Sad to say I didn't care much for this place. I ordered the chicken Caesar wrap. It had too many croutons and was really salty. The lobster bisque soup was good though. My friend didn't love her dish either. It was the brunch mushroom burger. The atmosphere is cool and the service was good.
(3)
Franklin M.
Great service from our waiter, he couldn't be more helpful. We ordered an iced mocha and it was very good, it had the perfect flavor and not over sweetened. My teen daughter ordered a few items and devoured them all, she is picky so that is a good sign that the food is good.
(5)
Christina D.
I've been going to the Gulu Gulu since it opened its Salem location, but I have yet to have a completely satisfying experience while I'm there. Starting off with the good. The food is excellent with pretty generous servings for the price. A good selection of loose leaf and iced teas, decent coffee and lattes, and the drink menu is impressive (although I'm not old enough to order a beer just yet). Also LOVE that it's the only place in Salem open after midnight on weekends that isn't 21+ or full of drunk sports fans or bad karaoke. Unfortunately, the service has always been less than impressive, as already stated in most other reviews. It often takes 10 minutes (usually more) to get a waiter's attention, and I've also received many wrong orders - even the simplest things, such as getting a decaf latte as opposed to a regular. Also - as much as I like hanging out at Gulu on a Friday night - the live music is usually too experimental and strange for me to handle. But no matter what, I still enjoy going to Gulu every now and then. Hopefully their service improves so the good will eventually outweigh the bad.
(3)
Sarah K.
Came to Salem w/ the intention of going to Coven Cafe for post-half-marathon recovery lunch (cheese? bread? meat? yes, please). Was very sad to discover that Coven does NOT exist anymore (not from the area, so I missed that memo). However, am very pleased that the no-Coven led us to try out Gulu Gulu instead. You can make your own meat & cheese plate, which comes with a substantial amount of delicious, crusty bread - awesome. (Get the marinated brie and the mustard cheddar!) Lots of tasty sandwich options - my husband described the turkey/manchego/apple butter panini as "a religious experience". After lots of begging and pleading, I got to steal a bite - he wasn't wrong. Didn't order any crepes (this time), but there were sweet and savory options, and they looked amazing. Will happily go back the next time I'm in the area.
(4)
Laura D.
I used to love this place, but now I'm kinda 'meh' about it. The food is good, and they have decent entertainment, but the service has gone way down hill.
(3)
Brenna R.
Great lunch menu! A great place to meet up with friends! Atmosphere is relaxing. Food is very very good!
(4)
Angela Q.
I may have given this place more stars had we actually EATEN there. Instead we pulled up a seat at the bar and were ignored for 10 minutes before rudely being asked if we planned on eating and then told that if we were the wait for food was 45 minutes. And it wasn't even very busy. Boooo
(1)
Anthony R.
Horrible food, miserable people, stay away. This place is literally the worst restaurant I have ever encountered in my life. Unless you enjoy eating food that tastes like cat throw up, and talking to people that think they are gods gift to the universe, do not go here. Spend your money on anything else or just throw it away because this place doesn't deserve it.
(1)
liza c.
There is a giant Boston Terrier head on the front of this building. How could anyone not go in?! Seriously, though, once you get back the extreme cuteness of Gulu Gulu's mascot, you realize that the cafe isn't half bad. In fact, it's pretty great. Coming from Philly, it's hard to be satisfied with the dining options of a small town so considering what we were up against during this trip, we were pleasantly surprised. Everyone is really friendly at GGC and the dining room is spacious, yet cozy. Plus there is an outdoor seating option with a decent view of downtown Salem's goings-ons. Also, great beer list for a small town like Salem! Things to improve on - desserts were tasty, but possibly not that fresh. And our waittress mayyyy have been stoned and not in a funny way.
(4)
Etta M.
Mmm! Met some friends for drinks and snackies on Saturday afternoon. We each had a cheese and meat plate, it was so tasty! We were given plenty of time to sit at our table and sip on our beers (or italian soda in my case) and enjoy each other's company. The waitstaff was wonderful and helpful. I will be going back for sure.
(5)
Lisa J.
Gulu Gulu cafe was introduced t me last year by my sister and I have been going there at least monthly ever since. The staff is laid back and friendly, the menu is very interesting and the atmosphere is chill. Their Beer selection is great. They have a rotating tap menu that is always fresh and will have something for everyone. Their bottled selection is well thought out and doesn't contain Coors, Budlight or Corona ;) They support local artists, have music and open mic nights and band performances. Be sure to check the events board above the bar or the website before planning an evening there. If you don't and just show up there might be a huge crowd waiting for a band to perform or some such. I'm pretty sure they offer free wifi and you can sit and read by the window in one of their comfy chairs and sip a latte all day if you want without being harassed. If you're looking for good food, good atmosphere, friendly servers and NO Yeah Dudes then this is the place for you!
(4)
Lauren F.
Gulu Gulu Cafe has outdoor seating, an extensive beer list (including Framboise!) and an interesting menu of crepes and sandwiches. My husband and I have been there twice, and I don't think I can go again without ordering the Meat and Cheese Coalition - a plate of 3 meats and cheeses you pick out from a list. The habanero cheddar is hot! So far everything I've ordered there has been good: ham and Brie crepe, blue cheese salad (nice amount of blue cheese, pears, and walnuts). I do think the service could be a little more attentive though. The last time we went our waitress forgot about us and another server reminded her to come out and give us the check - d'oh!
(4)
Janice R.
Wow!! Excellent breakfast!! Fresh delicious eggs in wonderful croissant, and banana bread. Superb coffee!! Give me another. Wait service so nice!!! Thank you to Matt!! With all our demands and questions since we are new customers today. lol We sat by the speaker, but then my husband asked for the music to be turned down! and they turned it down, thank you! I/we shall be back!! and soon!!
(5)
Kate P.
My husband and I went in here last night. We were drawn to the cute decor, the vegetarian-friendly menu, and the chance to eat outdoors on what was a crisp fall evening. The food was good, but ultimately the service wasn't great. My husband's appetizer came out with another table's appetizers and they didn't bring mine out. His was soup and since we were outdoors on a chilly evening, so he really didn't have a choice but to eat it. Our main courses came out while he was still eating his soup, and they brought my appetizer (salad) at the same time. I told the food runner who dropped off the food that I didn't want my salad anymore since my main course was there. She said that she didn't think it would be possible to remove from the bill, and I asked to speak to a manager. She said there wasn't a manager on duty, and I reaffirmed that we needed it to come off the bill. Our server then came out and said she put the salad in as an appetizer (implying she had done her part but the kitchen or someone else had made the mistake) and that it was policy not to take things off the bill. She said she could wrap it for us to take with us. We said that because we didn't live around there, that wouldn't work for us and we would need it off the bill. These things happen, and I know that servers can't always handle these situations on their own / without the involvement of a manager, so we probably would have just dealt with it and paid for the salad, except our server seemed ticked off or offended by the situation and that's when service really dropped off. Although there was an empty drink glass on the table, she didn't ask if we wanted more drinks (as she was walking away we had to call after her and ask for more drinks). The food runner checked on us during our meal and asked how our food was. The runner was also the one who ultimately picked up our plates when we were done. The next thing the server did was drop the check off. She didn't ask if we wanted desert or coffee or more drinks. She just dropped the check and ran. (We probably would have stayed around and ordered desert.) The check had the salad on it. If she had bothered to acknowledge the situation again and say something along the lines of, "I'm sorry for what happened, but I'm afraid I can't take the salad off the bill" we would have been like, "sure, we get it, it's not a problem". But the fact that she never apologized, dropped the check and ran, and didn't seem to give a damn about us after the issue with the salad, said to us that this place needs some serious Service 101 for its servers. We wanted what we were paying for and asked for a new salad to take with us. They did this and in less than 5 minutes, it was in our hands and we were out the door. In the end, they threw a salad away and are getting a thumbs down review here. It would have been better if they managed to get the first salad out in less than 5 minutes, took it off the bill, or just apologized. Next time we're in Salem, we'll be staying away from this place.
(1)
Janet D.
Funky little place in center city Salem. Get the cheese and meat platter for a wonderful midday snack or appetizer. The sage cheese is smooth and tasty and the red dragon is a unique texture and flavor. Add a glass of wine or a pint. A great place to just relax! Service is relaxed, friendly and good.
i came here as a tourist recently while visiting a friend. I must say the atmosphere is really cool, very "rebellious" very "punk rock" or "rockabilly" type. Good selection of beer. And they have veggie treats. The decor is very artsy and doesn't feel like a tourist trap. :D We had the Marinated Brie cheese starter.......omg. it was heaven on earth, the flavors of the Olive Oil and the brie mixing together in that creamy goodness was just delightful, something I hope to taste again. the flavor is strong, but the cream of the brie soothes it down. Then we had the Grapeleaves had a strong favor, but it comes with a yogurt dip, so it was really good. I notice they mix flavors here a lot, and I like that. The service was ok, I do remember though, me and my friend drinking our water slowly. The staff seemed really nice, they have lots of art stuff all over, and I think they sell art work on their website. The food here was fabulous, filling, and not cheesy tourist crap, I also had the Lyon Vegeterian Panini, SO GOOD! OMG! artichokes just teased me and made me go SQUEE! the sandwich just tasted wonderful, and melted in my mouth. You have to try this! :D I would go back when I go visit my friend again. :D If your'es in the Salem area, and want to get away from the cheesy witch stuff, GO HERE you'll be glad you did. :D check it!
(5)
Beth G.
I'm so grateful that a place like this exists in Salem. It's a cool cafe w/funky art, friendly vibe, good food, great beer and wine selection. The service can be pretty slow, but then again what's the rush when one is in a nice space? Hence, go when you have time to relax for a bit. When people come to visit we always stop at the Gulu, and our visitors are typically impressed. Even when people aren't visiting, we like to go here w/groups for shows. The bands and DJ are usually quite fun. The menu is quite varied and while I have tried other sandwiches/ apps, etc, I keep going back to the same thing: the Hearty Vegetarian wrap. So good! in a spinach wrap... boursin cheese... artichoke hearts... yum... The nice thing though is that if you see something under the panini choices and you would rather it in a wrap, they'll do it, no problem. Oh, but let me let you in on a little secret: ask about their specialty drink (non-alcoholic). Last year it was a delicious ginger lemonade; this year it's a rooibos iced tea. And oh.my .god is it heavenly! Ask for it and thank me later ;)
(4)
Kelly S.
This is one of my favorite places in Salem, which rules as it's just a short walk from my apartment. The food is great, very veg*n friendly, and a great beer list! I generally go for lunch, it just has that relaxing mid-day kind of vibe. I also note the "scene kid" vibe, but whatever. That's something I can easily look over. More importantly, the staff is friendly. This is a great place to meet up with friends or read a book by yourself. Really glad Salem offers a place like this.
(5)
G M.
Impressive, we really enjoyed their menu! So many interesting choices! Unfortunately we only had time for lunch before going to our next destination. From outside, it didn't seem like much, but once seated we were impressed with the atmosphere. (However, I don't think we'd enjoy being here for live music night.) It seemed to be an eclectic place where you can have a conversation with lunch, or check your email over coffee. There were even books and board games in the corner. They appeared to have a bar, but I can't say for certain. They have a tiny outdoor seating area, which I imagine is always full! The food was really good. I had a really nice chicken sandwich with apple butter, and my wife was very pleased with her coffee. Also they had bottled soda instead of fountain, for which I applaud them. (Fountain soda tends to be replete with bacteria.) My wife comments that although she liked her sandwich, much of the chicken was fatty and inedible. The waitress was friendly and fairly attentive. Oh! And they had a sticker in their window for Yelp, which is how I discovered this site!
(4)
Jessica S.
Great place, great food, great atmosphere! I had a Turkey Club wrap and a Creme Brulee latte, and it was wonderful! My friends all got savory crepes, and they looked so delicious, I'm going to have to go back and get one myself! Too bad I'm not a Salem native, because I'd go here all the time!!
(4)
Christopher R.
We are planning on buying a home in Salem soon so have been spending a lot of time there looking at Open Houses and exploring the non tourist areas. We usually eat at Finz or Salem Beer Works when we are in Salem as they are two of our faves. We wanted something quick in the downtown area, that was not too heavy or too expensive. We always park near and walk by Gulu Gulu but decided this time to pop in and try it. The atomosphere is casual (they also have a great outdoor eating area), a little funky and very open. This is the kind of place I could see myself becoming a regular at. Maybe getting lunch, hanging in one of the chairs or couches, with my lap top on thier free WiFi. We started with the Cheese and Meat Coalition!! Chorizo, goat cheese and gouda. I had the Chicken Cordon Bleu Crepe. I was ecstatic that there were some French items on the menu (quite a few actually). This crepe was out of this world good. The flavors were so right on and the crepe was perfectly cooked. I will defintely be coming back here and trying everything on the menu as it all sounds so GOOD!!!
(5)
Gina C.
This place was one of the best places I have eaten in a long time. I got the Munich panini and it was probably the best roast beef I have ever had. The service was attentive but not annoyingly present. The atmosphere was really relaxed, it was a younger crowd for the most part but there were a couple of older guys getting some coffee. While I didn't drink, there beer selection was unreal. This place is a must go if you are in the area.
(5)
K M.
I love love love this place! They use amazing loose leaf tea and you get your own little teapot. Amazing atmosphere and a comfy couch. Only complaint is the seat yourself rule which leads to a free for all i.e. one couple taking up a table for 6??? Other than that it's adorable
(4)
Stumbalina b.
I really wanted to like Gulu Gulu, but my visit was a bust. If not for this review, i'm sure I won't remember the decidely underwhelming sandwich (Lyon Veg) with an unimpressive side dish and truly disappointing service. We left hungry and frustrated. At best, they have an impressive array of beer and they seem to wisely avoid making "witch" puns.
(1)
Justin P.
Woohoo, they got it together. Had a trippy DJ spinning some old-school hits as well as just plain old odd electronica, but it adds to the ambiance when you're drinking Absinthe or some Cedar flavored liqueur and eating a bohemian inspired fare. Glad to see they figured out how to hire young people that attend to their customers because with that food and drink selection plus the crazy looking artwork on the walls (in a good way) they can't lose! Back again as a regular, good to see it's being well-handled. Cheers from Boston!
(4)
Khunravin H.
Good place to go for lunch. Right in the center of Downtown Salem, right behind "Sabrina, the Witch" statue. For the few times that I've been there, the food, and service has been good. I've actually never been inside the business; rather be outside when weather permits. But yeah when in Salem MA, do try breakfast or lunch here.
(4)
Anthony M.
I went to gulu gulu cafe in the hopes of finding a different kind of cafe and after reading the reviews and checking it out myself, I was not disappointed. We went on a dinner and a movie night. (which I want to steal along with a couple other ideas) I do not remember the name of the movie but there was a good crowd and everybody there seemed almost like a family. Strangers were talking to one another and sharing stories and playing games. They have board games to play if you feel the urge to get a game going. I noticed that they have risk so I might have to come by and play some time. The service was great. The server really seemed to like his job and had a great deal of knowledge about the vast variety of unusual beers on tap and in bottle. The owners have done a fantastic job putting a cafe together that makes patrons and employees feel welcome and a place that you can be yourself. I also really liked that the menu was so different from other places, and that on the back under FAQ's it even said to not be afraid to try new things. The food was good, we tried some new stuff which is always fun! Atmosphere was very cool, I love the Christmas lights in the window (something i really need to get back in my place) The only complaints I have is that the grape leaf app. was under seasoned, and they have regular Gouda, not smoked... Smoked is SO much better! I will DEFINITELY go back, I want to check out some different entertainment nights.
(4)
Waldo J.
My wife and I went here for lunch recently. I had the red pepper tapenade and a ham and brie crêpe, she had the macaroni and cheese. Both of our meals came with salads. My portions were reasonable, through she was given enough mac and cheese to choke a horse. The wait time was fine, the service friendly, if disorganized. (For example, we were given twice as many napkins and knives as we needed, but no forks.) The food wasn't outstanding, but it wasn't bad. The prices were wholly reasonable. Selection was good, but not suspciously broad. Though I wouldn't return, it's only because I'd like to try other restaurants in the area, not because there was anything wrong with Gulu-Gulu.
(3)
Jess M.
I came here to kill some time while visiting Salem. The patio was mobbed, so I grabbed a seat at the bar. I got a house coffee and spinach artichoke dip. They put way too much sugar in my coffee so I asked for a new cup. They gave me a new one, no problem. The coffee was solid and the dip was phenomenal. Your typical spinach artichoke dip has cheese in it, but this one was just spinach and artichoke with cumin. Best spinach artichoke dip I've ever had. The flatbread it was supposed to come with was just plain pita bread but it worked. The only downside to this place is that the bathrooms were not very clean. They reminded me of a club bathroom. So pee before you come here. But definitely go.
(4)
Julia N.
I dont live close, I've been here twice and LOVED the sandwhiches I've ordered. The chicken salad wrap is so good, i wanna go there right now and get it I like the atmosphere, very cambridge or seattle :)
(5)
Jenna P.
Gah..I love this place. The Gulu has it all--delicious food of all sorts, scrumptious crepes and treats, tons of beer selections, and a spectacular bean. Cannot forget about the comfy environment and the visually appealing decor. If you hit it right, you can also enjoy some live local music which is almost always surprisingly awesome! A must visit when you're in Salem!
(5)
Joe B.
UPDATE: Still a fan. I still love the food here and the beer selection is just awesome. I've been going here since the place opened and something that is very consistent is that the wait staff is notoriously slo'oooow. Even when it's not very busy. Sometime they'll completely forget about that round of drinks (just 2-3 drinks... not 20 or anything like that) you ordered 15min ago. Or you'll be given menus and then no follow up for decent amount of time. My favorite is ordering a beer, waiting and then watching the waitress remember... then run over to the bar to place the drink order. Happens a lot. One visit, it happened every single time I ordered a beer. I highly recommend sitting at the bar if you can. Your can order food there too. No service problem there. Other than that... great food, beer and atmosphere. A "must visit" place in Salem.
(4)
Anthony S.
They have some really cool crepes, both sweet and savory, but don't dare order one of if you're during their brunch hours - they suddenly are incapable of making something on their menu all other times. Bizarre. Wait staff are pretty airy and don't seem to understand what serving a customer means. There are one or two that get it, but more often than not we get a spaceshot. This is still one of the better menus out there and is a cool place overall. I think I'd have rated it lower if I didn't love the cool art vibe in the bathrooms and throughout the restaurant.
(3)
William S.
Best cappuccino ever, and great sandwiches in a relaxed atmosphere with incredibly pleasant staff. The Barcelona (a turkey sandwich) is my favorite and I tend to stick to favorites, so I can't comment on others but would willing to bet they are as good. An endless and interesting beer list, outdoor setting in warm weather, bagels on a Sunday morning: it all makes to living in Salem all the sweeter.
(5)
Robyn T.
If you're in the mood for junk food this may not be your place. However, in our eternal quest to treat our bodies better, this is such a great option. Although this place can sometimes be a little too earthy for me, everything I've had here is good. Plus they have a great adult beverage selection! The atmosphere is fun and funky and artistic. They have live music and open mic and everyone just sits where they feel, even if strangers are sharing tables. Most recently I ordered the roast beef and boursin wrap and although I felt it was tasty, it was a little small. I was actually still hungry when I left which is never a great sign. It doesn't really take away from the good experience but I probably won't order it again. This is a go-to place for a lot of people in Salem which makes it a regular spot for me. I always find something I know I'll like, and again, they have a great craft beer and cocktail selection.
(4)
Julie Z.
I'll start by saying this restaurant is in a great location and is one of the only late night food options I was able to find on the almighty yelp while visiting Salem. However, nothing really stood out about the food. Got a lackluster spinach and artichoke dip and kielbasa which was not like I'm used to getting at home. I had high hopes for my mac and cheese but when I sat down to pen this review, I had honestly forgotten what I'd ordered and really had to think about it. Nothing bad, nothing spectacular. 3 stars
(3)
Mark T.
Location: A very unique spot on downtown salem. Clean, and nicely set up, as if to hang out with friends but without an overly restaurant-y or bar-y feeling. There is also a creative personal touch from the owners that is pleasant but that I cannot accurately describe. However, the tables for two should have a bit more room, and it is hard to fit everything in combination with napkin/utensil holders. Service: It is polite, and friendly, however it can be very slow and inattentive. Although the restaurant was not busy, it took a while for the drinks (Cola and Iced Tea) to arrive, for our order to be taken and prepared. Halfway though my meal, I finished my tea, and the server asked if I would like a refill, I said yes. However, by the time it was brought to me I had already finished eating. I did not eat that fast either. If they had free refills this would not be an issue, but I ended up paying for a refill I barely touched. One final note is this, I asked if it would be possible to get more arugula salad on the side, rather than the server finding out and telling me it is a dollar, it was brought to my table with her stating it's only a dollar. The issue for me is that if I have to pay money, I have a right to decline before being charged. Saying no thanks after the salad has been brought to my table would feel kind of inappropriate. In the server's defense, I asked "is it possible to have more salad?", and not "How much would it cost to have more salad?" Food: I have no issue with the food, it is very good, has both unique and classic combinations, but it is not anything out of this world. The food is pleasant, and paninis are tasty, but again, by its nature it is nothing that could not be done at home with ingredient or a panini press. Oh, and them warming the Cap Cod chips adds a really nice touch. I have yet to try their crepes. Food does take a while, but their kitchen is the size of one in a really nice apartment. Suffice it is say tiny for an apartment. They are also overpriced. $10 of panini seems excessive, but then again, I am not aware of their costs.
(3)
Jodi E.
I'm convinced I'll be drinking iced soy mochas until my dying day. This place is now on my radar and when I'm in Salem it just might be my go to coffee stop! So tasty! I snagged a sip of my boyfriends cold brew, which was delicious! We'd never been inside and weren't sure how to order or where to pay but the guy who helped us was friendly & helpful! We took our drinks to go but the atkosphere seems laid back and a place I think I'd enjoy hanging out in longer. Definitely stop in here!
(4)
Jessica F.
My boyfriend and I stopped in here for a coffee while traveling. So I can only speak for the coffee. I got a blended iced coffee and it was amazing. This place is eclectic and fun. I also have a Boston terrier so I loved all the doggie tribute artwork.
(5)
Anissa Z.
Hummus wraps, meatloaf, brunch and waffles. Everything was awesome. I had the orange and walnut salad with bacon. The meal was light and refreshing
(5)
Mike P.
First time here. Very cool very hip vibe in a European style cafe. Interesting rock music in the air. Sat up at the bar and ordered a Far From The Tree Cider which hit the spot. I had the Barcelona Panini for lunch. Loved the crunchy bread and the moist turkey. It was complimented well with the mustard and the cinnamon aftertaste of the apple butter. Crisp potato chips and small garnish field green and Roasted Red pepper salad. Had a Second cider read my book between a girl knitting and a guy on his laptop. A very nice lunch. I expect to become a regular. Kaitlyn was a good bartender...mixing an absinthe drink right in front of me and making me feel like all my choices were the absolute right ones.
(5)
Ian G.
Excellent iced coffee drinks, especially the frozen latte. Definitely a local spot. Offers board games and simple food items. Staff is very friendly and welcoming. I'm sure the evening crowd is very fun. This place is definitely worth a visit for any traveler!
(5)
A W.
I like this place a lot. I like the food. I like the atmosphere. I like the location. The only thing is that it's can be under staffed. 35 minutes for a sandwich makes me want to just go home and make one myself. They could use one extra waiter too. But I still like this place.
(4)
Katherine H.
I love this place. It's part of what makes me love Salem. The atmosphere, the people... But also the food. I have yet to go when there's live music but sandwiches, appetizers, dessert, coffee, brunch, some ginger ale type drink and everything I've tried there in my 4 visits was wonderful. I also love that they are family friendly and are in a great location.
(5)
Jesse E.
My wife worked here since they opened. She was the kitchen manger for many years. I have been plenty of times. The staff has always been great, and very down to earth. The food was really good! I recommend the roast beef and Boursin wrap. The crepes and the breakfast sandwiches are very good as well. Tons of beer and wine to choose from at the bar. Overall a great atmosphere, great food and awesome staff. Couldn't be happier.
(5)
Arthur R.
We came here on the recommendation from another local business and the yelp reviews and we were not disappointed. I had the chicken cordon blue crepe (the Dijon mustard is spicy) and my wife had the portobello crepe. Excellent! We came for lunch so it was quiet and great for conversation.
(4)
Christine H.
I love their drink selection, most especially the liqueurs and wines. Their food portions are somewhat small but everything I have had there, like the cheese plates and the crepes from savory to sweet, have been made with care and good ingredients. By the way, their "adult" coffees/ciders/chais are VERY good. An apple cider with amaretto should be on their menu all year round, and a Bailey's Chai is like heaven in a cup.
(5)
Ian N.
A short while back I was rushing to get to work on time and had to skip breakfast. I work downtown, about 100ft from the Gulu, so I figured I'd swing in there after I get settled in at the office and grab a quick breffast sammich and a coffee. In, out, and back in the office in minutes. Done it dozens of times at other places in Salem, why would this be any different? Well, the answer to that is bored hipsters that don't give a sh*t about their jobs. My coffee was ready to roll in less than two minutes. The place was pretty empty, so I picked a good time. No complaints about the barista service. That guy was awesome and the coffee was excellent. HOWEVER, the kitchen was at a crawl. Like a 'fallen and I can't get up' geriatric 80-year old woman crawl. That's fine if you're an 80-year old woman who broke her hip slipping in the tub. If you're a 20-something hipster working in a kitchen of a busy (it wasn't at the time) downtown restaurant, this is not acceptable. I ordered a bacon, egg and cheese on crossaint. The following transpired over the next 20+ minutes as I waited... Cook slowly walked across the kitchen to get a plate Cook slowly walked back to same place to get a knife Cook slowly realized knife was dirty Cook slowly walked back to wash it Cook took 2 minutes to hem, haw, and make exasperated faces about how hard her life is in that kitchen Cook slowly started cooking the egg Cook slowly started cooking the bacon Cook slowly paced back and forth again and looked annoyed about having to do work Owner sat at his table, right next to where I was standing, and looked disinterested in the speed of his staff Barista noticed my annoyed look and kindly inquired about the delivery of my sammich Cook gave barista a dirty look and grumbled that it would be ready soon Barista kindly let me know that it was on its way Time passes... Seasons change... My beard grows to a ZZ Top level of respect... My coffee is long gone... My sandwich arrives. And this is par for the course. I think the Gulu offers a lot of great things - good food, a tremendous revolving beer selection, great coffee, relaxing atmosphere. The concept is great. However, whenever I go there the service is terrible and slow (particularly the wait staff and kitchen)...a trend that carries over to their sister pizzeria next door (another review for another time). While I'm sure my review won't change anything, I hope someone in charge takes notice and hires some decent help, rather than people that look cool. We already get enough of this at Snark Kitchen. There are other establishments around where you can be a funky place, but also knock customer service out of the park.
(2)
Harry B.
Food at Gulu is pretty meh. Kind of overpriced for what you get, and nothing stands out as amazing... but they have a kickass beer list. 20ish beers on tap and they're almost always all great. They've got all sorts of crazy stuff on those taps and they're rotating them constantly. Skip the food and grab a drink when there's some live music playing here.
(4)
Noha A.
I love love gulu, my university is nearby so I'm always there whenever I get the chance to go. The atmosphere is just as great as the service. They always have great bands playing to the set the mood. I always get a green tea with a Barcelona, which is the best sandwich!!! I recommend this place to all my friends and they always end up loving it just as much as I do!
(5)
Alex T.
Great place. Whether hanging out or on a mission for a meal this venue has it. A variety of bottled beer, combined with a home cooked cafe with an espresso bar. I ordered the Nice (Neese) Sandwich and took the recommendation for the plum jam spread. Excellent sandwich served on a home baked toasted bread, layered with apples, brie, and honey ham. Sweet and savory. Great place parked right in the midst of a perfect people watching spot in the town square. You must Try Try Gulu Gulu!!
(4)
Tasha L.
Have been here more than 10 times and never getting tired of their foods! Foods are heavenly delicious!
(5)
Keira L.
I've been going to Gulu for about 5 years. My go-to is an Iced Andes and Essjay Wrap on wheat. I'm also a fan of the meat &cheese coalition. Sweet crepes (banana strawberry nutella) and the berry nice are VERY good. I bring friends here whenever I can - it's great for vegetarians. Very cool vibe whenever you go in. The morning you'll usually find people working on their laptops. Nighttime is great for live music on weekends and wednesday (open mic). A great place in downtown Salem. Staff is consistently great. My one complaint is the portion size - it's not always consistent and is sometimes very disappointing.
(4)
Stephanie M.
I really, truly, absolutely love this place. I loved it when I lived in Salem, and I love it even more now that I live a ways away and have to drive up to Salem just to experience it. My girlfriend and I, during warmer weather and at the very beginning, or very far past October's end, make it a point to come up here at least once a month. We love to sit outside and people watch, or find a corner inside to sulk in for a couple of hours. Upon one trip here, my girlfriend and I met up with my best friend and after chatting for a while we stepped off the patio to have a cigarette. The doorman tried to warn us that we needed to stay close by due to capacity issues but we were clueless. We had to wait in line to get back onto the patio, our drinks calling to us from 5 feet away but we bantered with the doorman and weren't assholes about it like some other patrons. It's not their fault they have a fire code, and I've had some of my favorite places shut down for over occupancy. I generally only order the cheese plate.. because.. cheese. Need I say anymore? Ok.. I will. They have a mustard ale cheese that I have dreams about. The wait staff have always been incredibly friendly with us, but I'm one of those people that actually treats waitstaff with respect and am friendly right back at them. You get what you put out in this world. The beer selection is quite good, and they have my two favorite kinds of wine. Red.. and white. I know, I'm a classy girl that's hard to please. Since we generally sit outside we haven't experienced the live band action, but I could see the appeal for those that like that sort of thing. Overall? It's a really great place to have a good meal, with a lot of different options, a wide variety beer menu, and staff that isn't going to try to get you in and out.
(5)
John D.
Well on my second visit this place impressed me. I had the best lunch and cocktail I've ever had here. I ordered the Munich sandwich and Gary Bussi cocktail they were both amazing. I'd love to take a date here sometime.
(4)
Mallory T.
I live right on Washington Street in Salem. We have been here numerous times (perhaps each time expecting the food quality to change for the better?) and each time we leave wondering why this place is so popular. Yes, it has a "hipster" vibe, decent service, cheap prices. But the food itself Is so sub-par! Every time we get breakfast, the eggs are scorched and over cooked, the "Belgian waffle" is flat and sad looking, and the crepes are dry. Chicken salad wrap I ordered was filled with rubbery looking chicken and TONS of raw onion. I love raw onion but this was a little ridiculous. Not impressed, will probably not go again.
(2)
D D.
Sad to say, they have a horrible breakfast. Nothing gluten free. They ran out of muffins. The creps are made on same skillet and my husband and daughter said their bagels were a weird horrible taste. I ordered eggs and beacon.... The eggs were FAKE!! fake eggs, really??!! why!!! Bty the coffe was either old or burnt. The oj was good...... I wanted it to be 4 stars.
(1)
Valerie R.
Absolutely in LOVE with this place. It reminds me of some of the down to earth cafes I used to visit in San Francisco. Great atmosphere, low lull of friendly chatter, gluten free food options, and really pleasant staff. They allow dogs to eat with owners out on the patio, and they have an area for live entertainment, open mic, etc. Choose a comfy leather chair or sit at the bar to eat. The food is a mix of soups, salads, paninis, and desserts. I got the Istanbul panini with subbed gluten free wrap. It had turkey, tomato, fresh mozzarella, and pesto and came warm and toasty. Really happy with our choice to visit here! Wish there was something like it closer to home.
(5)
Maddie B.
The service is awesome! The employees are nice, "hipster", unique in their own way, and very genuine. The atmosphere is really nice if you're into a really relaxed vibe. It's more for those who like to relax and a "hipster" scene. The scenery is very peaceful. I have to admit the food is a 3.5 out of a 5 but the atmosphere and the employee makes up for it. I recommend the russel stover coffee for rainy days, s'mores crepes (warning: the center has a lot of nutella), and the barcelona panini. :)
(5)
Stacey S.
this place is the Tops! love the atmosphere and the food. great service and love the menu options. the soups are to die for
(5)
Lisa M.
Very healthy options and we need more of that around here. The atmosphere is very hip and cool! Great background music, and not too loud! Most people say they return cause is one of good feeling kind of places!
(5)
Dave M.
the place was pretty decent but not particularly anything special IMO. we got a brieberry crepe ($8) and the Barcelona panini ($9.25). both were good. the place is pretty big and well maintained. they provide a unique environment in a good way. our waitress never gave me a water refill so i had to ask another worker for that. service wasn't too great. i would recommend this place.
(3)
Francesca R.
I went to Gulu Gulu to see my little brother when he was headlining the Open Mic night--John Michael (Saves!) and I really liked it. First of all, it's a big, open cafe with a genuine European vibe. I like that the owners met in Prague at a now defunct cafe by the same name, and they have taken great pains to recreate a real European experience. There are a jumble of tables amidst clever artwork, all of which is conducive to sitting with your coffee and thinking deep thoughts or having great conversations over great beers. To that end, we went with the beer, and just like in Prague, there is a beer menu to serve all palates. My brother and his hipster friends all authoritatively ordered Rogue Dead Guy Ale, presumably just to order the most absurdly titled beer on the menu. Hubs, parents and I went for Krusovice on tap. I prefer Gambrinus and Staropramen Granat, but I'm always delighted when Czech beers are available and Krusovice is a solid entry. For Czech beer it's just OK, but in America it's a revelation. I did not eat when I was here but the website is very helpful on this point. They don't have a kitchen--just some fridges and a stove behind the bar, so the food is simple and meant as more of a complement to the cafe experience as opposed to the reason to go in and of itself. The only thing I would recommend is that they add the delectable honey cake (Medovnik) which is always available in Czech cafes. For one, it would be more authentic, for two, Medovnik is the goddamn bomb diggity of desserts. The service was great. There was a friendly gentlemen letting everyone know that it was bar service only that night. The website also goes to great pains to explain that there are only so many people working there who are bartender, server and cook alike, so not to get too fussed about how long your food is taking. Basically, it's like any cafe in Europe. Sit back and relax. I'm not sure about other nights but the Open Mic night was not too loud (conversations were still possible) and the quality of the music was actually pretty good. My brother is really good, but I was surprised (and relieved) to find the other acts all up to par.
(4)
Katie G.
You want a cool place to hang out and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea? How about a funky place to eat lunch with a friend? Perhaps you are looking for a place to lounge while you do your work? If you can answer yes to any of the above, Gulu Gulu Cafe is the spot for you! This eclectic place is located right in downtown Salem. The walls are lined with work from mostly local artists. You can buy them right off the wall! The floor is filled with a mix of small tables, lounge chairs, and couches. Pick your comfort! The food is delicious. I have had their fruit cup with yogurt and it was lovely! I couldn't stop eating it! My friend ordered a crepe that she raved about. In previous trips, I have enjoyed both warm and iced coffee medleys, all of which were quite good. Their sandwiches are also very good. The one thing keeping a 5 star rating is the price. It does seem to be a bit much, but not too much so. Just too much money for what you get in order to receive a 5 star rating.
(4)
Mike C.
I started going here when they first opened their doors when i lived in Salem. The first thing i noticed is how fresh everything was. Salad was crisp and green, the sandwiches were made with high quality ingredients and toasted perfectly (if that's how they came) and the beer menu was like none other I've ever seen (literally I've never heard of 95% of these beers). The menu was unique and not too long and included many things you don't see even typically at coffee shop-type places. If you get a chance you'll notice they have healthy offerings as well as comfort foods. Even after several years me and my girlfiend still treat ourselves to this place to enjoy a light brunch/lunch and a coffee. I will admit that during busy times it does take a long time to get your food but if you notice they do make everything fresh and their kitchen area is one of the smallest around, but they do make the best out of what they have which i can appreciate. The only reason it gets less than 5 stars from me is the occasional long wait and the fact that sometimes the music is WAAAAY too loud for me to enjoy a meal/coffee. i recommend this place to anyone passing through who wants a good quality meal at a fair price.
(4)
E K.
I always love goint to this place when i'm in town! The atmosphere is great and very laid back. It really does remind me of a Prague cafe. Their drink selections is great, and there is a lot to choose from. The Czech beers and milky way martini's are my favorites. The food crepes are pretty good too.
(4)
Todd L.
Nice staff, great regulars, amazing beers, good music, yummy foods. Awesome place to meet up and hang out. The music is hit or miss, but personally that makes it awesome. Give it a shot, I bet you'll be happy.
(5)
Chris C.
GuluGUlu has come leaps and bounds since it first opened.... when there were bugs in the window.... hair in the food...awful service.... and excruciating waits for food, regardless of if you were the only person in there. But it has redeemed itself, becoming cleaner and, overall, a pleasant place to be. Two thumbs up for GuluGulu!!!!
(5)
R B.
nothing amazing for vegeterians, just drinks that are allright bad service no good parking 'nuff said
(1)
Molly W.
Came here with a friend mid-day and had a wonderful time! We had a lot of catching up to do, and the waitress let us take our time ordering, and was very accommodating. They have a great beer selection, and a diverse menu of apps, salads and sammies. It has a coffee house feel, but I could see that it's a bar at night... intriguing! I'll have to come back and experience the nightlife here, but as a lunch spot it was just lovely. It was surprisingly busy for a lunch crowd - a true testament to how popular and successful it is! Obviously I am not alone when I say "Yay! I'm a fan."
(4)
Shari Z.
It isn't often that I fall in love with a place and end up going in often. I am way too distracted and non-committal when it comes to food and beverage options. I like to play the gastronomic field. Why settle down when there is so much choice? Gulu Gulu must be 'the one' then. In a short trip I ended up there often. Here's what I love about Gulu Gulu: Ambiance: sweet, calm, but not dead. There is always music playing, there are games you can play, and with two of four walls being mostly windows, you can watch the world go by as you consume your choice of beverage and write that novel you've been threatening. Staff: Super nice, friendly, however some of the staff are too young to drink and can't recommend from the beer selection (extensive!) Food: The menu offers some refreshingly comforting combinations of great bites, for example the macaroni and cheese with a small salad. The portions are perfect and realistic, not Cheesecake Factory over-generous. Drink: The beer, wine, and coffee menu on the large chalkboards behind the bar are impressive. For me, the Belgian beers ruled. The espresso is perfect, and they actually understand what a double espresso is, unlike the local Dunkin Donuts, who actually gave me four cups of espresso when I ordered two double espressos...um..? There is also a calendar of events and entertainment alongside the menus behind the bar so you won't have to sift through piles of fliers to figure out that day/night's entertainment. Try the cheese plate with a Framboise beer when you have just under an hour to kill before you need to hustle over to the commuter rail down the street. Heaven. I Gulu Gulu, and so must you.
(5)
Christi F.
Gulu Gulu is my go-to lunch spot in Salem. Just about everything I've had, from the crepes to salads to cheese plate to soup, has been delicious. And the beer menu rocks! Make sure you try one of the many daily beer specials. I've only been here during the day, so I can't comment on the night scene or the live music (though I wish I could!) The daytime atmosphere works for all ages and it's relatively baby-friendly, though I wouldn't bring a toddler for fear of disrupting people working on their laptops.
(4)
Brian L.
Meat. Cheese. Bread. On a plate. Best beer list this side of the Wild Horse on the North Shore. Why do people complain about the service? No rush. Where are you going. This is perfect and brings Salem up from being a dump to having ahint of non-Geek Halloween/Touristy culchah!
(5)
Jacqui C.
We LOVE Gulu Gulu! Found it by accident and by luck one day as we wandered around downtown Salem. Friends had recommended the place next to it but we wanted to check it out anyway. We've now made it OUR place whenever we go to Salem. What do I love about Gulu Gulu...hmmm. The atmosphere and decor make me think of college students with piercings and late night cramming sessions before Finals. The food makes me think of a great European cafe. So far I've had any number of dishes (their savory crepes are wonderful) but I tend now to stick with the Chicken Cordon Bleu Crepe or the Bagel with Lox. They have great coffees, a very large selection of beers, and I have yet to find a seating area there that was not good. The servers are great, quick and unobtrusive...if you want to stay for hours and nurse a cappuchino you go right ahead...you want to grab a quick sandwich or have a full meal, you bet! Yummy food, funky atmosphere, great staff...what more can a gal ask for?
(5)
Suzanne O.
This place is as close to a European bar as you will get on the North Shore, which is why I love it. 1- you can walk there from wherever you are parked in Salem. 2- the wireless is free and you can stay for hours upon hours in comfy seating so long as you have a tab. 3- it is very eclectic, but in a unique, modern, artistic kind of way. 4- the quality of the drinks, beers, and food is amazing. I particularly love the Three Philosophers beer (9.8% abv) and the Meat and Cheese Coalition (choose from three meats and cheeses served with fresh, toasted bread). The crepes are great, too. And the sandwiches. My favorite drinks were the white cloud and white raspberry lattes. If you have not been by the Gulu Gulu, you have to go. Screw Starbucks.
Stopped in for an early breakfast on Halloween, before the (rest of the) tourists woke up. We each ordered a veggie & fried egg sandwich on ciabatta toast - cheesy and crunchy and not so huge. I had a few cups of great dark coffee, and since the crowds hadn't yet descended en masse, it was nice to have a chance to ramble around the cafe to see all the zombie-themed art on walls. Wish we had a place like this back at home...
(4)
Chantal G.
I've been to Gulu Gulu a few times. They have a great selection of beer and different types of cheeses.I love that they have various events planned every night. Definitely a good place for a date or a hangout with friends.
(4)
Geoff M.
I went there once, I haven't been back. Gulu Gulu isn't bad by any stretch, but I can't really say it's good either. Good: Extensive Beer list. Excellent, excellent Bruschetta. Istanbul grilled panini is tasty. Bad: Service was very slow and they weren't crowded at all, they all seemed kinda high. Wine list doesn't match the beer list. No sides available. Tiramisu wasn't up to par. I wasn't a huge fan of the ambiance. It almost seemed like they were trying too hard to be cool, but I guess that's a "to each his own" sort of thing. My former roommate seemed to like it, but I think that had a lot to do with one cute waitress and the fact that he is a complete and utter moron, and totally thinks he's that cool and new age, when he's really just a dolt. I would consider going back, if I was in the mood for what they have, but it's been quite a while, and I haven't found my way back. The place has potential.
(2)
Ash B.
There are more detailed reviews here, so I will simply add my own details... For me, the pluses are free wi-fi, a large open interior, lots of windows, ok menu, and drinkable coffee (but nothing to write home about). On my second time there, I ordered a sandwich, and the server brought out two saying that they were running out of bread and took the opportunity to finish it off and said I could take the other sandwich if I wanted, which I did (since the first one was pretty good). On the downside, the service (except for that one nice exception) is pretty lousy. The last time, I sat down and could see them look at me but I was not acknowledged and it took them about 10 minutes before anyone even came over. So, do not go here if you are in a hurry. Gulu Gulu is a fine place to just hang out when there is time to kill, but the service certainly leaves something to be desired.
(3)
C P.
Gulu Gulu is fun, the staff is great and the atmosphere is usually busy but chill. It can be intimidating walking in because it's seat yourself and usually hard to find a table, but look around and you'll see one mixed in, in my case it always seems to be the last one open. The food is good, it's a pretty light menu consisting mostly of snacks, crepes, wraps and paninis. The crepes are great. The drinks are great, they don't have a full liquor license so they have (an amazing selection of) beer, a kinda blah selection of wine, and creative martinis made out of flavored liquors. They just can't serve "real vodka/rum etc...". For vegetarians it's a decent selection, not the best and for vegans you might want to try some place else. As far as I can remember they have one vegan wrap and I'm sure a salad.
(3)
Salvatore P.
We went to Gulu today for breakfast after having been there only for beers before. We decided never to eat there after seeing the state of the kitchen. It is a complete disaster. Dirty and badly organized with stuff everywhere. But today we said we would give it a shot anyway. So we sat far away from the kitchen. Out of sight out of mind! We're glad we ate there. We had the breakfast sandwiches which I easily could have had four of! And the banana peanut butter crepe was awesome. French press coffee was so rich and delicious. My advice to the owner's (if they ever read these) is to overhaul the kitchen and really clean it up. Service is a bit slow and chaotic it seems. But it has a laid back vibe so it wasn't really a problem for us. We dont mind slow service so much anyway since if we are out to eat we are rarely looking to rush in and out of the place. I am a recovering urban hipster so I like the atmosphere there and really like the eclectic music. Iggy Pop at breakfast is definitely my scene!
(3)
Gerry L.
Sandwiches are good, salad was fresh. Very casual atmosphere, younger crowd. Seems to be a place where people hang out for a while.
(3)
C P.
Sickening customer service and a pretentious atmosphere gets this place a 1 star and if it were possible to give 0 stars i would. I have never been treated so rudely by people who are in a service industry. The holier than thou hipster crowd love this place, pretentious beer selection and pretentious wait staff AVOID AT ALL COSTS. Unless you are a d-bag like everyone who goes to/works here.
(1)
Elizabeth B.
What a fantastic place! So much character, I love the art for sale on the wall, the bohemian feel, the unique light menu, the drinks, and the servers are friendly but not corporate fake chain restaurant friendly. I had a glass of white wine and started with the homemade hummus and vegetable platter which is delicious. I then moved onto the portabello mushroom, sun-dried tomato, goat cheese, salad which was good, but next time I will have the dressing on the side. My friend had a beer and enjoyed a turkey pannini which he loved. Gulu Gulu offers live music Thursday thru Saturday nights and possibly more days too? Gulu Gulu is clean, friendly, a great place for lunch, light dinner, coffee or drinks. Kind of reminds me of the coffee shop in the tv show friends. I will be back to check out the live music scene. Great place to meet friends and people watch : )
(3)
Chris H.
This is a great eclectic place to get some great food! If you're not into that eclectic feel of a place, then Gulu-Gulu is probably not for you. Their selection of food is not that extensive, but it is all fantastic. They have a large selection of beers, and I have heard from others that the music they occasionally have is great as well. I love this quirky little place, and I will definitely go back many more times!
(4)
Kelly G.
GF and I went on a north-shore drive today and ended up lunching at Gulu-Gulu...mostly because of the giant Boston Terrier head painted on the window. The atmosphere is funky. The service is great-- Steven is a peach. The beer selection is broad (including some fun Czech beers). But the food is a little underwhelming. GF felt like her crepe was too soft (almost like it was steamed). I had a chicken caesar...the croutons were inedible...I couldn't chew them...but the salad itself was fine.
(3)
Mary D.
It was a bit crowded around lunch time - but it was worth the short wait for a table. The beer menu was wide and the food was good. I really liked the raspberry strong ale. The service was friendly and I loved the dog paintings.
(4)
Jesse E.
This place is great! I haven't tried their food, but the Gulu Gulu cafe is just a really cool place. They serve coffee drinks and a wide array of alcoholic beverages.. All from a bar. They also have wait service and live music. This is a great place to see some local bands and an even better place for bands who want exposure. The atmosphere is great. I haven't tried their food, but I doubt that would change my opinion. This place is the perfect hangout.. Probably the coolest place to hang out in Salem.
(4)
Ryan D.
The atmosphere in Gulu is impossible to beat. It is an excellent spot to hang out with a fantastic beer selection either at lunch or the evening. The place is relatively small, but you can usually grab a spot to sit. The combination of layout and size really add to the feeling in there. Fantastic breakfast crepes are a highlight for breakfast. And you can't beat the appetizer list [cheese and meat coalition for example, grape leaves, humus]. One of my favorite spots as a Salem resident to grab a spot and hang out with a good beer and excellent music...
(5)
Jeremy H.
if you like hipsters, good food and lotts of people this place is for you
(3)
Jennifer S.
I am a fan. I come here a couple of times a month. I love checking out the latest art work and actually picked up a beautiful piece of art a few months back. This is really not the type of place you go to when you are in a rush and want a quick lunch. It has a laid back attitude and chill environment. Servers are not jumping to come wait on you, but get to you in a reasonable amount of time. If you are into micro brew beer you absolutely have to check this place out. They have one of the largest, most unique beer selections I have ever come across. I have been here at night and during the day. It is definitely a hipster bar, but a friendly one. Their cheese platter is good, the hummus is tasty and overall nice light food selection. Stuff your hamburger loving husband would probably not be into, but your vegetarian friend will swoon over. I come here on occasions for lunch when I work from home and need to clear my mind. they have excellent wi fi. overall I like it
(4)
Alexander H.
This place was a nice little surprise. We ordered a turkey sandwich and a veggie wrap and both of us enjoyed the food thoroughly. The wait staff was efficient and very friendly, and seemed to be genuinely happy to be working there. The deserts -- I had a fruit smoothie and my friend had a freshly baked scone -- were absolutely delicious. A couple of days later, we found ourselves back in that neighborhood and made the mistake of trying the place next door, the Upper Crust. We were so disappointed that we immediately went back next door to the Gulu Gulu Cafe and again enjoyed their delicious deserts and friendly wait staff, which successfully took the Upper Crusty taste out of our mouths (both literally and figuratively). Definitely worth a return trip!
(4)
Raithaa Z.
I'm in love. Seriously. Where else can you go for breakfast to get a plate of manchego cheese and chorizo (just one possible combination you can create when you order a delightfully named "Meat and Cheese Coalition"), even when your unadventurous dining companion just wants a bowl of Fruit Loops? Gulu Gulu Cafe is the best of all worlds when it comes to having a little bite or a cup of coffee by day, or a pint of beer or glass of wine by night. OR day. Whatever. I dig the funky atmosphere, the central location, and great, eclectic menu. And yes, a fantastic beer and wine selection, too. Living in Cambridge, I'd like to think I have a good amount of exposure to a wide spectrum of bars/restaurants, and Gulu Gulu ranks at the top. Worth the hike to the North Shore at least once every month or two. My only critique is the slight dinginess about the place. Honestly, I wish I could give Gulu Gulu a good overnight scrubdown. I realize that a place like this, which has both a day and a night life, can be tough to maintain spotlessly, but its mildly manky quality is the only thing preventing me from giving Gulu Gulu the full five stars. But whatever, if I'm in Salem and feeling a touch peckish, I can count on Gulu Gulu to give me something yummy to nosh on, and some cute puppies to look at.
(4)
Lisa C.
This is a fun place..lots of live music and really yummy coffee drinks. If you're in the mood for a beer, the selection is AWESOME!! I haven't tried the food, so I can't comment on that.
(4)
Cara Z.
If you're an art, music, or theatre student at the nearby Salem State University, you're pretty much expected to know of this place. It's hard to walk in and not know anyone in there for me. Amazing food selection, very quirky and unexpected. I absolutely love the Mac n' Cheese here, its very different and yet so, so delicious! One visit I went in, I asked for the remnants to be wrapped up... the waitress came out and told me that the kitchen had thrown it out... but she had them make me some fresh and hot! THAT is a great example of amazing customer service! The drink selection is also amazing, I have yet to try any of the alcoholic drinks here, but the list seems very impressive. Now, why I gave it four stars... the simple fact is, it can get EXTREMELY crowded in here. While I love it, if the place is packed, I cannot go in, and it always breaks my heart. Keep it up Gulu, you've won me over!
(4)
Jon H.
This is one of those places you give three tries because you keep telling yourself it has to work, and you really want to support it. I could probably get over the mediocre service, because it is pretty mediocre. But for a place that brands itself as a unique, independent cafe, their food manages to be more bland than Panera. The salads taste like someone bought a Doll mixed green bag from Crosby's and put a few drops of dressing on it. And the sandwiches feel, well, inept. It's a funny coincidence that this place and Upper Crust are both next to each other. They both seem to cater to people who go out to eat because they identify with the theme of the restaurant rather than, you know, the actual food. As for an alternative, if you don't mind the drive check out the Daily Harvest Cafe in Danvers if you're looking for a good sandwich or salad.
(2)
Timothy A.
Great evening spot with unique beers you've never tasted. We heard the Squeezebox Stompers, one of the best North Shore bands. Night club with breakfast.
(4)
Jen M.
Gulu is one of my favorite places in Salem. Now that I'm often towing along a baby when I'm out, it's retained favorite status by being kid-friendly (really all I need for that is 1) being cool with the kids being there, and 2) a decent sized bathroom that's clean enough for me to change a diaper and nurse a baby). The beer selection is excellent, and while I've been not drinking I've really enjoyed their smoothies and their ridiculously good hot cocoa. The sandwiches and salads are fantastic (try the Barcelona!).
(5)
Missus F.
smores crepe. trust me. awesome awesome crepes and salads. the actual crepe has a good, not bland flavor. gulu is great for weeknight meet ups with pals to catch up. it's a really cool atmosphere. check it.
(4)
Wyatt B.
Best coffee I have in a long time. Seating was a little interesting walking in, but service was great and the coffee! Worth the trip.
(5)
chris r.
My fiance and I visited Gulu on a recent October Saturday afternoon. The restaurant was relatively busy (very few empty tables by about 1PM) but we found a table without a problem. We were prompty approached by the waitress and our drink orders taken. They have a wide variety of beers and a decently sized wine list, along with a specialty range of sodas and diet coke. I went for the Cisco Whale's Tale Pale Ale and the future hubby got their version of coke (which tasted like any generic cola). After surveying the menu we both chose the meat and cheese plate, which allows you to choose 3 items from the large cheese menu and limited cured meat menu. Your selections are served with plenty of hot, toasted bread and a small bed of greens. Overall, this was plenty of food for me, but my fiance was ready for a sandwich about 3 hours later. I was happy with our lunch and the very reasonable price. I will note, however, that what appears to be a revolving art collection featured modern paintings of naked women, which may provide an endless source of entertainment should you decide to bring your 13 y.o. sons along. Most of the children in the restaurant were the infants of 30-something parents.
(4)
Kat H.
This place saved me on the day I had jury duty. We got a long break and were told to go explore, eat, drink & be merry before facing the guillotine of being called...so I wandered a bit, poked my head in here and there, and finally ended up at Gulu Gulu. I was the only person in there, so after perusing their lengthy menu (though rather scant on breakfast...they have bagels, muffins and crepes) got a white chocolate latte and toasted bagel. The wait staff (two gals) were awesome--chatty, friendly, and I wouldn't have minded staying there all day. They've got the inside set up very nicely...a couch or two, some big comfy chairs, coffee tables and regular tables of all sizes and shapes...a mix-matched art-house wonder. The local art on the way actually tempted me to buy some too, a very rare occurrence, I'm sorry to say. And yes, the plain bagel was great, the latte just right with TONS of foam. Am certainly planning to go back for a panini or light dinner sometime. They do have wi-fi, but didn't notice if paying is necessary...if I remember right, it's free with purchase, but don't quote me on that. And that was exactly what I needed on the hell-day of jury duty; so if any of you get summoned to the Salem Court House, I highly recommend you spend some time here.
(4)
Meghan M.
How can I even describe Gulu Gulu Cafe in words? Some of the words would be synonyms with incredible. At first I was completely in love with their gigantic chalkboard menu, and the entire layout of the place. The place has this very laid back, hip vibe. The atmosphere was great. Now, for the wrap. Oh-- that beloved wrap. My Hearty Vegetarian wrap, was phenomenal. I was a bit skeptical when ordering it at first. But, it was out of this world good. When I had finished eating this glorious wrap, the very nice waitress came over and gave us our check. At the bottom of our total was: "Keep Smiling! May The Force Be With You!".
(5)
Shawn B.
TBGT is a fav for lunch.
(4)
Thomas J.
I've been here a few times with friends, mainly for drinks. They have an interesting drink selection that includes absinthe, their prices are what you'd expect and seating is pretty good. They're located right in the center of town, not hard to miss, and have a big staff. Nothing about this place is amazing or great though, just eh. You can come and go and never be left with a good or bad impression. If you find yourself in Salem and want a quick lunch or drink, go for it, but I'd never plan to go here.
(3)
DeeJay H.
This place is the cutest coffee shop under the sun. Great decor, live music, friendly staff and the tastiest sandwiches money can buy. I just enjoyed one of their lovely wraps- roast beef and boisin- served with a fresh salad and chips...it was a lot of bang for a small buck (and in this economy...blah blah blah). They had all sorts of yummy beverages/italian sodas/etc. Can't wait to try it again!
(4)
E S.
I'm gonna go ahead and change my mind about this place. I've ended up back there a few times and while I still can't rave about the food, the service has improved and I appreciate what they add to downtown Salem. It is a very comfortable place to see some live music and there's always some good local art on the walls.
(4)
John P.
Great place to eat, have a great cup of coffee and utilize the free Internet access.
(5)
Erin W.
Food's reasonably good. Great beer list! The service tends to be a little slow, so if you're trying to get in and out, then it might not be a great fit. But, if you're looking for a middle-of-the-day place to hang with your laptop.... there's no better place in Salem. Nice to sit outside in sunny weather. (The Apple and Brie Crepe is yummy.)
(4)
frank p.
ok albeit all i had was a smoothie there this is definetely worth coming back for.. after all, its a cafe and i want a good drink got the banana smoothie.. not only is it dairy free (which is a plus cuz im lactose intolerant) it was thick, creamy and soooo rich.. mmmmmm im definetely going back again, even if its just for the drinks. i was impressed!
(4)
Fiona T.
Lunch on a weekday afternoon -- the place was pretty empty as we arrived after the lunch peak period. I had the turkey panino and my friend had the portobello spinach crepe, both were yummy, especially my sandwich. The waitress was really forthcoming with recommendations. We sat on the patio, and it was really nice.
(5)
Lucien D.
An independent coffee bar in Salem. It has a little bit of everything including a nice selection of drinks. If you go in the daytime it's a nice coffee cafe if you go at night it gets to be more of a bar-like atmosphere. Great place to people watch.
(4)
Amber L.
I love the laid back atmosphere of Gulu-Gulu and the food. The wait time, however, is not so nice. It can take forever to get your food, check, or even for the waitstaff to initially come to your table! I've come here at all different hours and during varying times of business; the long wait never seems to change. On the plus side I enjoy their drink selection -- alcoholic and non-alcoholic and their cheese plate is amazing and VERY filling. The minus two stars really is only because of the wait so if you do not mind a long wait then you will absolutely love this place.
(3)
Alyssa N.
Trekked up to Salem to see a friend of mine DJ here. Much bigger than the Lynn cafe. Staff was a little spacey. One staffer told me the kitchen was closed not long after another staffer served J the dessert crepes he'd ordered. In the end (and after some confusion), I got my traditional Czech crepes, which delighted me very much. These light crepes with a sweet/tart plum filling are a wonderful treat. Good wine/beer list, including some sort of Belgian Kriek that I really like. And have I mentioned the fantastic chocolate chip cookies? Stays open late (especially for Salem?), which is always a good thing, since it's way more chill than a (traditional) bar.
(3)
Ashley L.
Just moved to Salem and Gula Gula is already one of my favorite places. Although I should preface this with... I've only seated myself at the bar so I can't rate the table service. I've been to get work done on my laptop and to have some drinks with friends. The beer is good (although it would be nice to see some lower priced drafts and bottles on the menu), the selection is good and I ordered a sandwich and thought it was pretty awesome. For $7.50 I got a delicious grilled panini (the Istanbul), chips and some greens. Not too shabby considering the sandwich shop down the street charges more than that for just the sandwich. LOVE the atmosphere. Friday night wasn't super packed and the people watching is great. You'll find all types of people here and the wait staff seems to know a lot of them and are super friendly. The live music wasn't spectacular but I've only heard it once so I'm not sure that i can really judge. All in all, decent food prices, very laid back and chill atmosphere and some incredible people watching. Would definitely recommend checking this place out.
(4)
Allison C.
Highly recommend for breakfast and lunch. Their loose leaf tea is divine as are the breakfast sandwiches, muffins, and wraps. Evening entertainment varies. You must wait in line and order your food at the bar, this place fills up quickly, so you may have a long wait. Sometimes entertainment on open mike night is so bad it's painful.
(4)
Walleyecrue W.
Good brew selection- tea, coffee or beer. The ham crepe is a tasty treat after a few hours @ PEM.
(4)
Sarah C.
i have only been here once, however was blown away by one sandwich, that i have to return. i can't recall the name of the sandwich, but it had turkey, pesto, and a lot more garlic. i am a huge fan of garlic. it came with a side of chips, and they have a nice beer selection. i love how they have cereal you can order. the staff seems very friendly, and they play good music here. it seems like a great place to go with friends and have a nice, laid back time. they have some doors outside too which is nice for the spring or fall.
(4)
Jared R.
Interesting menu choices. Food was ok. Lots of beer choices... just be sure to keep an eye on your server. I saw her once for my order and once for my check... I would have liked a few more glasses of water considering the extremely salty food choices I made. The service really knocks 2 stars off my review. Will try again as I always try to look for the best.
(2)
Michael W.
This has to be a short review , but... Cheese Platter can feed 2, great beer selection, SOUPS! STEWS! Friendly atmosphere. Play Bananagrams on Sunday, Last Sunday of the month DRAG KING AND QUEEN show. Great place.
(4)
George A.
This place is my shiz-nit. If you want a nice relaxing night with coffee's, imported beers and wines you should skip Boston and come here.
(5)
Jackie T.
I dropped by the cafe since I had a few hours to wait before meeting up with friends. I didn't expect the food to be so delicious! Great wine list too. A DJ came in during the meal and started jamming. The music was not obtrusive. If I lived in Salem I'd make this place a regular hang out. A hidden gem!
(4)
Michael M.
Service is sometimes spotty, but everyone is friendly and aims to please. The beer selection is really great. It's the place to go for lunch with friends in downtown or to rest and relax after a day of ghost hunting in Salem. I really like that for the panini you can mix and match ingredients and combos from the other sandwiches and make your own thing.
(4)
Jacqueline D.
Every time I go to Gulu-Gulu, I wonder why I keep coming back. The service is not good. Like, at all. I wanted lunch on their patio during the week, and there is a sign outside saying to see a server inside for seating, but then inside, there is no one to greet you, and a sign stating that you should seat yourself. So, confusion. I ended up seating myself outside and had to wait at least 10 minutes before someone came over to offer me a menu. Meanwhile, another waitress had walked by me mulitple times without even saying she'd send my server over. Once my server came, things moved more quickly...this time. I've been in 5 or 6 times since the place opened and have always had a problem with service on some level. It is certainly not a place to go for a in-and-out eating experience. I wasn't crunched for time this week, but still not pleased with the lack of expedient service; while there, I also heard another customer complain about the slow service. That being said, the food is good. I had Roast Beef and Boursin wrap, which was actually quite stellar, and I've also had some of their crepes. Now, throw a crepe in front of me, and I'm a happy little girl, so maybe my judgement is off, but the Apple and Brie crepe is Meg-Ryan-in-a-restaurant worthy, if you will. All the food is a tad on the expensive side, too. Over all, I'll probably go back to Gulu-Gulu, and wonder why I do, until I get my food. I'll just leave plenty of time to have a drawn out dining experience.
(3)
Anne D.
The beer menu is huge and varied... high quality stuff and I'd give the selection 5 stars. The food is pretty good as well. We've tried several different things off the menu and have been pleased with the price and the quality of all of it. What keeps it from getting more stars is that it is SO loud on a weekend night. Obviously, bars are supposed to be loud on a weekend but you literally can't carry on a conversation, even at the top of your lungs. And live music... meh. Sometimes bands are good, sometimes there's a reason they're playing a place that doesn't charge you to listen.
(3)
F S.
Funky place, creative atmosphere. "Ok" food. I had a crepe with turkey and feta. It was dry inside; one side of the crepe was filled with meat and the other-- with some feta and olives, so after eating just plain meet I ended with cheese... My friends ordered sweet crepes and liked them better. Coffee is good, but the tea selection could be richer. The service is just ...'different', and I don't mean it in a good way. I am not sure if they care more about themselves or the customers. Our case was pretty comic. We had a waiter constantly going around our table and openly showing her attractiveness to our husbands. At first it was funny, but after a good half an hour it started to be really annoying for the girls and uncomfortable for men. The ideology of the place, including the artwork on the walls, interior design, free Internet, the music they play is cute and one might find it enough to go back.
(2)
Jen K.
I dont know, I just love this place! It has nice, high celings and is on a cute, centrally located corner in Salem and you can gaze out the windows at the beautifully lit trees and historic buildings/streets. Its very comfortable in here. There are mismatched couches, chairs, etc. Alot of people on laptops. They have board games you can play. Food is eceltic (sp?). Mostly salads and sandwiches but you can also get things like crepes, hummus and beer and cheese pairings. They have open mic nights, movie nights, lots of local talent. Great place to kick back with your friends, very laid back. Of course the star of the place and my favorite thing about it is the BEER! They have enormous chalkboards of all the beers and menus with descriptions of them. They are constantly changing the beers. I have found so many great, obscure beers this way. I am a beer snob so I really appreciate their variety. Just a nice place and Im glad they're in Salem
(4)
Stephanie D.
I first fell in love with Ommegang beer here. I love this place. Paninis are delicious, waitstaff is attentive and friendly but never annoying. Other people in the place are interesting and easy to talk to. I would feel very comfortable hanging out here by myself. I haven't been to the live music or here for dinner, but particularly enjoy Gulu during off-hours, like at 4 o'clock in the afternoon. (I shouldn't even be saying that for fear it would get more crowded at that time.) Highly recommend and am sorry the Lynn location closed.
