Decided to have lunch here on my birthday. We waited approximately 10 minutes before we were seated. They offered us the bar area and we accepted since the staff had some confusion about sections not being available. (It was just two of us and we sat at the bar). Elijah the bartender is very friendly. The menu has two sides and it takes a while to read the whole thing. Ended up with a cheddar cheese burger and fries. It was very good . Elijah gave us excellent service . [[HIGHLIGHT]]The place wasn't crowded but they get busy around 1pm.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]There is not a lot of noise , you can carry on a conversation without problems[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. Will definitely go back ! I believe staffing maybe an issue . read more

Macado's - Cheddar cheese burger - Sandwiches Near Me - Salem, Virginia

Since its founding in Roanoke in 1978, by Richard Macher, [[HIGHLIGHT]]Macado's has strived to provide a comfortable, familiar setting where locals, college students, and families feel at home.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Macado's slogan "Just to be there" is meant to highlight Macado's welcoming, highly social atmosphere; suggesting that this restaurant is more than just a place to have a meal.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's a local hangout place where people come to relax, socialize, and be part of the community.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Macado's Salem was established in 1990 by the Macher family to bring Macado's signature blend of hearty sandwiches and eclectic decor to the heart of the City of Salem.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] After having been selected as number 4 of Yelp's Top 50 most prolific Elites of 2025, a year when I was also awarded the Yelp Triad Squad Photographer of the Year Award at their Yelpies 2025 Award Ceremony, an event that honored the highest-performing Yelp Elites, and where last year I was awarded the Yelp Triad Squad Yelper of the Year Award, I decided that this year, as an All-Star Yelp Elite, I not only wanted to be the first to discover new restaurants and businesses, and bring them to the attention of the public, but also to uncover those found in hidden paths that for one reason or another have not reached the public in its totality. And this Macado's in Salem, Virginia is a perfect example. Today I visited this restaurant for the first time to experience first hand this beloved hangout place and see for myself if it's living up to its reputation and if it's really worth the trip. [[HIGHLIGHT]]I invite you to besides reading my review, view my photographs accompanying this review to get a better sense of the place, its one-of-a-kind ambiance, and high-quality food and drinks, not to mention its extraordinary customer service.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] From the time I arrived in my pearl white Lexus and took my first photograph of the front of the building which originally was the site of the Malibu restaurant (receiving a total face-lift from the Macher family after purchasing it) and checked-in with my Yelp app with that photo, I started receiving likes from all my Yelp friends, and felt mesmerized about the place and eager to finally walk in. Inside a friendly young lady greeted me and took me to my table. After a warm welcome she took my drink order for an Iced Dr Pepper and went to get it while I studied the extensive menu of which I enjoyed looking at the caricature of this gigantic tall hamburger. When my server nicknamed Bean arrived with my drink, I ordered the Wild Bill Burger. It was described in the menu as having cheddar cheese, smokehouse bacon, BBQ sauce, lettuce, tomato, and topped with beer battered onion rings. All sounded so delicious that set my high expectations for the burger which I chose to be accompanied by their fries which I had yet to taste. My server mentioned that this was a great choice and went to put in the order. When it came out, the burger looked gigantic and marvelous, and tasted amazingly delicious. And the fries light and crunchy. One of the best fries that I've ever had. I asked my server to give my compliments to the cook for such amazing food cooked and displayed to perfection. While I was earing my very kind and efficient server came by to check on me and see if I needed a refill on my drink. For dessert I had an Original New York Cheesecake and a Single Scoop of Vanila Ice Cream. It too was amazing. I made sure to ask for and pay for the bill before it was time to change shifts to make sure my server got her tip. [[HIGHLIGHT]]In conclusion, I highly recommend this cozy and friendly establishment not only to have a lovely meal but also to spend some quality time with family and friends.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] It far exceeded my highest of expectations. And I'm looking forward to returning ... Just To Be There. read more

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So the bartender was super nice. However, I stopped here because it used to be awesome. The crossiant was dry and nasty, could barely choke down half. The coleslaw came out like it was a store bought container tasted like it was two weeks old. Considering I'd driven 2 hours and choose this place. It won't happen again. Then since I'd driven 2 hours used the restroom. Check out the photos NASTY! read more

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I enjoyed it. The menu is massive! We tried the nachos, a sandwich and a quesadilla and enjoyed everything. The service was very fast, our waiter was kind and really went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed. They have Dr.Pepper zero which was super exciting for me. [[HIGHLIGHT]]It was a clean and well decorated establishment, the vibe was good.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Would eat again. Unfortunately for my pics, my phone did not eat first read more

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[[HIGHLIGHT]]It's a pretty chill place in there.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I would usually go to the bar area and study there while I enjoy some delicious BBQ traditional wings. THEY HAVE A LOT OF OPTIONS ON THEIR MENU BTW!! read more

