Salar Restaurant and Lounge

Peruvian restaurant · Dayton

Salar Restaurant and Lounge

Peruvian restaurant · Dayton

2

400 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402

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Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by Salar
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null
Salar Restaurant and Lounge by null

Highlights

Nestled in Dayton's Historic Oregon District, Salar offers a chic vibe with globally inspired dishes, exceptional cocktails, and welcoming service.  

Featured in Eater
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400 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402 Get directions

salarrestaurant.com
@salardayton

$50–100 · Menu

Reserve

Information

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400 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402 Get directions

+1 937 203 3999
salarrestaurant.com
@salardayton

$50–100 · Menu

Reserve

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Last updated

Jul 11, 2025

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@eater

"Run by Peruvian expat and executive chef Margot Blondet, Salar is one of the swankier spots in the Oregon District, showcasing a fusion of Peruvian, French, and Mediterranean influences. Enjoy a drink at the secluded pisco bar while you wait for a table, and then order the Northern Peruvian-style braised lamb shank: a bone-in New Zealand lamb shank simmered in chicha de jora (fermented corn drink); the meat practically melts off the bone." - David Nilsen

The 18 Best Restaurants in Dayton, Ohio
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@exploretock

"Located in Dayton's Historic Oregon District, Salar features an exciting menu of World-fusion cuisine with strong Peruvian, French, and Mediterranean influences."

CINCINNATI CITY GUIDE
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olivia marshall

Google
Genuinely one of the best meals I think I've ever had!! The restaurant also has a really nice atmosphere. Very friendly staff, and while it is pricey, it doesn't feel uptight. Will be going back when possible. Awesome cocktails, scallops, and desserts. Try the flour less chocolate cake🤤🤤

Steven B

Google
Nice upscale restaurant with amazing food. The bar area service was great on a sunday evening. The parmesean scallops were some of the bea ive had. Perfectly cooked and toasted with crispy parmesean. I also got the lamb shank, it was exactly as described. It was good but lacked what i was looking for. Overall great experience.

Jeff Butterfield

Google
Incredible. When spending money at a fine dining establishment, you should expect expertly prepared food and cocktails. At Salar, you get this level of perfection, and then some! Starting off with a cocktail or three, (the whiskey smash was excellent followed by a couple old fashioneds - they do not skimp on the alcohol) let me just say WOW! Something I've never seen is the menu offering that if you can't find a cocktail that suits you, tell the bartender the taste you're looking for.... and they'll create one for you! The presentation of the charred Ceasar salad defines fine dining while the salad, itself, provided unique tastes that were...WOW! The main course was the double pork chop. Cooked to perfection, the spices tickled my taste buds and really brought out the flavor of the chop without overpowering it. The mashed potatoes and leeks were delicious! WOW! Dessert was a butterscotch mouse that I shared with my wife. My only mistake was not ordering my own! WOW! Service was top-notch! I literally enjoyed every bite and sip!

Marissa Quigley

Google
You just don’t know what you are missing out on at Salar! Today started the Salar Brunch Season and you need to make time to visit! From the Bloody Mary with Black Lava Salt and the lightest, tastiest Brunch Empanadas to the spectacular Eggs Benedict and expertly executed French toast, we thoroughly enjoyed our meal and so will you. The staff at Salar are welcoming, knowledgeable and accommodating. Salar, yet again you provided a delightful and delicious meal for us!!

ryandolin91

Google
Went with a lot of the recommendations from other reviews and they did not dissappoint! Scallops parmesan, manchego and ham croquettes, pork chop(!), lamb, short ribs, and more were amazing! One of the few spots open on a Sunday eve in town. Beautiful and large space; our server was awesome and helped fill the gap on desserts and cocktails.

Jessica R

Google
Salar never disappoints. The food, drinks, atmosphere, and service are always top tier and encapsulate the definition of fine dining. I almost always order the lamb shank and the quality is consistent. Cocktails are delicious and the service is impressive. Mark has been my waiter a few times now and after last night, i will make it a point to request his service for future visits. Literally the best service I have ever experienced. This place is a treasure to us Daytonians!