(5)
Abraham D.
Let me preface this by saying that I have been here no less than 7 times, and my first few experiences were more in the line of 4 stars. On my last three trips the experience was not nearly as favorable. Instead of posting my gripe publicly, I sent an email to Gulu Gulu that I perceived to be constructive and well thought out. It has been about a month and they did not acknowledge my email, which leads me to believe that they have no interest in improving or acknowledging their short comings. The food here is good. Nothing amazing, but certainly tastes good and there are enough options to keep lunch interesting or to grab an appetizer before dinner. The service has always been great. It is a laid back cafe and I do not expect super quick formal service. Everyone that has waited on me has been friendly and eager to assist when something is amiss. Since I go here for the beer, I have no choice but give 2 stars. Sure they have a nice selection but the quality of their taps is questionable. On three separate occasions I was served poor quality draft beer. The first time the beer was flat, and tasted a bit old. It may have been that they had not run the tap for that particular beer but either way it was a let down. The second time they served me a beer chock full of white chunks. I assume this was related to a keg conditioned ale but either way it way it was at an unacceptable level. The third time they served me a beer that was not only warm but it lacked any carbonation whatsoever. It was tepid and totally undrinkable. Do they clean the lines, do they run the lines before the shift, are they keeping old beer on lines? It is hard to say, but my guess is that in an effort to offer some different beers they have forgotten that regardless of having a nice name like Unearthly, if it is not taken care of and served properly it makes a great beer become undrinkable. Thank you to the Owner for a very nice response! I will return soon and hope to improve my rating upon my next visit.
(2)
Randie F.
The first time I went here I was really impressed, but I think I just must have been really hungry because I never felt that way again. Overall, the food's ok, but not great. One time my panini was so overtoasted, the bread was hard as a rock. Another time they messed up my crepe order. Maybe if I was a drinker I'd like this place more, but...I think it's also pretty sucky that they closed their Lynn location as soon as the Salem one started to take off. Salem has enough trendy, restaurants. It was really something special for Lynn.
(3)
Freddie C.
pretty cool place. kind of messy and unorganized. no hostess or bus staff it appeared, even though it was a busy friday afternoon on halloween weekend.. a couple dirty tables were available to sit at but we didnt want to be those people so we sat at the bar. we an app called the " utopenec" that was cold sausages (links) cut in half just sitting in some pickle juice with peperocini's with toast points on the side...really lame! then we each had a panini and split them. the " palermo " which was some italian meats and provolone and the " die berliner" which was black forest ham sauerkraut, red onion and dijon. both paninis were excellent...but everything else was very mediocre.. also the menus were dirty, they were out of the first 3 beers we requested and service was nice but very very slow...would probably give gulu gulu cafe another try
(3)
Shelby M.
The absolute worst service this side of the Mississippi. I've been here a bunch of times - great beer selection and food, but seriously, the WORST service ever. You'll be seated, wait 15 minutes for a bitchy waitress to leave you with a menu, then wait another 20 minutes for her to take your order. Meanwhile, she'll plop herself at the bar and chat with friends while you watch your food sit on the counter and get cold. Go for the atmosphere and beer selection, but if you get a table, get up and take a walk to the bar...don't even bother waiting for someone to take your order.
(2)
Ellen M.
I've been to Gulu-Gulu a couple of times and thought it fun, but had a strange experience there this week. I went into Gulu to get a cup of coffee and was looking at the menu and noticed that the "coffee of the day" was a dark roast coffee. I don't like dark roast coffee and asked if they had mocha coffee or another light roast available. The waitress said they didn't have any other coffee but the dark roast. I told her that I didn't like dark roast coffee and she said I should try it, I again told her I had that particular coffee and didn't like it. She kind of started to have attitude, didn't ask me if I wanted anything else instead.... but stood there. I decided to leave, and I won't be back. Its rather silly to have an establishment that is supposed to be a cafe and only offers one type of coffee, but the larger issue to me was the waitress who was really inept at her job.
(1)
ChianWen T.
I was at Gulu2 Cafe from 9am to 5pm for most of December '07. I worked on my resume there. I had phone interviews there. I tried to sell my soul to the corporate world there. I received news of a job offer there. I even punched a friend who had traveled hundreds and hundreds of miles through one of the worst storms just to see me there. Well, I was too excited over the prospect of being employed! All that was true. I thank Gulu2 for allowing me to abuse their wifi. I thank them for their yummy panini sandwiches and warm tea. I thank them for providing a relaxing space for my job-search. There is live music or one thing or another there most evenings. It's a funky atmosphere (by that I don't mean that it's stinky in anyway). Good place for a drink and people-watch (lots of interesting characters).
(4)
eliza b.
Updated! Like Frank B, I really wanted to love this place. I liked the coffeehouse+ concept as a native NY'r, MA doesn't have enough of them. My first visit and thoughts --the menu was varied, salad was fresh, sandwiches were unique and delish, good prices, nice to have a place to go to with WiFi access. Each night they have something going on, a very decent place to meet friends. Only issue was service, slow to take order, slow to bring the food, didn't ask if I wanted anything else...or the check! Even when I asked the server about dessert, she gave me the menu and never came back to take the order. Thank you from saving me from the calories ;). I am a fan and would recommend to others and will be back. If you go as group (10+) call ahead and see if they can accommodate. Shout out to Steve for reaching out about the service, kudos to you & an extra STAR!
(4)
Bridget D.
This place is quality, as my dear friend Scotty would say. They have tasty coffee concoctions like the russel stover with coconut and chocolate syrups. It is like drinking a warm candy bar. My little sister enjoys the local brews, like the Wachusett Blueberry. You can partake in the yummy appetizers like the three cheese plate with marinated brie or the interesting crepes with blue cheese, walnuts, and apples. I want the painting on the wall that looks like a pack of topps garbage pail kids trading cards! SWEET! But, by far one of the best aspects of the Gulu Gulu in Salem is the local live music. I recently saw Radio Scotvoid and the Curios Allstars. A funky collective of talented musicians led by an amazingly talented DJ and his magical computer. They had a solid jam that flowed so well. I made a new friend in Walnut Da Lyrical Genie who performed some sweet ryhymes. If you happen to be in the Salem area, check them out on May 2. There is also a big screen that shows films in the background behind the bands. One time there was a very strange birthing video. I saw placenta and I was mildly scarred. The Gulu has a good vibe, yummy food and beverages, and is a chill place to hang out with your companions and hear unique music.
(5)
Topher D.
Haven't eaten there, so can't comment on that - but what a wide array of beers/drinks, and godo service - only complaint is it gets super loud when bands are on, but I guess thats the point of bands playing isn't it? Definitely a great place to finish the night at
(4)
Nick D.
My first experience with this place was using it for internet when I first moved to Salem because Comcast sucks at life. It's right down the street from me so I'm there at least once a week. Their specialty coffees are awesome and priced reasonably and the ever-changing art on the walls keeps my little mind amused. The indy-kid-tattoo-crazy staff is always helpful and in a good mood from my experience. The music on the weekends is a good change but they could benefit from turning the speakers down from "eardrum rupture" to something that would allow you to have a conversation with the person next to you without screaming. You can't leave this place without trying the crepes....mmm...crepes.....
(4)
Matthias J.
My wife and I went to the Peabody Essex Museum on Sunday. Since PEM opens at 10:00 am, we decided to have breakfast at Gulu-Gulu first. When we got there at 9:30 am, there was parking on the street right in front of the restaurant and plenty of available tables. By the time we returned from PEM ~11:30, things were much busier. The food was excellent, moderately priced and the place has a nice atmosphere. My wife ordered a cappuccino and a sandwich from the lunch menu and I had a breakfast sandwich on a fresh baked croissant and a Nutella-banana crepe. The crepe was huge and I almost regretted having ordered both items (only until I tasted them). It was a bit too early for beer, but there were a few on the blackboard that made me wish it was later in the day. The great thing is, you can leave the car there and walk less than 10 minutes through the pedestrian zone to the museum. What a find! We'll certainly be back.
(5)
Danielle B.
Nice relaxed atmosphere, had a Eden Crepe which had almonds, honey and apples and it was tasty and came pretty quick. I would have given them 5 stars but i ordered a cappucino & got a latte, really though, who cares, its a nice addition to downtown Salem. They have a great beer selection and wine list which i'd like to come back for somet night soon.
(4)
lee p.
Gulu Gulu is my favorite place for lunch on the North Shore. Especially when it's warm out and you can sit outside and have an iced latte! The service is a bit slow, but it's a great place to people watch the tourists, esp. around that stupid Elizabeth Montgomery statue. I love their bagels and lox plate, their hummus is good, and they make a dangerously good iced latte.
(4)
Anna B.
If I could give 10 stars I would. Amazing food, excellent location, and perfect service. I highly recommend their meat and cheese plate - the marinated brie is delectable. Also, the coffee selection is top notch. Sarah Jean was a friendly and attentive server. Definitely coming back.
(5)
Joanne H.
Just returned home from a visit to Salem. Gulu gulu is wonderful. We were traveling for the first time with our 8 month old puppy. That Meant at we are able to eat in their outdoor dining area. We had lunch there and the food was fresh and great. They made us and our pup feel welcome!
(5)
Hungry C.
We had some wine and hummus. Meh. Not really our kind of scene. We did buy a Bataclan painting though, and that was nice.
(2)
Sara S.
I have very mixed feelings about this place. I absolutely love the fun atmosphere, and the food and drinks are great. However, the service is pretty bad, and that's coming from someone who's not high-maintenance about restaurant service. We went in on a Saturday night. There appeared to be 2 waitresses on. For the entire place. My boyfriend went up to one of them to ask about a table, and was told under no uncertain terms that it was "seat yourself". We stood for about 5-10 minutes, then grabbed the first available table. 20 minutes later, we were still staring at the dirty glasses left by the table's previous occupants. No menus, no "hello", no "sorry, we're understaffed and will be with you soon." We finally left. It was a huge disappointment, and at the end of it, we were still hungry and thirsty. And grumpy.
(2)
Ben L.
I went there without much for expectations but I had heard good things about their other location. Inside it is quite nice with some good local art up on the walls. Oddly it seemed like they got a bit of light inside despite the overcast sky outside and in a way it detracted from my cafe mentality of the place. Their menu was rather eclectic and tough they seemed to have a couple of decent options I would have liked to see a bit more. Part of it may just be my aversion to mustard and pressed sandwiches. I ended up getting a Munich. It fit the bill for the moment but was partially ruined because they got a bit aggressive with the vinaigrette for the side salad so it decided to divide and conquer, part of the bread on my sandwich. They did gain back a bit of redemption by having a good solid cup of coffee and though neither service nor pricing were spectacular bothy somehow seemed to fit the bill.
(4)
Chelsea B.
This place is a blast and a half. I love posting about pubs, so I guess this would count, but it's also so much more! DELICIOUS menu of interesting Czech-inspired food (but also very American-friendly options). Savory crepes are just to die for. The music is interesting (if not always good; sorry, but open-mic is all about variety...), the atmosphere upbeat, funky; the interior fantastically quirky and fun. It just makes you feel good to be here on a Sunday morning or for an early dinner. My one caveat is that service here can be incredibly slow, and inexplicably so. I've sat here on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon with not many other diners and walked out again because no one came to wait on me. Weird.
(4)
Katie P.
Whatever Cola they serve is really good. It comes in a bottle and they give you ice. Really yummy stuff. Off to a good start. I've been here several times for lunch. I live and die for plates of meat and cheese. They have it. I went today with my friend Gabbie. I had a feeling she'd love it. We got a cheese and meat plate that was yummy. We Spanish Themed it and got Chorizo, Manchengo Cheese and Goat chesee, to spread on the bread. The goat cheese used was amazing. YUM! Then we had crepes. Mine was Chicken Cordon Bleu. Not only did it have ham, the added addition of bacon surprised me. How did the crepe maker KNOW i LOVED bacon???? Bacon was not a listed ingredient. YUM!!!!! It needed a slight bit more of the mustard and cheese tho, but I still ate every last bite. Gab-arific had a portabello, spinach and feta crepe that she devoured. It looked and smelled really good. My only slight complaint is that my creme Brulee latte coulda had more syrup in it, it needed more sweet flavor. Maybe cuz it was iced, and before I've had it and it was hot. Oh well, next time I'll add sugah. The atmosphere is funky and fun, it's a cool afternoon for lunch with a friend. There's always interesting people around to observe. I like that in a place.
(4)
Tracey N.
Very cool space, with well-chosen Belgian beers and wifi all in a convenient location. Stopped in with a friend and our kids for tea/coffee & snacks. The brownie was good but small, the cookie was big but stale, and all the choclate sauce drizzled on top just made everything messy. Luckily they were showing old Spiderman cartoons (the kind I watched as a kid!) which helped distract the kiddos because they brought out the food and took ages to bring out drinks. The shift change was blamed, but it overall seems like a loungey, hang-out-all-day so why rush kind of spot. Maybe it's not the best to bring a pair of preschoolers riding high on sugar, but otherwise kids are alright here. I'd definitely give it another try.
(3)
Sarah L.
I have been to this restaurant a few times and really enjoyed it. The atmosphere and food are very unique and interesting. I tried the cheese & meat coalition and loved it. I would definitely recommend this place to my friends!
(4)
Fortuna F.
great vibe here and good eats and an amazing beer selection. food recs: chocolate banana crepes banana bread
(5)
Alicia D.
Hooray, now open in Salem. See my Lynn review.
(4)
Christine R.
While looking for a place in Salem with vegetarian options, I stumbled on this place. The menu looked good so my bf and I checked it out recently. I had the hearty vegetarian wrap. I was very pleased with the sandwich and my bf liked his as well. Our complaint was the service though. There was one waitress on a busy Saturday. She didn't take our special requests in and took forever to serve us. However the good food made up for it.
(4)
PuppyCat K.
Great place. Friendly service, wifi. I had the cheese plate - very yummy. Good place to sit after wandering around the town.
(4)
T. M.
I love Gulu Gulu. Great atmosphere, great beer, great crepes. They also have some very delicious bagels with the fluffiest of cream cheese at breakfast time! This is the sort of place you go to because you want to read a book, look at art, or maybe see some live music (or even a great Modern Millie fashion show!). This is NOT the sort of place you go to if you are in a rush. So if you are going to complain about service you really need to relax your sphincter. The staff here are a lovely group of people who are always friendly. True it is not the speediest service ever, but they don't deserve to get slammed about it since they are not working at McDonald's. The staff makes me feel relaxed, unhurried, and welcome. I also like walking in the door and running into a staff member who not only remembers me, but also remembers what I like to order. THAT to me is service. Hooray to Gulu bringing a bit of style and yumminess to Salem!
(5)
Erik P.
Another place i wish i liked more. I love the beer. I love sitting outside and having a beer off said beer list. I just wish the food wasn't so mediocre. Nothing is awful but most of it is not really worth eating. The most i will get is a cheese and meat platter and even that leaves something to be desired. How about a homemade terrine? How about some stinky washed rind cheeses? None of the selections they have are real bad but i just can't get excited about habenero cheddar and genoa salami! I've read some complaints about the service here but I've never had any trouble, most likely because i tend to stop by at extreme off hours when there is hardly anyone there. The employees have always been prompt and friendly though. Not a bad place to stop for a quick bite and a nice beer(or absinthe!).
(3)
Carissa H.
Food was pretty good, and menu was interesting, but the service was aweful. They ran out of the two things I wanted to order, so when I placed my new order, they messed it up and forgot one of the things that I ordered. It's too bad, because the menu has a lot of potential. But I won't go back because the service was horrible.
(2)
Jennifer H.
My favorite place to go in Salem! Gulu Gulu (german for glug glug) has a great atmosphere, and great art on the walls. The best panini in town, I suggest the"Stockholm". Paired with a friendly wait staff, and an impressive beer list, this is the place to go!
(5)
Jaime F.
I love this place - when I walk in it feels like home. It's got a very laid back artsy feeling. I love the huge windows that look out onto Essex street and the comfy chairs and couches. The food is great - I've never had a bad meal and I love that I can start with coffee and end with beer all in the same place. I am not a hipster or a punk rocker, I do not have any tattoos nor am I an artist - but I feel completely at home at the Gulu Gulu. I'm not sure why people feel that it is too trendy for them - it is what it is. The place attracts a lot of artist types and young people, but that is fine, I've never felt that I wasn't welcomed there, in fact, conversely, I always feel that the wait staff and customers are friendly.
(5)
K W.
I have been to this cafe twice, first coffee to go and it was fine. I liked the coolness of the place so I visited for the second time with my husband and son.... It was not too busy but when we got our latte, both of our cups were sitting in a good amount of coffee in a saucer, when I lifted the cup it dripped all over my top.... it was not hot enough, like someone did not want to spend much time steam the milk.... I ordered slice of cake which took about 20 minutes to arrive. My coffee got really cold by the time I got it. My husband ordered crape which never came, after 30 minutes of waiting, my son's got forgotten. When we got so tired of waiting, the man behind the counter said "ah, I was just going to work on it" after 30 minutes?? They really did not want to take the charge for the crape off the bill either. Took two complaints. We are not such a hard people to please, but don't want to pay for food we never got and lousy service. We drove over an hour to get there, because it was such a neat place, we will not go back again, maybe we are not "hip" enough people to deserve a decent service. They never apologize either.... :( We left being a bit angry. By the way, this was in Salem store.
(1)
T R.
love it! it is the perfect place to go. food is wonderful. best atmosphere. the only complaint i have is that since they have events nightly at 8, you really need to finish dinner by then if you want to be able to talk without loud music in the background. So if it is anytime past 7:30 we do not go to eat dinner there, because we know we will have to rush to avoid having our conversation drowned out. I wish they started their events at 8:30 or 9, just to give some extra time to talk.
(5)
amy f.
After a great day hanging around Rockport, my boyfriend and I swung through Salem for lunch. Serendipitously, we parked right next to the Gulu Gulu and decided to check it out. The space is open and inviting with cool high ceilings, funky art and comfy couches. We opted to sit at the bar and had the pleasure of chatting with the co-owners of this great spot--really great people, and amazing service. They have an eclectic beer selection (Golden Monkey--Mmmm!), and a sandwich menu that was hard to choose from. Our lunch was delicious, and we couldn't help but share a giant cookie that the owner insisted on warming up for us for dessert. My only wish is that they'd open a location in Boston!
(5)
Jennifer R.
Great food & drinks, haven't been let down yet! However it can get a bit noisy on live music nights! friendly staff and pretty cool artwork on the walls.....leading a bit towards the hipster scene so please do pull back a little!
(4)
Nick D.
If you love beer, different beer, good beer then you probably should check this place out. With few execptions, I find that bars in the beverly/salem area suck. They all serve mostly poor quality beer at high prices, the atmosphere is lame (unless you dig cover charges, pop music and axe body spray) and food is only worth in if you are in the bag. Gulu is a different place, anything goes. The owners are almost always there (they live upstairs) and they are great for conversation. If you need advice on what to order, just ask, the wait staff and owners are glad to offer. As for the menu, they just redid it and I havent eaten there yet. As for drink, the only big name beers are Sierra Nevada and Dogfish Head (both are excelent). They have had the Dogfish Head on tap as well. all the other beers are obscure. Most are small craft brewers in the US and the rest are imports from the EU. As for the price, any thing on draft is comprible to domestic brew (5-7 dollars), bottled being 5-15 dollars. The higher priced beers are normally imports or large bottles. Coffee is great here for the late night boost.
(4)
Corey L.
Stopped in on a Thursday night with a group of friends before a movie. Place has definite character. While we were there, they were playing Black Sabbath songs, with local art on the walls. We were told to grab a table, which we did. No server for at least the first 10 minutes. As we were waiting for a movie, this was annoying. The dude wandering around cleaning tables and doing random things ended up being our server - I found this out by asking him if we had a server. Which he claimed to be. I started with a hot toddy - called an oooooooohh something. It was warm with brandy, cider, stuff in it - cinnamon stick and I think cloves - that I also ate. It wasn't bad - my girlfriend really liked it. I woulda liked a bit more flavor to it. My girlfriend and I shared a cranberry salad, which was good - decent size and good mixture of ingredients, especially if you like cheese. It was deluged in cheese. My girlfriend got a strawberry smoothie with pineapple vodka. It was fine - tasted like good amount of liquor. No milk or ice cream - just strawberries and ice. I got the Munich sandwich, which came with a small salad and chips. The chips were kettle chips and the salad was nice, with a tasty dressing. The sandwich itself was grilled with rare beef and some Dijon mustard that had a horseradishy spice to it. Generally it was blander than I expected. I woulda liked more Dijon mustard in it - and more evenly distributed. We then finished up with a S'mores crepe. I was SUPER excited - I love S'mores (boy scout growing up) and am always disappointed by s'mores flavored stuff as it never tastes like s'mores - you need the melty marshmallows and chocolate. So this came melty and I was super excited. When it came, I quickly became very disappointed. It was a very well done crepe (read: too crispy and dry) with pieces of graham cracker inside and chocolate. There were also chocolate chips on top and whipped cream along the edge. No marshmallows. And too little chocolate in general. This coulda been really good and it really just wasn't. I really want to like this place - I go in trying to like it, but both the service and food keep stopping me. I'll likely try again and hopefully it will be better.
(3)
Amanda J.
Came here with friends on a holiday weekend. The place was quite busy and so there was a wait. Upon entering I really loved the atmosphere in the place. But since they were so busy the service was incredibly slow. It took at least 15 minutes to get our drinks. But they did have a great selection of their drink menu. A couple of us had build your own crepes and they were so delicious! There are so many fillings to choose from, both sweet and savory. I really felt like they offered every filling I could possibly want. All sorts of cheeses, vegetables, meats, and dressings for the savory selections. I would definitely come back here, but perhaps when it was a little less crowded! I think our waitress in particular just seemed a bit clueless.
(4)
Jeanette W.
Four stars for their beer selection. I wasn't impressed with the food. There isn't a wide range of food options if you aren't there for breakfast. I only went twice at night to listen to music. This spot is definitely best for breakfast or lunch. Their vegetable soup was more like blended veggies, very chunky and not very soup like, very thick.
(4)
Nancy F.
Very good! We tried the patsy, terrific! The Eden. A crepe with fruit, very tasty. But I should have chosen something more savory. The oinkers was awesome. It passed the Chuckie review. He thought it was perfect. Great breakfast!!!! Cary was awesome and fun.
(4)
Katie O.
Went there on an open mic night and ordered the Bagel w/ Lox. Absolutely delicious, and they didn't skimp on anything. I did have to order it from the bar in order to get service, but I kinda figured that would be the case based on other reviews. Food came out quickly, and the beer selection was great! Neat little vibe, too.
(3)
Kylie D.
Great little spot in a lovely part of Salem. Great for hipster families with kids (I say that with love!), singles, whomever. Service was excellent! Our server brought a sliced banana for my friend's daughter on a rustic-looking cutting board instead of just throwing it in a bowl. Classy! My crepe was good and since I don't eat a lot of crepes, I can only say that I enjoyed it and that all the ingredients were fresh and yummy. Overall a great place, especially on a nice day - outside seating near the square is charming.
(4)
Bradley L.
Visited Salem last night and stopped into Gulu Gulu in search of some slightly "modern" cafe fare. Seeing how it looked like a hip place, crawling with tatted folks with septums, I assumed Gulu Gulu would at least have an inventive menu to attract pretentious foodies. Upon first inspection of the menu I was hugely dissapointed. My only choices for a filling meal were crepes and sandwiches. Oh well, it's my fault for assuming they would at least have burgers or something. As I already ordered a beer I figured I would just stay and try out some of their food. I ordered the "soup of the day" which was, of course, clam chowder. It arrived in a small bowl, resting upon a bed of mixed greens on an extra large plate... why was my bowl of soup on a bed of mixed greens? Super cheesy. To get back to the soup itself... It was definitely Blount soup from a bag. Oh well. I also tried their take on a charcuterie plate. I got the French boursin cheese, the cranberry wensleydale and "their" famous Ghost pepper salami. The plate arrived with a ramekin of the boursin, haggardly sliced pieces of salami and the wensleydale resting on a bed of lettuce. Pointless plate garnish again..Oh well.. The plate was also served with the same bread that came with my blount clam chowder. I put their in quotations because most people dont realize they get their meat and cheese from some major distributor like Sam Wainer or US Foods. Lastly i tried the "Munich" panini. Rare roast beef, swiss cheese, dijon and dill pickle. When it arrived to the table i noticed that the bread my sandwich was on was the same bread from the soup and the cheese plate... do they literally only carry this one loaf of white bread? The sandwich itself was boring, had no flavor and my dill pickle was just those flimsy pickle chips you'd get on a whopper. Pros: Cozy atmosphere and the beer list is actually very good. I had the Founders Dark Penance black IPA. An ample serving for only 5 bucks. Go for the bar, stay away from the food.
(2)
Daniel H.
Ordered a meal and waited 20 minutes before being told wasn't available. Served cold coffee too
(1)
Michael M.
Though I've been a regular for years now, it is with recent frustration that I've finally succumbed to writing this less than stellar review. In fact I feel it is my obligation to do so, in hopes that something may give, and standards may change. The Gulu Gulu has always provided a great menu, a vast beer selection, and a perfect atmosphere. This rings true especially for local artists within the community. It's perfect to inhabit on any given day no matter the season. And though the employees are enjoyable in their own right, I find the establishments overall service level lackluster at best. With few exceptions it never seems as though any employee, no matter how seasoned a veteran, possesses a sense of urgency when serving the customer. This a trait I know first hand all too well, and have forgiven one too many times. Twice this week staff have failed in providing me with what I consider a proper level of service and attention. The first failure took place while dining at the bar for lunch. I was only one of two patrons inhabiting the bar. And yet It took a solid 25 mins to order lunch. Upon completion of my meal both bartenders neglected to check in with me. Chatting away, careless and fancy free they waltzed back and forth in front of me several times. All the while awaiting an opportunity to ask for my bill. Something that never presented itself. A an equally kind and diligent floor waitress whose name was Natalie eventually noticed something wrong. It was she that ended up presenting me with my bill without me even having to ask. Irritated but only slightly I let it slide and left to resume my day. But it was last evening when I called to place a take out order - was placed on hold, all the while driving from the N. Shore Mall to the YMCA (16 mins in traffic) where I parked my car, exited, and walked into the restaurant STILL ON HOLD awaiting my order to be had that iced this already bitter cake. Knowing the bar staff personally seemed to warrant a sigh of relief on their part. Jovially playing it off as a mistake, they verbalized their relief when learning it was ONLY me. Am I not a customer? Despite how often I frequent the establishment, or how well you know me as a person, do I not deserve the same service and respect that I'd get elsewhere? Does the Gulu Gulu feel invincible or are they just that apathetic about how their customers feel? Whatever their mentality I've chosen to bring my business elsewhere. Perhaps I'll enjoy my coffee from a local bakery and my lunch from the newly established Ugly Mug.
(2)
CJ B.
All the right moves: -Welcomes dogs -Wait staff with funky outfits -Lots of non natural hair colors in the kitchen -Guy in motorcycle jacket at the bar writing emails -Mismatched tables and chairs -Pink Floyd on the sound system BUT unfortunately the food is pretty pedestrian. Even though they had interesting names, our sandwiches were corporate cold cuts on uninspired bread with a very small salad and a few chips. And the advertised Lentil Soup turned out to be beef barley!
(3)
Jenn S.
Just stopped by for a cup of coffee so this will be short but I wanted to comment on how nice the staff was. We walked up to the little to-go counter on the left and ordered coffee and hot tea. Tasted great and loved the service!
(4)
Joanna L.
Probably one of Salem's coolest places to hang out. Mostly a cafe with sandwiches, but known for good charcuterie boards. Cheese and meat platters are pick-your-own, and reasonable in price. For two people, two cheeses and meats should be enough for sharing. This place is a hangout and a snack joint - don't come here with the mindset of getting a great MEAL. The fun is in the linger, and the lazing. They have board games and good live entertainment on weekends. It's funky, spunky, and indie, and foodie. Like a coffee shop - but with meats and cheeses. Staff is nice and upbeat, kinda like baristas. A definite try for locals, or people looking to while away a few hours in town.
(4)
Katie M.
My gluten free wrap was half the size of the regular wraps and 50 cents more. Service was mediocre, not great. Very good selection of beers and other beverages including cider! Food was good, but felt ripped off on the gf option.
(3)
Danna D.
I really love this place. The food and drinks have always been good, and it is a great place to hang out for a bit. Everyone is very friendly, and the owner is awesome as well. I like the whole feel of the place, and the live music is pretty cool. I don't want to knock them down a start for this (and I wont) because it is an awesome place, but the service kind of sucks overall. I've been there quite a few times, and each time I have to flag down someone on the waitstaff to get a refill of coffee or anything else. I could literally sit there for 30 minutes after finishing my coffee without anyone checking up to see how I'm doing. Mind you, the place could be completely empty, and I still get that same exact service.
(5)
Janna H.
Great atmosphere! That was definitely the best part for me. The servers were nice and the food choices are great. They even had fruit beers on tap! Very eclectic feel all around. The one major downside was that the entire back area where the bathrooms are located smelled really bad, as if they mopped the area with a sour mop. It's impossible to miss the smell, so I'm very disappointed that it was left that way.
(3)
Travis S.
My wife and I were only in Salem for one night and still had two of our meals here. Great sandwiches, great beer selection, really nice staff, and a really cool vibe. If I lived anywhere nearby I would certainly be a regular. Fantastic spot.
(5)
Serena H.
Honestly, I really enjoy the atmosphere of this place. Their coffee isn't bad and they have an admittedly impressive selection of beer. However I have never once, in the 6 or 7 times I've been forced to go there, received even an approximation of mediocre service. The waitresses are always nowhere to be found, the bill is always elusive (despite asking for it twice or thrice) and the food has never come out anything short of 30 minutes. It's a good thing the cafe serves mostly cold food because if they had to be responsible for hot food who knows what may happen. I cannot justify spending this much on a sandwich or a salad just to be treated like a burden to the wait staff. I'm puzzled at the excellent reviews this place enjoys. I won't be giving it anymore chances. Sorry!
(1)
Chris S.
There was literally nothing on the menu for gluten intolerance for a Sunday brunch the one time I attempted to eat here. Bored hipsters is right.
(1)
Liliya M.
This place is my go to spot when visiting Salem. The servers are always friendly, the seating is perfect (couches for coffee, high stools for drinks, tables for meals), and they have a sweet menu with pretty reasonable pricing. * Tip: Though their crepes are super tasty, I suggest going with a sandwich if you are looking for something more filling. *
(4)
Narcissus A.
I tried so hard to like this place but it's just not happening.... I went there 4 times total and to be honest if rather sit by the lobster shanty than this place Service is constantly slow and kind of irresponsible. I waited for my server for over 30 minutes twice and they werent even that busy. The crowd is a veey weird mixture of people and the place just gives me a weird vibe overall. I think it's the service. Waiters look constantly bored and kind of out of place and sync with their surroundings. Sorry Gulu Gulu.... I tried... maybe it's just not for me :)
(2)
Chris B.
My girlfriend and I just stopped in while visiting Salem for the weekend. I got the tbgt wrap and it was a knockout. Great food, super quick wait, awesome music, and right across the street from the fair! Definitely will come back!
(5)
Joe M.
Annie you rock!!!!! Definitely a must stop when your in Salem, mass. The ambience is funky. Lots of painting of dogs and superhero action figures. I sat on the couch and had a 360 view of the entire place. For starters the Kopanisti and Utopenee is a light appetizer. Enjoy.
(5)
Iris B.
great helpful friendly staff, good food selections, good music, cool atmosphere.. what's not to like? I came in for lunch on a recent visit to Salem (which is a cool city btw) and what I ordered was really yummy plus they have good options for veggie heads out there :)
(4)
Paulina P.
This is a quaint and whimsical pace with good food and great drinks. Perfect rest stop while exploring the city.
(4)
Alex K.
Gulu Gulu gets a five-star review relative to the rest of the North Shore. Having moved from the West Coast, this is exactly the kind of place I miss having: Where one of us can have a cup of coffee and the other a glass of wine, where I can get some work done or shut the laptop and enjoy a slow conversation. The coffee is good, the food is not bad, the vibe is great.
(5)
K H.
Love it here! Great coffee & conversation place. Nice lunch and snacks! of course, Amazing coffee
(4)
Kelly R.
I have been stalking the Gulu Gulu for the better part of the last year and finally found an opportunity to try them out. My husband has been a law student the last 3 years and finding time to go out and relax doesn't happen often. There is a quote/descriptive on their menu that says "The Gulu Gulu Cafe is a bohemian outpost..." And I couldn't have said it any better myself. This gem of an outpost was a wonderful escape from the ordinary and a light in our day! Warm and cozy with an air of relaxation and ambiance, we made our way to the bar. There we were warmly greeted and handed menus while we took in the bountiful bar selection. A nice variety of beers, both local, micro, and international (esp. Czech & Belgian). The menu was eclectic, generous, and delicious. We settled on sharing their Barcelona Panini (smoked turkey & Manchego cheese) which was well portioned with a small green salad and Cape Cod chips. It hit the spot! We paired the sandwich with a beer, myself a stout, himself a Trappist ale. To top off our impromptu lunch we were delighted to see that they offered French Press, so we indulged. Perfect spot to relax and unwind while treating yourself to a great atmosphere with delicious food! The Gulu was wonderfully creative and there were folks of all ages enjoying themselves. Truly an enclave worthy of escape. We look forward to escaping there again soon!
(4)
Sabrina S.
LOVE GULU'S such a unique hotspot to check out when you go to salem! Thank god I live 10 minutes away from gulu's, I introduce all my friends to this place and play board games and eat good snacks! The Crepes are to DIE for, literally so perfect! I can't forget to mention that the service there is great!
(4)
Carrie H.
I am hooked! Spent the weekend before Halloween up in Salem and this place is in walking distance from our hotel. We ate breakfast, lunch, dinner and in-betweens there. I HEART THIS PLACE!!! Cappuccino drinkers you will bask in its wonderfulness!!! It's big, it's delightful and I could not stop drinking them. Latte's just as good. We loved the sandwiches, the salads, the crepes with bananas and nutella were out of this world. We were there on the busiest week of the year and the service was great. I even hunted down the owner and told him how much I loved this place. Not sure what previous reviews are talking about "hipsters" I'm a 57 year old woman and I don't give a ___ who I'm eating "around" If the food is good and the price is good and the location is good. Stop your whining!!
(5)
Vickie W.
Really awesome place! Waitstaff is attentive and helpful! Fannnntastic beer selection, standard fare annnd imports, something for everyone here!
(4)
Valerie N.
First time I went here, I got an awesome chicken sandwich, which was, again, awesome! However, best part was the side salad, whatever that red dressing is that they use is scrumptious! Another time I came by during the winter for hot apple cider, it was the best I've ever had. Just waiting for the cold weather to set in again so I can go back for another. The atmosphere is great, relaxed and friendly. The fact that they also display the works of local artists and let local bands play there makes it even better. A great little restaurant / bar, if you're visiting salem this place is definitely worth it!
(4)
Benjamin L.
The Gulu (as we call it) is a uniquely awesome place. The atmosphere isn't that of a bar or cafe. I feel like it's more like a lounge. Solid beer selection and great tea and coffee to boot. The food and mixed drinks are also pretty tasty. The people who come here range from seniors to toddlers but mostly it seems to be young people in their 20s and 30s with their friends. It's my default place to meet up with pals in Salem!
(5)
Crystal B.
Banana bread=A+. They are even nice enough to make me Iced Chai Lattes in the summer!
(4)
Jonathan E.
neat little place. we had brunch here on Christmas Eve. the food was pretty good, but seemed to be in smaller quantities than i expected.
(3)
Kevin D.
The wife and I spend a bunch of time in Salem and their is no question in either of our minds that Gulu Gulu is the best spot in town. Awesome beer list, great food, great vibe, dog friendly, nice outdoor seating, good music and entertainment, and a great vibe (did I already say that?). Also, don't miss the breakfast. Awesome breakfast sandwiches (especially the one with the ghost pepper salami). We love them so much we had them cater the breakfast after our wedding (bagels, muffins, coffee, juices) and they were great.
(5)
Leesha Z.
I don't really understand why this place is so hyped up. I gave this place two chances and both were pretty disappointing. First visit was on a Wednesday night. I came up to the bar during a very busy open mic night. I asked if they could make me a French 75 and the guy behind the bad replied with "no we can't." I stared at him, pretty confused and asked why. He proceeded to tell me they don't have a full liquor license and all that. I said we were all set and left. I probably would've ordered a glass or wine or something if he hadn't been so rude. Second visit, it was pretty late and I was hungry and I knew they served food late so we decided to give it a second try. We came in on a Monday, got seated right away by a friendly waitress and looked over the menus. My boyfriend and I decided to order a few dessert "cocktails". The Milky Way one and the almond joy. Both sounded pretty good. For good, I got a turkey tomato and moz crepe. We got our drinks and wow way too sweet. We both could barely finish. In fact, I couldn't even get past drinking a quarter or it. Yuck. And way too overpriced for what it is. $10 each. I felt robbed. The crepe wasn't bad, but nothing special. Everything in it seemed fresh but it didn't blow my mind. There's plenty of other places in Salem is rather to than here. Sorry.
(2)
CE D.
I find the awful reviews of this place & the "awful hipster staff" hilarious and many of them sound like they were written by awful hipsters themselves. I'm no fan of the bearded skinny pant wearing crowd but if my choices are between hipsters in flannel and New England rednecks in jerseys and turtlenecks, I prefer the hipster joints because they have at least heard of serving a vegetable. I enjoyed my first visit here for breakfast so much that I returned later that night it coffee and drinks and then again for breakfast the next morning. The crêpes were delicious and the drink selections were on point--great beers and nice coffee options. The service was less efficient (but not bad) than I would maybe have liked at some points but to be honest as a NYer I find most places outside of my area slow anyway. One thing that irked me was that you cannot get a freaking glass of water in this joint OR anywhere else in Salem without having to practically beg for it. What the heck?! Gulu Gulu was a cute spot where we were able to bring our dog and not very expensive. If/when in Salem again we will once again stop in!
(4)
Richard D.
I've been here a few times and love Gulu's electric vibe.
(5)
Mark L.
I have been here a number of times for drinks. It is always a pleasant atmosphere with a very good selection of beer. This is the first time I have been for breakfast. The coffee is good. The kitchen is a bit slow but the waitstaff is attentive and the food is well worth the wait.
(4)
Derek W.
This review is for breakfast. Not really impressed. Service was arduously slow. I ordered the traditional crepe with ham. It was wicked dry, without much flavor at all. Coffee was acceptable. The inside of this place is pretty hipster looking and funky.
(3)
Dave L.
Wow, Yelp really hit a home run on this one. We came to the Salem Witch Museum in the morning and then spent about an hour letting our boys play in the Salem Common. When it was time for lunch, I looked at Yelp and found Gulu Gulu Cafe. This place is funky and fun and cool and has really good food. It is located in a beautiful little square in downtown Salem, which has a funky, fun, and cool vibe to it. We came at lunch time on a Sunday. The restaurant was busy, but we were seated right away. They have a bar that serves coffee and tea. They also have a very good craft beer list that emphasizes local brews. I ordered a charcuterie plate and a Mediterranean salad to split with my wife. The salad was excellent - fresh, very little dressing so the taste of the veggies and feta came through. The meat and cheese on my charcuterie plate was very good. It was served with a good sized plate of toasted French bread. The goat cheese I ordered was very mild and the salami and hot cappicola were great. The iced tea was also very good. I also ate some of my son's hummus plate. The hummus was served with a generous portion of veggies - celery, carrots, cucumbers - and pita. The hummus was pretty mild. Service here was decent. Our server looked like a surf dude. He was okay, but kind of slow. Overall, the food was reasonably priced for the amount and quality. If I lived in the Salem area, this would probably be one of my favorites. The only reason I am not giving five stars is the slow service and kitchen.
(4)
Nicole S.
Went to Gulu Gulu tonight for a late meal with our kids. Ate outside and had fun, nice feel. Had theeeee best vanilla latte ever! Props to the guy who made my drink. Had the veggie crepe. A little too much goat cheese, but otherwise good. Husband had a turkey panini. It had apple butter and he liked the combo. Kids had breakfast sandwiches, which they both liked. Even better was the chocolate milk, very chocolatey, which they loved! We all rated the meal on a scale of 1 to 10, and the average was an 8.5. Which is good for us. Btw, the meal cost us $38.00, which was the most inexpensive meal we've had all week! And, our waitress was very nice. A great experience!
(4)
Simon Z.
Love this place as much as I can love a hipster retreat. Gulu keeps me coming back for three things: Good beer Good Panini's Good coffee
(5)
Sara F.
This is probably my favorite place ever for drinks, music, and enjoying the company of good people. It is not my favorite place for food. I love the bands that play here. They are always super unique but good. Funky and fun music that hipstets of all ages can enjoy. I love the environment. The tables and chairs are miss matched, there is contemporary art on the walls, there are games to play, and everyone in the cafe looks like they could be my friend. I just feel so happy and at home! This is the kind of place I want to come to on my birthday! The drinks are great! Huge selection of beer! I just don't really care for anything on the menu. I want to like the food, but it is just not for me. Maybe I am choosing the wrong things? I will continue to try items on the menu, hoping to find something I'll love.
(4)
Allison W.
Love it! First of all, they have adorable pugs and Boston terriers on their door and glassware. Winning me over already. And an outdoor patio! Then their food was interesting and delicious. I had a smoked turkey panini, with havarti cheese, arugula, dijon mustard, and apple butter. Awesome flavor combination, and a big sandwich. I also had an americano and their espresso was quite good. They have a make-your-own crepe option with a very wide variety of nice cheeses, veggies, meats, and sauces, as well as sweet crepes. For dessert, I tried the blueberry/walnut/brie crepe, which was not that good... The brie was just in chunks unevenly hidden in the crepe, and the blueberries were whole (delish) but the drawback was that they kept falling out. The brie should have been melted more, which would have held the blueberries down. It was meh. Service was also extremely slow, but my overall rating is still a 4 for the cute decor and nice outdoor seating, and mostly great food. Would def go back.
(4)
Stefanie H.
Favorite place in Salem! Great beer selection, delicious food and great live music/entertainment. Be prepared to stay a while!
(5)
Erik S.
One of the best spots on the North Shore for a wide selection on tap! Their food leaves something to be desired, though I can't say I've had everything on their menu yet. I typically get pizza next door at Flying Saucer and then head to Gulu-Gulu for drinks and some live music.
(4)
Justin K.
My favorite place to work long hours and people watch fascinating people. When sipping coffee gets old I switch to beer without moving seats!
(4)
Mike M.
Food is great but the business is in serious need of introspection. The service here is absolute garbage. Servers are impossibly slow and marvelously inattentive. They never have 3/4 of the alcohol on their menu in stock. Poorly managed and lazy to a fault. Doubt I'll be back.
(2)
Tiffany G.
My husband and I were in Salem for 4 days and this place was the first place we went to eat, we returned 4 times. The first night I ordered the Istanbul and my husband got the Nice, for desert we had a s'mores crepe that we shared, we were so impressed we ate there again the next day I had the nice and he had the chicken cordon bleu crepe, we came back again for breakfast the next two mornings, we can't say enough good things about the food, the staff, and the atmosphere, we felt completely at home. I wish we lived near there we would be there at least 3 nights a week.
(5)
Kamila P.
best breakfast sandwich ever!!!! the spinwich is so legit!
(5)
Justina P.
Very tasty meals that are fresh and presented lovely. Very nice options; from a verity of teas to fresh made sandwiches with goat cheese. Yum!! Quiet-ish and nice calm vide. (:
(4)
William D.
You refused to make a spinwich on a Sunday despite all the ingredients for it being on the menu in other items and the means to prepare it being available. Odd for an otherwise welcoming and pleasant place. This was our last day on the north shore and we went out of our way to come back here.
(4)
Chris L.
I hate yelp. I hate everything about it because on estimate I'd say about 85% of the people who write bad reviews should not be saying anything at all. If someone has something to say about something that went horribly wrong, let a manager know while you're there so they can fix it, rather than going home all pissed off and tearing the place apart. That being said, i'm no expert, but i know the industry, and this place is awesome. Everything about it is great. Respect for trying to divert from the norm and have people experiment with different foods and flavors and encouraging it. It is a great place to sit and enjoy the day and eat some great food. This place is what a caffe is all about. The prices are also extremely resonable for the high quality food they put out. Again, boo too all who say the service is bad or whatever. This isn't a "get em in get em out" kinda place, and the service reflects that perfectly. If you're looking for that, go to McDonalds.
(5)
Natalie C.
Confused as to why this place is so highly rated by everyone. The food was decent but plain. The menu doesn't boast anything new or exciting. I got the vegetarian breakfast sandwich and it was greasy and average. The service was truly terrible. It took 20 minutes to get a cup of house blend coffee and I never the cup of water I asked for. I wouldn't recommend this place.
(2)
Juanita D.
This is the cutest little coffee/creperie/sandwich shop in alllll of Salem! While traveling around the Boston area we made a quick day trip to Salem, MA. My friend decided to take me to this local spot that she said was too cute to be true. Great little spot to hang out with your friends or talk to some interesting people. Woodsy kinda feel inside, board games, very open area in little shopping area of town & close to the Salem Witch Museum. Awesome Crepes & the hot chocolate is tooooo die for! You MUST try this place otu!
(5)
Cheri S.
A fun beatnik type of cafe with a good variety of food for all. Try the mack 'n cheese - it's definitely worth it. Good selection of house cocktails and beer on tap. We enjoyed a late night meal, so it was pretty dark (as in not much light) and there was musical entertainment which varies nightly. The servers were quirky, but attentive attentive.
(4)
Epi I.
Had wine and appetizers. Wine was fine. Had their bruschetta. Sadly to say, the bread was not toasted and on the bread was only canned tomato and a couple of pieces of basil w/a little bit of olive oil. We should've returned it but we thought we'd just enjoy the afternoon and our wine. Then, there was a little group sitting next to us. They kept having someone come over and check on them while we sat there without anyone asking us if the bruschetta was ok or if we wanted another drink. I ended up flagging one of the servers to ask for water. I gave them the dirty look for ignoring us. Then I had to walk inside the cafe to get a server to bring us our check. TERRIBLE SERVICE HERE. MAYBE IT'S COMMON HERE IN SALEM TO GIVE BAD SERVICE TO VISITORS. I wish Yelp allowed minus stars. I'd give Gulu Gulu Cafe MINUS 5! I'll never visit this cafe again.
(1)
Gypsy M.
On my most recent visit I was horrified to see if they had dressed up the iconic bulldog painting on the window in what seemed to be a mockery of Native American cultural costume. When I told the worker that as a Native American customer I felt alienated and that it was racist I was met with sarcasm and scorn. I heard that eventually they removed it due to increased pressure and complaints, but I don't want to dine in a place where the atmosphere is one of racism.
(1)
Mikhail M.
Such a cute place! I loved the quirky style of this authentically Boston themed cafe. Spacious and bright, eating brunch at Gulu Gulu feels like a Sunday morning with friends and faming. The veggie crepe was delicious and I can also recommended the Berry and Nice if you are looking for something sweet.
(5)
Sarah M.
Love the atmosphere and the beer selection. The salmon/lettuce wraps are delicious, as are the crepes. (I recommend the Hungarian one with the plum jam). The service can be a bit slow -- that's the main thing I'd change.
(4)
Tulan K.
This is the best place to have some good beer. The cheese and meat plates are delicious. I specially loved their Ghost pepper , cilantro and tequila infused salami. It is a loud place with bands playing there and also sort of sit yourself place. Sandwiches were ok since the bread was too hard and actually hurt when you bite in but i think this place is def worth it for its cheese and meats.
(5)
Lil M.
I'd say 3.5 stars. Its in a great spot in Salem. The waiters are busy, and there was a long wait for food and drinks and the check. So, needeless extra time spent at the Gulu Gulu, which I would name sort of a hipster bistro. The meat & cheese plate was great. The coffee was so-so and the crepes were nothing to write home about.
(3)
Amy H.
Saturday night in Salem during October is no joke. Every restaurant was packed, the streets were packed, and the one place that could seat us didn't appear to have any waitstaff working. We put our name in at Gulu Gulu, because a 30-min wait was the best yet, and went to the bar to have drinks while we waited. Luckily we found seats at the bar, so we just sat there and ordered food. Everything was delicious! Crepes, wraps, and sandwiches were super fresh and tasty, and since we were sitting at the bar, we could watch the cooks work. The beer selection is fantastic (Southern Tier Pumpkin ftw), and the bartenders were helpful with suggestions. A great, cozy, funky local spot that I will definitely visit again. My friends who stayed in Salem went back the next morning for breakfast. :)
(5)
Lisa L.
I thought the entertainment was great first time going there I noticed it gets pretty crowded. You go up to the bar to order your food, the staff was diligent and polite ,though I only got a coffee and a parfait I thought the food was great Ive had many parfaits but theres was the best! I Plan to go back and try something else and see more great performances, great vibes.
Hipster haven. I used to adore this place. It's a great place to go and spend some time playing games, hanging out with friends, listening to local music, and grabbing a drink. I really loved this place when their open mic nights first started. In my opinion, it's gone down hill. The food is pretty good, but I always went for the deserts! They've changed that portion of the menu so many times in the past few years, all my favorites are gone. And now it's weird. Good luck trying to get a table when there is live entertainment or during tourist season. (Anytime.) Open Mic Night...forget it. Jeff and Brian are great hosts! However the talent pool has changed. It's all old hipsters playing their pan flutes and singing cover songs. There seem to be a lot of inside jokes and "Gulu celebrities" that are made a big deal about but not everyone knows/understands. I miss the old days Gulu...I really do.
(3)
Clarke B.
We live out of the area, but every time we are in Salem, we come here. It's, fan friggan tastic!!!!
(5)
Lisa C.
One of my favs in Salem. I haven't tried all the food on the menu (b/c I don't eat a lot of things) but I love what I do get and my friends have always been happy with their selections. Great coffee. Staff are always friendly. I haven't had any of the frustrations that some other reviewers have had and I'm there pretty often, mostly during the day time.
(4)
chris b.
Great vibe to this place. Plenty of seating and ample bar space if you come in "solo" or with just a few friends. Their "Mind Sweeper" caffeinated beverage does the job nicely if you need a pick-me-up. I had a Smoked Turkey, Bacon, and Avocado wrap that was prepared just the way I like it. If you join their "Gulu Gulu" club (not sure how easy that is to get into) you get to drink your beer from an elaborate chalice.
(5)
Joeli G.
If you can take eating around a plethora of Hipsters without gagging, then you could come here and get a sandwich and a beer. It's pricy for what it is and the waitstaff hipsters are....hipsters....so it's hit or miss on service. Food is fresh though and beer is draft. Coffee isn't too bad either and they have a tea menu (of course! #%*+ hipsters). I despise that people take up entire tables to click away on their computer machines while they drink an entire pot of tea themselves; but that's just me. Not my favorite place or one I frequent as a local but good for a passer by that wants to soak up a piece of Salem's diverse scene and grab a bite to eat. Please don't feed the hipsters.
Nice spot in town. Good food, somewhat pretentious, although it appears trendy for young hipsters. Service was good, but we noticed that the manager was sitting at the counter behind us, so that may have played a role in the increased work production of staff. Nice selection of beer and coffee beverages, and they have love music frequently. Good tourist spot if your not in a rush.
(3)
Kimberly K.
I give it 4 for a great vibe, being totalllly unique and having great craft brews. Their food is not great, but I was kind of ok with that. The cheese board was good. But everything else was just kinda "meh" Service was good. I will come back late sometime to check out the live band scene. Perhaps that'll really warrant my 4 stars.
(4)
Gina Marie B.
This is exactly the kind of place I was looking to visit when I went to Salem. It is as artsy as it gets. Live music, cute waiters with tattoos, art on the walls, french food, etc. A truly fun place in the middle of town that reminded me a lot of cafes in the artist colony areas of the village and Williamsburg Brooklyn. However this place was a tad bigger then those. The most interesting thing about the set up here was that it was half cafe and half bar. Something I actually do not see too much of in the artist colonies. You could come here at night for just a drink, or just for desert, or just for a sandwich, etc. I could see it was a lot of places home away from home. It has a relaxed atmosphere. You walk in and you seat yourself. It can get very busy so do not alway expect to find a seat! But a waiter will come up to you shortly when you do. The menu is a small cafe menu. They are trying to re-create what you would see in a lot of French cafes. So if you are dying for a menu with a thousand options, and foods such as big juicy stakes and pork chops, then do not come here for dinner. If you are a crepe, cheese, panini, and a yummy dessert drink lover then come here. I got a drink that literally tasted like strong alcoholic chocolate syrup! YUMMY! I got a cheese plate. Cheese plate in general are expensive but this place was worth the money, and the quality. Most NYC places I go to that have cheese plates offer you the tinniest little crumb of cheese. This place gave you a huge slab of cheese and an entire huge bowl of bread to go along with it. I could not believe the size, I ended up taking a lot home. It was very good! My boyfriend and I then shared the banana and nutella crepe that they had. It was very very good. I am not a huge crepe person to begin with, but could tell this was a good crepe. Service was fast and very friendly, everyone seemed to be having a great time. I will be coming back here next time I visit Salem!
(5)
Chrissy H.
This is my home away from home. I should probably pay them rent. Free wi-fi, good music, coffee, tea, bagels, crepes and art work make this a perfect place to get off campus (this means you Salem State!) and get some work done. Between 9:30 and 10:30, it's nice and quiet. 11:30-2 the lunch crowd comes in and there's some bustle, but nothing over the top. Grab a snack! Waffles, oatmeal or a bagel in the morning. Wraps, salads, meat and cheese plates for lunch or dinner. And don't forget the crepes! Coffee, tea -even refreshing iced tea- my favorite and a rarity in New England in the winter! For those of you not giving your liver a rest, get a beer flight! It's cheap and the best way to find a new favorite craft beer! If you see a girl in bangs with her head buried in a book, come say hi, I could use a distraction from schoolwork!
(5)
Kate D.
My opinion has changed and this has now become one of my favorite spots in Salem. Food, beer, service and atmosphere is great. Love the hipster vibe to it. I would highly recommend any of their paninis - delish! Love Gulu Gulu!
(5)
Sona T.
Dropped in Sunday morning for breakfast. We were really looking forward to coming here for breakfast due to its presence and the reviews. We sat ourselves, which I think is a strange policy so people coming in had to make their own system. We sat down and ordered regular coffee (bitter and strong) and ordered two breakfast sandwiches and a waffle. We were waiting for 45 minutes! We told the waitstaff that we've been waiting so long and got a lackluster apology. It seemed they were making food for the larger groups first. We got so fed up, that we voided our food (we were still 6-8 tickets away from our food being cooked!) and went somewhere else to have lunch. Came for breakfast, waited long enough for lunch. Also, the waitress was rude when we voided our food; I have not had one pleasant encounter with the staff here. They seem to be running around all the time but they're not accomplishing anything. I was really looking forward to a nice experience.
(1)
Lana G.
Stopped by on a whim on Friday, when my mother and I were visiting the Peabody Essex Museum and wanted a light lunch. Food menu and potion sizes were perfect! Great vegetarian options, make your own crepes, creative salads, and great cafe drinks! Everything you could want for a healthy, light lunch or snack. I almost wish I lived closer so that I could return to the mismatched chairs, funky art, game shelf and wonderful wait staff. I will definitely return next time I am in Salem. As one who lives in Somerville, I love the hipster-feel and I think that's a wonderful characteristic of this place that sets it apart from mediocre options in the area.
(5)
Paul A.
Terrific beer selection and different menu. Had the smoked turkey, BLT Pannini. Tasted okay, not spectacular. Asked for extra mayo. Service slow and cafe not as busy as usual. Thus the 3 stars. Would go back. Hostess was friendly , cooperative and nice.
(3)
Johnathon B.
One of the most hyped-up businesses in Salem. I'll give it to them...location is extremely important for this restaurant. With its city-central base of operations, it's hard to ignore. No bones about it, they have a ton of beers to choose from. The food on the other hand...meh. I had a Caesar Wrap and it was pretty disappointing. (What tasted like) Store-bought, vinaigrette-style dressing, mixed greens (mostly spinach), and uninspiring cheese on a wheat tortilla. The soup of the day was alright, but lukewarm. I've tried their crepes...they always turn out limp and bland. The environment is quaint, but surely not enough to make up for the not-so-great food. TIP: Go next door to Flying Saucer Pizza. It's owned by the same people, so generally they have similar beer choices, the daily specials are delicious, the ambience is great (old sci-fi movies and great music), and it's way more affordable.
(2)
Joe M.
A great place to hang out. Great food I love the creeps. The utepononik is a great warm weather meaty snack.
(5)
Deborah G.
great little spot!
(4)
Danie R.
Beer selection, cheese plate, done. Everything else kind of sucks and is disappointing, especially if you're vegetarian. I've gotten crepes and they were cold on the inside. They were supposed to be hot and melty. Negative. I've gotten sandwiches. So boring that it's like, what's the point? Seriously, stick with their drinks. Coffee, tea, beer, all great here. Cheese plate? Do it! They can't mess that up! But don't get the regular cheddar. Meh. Always the red dragon. Always the marinated brie. Don't worry about it. Just stick with this stuff and you'll like this place. Also, don't come here in October. It'll be packed and you'll take 5 years to get a table and another 5 more to get your food.
(3)
Sarah F.
Gluten-free crepes, gluten-free wraps, and gluten-free PIES!!!!! Delicious food, relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff, and a few comfy couches for patrons make this a surprisingly kid-friendly place. There is of course "regular" food for people without gluten intolerance.
(4)
Lynda L.
Amazing iced coffee!!! Cold-brewed is the way to go!!! Love it Love it! I also highly recommend the S'Mores Crepe, so decadent and yummy. Sandwiches are deeeeelish too!
(5)
Mara S.
This is a nice, casual place for some brunch or lunch. We stopped in around 1 on a Sunday and it was busy, but the wait was only a few minutes. Our food was good - I got a savory crepe, highly recommended, and everyone else got paninis which they seemed to enjoy. I wasn't expecting a crepe to be especially filling, but it was definitely a full meal. Service was a touch slow, but I wouldn't call that the wait staff's fault, it was busy.
(4)
Elizabeth R.
4 Stars for the beer selection and live music. I'm here frequently and have mixed feelings -on one hand, the atmosphere is great... very relaxed. On the other hand, the atmosphere is really relaxed. Nope, not a misprint. While the hip cafe vibe works, it also works against this place. Seating is "take what you can get". On weekends, or nights when there is live music, regulars come early and stay for the duration, meaning the establishment and servers are missing out on revenue from the tables that they could be turning over, were they not occupied. Service is also hit or miss. Waiting an hour for breakfast in Salem is par for the course in October, but not so much in midwinter. And don't even think about playing one of the games in the cabinet... Last time we attempted their Scrabble, we had to cannibalize tiles from the several sets on hand. But Gulu-Gulu, I just can't hate you. You mean well. And there is nowhere else in town you can watch a guy in full Halloween getup rock out to a full house in July, or where my boyfriend can drunkenly buy ironic start trek paintings (swearing all the while we're geeks, not hipsters). And they deserve credit for that. Plus, the beer.
(4)
Mike R.
Beer Cheese Soup, wow!!! Awesome beer list too! Love this quirky little place that is an escape from the witchiness enveloping most of Salem!
(5)
nick c.
It's a great place! Good food, friendly people, comfortable atmosphere. I'm a regular for a reason. When I go out, I think about going other places, but most of the time I end up at Gulu.
(5)
Beth A.
I'm actually a big fan of this place until they changed the weekend menu. The cut the crepes list half and the breakfast sandwiches. My partner and I went in on MLK Day and they didn't have anything that we usually order, even the cheese and meat platter folks rave about - gone. The kitchen refused to make a simple butter crepe. We were so disappointed. Please bring back your regular menu!!
(3)
Sarah J.
My mom and I come to Massachusetts every year and visit Salem! We always make a point to stop at this wonderful place because of their amazing crepes! We are never disappointed with the food or the service. Try the Nutella and banana crepe!
(5)
Lara L.
Quite disappointed that this was my least favorite restaurant in Salem but even that isn't necessarily an insult to Gulu. I think we came there at a crazy time of the day. So I want to give them the benefit of the doubt. They let our dog sit with us and provided fresh water for him (and us) after a very long drive which is always much appreciated. I was just super bummed by how so-so my crepe tasted! And my husbands meal was just average. The best thing I got there was the Italian Stallion. I'd definitely go there again for some spiked coffee. But not for crepes.
(3)
N B.
Poor service. We ordered 2 soups of the day(vegetable soup) and my friend wanted to order mac and cheese and asked the waiter if it will be ready at the same time as the soup since were in hurry to catch a train. After waiting for 20 min we asked the waiter if the food was ready. He said -'you should've told before"!!! Was the question about bringing mac and cheese in time with the soup not enough??? He should've told us that if some dish is taking longer or something. He didn't give any explanation for his delay. And then he was dilly dallying around and wont even look at us when we asked for our check. He almost made us miss our train. We spent 40 min there for something which should have been done in 15min. Never eating there again. Also the soup tasted awful and wasn't worth the $5.50.
(1)
Derek S.
Food is great. Drinks are delicious. Atmosphere is good, though aim to sit inside. The outside seating (more often than not) has proved unsatisfactory due to sewer gas coming from the storm drains nearby.
(4)
Dean H.
There can be a wait but it's worth it. Huge craft beer selection, creeps and sandwiches are tasty at a reasonable price. Only downside is the campers who bring their laptops and hangout for hours.
(3)
J P.
was here tonight and it was crazy busy. I dont really mind sitting yourself but I do mind when its super busy and people are just sitting with their laptops drinking tea. Or people taking up tables just sitting and talking no food or drink go to Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts. Its way too packed in there for that nonsense espcially during Haunted Happenings it shouldnt be allowed. The food is good not as good as the last time we were here. Ordered the red zen tea it was pretty good and got the Istanbul and it just wasnt as good as I remembered. My partner got the barcelona and she loved it.
(3)
Christina M.
If you want to visit a cool cafe with a local artists vibe, Gulu Gulu Cafe is the place for you. It's a seat-yourself kind of place with tables, booths, and lounge spaces for you to choose from. They even sell the art hanging on the walls, if modern art is your thing. My visiting family from the Dominican Republic didn't get it, and proceeded to spend a good 20 minutes laughing about how much money they could make getting their little kids to create the same kind of "art". Well, to each his own! The food itself was a mixed bag for me. The portions were pretty small, so you may find ordering an appetizer or pastry helpful if you are really hungry. The paninis half our table ordered were delicious, and I liked how the sandwiches, wraps, and crepes came with a mixed green salad. It was a tiny salad, but still tasty and appreciated as an extra taste on the plate. However, we were really disappointed by the crepes. I ordered the chicken cordon bleu crepe, and it had an atrocious amount of Dijon mustard that was so spicy it literally cleared my sinuses and made me tear. They were nice enough to take it back and prepare the crepe without the mustard, but it still was a flat square crepe with so-so filling. If you're going for crepes, don't! Gulu Gule Cafe can't hold a candle to the deliciousness that are crepe sandwiches in other places, like Mr. Crepe in Davis Square, for example. If I ever came back I would stick to the panini sandwiches. Or better yet, get a coffee and snack and read a book during off-peak times instead.
(3)
Courtney N.
This place doesn't get the credit it deserves. The food is incredible, the beer selection is extensive and interesting, the atmosphere is cool and hip without being off-putting. I lived in Salem for a couple of years, and Gulu was the go-to place for me to bring my out-of-towner friends when they came to visit. Live music, board games, friendly servers who don't get annoyed with my indecisiveness. What more could you want! The meat and cheese coalition is fantastic, and big enough to eat as a meal. The paninis and wraps are delicious (try the Istanbul--best sandwich I've ever had in my life). Cookies are humongous and served warm. I really can't enough good things about this place. Check it out!
(5)
Courtney G.
Came here yesterday for lunch and a few beers and I'm glad I did. When we got there is was packed but they offered us a couch to eat and drink at. It was so adorable. My friend and I felt like we were in an episode of friends. We each got a pumpkin beer and I ordered the Lyon Vegitarian panini while my friend ordered the Portobello salad as a wrap. Both were delicious. The best part about our meal I thought was our waitress. She was so sweet and funny. Even when it got busy she still would come over to check on us during our leisurely 2 hour lunch. I don't remember her name, otherwise I'd call her out, but she had short hair and reminded me of what Tinkerbell would probably look and act like. This was one of our first stops in Salem and it really set the mood for the whole day. I definitely recommend it.
(5)
Matt W.
Good draft brew selection. Girlfriend had a white mocha. Nice ambiance. A little hard to get a seat inside on a rainy day(^_^)
(4)
Amanda G.
Had a very lovely lunch at Gulu Gulu! My savory crepe was divine - the dough itself had fragrant herbs mixed in, and the gruyere chicken, and basil were fresh, with good portions of each. Was a bit disappointed that they were out of d'affinois cheese however, as I think it would have been even better. The blueberrry/brie crepe was a bit less of a hit - the Brie wasn't melted enough but the blueberries were pleasant. Nice latte selection as well. Would certainly go back and try more of the crepes!
(4)
Shaun S.
-dog friendly -food was a tad bit $ -decent beer selection -service was super slow like european slow
(4)
Michele H.
