My fiancée and I love to try all the restaurants around Salem and we haven't gotten to this one just yet until our recent visit. Host and sever were very friendly, and quick to get us seated and take our orders. In a blink of an eye our food was ready and served! My Howling Wolf Burrito was soooo good! Stuffed so much and got my moneys worth. My fiancé's tacos were pretty good as well, if I remember correctly the deal was buy 2 tacos and the third was discounted. Ambience wasn't bad at all, seemed to be more of a sports bar type place but even if you go earlier in the day like we did it's not bad to grab a quick bite. Would recommend to stop by if you're in the area or craving this type of cuisine! read more

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Waiter that we had was pretty short with us, wasn't that busy at the time. Restaurant was clean. We also got a margarita flight but it tasted pretty watered down and bland. Bland was pretty much the easiest way to describe everything. Meat was unseasoned and rice and beans (when you get good rice and beans you can tell the difference) had no flavor whatsoever. I got food poisoning afterwards too. Probably the worst Mexican food I've had in over a year. Definitely wouldn't return read more

Howling Wolf Taqueria - Howling Wolf Burrito - Mexican Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

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I stopped by Howling Wolf for the first time with a friend on an early Friday evening for dinner. They were busy but we were immediately seated. From the get go, our waiter was impersonal. No smile, no friendliness, no "welcome in" at all. I know that restaurants in Salem are overrun in September and October, and I can see how staff get burnt out. But this was May. It was off-putting but we moved past it. We skipped drinks but got the avocado fries, which were slices of ripe avocado that were breaded and deep fried. They were crunchy on the outside, warm and creamy on the inside, but ultimately had little flavor, which was disappointing. I ordered the grilled steak chimichanga that came with rice, black beans, salsa, and sour cream. The warm melted cheese over the top was tasty. My friend got a selection of three different tacos which he enjoyed. Overall Howling Wolf was good to try, especially while exploring downtown Salem, but I can't say I'm howling to go back. read more

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Overall, this is a very good Mexican spot. The howling wolf burrito was delicious, especially with the sauces that came with it. This is an easy go to choice, really solid. The fried avocado tacos were delicious, excellent vegetarian option. The lengua tacos were disappointing, they need some filling out with more ingredients and a sauce. We greatly appreciated that our order was delivered to the brewery next door, that was incredibly convenient! The combination of the two businesses is excellent! read more

Howling Wolf Taqueria - Lengua taco - Mexican Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

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We needed some fuel after a day exploring and had heard great things about Howling Wolf. We were seated inside immediately in the lovely air conditioning. Our server brought us waters and allowed us time to peruse the menu. I ordered 2 different types of tacos as did my husband. They were all really delicious, thought I think $5+ per taco is a bit steep. Would definitely return to try other options. read more

Seriously good food here!! Everything was delicious especially the carne asada. As a nurse the specialty drink served in "blood bags" hooked me. Really delicious and sweet-sorta like a strawberry daiquiri. This is a must eat here place if you are in Salem! read more

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When driving by noticed nice outside seating and decided to try, Saw pretty good reviews so stopped in for lunch. Service was slow and there didnt seem to be hardly anyone working. Our waiter did try their best and was friendly/apologetic. Our queso was really thick and could've been heated more but the taste was pretty good. Chips were overcooked. No ice with water. Frozen raspberry drink was delicious, the punch not so much. Our chicken burrito took forever and wasnt super hot when it came out. It was just ok, too many black beans and the rice tasted burnt or either not throughly cooked as in crunchy, not much chicken. Something was just a bit off about it but wasn't terrible. It was just decent. Maybe having an off day. read more

I ordered the Al pastor quesadilla and it was just ok. The quesadilla got a bit soggy because of the marinade on the meat. It was a bit bland, that I ordered a guacamole to add some more flavor to it. The employees were friendly but our server wasn't tentative, we had to call them over when we wanted refills on our drinks. The interior has a cool vibe to it the have Mexican heritage decor. read more

Howling Wolf Taqueria - Al Pastor Quesadilla - Mexican Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

This place was great, it was a random pick, when we walked by and it was amazing. The food, drinks and the service were amazing. I got the chicken stew with all the extras and it was so good. The drinks in blood bags creative and delicious. My friend was raving about her food also. The art and the friendly bar vibe was a plus. We missed the trivia night that was starting but that will be for next time. read more

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Would give about a 3.5 star. In Salem from Texas and wanted to see what Mexican food was like up north. The waitress was very amicable. The atmosphere was decorated authentically. The margaritas were strong! The rice was a bit bland, however the chicken wings were flavorful and delicious! The birria meat was juicy albeit slightly salty. Overall like the kids say "we ate but left a few crumbs" read more