Nicholas Lukens

Google
Very quiet, elegant place. I have eaten here a few times. The food has been spectacular every time! A little on the pricey side, but worth every penny. We even pick up their specialty rotisserie-style chicken some nights to take home for dinner. I would recommend everyone check it out, especially if you enjoy South-American cuisine. ❤️

Dan Gentry

Google
Absolutely amazing food, absolutely amazing staff, absolutely amazing drinks. We moved here from Washington D.C., and this place 100% captures the upscale D.C. vibe, energy, and atmosphere... at Dayton prices. Every member of the staff that we have interacted with have been so wonderful, and you can tell that they all work well together, and likely have for a long time. Brunch or dinner, it doesn't matter, the food and service will always be 5 star!

John V.

Yelp
I am writing this review because it is so easy to write -Fabulous! I was going to stop there but thought perhaps I should go into more detail: 1). Food - Fabulous! 2). Wait staff - Fabulous! 3). Cool factor - Fabulous! Ok - more! I love a good beet salad. Theirs was top notch with perfect dressing, arugula, candied nuts, and blue cheese (goat cheese preferred, but...). And I had the best ceviche I've had in the USA. And a properly prepared Pisco sour. This place is worthy of a fancy NYC joint. My wife had this wild warm caprissi salad and some wonderful huge scallops. Now I am looking for excuses to visit Dayton. (Also being a railfan sitting on the patio, the six trains that passed by were a big plus). Go!!!!

Taylor R.

Yelp
I really wanted to like Salar after reading all the great reviews but it seems to have fallen short tonight. Everyone was great, the atmosphere was really nice, non-alcoholic drinks were really good, but the food wasn't the greatest. I will say, the hummus and pita chips were super good though. For an appetizer we got the elote, which was good, however, I definitely would've liked to have it off the cob and like in a bowl. For the entree I got the artichoke alfredo with chicken and it was just alright. The artichokes were really lemony and charred and the chicken seemed like it was boiled and just thrown in. I was kind of expecting at least grilled chicken. The overall pasta and sauce were good though. My husband got the seafood rice and he said it was almost too fishy. Not to mention, he thinks the scallop wasn't fully cooked so he pushed it to the side. Maybe it was just an off day for the restaurant but I don't think we will go back any time soon. I'll definitely update the review if we do.

Sarah M.

Yelp
We had such a lovely family dinner here. My mother who is 100% gluten free (celiacs disease) was treated with the upmost respect. Our server was very attentive to her gluten free necessity. A lot of the menu is gluten free with items clearly marked. We were greeted at our tables with some delicious homemade pita bread and avocado hummus. It was lovely. My mother (who is gluten free) was personally brought her own little appetizer which still included the same hummus but with cold cut vegetables! What a lovely touch! For my meal, I tried the surf and turf which came with a perfectly cooked filet mignon, two grilled shrimp seasoned to perfection, and a scallop. The meats were served over chorizo risotto and green beans. It had this lovely and unique onion marmalade to go with the meat. I will be dreaming about this meal. It was seemingly delicious! For dessert we got something that I can't quite remember the name but it came with this heavenly cinnamon "ice cream" that I will be drooling thinking about until I eat here again!! Another thing that really set this place apart for me was that both of the drinks I requested and ordered were not on the menu. I asked for an espresso martini and a mojito. Both of which were perfectly made and delicious. Any restaurant/bar that can still make an amazing drink that is not on their menu gets extra brownie points from me. Overall, a 5 star experience. They have plenty of indoor seating and also a BACK hidden outdoor dining patio.

Kate K.

Yelp
This restaurant is fantastic, and easily the best restaurant in Dayton. I've been several times for dinner, and the food never disappoints. An added bonus for those of us with celiac, because there are plenty of safe options. The cocktails match the scale of the food as well. The Oregon District is lucky to have this on the strip!

Ted S.