I have not had a bad dish here. Their smoked salmon and cream cheese plate is incredible. Amazing panini. I love their bread and cheese pairings. Beer is abundant, with craft brews for all. And just a great atmosphere.
(5)
Anne S.
This was a stop during our Salem visit. The ambience is great! Very inviting! They had a few good gluten free options for my daughter. She had a roast beef and Swiss on a Gluten free wrap and she loved it. The coffees and crepes were also very good!
(5)
Jo-e M.
Our favorite bar in Salem. We have been coming here for a little while (before we moved to Salem) and always liked it - friendly staff, great beer, great location, great food. Can't recommend this place enough
(5)
Melissa G.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this place! My go to anytime I am in salem and sometimes I'll even drive to salem just to eat there
(5)
E. H.
The service here is painfully slow. And sullen. Where is the sense of urgency? I have been here when it was dead--DEAD--and it took them over half an hour to make a bad crepe. I watched. I was surprised the kid who made it could see through all that ennui. I have heard similar food related horror stories from my friends--soup sent back multiple times to be reheated, only to have it come back cold--but what I really don't like here is the management. They're just...not nice people. I think they've banned two thirds of Salem from this place. That's fine for tourist season, but it's not a good idea to alienate the locals. What happens when the natives get restless?
(1)
Donato A.
Excellent food and prices. I love the panini sandwiches. Large selection of beers and very comfortable atmosphere. We love sitting by the windows. No pressure from wait staff to order. One thing for sure is you need to bring back the "PALERMO" panini.
(5)
Niki S.
I love the Gulu!! After tonight's Chicken Caesar Wrap, I had to finally sit down and write a review.. Every time I have gone to the Gulu-Gulu, I have enjoyed myself and the chill atmosphere. I really do believe it is their mission for you, their guest, to have a wonderful experience. Come in, relax.. order a beer after breakfast! Why not?! Every visit is what you make it.. The Gulu's Breakfast Sammies are awesome.. Their teas are relaxing.. Decadent coffees, espresssssoooooooo!!! Zoom! I have only had their sweet Banana Chocolate Crepe, but I immediately thought "I should not get addicted to these" I like their sandwiches, but I love their wraps. Plus, the price includes a salad and chips. Right now, I am enjoying a Large Iced Andes Latte.. My server warned that there were three espressos in this bad larry. 16 ounces for four bux?! Sold. You won't find this Peppermint Mocha deliciousness alongside an awesome freakin' wrap at Starbucks. There are so many beverages on the menu that every one in your party will have their something special. Beer, Martinis, Mimosas!?! Imagine your living room with everything at hand.. Wine, Cheese, Apples to Apples and WiFi.. seriously. Go to the Gulu!!
(5)
Joey L.
This is an awesome cafe/bar. It was packed and there were people studying, playing board games, having dinner, sipping their coffee, doing work and having a beer. I love their craft beer selection. I also tried the cheese board and it was awesome. Will definitely be back.
(4)
GatesofDawn67 M.
I want to amend my review. I have since learn to brew my own espresso and I have gotten pickier. I no longer recommend the Gulu's espresso. See my older review for comments on atmosphere food and service.
(4)
Leah N.
Favorite Spot in Salem. I'm only giving it 4 stars because the service is a little slow. The servers are great, but last call 12:45. They take your drinks away at 12:53 (at least that was when mine was taken away.) If it's open until 1, why don't I have until 1 to finish my drink? I don't like having to slam a beer when I get one for last call... ? They do get a little snappy towards bar close as well. I went here for my birthday with a bunch of friends from MN, and we all had a great time. Love the environment, super fun vibe. Just wish the town would extend bar close an hour.. (which is not their fault, although I stand by they could let you have until 1 to finish your drink)
(4)
William M.
One of my favorite laid-back places to grab a beer in Salem. It's somewhat of a mix of coffee lounge, sandwich bar, craft beer fest. They're known for their crêpes and ever-changing eclectic and tasteful beer selection. The sandwiches and other foods are consistently tasty, but beware of the dijon mustard. I'm not sure if it's homemade, but it's wicked spicy! Shoots a zinger up my nose and tears up my eyes while overwhelming some bites of my otherwise delicious sandwich. There's wifi, board games, and open mic. night where you can see the odd and creative folks Salem attracts. Some are really good, some are terrible and loud. There are poetry nights, and special events such as independent film showings. The staff is typically hipster, experienced, and seems to turnover almost as often as the beer selection.
(4)
Molly O.
Order the BEC on ciabatta toast breakfast sandwich! And the smoothies! I can't say enough good things about the breakfast sandwich. Somehow hearty, yet light, flavorful, and hit the spot for a lazy morning. The wildberry smoothie tasted exactly like black raspberry ice cream and it was dairy free!
(4)
Michael C.
One of the tastiest crepes I've ever had. Great menu too!
(4)
Jay W.
Great coffee and eclectic decor. The only downside is the customers seemed angry and on edge
(4)
Leah O.
This restaurant is definitely my favorite place in town. Not only does it have amazing food and very friendly service, but the beer list is fantastic! And there's always art made by local artists on the walls. Musicians regularly come and perform at the cafe, and the entertainment is usually pretty good. If you have never been to Gulu Gulu, be advised that it is not a place for someone who's in a rush. I go to Gulu Gulu to hang out and drink good beer, so it never bothers me, but sometimes you have to wait a bit for your food.
(5)
Thomas N.
This is likely my favorite spot in Salem. The beer selection is incredible and the coffee is outstanding. The service is always exceptional and friendly. Performances are varied and more interesting than most places and there's always a new art show on the walls. The cherry on the top is NO TVs... thank the gods. From their website, it seems that the lack of TVs is intentional to create a more social atmosphere or something to that effect. I like it. It's got relaxed, friendly feel. My only request would be more vegan food, though they do try.
(5)
Christina L.
A great place to chill with cool people, have a drink, and something really tasty to eat. Definitely a place to revisit.
(4)
Kristine A.
I can't believe in all my years of going to Salem I didn't know this place existed. I am thankful to my friend for moving there & showing me this place. It is so adorable & very down to earth, artsyish & fun. It has a decent size menu & veggie options which is super important for me. I am going to have to make sure to I get here every time I hit up Salem. It's pretty busy like all the time so be prepared for that.
(4)
Jennifer T.
Don't understand the great reviews. Trendy spot but so so food and terrible service. Took forever to get the crepe and panini we ordered (not during a busy time). Never got refills on water or iced tea. Food lukewarm when finally delivered.
(2)
Jamie S.
Great beer and awesome fresh great eats! My husband and I came here and, delicious!!!! Definitely hope to go again soon! I need to look up Parkin for my next visit.
(4)
Fiona I.
We got the red peppers and artichokes tapenade with flatbread as appetizer. It tasted decent until.... We found hair on it!!!It's a shame that such a cute cafe would have such a terrible hygiene. The menu is interesting and has many choices, but the lack of cleanliness is disappointing. The server didn't seem surprised when I showed her the hair inside the tapenade. On top of that, she didn't even bother to apologize for what had happened. Extremely disappointed!!!
(1)
Vivian C.
Located directly behind the "Bewitched" statue, the Gulu Gulu Cafe is a nice spot to stop for a snack. If you want to sit outside, let the staff know, but if you want to sit inside, just go ahead and find yourself a seat! A ton of games are available for the borrowing, and you're not hurried along here. It is a nice place to hang out. The high ceiling may have helped the noise to disperse a touch. The $8.00 Strawberry & Nutella Crepe arrived hot and yummy to the table, while the $2 orange cream soda was served in a chilled bottle along with a glass of ice to pour it into. Two individual bathrooms are available per gender, and cute fishes decorated the hallway. When leaving, be careful of the single low lying step!
(4)
Eunice R.
I spent my 21st birthday here and it was all that I could have hoped for! Great beer selection, wonderful vibe, and fairly priced. I had their beer sampler and thought that was a great deal. Didn't get to try out their food, but definitely plan on it!
(5)
Jody G.
Very cute sandwich shop in walking distance from the Salem Witch Museum. Everything is nice and fresh.... and there is a lot to choose from: crepes, salads, sandwiches, soups..... I had a tuna salad wrap. The tuna was high quality white Albacore with just the right amount of chopped celery and mayo. There was a choice of a white, whole wheat, spinach, or tomato wrap. I chose the whole wheat and it was nice and fresh. The only negative is that there was a lot of lettuce and not enough tomatoes or onions on my sandwich. The lettuce even overpowered the tuna salad a bit. The sandwich was served with a teeny-tiny bit of green salad and some kettle style potato chips. My vote would be to do away with the little bit of salad (since there was so much lettuce in the wrap) and perhaps put a nice pickle on the plate in its place.
(3)
Yolanda C.
Having some Chocolate Banana Crepes with Strawberry and powdered sugar. This place has one of the best crepes north of Boston. I'm a huge crepe fan and this place is always my go to crepe place. It is located right in the heart of Salem. A great place to have lunch after walking around and touring Salem. It does get super busy but the wait really isnt that bad. I've been coming here for years and I think the longest I had to wait was maybe 15mins tops. If anyone has relatives or visitors coming into town and are showing them around Salem, don't forget to stop in here.
(5)
Rachel D.
Gulu Gulu is as good as Salem gets, and if you're in Salem you're in for a treat - especially if you're a hipster. Gulu Gulu is hipster haven, among many other things. It's got delicious coffee, great sandwiches and snacks, and many little nooks to sit and reach a book or update your blog. The owners are very friendly too, and the wait-staff definitely reflects the aesthetic feel Gulu Gulu set out to achieve. If you're a fan of the Otherside in Boston then Gulu Gulu will win you over.
(4)
Nick B.
This used to be my favorite place to go and hang out. Unfortunately I moved out of Salem. I'm not normally a coffee drinker but they do have some really good coffee. The beer list is always changing which is cool. They offer some really good ones. The food here is great. My favorite used to be a panini called the Gruen Muenster. Black forest ham, Muenster cheese, banana peppers and greens. Food can take a while to come out, even if the place is dead, so make sure you have a good amount of time to sit if your planning on eating here.
(5)
Brita F.
Outstanding service, Their bruschetta is the best -- They have board games here?! --Haiku review
(5)
Thumper B.
Really wanted to like this place because the atmosphere was lovely and the jazz performance was very enjoyable that night. Here's where they need to improve 1) Drink service is super slow. Why does it take 20 mins to get a glass of beer? Something is not working at the bar smoothly. And when we order 2 beers, why does it come out 1 beer at a time to the table? 2) Crepe - So I was really looking forward to the mushroom and (cheese) crepe. So disappointed to find out someone didn't salt the veggies (mushrooms) before putting them in the crepe, making the crepe completely bland. That's cooking 101. Always season the ingredients first. 3) Sausage platter thing my boyfriend ordered...the temperature was weird. It wasn't warm or cold...it was half cold...it just didn't work. It felt off. We liked the pickled onion. That was good. Overall a B- experience for us. I may go back for drinks and music but not for the food.
(3)
Gino R.
Food was okay but make sure you have a change of clothes in your cat otherwise all your clothes are gonna be smelling like food.
(3)
ginger B.
Each time i go to gu lu if u are seated alone the girls ignore u forever and then never check in with you. If im with friends or my husband its the opposite. Three of my friends and myself have found non food items in our food. Hair. Plastic. Etc and their crepes are minuscule. Fun atmosphere but bad service and not enough food on plate for price
(1)
Jennifer E.
For a sandwich shop, this place is top notch. The sandwiches are tasty, hearty, and made with love. The have lots of different kinds to choose from and come with crunchy potato chips and greens. The breakfast section of the menu sounds killer so I'm excited to try it sometime in the future when I'm back in Salem. One of the best parts of the menu is the beverages. They have a large selection of craft sodas, teas, coffee and espresso, and best of all: One hell of a beer selection! They have an extensive draft selection, and you can taste a few of them with a flight. Gulu rocks, and I can see why the reviews are so great. It's casual, fun, and the food is so so good. It's much larger on the inside than I would have thought, but has a cozy feel to it. It's another one of the hot spots in Salem that is also a nice relief from the hordes of tourists and ghost hunters. Slip in, grab a sammy and a brew, and enjoy a friendly chat with one of the cool-as-cucumber staff.
(5)
Nate Y.
Came here for breakfast/brunch and was happy I did. With high ceilings physically it's a fairly large space, but with the varied laid back seating and coffee shop vibe it felt real comfortable. They Serve a variety of coffee/teas and sandwiches, but their specialty are the variety of crepes. They have them as breakfast, sweet, and savory. I had the Traditional crepe with bacon, egg, and cheese. Good size, and was tasty, but for me could have a little more filling. My sister had the veggie crepe and it was packed full, oozing with goat cheese. She enjoyed it immensely. My sisters and I also shared the Nutella and banana crepe. LOVED IT. It's possible to hangout here all day into the evening, with a cabinet full of board games, serving wine and beer, and good music playing in the background. Too bad I don't live in Salem :( P.S. If you like Boston terriers and/or pugs then you can buy one for their t-shirts.
(4)
John R.
Nice little spot here. Has that laid back, hipster type vibe where you know you could bring in a laptop or some music and hang out for hours. Good food too! We each had a wrap and both were delicious and came with some chips. Just moved to the area and will definitely be back!
(4)
Erin B.
If there were a place like this in Somerville, there would be lines of hipsters out the door all the time. It's not a place that was created to be hipster, it's just that hipsters can't help but love it. Anyway, I'm happy that it's in Salem, where hipsters and having good taste and beer are minorities. More room for me when I'm in between classes and want a little treat! There are many things that Gulu does well, but most appreciated are the friendly and knowledgeable service, the tasty crepes, the broad beer selection, and the mostly reasonable prices (relative to Boston area). And they have free Wi-Fi with some comfy chairs and couches, and outlets at the bar! I've never had a bad experience here!
(5)
Marina S.
The panini's were delicious- perfectly crispy and flavorful, but my drink was not so good; tasted like what I imagine gasoline would taste like. The name of it was "Starry Night" and it has absinthe and all kinds of chocolate goodness on it but unfortunately that was a fail. Though the idea of their artsy theme is great, the flavor should definitely outshine the name of the cocktail. BUT I would give this place another shot next time im in Salem because I did not try the other cocktails.
(3)
Rachel B.
My husband played a live show here and it was one of my favorite New England venues!! Tasty food, huge selection of drinks, full of noise and music. My kind of place. :) I recommend the crepes (tasted both the lemon and banana nutella), cheese and meat plate, also the panini... oh, and the HOT CHOCOLATE. Mmm... it was like one half whip, one half cocoa. So wonderful on a cold winter night. Really nice ambiance and a great place to visit if you're a tourist or just checking out Salem for a short while.
(5)
Michael C.
Beerrr
(4)
Katherine H.
Love.
(5)
Jacquee P.
This is a really lovely place to spend time with a friend and share a meal after a movie. We had the antipasto salad and the Barthelona panini. The ambiance is really inviting and warm. The Monday night we were there everyone was playing board games and eating snacks.
(5)
Kate B.
I'm baffled by the fact that this place has four stars. When we arrived, there was plenty of seating available, but we were told it would be a 45-minute wait before we could order food because the kitchen was overworked. Oh, hello, YOU'RE A RESTAURANT. Get your shiz together. We sat anyway, & the server changed her tune, telling us we could go ahead & order - it was like they'd been trying to convince us not to eat there... My friends both ordered the bagels & lox; they were told the bagel selection was very limited. One friend listed four types of bagels she preferred, & asked the server to let her know if none was available. The server, who never reported back, served her a poppyseed bagel, which was not on that list. And neither of them were given cream cheese! WITH LOX & BAGELS! When they asked, the server sounded shocked: "You want cream cheese?" Well, yes, this is a bagel, & we are Jewish. I asked the server for her opinion on two dishes, & ordered the JackMac & Cheese, which she recommended. She returned in 10 minutes to tell me it wasn't available. Just like the bagels, I guess. I ordered a tomato, basil, mozzarella panini instead, thinking it would be tasty no matter what. But... it wasn't a panini. Basically, it was the aforementioned ingredients on bread so toasty it bordered on inedible. It took 20 minutes to get out check. Luckily, we paid in cash. Who knows how long it would've taken to get a credit card back?! No, thanks, Gulu-Gulu. You may try to pass yourself off as a quirky hipster cafe, but if the service & food don't cut it, you can't fool me twice. ___ Addendum: Gulu-Gulu's General manager contacted me via Yelp to apologize for my negative experience. Good customer service, even in the aftermath, goes a long way! I'd now be happy to give Gulu-Gulu the benefit of the doubt on a return visit to Salem. Thanks for reaching out, Laura!
(2)
Tanya M.
nice cafe, mellow vibe... great service, good beer menu..
(4)
Mallory S.
I have a soft spot for the Gulu. So many great beers on tap and the service is great. I wanted to highlight the service again because the waiter/bartender went out of his way to help us find an additional chair and get our order in before the kitchen closed on a Friday night. My warning still stands: If you are going to the Gulu Fri/Sat night and are staying for the entertainment (starts at 9pm) be warned it may not be your style. Sometimes it is funky and unique is a good way and sometimes it is awful. Never a dull moment!
(4)
Anthony M.
Great beer selection, and an eclectic menu. Ambiance is super laid back, and it definetly comes across that this place is based on a Prague cafe. You can hit GG for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or just some snacks and brews and always have a great experience. Comforting and relaxing are two words I would use to describe the Gulu Gulu Cafe.
(5)
Zoe S.
We arrived here on an early weekend morning after a red eye flight from SF. The first two places on our list were boarded up. We were promptly seated and had hot coffee in front of us within seconds. I ordered a crepe that I honestly don't remember what was in it. When it arrived I thought I mistakenly ordered a burrito. The crepe was as thick as a flour tortilla and there was no sauce. There was a slice of orange though. That was the driest thickest crepe I ever had. We never saw our waitress again nor did our coffee cups ever get filled again. It took forever to get our check. I'm glad we were only visiting. We should have just went to Dunkin Donuts,there is one on every block.
(1)
Amanda C.
Gulu Gulu Cafe is one of those great spots to stop and rest your feet when you are having a touristy day in Salem. I will say, I did judge the book by its cover in a positive way because who doesn't like french bulldog mascots? There is a wide variety of craft beers on tap. No Bud, Coors or Miller products are to be seen anywhere. I always think highly of an establishment when they go the extra mile to provide local spirits. The food looked great on the menu. I was not hungry at the time, but I did enjoy a piece of pumpkin bread. 2 thick, warm slices of bread plus a coffee = a great afternoon treat. Next time I am back in Salem, I will be in for dinner!
I have to say I've been to the Gulu Gulu quite a few times since my last review. They have cleaned which is a plus and I've had a chance to sample their beer offering. On the coffee side of life, you are missing out on a perfect Americano if you don't get one here. IF you drink coffee the Gulu Gulu Americano is a must have beverage. It's that good. It is the Americano I judge all others by. Last weekend I bellied up to the bar and chatted with a friend for hours whilst we sipped some great beers. So now I have a new watering hole and a place to get caffeinated. The food here is good too. I have not been disappointed in anything I've gotten here. I am still in love with the turkey and arugula sandwich and all the stuffed crepes I've ordered. If you don't like hipsters, Gulu Gulu is not for you. If you are an aging hipster who likes good beer and coffee Gulu Gulu is for you. (After my last review, the owner emailed me and said they were going to clean, and they did, the cobwebs are gone. I think its great when a business owner deals directly with customers and then ACTUALLY follows up on what they say they will do. Gulu Gulu has won my undying love for doing as they say they will, that and having a great menu and delicious beverages.)
(5)
Paloma M.
Cute cafe in historic Salem. We sat outside and was really pleasant! Turkey sandwich was great and my coffee was also pretty good! I really enjoyed it!
(4)
John C.
Great service. It is a good after work for a snack and a couple beers. Menu is limited but delightful.
(4)
Morgan D.
Perfection. I am a avid lover of cafes and sulk regularly about the lack of great cafes in my area. I love Starbucks, but that. does. not. count! Let me preface by saying, I visited the town of Salem last summer and feel in love. I pretty much have a passionate love affair with all of New England. I truly think it's so incredible and maybe I'm a little sad I didn't grow up there....anyyyywho....I love this town and think it's adorable so imagine my surprise when my friend took us to a cafe there. This place was great!! We all ordered lattes (which come in great cutesy mugs), a sandwich platter, and wow, one of the most amazing dessert crepes. It was raining on the day we went and the cafe was the perfect place to be: high ceilings, huge floor to ceiling windows, large chalkboards with all their food/beverage items listed, amazing servers. If I lived here, I would be a regular. Another plus, turns into a bar at night (more of an intellectual bar, per se)
(5)
Beverly H.
We came in for lunch at about 1:30 on Sunday. We were greeted and seated right away, were given menus and had our order taken in a timely fashion... and then ignored for half an hour. Drinks appeared after fifteen minutes, then nothing. When we finally flagged down a waitress (not ours, who had been doing her best to stay clear), we were told that "Right after you ordered so did everybody else," which is not actually a valid excuse. We noticed that people who were ordering later were told that the kitchen was backed up and that there would be a thirty-minute wait for cooked food, and most people were fine with that, as we would have been had anyone said anything. It dosn't take much effort to drop by a table, apologize for the delay, explain about the kitchen, and see if anyone would like a refill on drinks. Avoiding eye contact for half an hour isn't a professional way to act. Having said that however, when the food arrived it was fantastic, as always. The kitchen may be slow, but they know what they're doing. Now if someone could explain a few things to the staff.
(4)
Smooth D.
The crepes were perfect! The service was okay, the first waitress neglected us completely, so another waitress helped us out. This seems to be a theme even at other tables. I expected the place to be nice and warm and toasty since it was so cold out but my hands never warmed up, even after running them under hot water in the bathroom. Very cute decor. Good food. Better service and warmer temp would have made the place perfect!
(3)
Jennifer S.
Really cool atmosphere, and different selections. Had a very nice breakfast crepe, servers were very friendly, a little slow, but that did not take away from the experience. I would definitely return.
(4)
Steward P.
Pretty good stuff here. Good vibe in the place, sometimes they play movies on a big screen which is cool, but they don't put the sound up enough. Their drinks are great, their sandwiches are delicious, good snacks, they gotta a lotta good beers. I've seen some decent bands playing there before, and I know people say sometimes they would have a free Wii to play! The only downside is the place does get filled with a buncha trendy obnoxious salem/college/hipster doofuses. Expect to see a bunch of "ironic" mustaches, smelly kids in leather with mohawks, or thick framed glasses on the nerds on their iPads. Besides that, this is a great place to get a snack and chill out for a bit.
(4)
Derek G.
My experience here was horrible, it is literally the sole reason I made this account. People need to be warned. YOU WANT TO TALK ABOUT A PLACE FULL OF BIGOTS? Lets talk about Gulu cafe. The staff; from the moment I walked through the door I felt like I was nothing but a waste of their time. And that's when they're actually taking the time to help you. God forbid you have to flag someone in the waitstaff down for something, because its not answered with a,"I'll be right with you sir or may'em" instead your acknowledged with a lift of the chin and a "ya, I'll be right there". Now, I understand a place can have "regulars" or waitstaff can have friends but give me a break. If the one in particular, chubby guy with the mustache would have taken ten seconds of his time to do his job rather than hang with his friends or the "regulars" this review may have gotten another star or two. But give me a break. My experience was, "here are your drinks, did you look over the menu? No, ok ill give you another 15-20 minutes since you obviously cannot read very well. And I'll just go talk to my friends over here for a while with my back to you and ignore you until I feel like it." Checks in some time later and someone else had beat him to it. "Great so now I'm done with you for the evening, moving on. Talks to friends some more. Well there's my review, for the price you pay and the service you get. Don't bother leaving a tip. I think it's factored into the overpriced beer and food already anyways.its got to be. I had to leave my money and get out of there because there was no chance they were coming to get the check for at least an hour or two.
(1)
Johnny P.
GREAT SPOT Went our first night in Salem and returned 2 more times (2x dinner once drinks) one of the best beer selections and pricing I've found Staff is friemndly, great vibe and we caught an awesome band there at night If your in Salem skip the tourist traps and go here!
(5)
Jim M.
Pros: BEST beer selection in the state(on draft and in the bottle). I had a rare Czec beer that I've only seen in Prague. AND it was on draft!!! **** Also, really hip/cool atmosphere and cool waitstaff. Cons: the food is just so/so. I've had grilled sandwiches as well as choco-banana crepes and, while they were very fresh, were lacking flavor. Also, on a busy day, you'll wait a WHILE for your meal. I waited 45 minutes for said grilled sandwich once. Still, worth a trip to sip some suds and chill.
(3)
Rachel M.
Food is ok, portions are relatively small, but whatever -- my waistline needs to be conditioned to eating smaller EVERYTHING. I like the board game selection, and the atmosphere is totally hipster. Service is awful, though. My boyfriend and I came here one rainy Friday and we waited 30 minutes to even be acknowledged at our self-seated table with menus. We were about to get up to leave when we were finally greeted by a not-so-friendly waitstaff who practically tossed us our menus. Won't be coming back here.
(2)
Michael D.
Ok, you've read the reviews about the beer selection and I'm going to start off by saying it's top notch. You won't find a better beer menu on the North Shore. It's always a treat walking in there simply to see what they have on tap or in bottles. It changes constantly so be sure to ask the waitress or the bartender for up to date beer menus. I've visited this place for breakfast, lunch and dinner and it succeeds on all fronts. The breakfast menu has a wide selection from your traditional breakfast sandwiches to crepes of all styles. They have a selection of pastries but the tastiest is the cinnamon swirl but you have to get there early enough because that's usually the first pastry to sell out. The coffee is delicious too and the mugs give you a great serving size of coffee or tea if you prefer. The lunch and dinner menu are pretty much the same. The meat and cheese combo is a great order, allowing you to choose which meats and cheeses you would like to have. I really enjoyed it but felt it was more to snack on than for a meal. I usually order the chicken ceasar wrap with chips. Its tasty and keeps me full for a long time. To warn you, this place is a hangout spot so the servers do take their time between visiting your table but I've never felt forgotten or mistreated. So, if you go don't be in such a rush. Reeeeeelax a bit. Also, seating can be tough on the weekends especially around lunch time so plan accordingly. Outdoor seating area is also available if you want to enjoy a beautiful day while you eat.
(4)
Jeff P.
Wow, the Barcelona Panino was amazing. Nice service too!
(4)
Kristi W.
I love Gulu Gulu Cafe. It is a great place to sit, chill, talk, and people watch. At night they have live music and the scene is very chill and relaxed. They have an awesome selection of beer and the staff is very friendly. My only complaint about this place is sometimes the servers are a bit slow with your order or to get your check. But other than that ... I love this place. The sandwiches are great and I love the coffee!
(4)
Alex P.
One of my very favorite spots to hangout in Salem. They have, by far, the best import beer selection in town, great mixed drinks, and awesome coffee, not to mention, fun, eclectic food, which is great for sharing. Whenever we bring new people to Salem, the Gulu-Gulu is at the top of the list of places to go!
(5)
Tom F.
Just had lunch here -- I was surprised at how good it was. This place is very kid-friendly and casual -- sort of reminds me of a place you'd find in San Francisco or Seattle. Laid back and, dare I say, almost hip . An extensive beer list -- from all around the world and country (bottles and draft). I had a Hop Notch IPA (from a brewery in Salt Lake City) -- the waitress recommended it. And it was delicious. Then, an Italian Panini and Lentil soup -- both were better than what I expected. The sandwich came with kettle chips and a little salad with italian peppers. The Lentil soup had a kick of curry and spice, and was really savory. The waitress was helpful, friendly and came over just the right amount of times. Very good.
(4)
renae T.
5 stars for a great night out! 3 stars (being generous) for food. We read the reviews, and we're ready for service issues and a wait. We ended up finding a seat immediately, and had prompt service. Pros: kale soup, service (though didn't know much about the beer selection, we didnt care) the vibe, the latte, the games, and the music! We were there for hours! Cons, the rest of the food...mushy fruit salad, cold panini, sausage app (cold...yuck), and the crepe. Re crepe: this tasted good, but anything drowned in nutella will taste pretty good. We are crepe people and make them often. The dough here was tough, chewy. They should be light, delicate, and thin. Bottom line, we would definately go back for the pros, and hope they just had an off dy on the food.
(4)
Kevin D.
The perfect mid-town cafe. Good bandwidth from free wi-fi. Excellent house coffee - no need for fancy espresso drinks. Wonderful young people serving the tables with just the right amount of good cheer. None of that phony stuff. For those that work outside their offices and need a place to plug in, connect and have a drink & a snack, this place is for you. Thanks to DP for the tip.
(4)
Camille R.
I'm so used to these places staffing obnoxious hipster kids, but maybe because Salem doesn't house many hipsters this spot lucked out. Everyone I've spoken to behind the counter has been really down to earth and friendly. A plethora of tea, coffee, and beer options and really yummy desserts. They play good music throughout the day and there's plenty of space to hang out and chill for the afternoon, or evening. Live music some nights, so keep an eye out for the chalkboard that lists upcoming shows. I've had some lunch foods here: bruschetta, mac and cheese, and a sandwich. They were just okay. But the desserts!! Did I tell you about the desserts??
(4)
Rich T.
LOVED IT! Awesome place, and great sandwiches.
(5)
Robbo O.
The food and coffee at Gulu are good - five star for what they are (it's a panini, fercrissakes!) - but I have a chip on my shoulder about their abandoning their spot in Lynn, which admittedly didn't do nearly the business they do in Salem, but made for a more peaceful experience for me, and I'm all about me...ME ME ME! It's also a downer for me that Gulu in Salem is almost always packed to the rafters, so as a frequent solo diner, I'll either be at the bar, which I dislike a lot, or on a sofa with a stranger (I can deal with that alright). It's not a very comfortable space when crowded: The acoustics are very loud and echoey, the bar seats are hard on my boney runner's ass, and the bar not deep enough to comfortably eat a meal, and it's pretty dark in there unless you score a seat by the window. The service people have always been fine, if a bit cursory because of the crowds they're juggling. All in all, it's a matter of wild success snatching the fifth star. I think the proprietors can live with that. Bottom line: On a Tuesday afternoon, when there is a tornado watch in effect, this is a great place to relax over crepes and lattes!
(4)
Lucy S.
Love this place! The only downside is seating fills I past. Great list of beers-very wide selection. Come for the crepes they're amazing!
(4)
Robert M.
This place is terrible. It has become very successful because it has become a mecca for local hipsters. The food is okay. The staff are the rudest people I have met in the planet.They had an open mic there one night and my friend was performing so I brought all my camera gear and set up. One of my friends asked me to bring a keyboard out to his car. whenI returned they told me I had to wait to get in. I informed that I had already been and that half my camera gear was in the restaurant already. the woman then started yelling at called another woman over who was apparently the manger who told me she was going to call the police on me. Eventually I was able to have a friend grab most of my camera gear. This place blows (pardon my language) but I have no other way expressing how much I hate this place. It's in incredible clicky trendy hipster atmosphere and staff is insufferable. If your a rich art student looking for a hipster hang out. Then this is the place for you. If not I would recommend finding another coffee shop in town. Like the Front Street Coffee shop. Their place might be small but their coffee is great and your treated like a person when you go there. p.s. Notice the Owners statement below trying to discredit my review, but if you scroll around you'll notice I'm not the only person on here that has had trouble with the staff. I am no way a trouble maker if you want better review treat your customers with respect.
(1)
Susan R.
I was literally right there when Quinn E was turned away from the gay night, and when the DJ kicked us out of the table where we had spent WAY too long waiting for food/drinks and spent a LOT of cash. Admittedly, it was ridiculous and horrible, and I can understand Quinn's 3 star rating given the bad time had by all of our group. However, I have been back several times since and have to give it a 4. Why? Well... for starters, they have great cheese platters and the best beer menu I have seen outside of Boston... i mean... really really good beer. Also, they play movies on certain nights, have a monthly gay tea dance (never been, since I fear being rejected again from a Salem gay party), an array of DJs, live bands, probably an open mic night (though I would rather rip my own eardrums out than attend a rural open mic night) and are generally a cool place in the early evening hours to have beer, tea, cheese, paninis... etc etc. If i were a teen or a college kid up in Salem, this would be BY FAR the best hang out within a 20 mile radius, and for that, i have to give them 4 stars. Let me take you back and we can have a nice, normal, non-halloween time at Gulu Gulu. You will see that it's pretty cool... all things considered.
(4)
Aubrey P.
An adorable and cozy spot. The second you walk in you feel at home. There are tables, couches and board games. I got an iced coffee which was great! And... COCONUT MANGO CHEESECAKE!! it was some of the best cheesecake I have ever had. It was two layers and you could actually taste both favors. Prices were great. Both for about 8$ They also have many yummy beers on tap and I have many a friends who rave about this place. Would go again. Also... A pug and boxer are the cafe's mascots. Can't beat that!!!
(5)
jenna f.
Terrible customer service skills. I wrote to the owner and general manager regarding my concerns and neither one took the time to reply. Edit*** owner and manger responded after seeing this post. Listened to nothing I said and took word of a server that lied. Probably only contacted me because I left one star. If I could leave half a star I would.
(1)
Joey J.
Easily the best place to grab a bite in Salem - and excellent proof that we made the right decision when moving to the area. Their beer menu is exceptional, the atmosphere warm and welcoming, and even their breakfast menu is remarkable. Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner - go to Gulu Gulu - you won't regret it.
(5)
Karen A.
I'm not a drinker so I haven't tried the tons of beer there, but the sandwiches are good & the atmosphere is fun! You can eat outside if the weather is nice enough & it's close to many of the sights. I would definitely suggest this to anyone looking for a good lunch!!
(5)
Su R.
Pretty amazing on many counts. large , so plenty of room to move around. the menu seems to keep getting better, and even included alcohol! coffee, tea, or booze, yes. it can be kinda loud at times, there was a group of girls in the middle of the place the other day that were obnoxiously chatting and laughing away. . there is often live music events here at night. Crepes=fab. I had the smores crepe with nutella instead of chocolate= drool. my friend loved the veggie wrap. oh and the creme brulee latte= yummmmmm
(4)
Francesca G.
One of my new favorite places. Went here for breakfast and then for drinks at night during my stay in Salem. I loved the atmosphere and live music. The beer selections were amazing, coffee drinks were great, and food was equally as good.
(5)
S L.
Went here a ton. Great place to escape the touristy crap Salem banks on. Really wish they had better bands play...some of the crap on a saturday night was unbearable to sit through. The beer is priced really well so when I'd go here (once a week) we'd get high percent beers and hang outside (the outside seating is the best part) to people watch. Veggie options were great, wish they changed up some of their stuff and served breakfast options all day.
(3)
Jenn B.
Hipster vibe, varied selection beers and on a weekend morning nice bloody mary! The smoked salmon is deeeeelicious! Has a peppered rub. So good on a bagel with all the goods (onions, lettuce etc) on a Saturday morning after a one two many cocktails from the night before. Only down fall service can be a bit slow....
(4)
Mindy L.
I think this place is tops! Went here because the last trip to Salem we made a mental note that we wanted to come back and give it a try. Couldn't resist heading up to the North Shore on a bright, beautiful and sunny Sunday! We ordered the Cheese & Meat Platter (choice of 8 different cheeses and 5 different meats). For only $9.00 you get your choice of three. We decided on the fresh mozz and herb & oil soaked brie and the genoa salami. The platter comes with fresh toasted ciabatta bread and they are not skimpy on the portions! We got 3 huge slices of mozz, an entire wedge of brie and a bunch of salami. It was delicious. For my lunch entree I decided on the "Istanbul" - fresh mozz, turkey, tomato and pesto. The plate comes not only with the largest panini I've ever seen, but also a side salad and a handful of Cape Cod potato chips. Mmm. Everything was so fresh and the portions were beyond generous. The vibe here is ecclectic - bright yellow walls, strange art, funky furniture. They also have board games you can play on those rainy days as well as live music.
(4)
Courtney F.
We really enjoyed our visit to the Gulu Gulu Cafe while touring Salem. The atmosphere was laid back and the service was prompt. The best part was that they offered gluten-free pie. I got the apple pie and it was pretty close to the real thing. I would definitely go back if we lived in the area.
(4)
Siervo J.
The food is definitely not good. I will never go back to this cafe. People should go to other places before saying that this place is good. totally disappointed!
(1)
Amelia L.
Yummy and delish! The bloody Mary was SO good! I had a fantastic crepe with egg, cheese and bacon. I was sad that I was only able to go once!
(4)
Christina A.
This place is very hipster with yummy sandwiches and a stellar selection of craft beers. They are the only place in the area that does crepes. They do dessert crepes and savory ones. My only complaint is that they need to serve ice cream with their dessert crepes. I got the s'more crepe and it was too much chocolate and marshmallow and felt like it was missing something. It's a nice place to go for a casual meal or drink. The music at night can be a little strange for my taste. They have open mic night on Wed. nights from 8-11. It can get really crowded that night and on Friday and Saturdays. Overall this place is good.
(4)
Janet H.
Stopped by here during a visit to Salem. The place is casual and friendly. The waiter and waitress that helped us were very attentive and made sure we were happy with our drinks and food. I ordered the banana and nutella crepe and absolutely loved it.
(4)
Chelsea L.
Next time you find yourself in Salem, do not miss getting brunch at Gulu Gulu cafe. It is a great, offbeat cafe that does not take itself too seriously. I'll be honest, normally anything that hints at hipster has me running for the hills. I blame Harvard Square for putting the bad taste in my mouth. What's great about the alternative atmosphere at Gulu Gulu is that at no point does it feel like they're trying to be different, they just are. You can tell that every member of the staff truly enjoys what they do. From the tattooed rock a billy waitresses to the long haired boys in skinny jeans every one is extremely friendly and helpful. When my waitress helped me select a local draft it was because she was passionate about the menu, not because it was her job. I have been twice now, once with my little sister who is easy to please, and once with my mother and her friend who is never pleased. Everyone loved it! Both times I had the bagel and lox (creature of habit) and it was wonderful. My sister had the cheese plate and judging by the samples I filched from her plate it was tasty as well. If you live in Boston, Gulu Gulu is worth making the trek for, even if you have no either reason to be in Salem. You will not be disappointed.
(5)
James L.
Best beer selection in town. Staff is friendly and knows about beer. Almost always have hard to find beers, whether on tap or in bottles. And the Jack Max'n Cheese is the most delicious thing I've ever had.
(5)
Amanda M.
they dont have a lot on the menu but the things they do have are are unique. I got some turkey panini sandwich with i think swiss cheese, dijon mustard, some greens, and an apple spread. The apple and mustard complimented each other so nicely. It gave my tastebuds a little dance with each bite. The turkey also had a good honey smoked flavor. Thier soda was from a local brewery called mercury. I got a diet cola which was a little sweeter then coke and had kind of a peppery taste. Very good. My boyfriend also got a steak chilli which was good too.They have outdoor seating as well.
(5)
Casey F.
Great beer, friendly staff, good place to hang out.
(4)
Bob D.
Look - there are restaurants that have booze and there are bars with food. Gulu is a bar with (good) grub....but a bar first; as for the reviews here complaining that the food was subpar or the table service was sketchy? Yeah, you missed the point. You're in a bar. If you want dinner you should have gone to Church St....and please take your screaming 9 year old kid while you're at it - at least he has the common sense to realize he doesn't belong at a bar. On the OTHER hand, if you want a bar? Keep reading.... So, you're out for drinks? Good, life is short - let's enjoy it. Now Gulu isn't Drink or Eastern Standard; if you want a bow tied, handlebar mustachioed bartender mixing up wild tinctures with exotic liquors you're going to head elsewhere. Gulu sells beer. ....but, man, do they sell it. Quite possibly my favorite BEER bar in the area. The selection is phenomenal and changes rapidly. No InBev, no Boston Beer Co, no Coors-Miller: awesome imports and microbrews. The bartenders speak beer and, better still, will speak to you about it. The music is eclectic (go online and make sure it speaks to you) as is the crowd. Always pretty friendly, though. Plus, as folks have said, the food is solid for a bar; kinda hipstery - no hamburgers but good crepes. Oh, and tip the bartender. They make the magic happen.
(5)
Alex W.
Hands down the best beer selection in the area, The Gulu is frequently jam packed with its younger, more "hipster" clientele. It is a very lively and relaxed atmosphere and the place is scattered with arm chairs, couches, and benches. It is seat your self and if you want food it can take a while to come out. That being said the food is also a bit expensive however it is well worth it with dishes ranging from excellent grilled sandwiches to make your own cheese and meat plates and both savory and sweet crepes. Unfortunately they do not have a full liquor licensee so mixed drinks are out, however their many craft beers and specialty martinis are a good alternative. The Gulu plays host to bands, open mic nights, comedians, and is also an art gallery, ensuring its always a lively spot. On the other end of that don't expect to have quiet conversation or leave the place without spending some money.
(3)
Tom P.
First of all, I can't believe someone would give this place only 2 stars because the music was loud on a live music night. Anyway, I fully agree this is the coolest place to hang out in Salem-area, and no, you don't have to have tattoos or a hip outift to have fun. Just a good attitude. Generally, you get what you give out in terms of how you are treated. That said, of course the live music is always goiong to be hit-or-miss: it's not Comcast Center. But when it's good, it's real good. When it's not so good...well, there are plenty of other cafes in Salem to hang out in that evening... Dozens of beers you've probably never heard of. Try the Kôlsch, Pork Slap, or Delerium Tremens, which is a crisp, refreshing beer with hints of pear, clove and banana. WOWEE Great wine selection, delicious sandwiches, cheeses and salads, and fast- friendly service where the servers actually work as a unit instead of individuals. This supremely enhances the customer experience, to all other servers reading this review... They also have a glass case loaded with board games and a huge table in the middle of the room to play them on. Comfy couches, old chairs, and a very inviting, open and "cool" atmosphere, this place is more of a must-visit in Salem than any witch musuem or haunted house.
(4)
Brynn C.
This place was super great. We loved our food (I had a cheese plate, she had a lox bagel), the atmosphere was great, the selection was well thought out, the staff was attentive and helpful.
(5)
Hilary W.
I wish I could give them 5 stars, because the food really did deserve that! My grape leaf wrap was amaaaazing (a bit expensive but that's ok). It was the service that knocks my review down two stars. Our server was seriously not with the program! She kept on blaming the kitchen and saying how busy they had been earlier...Ok, it's 3pm and we're here for two wraps. It should not take 45 minutes, even if you were busy earlier! She completely forgot about a table next to us and they had to get their menus themselves. I would go back for the delicious food, but mentally prepare myself for way too long of a wait for a sandwich.
(3)
Felicia K.
Holeee shit. I'm sure I can't really write anything that hasn't already been written. The food and drink are 5 stars; lost a star for mediocre, but friendly service. Can be hard to get a seat sadly, but definitely worth the wait if it isn't too ridiculous.
(4)
Katherine H.
great healthy food. my friends tell me that its to "hipster" but why should it matter the food is awesome and everyones nice to you! Love the Gulu Always. PS They should bring back the Sunday night drag shows those were a lot of fun. :)
(5)
Roman K.
Awesome place with delicious crepes (guys, use more salt!!!) and huge Cappuccinos.
(4)
Milana G.
Awesome. Great atmosphere and an amazing menu. I am basically obsessed with paninis (who isn't though...) and the Barcelona was the best panini I've had in months. Even their chips were killing it...crispy, but not too salty or oily. And they had hot apple cider, PERFECT for the snowy mess that was going on outside. The chocolate/nutella/banana dessert crepe was a phenom too, but good luck saving room to eat it! I thought I was gambling, taking my mentor here for lunch, but I was seriously impressed and so was she! Can't wait to go back!!!
(5)
Christopher M.
I've long said that the measure of great service is not how you're treated when everything goes well, but how you're treated when things fall apart. I've also been elite for quite some time now. I've written my fair share of one and two star reviews. In four years, I've gotten quite used to owner/management feedback. The reactions have been mixed, from ambivalence to anger, concern to caring. I've been invited and enticed back, thanked for my feedback, sworn at, and all but banned from two establishments (though one I still won't go near for fear of castration). But today the bar was set exponentially higher for managers who take customer feedback seriously. No there were no bands or roped off areas for me. I didn't receive special treatment. No one kissed my ass. Instead, the manager came over to me, smiled and greeted me, then joined me for lunch. We chatted about life, careers, and of course customer service. I told her about my experiences here from the past several years both good and bad. We talked about what makes great customer service, and things that can get in the way. I'm still stunned by her concern and drive to correct all issues here. I can't say enough about her sincerity, and her love of this cafe that drives her to make it better every day. I'm rarely taken aback by management especially when I've have less than stellar experiences, but today's lunch really made me realize that this is the same Gulu-Gulu cafe I fell in love with years ago, it's just growing and expanding, and changing for the better. Sadly, that sometimes means new employees who need a bit more guidance and time to get into a solid groove. But with a solid manager at the helm who takes customer feedback seriously and uses it to correct issues immediately I'm convinced that the bumps I felt will be VERY short-lived. Of course an establishment can't earn five stars based solely on its manager. The cafe is relaxed, fun, inviting, and calming. The beer selection is excellent. The tea is fantastic. The menu is wonderful, and features and wonderful meat and cheese selections, fun paninis, and fantastic desserts. Really, this place is a gem.
(5)
Jim H.
I loved this place. I had the meat and cheese plate for lunch. It was the perfect selection for lunch. They have an awesome selection of beer. Try the cheese plate and enjoy a beer or two. If so inclined, try a salad or a sandwich. They look awesome also.
(4)
Chelsea C.
I love the gulu gulu cafe! such a cute little place! GREAT service! and nice employees! I love hanging out with my friends there! It's a great place to mellow out and relax.
(5)
Lisa N.
This is a cute place. I love the ambiance. The Chai Tea isn't the best, I wouldn't get it again. However, the tuna melt was good! They also had a lot of beers on tap and I can't recall what the bf ordered, but it was good! Service was great. Their "mascot" was a bulldog so they have pictures of him up on the wall and on their beer cups. Cute!
(4)
Michele G.
Chicken pesto crepe is gigantic! Cool place to settle in among the other laptop warriors and get some grub. Love it that they host art openings and serve not just caffeine, but booze.
(3)
Chubbs L.
Great place! The beer selection is second to none and the food is also very good. I enjoy the surroundings and the people who work there. It's one of the few places I feel like I can sit at the bar and relax. They always seem to have an excellent selection of imperial and regular ipa's on draft as well.
(5)
Tristan H.
This restaurant spent too much money on trying to look cool and hip that they forgot how to be a restaurant. Pitiful service. My French Onion soup had a slice... That's right... A slice of SWISS cheese on it.
(2)
Julie C.
Gulu Gulu- gulp gulp. If anything, come here for the beers. They have a really good beer list and there is something for everyone. Of course, sometimes the specials they list are sold out. Bummer! Grab a seat at a table or even the couches and relax. My bf and I came here and sat on the couch, order a couple of the Fisherman's Pumpkin Stout and goofed around while playing trivial pursuit.. We also ordered the hummus and veggie plate along with tabouli.. the veggies were fresh and crisp. Having already ate at another place, we didn't really get to try anything. Out server was really nice and bothered us at the right times, when our glasses were empty. I really enjoy the chill atmosphere of Gulu Gulu. It has a really cool vibe. This is definitely a great spot to grab a few drinks and enjoy your company.
(5)
Christie N.
My wife and I come here all the time. We love this place so much that we went here for our post-wedding brunch. I also spent many hours here studying for the bar - the waitresses are very cool about letting you linger and are very attentive. The food is consistently amazing and fresh, and the beer selection is expansive. (Only one complaint - the restrooms need a good cleaning. Probably totally not their fault though because it looks like they share bathrooms with the restaurant next door.) All in all, though - this place rocks. And anyone we take here loves it and wants to come back as a regular. My favorites: The bagel and lox platter, cheese & meat board, bruschetta, and of course - crepes!
(4)
E S.
Nice lunch spot! Went this past weekend between appointments for an earlier lunch. We were seated right away, but service in general was on the slow side (seemed like there was only one, maybe two, servers taking care of the whole place, inside and out). Food was creative, but simple. A delicious turkey-pesto-mozz-tomato panini came with the unexpected bonus of a small greens salad and chips. And the chicken Caesar salad was nice too- spinach instead of lettuce and nice dressing on the lighter side. Overall, worth the price, and a comfortable place to spend some time. Cozy and kitschy without being too hipster.
(4)
Kristin C.
We came here for a late lunch and left quite satisfied. Pros: Great selection of draft beers, delicious food, reasonable prices, fun atmosphere Cons: Service was quite slow. Don't come here if you're in a rush! Also, while self seating might work during a less busy time of year, we found it to be a bit awkward on a Saturday in October. I'd highly recommend getting a cheese plate! You can choose any 3 cheeses for $9, served with toasted ciabatta. The husband and I both had paninis ($8-9) which came with chips and a nice little side salad. Despite the slow service, we'd definitely go back!
(4)
Kristin W.
Great beer. Delicious crepes. Yummy paninis. You really can't go wrong... Unless you're turned off by some interesting local characters. Fave Beers: -Southern Tier Unearthly Imperial IPA, (NY) - draft -Weihenstephaner Vitus, 16.9oz (GER) - bottle Fave Eats: -The Essjay Panini -Portobello Mushroom, Spinach and Basil Crepe -Barcelona Panini And, for what it's worth, I am determined to become a regular at Gulu Gulu.
(4)
Rachel P.
I've come to love the Gulu over the past two years - I didn't think I would like this hipster cafe that doesn't even have ketchup, but you can't deny good food. I always get a cheese & meat plate, and the chicken cordon bleu crepe is delicious. I'm not a beer drinker at all, and I've even found 2 I like at the Gulu! You can hang out and play games or use the wi-fi as long as you want (just tip your server for the space, please).
(5)
Jennifer L.
Gulu Gulu is one of my favorite places to relax with a cold beverage, a crossword puzzle, & people watch. It's nestled into a cozy location in the heart of downtown Salem, has friendly helpful staff, & an impressive beer menu featuring multiple local brews. Being vegan, I can't speak much to the food; I had the hummus dish & thoroughly enjoyed it.
(5)
Jason N.
I love the gulu. I only get there every few months but it's worth it! They have great sandwiches and specialty crepes which are always great. They also have musicians and open-mic nights every week and theres a schedule for those on their website. Just be warned it does get very crowded for those events. The reason I'm bumping it down to 4 stars is because some of the servers are super pretentious. It's a wicked hipster hangout. Sometimes it's alright but other times it can make you feel a bit uncomfortable if you're not the artsy type.
(4)
Kaitlin B.
We visited Gulu Gulu twice during a weekend stay in Salem. The first was late night for drinks with a large group. The selection was great, but service was a little slow and my fiance was served a beer that was definitely not what he ordered. We went back again in the morning for breakfast and were very underwhelmed. The service was incredibly slow and the food was mediocre. I wouldn't go back for more than drinks.
(2)
Jessica W.
Eh. I don't hate it. The food is really great, when you finally get a table, but it is a bit over crowded most of the time. They have really great cheese plates that come with a ton of stuff. You can choose 3 cheeses for $9 with toasted bread. They don't have a full bar, which for me is a bit of a downer. I am not a huge beer drinker, but if you are you'll love the beer selection. Though they have a chocolate martini that is LITERALLY one of the best drinks I've ever had. Overall, the food is great it's just too crowded most of the time.
(3)
Jamie P.
This is really a 3.5 star review. I enjoy this place because it has great beers on tap and the food is delicious. The Paninis are some of the best around. They also have board games which can be really fun when your drinking with some friends! I also love that it's a different scene from every other bar in Salem. However the entertainment is really hit and miss. Some bands are entertaining and some are terrible. We have seen a few acts that are just painful to listen too. All that being said, I will definitely be back to the Gulu Gulu.
(3)
Kelly A.
Gulu-Gulu is Salem is a great place to hang out and grab drinks with friends. There's really cool artwork on the wall, the staff is really nice, the music is fantastic, and the menu is very veg-friendly. I went there for dinner last night with the boy, and then a friend joined us for drinks post-food. Vegetarian grape leaves were great (served with hot pita triangles and yogurt). The mac and cheese (smallish appetizer portion, served alongside a bit of greens) mixes roasted red peppers, cheddar, and goat cheese into a decent elbow dish. Wraps are pretty good. Banana Chocolate crepe is fantastic. Iced tea is strong, freshly-brewed, and lovely. Beer list is fairly extensive. Sometimes they have live music, and sometimes they show movies.
(4)
Tim A.
Cool atmosphere, good food selection, great beer list. The service has been really good every time I've been here. There aren't a lot of good options for vegetarians in Salem, so this place stands out.
(4)
Amy C.
Gave Gulu another try and I must say it was so much better. I will give the owner mad props for emailing me directly when I posted a bad review. That takes character and I'm happy to see that some of the things we talked about were much improved. The service was very good, the food quality was fresh and I was also glad to see this place was packed. I mean every single table was full and that is a great sign for Salem. I ended up getting the smoked turkey, bacon, tomato on grilled ciabatta . The little side salad had a great balsamic dressing. I will definitely come back and that is a good thing!
(4)
L. G.
This is a great spot in Salem. They have a great beer selection, delicious food and live music. My kind of place. I've been here a few times and always have a great time. I've had a few different appetizers and wraps and everything is phenomenal. The only down side is that it's pretty small and fills up quickly on the weekends, so if you want to get a seat you have to get there early.
(4)
Daryl P.
I have had similar experiences as some other reviews I saw here... A. The beer is great, and the selection is very impressive. B. That being said, the food is a bit pricey and pretty mediocre. The only thing I actually order now is the combo cheese/meat plate with their grilled bread. Good price and very filling, obviously. C. I also feel like the waitstaff is always annoyed with you just for coming in. I'll go back when it's nice enough to sit outside again, and they get interesting music sometimes, but on the whole... Meh.
(2)
Felicia S.
SERVICE: Service has always been fantastic and I've never had an issue being waited on. FOOD: Food is always great. My absolute favorite wrap there is "The Essjay" its a hummus and fruit wrap, so delicious and a perfect pairing of flavors. ATMOSPHERE: I enjoy the cozy seating and very homey feel to the place. ATMOSPHERE-CONS: Some nights Gulu Gulu cafe hosts live music and to be honest, I just don't see it as the right establishment to host such loud music. I'll admit I even like the idea that there is place where people can meet up, listen to music, and relax. I just don't think a small cafe like the Gulu Gulu should be used like a concert hall. Unfortunately, the live bands turn into tight college parties that don't allow for any seating on those given nights. God forbid you did get a seat, you wouldn't be able to talk with the person across from you. On those nights I recommend that most customers order take-out.
(4)
Chris S.
I've been growing a mustache for Movember, so I felt comfortable enough in a hipster environment to check this place out. I thought it was well organized with a line at one end of the bar for ordering drinks. It took away the unpleasant act of reaching between seated patrons to place an order, take your drink and then pay. I thought the atmosphere was pretty cool, there was a guy spinning records in the front and some sort of film playing behind him...didn't pay enough attention to it to figure out what it was. I thought their beer selection was good, however I would have liked to have seen more representation from the Mass Brewers Guild (we have great breweries here in MA). The bartender seemed knowledgeable and friendly, and I thought there prices were very fair, especially on the higher alc beers. Looking forward to checking out the food at some point.
(3)
Alex L.
I came in here after multiple recommendations. I know now to try the crepes next time, but I had the mac and cheese. It was very different from what you'd expect from mac and cheese but very delicious. The beer selection is very good. I ordered a chcolate stout, but that being out they had a BBC stout that was equally good. I will be back.
(4)
Andrea S.
Total Agreement with other reviewers on food and beverages. This is my hubby's favourite place for beer, coffee, and atmosphere! During the day when we visit I like their "Andes Espresso" In the evenings the "Absinthe Ordinaire" is a must. In a perfect world I would prefer to experience the full Absinthe ritual, however, it's not practical for GGC's current set up. The wait staff does a great job considering the dynamic of the environment (The place is always busy - yes it gets loud therefore not so great for intimate conversation). Frankly, they are as eclectic as GGC's mission statement. A creative bunch of kidz!!
(5)
Jen L.
I've never had a bad lunch at Gulu. Sometimes I go just for the smoothies. But when I've called ahead to come pick my food, more often then not they start making it when I arrive. What's the deal? Minus one star for the service. Definitely delish though.
(4)
Jenn F.
My sister and I are both vegan and went here on a whim. We shared the hummus plate and the hummus wrap. It was so yummy! I would definitely go here again for the wine, free wifi and great food. Our service was a little slow, but it didn't bother me.
(4)
Michele B.
The good: Great Crepes (thought they leave the rind on the Brie, but that is how most use it, I am just fussy about that). I take a lactaid for my visit there because almost everything seems to have cheese, but it is delicious, so I am good with that. They do not seem to have regular sandwiches, everything is in a roll up, so if you don't like that, this is not the place for you. They also have a good selection of beverages, alcohol and non-alcoholic. I love their hot cider very much, and it is lovely after shopping in Salem on a cool day. They also have outdoor seating which is nice. There are a lot of dogs there though, so if they scare you, this may not be the place for you. The wait staff is just lovely. I have never had a surly or inept server there. They also seemed to be encouraged to be individuals, and I respect a place that does that. Located in a central spot. This area has a varied selection of shops ( love the kitchen shop and toy shop not far from there). If you go for no other reason, go because it is convenient. The bad: Not a great selection of foods. What they serve is wonderful though, just not a large selection and nothing "typical" so you need to go in with an adventurous spirit. I even got my friend who is a burger person to give the crepes a go. He seemed to like them a lot as he ate the entire thing. As with Harrison's up the road, there is little parking. Parking is metered, and they are strict about it, almost as bad as Cambridge. Bring lots of change (I forgot the rate).
(4)
Jocelyn P.
I LOVE it here. I really haven't found many chill cafe type places where you can just hang out and read or do whatever... this is that place for me. I think it would be nice if they would put in a few couches or cushy chairs (those weird highback leather ones in the corner don't really cut it for me), but it's not a deal breaker for me. The coffee is always good and they are usually pretty good about checking back. I typically go during the day, and the service has been decent. I don't think I've hit "regular" status with the waitstaff yet, but they are all nice enough. In terms of speed, I've been in and out pretty quick when I needed to leave, but they are also good about leaving me alone when it's clear that I'm just sitting there studying. The soup is so good, and I always get the essjay wrap. SO GOOODDD. Usually they play pretty nice music, but sometimes they play super weird stuff and crank it... I've left early a few times to get away because it's so distracting. Overall, this place is my jam. I crave it and wish I lived closer so I could be a regular and convert all my friends to Gulu-ists.
(4)
Mimi B.
On a cold afternoon I had lunch in this great cafe. Loved the atmosphere and the menu! Two of us got Panini and one a wrap. Very delicious with a small salad and chips included. The bread was a bit thick for our tastes--panini is all about the awesome crispiness of the grill and and melted fillings. With bread so thick this sort of missed the mark, but they were good sandwiches. Next time (and there will be a next time) I will get those awesome looking crepes or a salad. Both looked amazing. We all loved the place, just haven't found the right entree yet, but it is well worth going back to find something more yummy.....and beer of course.
(4)
Em G.
wow. sat down at the only open table on a thursday night and was served two of the most uninspiring meals a crepe, a beer, and an especially atrocious martini they called "the giddy cocktail". i am telling you, it was ungodly - i ended up daring my friend to finish it for me. the decor screamed "ARENT WE DIFFERENT?!" and the presentation mumbled "at least we tried." they had a err.. "band" (??)playing, which consisted of a dude and his gameboy, not even kidding, playing covers of songs you didn't want to hear the original of, let alone the gameboy rendition. sort of cool while loafing on the internet, but i am trying to eat and converse, not hear the dubbed remix of ash riding his bike in a cave. all around awful experience. the only saving graces were our smiling server, the impressive beer list and the crepe. a real shame since i loved the atmosphere when i walked in (before kirby set up) - but i will not return for grub or drinks until i catch wind of some serious updates to the respective menus.
They had a couple of vegetarian options and a vegan wrap. Great food, nice people. I will definitely go back again
(4)
Steve K.
The atmosphere is pretty nice. It's an 18+ eatery with a huge export and import beer list. You won't find bud, PBR, or Sam Adams here... but if you are looking for something different in the realm of beer, you are in Salem, and you are ready to try new and untapped resources in the non-booze alcohol department, I would give it a try. I don't generally get food here, but they do have a pretty amazing array of fresh cheeses and meats that you can get as a platter. If it is desert, espresso, or things of that nature... this could also be your go-to place. I personally wouldn't go here every day, nor would I say it is one of my favorite places, but if you are up in Salem and are a bit adventurous, I would definitely take a trip to Gulu Gulu. Oh, did I mention they have board games???
(3)
Sea S.
We sat down, waited 45 minutes for our food, while the cook and our server ate dinner. The tables were dirty and so was the restaurant. Why does this place have such a good rating? We were fooled, hope you aren't.
(1)
Stephanie H.
I have been here on numerous occasions and just thought I have reviewed it before. I go atleast once a month (if not more) most every month. If you are in a rush it is not the place to go. It is a relaxed, laid back, cafe style place. Sandwiches, meat & Cheese platter, grape leaves, panini sandwiches, salads, crepes to name a few of the things that are great about the menu. The beer selection and coffee are all great. Wine menu is eh but decent enough. Service is 99% of the time very slow.
(4)
Meg M.
When you walk into Gulu Gulu, just BEING there makes you cooler. Okay so there may be a couple emo kids crying in the corner or some hipster kids trying to figure out a way to sit in their chairs with their tight pants on... but really? This place is awesome. My fiance took me here on a whim when we went on an adventure one sunny Sunday and I am so glad he did. Well, HO-LEE beer list was I happy to be there. Unfortunately we had already eaten a big lunch but next time I go in there I will go hungry. They have meat and cheese plates for extremely reasonable prices. They have so many unique sandwiches and vegetarian options that I seriously wanted to try 4 different selections and I wasn't even hungry. Ya know what else they have? Crepes. I saw em. They're legit. NEED to have them. The service was friendly and cool. We ordered some micro brews and I was pleased to see that they had my favorite beer (Victory Golden Monkey) for 5 bucks a bottle. Considering it's like drinking 2 beers at once, thats a good deal. The atmosphere of the place is chill, hip and inviting. I love love love the little Frenchie that they use as their mascot, and they sell some awesome shirts right off of the walls here. There is also an adorable outside seating area, but it was full when we arrived. They have a full list of live music on the chalk board for the entire month so you can scan ahead to see who you want to check out. I will be back for a full meal and a night out. It's the kind of place I could spend all night in. This is by far my favorite new spot, I just wish it was closer to Southie but in my opinion, it's worth the drive.
(5)
Sarah S.
There seems to be a theme in a lot of the reviews - tasty food, cool atmosphere, great beer selection and really super slow service. The first few times my family and I went to Gulu Gulu we went during lunch hour and we waited quite a bit for everything - menus, drinks, food, the check, etc... We decided this time we'd stop in during off hours - 3PM on a Saturday afternoon. The patio had one table open and there were plenty of tables open inside. We did receive menus promptly and we were very excited . Sigh...that's where the speed ended. Drinks - 2 sodas in bottles - took about 20 minutes to arrive. Sandwiches - another 30 minutes. Dessert did arrive pretty quickly though and was delicious - s'more crepe! The food, I'd give it 4 stars. The panini need to be pressed and not just toasted but are very good. It's the service that kills the rating. There's no reason in the world for sandwiches to take over 45 minutes - closer to an hour - to arrive.
(3)
M. A.
Regarding what I said in earlier reviews about the food? Scrap all that. They've severely jacked up prices on what used to be the affordable things, and the quantities, in some cases, have been cut in half. They just rolled out their new menu, and it has removed almost everything I ever ate here. And I'm sorry, I should not be paying as much for a Chicken Caesar Salad wrap as I would for a frigging piece of foie gras at Opus down the street. The drink menu's still pretty good (though anything mixed is way overpriced), but really, the only reason I ever come in now is habit, and the fact that friends sometimes come here, too. But I haven't eaten here in months. Such a shame.
(3)
Joe Z.
I like Gulu Gulu Cafe a lot. It's got a great bohemian feel to it. The food is excellent. They have really interesting sandwiches and a fantastic beer and wine selection. All is not perfect, however. The service tends to be on the slow side. And by slow I mean really slow. Another note of caution is that when it's busy, as it often is, it's very noisy. The cafe has mostly bare walls and floors so the sound bounces around a whole lot. I've only been there for lunch. I know that they have bands and DJ nights. I can't imagine what it sounds like for those events. The acoustic foam on the bottom of the stairs is just not cutting it folks.
(4)
Adam E.
Fruli beer is amazing, and this was the first place I saw it outside of Amsterdam. Good start! My girls and I had a few with our sandwiches here before facing the streets of Salem, and we were very glad we did. Because we needed a buffer. All those families and phobes who voted for Scott Brown, ugh. No thank you. So I was glad to find an oasis of hipness where I felt somewhat shielded from Nickleback and open stares. The staff here in the afternoon was fun and friendly, with none of that shitty superior attitude you get from "cool" kids in crappy towns.The patrons were another story. I understand the impulse, like "I'm the coolest person for miles, I can treat you like dump." It reeks of insecurity, but I get it. The DJ who asked us to move while we were mid-meal was an example of that. Luckily, our waitress told us not to pay him any mind. We didn't intend to, but appreciated her redemptive words. Sadly, she couldn't make up for the overcrowded room and schizophrenic mix of stroller-toting obnoxious families and cooler-than-thou jerks. On a less busy day, I think this place would be completely awesome, and I know it's not their fault that some of the patrons are kind of horrible, but it does impact the experience. The other negative was the evening, when we went to have a few drinks and dance. The goth girl (oh hi, 1994, good to see you again) at the door said the place was full when we stopped by, even though it was way more crowded that afternoon. I mean, Gulu Gulu is aight, but it feels like a little brother who wants so desperately to be rebellious and cool that it just comes off as super annoying. Or those girls in college who have the poster of the two girls in lingerie kissing. Please.