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Me and my dad went during lunch and had the good wolf burrito and it was very tasty. If you are not a spicy food fan like my father this burrito is for you! Food came out quick! read more

super good steak burrito. I ate that thing like a starving animal. Good chips and salsa too at table. Whole party had a really good time. Thank you for the good experience! read more

Howling wolf burrito is awesome! I can never bring myself to order anything else. My sister got the steak tip burritos. She liked it alot. Great chips and salsa. If you don't finish you can take home the rest and they even gave us new salsa. I did get the soup to go once and I really enjoyed it. The howling wolf burrito is spicy. But didn't blow my head off spicy. If you don't like spicy it might not be for you. read more

Howling Wolf Taqueria - Howling wolf burrito Howling Wolf Burrito Howling Wolf Burrito - Mexican Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

Totally did not expect to find some good tex mex food in the middle of Witch City, but yes, it exists! The chips and salsa was not what we're used to (chips we a bit stale, salsa was very liquified like a hot sauce) but the Howling Wolf Burrito and Al Pastor Quesadilla (i added Guac) were both delicious, not overly salty and not over-sauced. My partner requested "light on the beans" for the burrito and the kitchen came through. Not only that, it was evenly distributed throughout the burrito. It makes a difference and we were happy with both of our meals through and through. My moscow mule was on the flat/sweet side so I wouldn't recommend it. There are lots of cocktail and drink options with some fun specials. Good find for us! read more

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We were on the fence on where to eat in town but this for sure was the best choice we could have made! First of all the service was so good! The guy who sat us was so friendly and attentive. He even wiped my menu for me when I spilled salsa on it. Loved him to death and hope he gets the best things in life. When it came down to the food, I literally could not stop. It was so good! I recommend the chimichanga!! The house salsa was also very impressive and we all killed that and the chips in like five seconds. I would definitely come back here. Not only was it delicious, but they have the nicest people in town working for them. read more

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Nothing more annoying than a review that starts with "I'm from Texas/California and I know Mexican food" blah blah blah shut your trap. No one cares. But guess what? I'm from LA and also spent most of my life in NYC and I know what good Mexican food tastes like.... And guess what?! Howling Wolf might be the best Mexican food on the east coast. Sure, it's a little pricey ($19 for a burrito?! Really?) but I didn't eat in the restaurant so I can't speak to the level of service or detail that comes with that price. I did take out. I f***g hate take out but we were passing through Salem and it was cold and the gf didn't want to eat out. This is really amazing Mexican food. I got the steak tip burrito. 9.5 out of 10. Gf got quesadilla (with carne asada) and I noticed another diner said it was soggy. I disagree. But JUST order the steak tips. Next level. Absolutely loved it. Salsa - very acidic but delish. They also gave us enough for two meals. Guac, solid. Needed salt - but that's not a crime. Only criticism- no one greeted me when I came in. I worked in the food biz and I believe staff should acknowledge you exist within seconds if they aren't greeting/seating you. I waited for a bit and finally someone figured it out. But ya know what - who cares about that when the burrito is this good - best $19 ever spent. Howling wolf - congrats. You've done the impossible. You made good Mexican food in the North Shore and converted a food snob into a believer. Wolf people, I love you. I will howl at the moon and sing your praises forever. Keep doing gods work. read more

On a short walk from the ferry, close to the fire station, this mexican restaurant serves nice food and fun drinks. My fave, of course in a nice Salem feel, is the i.v. bag drink. It is a funny way to serve and enjoy the drink. Too bad they only have alcoholic version of it. read more

Howling Wolf Taqueria - Mexican Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

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Bathrooms available and some parking-scarce during October time period. About 7-10 min walk -depending on how many people- to the train station. We got the IV drinks- they are off menu. I saw them on social media. Be aware that they are 20$ each. We did not realize that until the bill came. They were tasty-like cherry limeade flavor. These are alcoholic but very light on the alcohol (especially for a 20$ drink) We shared the fajitas with the three of us, and it worked out nicely. Our waiter was skeptical of it being enough food but we each had like 3-4 tacos. Not bad at all. Also shared some guacamole. Nice chunky guac. So that was good. Cool vibe- has a nice patio outside. But it's across from the fire station so we sat inside because the sirens kept going off. It was good-nothing mind blowing. Service was normal paced for a busy restaurant. IV drinks were cool. Not worth 20$ but it was cool. read more