Yelp
Tonight my wife and I decided to explore a taste of Peru from Salar, especially for its ceviche, sea bass, and lamb shank. Let me just say, it surpassed all our expectations. We were greeted with genuine smiles and an enthusiastic staff...Daniel kicked things off just right! For starters, we went with ceviche which had a burst of freshness! The ceviche was an absolute delight - tender, citrus-infused fish, perfectly balanced with the sweet and spicy notes of Peruvian peppers. It's a dish I'd come back for in a heartbeat The Sea Bass was the star of the evening. Cooked to perfection, the sea bass was flaky, moist, and infused with a blend of spices that highlighted its natural flavors without overpowering them. Paired with a side herbs and asparagus, it was a masterpiece The Lamb Shank was fall-off-the-bone tender, very flavorful, succulent, and well-seasoned as it practically melted in my wife's mouth. But you have to swap out the jasmine rice for risotto to really set the dish off The Tres Leches dessert is a sweet ending to an already fantastic meal. The cake was light, spongy, and soaked in just the right amount of creamy milk mixture, topped with a light whipped cream that wasn't too sweet but perfectly balanced As for the cocktails, including the hard to find Blantons, means no meal is complete without a great drink, and their cocktails were a hit! Creative, refreshing, and beautifully presented, each drink complemented our dishes wonderfully. Whether you're a fan of classics or in the mood to try something new, their bar won't disappoint, especially with Chelsea doing her thing! Overall, this Peruvian Dayton gem is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in authentic flavors, exceptional service, and a dining experience that leaves you planning your next visit before you've even left. Whether you're a ceviche aficionado or eager to explore Peruvian cuisine, you're in for a treat. Don't miss out on this culinary adventure!

Gloria Z.

Yelp
I would describe Salar as modern European chef-driven cuisine, with Peruvian being one of many influences. This classy restaurant is tucked in a corner on a cobblestone street in the heart of historic Oregon District. Its beautiful inside. The main dining room & bar gets busy and loud. There's a smaller more secluded room up front with its own little bar. Bar was not attended when we dined but I imagine it would be at busier times. We started with the calamari app which was a unique interpretation with a very spicy sauce. It made me thirsty- maybe that's the idea. I ordered Lomo Saltado as the quintessential Peruvian dish and I was a bit let down. The rice was separate from the rest and they don't offer those classic Peruvian condiments (the hot creamy green sauce) to drizzle over it. It wasn't bad, just not what I was hoping for. The star of the show was the short ribs my husband ordered, so full of flavor and meltingly tender. The polenta was perfectly seasoned and the presentation was beautiful including an edible flower. He admitted the flower was not the best; I cannot comment as I don't eat flowers. I am upset now browsing other reviews mentioning getting pita triangles with dip for a complimentary starter. I even asked our waiter if there was bread or something and he said NO, that the little plates were there in case you were sharing. Street parking is pretty much non existent but there's a pay lot right across the street. You have to go on a website to enter your plate # and credit card - and for Heaven's sake DON'T FORGET to log out before you drive away! Overall I really liked Salar and will return, and will definitely take them politely to task about the starter.

Casey G.

Yelp
Wow this Peruvian themed restaurant will knock your socks off. Amazing unique spices and fresh ingredients. I had the Brussels sprouts as appetizer and seafood rice ! Did not disappoint at all. Try it. I dare you !

Chris B.

Yelp
Fantastic ambiance, very attentive servers, fine spirits selection, and a delectable menu. Salar provides an excellent option for a finer dining experience where you will be treated with superb service and very tasty menu items with generous portions. The Lomo Saltado was purely reminiscent of the top-tier Lomo Saltado dishes I've had in the past. The beef here seems a bit of higher quality than your standard tho. The Machu Picchu Pork Chop was a behemoth but quality was not lacking despite the quantity served. The Duck Fried Rice was not a necessary order but I wanted to try it so there I was, in a gluttonous fashion just enjoying the delicious of every bite regardless of me being nearly full to capacity The duck flavor wasn't too overpowering, and the slight savoriness of the rice was so flavorful. I started the evening at the bar for drinks and slowly made my way to the main dining area. The bar is a very comfortable place to relax and enjoy cocktails. Coupled with friendly and attentive bartenders, I wouldn't have minded staying there all night. But the dining experience was also superb, with the wait staff being very pleasant and frequently checking in on our table.

Vero B.

Yelp
Walked in for an early dinner and they were able to sit me, my husband and a stroller without any reservations. Kudos for that! They have seating outside, great to take advantage of the great weather. The food was absolutely excellent with subtle flavors and quality ingredients. We had the Ceviche (spelled with a v!). It needed more white fish, but it was tasty. My husband had the "Tierra y Mar". The steak was good. The shrimp was good. The scallops were excellent! For desert we had the Lucuma Croustillant and it was amazing! Never had it before, so it was meat to try something new. 10/10. Even the coffee was good. Will be back.