Ate here a couple times. Cool local eatery thats been around a while and a part of the community. This place is known for its huge menu and sandwiches. Was having lunch with some work associates recently and our server, who I have had before took care of us and she's great. Comes with a bag of chips ans pickle spear. 3 Stars it served its purpose but cannot eat it too often, not the healthiest of menus 01002 read more

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This is a fabulous, as in 5-Star, dining and customer experience for what and where it is. The sports bar like ambiance is colorful and replete with nostalgic memorabilia sure to invoke a conversation or two among visitors. The menu is extensive and offers a variety of choices to address the dietary interests of many. Take a look at the photos. The salad was absolutely fresh, a rarity these days, and the quesadillas stuffed and coomed to perfection. Frankly, our expectations of this place were muted prior to our visit. The outcome was a pleasant surprise. Parking is the only challenge at this place. Roanoke College is next-door. Between students parking in open areas during the year and the construction going on in downtown Salem, it may be difficult to get a spot. But if you can get a spot you'll find this place is worth a visit. Service was excellent during our visit. Go and enjoy. read more

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I attended this establishment at round 7pm - 9pm. I ordered I quarter pound glizzy and thoroughly enjoyed it. It was the perfect amount of meet and the fires were delectable. I recommend it with mustard, chilly, and onions. Also our server Annie was very polite, social, and had great service. read more

Basic bar food. Service is weak To many places to choose from. We went to restaurants selected by local contacts. read more

Macado's - Sandwiches Near Me - Salem, Virginia

Placed a order over the phone surprisingly my order was made correct but the chicken for my order wasn't done I traveled there to pick up my order to take it home and take a bite of unfinished cooked chicken . I called them to politely complain about the situation they offer the remake the order an I explain what was on my sandwich I come all the way back for the sandwich to be remade but not made correctly now I'm yet 1hr 20 mins in after callin and yet to still receive my correct order read more

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When I visit Roanoke this is one of the first restaurants I visit the service and the sandwiches are always great. My favorite is the Brooklyn Bridge yummy. Barry Leslie Las Cruces NM read more

Was good but I would like to try another option. We have a few locations which is convenient

Let me start with we are usually regulars. Every Friday. It has gotten so bad, we are finding a new spot. There is clearly no one with experience expediting. Consistently my husband's meal is brought out while I sit and watch him eat. Half an hour after he is done, mine comes out. Three weeks in a row it has been this way. Last night, we asked for a to-go order to be brought at the end of our meal. My husband received his dinner, along with the to-go order. No dinner for me. MUCH later, I received my SIDE--a cup of fruit--still no dinner. I had to ask that when it finally was brought out it be put in a box to take home. We are done. They need more employees or more training. Either way, we won't be back. read more

Macado's - a plastic container with fruit in it - Sandwiches Near Me - Salem, Virginia

Terrible takeout service. Gave them another chance....not my best dec clearly. At this point...the Salem Macado's should either change management, owners or just close their doors. So thankful for more restaurants coming to Salem. read more

I love Macado's, but this location in particular never seems to make the cut. Over the course of the past year the service has been lousy & unacceptable. My kid ordered a simple plain grilled cheese and they screwed it up. I guess it's partially on us for not checking, but shouldn't we expect the same results as other locations? read more

Constantly good. So many sandwiches to pick from. Great lunch spot. And this location does have out side seating with a covered and heated patio. That also have a fire place out side. Service is always friendly. And as all of the other locations I have been to. They are in historic type building and have a common theme. Lots to find on the walls. Next time you stop by. Don't get lost at all of the items. read more

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My family used to be a really big fan but I think we've given up on this location. Drinks arriving after food, parts of meal cold. Originally thought maybe an off night but unfortunately issues with food and service this has been case last few visits. read more

Went with some work people for lunch during a break at a local meeting. We got there about 1130 and the place was pretty empty. There is street parking and a small lot around back. There is also covered outdoor seating with a gas fireplace which is probably very nice in the winter. They also have a fair amount of tvs on inside of the place. Our waitress was very nice and the three of us all had sandwiches. The sandwiches at this location are BIG. I have eaten at a Macados in Lexington and Roanoke and this place beats them all with sandwich size. The service was a little slow considering it was empty but the sandwiches made up for the wait! read more

Macado's - Inside area - Sandwiches Near Me - Salem, Virginia

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It was a slow time to eat, 8:45 pm. There were not many people being served. Greeted by a woman that looked disgusted to see us because she now had to find a table for another customer. After a five minute wait she brought us to an empty section and pointed to the table and said "here". Five minutes later our server arrived very friendly and asked if we wanted to order drinks. I asked if they serve local craft beer. She handed me a written list of beers and said "this is what we have". She then left and returned five minutes later... you can get the theme....burger was Luke warm while the fries were cold. I would hate to see this place with a busy slate of customers. read more

