Swenbeck's Park Cafe

Swenbeck’s Park Cafe is a family restaurant that used to locate in 165 Fort Ave, Salem , MA 01970; 5 minutes from Salem Common. Swenbeck’s was founded by John D. Swenbeck on May 3, 1914 and specialized in seafood. It ran for 32 years and 19 months.

There was not much information about this restaurant but according to Echoflam.com, Swenbeck’s was opened along with many other restaurants such as Ebsen’s and the Willow House. These restaurants were all located in Salem Willows after an amusement park knowned as Willow Park was opened in 1880. These restaurants were called “Restaurant Row”, an essential part of the Willows to attract and serve the tourists as well as locals. Eventually, Willows Park became well-known for its restaurants with seafood dishes, including Swenbeck’s. Swenbeck’s Park’s slogan was “Known From Coast to Coast”.

Swenbeck’s seems to be a friendly family restaurant because of its price and size. It is relatively big, considering it can serve up to about 110 people. The price was average compared to dollar price of the menu I work with which was created and published in 1931. Dinner combination price in range from $1-$2. The menu was designed very organized by type of seafood dinners: lobster, shore, willows fish and fish. They have have a la carte which are side orders such as chowders and salads. Swenbeck’s food options and menu language are very simple and straightforward.

Even though it was closed down, Swenbeck's is still a part of Willows history that contribute to cultural value and restaurant development in Salem and New England.