Kim S.

Yelp
Salar is one of our favorite restaurants in Dayton! We have gone to many of their special events, including last night's August Wine Dinner. Their monthly wine dinners are 5 courses, each paired with wine. Event menus are posted online and you have to buy tickets ahead of time. We're already looking forward to next month's paella dinner!

Toni S.

Yelp
This was my second time coming here, but the first time trying the food. The first time I came was maybe 5 years ago for drinks. This is a cute restaurant with lots of seating. You have outside and inside options. Everyone was super friendly, the service was great. We got two appetizers. I'm not sure what the first appetizer we got was, it was either pita or some sort of bread. We also got calamari which was light, crispy, and perfectly cooked. My aunt got one of the specials for the weekend which was cod, with Pearl couscous and beats. I don't normally get fish when I go to restaurants but I did try the dish and everything paired really well together. I ordered their short rib that came with a Parmesan risotto. I liked the two together. When I reviewed the menu prior to coming, I saw it was a goat cheese risotto and I'm not a fan of goat cheese so I'm glad it was Parmesan instead. As far as drinks, I got two drinks, the chameleon which was this really nice and refreshing drink and the La pasion. The La pasion was recommended to me so I got that and it was mentioned that it was their most popular drink. I don't normally drink bourbon so I was a bit skeptical, but to my surprise, it was really good. For dessert we got the dessert that they had for their weekend special which was a dulce de leche crepe with pistachio ice cream. I love dulce de leche, I love crepes, and I love pistachio ice cream so this dessert was perfect and paired well together. The food, drinks, and overall experience was great. Everyone was so friendly and our stomachs left happy. I would definitely recommend and come back next time I visit dayton!

Gary C.

Yelp
Casual yet upscale; excellent service, and the food was delicious. Convenient public parking is nearby.

Alexa N.

Yelp
We went here to celebrate a 30th birthday and they had a prepaid menu option for everyone which includes an appetizer, salad, and entree. On the back there are drink options that are included. I got the empanada, charred caesar salad, and beef saltado. I cannot complain about anything. From service to drinks to food was spectacular. Parking is a little tough since you have to try to find street parking but there is a little lot near by. I'm not in Dayton often but would come back!

Taylor P.

Yelp
Salar is the place to be! My friend and I visited her for her birthday and we sat at the bar. We ordered a couple of cocktails + a bday shot. Our *woman* bartender was awesome and very friendly! Very welcoming atmosphere and our cocktails were very tasty. I ordered the About Last Night and the Chameleon; both were great. Highly recommend Salar. This will be our go-to girls night cocktail place.

Rachel R.

Yelp
Beautiful restaurant, great service and delicious food. We LOVED the ceviche!! I had the Sea Bass and my husband had the lamb shank. We enjoyed it! A great anniversary dinner.

Chris S.

Yelp
Happy to find a Peruvian place in Dayton with such great comfort food loaded with flavor! Server was friendly and everything came out perfect. Fun atmosphere too, will be back to sit at the bar! Highly recommended!!

Alisha E.

Yelp
Been here before but didn't know about the back side of try restaurant! It was classy and quaint. The food was exceptional and so was the service. Loved every second and every bite.

Edward O.

Yelp
Sat at the bar for a meal and drink before heading to the Wiley's comedy club. Impressed with the chandeliers and black and white decor. Although I like the music, some will not. They played up beat "umpf umpf umpf " music. The bar had beautiful fresh herbs while sitting here, Stevie Nicks broke out and the entire bar started singing along. You can tell the clientele are comfortable here. The steak and mushrooms was fantastic. I wanted to stay longer but I had to get to the show.

Dan S.

Yelp
Attended the August wine dinner and we had a great night. The food was interesting and the wine paired with each of the course really made the meal special. Below are two of my favorite courses

Michael Joseph B.

Yelp
Some of the best food in Dayton. I go on a regular basis because I am in love with the lamb.

John J.