Last night we had friends in from out of town, so we went to the Salem location.It was horrible experience. Our table was sticky, the floor looked dirty, and it was so hot. And that's just to start. Our server was nice and she couldn't help the problems. When our food came one person's chips were stale, one sandwich was so hard he couldn't hardly eat it, my sister's quesadilla was burnt. I ordered nachos and they had a can of olives on top. When I got a refill on my tea it was hot to go along with the temperature in the restaurant. I don't know if you have a new cook, but the food was not good. We mentioned to our server it was hot and the table was sticky. She said the table had been cleaned. My phone would stick to the table. I felt like I needed to take a shower when I got home. I was not expecting such a bad experience. I go to the Vinton location and I have never had any problems. read more

Incredible Inexpensive Food! The staff is incredible and the decorations are really cool! Great place to go!

strike 2 and I'll pass. first time I ate there - about 6 weeks ago and food was good. Service was horrible. No one knew what they were doing at the entrance or where to seat anyone. Finally I was seated. and waired, waited and waited. After 20 minutes the server came up - sorry -I was in the bathroom. Not what I want to hear. Food came out and was good. Waited and waited for server. Finally someone walked by and I asked for silverware. She brought 2 knives, 1 iced tea spoon and a soup spoon.... Loose, so she had to select this assortment. I needed a fork. To eat my burger without bun... I've heard great things about Macado's - my boss rants and raves about the one in Vinton. Fast forward to tonight and thought I'd try again. Walked in and dude at the counter said how many - said 1. He says I don't know what's available. Walks away and comes by a few minutes later hands full of dirty glasses and flatware. Waited and waited never saw him again. Girl cones up with hands full of togo orders. She asks how many, said 1, she says don't know who was sat last. Walks to the kitchen and zip! Didn't come back. The dingleberry who brought my flatware walked up and said where's this. Couldn't understand her and not sure who she was asking. I gave up and left. Walked down to Awful Arthur's and had a fantastic meal. Sorry Macado's Salem. Not trying again... read more

I have been coming to Macado's locations in the area since I was a kid. And admittedly, this location isn't my favorite but it's still good. The server was fantastic, very attentive, never let our drinks get empty, and was very kind. I enjoy many of their sandwiches (Stogie, Ragtime, Brooklyn Bridge, Carpet Bagger) and their house chips. I think of this as like an American Pub kinda deal. For some reason, this location seems to be rather loud at times and often temperature challenged (hot in summer, cold in winter). Parking on main street can sometimes be a challenge as well. read more

Took too long to seat us, too long to take drink orders, too long to take food order, too long to bring food, and too long to bring the bill. They didn't look over crowded but in today's restaurant business most businesses are usually short of help and cooks. Maybe that was the cause. We are in town visiting family and we will not return. read more

The food is fantastic, one of the best sandwiches I've ever had not even kidding. Must try place

Don't waste your time. If they seat you, they forget you. Spent 30 mins waiting on a waitress in a half full restaurant. When we inquired, we were told she was "really busy" and would be at least ten mins before she would be able to take our order. Mean while she waited on two other tables. We left, never to return. read more

They have the best burgers in town by far! Service is a little slow though.. They also have carry out so you can easily get delicious local food even during this time! read more

Macado's - Burger, fries, and ginger ale. - Sandwiches Near Me - Salem, Virginia

Saturday night = 2 waiters for entire restaurant. Apparently only 1 cook? We should have never been seated. We should have been told there was a wait. Waited over an hour for TWO SANDWICHES. And they came out cold. read more

Placed pickup order because I was in a rush and it said it would be ready in 7-10 minutes. I got there when I got a message that my order was ready. The order was not ready. The gentleman working the register was definitely busy, but he spoke so softly that I could not hear him over the background noise (sure, I'm not so young any more). All I understood was it was not ready. I waited for 15 more minutes I did not have. I was standing near the counter, trying not to be rude, but I was getting anxious to go. The gentleman was replaced by a young woman. She asked what was up, I said that I got a message my food was ready 15 minutes ago and I really had to go. She checked and told me my food was not ready. I politely asked if I could be refunded because I had to go. She said no. I asked if I could have whatever of it was ready and forget the rest, and she said "none of it is ready". So I left, as I had to. Without food or a refund and with the lack of understanding how people can be so rude and unhelpful these days. read more

Brooke was fantastic! We came in with a large group on a Sunday around lunchtime when the restaurant was clearly slammed and she was so professional, kind, enthusiastic, and efficient. She brought us drinks to go and to go boxes without anybody having to ask and she was very accommodating to any dietary restrictions and modifications we had. The food was delicious and the wing promo was great. We will definitely be back. read more