(3)
Jose G.
What a great little find!!!! we got there totally by accident on a recent trip to Salem from Florida and went back the next day for more. Yes, it was that cool!!! You will not be disapointed
(5)
Caitie R.
My boyfriend and I are pretty regular customers at Gulu Gulu. The atmosphere is laid back and the prices are pretty reasonable (it usually costs us about $25 or so for the both of us, including tip, depending on what we get). The food is delicious (I usually get a chicken salad wrap and I've also tried the "Berry Nice" crepe). Anywhere that has chai tea also gets points from me. All of the staff we've encountered has been really nice, as well. One of the only downsides to Gulu Gulu is the seating. I've only been to the cafe on one occasion when it was very full and had to wait only about ten or so minutes for a seat, which wasn't a problem, but having the option to sit where you want especially if you're coming here for food is key. I find sitting on the couches very hard if you're actually trying to enjoy a meal, but maybe that's just me.
(4)
Misty S.
Very happy that this opened in Salem! Great food, great beer, great wine, great coffee. And Jack and Max rock.
(4)
Jennifer P.
Ok so we were visiting on an off season weekend which sucked because it was rainy and cold and everything was closed. We were told about this place by the owner of the B&B we were staying at. So we decided to go in and get some coffee to warm up. Our waiter was Super and we had coffee with a kick mine was the Italian one with Amaretto and Frangelico and my gf had the chocolate mint one with peppermint schnapps. We also ordered warm banana bread and omg it was tasty and one order is 3-slices. Wow nothing like NYC and the prices were so reasonable. Too bad its alway the in Salem I would love to have the option of hanging out here on a weeknight especially for the live music they have. There's always something going on here....
(4)
Vanilla P.
Wonderful beer selection, slightly overpriced but worth it for the selection and recommendations by the staff. Our waitress was very knowledgeable about the different beers we asked about, which is lovely when you pretend to be cultured (us not her). Hummus: sucky Daily soup: yum, clam chowder Panini: warm and flavorful... I think it was the Barcelona. Service: friendly. We went around 2 and the place was empty, so our waitress was very attentive and helpful with suggestions.
(4)
Kimberly H.
I was bringing a friend to Salem while she was in town visiting and needed some fuel before starting our dorky witch hunting excursions. We noticed Gulu Gulu Cafe from across the street and hopped inside. Right off the bat I loved the feel of the place. It was a little bit artsy and a lot bit inviting. My friend in Gluten intolerant and were so happy to see that they offered a Gluten free tortilla on all of their wraps. Since I (for now) still have a stomach of steel I went for the Istanbul Panini: smoked turkey, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and pesto on grilled bread. I asked for fresh basil to be added (doooo it) and it was just perfect! You know you have a good sandwich on your hands when you don't even think about needing additional condiments. All of the sandwiches come with a small lightly dressed salad and potato chips ... you don't even make me choose? ... Gulu Gulu we are going to be good friends. We also grabbed a couple of meats and cheeses from the charcuterie menu and were stuffed! That being said our server offered us a Gluten free blueberry pie and of course we adjusted our belts and went for it. The pie crust was not my favorite, but hey, it was something we could both eat. The filling was good enough that I would order it again. Will most definitely be back next time I am in Salem!
(4)
Anna S.
I have been back a few times, and I just need to reiterate what a fantastic restaurant this is. I have dragged family, friends, and new lovers to this place. Every single time the food is fresh and unbelievably yummy. The service is great, the people watching is great, and the drinks are great. I can't give Gulu Gulu cafe a high enough recommendation. Please keep this awesome place in business!
(5)
Salem X.
One day, the elder beer Gods got together for a meeting in their palace high atop a Belgian mountain range. All six of the Gods were present for this very special occasion: Vera, Mickey, Fritz, Olaf, Lord Rumplebottom and Paco. The purpose of the meeting was to create a place with just a dozen or so taps, but whose taps would have such varied quality beers that it would rival even the most over tapped beer snob hang outs. Vera suggested the place should serve cheese. Mickey insisted it remain open late into the night, with a full menu. Fritz said it should have the Cojones to serve seasonal beers at any time of the year, regardless of season. Olaf proclaimed there shall be music and movies the help pass the time while drinking. Lord Rumplebottom growled that prices should be reasonable and service friendly. Paco didn't say much of anything - he was wasted. But through his drunken stupor, he was able to mumble something about how the place should be located in Salem, Massachusetts on the Eastern Coast of the US; all agreed. And so the Gulu Gulu Cafe was born.
(4)
Sharon L.
Love Gulu Gulu! Great beer selection, sandwiches are awesome and hte crepes are even better (especially the nutella one). Only downside is its slightly chaotic trying to find a seat when crowded. Other than that the food, atmosphere, and music always makes for a fun time!
(4)
Caroline D.
This place is ok if you like noise. I used to live in Salem and my housemate and I would go there on occasion. We went for coffee and desert never really food. Coffee was decent and desert as well. On occasion we did try to go there for food but they either weren't serving, ran out of a bunch of stuff or it was too loud for us to stay. See, they often have local bands and stuff going on to really try and get a cafe vibe going on. Unfortunately they don't regulate the sound at all and it ends up being a total downer. This place does try really hard at being a European styled cafe with food, coffee and beer but the coffee could be better, the food isn't always the best if they have what you want at all and the noise level on evenings in wicked.
(3)
Daisy M.
This place is a jewel in the neighborhood- a great place to hang with friends, play cards or a board game, or listen to some live music at night. We've tried most of their savory crepes, and breakfast crepes, too. Sandwiches, soups, salads cappuccino, all excellent! Portions are good, food is VERY FRESH, and prices are also good. The ambiance is hip and lively. Pros: outdoor patio dining, great coffee drinks, and CREPES ; ) Cons: noisy; service is a bit slow, so we just don't go here if we're rushed or stressed.
(4)
Cindy M.
What a great place to just sit back and relax! My boyfriend and I visited Gulu over the weekend and we were quite impressed with the whole vibe of the place and will definitely be going back some time soon. I know a few people have commented on the nightlife in this establishment however we were there during the day and found it quite pleasant. I had a cappuccino that was out of this world! When I took my spoon to try the foam, it seemed like I was digging into a decadent dessert. The beer list is quite extensive and impressive. We didn't have anything to eat but are planning on getting a bite when we return!!
(4)
Annie M.
This place is awesome. I'm here at least twice a month. The menu doesn't change very often, which is my only complaint, as I am lactose intolerant and can't really eat any of the paninis. The food is AMAZING though. Everything is great and the prices are very good. The service has always been wonderful when I'm here, and the same few waiters are usually working. They are very nice and accommodating to your needs. There's definitely a strong hipster vibe here, which provides for some great people watching when you're with friends. The weirdest thing happened the other night though- I went to dinner here on an open mic night Wednesday, and one of the guys "warming up" on stage was just playing the same note over and over again on a kazoo or some little train horn thing... if that makes sense... anyways it was really odd but we laughed about it! I think they cater, too! One thing that should be noted- Gulu Gulu does not sell Coke/Pepsi products, but they do have a "Curiosity Cola" that is local/organic instead, although it doesn't taste like coke at all.
(4)
Kylie H.
YAY! I love it. I can't say anything about their food because I haven't eaten here yet, but they have a great beer selection. Anywhere that has Victory Golden Monkey reasonably priced I'm a fan of. Amazing atmosphere here as well. I am looking forward to going back to try their food.
(4)
Miss B.
I've been going to this Gulu-Gulu and the original location in Lynn (now closed) since they opened. I really appreciate the unique ambiance and eclectic selection of beers and wines, not to mention the many vegetarian options on the menu! I'm a big fan of the cheese platter, the spiced cider, the delicious variety of sweet or savory crepes (don't make me choose a favorite!) and I often get the Cranberry Salad- but there are others that are equally tasty. They have art by local artist featured and for sale on the walls, they show movies or sometimes have live music. I've noticed the service isn't as good as it used to be, however. The last time I went there, there was a sign that told us to go inside if we wanted patio seating. Then when we got inside, there was a sign at the hostess desk telling us to seat ourselves. We waited for a few minutes by the host podium, but nobody greeted us and the place seemed busy, so we then decided to seat ourselves at a table outside. We waited again for about 5-10 minutes without anyone coming to us. We noticed some people leaving so we went back inside to see if there were any empty tables yet. There were, so we sat ourselves. After several more minutes, someone came over and took our drink order and served us. Once we finally got served, the service was courteous and attentive. I think that the wait staff here have too much on their hands, and that they are a bunch of local students that don't really care about the restaurant. The place is doing really well for itself these days, so maybe the owners don't realize what's going on as far as the customer experience goes. I think the pricing is right-on for fresh, unique ingredients like the stuff served here. The portions aren't huge, but it's really more of a cafe, not a dinner place. I think this a great place for a date, provided you're not in a rush or starving, because the service might take some time...
(3)
JR D.
I've been to Gulu Gulu a couple times now, mainly for a late breakfast on weekdays. Apparently it's a perfect time because it's never super busy, although there's always a few tables. The coffee drinks are unique from what I've typically seen. Granted, I go to Starbucks and my extent of a unique drink is a pumpkin spice latte, but the drinks are interesting enough for me to try (i.e. Creme brulee latte, Andes latte, etc). Everything I've had is delicious. I'm definitely a beer kinda gal, and this place has a great selection. It's a good range of different types of beer, so almost any beer drinker you go with will be satisfied. I noticed today that they have Spaten Oktoberfest on the list, which means I will be headed there soon just for that. Wine selection looked vast as well, and my friends talk about how they have absinthe on the menu in a favorable manner. The food menu is outstanding. Crepes any time of the day? Yes please! Breakfast sandwiches with your not so typical ingredients (prosciutto egg and manchego cheese, DROOL!). Paninis that come in all kinds. A meat and cheese plate that my friend RAVES about. Vegetarian options available for the no-meat-eaters. It really caters to just about anyone that walks in, and I love that. Service is always friendly, and yeah, it's not super fast, but usually when I go in, I'm not looking to run in and out. They seem to have a ton of "events" in the evenings, from movie nights to open mic nights to DJs to bands to whatever else you can think of. I've only been in once for an evening, and it was over a year ago, so other than the fact that I went and had good beer, I don't remember it, so I couldn't tell ya how the atmosphere is in the evening. I do remember it being pretty packed, though. I highly recommend this place to someone who likes good food and beer, with an almost coffeehouse atmosphere to it. Try to grab a couch if you can on a night when you want to cozy up to your honey! I will definitely be returning to Gulu Gulu and will hopefully have an opportunity to try EVERYTHING on the mouth watering menu!
(4)
Kira K.
I like this place because it's laid back, has fun staff, and the food is good. It appeals to meat-eaters and vegetarians alike as well as coffee drinkers and beer drinkers. There is something for everyone. The thing I really like about Gulu Gulu is that it's completely un-hipster. A lot of the coffee places that I've been to that offer live entertainment or have beer on tap seem to be the types of places that you want to be seen at. Not so with Gulu Gulu. It's just a bunch of real people with real appetites looking for a great bite to eat and something good to drink. The service does run on the slow side, but order a beer, slow down and enjoy. It is a very calming atmosphere. Let it sink in. It's a great place to take a friend or loved one to eat if you actually want to have a conversation. You're never seated too close to anyone else, it's never so loud that you can't hear each other, and depending on how close you are, there are a couple of cozy couches to sit on together and enjoy the live music. This is always my go-to lunch spot when I go to the Peabody Essex Museum.
(4)
Tamara D.
This is an overall good review for Gulu Gulu. I only have one negative. I've been going to Gulu Gulu for over two years now. What can I say?? I love the food, the atmosphere and the awesome service. The artwork on the walls are always a good conversation starter. The different types of music and people always make it very interesting. There are so many different types of foods to choose from. I usually stick with the Paninis or the wraps. My favorite sandwiches are the Great Porto and the Palermo. Sooooooooo good. The Mac n Cheese is a taste sensation. Almost.... Almost.... as good as my own. Danny is always great and makes the best coffee concoctions. He also makes very good recommendations on food choices. I always end up trying something new and loving it. Sue Ann (SJ) is also another great server. Drinks are always refilled and she is always around to see if you need anything. She is always very happy. She's also very fast and you are never left waiting. I would advise to not have Katie wait on you. I've only had her once and she was subpar at best. I thought maybe she was having an off night and decided to brush off that negative experience. However, last night I was able to observe her once again. She still wasn't friendly and seemed to have a scowl tattooed on her face. I actually felt sorry for the patrons being waited on by her. I know she is fairly new. Hopefully, she will learn that a smile goes a long way and to check her bad day at the door before she clocks in for work. The customers shouldn't suffer for it. Gulu Gulu ranks high on my list of favorite restaurants in Salem. I usually go like twice a month. I always recommend it to family, friends, and coworkers. It's good, fun, reasonable and well.... I just like it!
(4)
Teju P.
I randomly stopped in here with my family, and we thought its was alright. What is excellent: Service Atmosphere Italian Soda Goat Cheese/Roasted Red Pepper Mac & Cheese Portobella, Spinach, and Basil crepe What is NOT excellent: Viennesse Vegetarian panini - very small Sweet Crepe with Green Apples, Strawberry, Almond, and honey (name is escaping me now) very crunch and difficult to eat because the contents kept breaking the crepe.
(3)
Bruno C.
Looking for a "cool" place to hang out in this witchy tourist town? Good people and good food. Our waitress was warm, welcoming and made us feel at home. Creative types would find the atmosphere pleasing. The service was great, but as with any coffee house style eatery, you're not going there for super-speedy service - relax. Check out their website if you're planning to be in the area since they have some cool events and entertainment.
(4)
Scott F.
Like everything about it BUT service can be a little too relaxed.
(4)
Mike H.
This is a fun place. The coffee drinks are fantastic, and the beer selection is superb. The food is quite good. Keep in mind that it's more cafe and less restaurant. The table service is terrible. It's not bad as in the staff is busy, it's bad as in the staff is apathetic. The flip side to this is that the bartenders are fantastic. They know their beers and can help you pick out something you'll like.
(3)
Lauren V.
Even though I had a great time at Gulu Gulu Cafe, I thought "maybe I shouldn't let my personal experience impact the rating", but then I smartened up and thought "clearly Gulu Gulu is a place that is conducive to good times". And so, the four star rating stands. I came here with 7 other people on a Thursday night. We turned two corners of the restaurant into our own little gypsy camps until we were able to snag a table. The waitress didn't seem to mind our migratory pattern and was able to stay on top of our numerous drink, cake and crepe orders. She wasn't the most friendly, but I had enough people to chat with and she did her job fine so no bother. Each night has a theme. Thursday night was live music. There is a fairly-large stage (considering the overall size of the place) and the acoustics aren't too bad. It might have been nice if the band was a bit more ambient or quiet- there was a lot of musical chairs as we tried to accommodate conversation over the music. On a side note, I was not a huge fan of the band coming around and asking everyone for money. We had been sitting down for about 5 minutes when a band member came over, whined (ok, not really) that they weren't getting paid by the bar and held out his hand. Kind of awkward. When my sister mentioned she didn't carry cash, he asked "You don't? Weird." Anyways, they have a big list of wines, beers (not crap beers either) and cocktails. If you are DD, there are Italian sodas, coffees, teas and smoothies. I would definitely recommend a piece of Chocolate Mousse Cake and although I did not personally try one, each crepe had about a 2 minute life span once it landed on our table. I will definitely be back.
(4)
Richard D.
I stopped in here with a friend after a day of cycling around the area. We grabbed a couch in the back with a coffee table. They have a pretty good wine list and the salmon crepes were fantastic. The waitress was perfect: she didn't hover (the place was not very busy at 4:30), but was attentive enough and quick to refill both water and wine glasses (important after a hot day of cycling). I'll be back!
(4)
Amanda Z.
Heard about this place from a bunch of co-workers that live down the street from it. Has a very chill atmosphere with an eccentric array of seating. Wait staff is very nice. I went on a Friday in the late afternoon and there was only one waitress. As the place started to fill up and orders came in she was able to keep up with everyone and not make anyone feel like they were having to wait for their food. They have live shows there, though I didn't stay long enough that night to see who was performing. Excellent beer selection, fantastic chowder!
(4)
John G.
Just an incredible place. I took a day trip to Salem last Sunday by myself and pulled up a barstool at the Gulu Gulu Cafe. From start to finish just a wonderful experience. Not much that I can add that hasn't already been said. Great beer selection, awesome atmosphere. I would like to pay tribute to the staff here last Sunday. Both bartenders were attentive and cool and the waitresses were jovial and engaging (is is Yelp-professional to say that they were HOT too? Probably Not.) I'll be taking another daytrip to Salem soon cos I do love that town, and I'll definitely be back the Gulu Gule Cafe.
(5)
Frank B.
I really, really want to like this place. Coming from Davis Square in Somerville, I've been spoiled by great, funky, unique places to grab a beer/bite/coffee. So now that I live in the land of "gothic revival", I was glad to see such a place open up. I've been to Gulu-Gulu about a dozen times, for a variety of purposes: tea while i get work done; beers with friends; lunch; night out to listen to music. In each case, there are a few recurring themes. First, the service is astoundingly slow, even when the place is empty. I know its trying to through out the euro chillax avec cafe thing. But seriously, if I'm making repeated eye contact, come over. And how long does it take to pull a draft of beer? Second, the place is over-priced. For $8, a sandwhich had better be amazing. They're OK, but nothing to get excited about (to contrast, see Dave's Fresh Pasta in the aforementioned square). The crepes taste gritty and bland, sort of like tortillas before they've been fried. Ok, so some good news? The music is usually pretty good and not too loud. The beer selection is great, though it SEVERELY suffers a lack of affordable (less than $4.50) options. Hello? High Life? Or at least some Polish equivalent? The sandwiches are pretty good, and the atmosphere creative. Improvements to the quality, speed of service, and price of beer would easily make this a 5-star rating and a place to treasure in my new digs. We'll see if they get the message. Word.
(3)
angela h.
Seems like this place strikes a nerve with people- either great or terrible. Well, for me it is GREAT. I've gone twice- once on a very busy late Sunday morning, and another time on a not as busy early Friday evening. The food is unlike most other eating establishments. You're not gonna be eating burgers and fries here, and that's a-okay with me. Sandwiches are delicious with interesting combinations and ingredients. Basically, great food, great drinks, great beer, great service.
(5)
Maria V.
I thought I had reviewed this place. . . oops! I enjoy a place where not only can i get a drink with friends, but we don't have to scream into each others ears in order to be heard. The Gulu Gulu offers such an environment. They offer a hefty selection of beers and wine, although thus far I've only tried the martinis (tasty!). They also have an assortment of non-alcoholic bevs and coffees. As far as food, I have only had some apps and a crepe, but they were delicious (mmm smoked salmon and arugula). There is an assortment of tables, cozy chairs and a couch in which to enjoy aforementioned treats. They feature local artwork on the walls and have game nights, open mic, bands and movies. All in all, this is one of my favorite discoveries on the North Shore.
(4)
Ray T.
Amazing place!! Great beer selection and vegetarian and vegan options! The vegan chili is one of my favorites.
(5)
Saleem N.
Always great. Everything is priced right ant good enough to try different items. Wish one of these were closer to me. Would go all the time.
(5)
Kamila P.
best breakfast sandwich ever!!!! the spinwich is so legit!
(5)
Justina P.
Very tasty meals that are fresh and presented lovely. Very nice options; from a verity of teas to fresh made sandwiches with goat cheese. Yum!! Quiet-ish and nice calm vide. (:
(4)
CE D.
I find the awful reviews of this place & the "awful hipster staff" hilarious and many of them sound like they were written by awful hipsters themselves. I'm no fan of the bearded skinny pant wearing crowd but if my choices are between hipsters in flannel and New England rednecks in jerseys and turtlenecks, I prefer the hipster joints because they have at least heard of serving a vegetable. I enjoyed my first visit here for breakfast so much that I returned later that night it coffee and drinks and then again for breakfast the next morning. The crêpes were delicious and the drink selections were on point--great beers and nice coffee options. The service was less efficient (but not bad) than I would maybe have liked at some points but to be honest as a NYer I find most places outside of my area slow anyway. One thing that irked me was that you cannot get a freaking glass of water in this joint OR anywhere else in Salem without having to practically beg for it. What the heck?! Gulu Gulu was a cute spot where we were able to bring our dog and not very expensive. If/when in Salem again we will once again stop in!
(4)
Richard D.
I've been here a few times and love Gulu's electric vibe.
(5)
Dave L.
Wow, Yelp really hit a home run on this one. We came to the Salem Witch Museum in the morning and then spent about an hour letting our boys play in the Salem Common. When it was time for lunch, I looked at Yelp and found Gulu Gulu Cafe. This place is funky and fun and cool and has really good food. It is located in a beautiful little square in downtown Salem, which has a funky, fun, and cool vibe to it. We came at lunch time on a Sunday. The restaurant was busy, but we were seated right away. They have a bar that serves coffee and tea. They also have a very good craft beer list that emphasizes local brews. I ordered a charcuterie plate and a Mediterranean salad to split with my wife. The salad was excellent - fresh, very little dressing so the taste of the veggies and feta came through. The meat and cheese on my charcuterie plate was very good. It was served with a good sized plate of toasted French bread. The goat cheese I ordered was very mild and the salami and hot cappicola were great. The iced tea was also very good. I also ate some of my son's hummus plate. The hummus was served with a generous portion of veggies - celery, carrots, cucumbers - and pita. The hummus was pretty mild. Service here was decent. Our server looked like a surf dude. He was okay, but kind of slow. Overall, the food was reasonably priced for the amount and quality. If I lived in the Salem area, this would probably be one of my favorites. The only reason I am not giving five stars is the slow service and kitchen.
(4)
Nicole S.
Went to Gulu Gulu tonight for a late meal with our kids. Ate outside and had fun, nice feel. Had theeeee best vanilla latte ever! Props to the guy who made my drink. Had the veggie crepe. A little too much goat cheese, but otherwise good. Husband had a turkey panini. It had apple butter and he liked the combo. Kids had breakfast sandwiches, which they both liked. Even better was the chocolate milk, very chocolatey, which they loved! We all rated the meal on a scale of 1 to 10, and the average was an 8.5. Which is good for us. Btw, the meal cost us $38.00, which was the most inexpensive meal we've had all week! And, our waitress was very nice. A great experience!
(4)
Sara F.
This is probably my favorite place ever for drinks, music, and enjoying the company of good people. It is not my favorite place for food. I love the bands that play here. They are always super unique but good. Funky and fun music that hipstets of all ages can enjoy. I love the environment. The tables and chairs are miss matched, there is contemporary art on the walls, there are games to play, and everyone in the cafe looks like they could be my friend. I just feel so happy and at home! This is the kind of place I want to come to on my birthday! The drinks are great! Huge selection of beer! I just don't really care for anything on the menu. I want to like the food, but it is just not for me. Maybe I am choosing the wrong things? I will continue to try items on the menu, hoping to find something I'll love.
(4)
Allison W.
Love it! First of all, they have adorable pugs and Boston terriers on their door and glassware. Winning me over already. And an outdoor patio! Then their food was interesting and delicious. I had a smoked turkey panini, with havarti cheese, arugula, dijon mustard, and apple butter. Awesome flavor combination, and a big sandwich. I also had an americano and their espresso was quite good. They have a make-your-own crepe option with a very wide variety of nice cheeses, veggies, meats, and sauces, as well as sweet crepes. For dessert, I tried the blueberry/walnut/brie crepe, which was not that good... The brie was just in chunks unevenly hidden in the crepe, and the blueberries were whole (delish) but the drawback was that they kept falling out. The brie should have been melted more, which would have held the blueberries down. It was meh. Service was also extremely slow, but my overall rating is still a 4 for the cute decor and nice outdoor seating, and mostly great food. Would def go back.
(4)
Stefanie H.
Favorite place in Salem! Great beer selection, delicious food and great live music/entertainment. Be prepared to stay a while!
(5)
Erik S.
One of the best spots on the North Shore for a wide selection on tap! Their food leaves something to be desired, though I can't say I've had everything on their menu yet. I typically get pizza next door at Flying Saucer and then head to Gulu-Gulu for drinks and some live music.
(4)
Justin K.
My favorite place to work long hours and people watch fascinating people. When sipping coffee gets old I switch to beer without moving seats!
(4)
Mike M.
Food is great but the business is in serious need of introspection. The service here is absolute garbage. Servers are impossibly slow and marvelously inattentive. They never have 3/4 of the alcohol on their menu in stock. Poorly managed and lazy to a fault. Doubt I'll be back.
(2)
Tiffany G.
My husband and I were in Salem for 4 days and this place was the first place we went to eat, we returned 4 times. The first night I ordered the Istanbul and my husband got the Nice, for desert we had a s'mores crepe that we shared, we were so impressed we ate there again the next day I had the nice and he had the chicken cordon bleu crepe, we came back again for breakfast the next two mornings, we can't say enough good things about the food, the staff, and the atmosphere, we felt completely at home. I wish we lived near there we would be there at least 3 nights a week.
(5)
Bob D.
Look - there are restaurants that have booze and there are bars with food. Gulu is a bar with (good) grub....but a bar first; as for the reviews here complaining that the food was subpar or the table service was sketchy? Yeah, you missed the point. You're in a bar. If you want dinner you should have gone to Church St....and please take your screaming 9 year old kid while you're at it - at least he has the common sense to realize he doesn't belong at a bar. On the OTHER hand, if you want a bar? Keep reading.... So, you're out for drinks? Good, life is short - let's enjoy it. Now Gulu isn't Drink or Eastern Standard; if you want a bow tied, handlebar mustachioed bartender mixing up wild tinctures with exotic liquors you're going to head elsewhere. Gulu sells beer. ....but, man, do they sell it. Quite possibly my favorite BEER bar in the area. The selection is phenomenal and changes rapidly. No InBev, no Boston Beer Co, no Coors-Miller: awesome imports and microbrews. The bartenders speak beer and, better still, will speak to you about it. The music is eclectic (go online and make sure it speaks to you) as is the crowd. Always pretty friendly, though. Plus, as folks have said, the food is solid for a bar; kinda hipstery - no hamburgers but good crepes. Oh, and tip the bartender. They make the magic happen.
(5)
Alex W.
Hands down the best beer selection in the area, The Gulu is frequently jam packed with its younger, more "hipster" clientele. It is a very lively and relaxed atmosphere and the place is scattered with arm chairs, couches, and benches. It is seat your self and if you want food it can take a while to come out. That being said the food is also a bit expensive however it is well worth it with dishes ranging from excellent grilled sandwiches to make your own cheese and meat plates and both savory and sweet crepes. Unfortunately they do not have a full liquor licensee so mixed drinks are out, however their many craft beers and specialty martinis are a good alternative. The Gulu plays host to bands, open mic nights, comedians, and is also an art gallery, ensuring its always a lively spot. On the other end of that don't expect to have quiet conversation or leave the place without spending some money.
(3)
Tom P.
First of all, I can't believe someone would give this place only 2 stars because the music was loud on a live music night. Anyway, I fully agree this is the coolest place to hang out in Salem-area, and no, you don't have to have tattoos or a hip outift to have fun. Just a good attitude. Generally, you get what you give out in terms of how you are treated. That said, of course the live music is always goiong to be hit-or-miss: it's not Comcast Center. But when it's good, it's real good. When it's not so good...well, there are plenty of other cafes in Salem to hang out in that evening... Dozens of beers you've probably never heard of. Try the Kôlsch, Pork Slap, or Delerium Tremens, which is a crisp, refreshing beer with hints of pear, clove and banana. WOWEE Great wine selection, delicious sandwiches, cheeses and salads, and fast- friendly service where the servers actually work as a unit instead of individuals. This supremely enhances the customer experience, to all other servers reading this review... They also have a glass case loaded with board games and a huge table in the middle of the room to play them on. Comfy couches, old chairs, and a very inviting, open and "cool" atmosphere, this place is more of a must-visit in Salem than any witch musuem or haunted house.
(4)
Brynn C.
This place was super great. We loved our food (I had a cheese plate, she had a lox bagel), the atmosphere was great, the selection was well thought out, the staff was attentive and helpful.
(5)
Hilary W.
I wish I could give them 5 stars, because the food really did deserve that! My grape leaf wrap was amaaaazing (a bit expensive but that's ok). It was the service that knocks my review down two stars. Our server was seriously not with the program! She kept on blaming the kitchen and saying how busy they had been earlier...Ok, it's 3pm and we're here for two wraps. It should not take 45 minutes, even if you were busy earlier! She completely forgot about a table next to us and they had to get their menus themselves. I would go back for the delicious food, but mentally prepare myself for way too long of a wait for a sandwich.
(3)
Christopher M.
I've long said that the measure of great service is not how you're treated when everything goes well, but how you're treated when things fall apart. I've also been elite for quite some time now. I've written my fair share of one and two star reviews. In four years, I've gotten quite used to owner/management feedback. The reactions have been mixed, from ambivalence to anger, concern to caring. I've been invited and enticed back, thanked for my feedback, sworn at, and all but banned from two establishments (though one I still won't go near for fear of castration). But today the bar was set exponentially higher for managers who take customer feedback seriously. No there were no bands or roped off areas for me. I didn't receive special treatment. No one kissed my ass. Instead, the manager came over to me, smiled and greeted me, then joined me for lunch. We chatted about life, careers, and of course customer service. I told her about my experiences here from the past several years both good and bad. We talked about what makes great customer service, and things that can get in the way. I'm still stunned by her concern and drive to correct all issues here. I can't say enough about her sincerity, and her love of this cafe that drives her to make it better every day. I'm rarely taken aback by management especially when I've have less than stellar experiences, but today's lunch really made me realize that this is the same Gulu-Gulu cafe I fell in love with years ago, it's just growing and expanding, and changing for the better. Sadly, that sometimes means new employees who need a bit more guidance and time to get into a solid groove. But with a solid manager at the helm who takes customer feedback seriously and uses it to correct issues immediately I'm convinced that the bumps I felt will be VERY short-lived. Of course an establishment can't earn five stars based solely on its manager. The cafe is relaxed, fun, inviting, and calming. The beer selection is excellent. The tea is fantastic. The menu is wonderful, and features and wonderful meat and cheese selections, fun paninis, and fantastic desserts. Really, this place is a gem.
(5)
Jim H.
I loved this place. I had the meat and cheese plate for lunch. It was the perfect selection for lunch. They have an awesome selection of beer. Try the cheese plate and enjoy a beer or two. If so inclined, try a salad or a sandwich. They look awesome also.
(4)
Chelsea C.
I love the gulu gulu cafe! such a cute little place! GREAT service! and nice employees! I love hanging out with my friends there! It's a great place to mellow out and relax.
(5)
Lisa N.
This is a cute place. I love the ambiance. The Chai Tea isn't the best, I wouldn't get it again. However, the tuna melt was good! They also had a lot of beers on tap and I can't recall what the bf ordered, but it was good! Service was great. Their "mascot" was a bulldog so they have pictures of him up on the wall and on their beer cups. Cute!
(4)
Michele G.
Chicken pesto crepe is gigantic! Cool place to settle in among the other laptop warriors and get some grub. Love it that they host art openings and serve not just caffeine, but booze.
(3)
Felicia K.
Holeee shit. I'm sure I can't really write anything that hasn't already been written. The food and drink are 5 stars; lost a star for mediocre, but friendly service. Can be hard to get a seat sadly, but definitely worth the wait if it isn't too ridiculous.
(4)
Katherine H.
great healthy food. my friends tell me that its to "hipster" but why should it matter the food is awesome and everyones nice to you! Love the Gulu Always. PS They should bring back the Sunday night drag shows those were a lot of fun. :)
(5)
Roman K.
Awesome place with delicious crepes (guys, use more salt!!!) and huge Cappuccinos.
(4)
Milana G.
Awesome. Great atmosphere and an amazing menu. I am basically obsessed with paninis (who isn't though...) and the Barcelona was the best panini I've had in months. Even their chips were killing it...crispy, but not too salty or oily. And they had hot apple cider, PERFECT for the snowy mess that was going on outside. The chocolate/nutella/banana dessert crepe was a phenom too, but good luck saving room to eat it! I thought I was gambling, taking my mentor here for lunch, but I was seriously impressed and so was she! Can't wait to go back!!!
(5)
Chubbs L.
Great place! The beer selection is second to none and the food is also very good. I enjoy the surroundings and the people who work there. It's one of the few places I feel like I can sit at the bar and relax. They always seem to have an excellent selection of imperial and regular ipa's on draft as well.
(5)
Tristan H.
This restaurant spent too much money on trying to look cool and hip that they forgot how to be a restaurant. Pitiful service. My French Onion soup had a slice... That's right... A slice of SWISS cheese on it.
(2)
Julie C.
Gulu Gulu- gulp gulp. If anything, come here for the beers. They have a really good beer list and there is something for everyone. Of course, sometimes the specials they list are sold out. Bummer! Grab a seat at a table or even the couches and relax. My bf and I came here and sat on the couch, order a couple of the Fisherman's Pumpkin Stout and goofed around while playing trivial pursuit.. We also ordered the hummus and veggie plate along with tabouli.. the veggies were fresh and crisp. Having already ate at another place, we didn't really get to try anything. Out server was really nice and bothered us at the right times, when our glasses were empty. I really enjoy the chill atmosphere of Gulu Gulu. It has a really cool vibe. This is definitely a great spot to grab a few drinks and enjoy your company.
(5)
Christie N.
My wife and I come here all the time. We love this place so much that we went here for our post-wedding brunch. I also spent many hours here studying for the bar - the waitresses are very cool about letting you linger and are very attentive. The food is consistently amazing and fresh, and the beer selection is expansive. (Only one complaint - the restrooms need a good cleaning. Probably totally not their fault though because it looks like they share bathrooms with the restaurant next door.) All in all, though - this place rocks. And anyone we take here loves it and wants to come back as a regular. My favorites: The bagel and lox platter, cheese & meat board, bruschetta, and of course - crepes!
(4)
E S.
Nice lunch spot! Went this past weekend between appointments for an earlier lunch. We were seated right away, but service in general was on the slow side (seemed like there was only one, maybe two, servers taking care of the whole place, inside and out). Food was creative, but simple. A delicious turkey-pesto-mozz-tomato panini came with the unexpected bonus of a small greens salad and chips. And the chicken Caesar salad was nice too- spinach instead of lettuce and nice dressing on the lighter side. Overall, worth the price, and a comfortable place to spend some time. Cozy and kitschy without being too hipster.
(4)
Kristin C.
We came here for a late lunch and left quite satisfied. Pros: Great selection of draft beers, delicious food, reasonable prices, fun atmosphere Cons: Service was quite slow. Don't come here if you're in a rush! Also, while self seating might work during a less busy time of year, we found it to be a bit awkward on a Saturday in October. I'd highly recommend getting a cheese plate! You can choose any 3 cheeses for $9, served with toasted ciabatta. The husband and I both had paninis ($8-9) which came with chips and a nice little side salad. Despite the slow service, we'd definitely go back!
(4)
Kristin W.
Great beer. Delicious crepes. Yummy paninis. You really can't go wrong... Unless you're turned off by some interesting local characters. Fave Beers: -Southern Tier Unearthly Imperial IPA, (NY) - draft -Weihenstephaner Vitus, 16.9oz (GER) - bottle Fave Eats: -The Essjay Panini -Portobello Mushroom, Spinach and Basil Crepe -Barcelona Panini And, for what it's worth, I am determined to become a regular at Gulu Gulu.
(4)
Rachel P.
I've come to love the Gulu over the past two years - I didn't think I would like this hipster cafe that doesn't even have ketchup, but you can't deny good food. I always get a cheese & meat plate, and the chicken cordon bleu crepe is delicious. I'm not a beer drinker at all, and I've even found 2 I like at the Gulu! You can hang out and play games or use the wi-fi as long as you want (just tip your server for the space, please).
(5)
Jennifer L.
Gulu Gulu is one of my favorite places to relax with a cold beverage, a crossword puzzle, & people watch. It's nestled into a cozy location in the heart of downtown Salem, has friendly helpful staff, & an impressive beer menu featuring multiple local brews. Being vegan, I can't speak much to the food; I had the hummus dish & thoroughly enjoyed it.
(5)
Jason N.
I love the gulu. I only get there every few months but it's worth it! They have great sandwiches and specialty crepes which are always great. They also have musicians and open-mic nights every week and theres a schedule for those on their website. Just be warned it does get very crowded for those events. The reason I'm bumping it down to 4 stars is because some of the servers are super pretentious. It's a wicked hipster hangout. Sometimes it's alright but other times it can make you feel a bit uncomfortable if you're not the artsy type.
(4)
Steward P.
Pretty good stuff here. Good vibe in the place, sometimes they play movies on a big screen which is cool, but they don't put the sound up enough. Their drinks are great, their sandwiches are delicious, good snacks, they gotta a lotta good beers. I've seen some decent bands playing there before, and I know people say sometimes they would have a free Wii to play! The only downside is the place does get filled with a buncha trendy obnoxious salem/college/hipster doofuses. Expect to see a bunch of "ironic" mustaches, smelly kids in leather with mohawks, or thick framed glasses on the nerds on their iPads. Besides that, this is a great place to get a snack and chill out for a bit.
(4)
Michael D.
Ok, you've read the reviews about the beer selection and I'm going to start off by saying it's top notch. You won't find a better beer menu on the North Shore. It's always a treat walking in there simply to see what they have on tap or in bottles. It changes constantly so be sure to ask the waitress or the bartender for up to date beer menus. I've visited this place for breakfast, lunch and dinner and it succeeds on all fronts. The breakfast menu has a wide selection from your traditional breakfast sandwiches to crepes of all styles. They have a selection of pastries but the tastiest is the cinnamon swirl but you have to get there early enough because that's usually the first pastry to sell out. The coffee is delicious too and the mugs give you a great serving size of coffee or tea if you prefer. The lunch and dinner menu are pretty much the same. The meat and cheese combo is a great order, allowing you to choose which meats and cheeses you would like to have. I really enjoyed it but felt it was more to snack on than for a meal. I usually order the chicken ceasar wrap with chips. Its tasty and keeps me full for a long time. To warn you, this place is a hangout spot so the servers do take their time between visiting your table but I've never felt forgotten or mistreated. So, if you go don't be in such a rush. Reeeeeelax a bit. Also, seating can be tough on the weekends especially around lunch time so plan accordingly. Outdoor seating area is also available if you want to enjoy a beautiful day while you eat.
(4)
Jeff P.
Wow, the Barcelona Panino was amazing. Nice service too!
(4)
Kristi W.
I love Gulu Gulu Cafe. It is a great place to sit, chill, talk, and people watch. At night they have live music and the scene is very chill and relaxed. They have an awesome selection of beer and the staff is very friendly. My only complaint about this place is sometimes the servers are a bit slow with your order or to get your check. But other than that ... I love this place. The sandwiches are great and I love the coffee!
(4)
Alex P.
One of my very favorite spots to hangout in Salem. They have, by far, the best import beer selection in town, great mixed drinks, and awesome coffee, not to mention, fun, eclectic food, which is great for sharing. Whenever we bring new people to Salem, the Gulu-Gulu is at the top of the list of places to go!
(5)
Tom F.
Just had lunch here -- I was surprised at how good it was. This place is very kid-friendly and casual -- sort of reminds me of a place you'd find in San Francisco or Seattle. Laid back and, dare I say, almost hip . An extensive beer list -- from all around the world and country (bottles and draft). I had a Hop Notch IPA (from a brewery in Salt Lake City) -- the waitress recommended it. And it was delicious. Then, an Italian Panini and Lentil soup -- both were better than what I expected. The sandwich came with kettle chips and a little salad with italian peppers. The Lentil soup had a kick of curry and spice, and was really savory. The waitress was helpful, friendly and came over just the right amount of times. Very good.
(4)
Andrea S.
Total Agreement with other reviewers on food and beverages. This is my hubby's favourite place for beer, coffee, and atmosphere! During the day when we visit I like their "Andes Espresso" In the evenings the "Absinthe Ordinaire" is a must. In a perfect world I would prefer to experience the full Absinthe ritual, however, it's not practical for GGC's current set up. The wait staff does a great job considering the dynamic of the environment (The place is always busy - yes it gets loud therefore not so great for intimate conversation). Frankly, they are as eclectic as GGC's mission statement. A creative bunch of kidz!!
(5)
Jen L.
I've never had a bad lunch at Gulu. Sometimes I go just for the smoothies. But when I've called ahead to come pick my food, more often then not they start making it when I arrive. What's the deal? Minus one star for the service. Definitely delish though.
(4)
Jenn F.
My sister and I are both vegan and went here on a whim. We shared the hummus plate and the hummus wrap. It was so yummy! I would definitely go here again for the wine, free wifi and great food. Our service was a little slow, but it didn't bother me.
(4)
Daryl P.
I have had similar experiences as some other reviews I saw here... A. The beer is great, and the selection is very impressive. B. That being said, the food is a bit pricey and pretty mediocre. The only thing I actually order now is the combo cheese/meat plate with their grilled bread. Good price and very filling, obviously. C. I also feel like the waitstaff is always annoyed with you just for coming in. I'll go back when it's nice enough to sit outside again, and they get interesting music sometimes, but on the whole... Meh.
(2)
Michele B.
The good: Great Crepes (thought they leave the rind on the Brie, but that is how most use it, I am just fussy about that). I take a lactaid for my visit there because almost everything seems to have cheese, but it is delicious, so I am good with that. They do not seem to have regular sandwiches, everything is in a roll up, so if you don't like that, this is not the place for you. They also have a good selection of beverages, alcohol and non-alcoholic. I love their hot cider very much, and it is lovely after shopping in Salem on a cool day. They also have outdoor seating which is nice. There are a lot of dogs there though, so if they scare you, this may not be the place for you. The wait staff is just lovely. I have never had a surly or inept server there. They also seemed to be encouraged to be individuals, and I respect a place that does that. Located in a central spot. This area has a varied selection of shops ( love the kitchen shop and toy shop not far from there). If you go for no other reason, go because it is convenient. The bad: Not a great selection of foods. What they serve is wonderful though, just not a large selection and nothing "typical" so you need to go in with an adventurous spirit. I even got my friend who is a burger person to give the crepes a go. He seemed to like them a lot as he ate the entire thing. As with Harrison's up the road, there is little parking. Parking is metered, and they are strict about it, almost as bad as Cambridge. Bring lots of change (I forgot the rate).
(4)
Jocelyn P.
I LOVE it here. I really haven't found many chill cafe type places where you can just hang out and read or do whatever... this is that place for me. I think it would be nice if they would put in a few couches or cushy chairs (those weird highback leather ones in the corner don't really cut it for me), but it's not a deal breaker for me. The coffee is always good and they are usually pretty good about checking back. I typically go during the day, and the service has been decent. I don't think I've hit "regular" status with the waitstaff yet, but they are all nice enough. In terms of speed, I've been in and out pretty quick when I needed to leave, but they are also good about leaving me alone when it's clear that I'm just sitting there studying. The soup is so good, and I always get the essjay wrap. SO GOOODDD. Usually they play pretty nice music, but sometimes they play super weird stuff and crank it... I've left early a few times to get away because it's so distracting. Overall, this place is my jam. I crave it and wish I lived closer so I could be a regular and convert all my friends to Gulu-ists.
(4)
Mimi B.
On a cold afternoon I had lunch in this great cafe. Loved the atmosphere and the menu! Two of us got Panini and one a wrap. Very delicious with a small salad and chips included. The bread was a bit thick for our tastes--panini is all about the awesome crispiness of the grill and and melted fillings. With bread so thick this sort of missed the mark, but they were good sandwiches. Next time (and there will be a next time) I will get those awesome looking crepes or a salad. Both looked amazing. We all loved the place, just haven't found the right entree yet, but it is well worth going back to find something more yummy.....and beer of course.
(4)
Em G.
wow. sat down at the only open table on a thursday night and was served two of the most uninspiring meals a crepe, a beer, and an especially atrocious martini they called "the giddy cocktail". i am telling you, it was ungodly - i ended up daring my friend to finish it for me. the decor screamed "ARENT WE DIFFERENT?!" and the presentation mumbled "at least we tried." they had a err.. "band" (??)playing, which consisted of a dude and his gameboy, not even kidding, playing covers of songs you didn't want to hear the original of, let alone the gameboy rendition. sort of cool while loafing on the internet, but i am trying to eat and converse, not hear the dubbed remix of ash riding his bike in a cave. all around awful experience. the only saving graces were our smiling server, the impressive beer list and the crepe. a real shame since i loved the atmosphere when i walked in (before kirby set up) - but i will not return for grub or drinks until i catch wind of some serious updates to the respective menus.
They had a couple of vegetarian options and a vegan wrap. Great food, nice people. I will definitely go back again
(4)
Steve K.
The atmosphere is pretty nice. It's an 18+ eatery with a huge export and import beer list. You won't find bud, PBR, or Sam Adams here... but if you are looking for something different in the realm of beer, you are in Salem, and you are ready to try new and untapped resources in the non-booze alcohol department, I would give it a try. I don't generally get food here, but they do have a pretty amazing array of fresh cheeses and meats that you can get as a platter. If it is desert, espresso, or things of that nature... this could also be your go-to place. I personally wouldn't go here every day, nor would I say it is one of my favorite places, but if you are up in Salem and are a bit adventurous, I would definitely take a trip to Gulu Gulu. Oh, did I mention they have board games???
(3)
Sea S.
We sat down, waited 45 minutes for our food, while the cook and our server ate dinner. The tables were dirty and so was the restaurant. Why does this place have such a good rating? We were fooled, hope you aren't.
(1)
Stephanie H.
I have been here on numerous occasions and just thought I have reviewed it before. I go atleast once a month (if not more) most every month. If you are in a rush it is not the place to go. It is a relaxed, laid back, cafe style place. Sandwiches, meat & Cheese platter, grape leaves, panini sandwiches, salads, crepes to name a few of the things that are great about the menu. The beer selection and coffee are all great. Wine menu is eh but decent enough. Service is 99% of the time very slow.
(4)
Meg M.
When you walk into Gulu Gulu, just BEING there makes you cooler. Okay so there may be a couple emo kids crying in the corner or some hipster kids trying to figure out a way to sit in their chairs with their tight pants on... but really? This place is awesome. My fiance took me here on a whim when we went on an adventure one sunny Sunday and I am so glad he did. Well, HO-LEE beer list was I happy to be there. Unfortunately we had already eaten a big lunch but next time I go in there I will go hungry. They have meat and cheese plates for extremely reasonable prices. They have so many unique sandwiches and vegetarian options that I seriously wanted to try 4 different selections and I wasn't even hungry. Ya know what else they have? Crepes. I saw em. They're legit. NEED to have them. The service was friendly and cool. We ordered some micro brews and I was pleased to see that they had my favorite beer (Victory Golden Monkey) for 5 bucks a bottle. Considering it's like drinking 2 beers at once, thats a good deal. The atmosphere of the place is chill, hip and inviting. I love love love the little Frenchie that they use as their mascot, and they sell some awesome shirts right off of the walls here. There is also an adorable outside seating area, but it was full when we arrived. They have a full list of live music on the chalk board for the entire month so you can scan ahead to see who you want to check out. I will be back for a full meal and a night out. It's the kind of place I could spend all night in. This is by far my favorite new spot, I just wish it was closer to Southie but in my opinion, it's worth the drive.
(5)
Sarah S.
There seems to be a theme in a lot of the reviews - tasty food, cool atmosphere, great beer selection and really super slow service. The first few times my family and I went to Gulu Gulu we went during lunch hour and we waited quite a bit for everything - menus, drinks, food, the check, etc... We decided this time we'd stop in during off hours - 3PM on a Saturday afternoon. The patio had one table open and there were plenty of tables open inside. We did receive menus promptly and we were very excited . Sigh...that's where the speed ended. Drinks - 2 sodas in bottles - took about 20 minutes to arrive. Sandwiches - another 30 minutes. Dessert did arrive pretty quickly though and was delicious - s'more crepe! The food, I'd give it 4 stars. The panini need to be pressed and not just toasted but are very good. It's the service that kills the rating. There's no reason in the world for sandwiches to take over 45 minutes - closer to an hour - to arrive.
(3)
M. A.
Regarding what I said in earlier reviews about the food? Scrap all that. They've severely jacked up prices on what used to be the affordable things, and the quantities, in some cases, have been cut in half. They just rolled out their new menu, and it has removed almost everything I ever ate here. And I'm sorry, I should not be paying as much for a Chicken Caesar Salad wrap as I would for a frigging piece of foie gras at Opus down the street. The drink menu's still pretty good (though anything mixed is way overpriced), but really, the only reason I ever come in now is habit, and the fact that friends sometimes come here, too. But I haven't eaten here in months. Such a shame.
(3)
Joe Z.
I like Gulu Gulu Cafe a lot. It's got a great bohemian feel to it. The food is excellent. They have really interesting sandwiches and a fantastic beer and wine selection. All is not perfect, however. The service tends to be on the slow side. And by slow I mean really slow. Another note of caution is that when it's busy, as it often is, it's very noisy. The cafe has mostly bare walls and floors so the sound bounces around a whole lot. I've only been there for lunch. I know that they have bands and DJ nights. I can't imagine what it sounds like for those events. The acoustic foam on the bottom of the stairs is just not cutting it folks.
(4)
Adam E.
Fruli beer is amazing, and this was the first place I saw it outside of Amsterdam. Good start! My girls and I had a few with our sandwiches here before facing the streets of Salem, and we were very glad we did. Because we needed a buffer. All those families and phobes who voted for Scott Brown, ugh. No thank you. So I was glad to find an oasis of hipness where I felt somewhat shielded from Nickleback and open stares. The staff here in the afternoon was fun and friendly, with none of that shitty superior attitude you get from "cool" kids in crappy towns.The patrons were another story. I understand the impulse, like "I'm the coolest person for miles, I can treat you like dump." It reeks of insecurity, but I get it. The DJ who asked us to move while we were mid-meal was an example of that. Luckily, our waitress told us not to pay him any mind. We didn't intend to, but appreciated her redemptive words. Sadly, she couldn't make up for the overcrowded room and schizophrenic mix of stroller-toting obnoxious families and cooler-than-thou jerks. On a less busy day, I think this place would be completely awesome, and I know it's not their fault that some of the patrons are kind of horrible, but it does impact the experience. The other negative was the evening, when we went to have a few drinks and dance. The goth girl (oh hi, 1994, good to see you again) at the door said the place was full when we stopped by, even though it was way more crowded that afternoon. I mean, Gulu Gulu is aight, but it feels like a little brother who wants so desperately to be rebellious and cool that it just comes off as super annoying. Or those girls in college who have the poster of the two girls in lingerie kissing. Please.
(3)
Jose G.
What a great little find!!!! we got there totally by accident on a recent trip to Salem from Florida and went back the next day for more. Yes, it was that cool!!! You will not be disapointed
(5)
Caitie R.
My boyfriend and I are pretty regular customers at Gulu Gulu. The atmosphere is laid back and the prices are pretty reasonable (it usually costs us about $25 or so for the both of us, including tip, depending on what we get). The food is delicious (I usually get a chicken salad wrap and I've also tried the "Berry Nice" crepe). Anywhere that has chai tea also gets points from me. All of the staff we've encountered has been really nice, as well. One of the only downsides to Gulu Gulu is the seating. I've only been to the cafe on one occasion when it was very full and had to wait only about ten or so minutes for a seat, which wasn't a problem, but having the option to sit where you want especially if you're coming here for food is key. I find sitting on the couches very hard if you're actually trying to enjoy a meal, but maybe that's just me.
(4)
Joanna L.
Probably one of Salem's coolest places to hang out. Mostly a cafe with sandwiches, but known for good charcuterie boards. Cheese and meat platters are pick-your-own, and reasonable in price. For two people, two cheeses and meats should be enough for sharing. This place is a hangout and a snack joint - don't come here with the mindset of getting a great MEAL. The fun is in the linger, and the lazing. They have board games and good live entertainment on weekends. It's funky, spunky, and indie, and foodie. Like a coffee shop - but with meats and cheeses. Staff is nice and upbeat, kinda like baristas. A definite try for locals, or people looking to while away a few hours in town.
(4)
Christina D.
I've been going to the Gulu Gulu since it opened its Salem location, but I have yet to have a completely satisfying experience while I'm there. Starting off with the good. The food is excellent with pretty generous servings for the price. A good selection of loose leaf and iced teas, decent coffee and lattes, and the drink menu is impressive (although I'm not old enough to order a beer just yet). Also LOVE that it's the only place in Salem open after midnight on weekends that isn't 21+ or full of drunk sports fans or bad karaoke. Unfortunately, the service has always been less than impressive, as already stated in most other reviews. It often takes 10 minutes (usually more) to get a waiter's attention, and I've also received many wrong orders - even the simplest things, such as getting a decaf latte as opposed to a regular. Also - as much as I like hanging out at Gulu on a Friday night - the live music is usually too experimental and strange for me to handle. But no matter what, I still enjoy going to Gulu every now and then. Hopefully their service improves so the good will eventually outweigh the bad.
(3)
Sarah K.
Came to Salem w/ the intention of going to Coven Cafe for post-half-marathon recovery lunch (cheese? bread? meat? yes, please). Was very sad to discover that Coven does NOT exist anymore (not from the area, so I missed that memo). However, am very pleased that the no-Coven led us to try out Gulu Gulu instead. You can make your own meat & cheese plate, which comes with a substantial amount of delicious, crusty bread - awesome. (Get the marinated brie and the mustard cheddar!) Lots of tasty sandwich options - my husband described the turkey/manchego/apple butter panini as "a religious experience". After lots of begging and pleading, I got to steal a bite - he wasn't wrong. Didn't order any crepes (this time), but there were sweet and savory options, and they looked amazing. Will happily go back the next time I'm in the area.
(4)
Laura D.
I used to love this place, but now I'm kinda 'meh' about it. The food is good, and they have decent entertainment, but the service has gone way down hill.
(3)
Brenna R.
Great lunch menu! A great place to meet up with friends! Atmosphere is relaxing. Food is very very good!
(4)
Angela Q.
I may have given this place more stars had we actually EATEN there. Instead we pulled up a seat at the bar and were ignored for 10 minutes before rudely being asked if we planned on eating and then told that if we were the wait for food was 45 minutes. And it wasn't even very busy. Boooo
(1)
Anthony R.
Horrible food, miserable people, stay away. This place is literally the worst restaurant I have ever encountered in my life. Unless you enjoy eating food that tastes like cat throw up, and talking to people that think they are gods gift to the universe, do not go here. Spend your money on anything else or just throw it away because this place doesn't deserve it.
(1)
liza c.
There is a giant Boston Terrier head on the front of this building. How could anyone not go in?! Seriously, though, once you get back the extreme cuteness of Gulu Gulu's mascot, you realize that the cafe isn't half bad. In fact, it's pretty great. Coming from Philly, it's hard to be satisfied with the dining options of a small town so considering what we were up against during this trip, we were pleasantly surprised. Everyone is really friendly at GGC and the dining room is spacious, yet cozy. Plus there is an outdoor seating option with a decent view of downtown Salem's goings-ons. Also, great beer list for a small town like Salem! Things to improve on - desserts were tasty, but possibly not that fresh. And our waittress mayyyy have been stoned and not in a funny way.
(4)
Etta M.
Mmm! Met some friends for drinks and snackies on Saturday afternoon. We each had a cheese and meat plate, it was so tasty! We were given plenty of time to sit at our table and sip on our beers (or italian soda in my case) and enjoy each other's company. The waitstaff was wonderful and helpful. I will be going back for sure.
(5)
Lisa J.
Gulu Gulu cafe was introduced t me last year by my sister and I have been going there at least monthly ever since. The staff is laid back and friendly, the menu is very interesting and the atmosphere is chill. Their Beer selection is great. They have a rotating tap menu that is always fresh and will have something for everyone. Their bottled selection is well thought out and doesn't contain Coors, Budlight or Corona ;) They support local artists, have music and open mic nights and band performances. Be sure to check the events board above the bar or the website before planning an evening there. If you don't and just show up there might be a huge crowd waiting for a band to perform or some such. I'm pretty sure they offer free wifi and you can sit and read by the window in one of their comfy chairs and sip a latte all day if you want without being harassed. If you're looking for good food, good atmosphere, friendly servers and NO Yeah Dudes then this is the place for you!
(4)
Lauren F.
Gulu Gulu Cafe has outdoor seating, an extensive beer list (including Framboise!) and an interesting menu of crepes and sandwiches. My husband and I have been there twice, and I don't think I can go again without ordering the Meat and Cheese Coalition - a plate of 3 meats and cheeses you pick out from a list. The habanero cheddar is hot! So far everything I've ordered there has been good: ham and Brie crepe, blue cheese salad (nice amount of blue cheese, pears, and walnuts). I do think the service could be a little more attentive though. The last time we went our waitress forgot about us and another server reminded her to come out and give us the check - d'oh!
(4)
Kate P.
My husband and I went in here last night. We were drawn to the cute decor, the vegetarian-friendly menu, and the chance to eat outdoors on what was a crisp fall evening. The food was good, but ultimately the service wasn't great. My husband's appetizer came out with another table's appetizers and they didn't bring mine out. His was soup and since we were outdoors on a chilly evening, so he really didn't have a choice but to eat it. Our main courses came out while he was still eating his soup, and they brought my appetizer (salad) at the same time. I told the food runner who dropped off the food that I didn't want my salad anymore since my main course was there. She said that she didn't think it would be possible to remove from the bill, and I asked to speak to a manager. She said there wasn't a manager on duty, and I reaffirmed that we needed it to come off the bill. Our server then came out and said she put the salad in as an appetizer (implying she had done her part but the kitchen or someone else had made the mistake) and that it was policy not to take things off the bill. She said she could wrap it for us to take with us. We said that because we didn't live around there, that wouldn't work for us and we would need it off the bill. These things happen, and I know that servers can't always handle these situations on their own / without the involvement of a manager, so we probably would have just dealt with it and paid for the salad, except our server seemed ticked off or offended by the situation and that's when service really dropped off. Although there was an empty drink glass on the table, she didn't ask if we wanted more drinks (as she was walking away we had to call after her and ask for more drinks). The food runner checked on us during our meal and asked how our food was. The runner was also the one who ultimately picked up our plates when we were done. The next thing the server did was drop the check off. She didn't ask if we wanted desert or coffee or more drinks. She just dropped the check and ran. (We probably would have stayed around and ordered desert.) The check had the salad on it. If she had bothered to acknowledge the situation again and say something along the lines of, "I'm sorry for what happened, but I'm afraid I can't take the salad off the bill" we would have been like, "sure, we get it, it's not a problem". But the fact that she never apologized, dropped the check and ran, and didn't seem to give a damn about us after the issue with the salad, said to us that this place needs some serious Service 101 for its servers. We wanted what we were paying for and asked for a new salad to take with us. They did this and in less than 5 minutes, it was in our hands and we were out the door. In the end, they threw a salad away and are getting a thumbs down review here. It would have been better if they managed to get the first salad out in less than 5 minutes, took it off the bill, or just apologized. Next time we're in Salem, we'll be staying away from this place.
(1)
Janet D.
Funky little place in center city Salem. Get the cheese and meat platter for a wonderful midday snack or appetizer. The sage cheese is smooth and tasty and the red dragon is a unique texture and flavor. Add a glass of wine or a pint. A great place to just relax! Service is relaxed, friendly and good.
i came here as a tourist recently while visiting a friend. I must say the atmosphere is really cool, very "rebellious" very "punk rock" or "rockabilly" type. Good selection of beer. And they have veggie treats. The decor is very artsy and doesn't feel like a tourist trap. :D We had the Marinated Brie cheese starter.......omg. it was heaven on earth, the flavors of the Olive Oil and the brie mixing together in that creamy goodness was just delightful, something I hope to taste again. the flavor is strong, but the cream of the brie soothes it down. Then we had the Grapeleaves had a strong favor, but it comes with a yogurt dip, so it was really good. I notice they mix flavors here a lot, and I like that. The service was ok, I do remember though, me and my friend drinking our water slowly. The staff seemed really nice, they have lots of art stuff all over, and I think they sell art work on their website. The food here was fabulous, filling, and not cheesy tourist crap, I also had the Lyon Vegeterian Panini, SO GOOD! OMG! artichokes just teased me and made me go SQUEE! the sandwich just tasted wonderful, and melted in my mouth. You have to try this! :D I would go back when I go visit my friend again. :D If your'es in the Salem area, and want to get away from the cheesy witch stuff, GO HERE you'll be glad you did. :D check it!
(5)
Beth G.
I'm so grateful that a place like this exists in Salem. It's a cool cafe w/funky art, friendly vibe, good food, great beer and wine selection. The service can be pretty slow, but then again what's the rush when one is in a nice space? Hence, go when you have time to relax for a bit. When people come to visit we always stop at the Gulu, and our visitors are typically impressed. Even when people aren't visiting, we like to go here w/groups for shows. The bands and DJ are usually quite fun. The menu is quite varied and while I have tried other sandwiches/ apps, etc, I keep going back to the same thing: the Hearty Vegetarian wrap. So good! in a spinach wrap... boursin cheese... artichoke hearts... yum... The nice thing though is that if you see something under the panini choices and you would rather it in a wrap, they'll do it, no problem. Oh, but let me let you in on a little secret: ask about their specialty drink (non-alcoholic). Last year it was a delicious ginger lemonade; this year it's a rooibos iced tea. And oh.my .god is it heavenly! Ask for it and thank me later ;)
(4)
Kelly S.
This is one of my favorite places in Salem, which rules as it's just a short walk from my apartment. The food is great, very veg*n friendly, and a great beer list! I generally go for lunch, it just has that relaxing mid-day kind of vibe. I also note the "scene kid" vibe, but whatever. That's something I can easily look over. More importantly, the staff is friendly. This is a great place to meet up with friends or read a book by yourself. Really glad Salem offers a place like this.
(5)
G M.
Impressive, we really enjoyed their menu! So many interesting choices! Unfortunately we only had time for lunch before going to our next destination. From outside, it didn't seem like much, but once seated we were impressed with the atmosphere. (However, I don't think we'd enjoy being here for live music night.) It seemed to be an eclectic place where you can have a conversation with lunch, or check your email over coffee. There were even books and board games in the corner. They appeared to have a bar, but I can't say for certain. They have a tiny outdoor seating area, which I imagine is always full! The food was really good. I had a really nice chicken sandwich with apple butter, and my wife was very pleased with her coffee. Also they had bottled soda instead of fountain, for which I applaud them. (Fountain soda tends to be replete with bacteria.) My wife comments that although she liked her sandwich, much of the chicken was fatty and inedible. The waitress was friendly and fairly attentive. Oh! And they had a sticker in their window for Yelp, which is how I discovered this site!
(4)
Jessica S.
Great place, great food, great atmosphere! I had a Turkey Club wrap and a Creme Brulee latte, and it was wonderful! My friends all got savory crepes, and they looked so delicious, I'm going to have to go back and get one myself! Too bad I'm not a Salem native, because I'd go here all the time!!
(4)
Christopher R.
We are planning on buying a home in Salem soon so have been spending a lot of time there looking at Open Houses and exploring the non tourist areas. We usually eat at Finz or Salem Beer Works when we are in Salem as they are two of our faves. We wanted something quick in the downtown area, that was not too heavy or too expensive. We always park near and walk by Gulu Gulu but decided this time to pop in and try it. The atomosphere is casual (they also have a great outdoor eating area), a little funky and very open. This is the kind of place I could see myself becoming a regular at. Maybe getting lunch, hanging in one of the chairs or couches, with my lap top on thier free WiFi. We started with the Cheese and Meat Coalition!! Chorizo, goat cheese and gouda. I had the Chicken Cordon Bleu Crepe. I was ecstatic that there were some French items on the menu (quite a few actually). This crepe was out of this world good. The flavors were so right on and the crepe was perfectly cooked. I will defintely be coming back here and trying everything on the menu as it all sounds so GOOD!!!
(5)
Gina C.
This place was one of the best places I have eaten in a long time. I got the Munich panini and it was probably the best roast beef I have ever had. The service was attentive but not annoyingly present. The atmosphere was really relaxed, it was a younger crowd for the most part but there were a couple of older guys getting some coffee. While I didn't drink, there beer selection was unreal. This place is a must go if you are in the area.
(5)
K M.
I love love love this place! They use amazing loose leaf tea and you get your own little teapot. Amazing atmosphere and a comfy couch. Only complaint is the seat yourself rule which leads to a free for all i.e. one couple taking up a table for 6??? Other than that it's adorable
(4)
Stumbalina b.
I really wanted to like Gulu Gulu, but my visit was a bust. If not for this review, i'm sure I won't remember the decidely underwhelming sandwich (Lyon Veg) with an unimpressive side dish and truly disappointing service. We left hungry and frustrated. At best, they have an impressive array of beer and they seem to wisely avoid making "witch" puns.
(1)
Vanilla P.