Yelp
It was a rough day when a friend I happened into Salar in Dayton. We asked to be seated at the bar and were lucky enough to be greeted and served by Sara, the bar manager. Just a great attitude and sense of humor with the sixth sense that it was not an ordinary day. We had a cocktail and ordered dinner. I opted for a vodka based drink of the bartender's choice. It was delicious and included a touch of egg white which she shook until she broke into a sweat. A delightful cocktail made by an equally delightful person. Just what I needed. I ordered the Delmonico Ribeye, medium with a bit of char on the outside. She warned me that sometimes there were issues if it was ordered any cooler, but I knew I would be good with medium and so did she. The steak came and sadly it was too rare and I had to send back to be further grilled. When it finally came back it really was no better, but I don't like to throw away food so, as it was edible, I finished it along with the perfectly sautéed broccolini. There was some kind of fried croquette that came with the meal, but i didn't like them and they were raw in the middle. Sara was the star of the restaurant, but they need to put a lot more effort in the preparation of the food and then they just might be one of the best in the neighborhood. If there is a next time I am in Dayton, I will go back for the joy of it and will order something else because just maybe I wasn't the only one there having a rough day.

Maria P.

Yelp
The Peruvian Charred Caesar salad was the best I've had in a while. The Faroe Island Salmon was medium cooked to perfection and so with the roasted carrots and yucca patties. The sauce taste good. Tony knows how to make customers feel welcome and special. He let us sit in a quiet room with another couple. He is one classy server. The place looks very comfortable and beautiful. The place settings were perfect...thanks to the maitre d'. Daniel took my reservation...he was very polite. The restroom is clean. Thank you for a wonderful meal and the sweetest dessert...Volador. It was an evening to remember.

Justine B.

Yelp
Was quite disappointed. The place looks fancy and high end so I was expecting high end quality but didn't get that. The bathroom was a wreck like think of a college bar bathroom. That bad. The drinks took so long that we thought they may have forgotten about us. I was excited to try the lamb Shakshuka and it looked amazing but the taste was bland and there was 2 pieces of lamb in there. Why is this dish the cheapest thing to make but the most expensive brunch item? I understood when I thought I'd get a decent amount of lamb but 2 tiny cubes? Not worth it. Both the waffle and chicken was dry but was save-able by the syrup and hot honey. I did like the cocktail once I finally received it. Maybe they are just not good with brunch items but I won't be going back to find out

Eric R.

Yelp
Looking for great service? A cool vibe and atmosphere? Great food? Salar is the complete package and delivers all of it. Our waitress had great recommendations on drinks and our salad, and we decided to sample every variety of empanadas. I kept trying to figure out which empanada I liked the best and my conclusion was that the best one was whatever I was eating at the moment. I'm an empanada connoisseur as I grew up in Chile and have spent time in Peru and Ecuador. So it's great to see a local place in Dayton, Ohio that delivers authentic empanadas without having to travel abroad or visit a major city. The drinks were strong, just like a good cocktail should be. We splurged and ordered a dessert to share which consisted of soft crackers with layers of caramel ("manjar" for those who want to use the proper Spanish term) and cinnamon ice cream on the side. It was an excellent way to conclude a delightful meal. Lastly, the price was reasonable for what you are getting. It didn't feel too expensive or cheap, but just right. Everything about Salar is dialed in to perfection, and this may be my favorite restaurant in Dayton.

Tammy H.

Yelp
Not impressed. 2nd time visiting and food was bleh. Took forever to get acknowledged and then did not receive bread service as server clarified and others around us did get. Checked bill at the end and was charged $20 for a calamari app that we did not order. Will not be making the trip again!

Dave H.

Yelp
We've eaten at Salar several times and always found the food to be good but a bit overpriced. Last night's dinner was the final straw. My wife ordered the caprese salad which came with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil crostinis. $17. The salad arrived with two pitifully small crostinis, smaller than a business card. So she asked for some more. Two more equally small crostinis were served. When the bill arrived we were charged $2 for the extra crostinis. All told, we spent $167 for three entrees, two beers, a glass of wine, and two extra crostinis. No appetizers. No desserts. Enjoy the $2, Salar. There are too many other restaurants around Dayton where I'd rather spend my money.

Lou H.

Yelp
Salar in Dayton, OH, offers a delightful dining experience with delicious food and generously portioned dishes, making it a satisfying choice for those seeking flavorful meals in the area.

Ilene S.

