At the Salem Convention Center, we believe that great food has the power to bring people together—and that everyone deserves a seat at the table. Creating that kind of experience means continuing to evolve alongside our guests. As the world of dietary preferences and restrictions grows, our culinary team has been thoughtfully expanding our menus to ensure every guest feels considered, included, and genuinely excited about what’s on their plate. Across our buffets, you’ll now find a wider range of options designed to meet a variety of needs without compromising on flavor or experience. From Vegetarian Quiches featured on our breakfast buffet to Vegan Burgers on our Smash Burger Buffet, we’ve made it a priority to incorporate dishes that feel intentional rather than like an afterthought. Our globally inspired offerings have also grown, with additions like a Vegan Vegetable & Tofu Pad Thai on our Pacific Rim Buffet and a Seasonal Vegan Risotto on our Tuscan Buffet—bringing bold flavors and inclusive options together in a seamless and elevated dining experience. And of course, no meal is complete without something sweet. We’ve been exploring more inclusive dessert options as well, including a refreshing Gluten-Free Almond Lemon Cake, Gluten-Free Breakfast Muffins, and a rotating selection of Vegan Dessert Bars—all created to ensure every guest can indulge and feel included. Behind the scenes, our team has also been working hard to enhance the dining experience in meaningful ways. As part of our continued stewardship of both our guests and their experience, we’ve upgraded our buffet signage so that common allergens—Gluten and Dairy are clearly identified at each dish. This allows guests to navigate their options with confidence and ease. What truly sets our team apart is our commitment to our partnership with our clients. Whether you’re looking to incorporate a cherished family recipe, highlight a traditional cultural cuisine, or design a menu that aligns with specific dietary needs, our culinary team works closely with you to bring your vision to life. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about the food—it’s about creating an experience where every guest feels seen, welcomed, and cared for. Recipe Spotlight: Huckleberry Pancakes One of our favorite ways to bring people together is by sharing recipes that feel a little like home. These Huckleberry Pancakes are a guest favorite—perfect for a cozy morning or a special brunch gathering. Ingredients Dry Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 tbsp baking powder 2 tsp baking soda 1 tsp salt ¼ cup sugar ¼ tsp fresh grated nutmeg Wet Ingredients: ¼ cup melted butter 2 whole eggs 2 cups buttermilk ½ tsp vanilla Additional: Huckleberries, as needed Instructions In a bowl, mix all dry ingredients together and set aside. Melt butter and allow it to cool for a few minutes. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then whisk in the buttermilk and vanilla. Stir in the cooled butter. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking. Heat a pan or griddle with butter and a small amount of vegetable oil. Ladle batter into the pan, sprinkle huckleberries on top, and flip when bubbles begin to form. Cook until golden brown on both sides and serve warm.
