In recent years, Salem’s dining landscape has welcomed an array of new concepts and flavors. Yet none have set out with ambitions quite like ADOBE, the newest culinary offering making waves downtown. Owned by Diego and Itzel Sagastume, ADOBE is more than a restaurant—it is an homage to tradition, culture, and community, expressed through a thoughtfully designed menu created by Diego and brought to life by Chef Juan Morales.
Explaining the meaningful inspiration behind the restaurant’s name, co-owner Itzel said, “Adobe is a material used in Latino countries to construct homes. Despite its simple creation, adobe is resilient to environmental exposure and weather; its strength provides security and comfort. Adobe is the perfect name for this project because of its uniqueness, strong foundation, and its commonality to all of Latin America.”
ADOBE isn’t aiming to replicate familiar concepts, Itzel emphasized, but rather introduce Salem diners to fresh, bold tastes they might not have encountered before. “The motivation behind Adobe was to give the community something new, something I don’t think Salem has ever seen,” she added.
The restaurant’s atmosphere is intentionally upscale yet approachable. The carefully curated interior complements the menu’s thoughtful construction, providing diners an experience described by Itzel as “upscale, organic, and unique.” She emphasized thoughtful design: “I wanted the space to feel connected, with an experience that flows naturally throughout.”
Guests at ADOBE can expect a menu that rotates seasonally, highlighting local ingredients and fresh produce. Itzel recommended the Tostadas de Ceviche paired with their Lavender Pisco Sour—a combination she described as “light, fresh, and delicious, full of Latin flavors without feeling overpowering.”
Behind each dish is a personal connection, particularly evident in items like the Taquitos de Frijol. Itzel fondly recalled the dish’s roots in her childhood memories: “My grandmother used to wake up early to pack lunch for my grandpa. His lunchbox never lacked these bean tacos. Every morning, hearing my grandma prepare them was a cherished routine.” Now, this beloved family recipe finds a home on ADOBE’s appetizer menu—with a contemporary twist honoring her family’s legacy.
Creativity extends to the beverage offerings as well. Itzel highlighted uniquely crafted cocktails like the Paloma Ahumada, featuring a dry chili pod base, or the Tepache, crafted from fermented pineapple and spices, combining traditional flavors with contemporary flair.
Jackie Roché, Membership Manager at Salem Area Chamber of Commerce, praised ADOBE’s thoughtful beverage selections, noting, “I am so grateful they are mindful to all patrons, offering an upscale alternative to alcoholic beverages: their mocktail menu.”
In every bite and sip, ADOBE blends tradition with innovation, offering Salem a dining experience deeply rooted in authenticity and meaningful stories. With Diego’s culinary vision guiding the menu, supported by Chef Juan Morales’ innovative execution, Diego and Itzel promise continued creativity, seasonal surprises, and a flavorful future for this exciting addition to downtown Salem.