Yelp
Our server was friendly, polite abs efficient. The meal started off with crispy pita chips and a dip which was offered to the table I'm guessing instead of the usually bread and butter most restaurants serve. Very unique and also tasty. For appetizers we shared the seafood Empanadas the dough was black which I'm guessing was squid ink and had a flour looking substance but I believe more sugar based. They were unique looking as well as being good. The ceviche was nicely done and served with a few pieces of breaded calamari which added to the texture of the dish. My duck ragu was good but was lacking seasoning. The pasta was cooked perfectly with a few nice size pieces of duck but the sauce itself was bland. The Seabass was good well, flakey and had an interesting crunchy topping. The stuffed chicken breast was moist but The filet tips with French fries was in my opinion the best meal of our table. We ended the meal with one dessert which came with a scoop of ice cream which was the highlight for my taste buds.

Maria W.

Yelp
Where do I start! The restaurant is definitely giving "grown up date Night & good drinks" lmbo! I don't remember the name of my drink, but what I do remember is how good it was! The atmosphere made us ( me & my boyfriend) not wanna leave the restaurant. Our waiter was super cute and attentive, she knew the menu inside and out and even suggested places for us to go, she had this Wednesday (Addams Family) vibe and I loved it. Now the food, it was absolutely delicious, The Ceasars salad was on the actual romane lettuce, it was veey different, but to my surprise, absolutely tasty and I could've eaten a second one. If I'm ever in Dayton Ohio again, this is a must do- re-visit again!!!

brittany s.

Yelp
Took my fiancé here for ahi's birthday. Overall, we had a great experience. The service was great: our server was attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. We didn't realize the meal came with pita and a cilantro dip that was super flavorful. We ordered empanadas and a caprese salad to start, expecting smaller plates. But they were sizeable and we definitely didn't need both. As for entrees, my fiancé had the Surf & Turf, which he found a bit disappointing due to the price. It is supposed to be served with risotto but instead came with mashed potatoes, which was part of the disappointment. I had the salmon which was excellent. We did also have dessert for the birthday, the sorbet was delicious and flavorful on a hot day, but whatever my fiancé had was a bit forgettable. Cocktails were terrific and wine list was really accessible. All in all, I'd come back for sure, but the menu and decor could use a little updating. Prices are also expensive, so I think the whole menu and experience could benefit from a refresh.

Nancy R.

Yelp
Location: Oregon District, Dayton Ohio Website: www.salad restaurant.com Hours: see website Menu: see website Parking: limited street parking available; paid public parking available within 2 blocks I had the good fortune to visit this incredible restaurant not just once but twice over the weekend, thanks to some holiday plans with friends in the downtown Dayton area. The first meal for the weekend was Saturday night for a full 3-course meal with cocktails and it was a remarkable experience. The restaurant is absolutely beautiful and every seating area is gorgeously appointed with comfortable seating and beautiful architectural, art, and lighting. We shared the Mahi Mahi fritters and fried calamari - substantial for just 3 people, but we were all very hungry so it was appreciated to have such large portions. We all ordered the "surf and turf" from the entree menu; which is a filet mignon cooked to order and served over impeccably prepared risotto, and topped with a perfectly seared jumbo sea scallop and two grilled shrimp. On the side are a lovely portion of shaved Brussels sprouts with bacon. It is a very happy plate, indeed. Dessert was a difficult decision - we went with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream (as with the risotto; look for an excuse to choose this) and the panna cotta. Creamy vanilla custard - it will make you kind of miss a sugar topping of sister dessert crème brûlée - but if you love vanilla, you'll love this dessert as well. This is likely the most beautiful restaurant you will ever visit, with the most amazing cocktail menu, food features worthy of the cocktail menu, and a remarkably friendly staff to make your experience a delight. We returned for a late lunch / early dinner on Sunday with different friends after watching a show at "The Loft" and had a light meal with friends, ordering the pork tenderloin, short rib entree, and the pasta Alfredo. No dessert - but we did each indulge in a cocktail pre-meal. Tips: 1. Make a reservation online. 2. Arrive hungry; you are going to want at least 2 courses if not 3-4. 3. My only regret is I am never hungry enough to have both a starter and a salad before my entree. Their salads look beautiful - I will have to replan my next visit to allow for this course as well. 4. If you enjoy desserts - try their dessert menu. These are decadent and easily shared with 1-2 other diners. 5. Do not skip a cocktail. Whether you are an experienced mixologist or not, you are going to appreciate the extensive options with very complex flavor profiles. Some of the cocktails have more than 5 ingredients - and they are delicious.

