Nestled in a strip plaza on University just east of Rural Road is Salut Kitchen Bar, a place that after you’ve visited once, it may very well become your favorite haunt. They’ve just celebrated their 2nd anniversary so why not stop in, celebrate with them and wish them many more years. While not far from the hustle and bustle of ASU they rarely get the college crowd but they have a following that keeps things hopping. The dog-friendly patio, cordial staff and friendly atmosphere has made Salut Kitchen Bar a special spot. Their charming usage of pallets for walls, recycled wine and liquor bottles used for water and drink glasses, old piping that functions in their bar hook-up suggest it’s time to relax; a very easy thing to do when you walk through the door.
Their cuisine is a savory medley of American and Mediterranean spices, textures and healthy tastes to be enjoyed with their wide selection of wines and craft cocktails. From shared plates and tapas, bruschetta, salad, sandwiches, burgers to entrees there is something to please every palate. Plus, there is brunch every Saturday and Sunday. In looking at that menu, I’ll have to schedule a brunch very soon!
The Bites
Probably their most ordered starter is the Hummus Nachos with hummus, red onion, pomegranate seed, balsamic reduction and feta artfully placed on pita chips. The pita chip base is a brilliant idea as there is crunch with ever bite (you know nachos can “wilt” rather quickly). Wilting will not be an issue as these won’t be on the plate long enough! An interesting twist is the Quinoa Fritters: quinoa, dill Havarti, red onion, red pepper emulsion with fried cremini on top. These bite-size bundles are quite flavorful with a tiny kick at the end. You can’t go wrong with the Mediterranean Chicken Kebobs which come with homemade hummus, tzatziki and grilled pitas. The spices on the chicken are lovely and oh my, the tzatziki with it’s vibrant burst of mint! I can’t say enough about it but it’s the best tzatziki that I’ve had. But wait! The finale should be their S’mores. A small fire pot is brought to the table with marshmallows, graham crackers and chocolate for you to prepare. So whatever way you like S’mores – lightly toasted marshmallows or those burned to a crisp with the warm gooey middle hidden until mashed between two grahams with chocolate. How does something so simple become so decadent? I did ask co-owner David Freedman how the s’mores got onto the menu. He noted, “They are fun and unique. Everyone remembers making s’mores”. I couldn’t agree more.
The Booze
Salut has an extensive wine selection and craft cocktails. Talk about innovative craft cocktails! Go for aLavender Lemon Fizz with Bombay Sapphire gin, lemon juice, lavender syrup and dry lemon soda. A very refreshing drink that is not overly sweet nor is the lavender overpowering. The Oh Honey falls in their Mule category with it’s combination of Spring 44 honey vodka, muddled cucumbers, strawberries, ginger beer and lime juice served in a copper mug. There is a tartness that is quickly cooled by the cucumbers. It pairs very nicely with their food choices. One thing that is going to get me back there are the all absinthe cocktails as they sounded delicious and oh so, dangerous.
The Bucks
The prices vary but everything is quite reasonable. Shared plates and tapas range from $7 – $9.50 with two sampler plates that are $18 – $19 for several people. Salads range from $11 – $13 with sandwiches and burgers ranging from $9 – $13. No entrée is over $19.50. They have happy hour daily and reverse happy Sunday – Thursday.
They are located at 1435 E. University D., Ste. 12, Tempe AZ 85281. Phone: 480.625.1600. Call for reservations or visit them online.
*This meal was provided to us complimentary as a part of a media invitation. However, this has no effect on our opinions and comments regarding our experience. View ourDisclosure Policyfor further explanation.
