Salar Restaurant and Lounge

Salar Restaurant and Lounge

⭐ 4.6/5 (1272 reviews) 💰 $50–100 per person Peruvian restaurant

📍 400 E 5th St, Dayton, Ohio

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6/5.0 • 1272 reviews
📍 Address
400 E 5th St
Dayton, Ohio 45402
📞 Phone
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$50–100 per person
🍽️ Category
Peruvian restaurant

⏰ Opening Hours

Closed ⋅ Opens 4 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

Stepping into Salar Restaurant and Lounge in Dayton, Ohio, you're immediately transported to a vibrant and inviting Peruvian oasis. The restaurant's warm, contemporary ambiance is accentuated by its sleek, modern decor, with an emphasis on natural materials and earthy tones. Soft lighting and an open, airy layout create a relaxing and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a night of culinary exploration.

Salar's menu is a masterful blend of traditional Peruvian flavors and innovative vegan interpretations. Diners are spoiled for choice, with a wide array of small plates, entrees, and desserts that cater to both adventurous and traditional palates. Standout dishes include the Lomo Saltado, a classic Peruvian stir-fry made with marinated seitan, and the Causa, a vibrant layered dish featuring Peruvian yellow potatoes, avocado, and a variety of flavorful fillings. The menu also boasts an impressive selection of vegan ceviches, empanadas, and even a decadent vegan version of the traditional Peruvian dessert, Suspiro de Limeña.

The service at Salar is attentive and knowledgeable, with staff members eager to guide diners through the menu and make recommendations based on personal preferences. The overall value of the dining experience is exceptional, with each dish showcasing the skill and creativity of the kitchen. Whether you're a seasoned Peruvian cuisine enthusiast or a curious vegan explorer, Salar Restaurant and Lounge promises to delight your senses and leave you craving more of its unique and delectable offerings.

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

Stepping into Salar Restaurant and Lounge is like embarking on a culinary journey to the vibrant streets of Peru. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a blend of modern and traditional design elements that create a sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance. The decor features a mix of natural materials, such as wood and stone, complemented by vibrant splashes of color that evoke the richness of Peruvian culture. Subtle lighting fixtures cast a warm glow, creating a cozy and intimate setting, perfect for an evening of indulgence.

The seating arrangements at Salar are thoughtfully designed to cater to various dining experiences. Intimate tables dot the main dining room, allowing for comfortable conversation and connection, while a lively bar area invites guests to sip on expertly crafted cocktails and mingle. Larger groups can find solace in the spacious, communal-style seating, which encourages shared plates and lively discussions. Throughout the restaurant, the ambiance is one of refined elegance and welcoming hospitality, setting the stage for an unforgettable culinary adventure.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A wide selection of gluten-free Peruvian dishes prepared with care to avoid cross-contamination.
  • Raw Food Choices - Fresh, uncooked salads, ceviche, and other raw vegan dishes that highlight vibrant flavors.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free sauces, dressings, and entrees for those with nut allergies or sensitivities.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan meals that cater to the ketogenic diet, such as avocado-based dishes.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday Lunch - Salar's vegan Peruvian cuisine offers a refreshing midday respite, with creative dishes and a lively atmosphere perfect for a business meeting or leisurely catch-up with friends.
  • Weekend Brunch - Indulge in a vegan twist on Peruvian brunch classics, from savory lomo saltado to sweet quinoa pancakes, complemented by a selection of refreshing cocktails and live music.
  • Friday Dinner - Experience the vibrant energy of Salar on a Friday night, with a menu that showcases the best of Peruvian vegan cuisine and a lively lounge atmosphere perfect for unwinding.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Authentic Peruvian Cuisine: Salar Restaurant and Lounge offers a unique dining experience, serving traditional Peruvian dishes with a contemporary twist. The menu features a range of vegan options, showcasing the vibrant flavors and diverse ingredients of Peruvian cuisine.
  • Innovative Vegan Adaptations: The restaurant's culinary team has expertly adapted Peruvian classics to create a diverse array of vegan dishes, without compromising the authentic flavors and textures that Salar is known for.
  • Dedication to Sustainability: Salar is committed to sustainable practices, sourcing locally and ethically produced ingredients to minimize its environmental impact. The restaurant's commitment to sustainability extends to its energy-efficient operations and waste reduction initiatives.
  • Immersive Dining Experience: Salar's atmospheric dining room and lounge create an immersive experience, transporting guests to the vibrant culture of Peru. The restaurant's decor and ambiance seamlessly blend Peruvian influences with modern design elements.
Chef Background: Salar's culinary team is led by Chef Ernesto Delgado, a Peruvian native who has dedicated his career to sharing the rich culinary heritage of his homeland. Trained in traditional Peruvian cooking techniques, Chef Delgado has honed his skills in some of the most prestigious restaurants in Peru and the United States. Sourcing and Preparation: Salar sources its ingredients from local and regional producers

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

Salar Restaurant and Lounge is nestled in the heart of Dayton's thriving Oregon District, a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood known for its unique shops, art galleries, and live music venues. Surrounded by historic buildings and tree-lined streets, the restaurant is just a short walk away from popular attractions like the Dayton Art Institute and the Schuster Center, which hosts a variety of performing arts events throughout the year.

Salar's clientele is a diverse mix of local foodies, art enthusiasts, and professionals who appreciate the restaurant's commitment to sustainable and ethical dining. The location's proximity to the bustling downtown area and the University of Dayton campus also makes it a popular destination for students, faculty, and young professionals seeking a refined yet relaxed dining experience. With its sleek, modern decor and Peruvian-inspired menu, Salar has become a beloved fixture in Dayton's vibrant culinary scene.