Wonderful beer selection, slightly overpriced but worth it for the selection and recommendations by the staff. Our waitress was very knowledgeable about the different beers we asked about, which is lovely when you pretend to be cultured (us not her). Hummus: sucky Daily soup: yum, clam chowder Panini: warm and flavorful... I think it was the Barcelona. Service: friendly. We went around 2 and the place was empty, so our waitress was very attentive and helpful with suggestions.
(4)
Jamie P.
This is really a 3.5 star review. I enjoy this place because it has great beers on tap and the food is delicious. The Paninis are some of the best around. They also have board games which can be really fun when your drinking with some friends! I also love that it's a different scene from every other bar in Salem. However the entertainment is really hit and miss. Some bands are entertaining and some are terrible. We have seen a few acts that are just painful to listen too. All that being said, I will definitely be back to the Gulu Gulu.
(3)
Anthony M.
I went to gulu gulu cafe in the hopes of finding a different kind of cafe and after reading the reviews and checking it out myself, I was not disappointed. We went on a dinner and a movie night. (which I want to steal along with a couple other ideas) I do not remember the name of the movie but there was a good crowd and everybody there seemed almost like a family. Strangers were talking to one another and sharing stories and playing games. They have board games to play if you feel the urge to get a game going. I noticed that they have risk so I might have to come by and play some time. The service was great. The server really seemed to like his job and had a great deal of knowledge about the vast variety of unusual beers on tap and in bottle. The owners have done a fantastic job putting a cafe together that makes patrons and employees feel welcome and a place that you can be yourself. I also really liked that the menu was so different from other places, and that on the back under FAQ's it even said to not be afraid to try new things. The food was good, we tried some new stuff which is always fun! Atmosphere was very cool, I love the Christmas lights in the window (something i really need to get back in my place) The only complaints I have is that the grape leaf app. was under seasoned, and they have regular Gouda, not smoked... Smoked is SO much better! I will DEFINITELY go back, I want to check out some different entertainment nights.
(4)
Waldo J.
My wife and I went here for lunch recently. I had the red pepper tapenade and a ham and brie crêpe, she had the macaroni and cheese. Both of our meals came with salads. My portions were reasonable, through she was given enough mac and cheese to choke a horse. The wait time was fine, the service friendly, if disorganized. (For example, we were given twice as many napkins and knives as we needed, but no forks.) The food wasn't outstanding, but it wasn't bad. The prices were wholly reasonable. Selection was good, but not suspciously broad. Though I wouldn't return, it's only because I'd like to try other restaurants in the area, not because there was anything wrong with Gulu-Gulu.
(3)
Misty S.
Very happy that this opened in Salem! Great food, great beer, great wine, great coffee. And Jack and Max rock.
(4)
Jennifer P.
Ok so we were visiting on an off season weekend which sucked because it was rainy and cold and everything was closed. We were told about this place by the owner of the B&B we were staying at. So we decided to go in and get some coffee to warm up. Our waiter was Super and we had coffee with a kick mine was the Italian one with Amaretto and Frangelico and my gf had the chocolate mint one with peppermint schnapps. We also ordered warm banana bread and omg it was tasty and one order is 3-slices. Wow nothing like NYC and the prices were so reasonable. Too bad its alway the in Salem I would love to have the option of hanging out here on a weeknight especially for the live music they have. There's always something going on here....
(4)
Kimberly H.
I was bringing a friend to Salem while she was in town visiting and needed some fuel before starting our dorky witch hunting excursions. We noticed Gulu Gulu Cafe from across the street and hopped inside. Right off the bat I loved the feel of the place. It was a little bit artsy and a lot bit inviting. My friend in Gluten intolerant and were so happy to see that they offered a Gluten free tortilla on all of their wraps. Since I (for now) still have a stomach of steel I went for the Istanbul Panini: smoked turkey, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and pesto on grilled bread. I asked for fresh basil to be added (doooo it) and it was just perfect! You know you have a good sandwich on your hands when you don't even think about needing additional condiments. All of the sandwiches come with a small lightly dressed salad and potato chips ... you don't even make me choose? ... Gulu Gulu we are going to be good friends. We also grabbed a couple of meats and cheeses from the charcuterie menu and were stuffed! That being said our server offered us a Gluten free blueberry pie and of course we adjusted our belts and went for it. The pie crust was not my favorite, but hey, it was something we could both eat. The filling was good enough that I would order it again. Will most definitely be back next time I am in Salem!
(4)
Salem X.
One day, the elder beer Gods got together for a meeting in their palace high atop a Belgian mountain range. All six of the Gods were present for this very special occasion: Vera, Mickey, Fritz, Olaf, Lord Rumplebottom and Paco. The purpose of the meeting was to create a place with just a dozen or so taps, but whose taps would have such varied quality beers that it would rival even the most over tapped beer snob hang outs. Vera suggested the place should serve cheese. Mickey insisted it remain open late into the night, with a full menu. Fritz said it should have the Cojones to serve seasonal beers at any time of the year, regardless of season. Olaf proclaimed there shall be music and movies the help pass the time while drinking. Lord Rumplebottom growled that prices should be reasonable and service friendly. Paco didn't say much of anything - he was wasted. But through his drunken stupor, he was able to mumble something about how the place should be located in Salem, Massachusetts on the Eastern Coast of the US; all agreed. And so the Gulu Gulu Cafe was born.
(4)
Kaitlin B.
We visited Gulu Gulu twice during a weekend stay in Salem. The first was late night for drinks with a large group. The selection was great, but service was a little slow and my fiance was served a beer that was definitely not what he ordered. We went back again in the morning for breakfast and were very underwhelmed. The service was incredibly slow and the food was mediocre. I wouldn't go back for more than drinks.
(2)
Jessica W.
Eh. I don't hate it. The food is really great, when you finally get a table, but it is a bit over crowded most of the time. They have really great cheese plates that come with a ton of stuff. You can choose 3 cheeses for $9 with toasted bread. They don't have a full bar, which for me is a bit of a downer. I am not a huge beer drinker, but if you are you'll love the beer selection. Though they have a chocolate martini that is LITERALLY one of the best drinks I've ever had. Overall, the food is great it's just too crowded most of the time.
(3)
Kelly A.
Gulu-Gulu is Salem is a great place to hang out and grab drinks with friends. There's really cool artwork on the wall, the staff is really nice, the music is fantastic, and the menu is very veg-friendly. I went there for dinner last night with the boy, and then a friend joined us for drinks post-food. Vegetarian grape leaves were great (served with hot pita triangles and yogurt). The mac and cheese (smallish appetizer portion, served alongside a bit of greens) mixes roasted red peppers, cheddar, and goat cheese into a decent elbow dish. Wraps are pretty good. Banana Chocolate crepe is fantastic. Iced tea is strong, freshly-brewed, and lovely. Beer list is fairly extensive. Sometimes they have live music, and sometimes they show movies.
(4)
Tim A.
Cool atmosphere, good food selection, great beer list. The service has been really good every time I've been here. There aren't a lot of good options for vegetarians in Salem, so this place stands out.
(4)
Amy C.
Gave Gulu another try and I must say it was so much better. I will give the owner mad props for emailing me directly when I posted a bad review. That takes character and I'm happy to see that some of the things we talked about were much improved. The service was very good, the food quality was fresh and I was also glad to see this place was packed. I mean every single table was full and that is a great sign for Salem. I ended up getting the smoked turkey, bacon, tomato on grilled ciabatta . The little side salad had a great balsamic dressing. I will definitely come back and that is a good thing!
(4)
L. G.
This is a great spot in Salem. They have a great beer selection, delicious food and live music. My kind of place. I've been here a few times and always have a great time. I've had a few different appetizers and wraps and everything is phenomenal. The only down side is that it's pretty small and fills up quickly on the weekends, so if you want to get a seat you have to get there early.
(4)
Felicia S.
SERVICE: Service has always been fantastic and I've never had an issue being waited on. FOOD: Food is always great. My absolute favorite wrap there is "The Essjay" its a hummus and fruit wrap, so delicious and a perfect pairing of flavors. ATMOSPHERE: I enjoy the cozy seating and very homey feel to the place. ATMOSPHERE-CONS: Some nights Gulu Gulu cafe hosts live music and to be honest, I just don't see it as the right establishment to host such loud music. I'll admit I even like the idea that there is place where people can meet up, listen to music, and relax. I just don't think a small cafe like the Gulu Gulu should be used like a concert hall. Unfortunately, the live bands turn into tight college parties that don't allow for any seating on those given nights. God forbid you did get a seat, you wouldn't be able to talk with the person across from you. On those nights I recommend that most customers order take-out.
(4)
Chris S.
I've been growing a mustache for Movember, so I felt comfortable enough in a hipster environment to check this place out. I thought it was well organized with a line at one end of the bar for ordering drinks. It took away the unpleasant act of reaching between seated patrons to place an order, take your drink and then pay. I thought the atmosphere was pretty cool, there was a guy spinning records in the front and some sort of film playing behind him...didn't pay enough attention to it to figure out what it was. I thought their beer selection was good, however I would have liked to have seen more representation from the Mass Brewers Guild (we have great breweries here in MA). The bartender seemed knowledgeable and friendly, and I thought there prices were very fair, especially on the higher alc beers. Looking forward to checking out the food at some point.
(3)
Alex L.
I came in here after multiple recommendations. I know now to try the crepes next time, but I had the mac and cheese. It was very different from what you'd expect from mac and cheese but very delicious. The beer selection is very good. I ordered a chcolate stout, but that being out they had a BBC stout that was equally good. I will be back.
(4)
Kylie H.
YAY! I love it. I can't say anything about their food because I haven't eaten here yet, but they have a great beer selection. Anywhere that has Victory Golden Monkey reasonably priced I'm a fan of. Amazing atmosphere here as well. I am looking forward to going back to try their food.
(4)
Miss B.
I've been going to this Gulu-Gulu and the original location in Lynn (now closed) since they opened. I really appreciate the unique ambiance and eclectic selection of beers and wines, not to mention the many vegetarian options on the menu! I'm a big fan of the cheese platter, the spiced cider, the delicious variety of sweet or savory crepes (don't make me choose a favorite!) and I often get the Cranberry Salad- but there are others that are equally tasty. They have art by local artist featured and for sale on the walls, they show movies or sometimes have live music. I've noticed the service isn't as good as it used to be, however. The last time I went there, there was a sign that told us to go inside if we wanted patio seating. Then when we got inside, there was a sign at the hostess desk telling us to seat ourselves. We waited for a few minutes by the host podium, but nobody greeted us and the place seemed busy, so we then decided to seat ourselves at a table outside. We waited again for about 5-10 minutes without anyone coming to us. We noticed some people leaving so we went back inside to see if there were any empty tables yet. There were, so we sat ourselves. After several more minutes, someone came over and took our drink order and served us. Once we finally got served, the service was courteous and attentive. I think that the wait staff here have too much on their hands, and that they are a bunch of local students that don't really care about the restaurant. The place is doing really well for itself these days, so maybe the owners don't realize what's going on as far as the customer experience goes. I think the pricing is right-on for fresh, unique ingredients like the stuff served here. The portions aren't huge, but it's really more of a cafe, not a dinner place. I think this a great place for a date, provided you're not in a rush or starving, because the service might take some time...
(3)
JR D.
I've been to Gulu Gulu a couple times now, mainly for a late breakfast on weekdays. Apparently it's a perfect time because it's never super busy, although there's always a few tables. The coffee drinks are unique from what I've typically seen. Granted, I go to Starbucks and my extent of a unique drink is a pumpkin spice latte, but the drinks are interesting enough for me to try (i.e. Creme brulee latte, Andes latte, etc). Everything I've had is delicious. I'm definitely a beer kinda gal, and this place has a great selection. It's a good range of different types of beer, so almost any beer drinker you go with will be satisfied. I noticed today that they have Spaten Oktoberfest on the list, which means I will be headed there soon just for that. Wine selection looked vast as well, and my friends talk about how they have absinthe on the menu in a favorable manner. The food menu is outstanding. Crepes any time of the day? Yes please! Breakfast sandwiches with your not so typical ingredients (prosciutto egg and manchego cheese, DROOL!). Paninis that come in all kinds. A meat and cheese plate that my friend RAVES about. Vegetarian options available for the no-meat-eaters. It really caters to just about anyone that walks in, and I love that. Service is always friendly, and yeah, it's not super fast, but usually when I go in, I'm not looking to run in and out. They seem to have a ton of "events" in the evenings, from movie nights to open mic nights to DJs to bands to whatever else you can think of. I've only been in once for an evening, and it was over a year ago, so other than the fact that I went and had good beer, I don't remember it, so I couldn't tell ya how the atmosphere is in the evening. I do remember it being pretty packed, though. I highly recommend this place to someone who likes good food and beer, with an almost coffeehouse atmosphere to it. Try to grab a couch if you can on a night when you want to cozy up to your honey! I will definitely be returning to Gulu Gulu and will hopefully have an opportunity to try EVERYTHING on the mouth watering menu!
(4)
Kira K.
I like this place because it's laid back, has fun staff, and the food is good. It appeals to meat-eaters and vegetarians alike as well as coffee drinkers and beer drinkers. There is something for everyone. The thing I really like about Gulu Gulu is that it's completely un-hipster. A lot of the coffee places that I've been to that offer live entertainment or have beer on tap seem to be the types of places that you want to be seen at. Not so with Gulu Gulu. It's just a bunch of real people with real appetites looking for a great bite to eat and something good to drink. The service does run on the slow side, but order a beer, slow down and enjoy. It is a very calming atmosphere. Let it sink in. It's a great place to take a friend or loved one to eat if you actually want to have a conversation. You're never seated too close to anyone else, it's never so loud that you can't hear each other, and depending on how close you are, there are a couple of cozy couches to sit on together and enjoy the live music. This is always my go-to lunch spot when I go to the Peabody Essex Museum.
(4)
Tamara D.
This is an overall good review for Gulu Gulu. I only have one negative. I've been going to Gulu Gulu for over two years now. What can I say?? I love the food, the atmosphere and the awesome service. The artwork on the walls are always a good conversation starter. The different types of music and people always make it very interesting. There are so many different types of foods to choose from. I usually stick with the Paninis or the wraps. My favorite sandwiches are the Great Porto and the Palermo. Sooooooooo good. The Mac n Cheese is a taste sensation. Almost.... Almost.... as good as my own. Danny is always great and makes the best coffee concoctions. He also makes very good recommendations on food choices. I always end up trying something new and loving it. Sue Ann (SJ) is also another great server. Drinks are always refilled and she is always around to see if you need anything. She is always very happy. She's also very fast and you are never left waiting. I would advise to not have Katie wait on you. I've only had her once and she was subpar at best. I thought maybe she was having an off night and decided to brush off that negative experience. However, last night I was able to observe her once again. She still wasn't friendly and seemed to have a scowl tattooed on her face. I actually felt sorry for the patrons being waited on by her. I know she is fairly new. Hopefully, she will learn that a smile goes a long way and to check her bad day at the door before she clocks in for work. The customers shouldn't suffer for it. Gulu Gulu ranks high on my list of favorite restaurants in Salem. I usually go like twice a month. I always recommend it to family, friends, and coworkers. It's good, fun, reasonable and well.... I just like it!
(4)
Teju P.
I randomly stopped in here with my family, and we thought its was alright. What is excellent: Service Atmosphere Italian Soda Goat Cheese/Roasted Red Pepper Mac & Cheese Portobella, Spinach, and Basil crepe What is NOT excellent: Viennesse Vegetarian panini - very small Sweet Crepe with Green Apples, Strawberry, Almond, and honey (name is escaping me now) very crunch and difficult to eat because the contents kept breaking the crepe.
(3)
Cindy M.
What a great place to just sit back and relax! My boyfriend and I visited Gulu over the weekend and we were quite impressed with the whole vibe of the place and will definitely be going back some time soon. I know a few people have commented on the nightlife in this establishment however we were there during the day and found it quite pleasant. I had a cappuccino that was out of this world! When I took my spoon to try the foam, it seemed like I was digging into a decadent dessert. The beer list is quite extensive and impressive. We didn't have anything to eat but are planning on getting a bite when we return!!
(4)
Anna S.
I have been back a few times, and I just need to reiterate what a fantastic restaurant this is. I have dragged family, friends, and new lovers to this place. Every single time the food is fresh and unbelievably yummy. The service is great, the people watching is great, and the drinks are great. I can't give Gulu Gulu cafe a high enough recommendation. Please keep this awesome place in business!
(5)
Lauren V.
Even though I had a great time at Gulu Gulu Cafe, I thought "maybe I shouldn't let my personal experience impact the rating", but then I smartened up and thought "clearly Gulu Gulu is a place that is conducive to good times". And so, the four star rating stands. I came here with 7 other people on a Thursday night. We turned two corners of the restaurant into our own little gypsy camps until we were able to snag a table. The waitress didn't seem to mind our migratory pattern and was able to stay on top of our numerous drink, cake and crepe orders. She wasn't the most friendly, but I had enough people to chat with and she did her job fine so no bother. Each night has a theme. Thursday night was live music. There is a fairly-large stage (considering the overall size of the place) and the acoustics aren't too bad. It might have been nice if the band was a bit more ambient or quiet- there was a lot of musical chairs as we tried to accommodate conversation over the music. On a side note, I was not a huge fan of the band coming around and asking everyone for money. We had been sitting down for about 5 minutes when a band member came over, whined (ok, not really) that they weren't getting paid by the bar and held out his hand. Kind of awkward. When my sister mentioned she didn't carry cash, he asked "You don't? Weird." Anyways, they have a big list of wines, beers (not crap beers either) and cocktails. If you are DD, there are Italian sodas, coffees, teas and smoothies. I would definitely recommend a piece of Chocolate Mousse Cake and although I did not personally try one, each crepe had about a 2 minute life span once it landed on our table. I will definitely be back.
(4)
Richard D.
I stopped in here with a friend after a day of cycling around the area. We grabbed a couch in the back with a coffee table. They have a pretty good wine list and the salmon crepes were fantastic. The waitress was perfect: she didn't hover (the place was not very busy at 4:30), but was attentive enough and quick to refill both water and wine glasses (important after a hot day of cycling). I'll be back!
(4)
Amanda Z.
Heard about this place from a bunch of co-workers that live down the street from it. Has a very chill atmosphere with an eccentric array of seating. Wait staff is very nice. I went on a Friday in the late afternoon and there was only one waitress. As the place started to fill up and orders came in she was able to keep up with everyone and not make anyone feel like they were having to wait for their food. They have live shows there, though I didn't stay long enough that night to see who was performing. Excellent beer selection, fantastic chowder!
(4)
John G.
Just an incredible place. I took a day trip to Salem last Sunday by myself and pulled up a barstool at the Gulu Gulu Cafe. From start to finish just a wonderful experience. Not much that I can add that hasn't already been said. Great beer selection, awesome atmosphere. I would like to pay tribute to the staff here last Sunday. Both bartenders were attentive and cool and the waitresses were jovial and engaging (is is Yelp-professional to say that they were HOT too? Probably Not.) I'll be taking another daytrip to Salem soon cos I do love that town, and I'll definitely be back the Gulu Gule Cafe.
(5)
Frank B.
I really, really want to like this place. Coming from Davis Square in Somerville, I've been spoiled by great, funky, unique places to grab a beer/bite/coffee. So now that I live in the land of "gothic revival", I was glad to see such a place open up. I've been to Gulu-Gulu about a dozen times, for a variety of purposes: tea while i get work done; beers with friends; lunch; night out to listen to music. In each case, there are a few recurring themes. First, the service is astoundingly slow, even when the place is empty. I know its trying to through out the euro chillax avec cafe thing. But seriously, if I'm making repeated eye contact, come over. And how long does it take to pull a draft of beer? Second, the place is over-priced. For $8, a sandwhich had better be amazing. They're OK, but nothing to get excited about (to contrast, see Dave's Fresh Pasta in the aforementioned square). The crepes taste gritty and bland, sort of like tortillas before they've been fried. Ok, so some good news? The music is usually pretty good and not too loud. The beer selection is great, though it SEVERELY suffers a lack of affordable (less than $4.50) options. Hello? High Life? Or at least some Polish equivalent? The sandwiches are pretty good, and the atmosphere creative. Improvements to the quality, speed of service, and price of beer would easily make this a 5-star rating and a place to treasure in my new digs. We'll see if they get the message. Word.
(3)
angela h.
Seems like this place strikes a nerve with people- either great or terrible. Well, for me it is GREAT. I've gone twice- once on a very busy late Sunday morning, and another time on a not as busy early Friday evening. The food is unlike most other eating establishments. You're not gonna be eating burgers and fries here, and that's a-okay with me. Sandwiches are delicious with interesting combinations and ingredients. Basically, great food, great drinks, great beer, great service.
(5)
Maria V.
I thought I had reviewed this place. . . oops! I enjoy a place where not only can i get a drink with friends, but we don't have to scream into each others ears in order to be heard. The Gulu Gulu offers such an environment. They offer a hefty selection of beers and wine, although thus far I've only tried the martinis (tasty!). They also have an assortment of non-alcoholic bevs and coffees. As far as food, I have only had some apps and a crepe, but they were delicious (mmm smoked salmon and arugula). There is an assortment of tables, cozy chairs and a couch in which to enjoy aforementioned treats. They feature local artwork on the walls and have game nights, open mic, bands and movies. All in all, this is one of my favorite discoveries on the North Shore.
(4)
Ray T.
Amazing place!! Great beer selection and vegetarian and vegan options! The vegan chili is one of my favorites.
(5)
Saleem N.
Always great. Everything is priced right ant good enough to try different items. Wish one of these were closer to me. Would go all the time.
(5)
Francesca R.
I went to Gulu Gulu to see my little brother when he was headlining the Open Mic night--John Michael (Saves!) and I really liked it. First of all, it's a big, open cafe with a genuine European vibe. I like that the owners met in Prague at a now defunct cafe by the same name, and they have taken great pains to recreate a real European experience. There are a jumble of tables amidst clever artwork, all of which is conducive to sitting with your coffee and thinking deep thoughts or having great conversations over great beers. To that end, we went with the beer, and just like in Prague, there is a beer menu to serve all palates. My brother and his hipster friends all authoritatively ordered Rogue Dead Guy Ale, presumably just to order the most absurdly titled beer on the menu. Hubs, parents and I went for Krusovice on tap. I prefer Gambrinus and Staropramen Granat, but I'm always delighted when Czech beers are available and Krusovice is a solid entry. For Czech beer it's just OK, but in America it's a revelation. I did not eat when I was here but the website is very helpful on this point. They don't have a kitchen--just some fridges and a stove behind the bar, so the food is simple and meant as more of a complement to the cafe experience as opposed to the reason to go in and of itself. The only thing I would recommend is that they add the delectable honey cake (Medovnik) which is always available in Czech cafes. For one, it would be more authentic, for two, Medovnik is the goddamn bomb diggity of desserts. The service was great. There was a friendly gentlemen letting everyone know that it was bar service only that night. The website also goes to great pains to explain that there are only so many people working there who are bartender, server and cook alike, so not to get too fussed about how long your food is taking. Basically, it's like any cafe in Europe. Sit back and relax. I'm not sure about other nights but the Open Mic night was not too loud (conversations were still possible) and the quality of the music was actually pretty good. My brother is really good, but I was surprised (and relieved) to find the other acts all up to par.
(4)
Katie G.
You want a cool place to hang out and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea? How about a funky place to eat lunch with a friend? Perhaps you are looking for a place to lounge while you do your work? If you can answer yes to any of the above, Gulu Gulu Cafe is the spot for you! This eclectic place is located right in downtown Salem. The walls are lined with work from mostly local artists. You can buy them right off the wall! The floor is filled with a mix of small tables, lounge chairs, and couches. Pick your comfort! The food is delicious. I have had their fruit cup with yogurt and it was lovely! I couldn't stop eating it! My friend ordered a crepe that she raved about. In previous trips, I have enjoyed both warm and iced coffee medleys, all of which were quite good. Their sandwiches are also very good. The one thing keeping a 5 star rating is the price. It does seem to be a bit much, but not too much so. Just too much money for what you get in order to receive a 5 star rating.
(4)
Mike C.
I started going here when they first opened their doors when i lived in Salem. The first thing i noticed is how fresh everything was. Salad was crisp and green, the sandwiches were made with high quality ingredients and toasted perfectly (if that's how they came) and the beer menu was like none other I've ever seen (literally I've never heard of 95% of these beers). The menu was unique and not too long and included many things you don't see even typically at coffee shop-type places. If you get a chance you'll notice they have healthy offerings as well as comfort foods. Even after several years me and my girlfiend still treat ourselves to this place to enjoy a light brunch/lunch and a coffee. I will admit that during busy times it does take a long time to get your food but if you notice they do make everything fresh and their kitchen area is one of the smallest around, but they do make the best out of what they have which i can appreciate. The only reason it gets less than 5 stars from me is the occasional long wait and the fact that sometimes the music is WAAAAY too loud for me to enjoy a meal/coffee. i recommend this place to anyone passing through who wants a good quality meal at a fair price.
(4)
E K.
I always love goint to this place when i'm in town! The atmosphere is great and very laid back. It really does remind me of a Prague cafe. Their drink selections is great, and there is a lot to choose from. The Czech beers and milky way martini's are my favorites. The food crepes are pretty good too.
(4)
Todd L.
Nice staff, great regulars, amazing beers, good music, yummy foods. Awesome place to meet up and hang out. The music is hit or miss, but personally that makes it awesome. Give it a shot, I bet you'll be happy.
(5)
Chris C.
GuluGUlu has come leaps and bounds since it first opened.... when there were bugs in the window.... hair in the food...awful service.... and excruciating waits for food, regardless of if you were the only person in there. But it has redeemed itself, becoming cleaner and, overall, a pleasant place to be. Two thumbs up for GuluGulu!!!!
(5)
R B.
nothing amazing for vegeterians, just drinks that are allright bad service no good parking 'nuff said
(1)
Bruno C.
Looking for a "cool" place to hang out in this witchy tourist town? Good people and good food. Our waitress was warm, welcoming and made us feel at home. Creative types would find the atmosphere pleasing. The service was great, but as with any coffee house style eatery, you're not going there for super-speedy service - relax. Check out their website if you're planning to be in the area since they have some cool events and entertainment.
(4)
Scott F.
Like everything about it BUT service can be a little too relaxed.
(4)
Mike H.
This is a fun place. The coffee drinks are fantastic, and the beer selection is superb. The food is quite good. Keep in mind that it's more cafe and less restaurant. The table service is terrible. It's not bad as in the staff is busy, it's bad as in the staff is apathetic. The flip side to this is that the bartenders are fantastic. They know their beers and can help you pick out something you'll like.
(3)
Shari Z.
It isn't often that I fall in love with a place and end up going in often. I am way too distracted and non-committal when it comes to food and beverage options. I like to play the gastronomic field. Why settle down when there is so much choice? Gulu Gulu must be 'the one' then. In a short trip I ended up there often. Here's what I love about Gulu Gulu: Ambiance: sweet, calm, but not dead. There is always music playing, there are games you can play, and with two of four walls being mostly windows, you can watch the world go by as you consume your choice of beverage and write that novel you've been threatening. Staff: Super nice, friendly, however some of the staff are too young to drink and can't recommend from the beer selection (extensive!) Food: The menu offers some refreshingly comforting combinations of great bites, for example the macaroni and cheese with a small salad. The portions are perfect and realistic, not Cheesecake Factory over-generous. Drink: The beer, wine, and coffee menu on the large chalkboards behind the bar are impressive. For me, the Belgian beers ruled. The espresso is perfect, and they actually understand what a double espresso is, unlike the local Dunkin Donuts, who actually gave me four cups of espresso when I ordered two double espressos...um..? There is also a calendar of events and entertainment alongside the menus behind the bar so you won't have to sift through piles of fliers to figure out that day/night's entertainment. Try the cheese plate with a Framboise beer when you have just under an hour to kill before you need to hustle over to the commuter rail down the street. Heaven. I Gulu Gulu, and so must you.
(5)
Christi F.
Gulu Gulu is my go-to lunch spot in Salem. Just about everything I've had, from the crepes to salads to cheese plate to soup, has been delicious. And the beer menu rocks! Make sure you try one of the many daily beer specials. I've only been here during the day, so I can't comment on the night scene or the live music (though I wish I could!) The daytime atmosphere works for all ages and it's relatively baby-friendly, though I wouldn't bring a toddler for fear of disrupting people working on their laptops.
(4)
Brian L.
Meat. Cheese. Bread. On a plate. Best beer list this side of the Wild Horse on the North Shore. Why do people complain about the service? No rush. Where are you going. This is perfect and brings Salem up from being a dump to having ahint of non-Geek Halloween/Touristy culchah!
(5)
Jacqui C.
We LOVE Gulu Gulu! Found it by accident and by luck one day as we wandered around downtown Salem. Friends had recommended the place next to it but we wanted to check it out anyway. We've now made it OUR place whenever we go to Salem. What do I love about Gulu Gulu...hmmm. The atmosphere and decor make me think of college students with piercings and late night cramming sessions before Finals. The food makes me think of a great European cafe. So far I've had any number of dishes (their savory crepes are wonderful) but I tend now to stick with the Chicken Cordon Bleu Crepe or the Bagel with Lox. They have great coffees, a very large selection of beers, and I have yet to find a seating area there that was not good. The servers are great, quick and unobtrusive...if you want to stay for hours and nurse a cappuchino you go right ahead...you want to grab a quick sandwich or have a full meal, you bet! Yummy food, funky atmosphere, great staff...what more can a gal ask for?
(5)
Suzanne O.
This place is as close to a European bar as you will get on the North Shore, which is why I love it. 1- you can walk there from wherever you are parked in Salem. 2- the wireless is free and you can stay for hours upon hours in comfy seating so long as you have a tab. 3- it is very eclectic, but in a unique, modern, artistic kind of way. 4- the quality of the drinks, beers, and food is amazing. I particularly love the Three Philosophers beer (9.8% abv) and the Meat and Cheese Coalition (choose from three meats and cheeses served with fresh, toasted bread). The crepes are great, too. And the sandwiches. My favorite drinks were the white cloud and white raspberry lattes. If you have not been by the Gulu Gulu, you have to go. Screw Starbucks.
Stopped in for an early breakfast on Halloween, before the (rest of the) tourists woke up. We each ordered a veggie & fried egg sandwich on ciabatta toast - cheesy and crunchy and not so huge. I had a few cups of great dark coffee, and since the crowds hadn't yet descended en masse, it was nice to have a chance to ramble around the cafe to see all the zombie-themed art on walls. Wish we had a place like this back at home...
(4)
Chantal G.
I've been to Gulu Gulu a few times. They have a great selection of beer and different types of cheeses.I love that they have various events planned every night. Definitely a good place for a date or a hangout with friends.
(4)
Geoff M.
I went there once, I haven't been back. Gulu Gulu isn't bad by any stretch, but I can't really say it's good either. Good: Extensive Beer list. Excellent, excellent Bruschetta. Istanbul grilled panini is tasty. Bad: Service was very slow and they weren't crowded at all, they all seemed kinda high. Wine list doesn't match the beer list. No sides available. Tiramisu wasn't up to par. I wasn't a huge fan of the ambiance. It almost seemed like they were trying too hard to be cool, but I guess that's a "to each his own" sort of thing. My former roommate seemed to like it, but I think that had a lot to do with one cute waitress and the fact that he is a complete and utter moron, and totally thinks he's that cool and new age, when he's really just a dolt. I would consider going back, if I was in the mood for what they have, but it's been quite a while, and I haven't found my way back. The place has potential.
(2)
Ash B.
There are more detailed reviews here, so I will simply add my own details... For me, the pluses are free wi-fi, a large open interior, lots of windows, ok menu, and drinkable coffee (but nothing to write home about). On my second time there, I ordered a sandwich, and the server brought out two saying that they were running out of bread and took the opportunity to finish it off and said I could take the other sandwich if I wanted, which I did (since the first one was pretty good). On the downside, the service (except for that one nice exception) is pretty lousy. The last time, I sat down and could see them look at me but I was not acknowledged and it took them about 10 minutes before anyone even came over. So, do not go here if you are in a hurry. Gulu Gulu is a fine place to just hang out when there is time to kill, but the service certainly leaves something to be desired.
(3)
C P.
Gulu Gulu is fun, the staff is great and the atmosphere is usually busy but chill. It can be intimidating walking in because it's seat yourself and usually hard to find a table, but look around and you'll see one mixed in, in my case it always seems to be the last one open. The food is good, it's a pretty light menu consisting mostly of snacks, crepes, wraps and paninis. The crepes are great. The drinks are great, they don't have a full liquor license so they have (an amazing selection of) beer, a kinda blah selection of wine, and creative martinis made out of flavored liquors. They just can't serve "real vodka/rum etc...". For vegetarians it's a decent selection, not the best and for vegans you might want to try some place else. As far as I can remember they have one vegan wrap and I'm sure a salad.
(3)
Salvatore P.
We went to Gulu today for breakfast after having been there only for beers before. We decided never to eat there after seeing the state of the kitchen. It is a complete disaster. Dirty and badly organized with stuff everywhere. But today we said we would give it a shot anyway. So we sat far away from the kitchen. Out of sight out of mind! We're glad we ate there. We had the breakfast sandwiches which I easily could have had four of! And the banana peanut butter crepe was awesome. French press coffee was so rich and delicious. My advice to the owner's (if they ever read these) is to overhaul the kitchen and really clean it up. Service is a bit slow and chaotic it seems. But it has a laid back vibe so it wasn't really a problem for us. We dont mind slow service so much anyway since if we are out to eat we are rarely looking to rush in and out of the place. I am a recovering urban hipster so I like the atmosphere there and really like the eclectic music. Iggy Pop at breakfast is definitely my scene!
(3)
Gerry L.
Sandwiches are good, salad was fresh. Very casual atmosphere, younger crowd. Seems to be a place where people hang out for a while.
(3)
C P.
Sickening customer service and a pretentious atmosphere gets this place a 1 star and if it were possible to give 0 stars i would. I have never been treated so rudely by people who are in a service industry. The holier than thou hipster crowd love this place, pretentious beer selection and pretentious wait staff AVOID AT ALL COSTS. Unless you are a d-bag like everyone who goes to/works here.
(1)
Elizabeth B.
What a fantastic place! So much character, I love the art for sale on the wall, the bohemian feel, the unique light menu, the drinks, and the servers are friendly but not corporate fake chain restaurant friendly. I had a glass of white wine and started with the homemade hummus and vegetable platter which is delicious. I then moved onto the portabello mushroom, sun-dried tomato, goat cheese, salad which was good, but next time I will have the dressing on the side. My friend had a beer and enjoyed a turkey pannini which he loved. Gulu Gulu offers live music Thursday thru Saturday nights and possibly more days too? Gulu Gulu is clean, friendly, a great place for lunch, light dinner, coffee or drinks. Kind of reminds me of the coffee shop in the tv show friends. I will be back to check out the live music scene. Great place to meet friends and people watch : )
(3)
Chris H.
This is a great eclectic place to get some great food! If you're not into that eclectic feel of a place, then Gulu-Gulu is probably not for you. Their selection of food is not that extensive, but it is all fantastic. They have a large selection of beers, and I have heard from others that the music they occasionally have is great as well. I love this quirky little place, and I will definitely go back many more times!
(4)
Kelly G.
GF and I went on a north-shore drive today and ended up lunching at Gulu-Gulu...mostly because of the giant Boston Terrier head painted on the window. The atmosphere is funky. The service is great-- Steven is a peach. The beer selection is broad (including some fun Czech beers). But the food is a little underwhelming. GF felt like her crepe was too soft (almost like it was steamed). I had a chicken caesar...the croutons were inedible...I couldn't chew them...but the salad itself was fine.
(3)
Sharon L.
Love Gulu Gulu! Great beer selection, sandwiches are awesome and hte crepes are even better (especially the nutella one). Only downside is its slightly chaotic trying to find a seat when crowded. Other than that the food, atmosphere, and music always makes for a fun time!
(4)
Caroline D.
This place is ok if you like noise. I used to live in Salem and my housemate and I would go there on occasion. We went for coffee and desert never really food. Coffee was decent and desert as well. On occasion we did try to go there for food but they either weren't serving, ran out of a bunch of stuff or it was too loud for us to stay. See, they often have local bands and stuff going on to really try and get a cafe vibe going on. Unfortunately they don't regulate the sound at all and it ends up being a total downer. This place does try really hard at being a European styled cafe with food, coffee and beer but the coffee could be better, the food isn't always the best if they have what you want at all and the noise level on evenings in wicked.
(3)
Daisy M.
This place is a jewel in the neighborhood- a great place to hang with friends, play cards or a board game, or listen to some live music at night. We've tried most of their savory crepes, and breakfast crepes, too. Sandwiches, soups, salads cappuccino, all excellent! Portions are good, food is VERY FRESH, and prices are also good. The ambiance is hip and lively. Pros: outdoor patio dining, great coffee drinks, and CREPES ; ) Cons: noisy; service is a bit slow, so we just don't go here if we're rushed or stressed.
(4)
Annie M.
This place is awesome. I'm here at least twice a month. The menu doesn't change very often, which is my only complaint, as I am lactose intolerant and can't really eat any of the paninis. The food is AMAZING though. Everything is great and the prices are very good. The service has always been wonderful when I'm here, and the same few waiters are usually working. They are very nice and accommodating to your needs. There's definitely a strong hipster vibe here, which provides for some great people watching when you're with friends. The weirdest thing happened the other night though- I went to dinner here on an open mic night Wednesday, and one of the guys "warming up" on stage was just playing the same note over and over again on a kazoo or some little train horn thing... if that makes sense... anyways it was really odd but we laughed about it! I think they cater, too! One thing that should be noted- Gulu Gulu does not sell Coke/Pepsi products, but they do have a "Curiosity Cola" that is local/organic instead, although it doesn't taste like coke at all.
(4)
Mary D.
It was a bit crowded around lunch time - but it was worth the short wait for a table. The beer menu was wide and the food was good. I really liked the raspberry strong ale. The service was friendly and I loved the dog paintings.
(4)
Jesse E.
This place is great! I haven't tried their food, but the Gulu Gulu cafe is just a really cool place. They serve coffee drinks and a wide array of alcoholic beverages.. All from a bar. They also have wait service and live music. This is a great place to see some local bands and an even better place for bands who want exposure. The atmosphere is great. I haven't tried their food, but I doubt that would change my opinion. This place is the perfect hangout.. Probably the coolest place to hang out in Salem.
(4)
Ryan D.
The atmosphere in Gulu is impossible to beat. It is an excellent spot to hang out with a fantastic beer selection either at lunch or the evening. The place is relatively small, but you can usually grab a spot to sit. The combination of layout and size really add to the feeling in there. Fantastic breakfast crepes are a highlight for breakfast. And you can't beat the appetizer list [cheese and meat coalition for example, grape leaves, humus]. One of my favorite spots as a Salem resident to grab a spot and hang out with a good beer and excellent music...
(5)
Jeremy H.
if you like hipsters, good food and lotts of people this place is for you
(3)
Molly W.
Came here with a friend mid-day and had a wonderful time! We had a lot of catching up to do, and the waitress let us take our time ordering, and was very accommodating. They have a great beer selection, and a diverse menu of apps, salads and sammies. It has a coffee house feel, but I could see that it's a bar at night... intriguing! I'll have to come back and experience the nightlife here, but as a lunch spot it was just lovely. It was surprisingly busy for a lunch crowd - a true testament to how popular and successful it is! Obviously I am not alone when I say "Yay! I'm a fan."
(4)
Jennifer S.
I am a fan. I come here a couple of times a month. I love checking out the latest art work and actually picked up a beautiful piece of art a few months back. This is really not the type of place you go to when you are in a rush and want a quick lunch. It has a laid back attitude and chill environment. Servers are not jumping to come wait on you, but get to you in a reasonable amount of time. If you are into micro brew beer you absolutely have to check this place out. They have one of the largest, most unique beer selections I have ever come across. I have been here at night and during the day. It is definitely a hipster bar, but a friendly one. Their cheese platter is good, the hummus is tasty and overall nice light food selection. Stuff your hamburger loving husband would probably not be into, but your vegetarian friend will swoon over. I come here on occasions for lunch when I work from home and need to clear my mind. they have excellent wi fi. overall I like it
(4)
Alexander H.
This place was a nice little surprise. We ordered a turkey sandwich and a veggie wrap and both of us enjoyed the food thoroughly. The wait staff was efficient and very friendly, and seemed to be genuinely happy to be working there. The deserts -- I had a fruit smoothie and my friend had a freshly baked scone -- were absolutely delicious. A couple of days later, we found ourselves back in that neighborhood and made the mistake of trying the place next door, the Upper Crust. We were so disappointed that we immediately went back next door to the Gulu Gulu Cafe and again enjoyed their delicious deserts and friendly wait staff, which successfully took the Upper Crusty taste out of our mouths (both literally and figuratively). Definitely worth a return trip!
(4)
Raithaa Z.
I'm in love. Seriously. Where else can you go for breakfast to get a plate of manchego cheese and chorizo (just one possible combination you can create when you order a delightfully named "Meat and Cheese Coalition"), even when your unadventurous dining companion just wants a bowl of Fruit Loops? Gulu Gulu Cafe is the best of all worlds when it comes to having a little bite or a cup of coffee by day, or a pint of beer or glass of wine by night. OR day. Whatever. I dig the funky atmosphere, the central location, and great, eclectic menu. And yes, a fantastic beer and wine selection, too. Living in Cambridge, I'd like to think I have a good amount of exposure to a wide spectrum of bars/restaurants, and Gulu Gulu ranks at the top. Worth the hike to the North Shore at least once every month or two. My only critique is the slight dinginess about the place. Honestly, I wish I could give Gulu Gulu a good overnight scrubdown. I realize that a place like this, which has both a day and a night life, can be tough to maintain spotlessly, but its mildly manky quality is the only thing preventing me from giving Gulu Gulu the full five stars. But whatever, if I'm in Salem and feeling a touch peckish, I can count on Gulu Gulu to give me something yummy to nosh on, and some cute puppies to look at.
(4)
Lisa C.
This is a fun place..lots of live music and really yummy coffee drinks. If you're in the mood for a beer, the selection is AWESOME!! I haven't tried the food, so I can't comment on that.
(4)
Cara Z.
If you're an art, music, or theatre student at the nearby Salem State University, you're pretty much expected to know of this place. It's hard to walk in and not know anyone in there for me. Amazing food selection, very quirky and unexpected. I absolutely love the Mac n' Cheese here, its very different and yet so, so delicious! One visit I went in, I asked for the remnants to be wrapped up... the waitress came out and told me that the kitchen had thrown it out... but she had them make me some fresh and hot! THAT is a great example of amazing customer service! The drink selection is also amazing, I have yet to try any of the alcoholic drinks here, but the list seems very impressive. Now, why I gave it four stars... the simple fact is, it can get EXTREMELY crowded in here. While I love it, if the place is packed, I cannot go in, and it always breaks my heart. Keep it up Gulu, you've won me over!
(4)
Jon H.
This is one of those places you give three tries because you keep telling yourself it has to work, and you really want to support it. I could probably get over the mediocre service, because it is pretty mediocre. But for a place that brands itself as a unique, independent cafe, their food manages to be more bland than Panera. The salads taste like someone bought a Doll mixed green bag from Crosby's and put a few drops of dressing on it. And the sandwiches feel, well, inept. It's a funny coincidence that this place and Upper Crust are both next to each other. They both seem to cater to people who go out to eat because they identify with the theme of the restaurant rather than, you know, the actual food. As for an alternative, if you don't mind the drive check out the Daily Harvest Cafe in Danvers if you're looking for a good sandwich or salad.
(2)
Timothy A.
Great evening spot with unique beers you've never tasted. We heard the Squeezebox Stompers, one of the best North Shore bands. Night club with breakfast.
(4)
Jen M.
Gulu is one of my favorite places in Salem. Now that I'm often towing along a baby when I'm out, it's retained favorite status by being kid-friendly (really all I need for that is 1) being cool with the kids being there, and 2) a decent sized bathroom that's clean enough for me to change a diaper and nurse a baby). The beer selection is excellent, and while I've been not drinking I've really enjoyed their smoothies and their ridiculously good hot cocoa. The sandwiches and salads are fantastic (try the Barcelona!).
(5)
Missus F.
smores crepe. trust me. awesome awesome crepes and salads. the actual crepe has a good, not bland flavor. gulu is great for weeknight meet ups with pals to catch up. it's a really cool atmosphere. check it.
(4)
Wyatt B.
Best coffee I have in a long time. Seating was a little interesting walking in, but service was great and the coffee! Worth the trip.
(5)
chris r.
My fiance and I visited Gulu on a recent October Saturday afternoon. The restaurant was relatively busy (very few empty tables by about 1PM) but we found a table without a problem. We were prompty approached by the waitress and our drink orders taken. They have a wide variety of beers and a decently sized wine list, along with a specialty range of sodas and diet coke. I went for the Cisco Whale's Tale Pale Ale and the future hubby got their version of coke (which tasted like any generic cola). After surveying the menu we both chose the meat and cheese plate, which allows you to choose 3 items from the large cheese menu and limited cured meat menu. Your selections are served with plenty of hot, toasted bread and a small bed of greens. Overall, this was plenty of food for me, but my fiance was ready for a sandwich about 3 hours later. I was happy with our lunch and the very reasonable price. I will note, however, that what appears to be a revolving art collection featured modern paintings of naked women, which may provide an endless source of entertainment should you decide to bring your 13 y.o. sons along. Most of the children in the restaurant were the infants of 30-something parents.
(4)
Kat H.
This place saved me on the day I had jury duty. We got a long break and were told to go explore, eat, drink & be merry before facing the guillotine of being called...so I wandered a bit, poked my head in here and there, and finally ended up at Gulu Gulu. I was the only person in there, so after perusing their lengthy menu (though rather scant on breakfast...they have bagels, muffins and crepes) got a white chocolate latte and toasted bagel. The wait staff (two gals) were awesome--chatty, friendly, and I wouldn't have minded staying there all day. They've got the inside set up very nicely...a couch or two, some big comfy chairs, coffee tables and regular tables of all sizes and shapes...a mix-matched art-house wonder. The local art on the way actually tempted me to buy some too, a very rare occurrence, I'm sorry to say. And yes, the plain bagel was great, the latte just right with TONS of foam. Am certainly planning to go back for a panini or light dinner sometime. They do have wi-fi, but didn't notice if paying is necessary...if I remember right, it's free with purchase, but don't quote me on that. And that was exactly what I needed on the hell-day of jury duty; so if any of you get summoned to the Salem Court House, I highly recommend you spend some time here.
(4)
Meghan M.
How can I even describe Gulu Gulu Cafe in words? Some of the words would be synonyms with incredible. At first I was completely in love with their gigantic chalkboard menu, and the entire layout of the place. The place has this very laid back, hip vibe. The atmosphere was great. Now, for the wrap. Oh-- that beloved wrap. My Hearty Vegetarian wrap, was phenomenal. I was a bit skeptical when ordering it at first. But, it was out of this world good. When I had finished eating this glorious wrap, the very nice waitress came over and gave us our check. At the bottom of our total was: "Keep Smiling! May The Force Be With You!".
(5)
Shawn B.
TBGT is a fav for lunch.
(4)
Thomas J.
I've been here a few times with friends, mainly for drinks. They have an interesting drink selection that includes absinthe, their prices are what you'd expect and seating is pretty good. They're located right in the center of town, not hard to miss, and have a big staff. Nothing about this place is amazing or great though, just eh. You can come and go and never be left with a good or bad impression. If you find yourself in Salem and want a quick lunch or drink, go for it, but I'd never plan to go here.
(3)
DeeJay H.
This place is the cutest coffee shop under the sun. Great decor, live music, friendly staff and the tastiest sandwiches money can buy. I just enjoyed one of their lovely wraps- roast beef and boisin- served with a fresh salad and chips...it was a lot of bang for a small buck (and in this economy...blah blah blah). They had all sorts of yummy beverages/italian sodas/etc. Can't wait to try it again!
(4)
E S.
I'm gonna go ahead and change my mind about this place. I've ended up back there a few times and while I still can't rave about the food, the service has improved and I appreciate what they add to downtown Salem. It is a very comfortable place to see some live music and there's always some good local art on the walls.
(4)
John P.
Great place to eat, have a great cup of coffee and utilize the free Internet access.
(5)
Erin W.
Food's reasonably good. Great beer list! The service tends to be a little slow, so if you're trying to get in and out, then it might not be a great fit. But, if you're looking for a middle-of-the-day place to hang with your laptop.... there's no better place in Salem. Nice to sit outside in sunny weather. (The Apple and Brie Crepe is yummy.)
(4)
frank p.
ok albeit all i had was a smoothie there this is definetely worth coming back for.. after all, its a cafe and i want a good drink got the banana smoothie.. not only is it dairy free (which is a plus cuz im lactose intolerant) it was thick, creamy and soooo rich.. mmmmmm im definetely going back again, even if its just for the drinks. i was impressed!
(4)
Fiona T.
Lunch on a weekday afternoon -- the place was pretty empty as we arrived after the lunch peak period. I had the turkey panino and my friend had the portobello spinach crepe, both were yummy, especially my sandwich. The waitress was really forthcoming with recommendations. We sat on the patio, and it was really nice.
(5)
Lucien D.
An independent coffee bar in Salem. It has a little bit of everything including a nice selection of drinks. If you go in the daytime it's a nice coffee cafe if you go at night it gets to be more of a bar-like atmosphere. Great place to people watch.
(4)
Amber L.
I love the laid back atmosphere of Gulu-Gulu and the food. The wait time, however, is not so nice. It can take forever to get your food, check, or even for the waitstaff to initially come to your table! I've come here at all different hours and during varying times of business; the long wait never seems to change. On the plus side I enjoy their drink selection -- alcoholic and non-alcoholic and their cheese plate is amazing and VERY filling. The minus two stars really is only because of the wait so if you do not mind a long wait then you will absolutely love this place.
(3)
Alyssa N.
Trekked up to Salem to see a friend of mine DJ here. Much bigger than the Lynn cafe. Staff was a little spacey. One staffer told me the kitchen was closed not long after another staffer served J the dessert crepes he'd ordered. In the end (and after some confusion), I got my traditional Czech crepes, which delighted me very much. These light crepes with a sweet/tart plum filling are a wonderful treat. Good wine/beer list, including some sort of Belgian Kriek that I really like. And have I mentioned the fantastic chocolate chip cookies? Stays open late (especially for Salem?), which is always a good thing, since it's way more chill than a (traditional) bar.
(3)
Ashley L.
Just moved to Salem and Gula Gula is already one of my favorite places. Although I should preface this with... I've only seated myself at the bar so I can't rate the table service. I've been to get work done on my laptop and to have some drinks with friends. The beer is good (although it would be nice to see some lower priced drafts and bottles on the menu), the selection is good and I ordered a sandwich and thought it was pretty awesome. For $7.50 I got a delicious grilled panini (the Istanbul), chips and some greens. Not too shabby considering the sandwich shop down the street charges more than that for just the sandwich. LOVE the atmosphere. Friday night wasn't super packed and the people watching is great. You'll find all types of people here and the wait staff seems to know a lot of them and are super friendly. The live music wasn't spectacular but I've only heard it once so I'm not sure that i can really judge. All in all, decent food prices, very laid back and chill atmosphere and some incredible people watching. Would definitely recommend checking this place out.
(4)
Allison C.
Highly recommend for breakfast and lunch. Their loose leaf tea is divine as are the breakfast sandwiches, muffins, and wraps. Evening entertainment varies. You must wait in line and order your food at the bar, this place fills up quickly, so you may have a long wait. Sometimes entertainment on open mike night is so bad it's painful.
(4)
Walleyecrue W.
Good brew selection- tea, coffee or beer. The ham crepe is a tasty treat after a few hours @ PEM.
(4)
Sarah C.
i have only been here once, however was blown away by one sandwich, that i have to return. i can't recall the name of the sandwich, but it had turkey, pesto, and a lot more garlic. i am a huge fan of garlic. it came with a side of chips, and they have a nice beer selection. i love how they have cereal you can order. the staff seems very friendly, and they play good music here. it seems like a great place to go with friends and have a nice, laid back time. they have some doors outside too which is nice for the spring or fall.
(4)
Jared R.
Interesting menu choices. Food was ok. Lots of beer choices... just be sure to keep an eye on your server. I saw her once for my order and once for my check... I would have liked a few more glasses of water considering the extremely salty food choices I made. The service really knocks 2 stars off my review. Will try again as I always try to look for the best.
(2)
Michael W.
This has to be a short review , but... Cheese Platter can feed 2, great beer selection, SOUPS! STEWS! Friendly atmosphere. Play Bananagrams on Sunday, Last Sunday of the month DRAG KING AND QUEEN show. Great place.
(4)
George A.
This place is my shiz-nit. If you want a nice relaxing night with coffee's, imported beers and wines you should skip Boston and come here.
(5)
Abraham D.
Let me preface this by saying that I have been here no less than 7 times, and my first few experiences were more in the line of 4 stars. On my last three trips the experience was not nearly as favorable. Instead of posting my gripe publicly, I sent an email to Gulu Gulu that I perceived to be constructive and well thought out. It has been about a month and they did not acknowledge my email, which leads me to believe that they have no interest in improving or acknowledging their short comings. The food here is good. Nothing amazing, but certainly tastes good and there are enough options to keep lunch interesting or to grab an appetizer before dinner. The service has always been great. It is a laid back cafe and I do not expect super quick formal service. Everyone that has waited on me has been friendly and eager to assist when something is amiss. Since I go here for the beer, I have no choice but give 2 stars. Sure they have a nice selection but the quality of their taps is questionable. On three separate occasions I was served poor quality draft beer. The first time the beer was flat, and tasted a bit old. It may have been that they had not run the tap for that particular beer but either way it was a let down. The second time they served me a beer chock full of white chunks. I assume this was related to a keg conditioned ale but either way it way it was at an unacceptable level. The third time they served me a beer that was not only warm but it lacked any carbonation whatsoever. It was tepid and totally undrinkable. Do they clean the lines, do they run the lines before the shift, are they keeping old beer on lines? It is hard to say, but my guess is that in an effort to offer some different beers they have forgotten that regardless of having a nice name like Unearthly, if it is not taken care of and served properly it makes a great beer become undrinkable. Thank you to the Owner for a very nice response! I will return soon and hope to improve my rating upon my next visit.
(2)
Randie F.
The first time I went here I was really impressed, but I think I just must have been really hungry because I never felt that way again. Overall, the food's ok, but not great. One time my panini was so overtoasted, the bread was hard as a rock. Another time they messed up my crepe order. Maybe if I was a drinker I'd like this place more, but...I think it's also pretty sucky that they closed their Lynn location as soon as the Salem one started to take off. Salem has enough trendy, restaurants. It was really something special for Lynn.
(3)
Freddie C.
pretty cool place. kind of messy and unorganized. no hostess or bus staff it appeared, even though it was a busy friday afternoon on halloween weekend.. a couple dirty tables were available to sit at but we didnt want to be those people so we sat at the bar. we an app called the " utopenec" that was cold sausages (links) cut in half just sitting in some pickle juice with peperocini's with toast points on the side...really lame! then we each had a panini and split them. the " palermo " which was some italian meats and provolone and the " die berliner" which was black forest ham sauerkraut, red onion and dijon. both paninis were excellent...but everything else was very mediocre.. also the menus were dirty, they were out of the first 3 beers we requested and service was nice but very very slow...would probably give gulu gulu cafe another try
(3)
Shelby M.
The absolute worst service this side of the Mississippi. I've been here a bunch of times - great beer selection and food, but seriously, the WORST service ever. You'll be seated, wait 15 minutes for a bitchy waitress to leave you with a menu, then wait another 20 minutes for her to take your order. Meanwhile, she'll plop herself at the bar and chat with friends while you watch your food sit on the counter and get cold. Go for the atmosphere and beer selection, but if you get a table, get up and take a walk to the bar...don't even bother waiting for someone to take your order.
(2)
Ellen M.
I've been to Gulu-Gulu a couple of times and thought it fun, but had a strange experience there this week. I went into Gulu to get a cup of coffee and was looking at the menu and noticed that the "coffee of the day" was a dark roast coffee. I don't like dark roast coffee and asked if they had mocha coffee or another light roast available. The waitress said they didn't have any other coffee but the dark roast. I told her that I didn't like dark roast coffee and she said I should try it, I again told her I had that particular coffee and didn't like it. She kind of started to have attitude, didn't ask me if I wanted anything else instead.... but stood there. I decided to leave, and I won't be back. Its rather silly to have an establishment that is supposed to be a cafe and only offers one type of coffee, but the larger issue to me was the waitress who was really inept at her job.
(1)
ChianWen T.
I was at Gulu2 Cafe from 9am to 5pm for most of December '07. I worked on my resume there. I had phone interviews there. I tried to sell my soul to the corporate world there. I received news of a job offer there. I even punched a friend who had traveled hundreds and hundreds of miles through one of the worst storms just to see me there. Well, I was too excited over the prospect of being employed! All that was true. I thank Gulu2 for allowing me to abuse their wifi. I thank them for their yummy panini sandwiches and warm tea. I thank them for providing a relaxing space for my job-search. There is live music or one thing or another there most evenings. It's a funky atmosphere (by that I don't mean that it's stinky in anyway). Good place for a drink and people-watch (lots of interesting characters).
(4)
eliza b.
Updated! Like Frank B, I really wanted to love this place. I liked the coffeehouse+ concept as a native NY'r, MA doesn't have enough of them. My first visit and thoughts --the menu was varied, salad was fresh, sandwiches were unique and delish, good prices, nice to have a place to go to with WiFi access. Each night they have something going on, a very decent place to meet friends. Only issue was service, slow to take order, slow to bring the food, didn't ask if I wanted anything else...or the check! Even when I asked the server about dessert, she gave me the menu and never came back to take the order. Thank you from saving me from the calories ;). I am a fan and would recommend to others and will be back. If you go as group (10+) call ahead and see if they can accommodate. Shout out to Steve for reaching out about the service, kudos to you & an extra STAR!
(4)
Bridget D.
This place is quality, as my dear friend Scotty would say. They have tasty coffee concoctions like the russel stover with coconut and chocolate syrups. It is like drinking a warm candy bar. My little sister enjoys the local brews, like the Wachusett Blueberry. You can partake in the yummy appetizers like the three cheese plate with marinated brie or the interesting crepes with blue cheese, walnuts, and apples. I want the painting on the wall that looks like a pack of topps garbage pail kids trading cards! SWEET! But, by far one of the best aspects of the Gulu Gulu in Salem is the local live music. I recently saw Radio Scotvoid and the Curios Allstars. A funky collective of talented musicians led by an amazingly talented DJ and his magical computer. They had a solid jam that flowed so well. I made a new friend in Walnut Da Lyrical Genie who performed some sweet ryhymes. If you happen to be in the Salem area, check them out on May 2. There is also a big screen that shows films in the background behind the bands. One time there was a very strange birthing video. I saw placenta and I was mildly scarred. The Gulu has a good vibe, yummy food and beverages, and is a chill place to hang out with your companions and hear unique music.
(5)
Topher D.
Haven't eaten there, so can't comment on that - but what a wide array of beers/drinks, and godo service - only complaint is it gets super loud when bands are on, but I guess thats the point of bands playing isn't it? Definitely a great place to finish the night at
(4)
Nick D.
My first experience with this place was using it for internet when I first moved to Salem because Comcast sucks at life. It's right down the street from me so I'm there at least once a week. Their specialty coffees are awesome and priced reasonably and the ever-changing art on the walls keeps my little mind amused. The indy-kid-tattoo-crazy staff is always helpful and in a good mood from my experience. The music on the weekends is a good change but they could benefit from turning the speakers down from "eardrum rupture" to something that would allow you to have a conversation with the person next to you without screaming. You can't leave this place without trying the crepes....mmm...crepes.....
(4)
Matthias J.
My wife and I went to the Peabody Essex Museum on Sunday. Since PEM opens at 10:00 am, we decided to have breakfast at Gulu-Gulu first. When we got there at 9:30 am, there was parking on the street right in front of the restaurant and plenty of available tables. By the time we returned from PEM ~11:30, things were much busier. The food was excellent, moderately priced and the place has a nice atmosphere. My wife ordered a cappuccino and a sandwich from the lunch menu and I had a breakfast sandwich on a fresh baked croissant and a Nutella-banana crepe. The crepe was huge and I almost regretted having ordered both items (only until I tasted them). It was a bit too early for beer, but there were a few on the blackboard that made me wish it was later in the day. The great thing is, you can leave the car there and walk less than 10 minutes through the pedestrian zone to the museum. What a find! We'll certainly be back.
(5)
Danielle B.
Nice relaxed atmosphere, had a Eden Crepe which had almonds, honey and apples and it was tasty and came pretty quick. I would have given them 5 stars but i ordered a cappucino & got a latte, really though, who cares, its a nice addition to downtown Salem. They have a great beer selection and wine list which i'd like to come back for somet night soon.
(4)
lee p.
Gulu Gulu is my favorite place for lunch on the North Shore. Especially when it's warm out and you can sit outside and have an iced latte! The service is a bit slow, but it's a great place to people watch the tourists, esp. around that stupid Elizabeth Montgomery statue. I love their bagels and lox plate, their hummus is good, and they make a dangerously good iced latte.
(4)
Anna B.
If I could give 10 stars I would. Amazing food, excellent location, and perfect service. I highly recommend their meat and cheese plate - the marinated brie is delectable. Also, the coffee selection is top notch. Sarah Jean was a friendly and attentive server. Definitely coming back.
(5)
Joanne H.
Just returned home from a visit to Salem. Gulu gulu is wonderful. We were traveling for the first time with our 8 month old puppy. That Meant at we are able to eat in their outdoor dining area. We had lunch there and the food was fresh and great. They made us and our pup feel welcome!
(5)
Hungry C.
We had some wine and hummus. Meh. Not really our kind of scene. We did buy a Bataclan painting though, and that was nice.
(2)
Sara S.
I have very mixed feelings about this place. I absolutely love the fun atmosphere, and the food and drinks are great. However, the service is pretty bad, and that's coming from someone who's not high-maintenance about restaurant service. We went in on a Saturday night. There appeared to be 2 waitresses on. For the entire place. My boyfriend went up to one of them to ask about a table, and was told under no uncertain terms that it was "seat yourself". We stood for about 5-10 minutes, then grabbed the first available table. 20 minutes later, we were still staring at the dirty glasses left by the table's previous occupants. No menus, no "hello", no "sorry, we're understaffed and will be with you soon." We finally left. It was a huge disappointment, and at the end of it, we were still hungry and thirsty. And grumpy.
(2)
Ben L.
I went there without much for expectations but I had heard good things about their other location. Inside it is quite nice with some good local art up on the walls. Oddly it seemed like they got a bit of light inside despite the overcast sky outside and in a way it detracted from my cafe mentality of the place. Their menu was rather eclectic and tough they seemed to have a couple of decent options I would have liked to see a bit more. Part of it may just be my aversion to mustard and pressed sandwiches. I ended up getting a Munich. It fit the bill for the moment but was partially ruined because they got a bit aggressive with the vinaigrette for the side salad so it decided to divide and conquer, part of the bread on my sandwich. They did gain back a bit of redemption by having a good solid cup of coffee and though neither service nor pricing were spectacular bothy somehow seemed to fit the bill.
(4)
Chelsea B.
This place is a blast and a half. I love posting about pubs, so I guess this would count, but it's also so much more! DELICIOUS menu of interesting Czech-inspired food (but also very American-friendly options). Savory crepes are just to die for. The music is interesting (if not always good; sorry, but open-mic is all about variety...), the atmosphere upbeat, funky; the interior fantastically quirky and fun. It just makes you feel good to be here on a Sunday morning or for an early dinner. My one caveat is that service here can be incredibly slow, and inexplicably so. I've sat here on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon with not many other diners and walked out again because no one came to wait on me. Weird.
(4)
Katie P.
Whatever Cola they serve is really good. It comes in a bottle and they give you ice. Really yummy stuff. Off to a good start. I've been here several times for lunch. I live and die for plates of meat and cheese. They have it. I went today with my friend Gabbie. I had a feeling she'd love it. We got a cheese and meat plate that was yummy. We Spanish Themed it and got Chorizo, Manchengo Cheese and Goat chesee, to spread on the bread. The goat cheese used was amazing. YUM! Then we had crepes. Mine was Chicken Cordon Bleu. Not only did it have ham, the added addition of bacon surprised me. How did the crepe maker KNOW i LOVED bacon???? Bacon was not a listed ingredient. YUM!!!!! It needed a slight bit more of the mustard and cheese tho, but I still ate every last bite. Gab-arific had a portabello, spinach and feta crepe that she devoured. It looked and smelled really good. My only slight complaint is that my creme Brulee latte coulda had more syrup in it, it needed more sweet flavor. Maybe cuz it was iced, and before I've had it and it was hot. Oh well, next time I'll add sugah. The atmosphere is funky and fun, it's a cool afternoon for lunch with a friend. There's always interesting people around to observe. I like that in a place.
(4)
T R.
love it! it is the perfect place to go. food is wonderful. best atmosphere. the only complaint i have is that since they have events nightly at 8, you really need to finish dinner by then if you want to be able to talk without loud music in the background. So if it is anytime past 7:30 we do not go to eat dinner there, because we know we will have to rush to avoid having our conversation drowned out. I wish they started their events at 8:30 or 9, just to give some extra time to talk.