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This spot is amazing. Especially for drinks. We sat at the bar on a very busy weekend and the bartender was slammed, despite this he served us in speedy manner and took our order right away. There were so many people ordering drinks and somehow he made everyone's drink right away without a mistake. The margaritas are very good, not too sweet, and not too strong, just right. Additionally, the howling wolf burrito tasted very good. The meat inside is not carne asada though so don't be mistaken like me. Im pretty sure it was carnitas. Still good though. Topped with 3 different salsas and big enough to make a grown man full. Enjoy ! read more

Howling Wolf Taqueria - Blood bag vodka - Mexican Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

The service and restaurant atmosphere was great but the food quality really fell short of my expectations. I ordered 3 tacos, all of which were extremely dry and not super flavorful. I was pretty disappointed that the meat was not juicy, overall a mediocre taco. read more

Howling Wolf Taqueria - Al Pastor Tacos, Carne Asada Tacos - Mexican Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

There was a wait, but then again, it's Salem in October. We gave our cell phone number and the estimated 45 minutes was only 30 minutes. We had a table outside and enjoyed "people watching" as everyone was dressed for Halloween! The food was delicious! Highly recommend the wings, chicken fajitas, taco salad and enchiladas. No leftovers! So I would say we loved it! read more

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This place is SO GOOD! You get a ton of food- well worth the price and it tastes great. It's nice and warm inside compared to the miserable cold outside. The staff is super friendly and accommodating! Try the margarita flight, tastes delicious! We went as a group of 6 and everything came out very quickly and super hot. Of all the places we ate while visiting Salem this was the best! read more

A god affordable option for dinner in Salem. Fish tacos are great, carnitas were good but pretty hot. Free chips and salsa.

Service was a 10/10, the bartender was wonderful. It was also very reasonably priced. The low review is for the food, I definitely wish I would've gone somewhere else. Fried avocado taco was very underwhelming, and the shrimp taco looked unappetizing and didn't taste very good... it was just a couple whole, bland shrimp on a corn tortilla, with a quarter of an avocado on top. read more

Best casual food in Salem. Food always hits. Service is great. They've been a staple here in Salem for a reason.

Terrible. Food is like a pizza place tried to make Mexican food. Bland, no flavor, empty on a Saturday night

Horrible customer service. I walked up to pick up my orders the girl that working at the register just sit there reading her book. I don't want to interrupt I just stand there waiting for her. After a few minutes past with no response I decided to tell her that I'm here to pick up my orders. She gave me a side eyes and slammed her book on the table and put my food hard on the table. She should quit if she doesn't like the job. I'd never go back there again. read more

The french fry nachos here were perfect. Literally one of the best things i have ever eaten. The burrito we got (howling wolf burrito) had a lot of flavors but i wish the inside was a little hotter. Our waitress was very nice! Only complaint was the bathroom. read more

Howling Wolf Taqueria - French Fry Nachos - 5/5 - Mexican Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

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I'm from Texas so consider myself a pretty good judge of Mexican food - and Howling Wolf is delicious! Great queso, great salsa, great entrees (quesadillas, enchiladas, tacos, burritos). I went for brunch today, and the breakfast tacos were SO GOOD. The service is awesome - everyone who works there is friendly. I also like the vibe - casual and fun, with a patio in the summertime. Highly recommend! read more

Howling Wolf Taqueria - Breakfast tacos - Mexican Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

This was some gooooood Mexican food. I had the Chile Verde chimichanga ( pork stewed in green chile & tomatillo sauce) topped with chili con queso and served with beans and rice It was really yummy!!! The queso was insanely, bowl licking good. The pork was so tender. Everything was so flavorful. They served cups and salsa while you wait. (Yummy as well. ) The restaurant was cute and clean. The service was good! Loved their outside seating area. read more

Howling Wolf Taqueria - Mexican Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

I like that you can order the burritos over lettuce for a lighter meal. I felt I was lacking some steak. Meal was fine but nothing special. I believe chips are corn tortillas not flour, salsa ok read more

Howling Wolf Taqueria - Steak burrito over greens Chicken burrito over greens Beef taco - Mexican Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

Full transparency: We had 1 appetizer and 2 mixed drinks, 1 beer and 2 fountain sodas and 5 entrees and it costed: $130 The service was abysmal. No real customer service. The ambiance was inviting but I highly suggest they clean their air duct because we were seated under it and all I kept thinking was damn I hope it's not blowing all that down onto our plates! Out of all that food, ONLY the steak tip burrito was good! So delicious. We used the jalepeno ranch from the avocado tacos on the burrito Because it did need like a sauce with it. The avocado tacos were ordered as an appetizer and they severly lacked salt. The carnitas chimichanga was underwhelming. The Al pastor and carne asada tacos were very fatty and dry. The green chile chicken stew was all right, but only because if you get it, definitely get the add on avocado and rice and cheese for an extra $3, they made the flavor. If not it would've just been broth. Our mixed drinks were extremely sour. I could not finish mine at all. read more