Evan L.

Yelp
Bartender stared at my girlfriend for the entire meal and made her extremely uncomfortable. Absolutely disgusting. Learn some manners.

Jake M.

Yelp
I have no idea why anyone wouldn't rank this 5/5. The drinks brought me back to my favorite bar I've ever been to, which was in Cusco Peru. The food was phenomenal. It is a great menu that makes me want to come back many times more to explore it. The mixed drinks are the best I've had in the USA. The food here is very genuine high-end Peruvian.

Elizabeth Z.

Yelp
Great spot in Dayton that doesn't feel like Dayton. Love going here for a date night on the fancy side. Drinks are delicious and so is the food. Always fresh and always seasonal. Great location right on the corner of the oregon district. In the summer they have a great outdoor seating area. Don't pass it up!

Kenneth T.

Yelp
If I could rate it a 3.25, I would do it was tough to give Salar a 4.0 and 3.0 was too low Salar was good but there are a lot of buts! The food was very good BUT the prices were very high for what you get. The appetizers were big and the entrees were small. I was disappointed that Salar is considered Peruvian but I didn't see much Peruvian on the menu, there was more Mexican and Spanish than anything. I was surprised I didn't see ANY chicken considering chicken is used a lot and there wasn't any yucca at all. There were sweet potatoes but used as a garnish. Also a bit disappointed that there were no side dishes that you can order. The drinks were good but I wish there were more Peruvian drinks. The service was very good so nothing to complain about there. The bar was rowdy, there were a few people in their 40s who were acting like they were in their 20s. At some point, I saw the 2 bartenders taking shots with the patrons which I'm pretty sure is illegal or at least it is in most states I know of. The restaurant itself is nice and I thought it was classy minus the couple of things I mentioned.

Ll Y.

Yelp
Food poisoning. Good service, everything fine. Ordered Duck fried rice. Duck to rice ration wasn't great. Duck had shredded which isn't ideal. Maybe it had been warmed too long or too many times. Up all night couldn't sleep, coming up my neck, felt like I would have loved to throw up... came out the other end this morning. Totally wore out all day and guts are still sore. What a disappointment and miserable result to what should have been awesome.

Jessica W.

Yelp
We always have such a wonderful experience at Salar. Weather permitting, they have two patios and, on the weekends, space on 5th street for an al fresco dinner. Make sure you have room for dessert!

Chad R.

Yelp
Nestled in the Oregon District, this little gem has amazing food. I tried the seafood empanadas and duck fried rice which were both amazing with a wonderful flavor profile. Wasn't a huge fan of the chicken skewers as the chicken seemed dry and tasted like it had just been seasoned right before it was prepared. All in all, I'd recommend this spot and I'm sure I'll be back for the empanadas. Service was prompt and attentive. Ambience was decent, resto was clean and well kept. Good for date night and birthdays (private rooms) are available

Gwen S.

Yelp
Not worth the hype. So expensive for very simple menu items. The drinks were crafty, but were nothing special and it was hard to get the servers attention

Steve S.

Yelp
Salar is Spanish for 'to salt'. They do. A lot. We decided to stop by here because of the great reviews and the menu looks enticing. The food is delicious, the service is friendly and correct. The atmosphere is modern. We began with complementary pitas and hummus which was great! We also ordered ceviche as an appetizer. Salmon, shrimp, calamari, onions in an intense citrus marinade. Salty but wonderful. I next had the seafood rice. Large green muscles, shrimp, a scallop and calamari with seasoned rice. Salty but just wonderful. My SO had surf & turf. Filet mignon soft, cooked perfect and delicious. Jumbo scallop and shrimp on a skewer with a thick cheesy risotto. Again salty but delicious. I'll certainly be back. I'll ask them next time to hold the salt.

Jonathan B.

Yelp
This visit ate at the bar: super creative drinks, cinnamon infused tequila/cardomom bitters etc this time, ceviche and charred Caesar salad (kudos because they have anchovies).

Hanna H.