(5)
Tracey N.
Very cool space, with well-chosen Belgian beers and wifi all in a convenient location. Stopped in with a friend and our kids for tea/coffee & snacks. The brownie was good but small, the cookie was big but stale, and all the choclate sauce drizzled on top just made everything messy. Luckily they were showing old Spiderman cartoons (the kind I watched as a kid!) which helped distract the kiddos because they brought out the food and took ages to bring out drinks. The shift change was blamed, but it overall seems like a loungey, hang-out-all-day so why rush kind of spot. Maybe it's not the best to bring a pair of preschoolers riding high on sugar, but otherwise kids are alright here. I'd definitely give it another try.
(3)
Sarah L.
I have been to this restaurant a few times and really enjoyed it. The atmosphere and food are very unique and interesting. I tried the cheese & meat coalition and loved it. I would definitely recommend this place to my friends!
(4)
Fortuna F.
great vibe here and good eats and an amazing beer selection. food recs: chocolate banana crepes banana bread
(5)
Alicia D.
Hooray, now open in Salem. See my Lynn review.
(4)
Christine R.
While looking for a place in Salem with vegetarian options, I stumbled on this place. The menu looked good so my bf and I checked it out recently. I had the hearty vegetarian wrap. I was very pleased with the sandwich and my bf liked his as well. Our complaint was the service though. There was one waitress on a busy Saturday. She didn't take our special requests in and took forever to serve us. However the good food made up for it.
(4)
PuppyCat K.
Great place. Friendly service, wifi. I had the cheese plate - very yummy. Good place to sit after wandering around the town.
(4)
T. M.
I love Gulu Gulu. Great atmosphere, great beer, great crepes. They also have some very delicious bagels with the fluffiest of cream cheese at breakfast time! This is the sort of place you go to because you want to read a book, look at art, or maybe see some live music (or even a great Modern Millie fashion show!). This is NOT the sort of place you go to if you are in a rush. So if you are going to complain about service you really need to relax your sphincter. The staff here are a lovely group of people who are always friendly. True it is not the speediest service ever, but they don't deserve to get slammed about it since they are not working at McDonald's. The staff makes me feel relaxed, unhurried, and welcome. I also like walking in the door and running into a staff member who not only remembers me, but also remembers what I like to order. THAT to me is service. Hooray to Gulu bringing a bit of style and yumminess to Salem!
(5)
Erik P.
Another place i wish i liked more. I love the beer. I love sitting outside and having a beer off said beer list. I just wish the food wasn't so mediocre. Nothing is awful but most of it is not really worth eating. The most i will get is a cheese and meat platter and even that leaves something to be desired. How about a homemade terrine? How about some stinky washed rind cheeses? None of the selections they have are real bad but i just can't get excited about habenero cheddar and genoa salami! I've read some complaints about the service here but I've never had any trouble, most likely because i tend to stop by at extreme off hours when there is hardly anyone there. The employees have always been prompt and friendly though. Not a bad place to stop for a quick bite and a nice beer(or absinthe!).
(3)
Carissa H.
Food was pretty good, and menu was interesting, but the service was aweful. They ran out of the two things I wanted to order, so when I placed my new order, they messed it up and forgot one of the things that I ordered. It's too bad, because the menu has a lot of potential. But I won't go back because the service was horrible.
(2)
Jaime F.
I love this place - when I walk in it feels like home. It's got a very laid back artsy feeling. I love the huge windows that look out onto Essex street and the comfy chairs and couches. The food is great - I've never had a bad meal and I love that I can start with coffee and end with beer all in the same place. I am not a hipster or a punk rocker, I do not have any tattoos nor am I an artist - but I feel completely at home at the Gulu Gulu. I'm not sure why people feel that it is too trendy for them - it is what it is. The place attracts a lot of artist types and young people, but that is fine, I've never felt that I wasn't welcomed there, in fact, conversely, I always feel that the wait staff and customers are friendly.
(5)
K W.
I have been to this cafe twice, first coffee to go and it was fine. I liked the coolness of the place so I visited for the second time with my husband and son.... It was not too busy but when we got our latte, both of our cups were sitting in a good amount of coffee in a saucer, when I lifted the cup it dripped all over my top.... it was not hot enough, like someone did not want to spend much time steam the milk.... I ordered slice of cake which took about 20 minutes to arrive. My coffee got really cold by the time I got it. My husband ordered crape which never came, after 30 minutes of waiting, my son's got forgotten. When we got so tired of waiting, the man behind the counter said "ah, I was just going to work on it" after 30 minutes?? They really did not want to take the charge for the crape off the bill either. Took two complaints. We are not such a hard people to please, but don't want to pay for food we never got and lousy service. We drove over an hour to get there, because it was such a neat place, we will not go back again, maybe we are not "hip" enough people to deserve a decent service. They never apologize either.... :( We left being a bit angry. By the way, this was in Salem store.
(1)
amy f.
After a great day hanging around Rockport, my boyfriend and I swung through Salem for lunch. Serendipitously, we parked right next to the Gulu Gulu and decided to check it out. The space is open and inviting with cool high ceilings, funky art and comfy couches. We opted to sit at the bar and had the pleasure of chatting with the co-owners of this great spot--really great people, and amazing service. They have an eclectic beer selection (Golden Monkey--Mmmm!), and a sandwich menu that was hard to choose from. Our lunch was delicious, and we couldn't help but share a giant cookie that the owner insisted on warming up for us for dessert. My only wish is that they'd open a location in Boston!
(5)
Jennifer R.
Great food & drinks, haven't been let down yet! However it can get a bit noisy on live music nights! friendly staff and pretty cool artwork on the walls.....leading a bit towards the hipster scene so please do pull back a little!
(4)
Jennifer H.
My favorite place to go in Salem! Gulu Gulu (german for glug glug) has a great atmosphere, and great art on the walls. The best panini in town, I suggest the"Stockholm". Paired with a friendly wait staff, and an impressive beer list, this is the place to go!
(5)
Nick D.
If you love beer, different beer, good beer then you probably should check this place out. With few execptions, I find that bars in the beverly/salem area suck. They all serve mostly poor quality beer at high prices, the atmosphere is lame (unless you dig cover charges, pop music and axe body spray) and food is only worth in if you are in the bag. Gulu is a different place, anything goes. The owners are almost always there (they live upstairs) and they are great for conversation. If you need advice on what to order, just ask, the wait staff and owners are glad to offer. As for the menu, they just redid it and I havent eaten there yet. As for drink, the only big name beers are Sierra Nevada and Dogfish Head (both are excelent). They have had the Dogfish Head on tap as well. all the other beers are obscure. Most are small craft brewers in the US and the rest are imports from the EU. As for the price, any thing on draft is comprible to domestic brew (5-7 dollars), bottled being 5-15 dollars. The higher priced beers are normally imports or large bottles. Coffee is great here for the late night boost.
(4)
Jackie T.
I dropped by the cafe since I had a few hours to wait before meeting up with friends. I didn't expect the food to be so delicious! Great wine list too. A DJ came in during the meal and started jamming. The music was not obtrusive. If I lived in Salem I'd make this place a regular hang out. A hidden gem!
(4)
Michael M.
Service is sometimes spotty, but everyone is friendly and aims to please. The beer selection is really great. It's the place to go for lunch with friends in downtown or to rest and relax after a day of ghost hunting in Salem. I really like that for the panini you can mix and match ingredients and combos from the other sandwiches and make your own thing.
(4)
Jacqueline D.
Every time I go to Gulu-Gulu, I wonder why I keep coming back. The service is not good. Like, at all. I wanted lunch on their patio during the week, and there is a sign outside saying to see a server inside for seating, but then inside, there is no one to greet you, and a sign stating that you should seat yourself. So, confusion. I ended up seating myself outside and had to wait at least 10 minutes before someone came over to offer me a menu. Meanwhile, another waitress had walked by me mulitple times without even saying she'd send my server over. Once my server came, things moved more quickly...this time. I've been in 5 or 6 times since the place opened and have always had a problem with service on some level. It is certainly not a place to go for a in-and-out eating experience. I wasn't crunched for time this week, but still not pleased with the lack of expedient service; while there, I also heard another customer complain about the slow service. That being said, the food is good. I had Roast Beef and Boursin wrap, which was actually quite stellar, and I've also had some of their crepes. Now, throw a crepe in front of me, and I'm a happy little girl, so maybe my judgement is off, but the Apple and Brie crepe is Meg-Ryan-in-a-restaurant worthy, if you will. All the food is a tad on the expensive side, too. Over all, I'll probably go back to Gulu-Gulu, and wonder why I do, until I get my food. I'll just leave plenty of time to have a drawn out dining experience.
(3)
Anne D.
The beer menu is huge and varied... high quality stuff and I'd give the selection 5 stars. The food is pretty good as well. We've tried several different things off the menu and have been pleased with the price and the quality of all of it. What keeps it from getting more stars is that it is SO loud on a weekend night. Obviously, bars are supposed to be loud on a weekend but you literally can't carry on a conversation, even at the top of your lungs. And live music... meh. Sometimes bands are good, sometimes there's a reason they're playing a place that doesn't charge you to listen.
(3)
F S.
Funky place, creative atmosphere. "Ok" food. I had a crepe with turkey and feta. It was dry inside; one side of the crepe was filled with meat and the other-- with some feta and olives, so after eating just plain meet I ended with cheese... My friends ordered sweet crepes and liked them better. Coffee is good, but the tea selection could be richer. The service is just ...'different', and I don't mean it in a good way. I am not sure if they care more about themselves or the customers. Our case was pretty comic. We had a waiter constantly going around our table and openly showing her attractiveness to our husbands. At first it was funny, but after a good half an hour it started to be really annoying for the girls and uncomfortable for men. The ideology of the place, including the artwork on the walls, interior design, free Internet, the music they play is cute and one might find it enough to go back.
(2)
Jen K.
I dont know, I just love this place! It has nice, high celings and is on a cute, centrally located corner in Salem and you can gaze out the windows at the beautifully lit trees and historic buildings/streets. Its very comfortable in here. There are mismatched couches, chairs, etc. Alot of people on laptops. They have board games you can play. Food is eceltic (sp?). Mostly salads and sandwiches but you can also get things like crepes, hummus and beer and cheese pairings. They have open mic nights, movie nights, lots of local talent. Great place to kick back with your friends, very laid back. Of course the star of the place and my favorite thing about it is the BEER! They have enormous chalkboards of all the beers and menus with descriptions of them. They are constantly changing the beers. I have found so many great, obscure beers this way. I am a beer snob so I really appreciate their variety. Just a nice place and Im glad they're in Salem
(4)
Stephanie D.
I first fell in love with Ommegang beer here. I love this place. Paninis are delicious, waitstaff is attentive and friendly but never annoying. Other people in the place are interesting and easy to talk to. I would feel very comfortable hanging out here by myself. I haven't been to the live music or here for dinner, but particularly enjoy Gulu during off-hours, like at 4 o'clock in the afternoon. (I shouldn't even be saying that for fear it would get more crowded at that time.) Highly recommend and am sorry the Lynn location closed.
(5)
Khunravin H.
Good place to go for lunch. Right in the center of Downtown Salem, right behind "Sabrina, the Witch" statue. For the few times that I've been there, the food, and service has been good. I've actually never been inside the business; rather be outside when weather permits. But yeah when in Salem MA, do try breakfast or lunch here.
(4)
Joe B.
UPDATE: Still a fan. I still love the food here and the beer selection is just awesome. I've been going here since the place opened and something that is very consistent is that the wait staff is notoriously slo'oooow. Even when it's not very busy. Sometime they'll completely forget about that round of drinks (just 2-3 drinks... not 20 or anything like that) you ordered 15min ago. Or you'll be given menus and then no follow up for decent amount of time. My favorite is ordering a beer, waiting and then watching the waitress remember... then run over to the bar to place the drink order. Happens a lot. One visit, it happened every single time I ordered a beer. I highly recommend sitting at the bar if you can. Your can order food there too. No service problem there. Other than that... great food, beer and atmosphere. A "must visit" place in Salem.
(4)
Anthony S.
They have some really cool crepes, both sweet and savory, but don't dare order one of if you're during their brunch hours - they suddenly are incapable of making something on their menu all other times. Bizarre. Wait staff are pretty airy and don't seem to understand what serving a customer means. There are one or two that get it, but more often than not we get a spaceshot. This is still one of the better menus out there and is a cool place overall. I think I'd have rated it lower if I didn't love the cool art vibe in the bathrooms and throughout the restaurant.
(3)
Justin P.
Woohoo, they got it together. Had a trippy DJ spinning some old-school hits as well as just plain old odd electronica, but it adds to the ambiance when you're drinking Absinthe or some Cedar flavored liqueur and eating a bohemian inspired fare. Glad to see they figured out how to hire young people that attend to their customers because with that food and drink selection plus the crazy looking artwork on the walls (in a good way) they can't lose! Back again as a regular, good to see it's being well-handled. Cheers from Boston!
(4)
Jodi E.
I'm convinced I'll be drinking iced soy mochas until my dying day. This place is now on my radar and when I'm in Salem it just might be my go to coffee stop! So tasty! I snagged a sip of my boyfriends cold brew, which was delicious! We'd never been inside and weren't sure how to order or where to pay but the guy who helped us was friendly & helpful! We took our drinks to go but the atkosphere seems laid back and a place I think I'd enjoy hanging out in longer. Definitely stop in here!
(4)
William S.
Best cappuccino ever, and great sandwiches in a relaxed atmosphere with incredibly pleasant staff. The Barcelona (a turkey sandwich) is my favorite and I tend to stick to favorites, so I can't comment on others but would willing to bet they are as good. An endless and interesting beer list, outdoor setting in warm weather, bagels on a Sunday morning: it all makes to living in Salem all the sweeter.
(5)
Katie M.
My gluten free wrap was half the size of the regular wraps and 50 cents more. Service was mediocre, not great. Very good selection of beers and other beverages including cider! Food was good, but felt ripped off on the gf option.
(3)
Robyn T.
If you're in the mood for junk food this may not be your place. However, in our eternal quest to treat our bodies better, this is such a great option. Although this place can sometimes be a little too earthy for me, everything I've had here is good. Plus they have a great adult beverage selection! The atmosphere is fun and funky and artistic. They have live music and open mic and everyone just sits where they feel, even if strangers are sharing tables. Most recently I ordered the roast beef and boursin wrap and although I felt it was tasty, it was a little small. I was actually still hungry when I left which is never a great sign. It doesn't really take away from the good experience but I probably won't order it again. This is a go-to place for a lot of people in Salem which makes it a regular spot for me. I always find something I know I'll like, and again, they have a great craft beer and cocktail selection.
(4)
Julie Z.
I'll start by saying this restaurant is in a great location and is one of the only late night food options I was able to find on the almighty yelp while visiting Salem. However, nothing really stood out about the food. Got a lackluster spinach and artichoke dip and kielbasa which was not like I'm used to getting at home. I had high hopes for my mac and cheese but when I sat down to pen this review, I had honestly forgotten what I'd ordered and really had to think about it. Nothing bad, nothing spectacular. 3 stars
(3)
Mark T.
Location: A very unique spot on downtown salem. Clean, and nicely set up, as if to hang out with friends but without an overly restaurant-y or bar-y feeling. There is also a creative personal touch from the owners that is pleasant but that I cannot accurately describe. However, the tables for two should have a bit more room, and it is hard to fit everything in combination with napkin/utensil holders. Service: It is polite, and friendly, however it can be very slow and inattentive. Although the restaurant was not busy, it took a while for the drinks (Cola and Iced Tea) to arrive, for our order to be taken and prepared. Halfway though my meal, I finished my tea, and the server asked if I would like a refill, I said yes. However, by the time it was brought to me I had already finished eating. I did not eat that fast either. If they had free refills this would not be an issue, but I ended up paying for a refill I barely touched. One final note is this, I asked if it would be possible to get more arugula salad on the side, rather than the server finding out and telling me it is a dollar, it was brought to my table with her stating it's only a dollar. The issue for me is that if I have to pay money, I have a right to decline before being charged. Saying no thanks after the salad has been brought to my table would feel kind of inappropriate. In the server's defense, I asked "is it possible to have more salad?", and not "How much would it cost to have more salad?" Food: I have no issue with the food, it is very good, has both unique and classic combinations, but it is not anything out of this world. The food is pleasant, and paninis are tasty, but again, by its nature it is nothing that could not be done at home with ingredient or a panini press. Oh, and them warming the Cap Cod chips adds a really nice touch. I have yet to try their crepes. Food does take a while, but their kitchen is the size of one in a really nice apartment. Suffice it is say tiny for an apartment. They are also overpriced. $10 of panini seems excessive, but then again, I am not aware of their costs.
(3)
Jessica F.
My boyfriend and I stopped in here for a coffee while traveling. So I can only speak for the coffee. I got a blended iced coffee and it was amazing. This place is eclectic and fun. I also have a Boston terrier so I loved all the doggie tribute artwork.
(5)
Anissa Z.
Hummus wraps, meatloaf, brunch and waffles. Everything was awesome. I had the orange and walnut salad with bacon. The meal was light and refreshing
(5)
Mike P.
First time here. Very cool very hip vibe in a European style cafe. Interesting rock music in the air. Sat up at the bar and ordered a Far From The Tree Cider which hit the spot. I had the Barcelona Panini for lunch. Loved the crunchy bread and the moist turkey. It was complimented well with the mustard and the cinnamon aftertaste of the apple butter. Crisp potato chips and small garnish field green and Roasted Red pepper salad. Had a Second cider read my book between a girl knitting and a guy on his laptop. A very nice lunch. I expect to become a regular. Kaitlyn was a good bartender...mixing an absinthe drink right in front of me and making me feel like all my choices were the absolute right ones.
(5)
Ian G.
Excellent iced coffee drinks, especially the frozen latte. Definitely a local spot. Offers board games and simple food items. Staff is very friendly and welcoming. I'm sure the evening crowd is very fun. This place is definitely worth a visit for any traveler!
(5)
A W.
I like this place a lot. I like the food. I like the atmosphere. I like the location. The only thing is that it's can be under staffed. 35 minutes for a sandwich makes me want to just go home and make one myself. They could use one extra waiter too. But I still like this place.
(4)
Katherine H.
I love this place. It's part of what makes me love Salem. The atmosphere, the people... But also the food. I have yet to go when there's live music but sandwiches, appetizers, dessert, coffee, brunch, some ginger ale type drink and everything I've tried there in my 4 visits was wonderful. I also love that they are family friendly and are in a great location.
(5)
Jesse E.
My wife worked here since they opened. She was the kitchen manger for many years. I have been plenty of times. The staff has always been great, and very down to earth. The food was really good! I recommend the roast beef and Boursin wrap. The crepes and the breakfast sandwiches are very good as well. Tons of beer and wine to choose from at the bar. Overall a great atmosphere, great food and awesome staff. Couldn't be happier.
(5)
Ian N.
A short while back I was rushing to get to work on time and had to skip breakfast. I work downtown, about 100ft from the Gulu, so I figured I'd swing in there after I get settled in at the office and grab a quick breffast sammich and a coffee. In, out, and back in the office in minutes. Done it dozens of times at other places in Salem, why would this be any different? Well, the answer to that is bored hipsters that don't give a sh*t about their jobs. My coffee was ready to roll in less than two minutes. The place was pretty empty, so I picked a good time. No complaints about the barista service. That guy was awesome and the coffee was excellent. HOWEVER, the kitchen was at a crawl. Like a 'fallen and I can't get up' geriatric 80-year old woman crawl. That's fine if you're an 80-year old woman who broke her hip slipping in the tub. If you're a 20-something hipster working in a kitchen of a busy (it wasn't at the time) downtown restaurant, this is not acceptable. I ordered a bacon, egg and cheese on crossaint. The following transpired over the next 20+ minutes as I waited... Cook slowly walked across the kitchen to get a plate Cook slowly walked back to same place to get a knife Cook slowly realized knife was dirty Cook slowly walked back to wash it Cook took 2 minutes to hem, haw, and make exasperated faces about how hard her life is in that kitchen Cook slowly started cooking the egg Cook slowly started cooking the bacon Cook slowly paced back and forth again and looked annoyed about having to do work Owner sat at his table, right next to where I was standing, and looked disinterested in the speed of his staff Barista noticed my annoyed look and kindly inquired about the delivery of my sammich Cook gave barista a dirty look and grumbled that it would be ready soon Barista kindly let me know that it was on its way Time passes... Seasons change... My beard grows to a ZZ Top level of respect... My coffee is long gone... My sandwich arrives. And this is par for the course. I think the Gulu offers a lot of great things - good food, a tremendous revolving beer selection, great coffee, relaxing atmosphere. The concept is great. However, whenever I go there the service is terrible and slow (particularly the wait staff and kitchen)...a trend that carries over to their sister pizzeria next door (another review for another time). While I'm sure my review won't change anything, I hope someone in charge takes notice and hires some decent help, rather than people that look cool. We already get enough of this at Snark Kitchen. There are other establishments around where you can be a funky place, but also knock customer service out of the park.
(2)
Harry B.
Food at Gulu is pretty meh. Kind of overpriced for what you get, and nothing stands out as amazing... but they have a kickass beer list. 20ish beers on tap and they're almost always all great. They've got all sorts of crazy stuff on those taps and they're rotating them constantly. Skip the food and grab a drink when there's some live music playing here.
(4)
Noha A.
I love love gulu, my university is nearby so I'm always there whenever I get the chance to go. The atmosphere is just as great as the service. They always have great bands playing to the set the mood. I always get a green tea with a Barcelona, which is the best sandwich!!! I recommend this place to all my friends and they always end up loving it just as much as I do!
(5)
Arthur R.
We came here on the recommendation from another local business and the yelp reviews and we were not disappointed. I had the chicken cordon blue crepe (the Dijon mustard is spicy) and my wife had the portobello crepe. Excellent! We came for lunch so it was quiet and great for conversation.
(4)
Christine H.
I love their drink selection, most especially the liqueurs and wines. Their food portions are somewhat small but everything I have had there, like the cheese plates and the crepes from savory to sweet, have been made with care and good ingredients. By the way, their "adult" coffees/ciders/chais are VERY good. An apple cider with amaretto should be on their menu all year round, and a Bailey's Chai is like heaven in a cup.
(5)
Alex T.
Great place. Whether hanging out or on a mission for a meal this venue has it. A variety of bottled beer, combined with a home cooked cafe with an espresso bar. I ordered the Nice (Neese) Sandwich and took the recommendation for the plum jam spread. Excellent sandwich served on a home baked toasted bread, layered with apples, brie, and honey ham. Sweet and savory. Great place parked right in the midst of a perfect people watching spot in the town square. You must Try Try Gulu Gulu!!
(4)
Tasha L.
Have been here more than 10 times and never getting tired of their foods! Foods are heavenly delicious!
(5)
Keira L.
I've been going to Gulu for about 5 years. My go-to is an Iced Andes and Essjay Wrap on wheat. I'm also a fan of the meat &cheese coalition. Sweet crepes (banana strawberry nutella) and the berry nice are VERY good. I bring friends here whenever I can - it's great for vegetarians. Very cool vibe whenever you go in. The morning you'll usually find people working on their laptops. Nighttime is great for live music on weekends and wednesday (open mic). A great place in downtown Salem. Staff is consistently great. My one complaint is the portion size - it's not always consistent and is sometimes very disappointing.
(4)
Valerie R.
Absolutely in LOVE with this place. It reminds me of some of the down to earth cafes I used to visit in San Francisco. Great atmosphere, low lull of friendly chatter, gluten free food options, and really pleasant staff. They allow dogs to eat with owners out on the patio, and they have an area for live entertainment, open mic, etc. Choose a comfy leather chair or sit at the bar to eat. The food is a mix of soups, salads, paninis, and desserts. I got the Istanbul panini with subbed gluten free wrap. It had turkey, tomato, fresh mozzarella, and pesto and came warm and toasty. Really happy with our choice to visit here! Wish there was something like it closer to home.
(5)
Maddie B.
The service is awesome! The employees are nice, "hipster", unique in their own way, and very genuine. The atmosphere is really nice if you're into a really relaxed vibe. It's more for those who like to relax and a "hipster" scene. The scenery is very peaceful. I have to admit the food is a 3.5 out of a 5 but the atmosphere and the employee makes up for it. I recommend the russel stover coffee for rainy days, s'mores crepes (warning: the center has a lot of nutella), and the barcelona panini. :)
(5)
Stephanie M.
I really, truly, absolutely love this place. I loved it when I lived in Salem, and I love it even more now that I live a ways away and have to drive up to Salem just to experience it. My girlfriend and I, during warmer weather and at the very beginning, or very far past October's end, make it a point to come up here at least once a month. We love to sit outside and people watch, or find a corner inside to sulk in for a couple of hours. Upon one trip here, my girlfriend and I met up with my best friend and after chatting for a while we stepped off the patio to have a cigarette. The doorman tried to warn us that we needed to stay close by due to capacity issues but we were clueless. We had to wait in line to get back onto the patio, our drinks calling to us from 5 feet away but we bantered with the doorman and weren't assholes about it like some other patrons. It's not their fault they have a fire code, and I've had some of my favorite places shut down for over occupancy. I generally only order the cheese plate.. because.. cheese. Need I say anymore? Ok.. I will. They have a mustard ale cheese that I have dreams about. The wait staff have always been incredibly friendly with us, but I'm one of those people that actually treats waitstaff with respect and am friendly right back at them. You get what you put out in this world. The beer selection is quite good, and they have my two favorite kinds of wine. Red.. and white. I know, I'm a classy girl that's hard to please. Since we generally sit outside we haven't experienced the live band action, but I could see the appeal for those that like that sort of thing. Overall? It's a really great place to have a good meal, with a lot of different options, a wide variety beer menu, and staff that isn't going to try to get you in and out.
(5)
John D.
Well on my second visit this place impressed me. I had the best lunch and cocktail I've ever had here. I ordered the Munich sandwich and Gary Bussi cocktail they were both amazing. I'd love to take a date here sometime.
(4)
Mallory T.
I live right on Washington Street in Salem. We have been here numerous times (perhaps each time expecting the food quality to change for the better?) and each time we leave wondering why this place is so popular. Yes, it has a "hipster" vibe, decent service, cheap prices. But the food itself Is so sub-par! Every time we get breakfast, the eggs are scorched and over cooked, the "Belgian waffle" is flat and sad looking, and the crepes are dry. Chicken salad wrap I ordered was filled with rubbery looking chicken and TONS of raw onion. I love raw onion but this was a little ridiculous. Not impressed, will probably not go again.
(2)
D D.
Sad to say, they have a horrible breakfast. Nothing gluten free. They ran out of muffins. The creps are made on same skillet and my husband and daughter said their bagels were a weird horrible taste. I ordered eggs and beacon.... The eggs were FAKE!! fake eggs, really??!! why!!! Bty the coffe was either old or burnt. The oj was good...... I wanted it to be 4 stars.
(1)
Corey L.
Stopped in on a Thursday night with a group of friends before a movie. Place has definite character. While we were there, they were playing Black Sabbath songs, with local art on the walls. We were told to grab a table, which we did. No server for at least the first 10 minutes. As we were waiting for a movie, this was annoying. The dude wandering around cleaning tables and doing random things ended up being our server - I found this out by asking him if we had a server. Which he claimed to be. I started with a hot toddy - called an oooooooohh something. It was warm with brandy, cider, stuff in it - cinnamon stick and I think cloves - that I also ate. It wasn't bad - my girlfriend really liked it. I woulda liked a bit more flavor to it. My girlfriend and I shared a cranberry salad, which was good - decent size and good mixture of ingredients, especially if you like cheese. It was deluged in cheese. My girlfriend got a strawberry smoothie with pineapple vodka. It was fine - tasted like good amount of liquor. No milk or ice cream - just strawberries and ice. I got the Munich sandwich, which came with a small salad and chips. The chips were kettle chips and the salad was nice, with a tasty dressing. The sandwich itself was grilled with rare beef and some Dijon mustard that had a horseradishy spice to it. Generally it was blander than I expected. I woulda liked more Dijon mustard in it - and more evenly distributed. We then finished up with a S'mores crepe. I was SUPER excited - I love S'mores (boy scout growing up) and am always disappointed by s'mores flavored stuff as it never tastes like s'mores - you need the melty marshmallows and chocolate. So this came melty and I was super excited. When it came, I quickly became very disappointed. It was a very well done crepe (read: too crispy and dry) with pieces of graham cracker inside and chocolate. There were also chocolate chips on top and whipped cream along the edge. No marshmallows. And too little chocolate in general. This coulda been really good and it really just wasn't. I really want to like this place - I go in trying to like it, but both the service and food keep stopping me. I'll likely try again and hopefully it will be better.
(3)
Amanda J.
Came here with friends on a holiday weekend. The place was quite busy and so there was a wait. Upon entering I really loved the atmosphere in the place. But since they were so busy the service was incredibly slow. It took at least 15 minutes to get our drinks. But they did have a great selection of their drink menu. A couple of us had build your own crepes and they were so delicious! There are so many fillings to choose from, both sweet and savory. I really felt like they offered every filling I could possibly want. All sorts of cheeses, vegetables, meats, and dressings for the savory selections. I would definitely come back here, but perhaps when it was a little less crowded! I think our waitress in particular just seemed a bit clueless.
(4)
Jeanette W.
Four stars for their beer selection. I wasn't impressed with the food. There isn't a wide range of food options if you aren't there for breakfast. I only went twice at night to listen to music. This spot is definitely best for breakfast or lunch. Their vegetable soup was more like blended veggies, very chunky and not very soup like, very thick.
(4)
Nancy F.
Very good! We tried the patsy, terrific! The Eden. A crepe with fruit, very tasty. But I should have chosen something more savory. The oinkers was awesome. It passed the Chuckie review. He thought it was perfect. Great breakfast!!!! Cary was awesome and fun.
(4)
Stacey S.
this place is the Tops! love the atmosphere and the food. great service and love the menu options. the soups are to die for
(5)
Lisa M.
Very healthy options and we need more of that around here. The atmosphere is very hip and cool! Great background music, and not too loud! Most people say they return cause is one of good feeling kind of places!
(5)
Dave M.
the place was pretty decent but not particularly anything special IMO. we got a brieberry crepe ($8) and the Barcelona panini ($9.25). both were good. the place is pretty big and well maintained. they provide a unique environment in a good way. our waitress never gave me a water refill so i had to ask another worker for that. service wasn't too great. i would recommend this place.
(3)
Katie O.
Went there on an open mic night and ordered the Bagel w/ Lox. Absolutely delicious, and they didn't skimp on anything. I did have to order it from the bar in order to get service, but I kinda figured that would be the case based on other reviews. Food came out quickly, and the beer selection was great! Neat little vibe, too.
(3)
Kylie D.
Great little spot in a lovely part of Salem. Great for hipster families with kids (I say that with love!), singles, whomever. Service was excellent! Our server brought a sliced banana for my friend's daughter on a rustic-looking cutting board instead of just throwing it in a bowl. Classy! My crepe was good and since I don't eat a lot of crepes, I can only say that I enjoyed it and that all the ingredients were fresh and yummy. Overall a great place, especially on a nice day - outside seating near the square is charming.
(4)
Franklin M.
Great service from our waiter, he couldn't be more helpful. We ordered an iced mocha and it was very good, it had the perfect flavor and not over sweetened. My teen daughter ordered a few items and devoured them all, she is picky so that is a good sign that the food is good.
(5)
Carrie H.
I am hooked! Spent the weekend before Halloween up in Salem and this place is in walking distance from our hotel. We ate breakfast, lunch, dinner and in-betweens there. I HEART THIS PLACE!!! Cappuccino drinkers you will bask in its wonderfulness!!! It's big, it's delightful and I could not stop drinking them. Latte's just as good. We loved the sandwiches, the salads, the crepes with bananas and nutella were out of this world. We were there on the busiest week of the year and the service was great. I even hunted down the owner and told him how much I loved this place. Not sure what previous reviews are talking about "hipsters" I'm a 57 year old woman and I don't give a ___ who I'm eating "around" If the food is good and the price is good and the location is good. Stop your whining!!
(5)
Vickie W.
Really awesome place! Waitstaff is attentive and helpful! Fannnntastic beer selection, standard fare annnd imports, something for everyone here!
(4)
Bradley L.
Visited Salem last night and stopped into Gulu Gulu in search of some slightly "modern" cafe fare. Seeing how it looked like a hip place, crawling with tatted folks with septums, I assumed Gulu Gulu would at least have an inventive menu to attract pretentious foodies. Upon first inspection of the menu I was hugely dissapointed. My only choices for a filling meal were crepes and sandwiches. Oh well, it's my fault for assuming they would at least have burgers or something. As I already ordered a beer I figured I would just stay and try out some of their food. I ordered the "soup of the day" which was, of course, clam chowder. It arrived in a small bowl, resting upon a bed of mixed greens on an extra large plate... why was my bowl of soup on a bed of mixed greens? Super cheesy. To get back to the soup itself... It was definitely Blount soup from a bag. Oh well. I also tried their take on a charcuterie plate. I got the French boursin cheese, the cranberry wensleydale and "their" famous Ghost pepper salami. The plate arrived with a ramekin of the boursin, haggardly sliced pieces of salami and the wensleydale resting on a bed of lettuce. Pointless plate garnish again..Oh well.. The plate was also served with the same bread that came with my blount clam chowder. I put their in quotations because most people dont realize they get their meat and cheese from some major distributor like Sam Wainer or US Foods. Lastly i tried the "Munich" panini. Rare roast beef, swiss cheese, dijon and dill pickle. When it arrived to the table i noticed that the bread my sandwich was on was the same bread from the soup and the cheese plate... do they literally only carry this one loaf of white bread? The sandwich itself was boring, had no flavor and my dill pickle was just those flimsy pickle chips you'd get on a whopper. Pros: Cozy atmosphere and the beer list is actually very good. I had the Founders Dark Penance black IPA. An ample serving for only 5 bucks. Go for the bar, stay away from the food.
(2)
Daniel H.
Ordered a meal and waited 20 minutes before being told wasn't available. Served cold coffee too
(1)
Jenna P.
Gah..I love this place. The Gulu has it all--delicious food of all sorts, scrumptious crepes and treats, tons of beer selections, and a spectacular bean. Cannot forget about the comfy environment and the visually appealing decor. If you hit it right, you can also enjoy some live local music which is almost always surprisingly awesome! A must visit when you're in Salem!
(5)
Janice R.
Wow!! Excellent breakfast!! Fresh delicious eggs in wonderful croissant, and banana bread. Superb coffee!! Give me another. Wait service so nice!!! Thank you to Matt!! With all our demands and questions since we are new customers today. lol We sat by the speaker, but then my husband asked for the music to be turned down! and they turned it down, thank you! I/we shall be back!! and soon!!
(5)
Stephanie S.
Sad to say I didn't care much for this place. I ordered the chicken Caesar wrap. It had too many croutons and was really salty. The lobster bisque soup was good though. My friend didn't love her dish either. It was the brunch mushroom burger. The atmosphere is cool and the service was good.
(3)
Michael M.
Though I've been a regular for years now, it is with recent frustration that I've finally succumbed to writing this less than stellar review. In fact I feel it is my obligation to do so, in hopes that something may give, and standards may change. The Gulu Gulu has always provided a great menu, a vast beer selection, and a perfect atmosphere. This rings true especially for local artists within the community. It's perfect to inhabit on any given day no matter the season. And though the employees are enjoyable in their own right, I find the establishments overall service level lackluster at best. With few exceptions it never seems as though any employee, no matter how seasoned a veteran, possesses a sense of urgency when serving the customer. This a trait I know first hand all too well, and have forgiven one too many times. Twice this week staff have failed in providing me with what I consider a proper level of service and attention. The first failure took place while dining at the bar for lunch. I was only one of two patrons inhabiting the bar. And yet It took a solid 25 mins to order lunch. Upon completion of my meal both bartenders neglected to check in with me. Chatting away, careless and fancy free they waltzed back and forth in front of me several times. All the while awaiting an opportunity to ask for my bill. Something that never presented itself. A an equally kind and diligent floor waitress whose name was Natalie eventually noticed something wrong. It was she that ended up presenting me with my bill without me even having to ask. Irritated but only slightly I let it slide and left to resume my day. But it was last evening when I called to place a take out order - was placed on hold, all the while driving from the N. Shore Mall to the YMCA (16 mins in traffic) where I parked my car, exited, and walked into the restaurant STILL ON HOLD awaiting my order to be had that iced this already bitter cake. Knowing the bar staff personally seemed to warrant a sigh of relief on their part. Jovially playing it off as a mistake, they verbalized their relief when learning it was ONLY me. Am I not a customer? Despite how often I frequent the establishment, or how well you know me as a person, do I not deserve the same service and respect that I'd get elsewhere? Does the Gulu Gulu feel invincible or are they just that apathetic about how their customers feel? Whatever their mentality I've chosen to bring my business elsewhere. Perhaps I'll enjoy my coffee from a local bakery and my lunch from the newly established Ugly Mug.
(2)
CJ B.
All the right moves: -Welcomes dogs -Wait staff with funky outfits -Lots of non natural hair colors in the kitchen -Guy in motorcycle jacket at the bar writing emails -Mismatched tables and chairs -Pink Floyd on the sound system BUT unfortunately the food is pretty pedestrian. Even though they had interesting names, our sandwiches were corporate cold cuts on uninspired bread with a very small salad and a few chips. And the advertised Lentil Soup turned out to be beef barley!
(3)
Jenn S.
Just stopped by for a cup of coffee so this will be short but I wanted to comment on how nice the staff was. We walked up to the little to-go counter on the left and ordered coffee and hot tea. Tasted great and loved the service!
(4)
William D.
You refused to make a spinwich on a Sunday despite all the ingredients for it being on the menu in other items and the means to prepare it being available. Odd for an otherwise welcoming and pleasant place. This was our last day on the north shore and we went out of our way to come back here.
(4)
Kevin D.
The wife and I spend a bunch of time in Salem and their is no question in either of our minds that Gulu Gulu is the best spot in town. Awesome beer list, great food, great vibe, dog friendly, nice outdoor seating, good music and entertainment, and a great vibe (did I already say that?). Also, don't miss the breakfast. Awesome breakfast sandwiches (especially the one with the ghost pepper salami). We love them so much we had them cater the breakfast after our wedding (bagels, muffins, coffee, juices) and they were great.
(5)
Chris L.
I hate yelp. I hate everything about it because on estimate I'd say about 85% of the people who write bad reviews should not be saying anything at all. If someone has something to say about something that went horribly wrong, let a manager know while you're there so they can fix it, rather than going home all pissed off and tearing the place apart. That being said, i'm no expert, but i know the industry, and this place is awesome. Everything about it is great. Respect for trying to divert from the norm and have people experiment with different foods and flavors and encouraging it. It is a great place to sit and enjoy the day and eat some great food. This place is what a caffe is all about. The prices are also extremely resonable for the high quality food they put out. Again, boo too all who say the service is bad or whatever. This isn't a "get em in get em out" kinda place, and the service reflects that perfectly. If you're looking for that, go to McDonalds.
(5)
Natalie C.
Confused as to why this place is so highly rated by everyone. The food was decent but plain. The menu doesn't boast anything new or exciting. I got the vegetarian breakfast sandwich and it was greasy and average. The service was truly terrible. It took 20 minutes to get a cup of house blend coffee and I never the cup of water I asked for. I wouldn't recommend this place.
(2)
Juanita D.
This is the cutest little coffee/creperie/sandwich shop in alllll of Salem! While traveling around the Boston area we made a quick day trip to Salem, MA. My friend decided to take me to this local spot that she said was too cute to be true. Great little spot to hang out with your friends or talk to some interesting people. Woodsy kinda feel inside, board games, very open area in little shopping area of town & close to the Salem Witch Museum. Awesome Crepes & the hot chocolate is tooooo die for! You MUST try this place otu!
(5)
Cheri S.
A fun beatnik type of cafe with a good variety of food for all. Try the mack 'n cheese - it's definitely worth it. Good selection of house cocktails and beer on tap. We enjoyed a late night meal, so it was pretty dark (as in not much light) and there was musical entertainment which varies nightly. The servers were quirky, but attentive attentive.
(4)
Epi I.
Had wine and appetizers. Wine was fine. Had their bruschetta. Sadly to say, the bread was not toasted and on the bread was only canned tomato and a couple of pieces of basil w/a little bit of olive oil. We should've returned it but we thought we'd just enjoy the afternoon and our wine. Then, there was a little group sitting next to us. They kept having someone come over and check on them while we sat there without anyone asking us if the bruschetta was ok or if we wanted another drink. I ended up flagging one of the servers to ask for water. I gave them the dirty look for ignoring us. Then I had to walk inside the cafe to get a server to bring us our check. TERRIBLE SERVICE HERE. MAYBE IT'S COMMON HERE IN SALEM TO GIVE BAD SERVICE TO VISITORS. I wish Yelp allowed minus stars. I'd give Gulu Gulu Cafe MINUS 5! I'll never visit this cafe again.
(1)
Mark L.
I have been here a number of times for drinks. It is always a pleasant atmosphere with a very good selection of beer. This is the first time I have been for breakfast. The coffee is good. The kitchen is a bit slow but the waitstaff is attentive and the food is well worth the wait.
(4)
Derek W.
This review is for breakfast. Not really impressed. Service was arduously slow. I ordered the traditional crepe with ham. It was wicked dry, without much flavor at all. Coffee was acceptable. The inside of this place is pretty hipster looking and funky.
(3)
Gypsy M.
On my most recent visit I was horrified to see if they had dressed up the iconic bulldog painting on the window in what seemed to be a mockery of Native American cultural costume. When I told the worker that as a Native American customer I felt alienated and that it was racist I was met with sarcasm and scorn. I heard that eventually they removed it due to increased pressure and complaints, but I don't want to dine in a place where the atmosphere is one of racism.
(1)
Mikhail M.
Such a cute place! I loved the quirky style of this authentically Boston themed cafe. Spacious and bright, eating brunch at Gulu Gulu feels like a Sunday morning with friends and faming. The veggie crepe was delicious and I can also recommended the Berry and Nice if you are looking for something sweet.
(5)
Sarah M.
Love the atmosphere and the beer selection. The salmon/lettuce wraps are delicious, as are the crepes. (I recommend the Hungarian one with the plum jam). The service can be a bit slow -- that's the main thing I'd change.
(4)
Tulan K.
This is the best place to have some good beer. The cheese and meat plates are delicious. I specially loved their Ghost pepper , cilantro and tequila infused salami. It is a loud place with bands playing there and also sort of sit yourself place. Sandwiches were ok since the bread was too hard and actually hurt when you bite in but i think this place is def worth it for its cheese and meats.
(5)
Lil M.
I'd say 3.5 stars. Its in a great spot in Salem. The waiters are busy, and there was a long wait for food and drinks and the check. So, needeless extra time spent at the Gulu Gulu, which I would name sort of a hipster bistro. The meat & cheese plate was great. The coffee was so-so and the crepes were nothing to write home about.
(3)
Amy H.
Saturday night in Salem during October is no joke. Every restaurant was packed, the streets were packed, and the one place that could seat us didn't appear to have any waitstaff working. We put our name in at Gulu Gulu, because a 30-min wait was the best yet, and went to the bar to have drinks while we waited. Luckily we found seats at the bar, so we just sat there and ordered food. Everything was delicious! Crepes, wraps, and sandwiches were super fresh and tasty, and since we were sitting at the bar, we could watch the cooks work. The beer selection is fantastic (Southern Tier Pumpkin ftw), and the bartenders were helpful with suggestions. A great, cozy, funky local spot that I will definitely visit again. My friends who stayed in Salem went back the next morning for breakfast. :)
(5)
Katelyn B.
Hipster haven. I used to adore this place. It's a great place to go and spend some time playing games, hanging out with friends, listening to local music, and grabbing a drink. I really loved this place when their open mic nights first started. In my opinion, it's gone down hill. The food is pretty good, but I always went for the deserts! They've changed that portion of the menu so many times in the past few years, all my favorites are gone. And now it's weird. Good luck trying to get a table when there is live entertainment or during tourist season. (Anytime.) Open Mic Night...forget it. Jeff and Brian are great hosts! However the talent pool has changed. It's all old hipsters playing their pan flutes and singing cover songs. There seem to be a lot of inside jokes and "Gulu celebrities" that are made a big deal about but not everyone knows/understands. I miss the old days Gulu...I really do.
(3)
Clarke B.
We live out of the area, but every time we are in Salem, we come here. It's, fan friggan tastic!!!!
(5)
Lisa C.
One of my favs in Salem. I haven't tried all the food on the menu (b/c I don't eat a lot of things) but I love what I do get and my friends have always been happy with their selections. Great coffee. Staff are always friendly. I haven't had any of the frustrations that some other reviewers have had and I'm there pretty often, mostly during the day time.
(4)
chris b.
Great vibe to this place. Plenty of seating and ample bar space if you come in "solo" or with just a few friends. Their "Mind Sweeper" caffeinated beverage does the job nicely if you need a pick-me-up. I had a Smoked Turkey, Bacon, and Avocado wrap that was prepared just the way I like it. If you join their "Gulu Gulu" club (not sure how easy that is to get into) you get to drink your beer from an elaborate chalice.
(5)
Joeli G.
If you can take eating around a plethora of Hipsters without gagging, then you could come here and get a sandwich and a beer. It's pricy for what it is and the waitstaff hipsters are....hipsters....so it's hit or miss on service. Food is fresh though and beer is draft. Coffee isn't too bad either and they have a tea menu (of course! #%*+ hipsters). I despise that people take up entire tables to click away on their computer machines while they drink an entire pot of tea themselves; but that's just me. Not my favorite place or one I frequent as a local but good for a passer by that wants to soak up a piece of Salem's diverse scene and grab a bite to eat. Please don't feed the hipsters.
I thought the entertainment was great first time going there I noticed it gets pretty crowded. You go up to the bar to order your food, the staff was diligent and polite ,though I only got a coffee and a parfait I thought the food was great Ive had many parfaits but theres was the best! I Plan to go back and try something else and see more great performances, great vibes.
Nice spot in town. Good food, somewhat pretentious, although it appears trendy for young hipsters. Service was good, but we noticed that the manager was sitting at the counter behind us, so that may have played a role in the increased work production of staff. Nice selection of beer and coffee beverages, and they have love music frequently. Good tourist spot if your not in a rush.
(3)
Kimberly K.
I give it 4 for a great vibe, being totalllly unique and having great craft brews. Their food is not great, but I was kind of ok with that. The cheese board was good. But everything else was just kinda "meh" Service was good. I will come back late sometime to check out the live band scene. Perhaps that'll really warrant my 4 stars.
(4)
Alex K.
Gulu Gulu gets a five-star review relative to the rest of the North Shore. Having moved from the West Coast, this is exactly the kind of place I miss having: Where one of us can have a cup of coffee and the other a glass of wine, where I can get some work done or shut the laptop and enjoy a slow conversation. The coffee is good, the food is not bad, the vibe is great.
(5)
K H.
Love it here! Great coffee & conversation place. Nice lunch and snacks! of course, Amazing coffee
(4)
Gina Marie B.
This is exactly the kind of place I was looking to visit when I went to Salem. It is as artsy as it gets. Live music, cute waiters with tattoos, art on the walls, french food, etc. A truly fun place in the middle of town that reminded me a lot of cafes in the artist colony areas of the village and Williamsburg Brooklyn. However this place was a tad bigger then those. The most interesting thing about the set up here was that it was half cafe and half bar. Something I actually do not see too much of in the artist colonies. You could come here at night for just a drink, or just for desert, or just for a sandwich, etc. I could see it was a lot of places home away from home. It has a relaxed atmosphere. You walk in and you seat yourself. It can get very busy so do not alway expect to find a seat! But a waiter will come up to you shortly when you do. The menu is a small cafe menu. They are trying to re-create what you would see in a lot of French cafes. So if you are dying for a menu with a thousand options, and foods such as big juicy stakes and pork chops, then do not come here for dinner. If you are a crepe, cheese, panini, and a yummy dessert drink lover then come here. I got a drink that literally tasted like strong alcoholic chocolate syrup! YUMMY! I got a cheese plate. Cheese plate in general are expensive but this place was worth the money, and the quality. Most NYC places I go to that have cheese plates offer you the tinniest little crumb of cheese. This place gave you a huge slab of cheese and an entire huge bowl of bread to go along with it. I could not believe the size, I ended up taking a lot home. It was very good! My boyfriend and I then shared the banana and nutella crepe that they had. It was very very good. I am not a huge crepe person to begin with, but could tell this was a good crepe. Service was fast and very friendly, everyone seemed to be having a great time. I will be coming back here next time I visit Salem!
(5)
Chrissy H.
This is my home away from home. I should probably pay them rent. Free wi-fi, good music, coffee, tea, bagels, crepes and art work make this a perfect place to get off campus (this means you Salem State!) and get some work done. Between 9:30 and 10:30, it's nice and quiet. 11:30-2 the lunch crowd comes in and there's some bustle, but nothing over the top. Grab a snack! Waffles, oatmeal or a bagel in the morning. Wraps, salads, meat and cheese plates for lunch or dinner. And don't forget the crepes! Coffee, tea -even refreshing iced tea- my favorite and a rarity in New England in the winter! For those of you not giving your liver a rest, get a beer flight! It's cheap and the best way to find a new favorite craft beer! If you see a girl in bangs with her head buried in a book, come say hi, I could use a distraction from schoolwork!
(5)
Kate D.
My opinion has changed and this has now become one of my favorite spots in Salem. Food, beer, service and atmosphere is great. Love the hipster vibe to it. I would highly recommend any of their paninis - delish! Love Gulu Gulu!
(5)
Sona T.
Dropped in Sunday morning for breakfast. We were really looking forward to coming here for breakfast due to its presence and the reviews. We sat ourselves, which I think is a strange policy so people coming in had to make their own system. We sat down and ordered regular coffee (bitter and strong) and ordered two breakfast sandwiches and a waffle. We were waiting for 45 minutes! We told the waitstaff that we've been waiting so long and got a lackluster apology. It seemed they were making food for the larger groups first. We got so fed up, that we voided our food (we were still 6-8 tickets away from our food being cooked!) and went somewhere else to have lunch. Came for breakfast, waited long enough for lunch. Also, the waitress was rude when we voided our food; I have not had one pleasant encounter with the staff here. They seem to be running around all the time but they're not accomplishing anything. I was really looking forward to a nice experience.
(1)
Liliya M.
This place is my go to spot when visiting Salem. The servers are always friendly, the seating is perfect (couches for coffee, high stools for drinks, tables for meals), and they have a sweet menu with pretty reasonable pricing. * Tip: Though their crepes are super tasty, I suggest going with a sandwich if you are looking for something more filling. *
(4)
Narcissus A.
I tried so hard to like this place but it's just not happening.... I went there 4 times total and to be honest if rather sit by the lobster shanty than this place Service is constantly slow and kind of irresponsible. I waited for my server for over 30 minutes twice and they werent even that busy. The crowd is a veey weird mixture of people and the place just gives me a weird vibe overall. I think it's the service. Waiters look constantly bored and kind of out of place and sync with their surroundings. Sorry Gulu Gulu.... I tried... maybe it's just not for me :)
(2)
Chris B.
My girlfriend and I just stopped in while visiting Salem for the weekend. I got the tbgt wrap and it was a knockout. Great food, super quick wait, awesome music, and right across the street from the fair! Definitely will come back!
(5)
Joe M.
Annie you rock!!!!! Definitely a must stop when your in Salem, mass. The ambience is funky. Lots of painting of dogs and superhero action figures. I sat on the couch and had a 360 view of the entire place. For starters the Kopanisti and Utopenee is a light appetizer. Enjoy.
(5)
Iris B.
great helpful friendly staff, good food selections, good music, cool atmosphere.. what's not to like? I came in for lunch on a recent visit to Salem (which is a cool city btw) and what I ordered was really yummy plus they have good options for veggie heads out there :)
(4)
Paulina P.
This is a quaint and whimsical pace with good food and great drinks. Perfect rest stop while exploring the city.
(4)
Kelly R.
I have been stalking the Gulu Gulu for the better part of the last year and finally found an opportunity to try them out. My husband has been a law student the last 3 years and finding time to go out and relax doesn't happen often. There is a quote/descriptive on their menu that says "The Gulu Gulu Cafe is a bohemian outpost..." And I couldn't have said it any better myself. This gem of an outpost was a wonderful escape from the ordinary and a light in our day! Warm and cozy with an air of relaxation and ambiance, we made our way to the bar. There we were warmly greeted and handed menus while we took in the bountiful bar selection. A nice variety of beers, both local, micro, and international (esp. Czech & Belgian). The menu was eclectic, generous, and delicious. We settled on sharing their Barcelona Panini (smoked turkey & Manchego cheese) which was well portioned with a small green salad and Cape Cod chips. It hit the spot! We paired the sandwich with a beer, myself a stout, himself a Trappist ale. To top off our impromptu lunch we were delighted to see that they offered French Press, so we indulged. Perfect spot to relax and unwind while treating yourself to a great atmosphere with delicious food! The Gulu was wonderfully creative and there were folks of all ages enjoying themselves. Truly an enclave worthy of escape. We look forward to escaping there again soon!
(4)
Sabrina S.
LOVE GULU'S such a unique hotspot to check out when you go to salem! Thank god I live 10 minutes away from gulu's, I introduce all my friends to this place and play board games and eat good snacks! The Crepes are to DIE for, literally so perfect! I can't forget to mention that the service there is great!
(4)
Deborah G.
great little spot!
(4)
Danie R.
Beer selection, cheese plate, done. Everything else kind of sucks and is disappointing, especially if you're vegetarian. I've gotten crepes and they were cold on the inside. They were supposed to be hot and melty. Negative. I've gotten sandwiches. So boring that it's like, what's the point? Seriously, stick with their drinks. Coffee, tea, beer, all great here. Cheese plate? Do it! They can't mess that up! But don't get the regular cheddar. Meh. Always the red dragon. Always the marinated brie. Don't worry about it. Just stick with this stuff and you'll like this place. Also, don't come here in October. It'll be packed and you'll take 5 years to get a table and another 5 more to get your food.
(3)
Sarah F.
Gluten-free crepes, gluten-free wraps, and gluten-free PIES!!!!! Delicious food, relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff, and a few comfy couches for patrons make this a surprisingly kid-friendly place. There is of course "regular" food for people without gluten intolerance.
(4)
Lynda L.
Amazing iced coffee!!! Cold-brewed is the way to go!!! Love it Love it! I also highly recommend the S'Mores Crepe, so decadent and yummy. Sandwiches are deeeeelish too!
(5)
Mara S.
This is a nice, casual place for some brunch or lunch. We stopped in around 1 on a Sunday and it was busy, but the wait was only a few minutes. Our food was good - I got a savory crepe, highly recommended, and everyone else got paninis which they seemed to enjoy. I wasn't expecting a crepe to be especially filling, but it was definitely a full meal. Service was a touch slow, but I wouldn't call that the wait staff's fault, it was busy.
(4)
Elizabeth R.
4 Stars for the beer selection and live music. I'm here frequently and have mixed feelings -on one hand, the atmosphere is great... very relaxed. On the other hand, the atmosphere is really relaxed. Nope, not a misprint. While the hip cafe vibe works, it also works against this place. Seating is "take what you can get". On weekends, or nights when there is live music, regulars come early and stay for the duration, meaning the establishment and servers are missing out on revenue from the tables that they could be turning over, were they not occupied. Service is also hit or miss. Waiting an hour for breakfast in Salem is par for the course in October, but not so much in midwinter. And don't even think about playing one of the games in the cabinet... Last time we attempted their Scrabble, we had to cannibalize tiles from the several sets on hand. But Gulu-Gulu, I just can't hate you. You mean well. And there is nowhere else in town you can watch a guy in full Halloween getup rock out to a full house in July, or where my boyfriend can drunkenly buy ironic start trek paintings (swearing all the while we're geeks, not hipsters). And they deserve credit for that. Plus, the beer.
(4)
Mike R.
Beer Cheese Soup, wow!!! Awesome beer list too! Love this quirky little place that is an escape from the witchiness enveloping most of Salem!
(5)
nick c.
It's a great place! Good food, friendly people, comfortable atmosphere. I'm a regular for a reason. When I go out, I think about going other places, but most of the time I end up at Gulu.
(5)
Beth A.
I'm actually a big fan of this place until they changed the weekend menu. The cut the crepes list half and the breakfast sandwiches. My partner and I went in on MLK Day and they didn't have anything that we usually order, even the cheese and meat platter folks rave about - gone. The kitchen refused to make a simple butter crepe. We were so disappointed. Please bring back your regular menu!!
(3)
Sarah J.
My mom and I come to Massachusetts every year and visit Salem! We always make a point to stop at this wonderful place because of their amazing crepes! We are never disappointed with the food or the service. Try the Nutella and banana crepe!
(5)
Lara L.
Quite disappointed that this was my least favorite restaurant in Salem but even that isn't necessarily an insult to Gulu. I think we came there at a crazy time of the day. So I want to give them the benefit of the doubt. They let our dog sit with us and provided fresh water for him (and us) after a very long drive which is always much appreciated. I was just super bummed by how so-so my crepe tasted! And my husbands meal was just average. The best thing I got there was the Italian Stallion. I'd definitely go there again for some spiked coffee. But not for crepes.
(3)
N B.
Poor service. We ordered 2 soups of the day(vegetable soup) and my friend wanted to order mac and cheese and asked the waiter if it will be ready at the same time as the soup since were in hurry to catch a train. After waiting for 20 min we asked the waiter if the food was ready. He said -'you should've told before"!!! Was the question about bringing mac and cheese in time with the soup not enough??? He should've told us that if some dish is taking longer or something. He didn't give any explanation for his delay. And then he was dilly dallying around and wont even look at us when we asked for our check. He almost made us miss our train. We spent 40 min there for something which should have been done in 15min. Never eating there again. Also the soup tasted awful and wasn't worth the $5.50.
(1)
Derek S.
Food is great. Drinks are delicious. Atmosphere is good, though aim to sit inside. The outside seating (more often than not) has proved unsatisfactory due to sewer gas coming from the storm drains nearby.
(4)
Dean H.
There can be a wait but it's worth it. Huge craft beer selection, creeps and sandwiches are tasty at a reasonable price. Only downside is the campers who bring their laptops and hangout for hours.
(3)
J P.
was here tonight and it was crazy busy. I dont really mind sitting yourself but I do mind when its super busy and people are just sitting with their laptops drinking tea. Or people taking up tables just sitting and talking no food or drink go to Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts. Its way too packed in there for that nonsense espcially during Haunted Happenings it shouldnt be allowed. The food is good not as good as the last time we were here. Ordered the red zen tea it was pretty good and got the Istanbul and it just wasnt as good as I remembered. My partner got the barcelona and she loved it.
(3)
Christina M.
If you want to visit a cool cafe with a local artists vibe, Gulu Gulu Cafe is the place for you. It's a seat-yourself kind of place with tables, booths, and lounge spaces for you to choose from. They even sell the art hanging on the walls, if modern art is your thing. My visiting family from the Dominican Republic didn't get it, and proceeded to spend a good 20 minutes laughing about how much money they could make getting their little kids to create the same kind of "art". Well, to each his own! The food itself was a mixed bag for me. The portions were pretty small, so you may find ordering an appetizer or pastry helpful if you are really hungry. The paninis half our table ordered were delicious, and I liked how the sandwiches, wraps, and crepes came with a mixed green salad. It was a tiny salad, but still tasty and appreciated as an extra taste on the plate. However, we were really disappointed by the crepes. I ordered the chicken cordon bleu crepe, and it had an atrocious amount of Dijon mustard that was so spicy it literally cleared my sinuses and made me tear. They were nice enough to take it back and prepare the crepe without the mustard, but it still was a flat square crepe with so-so filling. If you're going for crepes, don't! Gulu Gule Cafe can't hold a candle to the deliciousness that are crepe sandwiches in other places, like Mr. Crepe in Davis Square, for example. If I ever came back I would stick to the panini sandwiches. Or better yet, get a coffee and snack and read a book during off-peak times instead.
(3)
Courtney N.
This place doesn't get the credit it deserves. The food is incredible, the beer selection is extensive and interesting, the atmosphere is cool and hip without being off-putting. I lived in Salem for a couple of years, and Gulu was the go-to place for me to bring my out-of-towner friends when they came to visit. Live music, board games, friendly servers who don't get annoyed with my indecisiveness. What more could you want! The meat and cheese coalition is fantastic, and big enough to eat as a meal. The paninis and wraps are delicious (try the Istanbul--best sandwich I've ever had in my life). Cookies are humongous and served warm. I really can't enough good things about this place. Check it out!
(5)
Courtney G.
Came here yesterday for lunch and a few beers and I'm glad I did. When we got there is was packed but they offered us a couch to eat and drink at. It was so adorable. My friend and I felt like we were in an episode of friends. We each got a pumpkin beer and I ordered the Lyon Vegitarian panini while my friend ordered the Portobello salad as a wrap. Both were delicious. The best part about our meal I thought was our waitress. She was so sweet and funny. Even when it got busy she still would come over to check on us during our leisurely 2 hour lunch. I don't remember her name, otherwise I'd call her out, but she had short hair and reminded me of what Tinkerbell would probably look and act like. This was one of our first stops in Salem and it really set the mood for the whole day. I definitely recommend it.
(5)
Matt W.
Good draft brew selection. Girlfriend had a white mocha. Nice ambiance. A little hard to get a seat inside on a rainy day(^_^)
(4)
Amanda G.
Had a very lovely lunch at Gulu Gulu! My savory crepe was divine - the dough itself had fragrant herbs mixed in, and the gruyere chicken, and basil were fresh, with good portions of each. Was a bit disappointed that they were out of d'affinois cheese however, as I think it would have been even better. The blueberrry/brie crepe was a bit less of a hit - the Brie wasn't melted enough but the blueberries were pleasant. Nice latte selection as well. Would certainly go back and try more of the crepes!
(4)
Shaun S.
-dog friendly -food was a tad bit $ -decent beer selection -service was super slow like european slow
(4)
Michele H.
I have not had a bad dish here. Their smoked salmon and cream cheese plate is incredible. Amazing panini. I love their bread and cheese pairings. Beer is abundant, with craft brews for all. And just a great atmosphere.
(5)
Anne S.
This was a stop during our Salem visit. The ambience is great! Very inviting! They had a few good gluten free options for my daughter. She had a roast beef and Swiss on a Gluten free wrap and she loved it. The coffees and crepes were also very good!
(5)
Jo-e M.
Our favorite bar in Salem. We have been coming here for a little while (before we moved to Salem) and always liked it - friendly staff, great beer, great location, great food. Can't recommend this place enough
(5)
Melissa G.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this place! My go to anytime I am in salem and sometimes I'll even drive to salem just to eat there
(5)
E. H.
The service here is painfully slow. And sullen. Where is the sense of urgency? I have been here when it was dead--DEAD--and it took them over half an hour to make a bad crepe. I watched. I was surprised the kid who made it could see through all that ennui. I have heard similar food related horror stories from my friends--soup sent back multiple times to be reheated, only to have it come back cold--but what I really don't like here is the management. They're just...not nice people. I think they've banned two thirds of Salem from this place. That's fine for tourist season, but it's not a good idea to alienate the locals. What happens when the natives get restless?
(1)
Donato A.
Excellent food and prices. I love the panini sandwiches. Large selection of beers and very comfortable atmosphere. We love sitting by the windows. No pressure from wait staff to order. One thing for sure is you need to bring back the "PALERMO" panini.
(5)
Niki S.
I love the Gulu!! After tonight's Chicken Caesar Wrap, I had to finally sit down and write a review.. Every time I have gone to the Gulu-Gulu, I have enjoyed myself and the chill atmosphere. I really do believe it is their mission for you, their guest, to have a wonderful experience. Come in, relax.. order a beer after breakfast! Why not?! Every visit is what you make it.. The Gulu's Breakfast Sammies are awesome.. Their teas are relaxing.. Decadent coffees, espresssssoooooooo!!! Zoom! I have only had their sweet Banana Chocolate Crepe, but I immediately thought "I should not get addicted to these" I like their sandwiches, but I love their wraps. Plus, the price includes a salad and chips. Right now, I am enjoying a Large Iced Andes Latte.. My server warned that there were three espressos in this bad larry. 16 ounces for four bux?! Sold. You won't find this Peppermint Mocha deliciousness alongside an awesome freakin' wrap at Starbucks. There are so many beverages on the menu that every one in your party will have their something special. Beer, Martinis, Mimosas!?! Imagine your living room with everything at hand.. Wine, Cheese, Apples to Apples and WiFi.. seriously. Go to the Gulu!!
(5)
Joey L.
This is an awesome cafe/bar. It was packed and there were people studying, playing board games, having dinner, sipping their coffee, doing work and having a beer. I love their craft beer selection. I also tried the cheese board and it was awesome. Will definitely be back.
(4)
GatesofDawn67 M.
I want to amend my review. I have since learn to brew my own espresso and I have gotten pickier. I no longer recommend the Gulu's espresso. See my older review for comments on atmosphere food and service.
(4)
Leah N.