Great food and delicious drinks at a very good price. It can be a hit or miss with the service here, but one of their servers, Kirk, is excellent! So friendly and helpful. Really enjoyed our meal with him as our server and the food was delicious! read more

If you want to sit, and sit, and sit some more, without ever getting greeted, water, or having your order taken - THIS IS THE PLACE! If you want to call in an order, and have it missing chips and pickles - THIS IS THE PLACE! If you want a chocolate shake, and get chocolate milk - THIS IS THE PLACE! read more

Supporting local restaurants! Called in an order to Macado's last night to take to my mom to celebrate her 76 B-Day. The customer service was great! The man taking orders was professional and when we arrived our food was hot and ready. The new Bang-Bang shrimp appetizer is AMAZING! Try it! You will not be disappointed! read more

Very good food. Super friendly staff. We were just passing through. Glad to see some nice hospitality. Prices were very reasonable cha all next time. read more

My boyfriend and I rarely come to Macados because we've had pretty slow service in the past but we decided to give it another go. We were pleasantly surprised by both the food and the service! I ordered the chicken oriental salad and asked for an extra serving of chicken and they loaded it up! I usually order extra chicken whenever I order a salad because a lot of restaurants skimp the meat but this one was great! Very filling and fresh. My boyfriend got the chicken and broccoli alfredo and it came out hot and cheesy. We split a basket of fries which were decent. Just generic crinkle cut that needed some salt. Will definitely be going back whenever I'm craving a big salad! read more

Macado's - Chicken oriental salad with extra chicken - Sandwiches Near Me - Salem, Virginia

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This restaurant makes the very best sandwiches in all of Salem VA. That's why they have been in business for so long. Very high quality and super-fresh ingredients. Macado's also has (usually) fast and (always) professional service. Certain times of the day (lunch hour) or (dinner hour) they are jammed with customers so the service slows down, but the food is still the best! We dine in often, we go in "off-hours" and get great service - or we call in orders. The prices are very reasonable too. NOTICE: at peak hours or on certain "game days" this place can get pretty loud and service slows down even with 6-8 servers hustling about. After Roanoke College lets out for the summer, it is easier to get seated and much more served quickly. Did I mention awesome food? We always tip generously!!! read more

HORRIBLE!!!! We waited 2.5 hours for our food. An hour in they informed us they didn't have the stuff to make my sons milkshake so we had to change that. Another hour later they informed us they didn't have the stuff for the Irish nachos and would we like to change the chips for another type of chips. I asked if they could use potato skins instead. Still another 30 minutes passed and they finally brought my sons substitute drink along with regular potato skins... that I did not order... followed FINALY by our food. They forgot my daughters applesauce and had to remind him twice to finally bring it. My appetite was ruined at this point so I asked for to go boxes. I had to remind him 3 times. Meanwhile during this 3 hour experience we never once got a drink refill or the straws I asked for 20 times! When we got our check they still charged us for the potato skins that we did not want nor did we touch at all. They acted like they didn't want to take it off our bill but finally did. It was also crazy hot inside and the staff was not accommodating at all to our family of 6 with small children. We will NEVER come back. This was by far the worst restaurant experience I have ever had!! Such a shame as I had heard such good things about Macaodos from friends. **Edited to add... AND! I just looked at my receipt again and see that the military discount (10%) only deducted $1 when it should of been $4.53... read more

Macado's - Sandwiches Near Me - Salem, Virginia

We are regular and loyal customers at Macados. Staff are effective and friendly; food is reliably good and plentiful, and costs are reasonable. It's a pub/sports bar with outside year-round seating! read more

This restaurant was recommended by my hotel, so I stopped by for dinner on Friday night. I was seated very quickly, as the place was only partially full. I waited a full 20 minutes to be waited on, but no one came to me to take my order. So I pulled a waitress aside and asked what was up. She said my waitress hadn't shown up for work yet. I asked if someone else could take my order, and she said sure. I waited another five minutes and then got up and left. Awful experience. If you have oodles and oodles of time, you might actually get served. Unfortunately, I can't comment on the food because I wasn't served any. read more

We went on a Tuesday night in the summer so there were many empty tables. We waited 10-15 minutes for someone to emerge from the back just to be seated. After we finally placed a simple order - 2 sandwiches and 1 kids meal, we sat waiting for 45 minutes. Eventually the waitress came over and told us one of the cooks was "being terrible" and not helping the others so our order was delayed. Ok strange. When I got my sandwich there was a dead bug very visible on the side. Ugh!!! Thankfully the two OK meals were comped and I didn't order anything else, but we won't be back. read more