Here at the Salem Convention Center, we're proud to be part of what makes this city so special. Just like the Pacific Northwest itself, our culinary offerings are rich, diverse, and crafted with care. Whether you're visiting for a conference, celebration, or special event, we're here to provide an unforgettable experience, especially when it comes to the food. If you were to ask our staff which menu is their favorite, the answer would be almost unanimous: the Baja Buffet. It's the undisputed favorite around here. Executive Chef Tory and his talented team have created a spread that brings bold flavors and balanced spice together in perfect harmony. The real star, though? The salsa. Whether you're a fan of just a touch of heat or love it fiery, our salsa has earned a reputation for pleasing all palates. Crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and made with genuine passion, this salsa is more than just a condiment—it's a true culinary experience. Guests often say things like, “I wish I could buy this at the store,” and “This reminds me of my childhood in the kitchen with my grandma and aunties.” Those sentiments resonate deeply with us because the recipe comes from our beloved “Mama,” Maria Villa. She joined the convention center team when we first opened our doors in 2005, and her vibrant, feisty spirit lives on in every batch of her signature salsa. Though we don't currently bottle and sell our salsa (tempting as it may be!), we're happy to share the recipe so you can bring a bit of the Salem Convention Center into your own kitchen. “Mama,” Maria Villa SCC Signature Salsa Recipe Ingredients 2–3 jalapeños 1 bunch of cilantro 6 ripe tomatoes 1 tsp cumin 1 tsp salt 3 tsp lemon juice 1 tsp oregano And a whole lotta love! Preparation Add jalapeños and tomatoes to a pot of boiling water. Boil until the tomato skin begins to loosen. Remove the jalapeños and tomatoes from the water and transfer them to a blender. Add all the remaining ingredients. Blend until smooth, then let it cool. Serve with tortilla chips or as a flavorful topping for your favorite Mexican dishes Whether you're a local or just passing through, we invite you to stop by the Salem Convention Center and experience our take on Northwest hospitality—where every detail matters, especially the food. From our Baja Buffet to our beloved salsa, we're serving up more than just meals—we're serving memories.