Favorite Spot in Salem. I'm only giving it 4 stars because the service is a little slow. The servers are great, but last call 12:45. They take your drinks away at 12:53 (at least that was when mine was taken away.) If it's open until 1, why don't I have until 1 to finish my drink? I don't like having to slam a beer when I get one for last call... ? They do get a little snappy towards bar close as well. I went here for my birthday with a bunch of friends from MN, and we all had a great time. Love the environment, super fun vibe. Just wish the town would extend bar close an hour.. (which is not their fault, although I stand by they could let you have until 1 to finish your drink)
(4)
William M.
One of my favorite laid-back places to grab a beer in Salem. It's somewhat of a mix of coffee lounge, sandwich bar, craft beer fest. They're known for their crêpes and ever-changing eclectic and tasteful beer selection. The sandwiches and other foods are consistently tasty, but beware of the dijon mustard. I'm not sure if it's homemade, but it's wicked spicy! Shoots a zinger up my nose and tears up my eyes while overwhelming some bites of my otherwise delicious sandwich. There's wifi, board games, and open mic. night where you can see the odd and creative folks Salem attracts. Some are really good, some are terrible and loud. There are poetry nights, and special events such as independent film showings. The staff is typically hipster, experienced, and seems to turnover almost as often as the beer selection.
(4)
Molly O.
Order the BEC on ciabatta toast breakfast sandwich! And the smoothies! I can't say enough good things about the breakfast sandwich. Somehow hearty, yet light, flavorful, and hit the spot for a lazy morning. The wildberry smoothie tasted exactly like black raspberry ice cream and it was dairy free!
(4)
Michael C.
One of the tastiest crepes I've ever had. Great menu too!
(4)
Jay W.
Great coffee and eclectic decor. The only downside is the customers seemed angry and on edge
(4)
Leah O.
This restaurant is definitely my favorite place in town. Not only does it have amazing food and very friendly service, but the beer list is fantastic! And there's always art made by local artists on the walls. Musicians regularly come and perform at the cafe, and the entertainment is usually pretty good. If you have never been to Gulu Gulu, be advised that it is not a place for someone who's in a rush. I go to Gulu Gulu to hang out and drink good beer, so it never bothers me, but sometimes you have to wait a bit for your food.
(5)
Thomas N.
This is likely my favorite spot in Salem. The beer selection is incredible and the coffee is outstanding. The service is always exceptional and friendly. Performances are varied and more interesting than most places and there's always a new art show on the walls. The cherry on the top is NO TVs... thank the gods. From their website, it seems that the lack of TVs is intentional to create a more social atmosphere or something to that effect. I like it. It's got relaxed, friendly feel. My only request would be more vegan food, though they do try.
(5)
Christina L.
A great place to chill with cool people, have a drink, and something really tasty to eat. Definitely a place to revisit.
(4)
Kristine A.
I can't believe in all my years of going to Salem I didn't know this place existed. I am thankful to my friend for moving there & showing me this place. It is so adorable & very down to earth, artsyish & fun. It has a decent size menu & veggie options which is super important for me. I am going to have to make sure to I get here every time I hit up Salem. It's pretty busy like all the time so be prepared for that.
(4)
Jennifer T.
Don't understand the great reviews. Trendy spot but so so food and terrible service. Took forever to get the crepe and panini we ordered (not during a busy time). Never got refills on water or iced tea. Food lukewarm when finally delivered.
(2)
Lana G.
Stopped by on a whim on Friday, when my mother and I were visiting the Peabody Essex Museum and wanted a light lunch. Food menu and potion sizes were perfect! Great vegetarian options, make your own crepes, creative salads, and great cafe drinks! Everything you could want for a healthy, light lunch or snack. I almost wish I lived closer so that I could return to the mismatched chairs, funky art, game shelf and wonderful wait staff. I will definitely return next time I am in Salem. As one who lives in Somerville, I love the hipster-feel and I think that's a wonderful characteristic of this place that sets it apart from mediocre options in the area.
(5)
Paul A.
Terrific beer selection and different menu. Had the smoked turkey, BLT Pannini. Tasted okay, not spectacular. Asked for extra mayo. Service slow and cafe not as busy as usual. Thus the 3 stars. Would go back. Hostess was friendly , cooperative and nice.
(3)
Johnathon B.
One of the most hyped-up businesses in Salem. I'll give it to them...location is extremely important for this restaurant. With its city-central base of operations, it's hard to ignore. No bones about it, they have a ton of beers to choose from. The food on the other hand...meh. I had a Caesar Wrap and it was pretty disappointing. (What tasted like) Store-bought, vinaigrette-style dressing, mixed greens (mostly spinach), and uninspiring cheese on a wheat tortilla. The soup of the day was alright, but lukewarm. I've tried their crepes...they always turn out limp and bland. The environment is quaint, but surely not enough to make up for the not-so-great food. TIP: Go next door to Flying Saucer Pizza. It's owned by the same people, so generally they have similar beer choices, the daily specials are delicious, the ambience is great (old sci-fi movies and great music), and it's way more affordable.
(2)
Joe M.
A great place to hang out. Great food I love the creeps. The utepononik is a great warm weather meaty snack.
(5)
Jamie S.
Great beer and awesome fresh great eats! My husband and I came here and, delicious!!!! Definitely hope to go again soon! I need to look up Parkin for my next visit.
(4)
Abbie L.
Great crepes and cheese plate... mmm... good vibe
(4)
Fiona I.
We got the red peppers and artichokes tapenade with flatbread as appetizer. It tasted decent until.... We found hair on it!!!It's a shame that such a cute cafe would have such a terrible hygiene. The menu is interesting and has many choices, but the lack of cleanliness is disappointing. The server didn't seem surprised when I showed her the hair inside the tapenade. On top of that, she didn't even bother to apologize for what had happened. Extremely disappointed!!!
(1)
Vivian C.
Located directly behind the "Bewitched" statue, the Gulu Gulu Cafe is a nice spot to stop for a snack. If you want to sit outside, let the staff know, but if you want to sit inside, just go ahead and find yourself a seat! A ton of games are available for the borrowing, and you're not hurried along here. It is a nice place to hang out. The high ceiling may have helped the noise to disperse a touch. The $8.00 Strawberry & Nutella Crepe arrived hot and yummy to the table, while the $2 orange cream soda was served in a chilled bottle along with a glass of ice to pour it into. Two individual bathrooms are available per gender, and cute fishes decorated the hallway. When leaving, be careful of the single low lying step!
(4)
Eunice R.
I spent my 21st birthday here and it was all that I could have hoped for! Great beer selection, wonderful vibe, and fairly priced. I had their beer sampler and thought that was a great deal. Didn't get to try out their food, but definitely plan on it!
(5)
Jody G.
Very cute sandwich shop in walking distance from the Salem Witch Museum. Everything is nice and fresh.... and there is a lot to choose from: crepes, salads, sandwiches, soups..... I had a tuna salad wrap. The tuna was high quality white Albacore with just the right amount of chopped celery and mayo. There was a choice of a white, whole wheat, spinach, or tomato wrap. I chose the whole wheat and it was nice and fresh. The only negative is that there was a lot of lettuce and not enough tomatoes or onions on my sandwich. The lettuce even overpowered the tuna salad a bit. The sandwich was served with a teeny-tiny bit of green salad and some kettle style potato chips. My vote would be to do away with the little bit of salad (since there was so much lettuce in the wrap) and perhaps put a nice pickle on the plate in its place.
(3)
Yolanda C.
Having some Chocolate Banana Crepes with Strawberry and powdered sugar. This place has one of the best crepes north of Boston. I'm a huge crepe fan and this place is always my go to crepe place. It is located right in the heart of Salem. A great place to have lunch after walking around and touring Salem. It does get super busy but the wait really isnt that bad. I've been coming here for years and I think the longest I had to wait was maybe 15mins tops. If anyone has relatives or visitors coming into town and are showing them around Salem, don't forget to stop in here.
(5)
Rachel D.
Gulu Gulu is as good as Salem gets, and if you're in Salem you're in for a treat - especially if you're a hipster. Gulu Gulu is hipster haven, among many other things. It's got delicious coffee, great sandwiches and snacks, and many little nooks to sit and reach a book or update your blog. The owners are very friendly too, and the wait-staff definitely reflects the aesthetic feel Gulu Gulu set out to achieve. If you're a fan of the Otherside in Boston then Gulu Gulu will win you over.
(4)
Nick B.
This used to be my favorite place to go and hang out. Unfortunately I moved out of Salem. I'm not normally a coffee drinker but they do have some really good coffee. The beer list is always changing which is cool. They offer some really good ones. The food here is great. My favorite used to be a panini called the Gruen Muenster. Black forest ham, Muenster cheese, banana peppers and greens. Food can take a while to come out, even if the place is dead, so make sure you have a good amount of time to sit if your planning on eating here.
(5)
Brita F.
Outstanding service, Their bruschetta is the best -- They have board games here?! --Haiku review
(5)
Thumper B.
Really wanted to like this place because the atmosphere was lovely and the jazz performance was very enjoyable that night. Here's where they need to improve 1) Drink service is super slow. Why does it take 20 mins to get a glass of beer? Something is not working at the bar smoothly. And when we order 2 beers, why does it come out 1 beer at a time to the table? 2) Crepe - So I was really looking forward to the mushroom and (cheese) crepe. So disappointed to find out someone didn't salt the veggies (mushrooms) before putting them in the crepe, making the crepe completely bland. That's cooking 101. Always season the ingredients first. 3) Sausage platter thing my boyfriend ordered...the temperature was weird. It wasn't warm or cold...it was half cold...it just didn't work. It felt off. We liked the pickled onion. That was good. Overall a B- experience for us. I may go back for drinks and music but not for the food.
(3)
Gino R.
Food was okay but make sure you have a change of clothes in your cat otherwise all your clothes are gonna be smelling like food.
(3)
ginger B.
Each time i go to gu lu if u are seated alone the girls ignore u forever and then never check in with you. If im with friends or my husband its the opposite. Three of my friends and myself have found non food items in our food. Hair. Plastic. Etc and their crepes are minuscule. Fun atmosphere but bad service and not enough food on plate for price
(1)
Jennifer E.
For a sandwich shop, this place is top notch. The sandwiches are tasty, hearty, and made with love. The have lots of different kinds to choose from and come with crunchy potato chips and greens. The breakfast section of the menu sounds killer so I'm excited to try it sometime in the future when I'm back in Salem. One of the best parts of the menu is the beverages. They have a large selection of craft sodas, teas, coffee and espresso, and best of all: One hell of a beer selection! They have an extensive draft selection, and you can taste a few of them with a flight. Gulu rocks, and I can see why the reviews are so great. It's casual, fun, and the food is so so good. It's much larger on the inside than I would have thought, but has a cozy feel to it. It's another one of the hot spots in Salem that is also a nice relief from the hordes of tourists and ghost hunters. Slip in, grab a sammy and a brew, and enjoy a friendly chat with one of the cool-as-cucumber staff.
(5)
Nate Y.
Came here for breakfast/brunch and was happy I did. With high ceilings physically it's a fairly large space, but with the varied laid back seating and coffee shop vibe it felt real comfortable. They Serve a variety of coffee/teas and sandwiches, but their specialty are the variety of crepes. They have them as breakfast, sweet, and savory. I had the Traditional crepe with bacon, egg, and cheese. Good size, and was tasty, but for me could have a little more filling. My sister had the veggie crepe and it was packed full, oozing with goat cheese. She enjoyed it immensely. My sisters and I also shared the Nutella and banana crepe. LOVED IT. It's possible to hangout here all day into the evening, with a cabinet full of board games, serving wine and beer, and good music playing in the background. Too bad I don't live in Salem :( P.S. If you like Boston terriers and/or pugs then you can buy one for their t-shirts.
(4)
John R.
Nice little spot here. Has that laid back, hipster type vibe where you know you could bring in a laptop or some music and hang out for hours. Good food too! We each had a wrap and both were delicious and came with some chips. Just moved to the area and will definitely be back!
(4)
Erin B.
If there were a place like this in Somerville, there would be lines of hipsters out the door all the time. It's not a place that was created to be hipster, it's just that hipsters can't help but love it. Anyway, I'm happy that it's in Salem, where hipsters and having good taste and beer are minorities. More room for me when I'm in between classes and want a little treat! There are many things that Gulu does well, but most appreciated are the friendly and knowledgeable service, the tasty crepes, the broad beer selection, and the mostly reasonable prices (relative to Boston area). And they have free Wi-Fi with some comfy chairs and couches, and outlets at the bar! I've never had a bad experience here!
(5)
Marina S.
The panini's were delicious- perfectly crispy and flavorful, but my drink was not so good; tasted like what I imagine gasoline would taste like. The name of it was "Starry Night" and it has absinthe and all kinds of chocolate goodness on it but unfortunately that was a fail. Though the idea of their artsy theme is great, the flavor should definitely outshine the name of the cocktail. BUT I would give this place another shot next time im in Salem because I did not try the other cocktails.
(3)
Rachel B.
My husband played a live show here and it was one of my favorite New England venues!! Tasty food, huge selection of drinks, full of noise and music. My kind of place. :) I recommend the crepes (tasted both the lemon and banana nutella), cheese and meat plate, also the panini... oh, and the HOT CHOCOLATE. Mmm... it was like one half whip, one half cocoa. So wonderful on a cold winter night. Really nice ambiance and a great place to visit if you're a tourist or just checking out Salem for a short while.
(5)
Michael C.
Beerrr
(4)
Katherine H.
Love.
(5)
Jacquee P.
This is a really lovely place to spend time with a friend and share a meal after a movie. We had the antipasto salad and the Barthelona panini. The ambiance is really inviting and warm. The Monday night we were there everyone was playing board games and eating snacks.
(5)
Kate B.
I'm baffled by the fact that this place has four stars. When we arrived, there was plenty of seating available, but we were told it would be a 45-minute wait before we could order food because the kitchen was overworked. Oh, hello, YOU'RE A RESTAURANT. Get your shiz together. We sat anyway, & the server changed her tune, telling us we could go ahead & order - it was like they'd been trying to convince us not to eat there... My friends both ordered the bagels & lox; they were told the bagel selection was very limited. One friend listed four types of bagels she preferred, & asked the server to let her know if none was available. The server, who never reported back, served her a poppyseed bagel, which was not on that list. And neither of them were given cream cheese! WITH LOX & BAGELS! When they asked, the server sounded shocked: "You want cream cheese?" Well, yes, this is a bagel, & we are Jewish. I asked the server for her opinion on two dishes, & ordered the JackMac & Cheese, which she recommended. She returned in 10 minutes to tell me it wasn't available. Just like the bagels, I guess. I ordered a tomato, basil, mozzarella panini instead, thinking it would be tasty no matter what. But... it wasn't a panini. Basically, it was the aforementioned ingredients on bread so toasty it bordered on inedible. It took 20 minutes to get out check. Luckily, we paid in cash. Who knows how long it would've taken to get a credit card back?! No, thanks, Gulu-Gulu. You may try to pass yourself off as a quirky hipster cafe, but if the service & food don't cut it, you can't fool me twice. ___ Addendum: Gulu-Gulu's General manager contacted me via Yelp to apologize for my negative experience. Good customer service, even in the aftermath, goes a long way! I'd now be happy to give Gulu-Gulu the benefit of the doubt on a return visit to Salem. Thanks for reaching out, Laura!
(2)
Tanya M.
nice cafe, mellow vibe... great service, good beer menu..
(4)
Mallory S.
I have a soft spot for the Gulu. So many great beers on tap and the service is great. I wanted to highlight the service again because the waiter/bartender went out of his way to help us find an additional chair and get our order in before the kitchen closed on a Friday night. My warning still stands: If you are going to the Gulu Fri/Sat night and are staying for the entertainment (starts at 9pm) be warned it may not be your style. Sometimes it is funky and unique is a good way and sometimes it is awful. Never a dull moment!
(4)
Anthony M.
Great beer selection, and an eclectic menu. Ambiance is super laid back, and it definetly comes across that this place is based on a Prague cafe. You can hit GG for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or just some snacks and brews and always have a great experience. Comforting and relaxing are two words I would use to describe the Gulu Gulu Cafe.
(5)
Zoe S.
We arrived here on an early weekend morning after a red eye flight from SF. The first two places on our list were boarded up. We were promptly seated and had hot coffee in front of us within seconds. I ordered a crepe that I honestly don't remember what was in it. When it arrived I thought I mistakenly ordered a burrito. The crepe was as thick as a flour tortilla and there was no sauce. There was a slice of orange though. That was the driest thickest crepe I ever had. We never saw our waitress again nor did our coffee cups ever get filled again. It took forever to get our check. I'm glad we were only visiting. We should have just went to Dunkin Donuts,there is one on every block.
(1)
Amanda C.
Gulu Gulu Cafe is one of those great spots to stop and rest your feet when you are having a touristy day in Salem. I will say, I did judge the book by its cover in a positive way because who doesn't like french bulldog mascots? There is a wide variety of craft beers on tap. No Bud, Coors or Miller products are to be seen anywhere. I always think highly of an establishment when they go the extra mile to provide local spirits. The food looked great on the menu. I was not hungry at the time, but I did enjoy a piece of pumpkin bread. 2 thick, warm slices of bread plus a coffee = a great afternoon treat. Next time I am back in Salem, I will be in for dinner!
I have to say I've been to the Gulu Gulu quite a few times since my last review. They have cleaned which is a plus and I've had a chance to sample their beer offering. On the coffee side of life, you are missing out on a perfect Americano if you don't get one here. IF you drink coffee the Gulu Gulu Americano is a must have beverage. It's that good. It is the Americano I judge all others by. Last weekend I bellied up to the bar and chatted with a friend for hours whilst we sipped some great beers. So now I have a new watering hole and a place to get caffeinated. The food here is good too. I have not been disappointed in anything I've gotten here. I am still in love with the turkey and arugula sandwich and all the stuffed crepes I've ordered. If you don't like hipsters, Gulu Gulu is not for you. If you are an aging hipster who likes good beer and coffee Gulu Gulu is for you. (After my last review, the owner emailed me and said they were going to clean, and they did, the cobwebs are gone. I think its great when a business owner deals directly with customers and then ACTUALLY follows up on what they say they will do. Gulu Gulu has won my undying love for doing as they say they will, that and having a great menu and delicious beverages.)
(5)
Paloma M.
Cute cafe in historic Salem. We sat outside and was really pleasant! Turkey sandwich was great and my coffee was also pretty good! I really enjoyed it!
(4)
John C.
Great service. It is a good after work for a snack and a couple beers. Menu is limited but delightful.
(4)
Morgan D.
Perfection. I am a avid lover of cafes and sulk regularly about the lack of great cafes in my area. I love Starbucks, but that. does. not. count! Let me preface by saying, I visited the town of Salem last summer and feel in love. I pretty much have a passionate love affair with all of New England. I truly think it's so incredible and maybe I'm a little sad I didn't grow up there....anyyyywho....I love this town and think it's adorable so imagine my surprise when my friend took us to a cafe there. This place was great!! We all ordered lattes (which come in great cutesy mugs), a sandwich platter, and wow, one of the most amazing dessert crepes. It was raining on the day we went and the cafe was the perfect place to be: high ceilings, huge floor to ceiling windows, large chalkboards with all their food/beverage items listed, amazing servers. If I lived here, I would be a regular. Another plus, turns into a bar at night (more of an intellectual bar, per se)
(5)
Beverly H.
We came in for lunch at about 1:30 on Sunday. We were greeted and seated right away, were given menus and had our order taken in a timely fashion... and then ignored for half an hour. Drinks appeared after fifteen minutes, then nothing. When we finally flagged down a waitress (not ours, who had been doing her best to stay clear), we were told that "Right after you ordered so did everybody else," which is not actually a valid excuse. We noticed that people who were ordering later were told that the kitchen was backed up and that there would be a thirty-minute wait for cooked food, and most people were fine with that, as we would have been had anyone said anything. It dosn't take much effort to drop by a table, apologize for the delay, explain about the kitchen, and see if anyone would like a refill on drinks. Avoiding eye contact for half an hour isn't a professional way to act. Having said that however, when the food arrived it was fantastic, as always. The kitchen may be slow, but they know what they're doing. Now if someone could explain a few things to the staff.
(4)
Smooth D.
The crepes were perfect! The service was okay, the first waitress neglected us completely, so another waitress helped us out. This seems to be a theme even at other tables. I expected the place to be nice and warm and toasty since it was so cold out but my hands never warmed up, even after running them under hot water in the bathroom. Very cute decor. Good food. Better service and warmer temp would have made the place perfect!
(3)
Jennifer S.
Really cool atmosphere, and different selections. Had a very nice breakfast crepe, servers were very friendly, a little slow, but that did not take away from the experience. I would definitely return.
(4)
Joey J.
Easily the best place to grab a bite in Salem - and excellent proof that we made the right decision when moving to the area. Their beer menu is exceptional, the atmosphere warm and welcoming, and even their breakfast menu is remarkable. Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner - go to Gulu Gulu - you won't regret it.
(5)
Karen A.
I'm not a drinker so I haven't tried the tons of beer there, but the sandwiches are good & the atmosphere is fun! You can eat outside if the weather is nice enough & it's close to many of the sights. I would definitely suggest this to anyone looking for a good lunch!!
(5)
Derek G.
My experience here was horrible, it is literally the sole reason I made this account. People need to be warned. YOU WANT TO TALK ABOUT A PLACE FULL OF BIGOTS? Lets talk about Gulu cafe. The staff; from the moment I walked through the door I felt like I was nothing but a waste of their time. And that's when they're actually taking the time to help you. God forbid you have to flag someone in the waitstaff down for something, because its not answered with a,"I'll be right with you sir or may'em" instead your acknowledged with a lift of the chin and a "ya, I'll be right there". Now, I understand a place can have "regulars" or waitstaff can have friends but give me a break. If the one in particular, chubby guy with the mustache would have taken ten seconds of his time to do his job rather than hang with his friends or the "regulars" this review may have gotten another star or two. But give me a break. My experience was, "here are your drinks, did you look over the menu? No, ok ill give you another 15-20 minutes since you obviously cannot read very well. And I'll just go talk to my friends over here for a while with my back to you and ignore you until I feel like it." Checks in some time later and someone else had beat him to it. "Great so now I'm done with you for the evening, moving on. Talks to friends some more. Well there's my review, for the price you pay and the service you get. Don't bother leaving a tip. I think it's factored into the overpriced beer and food already anyways.its got to be. I had to leave my money and get out of there because there was no chance they were coming to get the check for at least an hour or two.
(1)
Johnny P.
GREAT SPOT Went our first night in Salem and returned 2 more times (2x dinner once drinks) one of the best beer selections and pricing I've found Staff is friemndly, great vibe and we caught an awesome band there at night If your in Salem skip the tourist traps and go here!
(5)
Jim M.
Pros: BEST beer selection in the state(on draft and in the bottle). I had a rare Czec beer that I've only seen in Prague. AND it was on draft!!! **** Also, really hip/cool atmosphere and cool waitstaff. Cons: the food is just so/so. I've had grilled sandwiches as well as choco-banana crepes and, while they were very fresh, were lacking flavor. Also, on a busy day, you'll wait a WHILE for your meal. I waited 45 minutes for said grilled sandwich once. Still, worth a trip to sip some suds and chill.
(3)
Rachel M.
Food is ok, portions are relatively small, but whatever -- my waistline needs to be conditioned to eating smaller EVERYTHING. I like the board game selection, and the atmosphere is totally hipster. Service is awful, though. My boyfriend and I came here one rainy Friday and we waited 30 minutes to even be acknowledged at our self-seated table with menus. We were about to get up to leave when we were finally greeted by a not-so-friendly waitstaff who practically tossed us our menus. Won't be coming back here.
(2)
renae T.
5 stars for a great night out! 3 stars (being generous) for food. We read the reviews, and we're ready for service issues and a wait. We ended up finding a seat immediately, and had prompt service. Pros: kale soup, service (though didn't know much about the beer selection, we didnt care) the vibe, the latte, the games, and the music! We were there for hours! Cons, the rest of the food...mushy fruit salad, cold panini, sausage app (cold...yuck), and the crepe. Re crepe: this tasted good, but anything drowned in nutella will taste pretty good. We are crepe people and make them often. The dough here was tough, chewy. They should be light, delicate, and thin. Bottom line, we would definately go back for the pros, and hope they just had an off dy on the food.
(4)
Kevin D.
The perfect mid-town cafe. Good bandwidth from free wi-fi. Excellent house coffee - no need for fancy espresso drinks. Wonderful young people serving the tables with just the right amount of good cheer. None of that phony stuff. For those that work outside their offices and need a place to plug in, connect and have a drink & a snack, this place is for you. Thanks to DP for the tip.
(4)
Camille R.
I'm so used to these places staffing obnoxious hipster kids, but maybe because Salem doesn't house many hipsters this spot lucked out. Everyone I've spoken to behind the counter has been really down to earth and friendly. A plethora of tea, coffee, and beer options and really yummy desserts. They play good music throughout the day and there's plenty of space to hang out and chill for the afternoon, or evening. Live music some nights, so keep an eye out for the chalkboard that lists upcoming shows. I've had some lunch foods here: bruschetta, mac and cheese, and a sandwich. They were just okay. But the desserts!! Did I tell you about the desserts??
(4)
Rich T.
LOVED IT! Awesome place, and great sandwiches.
(5)
Robbo O.
The food and coffee at Gulu are good - five star for what they are (it's a panini, fercrissakes!) - but I have a chip on my shoulder about their abandoning their spot in Lynn, which admittedly didn't do nearly the business they do in Salem, but made for a more peaceful experience for me, and I'm all about me...ME ME ME! It's also a downer for me that Gulu in Salem is almost always packed to the rafters, so as a frequent solo diner, I'll either be at the bar, which I dislike a lot, or on a sofa with a stranger (I can deal with that alright). It's not a very comfortable space when crowded: The acoustics are very loud and echoey, the bar seats are hard on my boney runner's ass, and the bar not deep enough to comfortably eat a meal, and it's pretty dark in there unless you score a seat by the window. The service people have always been fine, if a bit cursory because of the crowds they're juggling. All in all, it's a matter of wild success snatching the fifth star. I think the proprietors can live with that. Bottom line: On a Tuesday afternoon, when there is a tornado watch in effect, this is a great place to relax over crepes and lattes!
(4)
Lucy S.
Love this place! The only downside is seating fills I past. Great list of beers-very wide selection. Come for the crepes they're amazing!
(4)
Robert M.
This place is terrible. It has become very successful because it has become a mecca for local hipsters. The food is okay. The staff are the rudest people I have met in the planet.They had an open mic there one night and my friend was performing so I brought all my camera gear and set up. One of my friends asked me to bring a keyboard out to his car. whenI returned they told me I had to wait to get in. I informed that I had already been and that half my camera gear was in the restaurant already. the woman then started yelling at called another woman over who was apparently the manger who told me she was going to call the police on me. Eventually I was able to have a friend grab most of my camera gear. This place blows (pardon my language) but I have no other way expressing how much I hate this place. It's in incredible clicky trendy hipster atmosphere and staff is insufferable. If your a rich art student looking for a hipster hang out. Then this is the place for you. If not I would recommend finding another coffee shop in town. Like the Front Street Coffee shop. Their place might be small but their coffee is great and your treated like a person when you go there. p.s. Notice the Owners statement below trying to discredit my review, but if you scroll around you'll notice I'm not the only person on here that has had trouble with the staff. I am no way a trouble maker if you want better review treat your customers with respect.
(1)
Susan R.
I was literally right there when Quinn E was turned away from the gay night, and when the DJ kicked us out of the table where we had spent WAY too long waiting for food/drinks and spent a LOT of cash. Admittedly, it was ridiculous and horrible, and I can understand Quinn's 3 star rating given the bad time had by all of our group. However, I have been back several times since and have to give it a 4. Why? Well... for starters, they have great cheese platters and the best beer menu I have seen outside of Boston... i mean... really really good beer. Also, they play movies on certain nights, have a monthly gay tea dance (never been, since I fear being rejected again from a Salem gay party), an array of DJs, live bands, probably an open mic night (though I would rather rip my own eardrums out than attend a rural open mic night) and are generally a cool place in the early evening hours to have beer, tea, cheese, paninis... etc etc. If i were a teen or a college kid up in Salem, this would be BY FAR the best hang out within a 20 mile radius, and for that, i have to give them 4 stars. Let me take you back and we can have a nice, normal, non-halloween time at Gulu Gulu. You will see that it's pretty cool... all things considered.
(4)
Aubrey P.
An adorable and cozy spot. The second you walk in you feel at home. There are tables, couches and board games. I got an iced coffee which was great! And... COCONUT MANGO CHEESECAKE!! it was some of the best cheesecake I have ever had. It was two layers and you could actually taste both favors. Prices were great. Both for about 8$ They also have many yummy beers on tap and I have many a friends who rave about this place. Would go again. Also... A pug and boxer are the cafe's mascots. Can't beat that!!!
(5)
jenna f.
Terrible customer service skills. I wrote to the owner and general manager regarding my concerns and neither one took the time to reply. Edit*** owner and manger responded after seeing this post. Listened to nothing I said and took word of a server that lied. Probably only contacted me because I left one star. If I could leave half a star I would.
(1)
Su R.
Pretty amazing on many counts. large , so plenty of room to move around. the menu seems to keep getting better, and even included alcohol! coffee, tea, or booze, yes. it can be kinda loud at times, there was a group of girls in the middle of the place the other day that were obnoxiously chatting and laughing away. . there is often live music events here at night. Crepes=fab. I had the smores crepe with nutella instead of chocolate= drool. my friend loved the veggie wrap. oh and the creme brulee latte= yummmmmm
(4)
Francesca G.
One of my new favorite places. Went here for breakfast and then for drinks at night during my stay in Salem. I loved the atmosphere and live music. The beer selections were amazing, coffee drinks were great, and food was equally as good.
(5)
S L.
Went here a ton. Great place to escape the touristy crap Salem banks on. Really wish they had better bands play...some of the crap on a saturday night was unbearable to sit through. The beer is priced really well so when I'd go here (once a week) we'd get high percent beers and hang outside (the outside seating is the best part) to people watch. Veggie options were great, wish they changed up some of their stuff and served breakfast options all day.
(3)
Jenn B.
Hipster vibe, varied selection beers and on a weekend morning nice bloody mary! The smoked salmon is deeeeelicious! Has a peppered rub. So good on a bagel with all the goods (onions, lettuce etc) on a Saturday morning after a one two many cocktails from the night before. Only down fall service can be a bit slow....
(4)
Mindy L.
I think this place is tops! Went here because the last trip to Salem we made a mental note that we wanted to come back and give it a try. Couldn't resist heading up to the North Shore on a bright, beautiful and sunny Sunday! We ordered the Cheese & Meat Platter (choice of 8 different cheeses and 5 different meats). For only $9.00 you get your choice of three. We decided on the fresh mozz and herb & oil soaked brie and the genoa salami. The platter comes with fresh toasted ciabatta bread and they are not skimpy on the portions! We got 3 huge slices of mozz, an entire wedge of brie and a bunch of salami. It was delicious. For my lunch entree I decided on the "Istanbul" - fresh mozz, turkey, tomato and pesto. The plate comes not only with the largest panini I've ever seen, but also a side salad and a handful of Cape Cod potato chips. Mmm. Everything was so fresh and the portions were beyond generous. The vibe here is ecclectic - bright yellow walls, strange art, funky furniture. They also have board games you can play on those rainy days as well as live music.
(4)
Courtney F.
We really enjoyed our visit to the Gulu Gulu Cafe while touring Salem. The atmosphere was laid back and the service was prompt. The best part was that they offered gluten-free pie. I got the apple pie and it was pretty close to the real thing. I would definitely go back if we lived in the area.
(4)
Siervo J.
The food is definitely not good. I will never go back to this cafe. People should go to other places before saying that this place is good. totally disappointed!
(1)
Amelia L.
Yummy and delish! The bloody Mary was SO good! I had a fantastic crepe with egg, cheese and bacon. I was sad that I was only able to go once!
(4)
Christina A.
This place is very hipster with yummy sandwiches and a stellar selection of craft beers. They are the only place in the area that does crepes. They do dessert crepes and savory ones. My only complaint is that they need to serve ice cream with their dessert crepes. I got the s'more crepe and it was too much chocolate and marshmallow and felt like it was missing something. It's a nice place to go for a casual meal or drink. The music at night can be a little strange for my taste. They have open mic night on Wed. nights from 8-11. It can get really crowded that night and on Friday and Saturdays. Overall this place is good.
(4)
Janet H.
Stopped by here during a visit to Salem. The place is casual and friendly. The waiter and waitress that helped us were very attentive and made sure we were happy with our drinks and food. I ordered the banana and nutella crepe and absolutely loved it.
(4)
Chelsea L.
Next time you find yourself in Salem, do not miss getting brunch at Gulu Gulu cafe. It is a great, offbeat cafe that does not take itself too seriously. I'll be honest, normally anything that hints at hipster has me running for the hills. I blame Harvard Square for putting the bad taste in my mouth. What's great about the alternative atmosphere at Gulu Gulu is that at no point does it feel like they're trying to be different, they just are. You can tell that every member of the staff truly enjoys what they do. From the tattooed rock a billy waitresses to the long haired boys in skinny jeans every one is extremely friendly and helpful. When my waitress helped me select a local draft it was because she was passionate about the menu, not because it was her job. I have been twice now, once with my little sister who is easy to please, and once with my mother and her friend who is never pleased. Everyone loved it! Both times I had the bagel and lox (creature of habit) and it was wonderful. My sister had the cheese plate and judging by the samples I filched from her plate it was tasty as well. If you live in Boston, Gulu Gulu is worth making the trek for, even if you have no either reason to be in Salem. You will not be disappointed.
(5)
James L.
Best beer selection in town. Staff is friendly and knows about beer. Almost always have hard to find beers, whether on tap or in bottles. And the Jack Max'n Cheese is the most delicious thing I've ever had.
(5)
Amanda M.
they dont have a lot on the menu but the things they do have are are unique. I got some turkey panini sandwich with i think swiss cheese, dijon mustard, some greens, and an apple spread. The apple and mustard complimented each other so nicely. It gave my tastebuds a little dance with each bite. The turkey also had a good honey smoked flavor. Thier soda was from a local brewery called mercury. I got a diet cola which was a little sweeter then coke and had kind of a peppery taste. Very good. My boyfriend also got a steak chilli which was good too.They have outdoor seating as well.
(5)
Casey F.
Great beer, friendly staff, good place to hang out.
(4)
Danna D.
I really love this place. The food and drinks have always been good, and it is a great place to hang out for a bit. Everyone is very friendly, and the owner is awesome as well. I like the whole feel of the place, and the live music is pretty cool. I don't want to knock them down a start for this (and I wont) because it is an awesome place, but the service kind of sucks overall. I've been there quite a few times, and each time I have to flag down someone on the waitstaff to get a refill of coffee or anything else. I could literally sit there for 30 minutes after finishing my coffee without anyone checking up to see how I'm doing. Mind you, the place could be completely empty, and I still get that same exact service.
(5)
Janna H.
Great atmosphere! That was definitely the best part for me. The servers were nice and the food choices are great. They even had fruit beers on tap! Very eclectic feel all around. The one major downside was that the entire back area where the bathrooms are located smelled really bad, as if they mopped the area with a sour mop. It's impossible to miss the smell, so I'm very disappointed that it was left that way.
(3)
Travis S.
My wife and I were only in Salem for one night and still had two of our meals here. Great sandwiches, great beer selection, really nice staff, and a really cool vibe. If I lived anywhere nearby I would certainly be a regular. Fantastic spot.
(5)
Serena H.
Honestly, I really enjoy the atmosphere of this place. Their coffee isn't bad and they have an admittedly impressive selection of beer. However I have never once, in the 6 or 7 times I've been forced to go there, received even an approximation of mediocre service. The waitresses are always nowhere to be found, the bill is always elusive (despite asking for it twice or thrice) and the food has never come out anything short of 30 minutes. It's a good thing the cafe serves mostly cold food because if they had to be responsible for hot food who knows what may happen. I cannot justify spending this much on a sandwich or a salad just to be treated like a burden to the wait staff. I'm puzzled at the excellent reviews this place enjoys. I won't be giving it anymore chances. Sorry!
(1)
Chris S.
There was literally nothing on the menu for gluten intolerance for a Sunday brunch the one time I attempted to eat here. Bored hipsters is right.
(1)
Jess M.
I came here to kill some time while visiting Salem. The patio was mobbed, so I grabbed a seat at the bar. I got a house coffee and spinach artichoke dip. They put way too much sugar in my coffee so I asked for a new cup. They gave me a new one, no problem. The coffee was solid and the dip was phenomenal. Your typical spinach artichoke dip has cheese in it, but this one was just spinach and artichoke with cumin. Best spinach artichoke dip I've ever had. The flatbread it was supposed to come with was just plain pita bread but it worked. The only downside to this place is that the bathrooms were not very clean. They reminded me of a club bathroom. So pee before you come here. But definitely go.
(4)
Julia N.
I dont live close, I've been here twice and LOVED the sandwhiches I've ordered. The chicken salad wrap is so good, i wanna go there right now and get it I like the atmosphere, very cambridge or seattle :)
(5)
Valerie N.
First time I went here, I got an awesome chicken sandwich, which was, again, awesome! However, best part was the side salad, whatever that red dressing is that they use is scrumptious! Another time I came by during the winter for hot apple cider, it was the best I've ever had. Just waiting for the cold weather to set in again so I can go back for another. The atmosphere is great, relaxed and friendly. The fact that they also display the works of local artists and let local bands play there makes it even better. A great little restaurant / bar, if you're visiting salem this place is definitely worth it!
(4)
Benjamin L.
The Gulu (as we call it) is a uniquely awesome place. The atmosphere isn't that of a bar or cafe. I feel like it's more like a lounge. Solid beer selection and great tea and coffee to boot. The food and mixed drinks are also pretty tasty. The people who come here range from seniors to toddlers but mostly it seems to be young people in their 20s and 30s with their friends. It's my default place to meet up with pals in Salem!
(5)
Crystal B.
Banana bread=A+. They are even nice enough to make me Iced Chai Lattes in the summer!
(4)
Jonathan E.
neat little place. we had brunch here on Christmas Eve. the food was pretty good, but seemed to be in smaller quantities than i expected.
(3)
Leesha Z.
I don't really understand why this place is so hyped up. I gave this place two chances and both were pretty disappointing. First visit was on a Wednesday night. I came up to the bar during a very busy open mic night. I asked if they could make me a French 75 and the guy behind the bad replied with "no we can't." I stared at him, pretty confused and asked why. He proceeded to tell me they don't have a full liquor license and all that. I said we were all set and left. I probably would've ordered a glass or wine or something if he hadn't been so rude. Second visit, it was pretty late and I was hungry and I knew they served food late so we decided to give it a second try. We came in on a Monday, got seated right away by a friendly waitress and looked over the menus. My boyfriend and I decided to order a few dessert "cocktails". The Milky Way one and the almond joy. Both sounded pretty good. For good, I got a turkey tomato and moz crepe. We got our drinks and wow way too sweet. We both could barely finish. In fact, I couldn't even get past drinking a quarter or it. Yuck. And way too overpriced for what it is. $10 each. I felt robbed. The crepe wasn't bad, but nothing special. Everything in it seemed fresh but it didn't blow my mind. There's plenty of other places in Salem is rather to than here. Sorry.
(2)
Simon Z.
Love this place as much as I can love a hipster retreat. Gulu keeps me coming back for three things: Good beer Good Panini's Good coffee
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Hipster Noise Level : Average Music : Live Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Happy Hour : No Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat Coat Check : No Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Dogs Allowed : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Abbie L.
Great crepes and cheese plate... mmm... good vibe
(4)Stephanie S.
Sad to say I didn't care much for this place. I ordered the chicken Caesar wrap. It had too many croutons and was really salty. The lobster bisque soup was good though. My friend didn't love her dish either. It was the brunch mushroom burger. The atmosphere is cool and the service was good.
(3)Franklin M.
Great service from our waiter, he couldn't be more helpful. We ordered an iced mocha and it was very good, it had the perfect flavor and not over sweetened. My teen daughter ordered a few items and devoured them all, she is picky so that is a good sign that the food is good.
(5)Christina D.
I've been going to the Gulu Gulu since it opened its Salem location, but I have yet to have a completely satisfying experience while I'm there. Starting off with the good. The food is excellent with pretty generous servings for the price. A good selection of loose leaf and iced teas, decent coffee and lattes, and the drink menu is impressive (although I'm not old enough to order a beer just yet). Also LOVE that it's the only place in Salem open after midnight on weekends that isn't 21+ or full of drunk sports fans or bad karaoke. Unfortunately, the service has always been less than impressive, as already stated in most other reviews. It often takes 10 minutes (usually more) to get a waiter's attention, and I've also received many wrong orders - even the simplest things, such as getting a decaf latte as opposed to a regular. Also - as much as I like hanging out at Gulu on a Friday night - the live music is usually too experimental and strange for me to handle. But no matter what, I still enjoy going to Gulu every now and then. Hopefully their service improves so the good will eventually outweigh the bad.
(3)Sarah K.
Came to Salem w/ the intention of going to Coven Cafe for post-half-marathon recovery lunch (cheese? bread? meat? yes, please). Was very sad to discover that Coven does NOT exist anymore (not from the area, so I missed that memo). However, am very pleased that the no-Coven led us to try out Gulu Gulu instead. You can make your own meat & cheese plate, which comes with a substantial amount of delicious, crusty bread - awesome. (Get the marinated brie and the mustard cheddar!) Lots of tasty sandwich options - my husband described the turkey/manchego/apple butter panini as "a religious experience". After lots of begging and pleading, I got to steal a bite - he wasn't wrong. Didn't order any crepes (this time), but there were sweet and savory options, and they looked amazing. Will happily go back the next time I'm in the area.
(4)Laura D.
I used to love this place, but now I'm kinda 'meh' about it. The food is good, and they have decent entertainment, but the service has gone way down hill.
(3)Brenna R.
Great lunch menu! A great place to meet up with friends! Atmosphere is relaxing. Food is very very good!
(4)Angela Q.
I may have given this place more stars had we actually EATEN there. Instead we pulled up a seat at the bar and were ignored for 10 minutes before rudely being asked if we planned on eating and then told that if we were the wait for food was 45 minutes. And it wasn't even very busy. Boooo
(1)Anthony R.
Horrible food, miserable people, stay away. This place is literally the worst restaurant I have ever encountered in my life. Unless you enjoy eating food that tastes like cat throw up, and talking to people that think they are gods gift to the universe, do not go here. Spend your money on anything else or just throw it away because this place doesn't deserve it.
(1)liza c.
There is a giant Boston Terrier head on the front of this building. How could anyone not go in?! Seriously, though, once you get back the extreme cuteness of Gulu Gulu's mascot, you realize that the cafe isn't half bad. In fact, it's pretty great. Coming from Philly, it's hard to be satisfied with the dining options of a small town so considering what we were up against during this trip, we were pleasantly surprised. Everyone is really friendly at GGC and the dining room is spacious, yet cozy. Plus there is an outdoor seating option with a decent view of downtown Salem's goings-ons. Also, great beer list for a small town like Salem! Things to improve on - desserts were tasty, but possibly not that fresh. And our waittress mayyyy have been stoned and not in a funny way.
(4)Etta M.
Mmm! Met some friends for drinks and snackies on Saturday afternoon. We each had a cheese and meat plate, it was so tasty! We were given plenty of time to sit at our table and sip on our beers (or italian soda in my case) and enjoy each other's company. The waitstaff was wonderful and helpful. I will be going back for sure.
(5)Lisa J.
Gulu Gulu cafe was introduced t me last year by my sister and I have been going there at least monthly ever since. The staff is laid back and friendly, the menu is very interesting and the atmosphere is chill. Their Beer selection is great. They have a rotating tap menu that is always fresh and will have something for everyone. Their bottled selection is well thought out and doesn't contain Coors, Budlight or Corona ;) They support local artists, have music and open mic nights and band performances. Be sure to check the events board above the bar or the website before planning an evening there. If you don't and just show up there might be a huge crowd waiting for a band to perform or some such. I'm pretty sure they offer free wifi and you can sit and read by the window in one of their comfy chairs and sip a latte all day if you want without being harassed. If you're looking for good food, good atmosphere, friendly servers and NO Yeah Dudes then this is the place for you!
(4)Lauren F.
Gulu Gulu Cafe has outdoor seating, an extensive beer list (including Framboise!) and an interesting menu of crepes and sandwiches. My husband and I have been there twice, and I don't think I can go again without ordering the Meat and Cheese Coalition - a plate of 3 meats and cheeses you pick out from a list. The habanero cheddar is hot! So far everything I've ordered there has been good: ham and Brie crepe, blue cheese salad (nice amount of blue cheese, pears, and walnuts). I do think the service could be a little more attentive though. The last time we went our waitress forgot about us and another server reminded her to come out and give us the check - d'oh!
(4)Janice R.
Wow!! Excellent breakfast!! Fresh delicious eggs in wonderful croissant, and banana bread. Superb coffee!! Give me another. Wait service so nice!!! Thank you to Matt!! With all our demands and questions since we are new customers today. lol We sat by the speaker, but then my husband asked for the music to be turned down! and they turned it down, thank you! I/we shall be back!! and soon!!
(5)Kate P.
My husband and I went in here last night. We were drawn to the cute decor, the vegetarian-friendly menu, and the chance to eat outdoors on what was a crisp fall evening. The food was good, but ultimately the service wasn't great. My husband's appetizer came out with another table's appetizers and they didn't bring mine out. His was soup and since we were outdoors on a chilly evening, so he really didn't have a choice but to eat it. Our main courses came out while he was still eating his soup, and they brought my appetizer (salad) at the same time. I told the food runner who dropped off the food that I didn't want my salad anymore since my main course was there. She said that she didn't think it would be possible to remove from the bill, and I asked to speak to a manager. She said there wasn't a manager on duty, and I reaffirmed that we needed it to come off the bill. Our server then came out and said she put the salad in as an appetizer (implying she had done her part but the kitchen or someone else had made the mistake) and that it was policy not to take things off the bill. She said she could wrap it for us to take with us. We said that because we didn't live around there, that wouldn't work for us and we would need it off the bill. These things happen, and I know that servers can't always handle these situations on their own / without the involvement of a manager, so we probably would have just dealt with it and paid for the salad, except our server seemed ticked off or offended by the situation and that's when service really dropped off. Although there was an empty drink glass on the table, she didn't ask if we wanted more drinks (as she was walking away we had to call after her and ask for more drinks). The food runner checked on us during our meal and asked how our food was. The runner was also the one who ultimately picked up our plates when we were done. The next thing the server did was drop the check off. She didn't ask if we wanted desert or coffee or more drinks. She just dropped the check and ran. (We probably would have stayed around and ordered desert.) The check had the salad on it. If she had bothered to acknowledge the situation again and say something along the lines of, "I'm sorry for what happened, but I'm afraid I can't take the salad off the bill" we would have been like, "sure, we get it, it's not a problem". But the fact that she never apologized, dropped the check and ran, and didn't seem to give a damn about us after the issue with the salad, said to us that this place needs some serious Service 101 for its servers. We wanted what we were paying for and asked for a new salad to take with us. They did this and in less than 5 minutes, it was in our hands and we were out the door. In the end, they threw a salad away and are getting a thumbs down review here. It would have been better if they managed to get the first salad out in less than 5 minutes, took it off the bill, or just apologized. Next time we're in Salem, we'll be staying away from this place.
(1)Janet D.
Funky little place in center city Salem. Get the cheese and meat platter for a wonderful midday snack or appetizer. The sage cheese is smooth and tasty and the red dragon is a unique texture and flavor. Add a glass of wine or a pint. A great place to just relax! Service is relaxed, friendly and good.
(5)JuliaJolie J.
I really used to like this place. It used to be my absolute favourite cafe/bar to hang out in and I used to go in there every day, starting a few months after it opened. Then, suddenly - well, over the last few months, it just...changed. I blame the open mic night. I went to their first one and it was godawful. It's improved since then, but I feel as though every time I go in there, there should be an ABC Family film crew shooting some tender but clichéd pivotal college date scene there. The vibe has totally changed and the café has just become an overstuffed, hipper-than-thou parody of itself. What happened to the Wii game night? Or movie nights on Tuesdays? Instead of keeping a variety of theme nights, music and movies it just feels like I've wandered into some pretentious hipster's never-ending housewarming party. It seems like no-one seems to work, everyone's just standing outside smoking [cigarettes, but you know they all would smoke pot if they could] and bad music from someone's limited-selection iPod (because no other mp3 players exist) is blaring, annoying to the point of being invasive. This place used to feel like a real café/bar. It had a unique thing going in that they served coffee (which really isn't that good) as well as beer (which really is good, but overpriced). The free wi-fi is great, and I don't have to listen to any obnoxious sports broadcast. The staff are extremely cordial, so don't get me wrong. But what's the point in going there when it just feels like someone's party? I hate going in there now, so I hardly ever do. It just feels like some little scenester club now. Like someone's private little in-joke, where everyone just seems to know everyone and it really is just some giant, loud, obnoxious party. And because I know I just want to sit quietly and be my nerdy self on the internet, I feel like I'm just not welcome there.
(1)Karla U.
i came here as a tourist recently while visiting a friend. I must say the atmosphere is really cool, very "rebellious" very "punk rock" or "rockabilly" type. Good selection of beer. And they have veggie treats. The decor is very artsy and doesn't feel like a tourist trap. :D We had the Marinated Brie cheese starter.......omg. it was heaven on earth, the flavors of the Olive Oil and the brie mixing together in that creamy goodness was just delightful, something I hope to taste again. the flavor is strong, but the cream of the brie soothes it down. Then we had the Grapeleaves had a strong favor, but it comes with a yogurt dip, so it was really good. I notice they mix flavors here a lot, and I like that. The service was ok, I do remember though, me and my friend drinking our water slowly. The staff seemed really nice, they have lots of art stuff all over, and I think they sell art work on their website. The food here was fabulous, filling, and not cheesy tourist crap, I also had the Lyon Vegeterian Panini, SO GOOD! OMG! artichokes just teased me and made me go SQUEE! the sandwich just tasted wonderful, and melted in my mouth. You have to try this! :D I would go back when I go visit my friend again. :D If your'es in the Salem area, and want to get away from the cheesy witch stuff, GO HERE you'll be glad you did. :D check it!
(5)Beth G.
I'm so grateful that a place like this exists in Salem. It's a cool cafe w/funky art, friendly vibe, good food, great beer and wine selection. The service can be pretty slow, but then again what's the rush when one is in a nice space? Hence, go when you have time to relax for a bit. When people come to visit we always stop at the Gulu, and our visitors are typically impressed. Even when people aren't visiting, we like to go here w/groups for shows. The bands and DJ are usually quite fun. The menu is quite varied and while I have tried other sandwiches/ apps, etc, I keep going back to the same thing: the Hearty Vegetarian wrap. So good! in a spinach wrap... boursin cheese... artichoke hearts... yum... The nice thing though is that if you see something under the panini choices and you would rather it in a wrap, they'll do it, no problem. Oh, but let me let you in on a little secret: ask about their specialty drink (non-alcoholic). Last year it was a delicious ginger lemonade; this year it's a rooibos iced tea. And oh.my .god is it heavenly! Ask for it and thank me later ;)
(4)Kelly S.
This is one of my favorite places in Salem, which rules as it's just a short walk from my apartment. The food is great, very veg*n friendly, and a great beer list! I generally go for lunch, it just has that relaxing mid-day kind of vibe. I also note the "scene kid" vibe, but whatever. That's something I can easily look over. More importantly, the staff is friendly. This is a great place to meet up with friends or read a book by yourself. Really glad Salem offers a place like this.
(5)G M.
Impressive, we really enjoyed their menu! So many interesting choices! Unfortunately we only had time for lunch before going to our next destination. From outside, it didn't seem like much, but once seated we were impressed with the atmosphere. (However, I don't think we'd enjoy being here for live music night.) It seemed to be an eclectic place where you can have a conversation with lunch, or check your email over coffee. There were even books and board games in the corner. They appeared to have a bar, but I can't say for certain. They have a tiny outdoor seating area, which I imagine is always full! The food was really good. I had a really nice chicken sandwich with apple butter, and my wife was very pleased with her coffee. Also they had bottled soda instead of fountain, for which I applaud them. (Fountain soda tends to be replete with bacteria.) My wife comments that although she liked her sandwich, much of the chicken was fatty and inedible. The waitress was friendly and fairly attentive. Oh! And they had a sticker in their window for Yelp, which is how I discovered this site!
(4)Jessica S.
Great place, great food, great atmosphere! I had a Turkey Club wrap and a Creme Brulee latte, and it was wonderful! My friends all got savory crepes, and they looked so delicious, I'm going to have to go back and get one myself! Too bad I'm not a Salem native, because I'd go here all the time!!
(4)Christopher R.
We are planning on buying a home in Salem soon so have been spending a lot of time there looking at Open Houses and exploring the non tourist areas. We usually eat at Finz or Salem Beer Works when we are in Salem as they are two of our faves. We wanted something quick in the downtown area, that was not too heavy or too expensive. We always park near and walk by Gulu Gulu but decided this time to pop in and try it. The atomosphere is casual (they also have a great outdoor eating area), a little funky and very open. This is the kind of place I could see myself becoming a regular at. Maybe getting lunch, hanging in one of the chairs or couches, with my lap top on thier free WiFi. We started with the Cheese and Meat Coalition!! Chorizo, goat cheese and gouda. I had the Chicken Cordon Bleu Crepe. I was ecstatic that there were some French items on the menu (quite a few actually). This crepe was out of this world good. The flavors were so right on and the crepe was perfectly cooked. I will defintely be coming back here and trying everything on the menu as it all sounds so GOOD!!!
(5)Gina C.
This place was one of the best places I have eaten in a long time. I got the Munich panini and it was probably the best roast beef I have ever had. The service was attentive but not annoyingly present. The atmosphere was really relaxed, it was a younger crowd for the most part but there were a couple of older guys getting some coffee. While I didn't drink, there beer selection was unreal. This place is a must go if you are in the area.
(5)K M.
I love love love this place! They use amazing loose leaf tea and you get your own little teapot. Amazing atmosphere and a comfy couch. Only complaint is the seat yourself rule which leads to a free for all i.e. one couple taking up a table for 6??? Other than that it's adorable
(4)Stumbalina b.
I really wanted to like Gulu Gulu, but my visit was a bust. If not for this review, i'm sure I won't remember the decidely underwhelming sandwich (Lyon Veg) with an unimpressive side dish and truly disappointing service. We left hungry and frustrated. At best, they have an impressive array of beer and they seem to wisely avoid making "witch" puns.
(1)Justin P.
Woohoo, they got it together. Had a trippy DJ spinning some old-school hits as well as just plain old odd electronica, but it adds to the ambiance when you're drinking Absinthe or some Cedar flavored liqueur and eating a bohemian inspired fare. Glad to see they figured out how to hire young people that attend to their customers because with that food and drink selection plus the crazy looking artwork on the walls (in a good way) they can't lose! Back again as a regular, good to see it's being well-handled. Cheers from Boston!
(4)Khunravin H.
Good place to go for lunch. Right in the center of Downtown Salem, right behind "Sabrina, the Witch" statue. For the few times that I've been there, the food, and service has been good. I've actually never been inside the business; rather be outside when weather permits. But yeah when in Salem MA, do try breakfast or lunch here.
(4)Anthony M.
I went to gulu gulu cafe in the hopes of finding a different kind of cafe and after reading the reviews and checking it out myself, I was not disappointed. We went on a dinner and a movie night. (which I want to steal along with a couple other ideas) I do not remember the name of the movie but there was a good crowd and everybody there seemed almost like a family. Strangers were talking to one another and sharing stories and playing games. They have board games to play if you feel the urge to get a game going. I noticed that they have risk so I might have to come by and play some time. The service was great. The server really seemed to like his job and had a great deal of knowledge about the vast variety of unusual beers on tap and in bottle. The owners have done a fantastic job putting a cafe together that makes patrons and employees feel welcome and a place that you can be yourself. I also really liked that the menu was so different from other places, and that on the back under FAQ's it even said to not be afraid to try new things. The food was good, we tried some new stuff which is always fun! Atmosphere was very cool, I love the Christmas lights in the window (something i really need to get back in my place) The only complaints I have is that the grape leaf app. was under seasoned, and they have regular Gouda, not smoked... Smoked is SO much better! I will DEFINITELY go back, I want to check out some different entertainment nights.
(4)Waldo J.
My wife and I went here for lunch recently. I had the red pepper tapenade and a ham and brie crêpe, she had the macaroni and cheese. Both of our meals came with salads. My portions were reasonable, through she was given enough mac and cheese to choke a horse. The wait time was fine, the service friendly, if disorganized. (For example, we were given twice as many napkins and knives as we needed, but no forks.) The food wasn't outstanding, but it wasn't bad. The prices were wholly reasonable. Selection was good, but not suspciously broad. Though I wouldn't return, it's only because I'd like to try other restaurants in the area, not because there was anything wrong with Gulu-Gulu.
(3)Jess M.
I came here to kill some time while visiting Salem. The patio was mobbed, so I grabbed a seat at the bar. I got a house coffee and spinach artichoke dip. They put way too much sugar in my coffee so I asked for a new cup. They gave me a new one, no problem. The coffee was solid and the dip was phenomenal. Your typical spinach artichoke dip has cheese in it, but this one was just spinach and artichoke with cumin. Best spinach artichoke dip I've ever had. The flatbread it was supposed to come with was just plain pita bread but it worked. The only downside to this place is that the bathrooms were not very clean. They reminded me of a club bathroom. So pee before you come here. But definitely go.
(4)Julia N.
I dont live close, I've been here twice and LOVED the sandwhiches I've ordered. The chicken salad wrap is so good, i wanna go there right now and get it I like the atmosphere, very cambridge or seattle :)
(5)Jenna P.
Gah..I love this place. The Gulu has it all--delicious food of all sorts, scrumptious crepes and treats, tons of beer selections, and a spectacular bean. Cannot forget about the comfy environment and the visually appealing decor. If you hit it right, you can also enjoy some live local music which is almost always surprisingly awesome! A must visit when you're in Salem!
(5)Joe B.
UPDATE: Still a fan. I still love the food here and the beer selection is just awesome. I've been going here since the place opened and something that is very consistent is that the wait staff is notoriously slo'oooow. Even when it's not very busy. Sometime they'll completely forget about that round of drinks (just 2-3 drinks... not 20 or anything like that) you ordered 15min ago. Or you'll be given menus and then no follow up for decent amount of time. My favorite is ordering a beer, waiting and then watching the waitress remember... then run over to the bar to place the drink order. Happens a lot. One visit, it happened every single time I ordered a beer. I highly recommend sitting at the bar if you can. Your can order food there too. No service problem there. Other than that... great food, beer and atmosphere. A "must visit" place in Salem.
(4)Anthony S.
They have some really cool crepes, both sweet and savory, but don't dare order one of if you're during their brunch hours - they suddenly are incapable of making something on their menu all other times. Bizarre. Wait staff are pretty airy and don't seem to understand what serving a customer means. There are one or two that get it, but more often than not we get a spaceshot. This is still one of the better menus out there and is a cool place overall. I think I'd have rated it lower if I didn't love the cool art vibe in the bathrooms and throughout the restaurant.
(3)William S.
Best cappuccino ever, and great sandwiches in a relaxed atmosphere with incredibly pleasant staff. The Barcelona (a turkey sandwich) is my favorite and I tend to stick to favorites, so I can't comment on others but would willing to bet they are as good. An endless and interesting beer list, outdoor setting in warm weather, bagels on a Sunday morning: it all makes to living in Salem all the sweeter.
(5)Robyn T.
If you're in the mood for junk food this may not be your place. However, in our eternal quest to treat our bodies better, this is such a great option. Although this place can sometimes be a little too earthy for me, everything I've had here is good. Plus they have a great adult beverage selection! The atmosphere is fun and funky and artistic. They have live music and open mic and everyone just sits where they feel, even if strangers are sharing tables. Most recently I ordered the roast beef and boursin wrap and although I felt it was tasty, it was a little small. I was actually still hungry when I left which is never a great sign. It doesn't really take away from the good experience but I probably won't order it again. This is a go-to place for a lot of people in Salem which makes it a regular spot for me. I always find something I know I'll like, and again, they have a great craft beer and cocktail selection.
(4)Julie Z.
I'll start by saying this restaurant is in a great location and is one of the only late night food options I was able to find on the almighty yelp while visiting Salem. However, nothing really stood out about the food. Got a lackluster spinach and artichoke dip and kielbasa which was not like I'm used to getting at home. I had high hopes for my mac and cheese but when I sat down to pen this review, I had honestly forgotten what I'd ordered and really had to think about it. Nothing bad, nothing spectacular. 3 stars
(3)Mark T.
Location: A very unique spot on downtown salem. Clean, and nicely set up, as if to hang out with friends but without an overly restaurant-y or bar-y feeling. There is also a creative personal touch from the owners that is pleasant but that I cannot accurately describe. However, the tables for two should have a bit more room, and it is hard to fit everything in combination with napkin/utensil holders. Service: It is polite, and friendly, however it can be very slow and inattentive. Although the restaurant was not busy, it took a while for the drinks (Cola and Iced Tea) to arrive, for our order to be taken and prepared. Halfway though my meal, I finished my tea, and the server asked if I would like a refill, I said yes. However, by the time it was brought to me I had already finished eating. I did not eat that fast either. If they had free refills this would not be an issue, but I ended up paying for a refill I barely touched. One final note is this, I asked if it would be possible to get more arugula salad on the side, rather than the server finding out and telling me it is a dollar, it was brought to my table with her stating it's only a dollar. The issue for me is that if I have to pay money, I have a right to decline before being charged. Saying no thanks after the salad has been brought to my table would feel kind of inappropriate. In the server's defense, I asked "is it possible to have more salad?", and not "How much would it cost to have more salad?" Food: I have no issue with the food, it is very good, has both unique and classic combinations, but it is not anything out of this world. The food is pleasant, and paninis are tasty, but again, by its nature it is nothing that could not be done at home with ingredient or a panini press. Oh, and them warming the Cap Cod chips adds a really nice touch. I have yet to try their crepes. Food does take a while, but their kitchen is the size of one in a really nice apartment. Suffice it is say tiny for an apartment. They are also overpriced. $10 of panini seems excessive, but then again, I am not aware of their costs.
(3)Jodi E.
I'm convinced I'll be drinking iced soy mochas until my dying day. This place is now on my radar and when I'm in Salem it just might be my go to coffee stop! So tasty! I snagged a sip of my boyfriends cold brew, which was delicious! We'd never been inside and weren't sure how to order or where to pay but the guy who helped us was friendly & helpful! We took our drinks to go but the atkosphere seems laid back and a place I think I'd enjoy hanging out in longer. Definitely stop in here!
(4)Jessica F.
My boyfriend and I stopped in here for a coffee while traveling. So I can only speak for the coffee. I got a blended iced coffee and it was amazing. This place is eclectic and fun. I also have a Boston terrier so I loved all the doggie tribute artwork.
(5)Anissa Z.
Hummus wraps, meatloaf, brunch and waffles. Everything was awesome. I had the orange and walnut salad with bacon. The meal was light and refreshing
(5)Mike P.
First time here. Very cool very hip vibe in a European style cafe. Interesting rock music in the air. Sat up at the bar and ordered a Far From The Tree Cider which hit the spot. I had the Barcelona Panini for lunch. Loved the crunchy bread and the moist turkey. It was complimented well with the mustard and the cinnamon aftertaste of the apple butter. Crisp potato chips and small garnish field green and Roasted Red pepper salad. Had a Second cider read my book between a girl knitting and a guy on his laptop. A very nice lunch. I expect to become a regular. Kaitlyn was a good bartender...mixing an absinthe drink right in front of me and making me feel like all my choices were the absolute right ones.
(5)Ian G.
Excellent iced coffee drinks, especially the frozen latte. Definitely a local spot. Offers board games and simple food items. Staff is very friendly and welcoming. I'm sure the evening crowd is very fun. This place is definitely worth a visit for any traveler!
(5)A W.
I like this place a lot. I like the food. I like the atmosphere. I like the location. The only thing is that it's can be under staffed. 35 minutes for a sandwich makes me want to just go home and make one myself. They could use one extra waiter too. But I still like this place.
(4)Katherine H.
I love this place. It's part of what makes me love Salem. The atmosphere, the people... But also the food. I have yet to go when there's live music but sandwiches, appetizers, dessert, coffee, brunch, some ginger ale type drink and everything I've tried there in my 4 visits was wonderful. I also love that they are family friendly and are in a great location.
(5)Jesse E.
My wife worked here since they opened. She was the kitchen manger for many years. I have been plenty of times. The staff has always been great, and very down to earth. The food was really good! I recommend the roast beef and Boursin wrap. The crepes and the breakfast sandwiches are very good as well. Tons of beer and wine to choose from at the bar. Overall a great atmosphere, great food and awesome staff. Couldn't be happier.
(5)Arthur R.
We came here on the recommendation from another local business and the yelp reviews and we were not disappointed. I had the chicken cordon blue crepe (the Dijon mustard is spicy) and my wife had the portobello crepe. Excellent! We came for lunch so it was quiet and great for conversation.
(4)Christine H.
I love their drink selection, most especially the liqueurs and wines. Their food portions are somewhat small but everything I have had there, like the cheese plates and the crepes from savory to sweet, have been made with care and good ingredients. By the way, their "adult" coffees/ciders/chais are VERY good. An apple cider with amaretto should be on their menu all year round, and a Bailey's Chai is like heaven in a cup.