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We went twice in a span of four days! The food selection was vast and delicious! The marinated steak tips with pinto beans was recommended by our server Chris. Very friendly and knowledgeable as he mentioned he had been working there over a decade. Very clean and the music selection was excellent! read more

Howling Wolf Taqueria - Mexican Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

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I have been to this restaurant and ordered take out from them serveral times and most have been good experience. I got take out last night through toast-since the app doesn't let u order extra of their amazing jalapeno ranch i called howling wolf directly and the woman that answered assured me she would add 2 extra to my order. The order arrived and u guessed it-no extra dressing. Fine i could deal with that, but what I couldn't deal with was my chicken pastore burrito-it was nothing but a piece of cut up fat! there was not one piece of edible chicken! I will not be ordering from them again any time soon! read more

Came here on a Friday night to find it almost entirely full. Since it was Cinco de Mayo they even had a live DJ playing out front. We were lucky to have grabbed one of their last tables by the friendly hostess. For drinks we tried their Paloma and mango margarita. Both were decent but the mango was better in my opinion. For food we got the howling wolf burrito with pico de gallo and the full combo fajita. The burrito ingredients were spread well with lots of bacon pieces throughout. I preferred the steak and chicken over the shrimp since they were seasoned and cooked better but in general it was still satisfying especially with the caramelized onions and peppers underneath. I appreciated the bed of rice with sour cream, cheese, pico de gallo, and lettuce. It all made for some fun mini burritos. Overall we had a good experience. The portions were huge and food was tasty. Service was a little slow at times but he was nice when he was able to come around. Would come again for a fun casual vibe. read more

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Actually went for a trivia night, which was fun. But then, it's the only trivia night I've ever been to. We got drinks and apps and they were good. drinks were very good, apps were classically good. The place is a good size, and on this night things were quite loud. That's because of the trivia event I am thinking. Wait staff and trivia people were all very enthusiastic. I'd go back, and I would try their meals definitely. Looked like great portion sizes, and people seemed please. read more

Great food! So delicious lol really cool drinks too! Only downside is the bathroom but other than that it's a great place to stop by and eat at! Very much recommended. read more

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I had lunch with my sister here this week and I loved it. Our waiter, Chris, was upbeat and attentive. He served us chips and salsa (delicious!) and waters promptly. My sister wasn't very hungry so she got a side order of rice and refried beans, which she devoured lol. I got the chicken quesadilla with guacamole and I LOVED it. Our bill came out to $20 - the menu is priced very fairly and affordably. You can tell the ingredients are fresh, and Chris let us know we were receiving a freshly made batch of guac :) The ambiance is lovely and they have a fun bar area, so I'll have to come back during the evening sometime. 10/10 would recommend and I will be returning! read more

Howling Wolf Taqueria - Side of Rice & Beans - Mexican Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

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After an interesting day traipsing through Essex Street in Salem, Massachusetts, we went to grab a bite at this family friendly restaurant nearby. It's next to a busy intersection so if you sit outside (and they have plenty of outdoor seating ) the noise may bother you. There is plenty of seating inside. Alex, our hostess & server, told us that the weekends here are crazy though... so you have been warned. There's an open bar facing the dining room and Mexican inspired decor. There are 2 all gender roomy restrooms that we found clean. We arrived on a Tuesday afternoon around 2 PM. It wasn't very busy and there were plenty of tables open. Alex actually thought it was strange because they most always receive the tourists flowing out from Essex Street M-F. Everything on the menu is Mexican inspired. Everything sounded great just reading the descriptions aloud. Alex explained that the Burritos are VERY LARGE and quite daunting. Not up for a challenge, we went for the sampler with the intention to order additional food if we were still hungry. Thumbs up to Fried Avocado Fries, Bacon Wrapped Jalapeños (for my partner anyway... It was way too spicy for me). We have very different perspectives on what is spicy. This was our first time having avocado fries and they are awesome. In fact, we ordered another side of them because we enjoyed them so much. We tried them blue cheese, but there is different sauces available. Meh on the chicken taquitos and the chicken wings basted in a sweet sauce. We were given their House hot sauce when we asked for a buffalo type marinade. It turned out to be a great addition and saving grace to the wings. All in all with thought this place was good value for the money spent. Plus, we really appreciated Alex taking the time to tell us which were her favorites and why when we asked. Next time we're in town we will try that daunting burrito and definitely order the avocado fries again! read more

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Great salsa and chips Excellent burritos Fast service with a good selection of drinks including proper Mexican Coca Cola A star off for very dirty water glasses we asked to be replaced and never were. read more