Bit Bar Salem Is Now Open With Games and Elk Burgers

The Old Salem Jail is no more, and Bit Bar has officially arrived, bringing with it a slew of arcade games and an inventive menu that includes a doughssant elk burger. Starting at noon today, Bit Bar opened its doors to adventurous gamers and eaters after months of preparation.

The hybrid arcade and restaurant has a specifically designed menu that allows for portability for patrons hopping between games, as Eater previously reported. In addition to the skinny tables situated around the games, Bit Bar has full-service table seating, and guests can keep a tab open at the bar.

Bit Bar has more than 30 arcade games and pinball machines on hand, including gems like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, NBA Jam, Tempest, and Donkey Kong, to name just a few. The restaurant plans to rotate out the games occasionally.

On the menu, executive chef Eric Hammer has hearty entrees like the aforementioned elk burger, served on a donut-croissant hybrid with smoked cheddar, bacon, and black garlic icing; pastrami chicken wings; buffalo spiced popcorn; and even a veggie lo mein. For dessert, there are Pop Tart cake pops, avocado ice cream, and a dessert version of what Bit Bar is calling the "doughssant."

For beverages, Bit Bar continues the arcade theme. The cocktail list includes a drink called the Ghost Eater, which features ghost pepper-infused tequila, and the Blanka, made with Macchu Pisco, lime, fresh ginger, simple syrup, ginger brew, and bitters. There is also a selection of beer and cider, featuring some local breweries.

Bit Bar will be open Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 12 p.m. to 1 a.m., and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. The restaurant has plans to extend its hours in the coming months.