Yelp
Not impressed. First time going to Salar. Maybe I made a bad food choice. Got the calamari and it was so bland and bad sauce that came with it was not tasty very gingery. Got the beef empanadas and I didn't know it would have powder sugar on it. Did not like that at all plus it came with no sauce. Would have been great with no powder sugar and some type of dipping sauce. I got the Lomo beef with fries and rice. The beef tips were so hard to chew it made my teeth hurt. I had to stop eating it. The fries were way to salty. The rice was the best thing I ate. I ordered the sangria and it was great. That's why I gave it a 3 star. If I didn't get it I would have given a 1 star. The ambiance was nice and the restaurant looked very clean. The music choice in the restaurant did not fit the atmosphere. The service was good. Spent over a hundred dollars! Way over priced!

Jennifer G.

Yelp
Salar is surely one of my favorite dining experiences in Dayton. Stopped in for an early dinner without reservations and the host was gracious enough to seat my party. I grabbed a photo this time of the signature cocktail the Salar and enjoyed their surf and turf meal which was delicious! The service and staff were fantastic as usual and I look forward to dining in again.

Jesse B.

Yelp
One of the best filets I've ever had! Not to mention the amazing dessert! The servers were really attentive and professional as well

Sara I.

Yelp
My favorite place to eat in Dayton!! Located in the Oregon district, which is cute, this place specializes in Peruvian fusion food and they execute it really well. I've been here a handful of times and it's always been awesome. Tonight I got the Paloma cocktail, which was good, and the calamari, ceviche and empanadas for appetizers, which which also all good (especially the empanadas). I got the short ribs as my entree which had an amazing cherry sauce that took the dish to the next level. Everyone else in my party ordered something else, which they all loved. Only positive things to say! Parking can be found on the street or in one of the nearby lots.

Adam C.

Yelp
Salar is Dayton's answer to Peruvian fine dining. Their offer a full food and liquor menu in an elegant setting in the heart of the Oregon District. We started with the beef empanadas and they were unique and excellent. The beef was flavorful and the shell was sweet and crispy. Our waitress brought us some free fried pita bread with green salsa that was also good. I had the beef saltado - strips of filet with a mountain of fries, tomatoes and jasmine rice. It was an interesting but delicious combination. The portion size was generous and I felt satisfied. We finished with a heavenly chocolate dessert. Service was fast and friendly and our server was eager to give recommendations. My drink, a whiskey smash, was great as well. Overall, Salar is a great spot!

Elah N.

Yelp
Stopped by this restaurant to order takeout and the place is beautiful with a bar setting and dine in options as well. The prices range from mid to high. The service was quick and the staff so friendly. My fiancé loved the Passion Fruit wings and rated it an 8/10 and excellent! When we get a chance we are eager to come and dine in.

Rhonda W.

Yelp
Our first and likely last visit here. I have a literal list of places to try and this was on the list for couple of years. This was a belated birthday meal.. wanted something special. On my actual birthday We both had sinus infections and wanted to wait till we could taste our meal. We shared 2 appetizers and 2 entrees. We both agree none of it was good. The scallop appetizers tasted like it was breaded in salt the beef empanada was the only thing not off puttingly salty. But it was my least favorite empanada .. It was sprinkled with sugar which wasnt a positive. My seafood rice entree was flat out terrible. Very salty. Husband beef dish was also disgustingly salty. Ive had French food ... been to France a few time. Nothing about this meal was French. Maybe the Peruvians have to have alot of salt due to sanitary insufficiency..all i know is this was very disappointing. We will be up drinking water forever. When the server asked if i wanted to take it to go ... i about laughed. Does anyone take the food home? Best part of meal as far as food goes was the complimentary started. Fried flat bread triangles with some dip. We Google the restaurant name and the English translation is SALT. Lol they arent kidding its SALTY. Ohhh have to pay for parking and everything we didnt like was also super expensive. Dont mind pricey is its a special meal but this was not. Lol my husband just pointed out they didnt have salt shakers on the tables for obvious reasons. Cant believe this has 4 stars. The bright side. The place is cute inside. The servers were pleasant and tried to be helpful. The food had nice presentation.

Richard P.

Yelp
Great food and service. Their pork chop is wonderful! We went there for a Birthday Party and were treated great!