional bartender performance and impeccable service quality are pivotal to the success of any bar. Understanding these elements can help ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for patrons.
Professionalism of Bartenders
Bartenders' professionalism is vital in creating a welcoming atmosphere. They must demonstrate knowledge of various drinks, showcase mixology skills, and maintain a composed demeanor during busy periods. Professionalism also includes punctuality, adherence to dress codes, and following hygiene standards.
Bartenders should also exhibit strong communication skills. This helps them understand customers' preferences and deliver satisfactory service. They must manage customer interactions efficiently to handle large crowds without compromising service quality.
Professional bartenders often multitask, managing stock levels and ensuring bar cleanliness. Training and experience play a significant role in honing these skills, contributing significantly to a bar’s reputation.
Quality of Service Delivery
The quality of service delivery encompasses the promptness and efficiency with which orders are taken and served. Efficient service minimizes wait times and enhances the customer experience. Bartenders must balance speed with accuracy, ensuring each drink is prepared correctly.
Personal interaction is also key. Friendly and attentive service fosters loyal clientele. Bartenders who remember regular customers and their favorite drinks can enhance the personalized experience.
Service quality extends to handling payments smoothly. Bartenders should be proficient with POS systems to accurately process transactions and manage tabs. An eye for detail and a commitment to excellence in service delivery can transform a casual visit into a memorable experience.
Operational Details
Side Hustle Bar, located at 145 Liberty St NE Suite #101, offers a variety of operational features. Below, find details on their business hours, accessibility, and how to book for events.
Business Hours and Peak Times
Side Hustle Bar operates seven days a week. The typical hours are:
Monday to Thursday: 4:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Friday: 4:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Saturday: 12:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Peak times are generally Friday and Saturday evenings. Weekends, especially late Saturdays, see the highest foot traffic. Labor Day specials or other holiday events can also affect visitation patterns, so planning ahead is advisable.
Location and Accessibility
Located at 145 Liberty St NE Suite #101, Salem, Side Hustle Bar sits conveniently within a bustling area. The bar's central location ensures easy accessibility via public transport and ample parking spots nearby.
The entrance is designed to be wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity. Additionally, clear signage along Liberty St NE guides patrons easily to the venue.
The ambiance combines a modern, yet rustic charm, complemented by wood-paneling and marble tops, contributing to its inviting atmosphere.
Information on Booking and Events
Side Hustle Bar offers booking options for private gatherings, including birthday parties, corporate events, and social meetups. Reservations can be made through their official website or by phone.
They host a variety of events, such as live music nights, quiz evenings, and themed parties. Special event calendars and updates are frequently posted on their social media platforms. Patrons are encouraged to book in advance for weekends or special events to secure their spots.
It's important to inquire about any specific requirements or restrictions while making a reservation to ensure a smooth experience. Booking details and event queries are typically handled by their dedicated event coordinator.
Beverage Selection
Side Hustle Bars are known for their diverse and thoughtfully curated beverage options that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
Beer and Brews at Side Hustle Bars
Side Hustle Bars often feature an impressive rotating selection of local and international beers. Many locations pride themselves on supporting regional breweries, offering unique and limited-edition brews not commonly found elsewhere.
Their beer menus typically include IPAs, stouts, lagers, and pilsners. Regulars may appreciate special events like tap takeovers, where a featured brewery showcases multiple varieties.
Additionally, some locations provide bottled ciders and seasonal drink specials, ensuring there's something for everyone. The commitment to quality and variety ensures a satisfying experience for any beer enthusiast.
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Side Hustle Bar has received a variety of customer feedback, touching on various aspects of the dining experience. Customers often highlight both favorable and unfavorable elements.
Analyzing Consumer Feedback
Customers have given Side Hustle Bar a positive rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on 133 reviews. Many reviews commend the bar for its delicious tacos and nicely cooked asado, often mentioning the Mexican dishes as a highlight.
The atmosphere is frequently described as lovely and inviting, which encourages patrons to extend their stay. However, some reviewers did notice inconsistencies in service quality during peak hours.
Despite occasional critiques, the general sentiment is favorable, emphasizing the bar's inviting ambiance and stellar cuisine. The combination of tasty food and a comfortable atmosphere appears to resonate well with most visitors.
Partnering with NoMad Hotel
Side Hustle is seamlessly integrated within the luxurious NoMad Hotel in London's Covent Garden. This partnership brings together the hotel’s sleek design with Side Hustle’s lively Mexican-inspired menu. The NoMad Hotel, known for its elegant architecture and plush ambiance, provides a fitting backdrop for the dynamic and vibrant atmosphere of Side Hustle.
Given that the bar is housed in a former police station, the interior reflects an interesting blend of historical elements and modern luxury. Wood-panelled walls, marble-topped bars, and carefully crafted lighting all contribute to a unique dining experience. This setting allows Side Hustle to thrive in a classic yet contemporary environment.
The beverage offerings feature a wide array of drinks, heavily influenced by the NoMad’s well-established reputation in New York. This collaboration elevates Side Hustle's status, enhancing its profile within London's competitive hospitality scene. The influence of the NoMad Hotel’s New York legacy is evident and helps set Side Hustle apart from other bars in the area.
The menu focuses on Latin American flavors, pairing perfectly with the carefully curated list of agave-based spirits and creative cocktails. This partnership ensures that both hotel guests and visitors can enjoy a memorable sip and savor moments within the iconic NoMad property.
In essence, the collaboration between Side Hustle and the NoMad Hotel demonstrates a successful blend of history, luxury, and innovative culinary delights, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.