(5)Ian N.
A short while back I was rushing to get to work on time and had to skip breakfast. I work downtown, about 100ft from the Gulu, so I figured I'd swing in there after I get settled in at the office and grab a quick breffast sammich and a coffee. In, out, and back in the office in minutes. Done it dozens of times at other places in Salem, why would this be any different? Well, the answer to that is bored hipsters that don't give a sh*t about their jobs. My coffee was ready to roll in less than two minutes. The place was pretty empty, so I picked a good time. No complaints about the barista service. That guy was awesome and the coffee was excellent. HOWEVER, the kitchen was at a crawl. Like a 'fallen and I can't get up' geriatric 80-year old woman crawl. That's fine if you're an 80-year old woman who broke her hip slipping in the tub. If you're a 20-something hipster working in a kitchen of a busy (it wasn't at the time) downtown restaurant, this is not acceptable. I ordered a bacon, egg and cheese on crossaint. The following transpired over the next 20+ minutes as I waited... Cook slowly walked across the kitchen to get a plate Cook slowly walked back to same place to get a knife Cook slowly realized knife was dirty Cook slowly walked back to wash it Cook took 2 minutes to hem, haw, and make exasperated faces about how hard her life is in that kitchen Cook slowly started cooking the egg Cook slowly started cooking the bacon Cook slowly paced back and forth again and looked annoyed about having to do work Owner sat at his table, right next to where I was standing, and looked disinterested in the speed of his staff Barista noticed my annoyed look and kindly inquired about the delivery of my sammich Cook gave barista a dirty look and grumbled that it would be ready soon Barista kindly let me know that it was on its way Time passes... Seasons change... My beard grows to a ZZ Top level of respect... My coffee is long gone... My sandwich arrives. And this is par for the course. I think the Gulu offers a lot of great things - good food, a tremendous revolving beer selection, great coffee, relaxing atmosphere. The concept is great. However, whenever I go there the service is terrible and slow (particularly the wait staff and kitchen)...a trend that carries over to their sister pizzeria next door (another review for another time). While I'm sure my review won't change anything, I hope someone in charge takes notice and hires some decent help, rather than people that look cool. We already get enough of this at Snark Kitchen. There are other establishments around where you can be a funky place, but also knock customer service out of the park.
(2)Harry B.
Food at Gulu is pretty meh. Kind of overpriced for what you get, and nothing stands out as amazing... but they have a kickass beer list. 20ish beers on tap and they're almost always all great. They've got all sorts of crazy stuff on those taps and they're rotating them constantly. Skip the food and grab a drink when there's some live music playing here.
(4)Noha A.
I love love gulu, my university is nearby so I'm always there whenever I get the chance to go. The atmosphere is just as great as the service. They always have great bands playing to the set the mood. I always get a green tea with a Barcelona, which is the best sandwich!!! I recommend this place to all my friends and they always end up loving it just as much as I do!
(5)Alex T.
Great place. Whether hanging out or on a mission for a meal this venue has it. A variety of bottled beer, combined with a home cooked cafe with an espresso bar. I ordered the Nice (Neese) Sandwich and took the recommendation for the plum jam spread. Excellent sandwich served on a home baked toasted bread, layered with apples, brie, and honey ham. Sweet and savory. Great place parked right in the midst of a perfect people watching spot in the town square. You must Try Try Gulu Gulu!!
(4)Tasha L.
Have been here more than 10 times and never getting tired of their foods! Foods are heavenly delicious!
(5)Keira L.
I've been going to Gulu for about 5 years. My go-to is an Iced Andes and Essjay Wrap on wheat. I'm also a fan of the meat &cheese coalition. Sweet crepes (banana strawberry nutella) and the berry nice are VERY good. I bring friends here whenever I can - it's great for vegetarians. Very cool vibe whenever you go in. The morning you'll usually find people working on their laptops. Nighttime is great for live music on weekends and wednesday (open mic). A great place in downtown Salem. Staff is consistently great. My one complaint is the portion size - it's not always consistent and is sometimes very disappointing.
(4)Stephanie M.
I really, truly, absolutely love this place. I loved it when I lived in Salem, and I love it even more now that I live a ways away and have to drive up to Salem just to experience it. My girlfriend and I, during warmer weather and at the very beginning, or very far past October's end, make it a point to come up here at least once a month. We love to sit outside and people watch, or find a corner inside to sulk in for a couple of hours. Upon one trip here, my girlfriend and I met up with my best friend and after chatting for a while we stepped off the patio to have a cigarette. The doorman tried to warn us that we needed to stay close by due to capacity issues but we were clueless. We had to wait in line to get back onto the patio, our drinks calling to us from 5 feet away but we bantered with the doorman and weren't assholes about it like some other patrons. It's not their fault they have a fire code, and I've had some of my favorite places shut down for over occupancy. I generally only order the cheese plate.. because.. cheese. Need I say anymore? Ok.. I will. They have a mustard ale cheese that I have dreams about. The wait staff have always been incredibly friendly with us, but I'm one of those people that actually treats waitstaff with respect and am friendly right back at them. You get what you put out in this world. The beer selection is quite good, and they have my two favorite kinds of wine. Red.. and white. I know, I'm a classy girl that's hard to please. Since we generally sit outside we haven't experienced the live band action, but I could see the appeal for those that like that sort of thing. Overall? It's a really great place to have a good meal, with a lot of different options, a wide variety beer menu, and staff that isn't going to try to get you in and out.
(5)John D.
Well on my second visit this place impressed me. I had the best lunch and cocktail I've ever had here. I ordered the Munich sandwich and Gary Bussi cocktail they were both amazing. I'd love to take a date here sometime.
(4)Mallory T.
I live right on Washington Street in Salem. We have been here numerous times (perhaps each time expecting the food quality to change for the better?) and each time we leave wondering why this place is so popular. Yes, it has a "hipster" vibe, decent service, cheap prices. But the food itself Is so sub-par! Every time we get breakfast, the eggs are scorched and over cooked, the "Belgian waffle" is flat and sad looking, and the crepes are dry. Chicken salad wrap I ordered was filled with rubbery looking chicken and TONS of raw onion. I love raw onion but this was a little ridiculous. Not impressed, will probably not go again.
(2)D D.
Sad to say, they have a horrible breakfast. Nothing gluten free. They ran out of muffins. The creps are made on same skillet and my husband and daughter said their bagels were a weird horrible taste. I ordered eggs and beacon.... The eggs were FAKE!! fake eggs, really??!! why!!! Bty the coffe was either old or burnt. The oj was good...... I wanted it to be 4 stars.
(1)Valerie R.
Absolutely in LOVE with this place. It reminds me of some of the down to earth cafes I used to visit in San Francisco. Great atmosphere, low lull of friendly chatter, gluten free food options, and really pleasant staff. They allow dogs to eat with owners out on the patio, and they have an area for live entertainment, open mic, etc. Choose a comfy leather chair or sit at the bar to eat. The food is a mix of soups, salads, paninis, and desserts. I got the Istanbul panini with subbed gluten free wrap. It had turkey, tomato, fresh mozzarella, and pesto and came warm and toasty. Really happy with our choice to visit here! Wish there was something like it closer to home.
(5)Maddie B.
The service is awesome! The employees are nice, "hipster", unique in their own way, and very genuine. The atmosphere is really nice if you're into a really relaxed vibe. It's more for those who like to relax and a "hipster" scene. The scenery is very peaceful. I have to admit the food is a 3.5 out of a 5 but the atmosphere and the employee makes up for it. I recommend the russel stover coffee for rainy days, s'mores crepes (warning: the center has a lot of nutella), and the barcelona panini. :)
(5)Stacey S.
this place is the Tops! love the atmosphere and the food. great service and love the menu options. the soups are to die for
(5)Lisa M.
Very healthy options and we need more of that around here. The atmosphere is very hip and cool! Great background music, and not too loud! Most people say they return cause is one of good feeling kind of places!
(5)Dave M.
the place was pretty decent but not particularly anything special IMO. we got a brieberry crepe ($8) and the Barcelona panini ($9.25). both were good. the place is pretty big and well maintained. they provide a unique environment in a good way. our waitress never gave me a water refill so i had to ask another worker for that. service wasn't too great. i would recommend this place.
(3)Francesca R.
I went to Gulu Gulu to see my little brother when he was headlining the Open Mic night--John Michael (Saves!) and I really liked it. First of all, it's a big, open cafe with a genuine European vibe. I like that the owners met in Prague at a now defunct cafe by the same name, and they have taken great pains to recreate a real European experience. There are a jumble of tables amidst clever artwork, all of which is conducive to sitting with your coffee and thinking deep thoughts or having great conversations over great beers. To that end, we went with the beer, and just like in Prague, there is a beer menu to serve all palates. My brother and his hipster friends all authoritatively ordered Rogue Dead Guy Ale, presumably just to order the most absurdly titled beer on the menu. Hubs, parents and I went for Krusovice on tap. I prefer Gambrinus and Staropramen Granat, but I'm always delighted when Czech beers are available and Krusovice is a solid entry. For Czech beer it's just OK, but in America it's a revelation. I did not eat when I was here but the website is very helpful on this point. They don't have a kitchen--just some fridges and a stove behind the bar, so the food is simple and meant as more of a complement to the cafe experience as opposed to the reason to go in and of itself. The only thing I would recommend is that they add the delectable honey cake (Medovnik) which is always available in Czech cafes. For one, it would be more authentic, for two, Medovnik is the goddamn bomb diggity of desserts. The service was great. There was a friendly gentlemen letting everyone know that it was bar service only that night. The website also goes to great pains to explain that there are only so many people working there who are bartender, server and cook alike, so not to get too fussed about how long your food is taking. Basically, it's like any cafe in Europe. Sit back and relax. I'm not sure about other nights but the Open Mic night was not too loud (conversations were still possible) and the quality of the music was actually pretty good. My brother is really good, but I was surprised (and relieved) to find the other acts all up to par.
(4)Katie G.
You want a cool place to hang out and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea? How about a funky place to eat lunch with a friend? Perhaps you are looking for a place to lounge while you do your work? If you can answer yes to any of the above, Gulu Gulu Cafe is the spot for you! This eclectic place is located right in downtown Salem. The walls are lined with work from mostly local artists. You can buy them right off the wall! The floor is filled with a mix of small tables, lounge chairs, and couches. Pick your comfort! The food is delicious. I have had their fruit cup with yogurt and it was lovely! I couldn't stop eating it! My friend ordered a crepe that she raved about. In previous trips, I have enjoyed both warm and iced coffee medleys, all of which were quite good. Their sandwiches are also very good. The one thing keeping a 5 star rating is the price. It does seem to be a bit much, but not too much so. Just too much money for what you get in order to receive a 5 star rating.
(4)Mike C.
I started going here when they first opened their doors when i lived in Salem. The first thing i noticed is how fresh everything was. Salad was crisp and green, the sandwiches were made with high quality ingredients and toasted perfectly (if that's how they came) and the beer menu was like none other I've ever seen (literally I've never heard of 95% of these beers). The menu was unique and not too long and included many things you don't see even typically at coffee shop-type places. If you get a chance you'll notice they have healthy offerings as well as comfort foods. Even after several years me and my girlfiend still treat ourselves to this place to enjoy a light brunch/lunch and a coffee. I will admit that during busy times it does take a long time to get your food but if you notice they do make everything fresh and their kitchen area is one of the smallest around, but they do make the best out of what they have which i can appreciate. The only reason it gets less than 5 stars from me is the occasional long wait and the fact that sometimes the music is WAAAAY too loud for me to enjoy a meal/coffee. i recommend this place to anyone passing through who wants a good quality meal at a fair price.
(4)E K.
I always love goint to this place when i'm in town! The atmosphere is great and very laid back. It really does remind me of a Prague cafe. Their drink selections is great, and there is a lot to choose from. The Czech beers and milky way martini's are my favorites. The food crepes are pretty good too.
(4)Todd L.
Nice staff, great regulars, amazing beers, good music, yummy foods. Awesome place to meet up and hang out. The music is hit or miss, but personally that makes it awesome. Give it a shot, I bet you'll be happy.
(5)Chris C.
GuluGUlu has come leaps and bounds since it first opened.... when there were bugs in the window.... hair in the food...awful service.... and excruciating waits for food, regardless of if you were the only person in there. But it has redeemed itself, becoming cleaner and, overall, a pleasant place to be. Two thumbs up for GuluGulu!!!!
(5)R B.
nothing amazing for vegeterians, just drinks that are allright bad service no good parking 'nuff said
(1)Molly W.
Came here with a friend mid-day and had a wonderful time! We had a lot of catching up to do, and the waitress let us take our time ordering, and was very accommodating. They have a great beer selection, and a diverse menu of apps, salads and sammies. It has a coffee house feel, but I could see that it's a bar at night... intriguing! I'll have to come back and experience the nightlife here, but as a lunch spot it was just lovely. It was surprisingly busy for a lunch crowd - a true testament to how popular and successful it is! Obviously I am not alone when I say "Yay! I'm a fan."
(4)Shari Z.
It isn't often that I fall in love with a place and end up going in often. I am way too distracted and non-committal when it comes to food and beverage options. I like to play the gastronomic field. Why settle down when there is so much choice? Gulu Gulu must be 'the one' then. In a short trip I ended up there often. Here's what I love about Gulu Gulu: Ambiance: sweet, calm, but not dead. There is always music playing, there are games you can play, and with two of four walls being mostly windows, you can watch the world go by as you consume your choice of beverage and write that novel you've been threatening. Staff: Super nice, friendly, however some of the staff are too young to drink and can't recommend from the beer selection (extensive!) Food: The menu offers some refreshingly comforting combinations of great bites, for example the macaroni and cheese with a small salad. The portions are perfect and realistic, not Cheesecake Factory over-generous. Drink: The beer, wine, and coffee menu on the large chalkboards behind the bar are impressive. For me, the Belgian beers ruled. The espresso is perfect, and they actually understand what a double espresso is, unlike the local Dunkin Donuts, who actually gave me four cups of espresso when I ordered two double espressos...um..? There is also a calendar of events and entertainment alongside the menus behind the bar so you won't have to sift through piles of fliers to figure out that day/night's entertainment. Try the cheese plate with a Framboise beer when you have just under an hour to kill before you need to hustle over to the commuter rail down the street. Heaven. I Gulu Gulu, and so must you.
(5)Christi F.
Gulu Gulu is my go-to lunch spot in Salem. Just about everything I've had, from the crepes to salads to cheese plate to soup, has been delicious. And the beer menu rocks! Make sure you try one of the many daily beer specials. I've only been here during the day, so I can't comment on the night scene or the live music (though I wish I could!) The daytime atmosphere works for all ages and it's relatively baby-friendly, though I wouldn't bring a toddler for fear of disrupting people working on their laptops.
(4)Brian L.
Meat. Cheese. Bread. On a plate. Best beer list this side of the Wild Horse on the North Shore. Why do people complain about the service? No rush. Where are you going. This is perfect and brings Salem up from being a dump to having ahint of non-Geek Halloween/Touristy culchah!
(5)Jacqui C.
We LOVE Gulu Gulu! Found it by accident and by luck one day as we wandered around downtown Salem. Friends had recommended the place next to it but we wanted to check it out anyway. We've now made it OUR place whenever we go to Salem. What do I love about Gulu Gulu...hmmm. The atmosphere and decor make me think of college students with piercings and late night cramming sessions before Finals. The food makes me think of a great European cafe. So far I've had any number of dishes (their savory crepes are wonderful) but I tend now to stick with the Chicken Cordon Bleu Crepe or the Bagel with Lox. They have great coffees, a very large selection of beers, and I have yet to find a seating area there that was not good. The servers are great, quick and unobtrusive...if you want to stay for hours and nurse a cappuchino you go right ahead...you want to grab a quick sandwich or have a full meal, you bet! Yummy food, funky atmosphere, great staff...what more can a gal ask for?
(5)Suzanne O.
This place is as close to a European bar as you will get on the North Shore, which is why I love it. 1- you can walk there from wherever you are parked in Salem. 2- the wireless is free and you can stay for hours upon hours in comfy seating so long as you have a tab. 3- it is very eclectic, but in a unique, modern, artistic kind of way. 4- the quality of the drinks, beers, and food is amazing. I particularly love the Three Philosophers beer (9.8% abv) and the Meat and Cheese Coalition (choose from three meats and cheeses served with fresh, toasted bread). The crepes are great, too. And the sandwiches. My favorite drinks were the white cloud and white raspberry lattes. If you have not been by the Gulu Gulu, you have to go. Screw Starbucks.
(5)Bill U.
I have added a star for this second review of Gulu Gulu in Salem because the menu now has some solid offerings. I indulged in "The Cheese and Meat Coalition", which for $8 gets a choice of any three items on a select list of fromage and charcuterie (my selection included Chimay Grand Cru and French Boursin, along with dried Chorizo). All this is served with ample toasted bread, and can be rounded out with fantastic bowl of fruit for an extra fee. The coffee and espresso has now been perfected, and my only conundrum is whether to go for an early morning café au lait or a late night beer. Add in the constant rotation of live entertainment and Gulu Gulu is now a centerpiece of Salem!
(4)Chris L.
Stopped in for an early breakfast on Halloween, before the (rest of the) tourists woke up. We each ordered a veggie & fried egg sandwich on ciabatta toast - cheesy and crunchy and not so huge. I had a few cups of great dark coffee, and since the crowds hadn't yet descended en masse, it was nice to have a chance to ramble around the cafe to see all the zombie-themed art on walls. Wish we had a place like this back at home...
(4)Chantal G.
I've been to Gulu Gulu a few times. They have a great selection of beer and different types of cheeses.I love that they have various events planned every night. Definitely a good place for a date or a hangout with friends.
(4)Geoff M.
I went there once, I haven't been back. Gulu Gulu isn't bad by any stretch, but I can't really say it's good either. Good: Extensive Beer list. Excellent, excellent Bruschetta. Istanbul grilled panini is tasty. Bad: Service was very slow and they weren't crowded at all, they all seemed kinda high. Wine list doesn't match the beer list. No sides available. Tiramisu wasn't up to par. I wasn't a huge fan of the ambiance. It almost seemed like they were trying too hard to be cool, but I guess that's a "to each his own" sort of thing. My former roommate seemed to like it, but I think that had a lot to do with one cute waitress and the fact that he is a complete and utter moron, and totally thinks he's that cool and new age, when he's really just a dolt. I would consider going back, if I was in the mood for what they have, but it's been quite a while, and I haven't found my way back. The place has potential.
(2)Ash B.
There are more detailed reviews here, so I will simply add my own details... For me, the pluses are free wi-fi, a large open interior, lots of windows, ok menu, and drinkable coffee (but nothing to write home about). On my second time there, I ordered a sandwich, and the server brought out two saying that they were running out of bread and took the opportunity to finish it off and said I could take the other sandwich if I wanted, which I did (since the first one was pretty good). On the downside, the service (except for that one nice exception) is pretty lousy. The last time, I sat down and could see them look at me but I was not acknowledged and it took them about 10 minutes before anyone even came over. So, do not go here if you are in a hurry. Gulu Gulu is a fine place to just hang out when there is time to kill, but the service certainly leaves something to be desired.
(3)C P.
Gulu Gulu is fun, the staff is great and the atmosphere is usually busy but chill. It can be intimidating walking in because it's seat yourself and usually hard to find a table, but look around and you'll see one mixed in, in my case it always seems to be the last one open. The food is good, it's a pretty light menu consisting mostly of snacks, crepes, wraps and paninis. The crepes are great. The drinks are great, they don't have a full liquor license so they have (an amazing selection of) beer, a kinda blah selection of wine, and creative martinis made out of flavored liquors. They just can't serve "real vodka/rum etc...". For vegetarians it's a decent selection, not the best and for vegans you might want to try some place else. As far as I can remember they have one vegan wrap and I'm sure a salad.
(3)Salvatore P.
We went to Gulu today for breakfast after having been there only for beers before. We decided never to eat there after seeing the state of the kitchen. It is a complete disaster. Dirty and badly organized with stuff everywhere. But today we said we would give it a shot anyway. So we sat far away from the kitchen. Out of sight out of mind! We're glad we ate there. We had the breakfast sandwiches which I easily could have had four of! And the banana peanut butter crepe was awesome. French press coffee was so rich and delicious. My advice to the owner's (if they ever read these) is to overhaul the kitchen and really clean it up. Service is a bit slow and chaotic it seems. But it has a laid back vibe so it wasn't really a problem for us. We dont mind slow service so much anyway since if we are out to eat we are rarely looking to rush in and out of the place. I am a recovering urban hipster so I like the atmosphere there and really like the eclectic music. Iggy Pop at breakfast is definitely my scene!
(3)Gerry L.
Sandwiches are good, salad was fresh. Very casual atmosphere, younger crowd. Seems to be a place where people hang out for a while.
(3)C P.
Sickening customer service and a pretentious atmosphere gets this place a 1 star and if it were possible to give 0 stars i would. I have never been treated so rudely by people who are in a service industry. The holier than thou hipster crowd love this place, pretentious beer selection and pretentious wait staff AVOID AT ALL COSTS. Unless you are a d-bag like everyone who goes to/works here.
(1)Elizabeth B.
What a fantastic place! So much character, I love the art for sale on the wall, the bohemian feel, the unique light menu, the drinks, and the servers are friendly but not corporate fake chain restaurant friendly. I had a glass of white wine and started with the homemade hummus and vegetable platter which is delicious. I then moved onto the portabello mushroom, sun-dried tomato, goat cheese, salad which was good, but next time I will have the dressing on the side. My friend had a beer and enjoyed a turkey pannini which he loved. Gulu Gulu offers live music Thursday thru Saturday nights and possibly more days too? Gulu Gulu is clean, friendly, a great place for lunch, light dinner, coffee or drinks. Kind of reminds me of the coffee shop in the tv show friends. I will be back to check out the live music scene. Great place to meet friends and people watch : )
(3)Chris H.
This is a great eclectic place to get some great food! If you're not into that eclectic feel of a place, then Gulu-Gulu is probably not for you. Their selection of food is not that extensive, but it is all fantastic. They have a large selection of beers, and I have heard from others that the music they occasionally have is great as well. I love this quirky little place, and I will definitely go back many more times!
(4)Kelly G.
GF and I went on a north-shore drive today and ended up lunching at Gulu-Gulu...mostly because of the giant Boston Terrier head painted on the window. The atmosphere is funky. The service is great-- Steven is a peach. The beer selection is broad (including some fun Czech beers). But the food is a little underwhelming. GF felt like her crepe was too soft (almost like it was steamed). I had a chicken caesar...the croutons were inedible...I couldn't chew them...but the salad itself was fine.
(3)Mary D.
It was a bit crowded around lunch time - but it was worth the short wait for a table. The beer menu was wide and the food was good. I really liked the raspberry strong ale. The service was friendly and I loved the dog paintings.
(4)Jesse E.
This place is great! I haven't tried their food, but the Gulu Gulu cafe is just a really cool place. They serve coffee drinks and a wide array of alcoholic beverages.. All from a bar. They also have wait service and live music. This is a great place to see some local bands and an even better place for bands who want exposure. The atmosphere is great. I haven't tried their food, but I doubt that would change my opinion. This place is the perfect hangout.. Probably the coolest place to hang out in Salem.
(4)Ryan D.
The atmosphere in Gulu is impossible to beat. It is an excellent spot to hang out with a fantastic beer selection either at lunch or the evening. The place is relatively small, but you can usually grab a spot to sit. The combination of layout and size really add to the feeling in there. Fantastic breakfast crepes are a highlight for breakfast. And you can't beat the appetizer list [cheese and meat coalition for example, grape leaves, humus]. One of my favorite spots as a Salem resident to grab a spot and hang out with a good beer and excellent music...
(5)Jeremy H.
if you like hipsters, good food and lotts of people this place is for you
(3)Jennifer S.
I am a fan. I come here a couple of times a month. I love checking out the latest art work and actually picked up a beautiful piece of art a few months back. This is really not the type of place you go to when you are in a rush and want a quick lunch. It has a laid back attitude and chill environment. Servers are not jumping to come wait on you, but get to you in a reasonable amount of time. If you are into micro brew beer you absolutely have to check this place out. They have one of the largest, most unique beer selections I have ever come across. I have been here at night and during the day. It is definitely a hipster bar, but a friendly one. Their cheese platter is good, the hummus is tasty and overall nice light food selection. Stuff your hamburger loving husband would probably not be into, but your vegetarian friend will swoon over. I come here on occasions for lunch when I work from home and need to clear my mind. they have excellent wi fi. overall I like it
(4)Alexander H.
This place was a nice little surprise. We ordered a turkey sandwich and a veggie wrap and both of us enjoyed the food thoroughly. The wait staff was efficient and very friendly, and seemed to be genuinely happy to be working there. The deserts -- I had a fruit smoothie and my friend had a freshly baked scone -- were absolutely delicious. A couple of days later, we found ourselves back in that neighborhood and made the mistake of trying the place next door, the Upper Crust. We were so disappointed that we immediately went back next door to the Gulu Gulu Cafe and again enjoyed their delicious deserts and friendly wait staff, which successfully took the Upper Crusty taste out of our mouths (both literally and figuratively). Definitely worth a return trip!
(4)Raithaa Z.
I'm in love. Seriously. Where else can you go for breakfast to get a plate of manchego cheese and chorizo (just one possible combination you can create when you order a delightfully named "Meat and Cheese Coalition"), even when your unadventurous dining companion just wants a bowl of Fruit Loops? Gulu Gulu Cafe is the best of all worlds when it comes to having a little bite or a cup of coffee by day, or a pint of beer or glass of wine by night. OR day. Whatever. I dig the funky atmosphere, the central location, and great, eclectic menu. And yes, a fantastic beer and wine selection, too. Living in Cambridge, I'd like to think I have a good amount of exposure to a wide spectrum of bars/restaurants, and Gulu Gulu ranks at the top. Worth the hike to the North Shore at least once every month or two. My only critique is the slight dinginess about the place. Honestly, I wish I could give Gulu Gulu a good overnight scrubdown. I realize that a place like this, which has both a day and a night life, can be tough to maintain spotlessly, but its mildly manky quality is the only thing preventing me from giving Gulu Gulu the full five stars. But whatever, if I'm in Salem and feeling a touch peckish, I can count on Gulu Gulu to give me something yummy to nosh on, and some cute puppies to look at.
(4)Lisa C.
This is a fun place..lots of live music and really yummy coffee drinks. If you're in the mood for a beer, the selection is AWESOME!! I haven't tried the food, so I can't comment on that.
(4)Cara Z.
If you're an art, music, or theatre student at the nearby Salem State University, you're pretty much expected to know of this place. It's hard to walk in and not know anyone in there for me. Amazing food selection, very quirky and unexpected. I absolutely love the Mac n' Cheese here, its very different and yet so, so delicious! One visit I went in, I asked for the remnants to be wrapped up... the waitress came out and told me that the kitchen had thrown it out... but she had them make me some fresh and hot! THAT is a great example of amazing customer service! The drink selection is also amazing, I have yet to try any of the alcoholic drinks here, but the list seems very impressive. Now, why I gave it four stars... the simple fact is, it can get EXTREMELY crowded in here. While I love it, if the place is packed, I cannot go in, and it always breaks my heart. Keep it up Gulu, you've won me over!
(4)Jon H.
This is one of those places you give three tries because you keep telling yourself it has to work, and you really want to support it. I could probably get over the mediocre service, because it is pretty mediocre. But for a place that brands itself as a unique, independent cafe, their food manages to be more bland than Panera. The salads taste like someone bought a Doll mixed green bag from Crosby's and put a few drops of dressing on it. And the sandwiches feel, well, inept. It's a funny coincidence that this place and Upper Crust are both next to each other. They both seem to cater to people who go out to eat because they identify with the theme of the restaurant rather than, you know, the actual food. As for an alternative, if you don't mind the drive check out the Daily Harvest Cafe in Danvers if you're looking for a good sandwich or salad.
(2)Timothy A.
Great evening spot with unique beers you've never tasted. We heard the Squeezebox Stompers, one of the best North Shore bands. Night club with breakfast.
(4)Jen M.
Gulu is one of my favorite places in Salem. Now that I'm often towing along a baby when I'm out, it's retained favorite status by being kid-friendly (really all I need for that is 1) being cool with the kids being there, and 2) a decent sized bathroom that's clean enough for me to change a diaper and nurse a baby). The beer selection is excellent, and while I've been not drinking I've really enjoyed their smoothies and their ridiculously good hot cocoa. The sandwiches and salads are fantastic (try the Barcelona!).
(5)Missus F.
smores crepe. trust me. awesome awesome crepes and salads. the actual crepe has a good, not bland flavor. gulu is great for weeknight meet ups with pals to catch up. it's a really cool atmosphere. check it.
(4)Wyatt B.
Best coffee I have in a long time. Seating was a little interesting walking in, but service was great and the coffee! Worth the trip.
(5)chris r.
My fiance and I visited Gulu on a recent October Saturday afternoon. The restaurant was relatively busy (very few empty tables by about 1PM) but we found a table without a problem. We were prompty approached by the waitress and our drink orders taken. They have a wide variety of beers and a decently sized wine list, along with a specialty range of sodas and diet coke. I went for the Cisco Whale's Tale Pale Ale and the future hubby got their version of coke (which tasted like any generic cola). After surveying the menu we both chose the meat and cheese plate, which allows you to choose 3 items from the large cheese menu and limited cured meat menu. Your selections are served with plenty of hot, toasted bread and a small bed of greens. Overall, this was plenty of food for me, but my fiance was ready for a sandwich about 3 hours later. I was happy with our lunch and the very reasonable price. I will note, however, that what appears to be a revolving art collection featured modern paintings of naked women, which may provide an endless source of entertainment should you decide to bring your 13 y.o. sons along. Most of the children in the restaurant were the infants of 30-something parents.
(4)Kat H.
This place saved me on the day I had jury duty. We got a long break and were told to go explore, eat, drink & be merry before facing the guillotine of being called...so I wandered a bit, poked my head in here and there, and finally ended up at Gulu Gulu. I was the only person in there, so after perusing their lengthy menu (though rather scant on breakfast...they have bagels, muffins and crepes) got a white chocolate latte and toasted bagel. The wait staff (two gals) were awesome--chatty, friendly, and I wouldn't have minded staying there all day. They've got the inside set up very nicely...a couch or two, some big comfy chairs, coffee tables and regular tables of all sizes and shapes...a mix-matched art-house wonder. The local art on the way actually tempted me to buy some too, a very rare occurrence, I'm sorry to say. And yes, the plain bagel was great, the latte just right with TONS of foam. Am certainly planning to go back for a panini or light dinner sometime. They do have wi-fi, but didn't notice if paying is necessary...if I remember right, it's free with purchase, but don't quote me on that. And that was exactly what I needed on the hell-day of jury duty; so if any of you get summoned to the Salem Court House, I highly recommend you spend some time here.
(4)Meghan M.
How can I even describe Gulu Gulu Cafe in words? Some of the words would be synonyms with incredible. At first I was completely in love with their gigantic chalkboard menu, and the entire layout of the place. The place has this very laid back, hip vibe. The atmosphere was great. Now, for the wrap. Oh-- that beloved wrap. My Hearty Vegetarian wrap, was phenomenal. I was a bit skeptical when ordering it at first. But, it was out of this world good. When I had finished eating this glorious wrap, the very nice waitress came over and gave us our check. At the bottom of our total was: "Keep Smiling! May The Force Be With You!".
(5)Shawn B.
TBGT is a fav for lunch.
(4)Thomas J.
I've been here a few times with friends, mainly for drinks. They have an interesting drink selection that includes absinthe, their prices are what you'd expect and seating is pretty good. They're located right in the center of town, not hard to miss, and have a big staff. Nothing about this place is amazing or great though, just eh. You can come and go and never be left with a good or bad impression. If you find yourself in Salem and want a quick lunch or drink, go for it, but I'd never plan to go here.
(3)DeeJay H.
This place is the cutest coffee shop under the sun. Great decor, live music, friendly staff and the tastiest sandwiches money can buy. I just enjoyed one of their lovely wraps- roast beef and boisin- served with a fresh salad and chips...it was a lot of bang for a small buck (and in this economy...blah blah blah). They had all sorts of yummy beverages/italian sodas/etc. Can't wait to try it again!
(4)E S.
I'm gonna go ahead and change my mind about this place. I've ended up back there a few times and while I still can't rave about the food, the service has improved and I appreciate what they add to downtown Salem. It is a very comfortable place to see some live music and there's always some good local art on the walls.
(4)John P.
Great place to eat, have a great cup of coffee and utilize the free Internet access.
(5)Erin W.
Food's reasonably good. Great beer list! The service tends to be a little slow, so if you're trying to get in and out, then it might not be a great fit. But, if you're looking for a middle-of-the-day place to hang with your laptop.... there's no better place in Salem. Nice to sit outside in sunny weather. (The Apple and Brie Crepe is yummy.)
(4)frank p.
ok albeit all i had was a smoothie there this is definetely worth coming back for.. after all, its a cafe and i want a good drink got the banana smoothie.. not only is it dairy free (which is a plus cuz im lactose intolerant) it was thick, creamy and soooo rich.. mmmmmm im definetely going back again, even if its just for the drinks. i was impressed!
(4)Fiona T.
Lunch on a weekday afternoon -- the place was pretty empty as we arrived after the lunch peak period. I had the turkey panino and my friend had the portobello spinach crepe, both were yummy, especially my sandwich. The waitress was really forthcoming with recommendations. We sat on the patio, and it was really nice.
(5)Lucien D.
An independent coffee bar in Salem. It has a little bit of everything including a nice selection of drinks. If you go in the daytime it's a nice coffee cafe if you go at night it gets to be more of a bar-like atmosphere. Great place to people watch.
(4)Amber L.
I love the laid back atmosphere of Gulu-Gulu and the food. The wait time, however, is not so nice. It can take forever to get your food, check, or even for the waitstaff to initially come to your table! I've come here at all different hours and during varying times of business; the long wait never seems to change. On the plus side I enjoy their drink selection -- alcoholic and non-alcoholic and their cheese plate is amazing and VERY filling. The minus two stars really is only because of the wait so if you do not mind a long wait then you will absolutely love this place.
(3)Alyssa N.
Trekked up to Salem to see a friend of mine DJ here. Much bigger than the Lynn cafe. Staff was a little spacey. One staffer told me the kitchen was closed not long after another staffer served J the dessert crepes he'd ordered. In the end (and after some confusion), I got my traditional Czech crepes, which delighted me very much. These light crepes with a sweet/tart plum filling are a wonderful treat. Good wine/beer list, including some sort of Belgian Kriek that I really like. And have I mentioned the fantastic chocolate chip cookies? Stays open late (especially for Salem?), which is always a good thing, since it's way more chill than a (traditional) bar.
(3)Ashley L.
Just moved to Salem and Gula Gula is already one of my favorite places. Although I should preface this with... I've only seated myself at the bar so I can't rate the table service. I've been to get work done on my laptop and to have some drinks with friends. The beer is good (although it would be nice to see some lower priced drafts and bottles on the menu), the selection is good and I ordered a sandwich and thought it was pretty awesome. For $7.50 I got a delicious grilled panini (the Istanbul), chips and some greens. Not too shabby considering the sandwich shop down the street charges more than that for just the sandwich. LOVE the atmosphere. Friday night wasn't super packed and the people watching is great. You'll find all types of people here and the wait staff seems to know a lot of them and are super friendly. The live music wasn't spectacular but I've only heard it once so I'm not sure that i can really judge. All in all, decent food prices, very laid back and chill atmosphere and some incredible people watching. Would definitely recommend checking this place out.
(4)Allison C.
Highly recommend for breakfast and lunch. Their loose leaf tea is divine as are the breakfast sandwiches, muffins, and wraps. Evening entertainment varies. You must wait in line and order your food at the bar, this place fills up quickly, so you may have a long wait. Sometimes entertainment on open mike night is so bad it's painful.
(4)Walleyecrue W.
Good brew selection- tea, coffee or beer. The ham crepe is a tasty treat after a few hours @ PEM.
(4)Sarah C.
i have only been here once, however was blown away by one sandwich, that i have to return. i can't recall the name of the sandwich, but it had turkey, pesto, and a lot more garlic. i am a huge fan of garlic. it came with a side of chips, and they have a nice beer selection. i love how they have cereal you can order. the staff seems very friendly, and they play good music here. it seems like a great place to go with friends and have a nice, laid back time. they have some doors outside too which is nice for the spring or fall.
(4)Jared R.
Interesting menu choices. Food was ok. Lots of beer choices... just be sure to keep an eye on your server. I saw her once for my order and once for my check... I would have liked a few more glasses of water considering the extremely salty food choices I made. The service really knocks 2 stars off my review. Will try again as I always try to look for the best.
(2)Michael W.
This has to be a short review , but... Cheese Platter can feed 2, great beer selection, SOUPS! STEWS! Friendly atmosphere. Play Bananagrams on Sunday, Last Sunday of the month DRAG KING AND QUEEN show. Great place.
(4)George A.
This place is my shiz-nit. If you want a nice relaxing night with coffee's, imported beers and wines you should skip Boston and come here.
(5)Jackie T.
I dropped by the cafe since I had a few hours to wait before meeting up with friends. I didn't expect the food to be so delicious! Great wine list too. A DJ came in during the meal and started jamming. The music was not obtrusive. If I lived in Salem I'd make this place a regular hang out. A hidden gem!
(4)Michael M.
Service is sometimes spotty, but everyone is friendly and aims to please. The beer selection is really great. It's the place to go for lunch with friends in downtown or to rest and relax after a day of ghost hunting in Salem. I really like that for the panini you can mix and match ingredients and combos from the other sandwiches and make your own thing.
(4)Jacqueline D.
Every time I go to Gulu-Gulu, I wonder why I keep coming back. The service is not good. Like, at all. I wanted lunch on their patio during the week, and there is a sign outside saying to see a server inside for seating, but then inside, there is no one to greet you, and a sign stating that you should seat yourself. So, confusion. I ended up seating myself outside and had to wait at least 10 minutes before someone came over to offer me a menu. Meanwhile, another waitress had walked by me mulitple times without even saying she'd send my server over. Once my server came, things moved more quickly...this time. I've been in 5 or 6 times since the place opened and have always had a problem with service on some level. It is certainly not a place to go for a in-and-out eating experience. I wasn't crunched for time this week, but still not pleased with the lack of expedient service; while there, I also heard another customer complain about the slow service. That being said, the food is good. I had Roast Beef and Boursin wrap, which was actually quite stellar, and I've also had some of their crepes. Now, throw a crepe in front of me, and I'm a happy little girl, so maybe my judgement is off, but the Apple and Brie crepe is Meg-Ryan-in-a-restaurant worthy, if you will. All the food is a tad on the expensive side, too. Over all, I'll probably go back to Gulu-Gulu, and wonder why I do, until I get my food. I'll just leave plenty of time to have a drawn out dining experience.
(3)Anne D.
The beer menu is huge and varied... high quality stuff and I'd give the selection 5 stars. The food is pretty good as well. We've tried several different things off the menu and have been pleased with the price and the quality of all of it. What keeps it from getting more stars is that it is SO loud on a weekend night. Obviously, bars are supposed to be loud on a weekend but you literally can't carry on a conversation, even at the top of your lungs. And live music... meh. Sometimes bands are good, sometimes there's a reason they're playing a place that doesn't charge you to listen.
(3)F S.
Funky place, creative atmosphere. "Ok" food. I had a crepe with turkey and feta. It was dry inside; one side of the crepe was filled with meat and the other-- with some feta and olives, so after eating just plain meet I ended with cheese... My friends ordered sweet crepes and liked them better. Coffee is good, but the tea selection could be richer. The service is just ...'different', and I don't mean it in a good way. I am not sure if they care more about themselves or the customers. Our case was pretty comic. We had a waiter constantly going around our table and openly showing her attractiveness to our husbands. At first it was funny, but after a good half an hour it started to be really annoying for the girls and uncomfortable for men. The ideology of the place, including the artwork on the walls, interior design, free Internet, the music they play is cute and one might find it enough to go back.
(2)Jen K.
I dont know, I just love this place! It has nice, high celings and is on a cute, centrally located corner in Salem and you can gaze out the windows at the beautifully lit trees and historic buildings/streets. Its very comfortable in here. There are mismatched couches, chairs, etc. Alot of people on laptops. They have board games you can play. Food is eceltic (sp?). Mostly salads and sandwiches but you can also get things like crepes, hummus and beer and cheese pairings. They have open mic nights, movie nights, lots of local talent. Great place to kick back with your friends, very laid back. Of course the star of the place and my favorite thing about it is the BEER! They have enormous chalkboards of all the beers and menus with descriptions of them. They are constantly changing the beers. I have found so many great, obscure beers this way. I am a beer snob so I really appreciate their variety. Just a nice place and Im glad they're in Salem
(4)Stephanie D.
I first fell in love with Ommegang beer here. I love this place. Paninis are delicious, waitstaff is attentive and friendly but never annoying. Other people in the place are interesting and easy to talk to. I would feel very comfortable hanging out here by myself. I haven't been to the live music or here for dinner, but particularly enjoy Gulu during off-hours, like at 4 o'clock in the afternoon. (I shouldn't even be saying that for fear it would get more crowded at that time.) Highly recommend and am sorry the Lynn location closed.
(5)Abraham D.
Let me preface this by saying that I have been here no less than 7 times, and my first few experiences were more in the line of 4 stars. On my last three trips the experience was not nearly as favorable. Instead of posting my gripe publicly, I sent an email to Gulu Gulu that I perceived to be constructive and well thought out. It has been about a month and they did not acknowledge my email, which leads me to believe that they have no interest in improving or acknowledging their short comings. The food here is good. Nothing amazing, but certainly tastes good and there are enough options to keep lunch interesting or to grab an appetizer before dinner. The service has always been great. It is a laid back cafe and I do not expect super quick formal service. Everyone that has waited on me has been friendly and eager to assist when something is amiss. Since I go here for the beer, I have no choice but give 2 stars. Sure they have a nice selection but the quality of their taps is questionable. On three separate occasions I was served poor quality draft beer. The first time the beer was flat, and tasted a bit old. It may have been that they had not run the tap for that particular beer but either way it was a let down. The second time they served me a beer chock full of white chunks. I assume this was related to a keg conditioned ale but either way it way it was at an unacceptable level. The third time they served me a beer that was not only warm but it lacked any carbonation whatsoever. It was tepid and totally undrinkable. Do they clean the lines, do they run the lines before the shift, are they keeping old beer on lines? It is hard to say, but my guess is that in an effort to offer some different beers they have forgotten that regardless of having a nice name like Unearthly, if it is not taken care of and served properly it makes a great beer become undrinkable. Thank you to the Owner for a very nice response! I will return soon and hope to improve my rating upon my next visit.
(2)Randie F.
The first time I went here I was really impressed, but I think I just must have been really hungry because I never felt that way again. Overall, the food's ok, but not great. One time my panini was so overtoasted, the bread was hard as a rock. Another time they messed up my crepe order. Maybe if I was a drinker I'd like this place more, but...I think it's also pretty sucky that they closed their Lynn location as soon as the Salem one started to take off. Salem has enough trendy, restaurants. It was really something special for Lynn.
(3)Freddie C.
pretty cool place. kind of messy and unorganized. no hostess or bus staff it appeared, even though it was a busy friday afternoon on halloween weekend.. a couple dirty tables were available to sit at but we didnt want to be those people so we sat at the bar. we an app called the " utopenec" that was cold sausages (links) cut in half just sitting in some pickle juice with peperocini's with toast points on the side...really lame! then we each had a panini and split them. the " palermo " which was some italian meats and provolone and the " die berliner" which was black forest ham sauerkraut, red onion and dijon. both paninis were excellent...but everything else was very mediocre.. also the menus were dirty, they were out of the first 3 beers we requested and service was nice but very very slow...would probably give gulu gulu cafe another try
(3)Shelby M.
The absolute worst service this side of the Mississippi. I've been here a bunch of times - great beer selection and food, but seriously, the WORST service ever. You'll be seated, wait 15 minutes for a bitchy waitress to leave you with a menu, then wait another 20 minutes for her to take your order. Meanwhile, she'll plop herself at the bar and chat with friends while you watch your food sit on the counter and get cold. Go for the atmosphere and beer selection, but if you get a table, get up and take a walk to the bar...don't even bother waiting for someone to take your order.
(2)Ellen M.
I've been to Gulu-Gulu a couple of times and thought it fun, but had a strange experience there this week. I went into Gulu to get a cup of coffee and was looking at the menu and noticed that the "coffee of the day" was a dark roast coffee. I don't like dark roast coffee and asked if they had mocha coffee or another light roast available. The waitress said they didn't have any other coffee but the dark roast. I told her that I didn't like dark roast coffee and she said I should try it, I again told her I had that particular coffee and didn't like it. She kind of started to have attitude, didn't ask me if I wanted anything else instead.... but stood there. I decided to leave, and I won't be back. Its rather silly to have an establishment that is supposed to be a cafe and only offers one type of coffee, but the larger issue to me was the waitress who was really inept at her job.
(1)ChianWen T.
I was at Gulu2 Cafe from 9am to 5pm for most of December '07. I worked on my resume there. I had phone interviews there. I tried to sell my soul to the corporate world there. I received news of a job offer there. I even punched a friend who had traveled hundreds and hundreds of miles through one of the worst storms just to see me there. Well, I was too excited over the prospect of being employed! All that was true. I thank Gulu2 for allowing me to abuse their wifi. I thank them for their yummy panini sandwiches and warm tea. I thank them for providing a relaxing space for my job-search. There is live music or one thing or another there most evenings. It's a funky atmosphere (by that I don't mean that it's stinky in anyway). Good place for a drink and people-watch (lots of interesting characters).
(4)eliza b.
Updated! Like Frank B, I really wanted to love this place. I liked the coffeehouse+ concept as a native NY'r, MA doesn't have enough of them. My first visit and thoughts --the menu was varied, salad was fresh, sandwiches were unique and delish, good prices, nice to have a place to go to with WiFi access. Each night they have something going on, a very decent place to meet friends. Only issue was service, slow to take order, slow to bring the food, didn't ask if I wanted anything else...or the check! Even when I asked the server about dessert, she gave me the menu and never came back to take the order. Thank you from saving me from the calories ;). I am a fan and would recommend to others and will be back. If you go as group (10+) call ahead and see if they can accommodate. Shout out to Steve for reaching out about the service, kudos to you & an extra STAR!
(4)Bridget D.
This place is quality, as my dear friend Scotty would say. They have tasty coffee concoctions like the russel stover with coconut and chocolate syrups. It is like drinking a warm candy bar. My little sister enjoys the local brews, like the Wachusett Blueberry. You can partake in the yummy appetizers like the three cheese plate with marinated brie or the interesting crepes with blue cheese, walnuts, and apples. I want the painting on the wall that looks like a pack of topps garbage pail kids trading cards! SWEET! But, by far one of the best aspects of the Gulu Gulu in Salem is the local live music. I recently saw Radio Scotvoid and the Curios Allstars. A funky collective of talented musicians led by an amazingly talented DJ and his magical computer. They had a solid jam that flowed so well. I made a new friend in Walnut Da Lyrical Genie who performed some sweet ryhymes. If you happen to be in the Salem area, check them out on May 2. There is also a big screen that shows films in the background behind the bands. One time there was a very strange birthing video. I saw placenta and I was mildly scarred. The Gulu has a good vibe, yummy food and beverages, and is a chill place to hang out with your companions and hear unique music.
(5)Topher D.
Haven't eaten there, so can't comment on that - but what a wide array of beers/drinks, and godo service - only complaint is it gets super loud when bands are on, but I guess thats the point of bands playing isn't it? Definitely a great place to finish the night at
(4)Nick D.
My first experience with this place was using it for internet when I first moved to Salem because Comcast sucks at life. It's right down the street from me so I'm there at least once a week. Their specialty coffees are awesome and priced reasonably and the ever-changing art on the walls keeps my little mind amused. The indy-kid-tattoo-crazy staff is always helpful and in a good mood from my experience. The music on the weekends is a good change but they could benefit from turning the speakers down from "eardrum rupture" to something that would allow you to have a conversation with the person next to you without screaming. You can't leave this place without trying the crepes....mmm...crepes.....
(4)Matthias J.
My wife and I went to the Peabody Essex Museum on Sunday. Since PEM opens at 10:00 am, we decided to have breakfast at Gulu-Gulu first. When we got there at 9:30 am, there was parking on the street right in front of the restaurant and plenty of available tables. By the time we returned from PEM ~11:30, things were much busier. The food was excellent, moderately priced and the place has a nice atmosphere. My wife ordered a cappuccino and a sandwich from the lunch menu and I had a breakfast sandwich on a fresh baked croissant and a Nutella-banana crepe. The crepe was huge and I almost regretted having ordered both items (only until I tasted them). It was a bit too early for beer, but there were a few on the blackboard that made me wish it was later in the day. The great thing is, you can leave the car there and walk less than 10 minutes through the pedestrian zone to the museum. What a find! We'll certainly be back.
(5)Danielle B.
Nice relaxed atmosphere, had a Eden Crepe which had almonds, honey and apples and it was tasty and came pretty quick. I would have given them 5 stars but i ordered a cappucino & got a latte, really though, who cares, its a nice addition to downtown Salem. They have a great beer selection and wine list which i'd like to come back for somet night soon.
(4)lee p.
Gulu Gulu is my favorite place for lunch on the North Shore. Especially when it's warm out and you can sit outside and have an iced latte! The service is a bit slow, but it's a great place to people watch the tourists, esp. around that stupid Elizabeth Montgomery statue. I love their bagels and lox plate, their hummus is good, and they make a dangerously good iced latte.
(4)Anna B.
If I could give 10 stars I would. Amazing food, excellent location, and perfect service. I highly recommend their meat and cheese plate - the marinated brie is delectable. Also, the coffee selection is top notch. Sarah Jean was a friendly and attentive server. Definitely coming back.
(5)Joanne H.
Just returned home from a visit to Salem. Gulu gulu is wonderful. We were traveling for the first time with our 8 month old puppy. That Meant at we are able to eat in their outdoor dining area. We had lunch there and the food was fresh and great. They made us and our pup feel welcome!
(5)Hungry C.
We had some wine and hummus. Meh. Not really our kind of scene. We did buy a Bataclan painting though, and that was nice.
(2)Sara S.
I have very mixed feelings about this place. I absolutely love the fun atmosphere, and the food and drinks are great. However, the service is pretty bad, and that's coming from someone who's not high-maintenance about restaurant service. We went in on a Saturday night. There appeared to be 2 waitresses on. For the entire place. My boyfriend went up to one of them to ask about a table, and was told under no uncertain terms that it was "seat yourself". We stood for about 5-10 minutes, then grabbed the first available table. 20 minutes later, we were still staring at the dirty glasses left by the table's previous occupants. No menus, no "hello", no "sorry, we're understaffed and will be with you soon." We finally left. It was a huge disappointment, and at the end of it, we were still hungry and thirsty. And grumpy.
(2)Ben L.
I went there without much for expectations but I had heard good things about their other location. Inside it is quite nice with some good local art up on the walls. Oddly it seemed like they got a bit of light inside despite the overcast sky outside and in a way it detracted from my cafe mentality of the place. Their menu was rather eclectic and tough they seemed to have a couple of decent options I would have liked to see a bit more. Part of it may just be my aversion to mustard and pressed sandwiches. I ended up getting a Munich. It fit the bill for the moment but was partially ruined because they got a bit aggressive with the vinaigrette for the side salad so it decided to divide and conquer, part of the bread on my sandwich. They did gain back a bit of redemption by having a good solid cup of coffee and though neither service nor pricing were spectacular bothy somehow seemed to fit the bill.
(4)Chelsea B.
This place is a blast and a half. I love posting about pubs, so I guess this would count, but it's also so much more! DELICIOUS menu of interesting Czech-inspired food (but also very American-friendly options). Savory crepes are just to die for. The music is interesting (if not always good; sorry, but open-mic is all about variety...), the atmosphere upbeat, funky; the interior fantastically quirky and fun. It just makes you feel good to be here on a Sunday morning or for an early dinner. My one caveat is that service here can be incredibly slow, and inexplicably so. I've sat here on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon with not many other diners and walked out again because no one came to wait on me. Weird.
(4)Katie P.
Whatever Cola they serve is really good. It comes in a bottle and they give you ice. Really yummy stuff. Off to a good start. I've been here several times for lunch. I live and die for plates of meat and cheese. They have it. I went today with my friend Gabbie. I had a feeling she'd love it. We got a cheese and meat plate that was yummy. We Spanish Themed it and got Chorizo, Manchengo Cheese and Goat chesee, to spread on the bread. The goat cheese used was amazing. YUM! Then we had crepes. Mine was Chicken Cordon Bleu. Not only did it have ham, the added addition of bacon surprised me. How did the crepe maker KNOW i LOVED bacon???? Bacon was not a listed ingredient. YUM!!!!! It needed a slight bit more of the mustard and cheese tho, but I still ate every last bite. Gab-arific had a portabello, spinach and feta crepe that she devoured. It looked and smelled really good. My only slight complaint is that my creme Brulee latte coulda had more syrup in it, it needed more sweet flavor. Maybe cuz it was iced, and before I've had it and it was hot. Oh well, next time I'll add sugah. The atmosphere is funky and fun, it's a cool afternoon for lunch with a friend. There's always interesting people around to observe. I like that in a place.
(4)Tracey N.
Very cool space, with well-chosen Belgian beers and wifi all in a convenient location. Stopped in with a friend and our kids for tea/coffee & snacks. The brownie was good but small, the cookie was big but stale, and all the choclate sauce drizzled on top just made everything messy. Luckily they were showing old Spiderman cartoons (the kind I watched as a kid!) which helped distract the kiddos because they brought out the food and took ages to bring out drinks. The shift change was blamed, but it overall seems like a loungey, hang-out-all-day so why rush kind of spot. Maybe it's not the best to bring a pair of preschoolers riding high on sugar, but otherwise kids are alright here. I'd definitely give it another try.
(3)Sarah L.
I have been to this restaurant a few times and really enjoyed it. The atmosphere and food are very unique and interesting. I tried the cheese & meat coalition and loved it. I would definitely recommend this place to my friends!
(4)Fortuna F.
great vibe here and good eats and an amazing beer selection. food recs: chocolate banana crepes banana bread
(5)Alicia D.
Hooray, now open in Salem. See my Lynn review.
(4)Christine R.
While looking for a place in Salem with vegetarian options, I stumbled on this place. The menu looked good so my bf and I checked it out recently. I had the hearty vegetarian wrap. I was very pleased with the sandwich and my bf liked his as well. Our complaint was the service though. There was one waitress on a busy Saturday. She didn't take our special requests in and took forever to serve us. However the good food made up for it.
(4)PuppyCat K.
Great place. Friendly service, wifi. I had the cheese plate - very yummy. Good place to sit after wandering around the town.
(4)T. M.
I love Gulu Gulu. Great atmosphere, great beer, great crepes. They also have some very delicious bagels with the fluffiest of cream cheese at breakfast time! This is the sort of place you go to because you want to read a book, look at art, or maybe see some live music (or even a great Modern Millie fashion show!). This is NOT the sort of place you go to if you are in a rush. So if you are going to complain about service you really need to relax your sphincter. The staff here are a lovely group of people who are always friendly. True it is not the speediest service ever, but they don't deserve to get slammed about it since they are not working at McDonald's. The staff makes me feel relaxed, unhurried, and welcome. I also like walking in the door and running into a staff member who not only remembers me, but also remembers what I like to order. THAT to me is service. Hooray to Gulu bringing a bit of style and yumminess to Salem!
(5)Erik P.
Another place i wish i liked more. I love the beer. I love sitting outside and having a beer off said beer list. I just wish the food wasn't so mediocre. Nothing is awful but most of it is not really worth eating. The most i will get is a cheese and meat platter and even that leaves something to be desired. How about a homemade terrine? How about some stinky washed rind cheeses? None of the selections they have are real bad but i just can't get excited about habenero cheddar and genoa salami! I've read some complaints about the service here but I've never had any trouble, most likely because i tend to stop by at extreme off hours when there is hardly anyone there. The employees have always been prompt and friendly though. Not a bad place to stop for a quick bite and a nice beer(or absinthe!).
(3)Carissa H.
Food was pretty good, and menu was interesting, but the service was aweful. They ran out of the two things I wanted to order, so when I placed my new order, they messed it up and forgot one of the things that I ordered. It's too bad, because the menu has a lot of potential. But I won't go back because the service was horrible.
(2)Jennifer H.
My favorite place to go in Salem! Gulu Gulu (german for glug glug) has a great atmosphere, and great art on the walls. The best panini in town, I suggest the"Stockholm". Paired with a friendly wait staff, and an impressive beer list, this is the place to go!
(5)Jaime F.
I love this place - when I walk in it feels like home. It's got a very laid back artsy feeling. I love the huge windows that look out onto Essex street and the comfy chairs and couches. The food is great - I've never had a bad meal and I love that I can start with coffee and end with beer all in the same place. I am not a hipster or a punk rocker, I do not have any tattoos nor am I an artist - but I feel completely at home at the Gulu Gulu. I'm not sure why people feel that it is too trendy for them - it is what it is. The place attracts a lot of artist types and young people, but that is fine, I've never felt that I wasn't welcomed there, in fact, conversely, I always feel that the wait staff and customers are friendly.
(5)K W.
I have been to this cafe twice, first coffee to go and it was fine. I liked the coolness of the place so I visited for the second time with my husband and son.... It was not too busy but when we got our latte, both of our cups were sitting in a good amount of coffee in a saucer, when I lifted the cup it dripped all over my top.... it was not hot enough, like someone did not want to spend much time steam the milk.... I ordered slice of cake which took about 20 minutes to arrive. My coffee got really cold by the time I got it. My husband ordered crape which never came, after 30 minutes of waiting, my son's got forgotten. When we got so tired of waiting, the man behind the counter said "ah, I was just going to work on it" after 30 minutes?? They really did not want to take the charge for the crape off the bill either. Took two complaints. We are not such a hard people to please, but don't want to pay for food we never got and lousy service. We drove over an hour to get there, because it was such a neat place, we will not go back again, maybe we are not "hip" enough people to deserve a decent service. They never apologize either.... :( We left being a bit angry. By the way, this was in Salem store.
(1)T R.
love it! it is the perfect place to go. food is wonderful. best atmosphere. the only complaint i have is that since they have events nightly at 8, you really need to finish dinner by then if you want to be able to talk without loud music in the background. So if it is anytime past 7:30 we do not go to eat dinner there, because we know we will have to rush to avoid having our conversation drowned out. I wish they started their events at 8:30 or 9, just to give some extra time to talk.
(5)amy f.
After a great day hanging around Rockport, my boyfriend and I swung through Salem for lunch. Serendipitously, we parked right next to the Gulu Gulu and decided to check it out. The space is open and inviting with cool high ceilings, funky art and comfy couches. We opted to sit at the bar and had the pleasure of chatting with the co-owners of this great spot--really great people, and amazing service. They have an eclectic beer selection (Golden Monkey--Mmmm!), and a sandwich menu that was hard to choose from. Our lunch was delicious, and we couldn't help but share a giant cookie that the owner insisted on warming up for us for dessert. My only wish is that they'd open a location in Boston!
(5)Jennifer R.
Great food & drinks, haven't been let down yet! However it can get a bit noisy on live music nights! friendly staff and pretty cool artwork on the walls.....leading a bit towards the hipster scene so please do pull back a little!
(4)Nick D.
If you love beer, different beer, good beer then you probably should check this place out. With few execptions, I find that bars in the beverly/salem area suck. They all serve mostly poor quality beer at high prices, the atmosphere is lame (unless you dig cover charges, pop music and axe body spray) and food is only worth in if you are in the bag. Gulu is a different place, anything goes. The owners are almost always there (they live upstairs) and they are great for conversation. If you need advice on what to order, just ask, the wait staff and owners are glad to offer. As for the menu, they just redid it and I havent eaten there yet. As for drink, the only big name beers are Sierra Nevada and Dogfish Head (both are excelent). They have had the Dogfish Head on tap as well. all the other beers are obscure. Most are small craft brewers in the US and the rest are imports from the EU. As for the price, any thing on draft is comprible to domestic brew (5-7 dollars), bottled being 5-15 dollars. The higher priced beers are normally imports or large bottles. Coffee is great here for the late night boost.
(4)Corey L.
Stopped in on a Thursday night with a group of friends before a movie. Place has definite character. While we were there, they were playing Black Sabbath songs, with local art on the walls. We were told to grab a table, which we did. No server for at least the first 10 minutes. As we were waiting for a movie, this was annoying. The dude wandering around cleaning tables and doing random things ended up being our server - I found this out by asking him if we had a server. Which he claimed to be. I started with a hot toddy - called an oooooooohh something. It was warm with brandy, cider, stuff in it - cinnamon stick and I think cloves - that I also ate. It wasn't bad - my girlfriend really liked it. I woulda liked a bit more flavor to it. My girlfriend and I shared a cranberry salad, which was good - decent size and good mixture of ingredients, especially if you like cheese. It was deluged in cheese. My girlfriend got a strawberry smoothie with pineapple vodka. It was fine - tasted like good amount of liquor. No milk or ice cream - just strawberries and ice. I got the Munich sandwich, which came with a small salad and chips. The chips were kettle chips and the salad was nice, with a tasty dressing. The sandwich itself was grilled with rare beef and some Dijon mustard that had a horseradishy spice to it. Generally it was blander than I expected. I woulda liked more Dijon mustard in it - and more evenly distributed. We then finished up with a S'mores crepe. I was SUPER excited - I love S'mores (boy scout growing up) and am always disappointed by s'mores flavored stuff as it never tastes like s'mores - you need the melty marshmallows and chocolate. So this came melty and I was super excited. When it came, I quickly became very disappointed. It was a very well done crepe (read: too crispy and dry) with pieces of graham cracker inside and chocolate. There were also chocolate chips on top and whipped cream along the edge. No marshmallows. And too little chocolate in general. This coulda been really good and it really just wasn't. I really want to like this place - I go in trying to like it, but both the service and food keep stopping me. I'll likely try again and hopefully it will be better.
(3)Amanda J.
Came here with friends on a holiday weekend. The place was quite busy and so there was a wait. Upon entering I really loved the atmosphere in the place. But since they were so busy the service was incredibly slow. It took at least 15 minutes to get our drinks. But they did have a great selection of their drink menu. A couple of us had build your own crepes and they were so delicious! There are so many fillings to choose from, both sweet and savory. I really felt like they offered every filling I could possibly want. All sorts of cheeses, vegetables, meats, and dressings for the savory selections. I would definitely come back here, but perhaps when it was a little less crowded! I think our waitress in particular just seemed a bit clueless.
(4)Jeanette W.
Four stars for their beer selection. I wasn't impressed with the food. There isn't a wide range of food options if you aren't there for breakfast. I only went twice at night to listen to music. This spot is definitely best for breakfast or lunch. Their vegetable soup was more like blended veggies, very chunky and not very soup like, very thick.
(4)Nancy F.
Very good! We tried the patsy, terrific! The Eden. A crepe with fruit, very tasty. But I should have chosen something more savory. The oinkers was awesome. It passed the Chuckie review. He thought it was perfect. Great breakfast!!!! Cary was awesome and fun.
(4)Katie O.
Went there on an open mic night and ordered the Bagel w/ Lox. Absolutely delicious, and they didn't skimp on anything. I did have to order it from the bar in order to get service, but I kinda figured that would be the case based on other reviews. Food came out quickly, and the beer selection was great! Neat little vibe, too.
(3)Kylie D.
Great little spot in a lovely part of Salem. Great for hipster families with kids (I say that with love!), singles, whomever. Service was excellent! Our server brought a sliced banana for my friend's daughter on a rustic-looking cutting board instead of just throwing it in a bowl. Classy! My crepe was good and since I don't eat a lot of crepes, I can only say that I enjoyed it and that all the ingredients were fresh and yummy. Overall a great place, especially on a nice day - outside seating near the square is charming.
(4)Bradley L.
Visited Salem last night and stopped into Gulu Gulu in search of some slightly "modern" cafe fare. Seeing how it looked like a hip place, crawling with tatted folks with septums, I assumed Gulu Gulu would at least have an inventive menu to attract pretentious foodies. Upon first inspection of the menu I was hugely dissapointed. My only choices for a filling meal were crepes and sandwiches. Oh well, it's my fault for assuming they would at least have burgers or something. As I already ordered a beer I figured I would just stay and try out some of their food. I ordered the "soup of the day" which was, of course, clam chowder. It arrived in a small bowl, resting upon a bed of mixed greens on an extra large plate... why was my bowl of soup on a bed of mixed greens? Super cheesy. To get back to the soup itself... It was definitely Blount soup from a bag. Oh well. I also tried their take on a charcuterie plate. I got the French boursin cheese, the cranberry wensleydale and "their" famous Ghost pepper salami. The plate arrived with a ramekin of the boursin, haggardly sliced pieces of salami and the wensleydale resting on a bed of lettuce. Pointless plate garnish again..Oh well.. The plate was also served with the same bread that came with my blount clam chowder. I put their in quotations because most people dont realize they get their meat and cheese from some major distributor like Sam Wainer or US Foods. Lastly i tried the "Munich" panini. Rare roast beef, swiss cheese, dijon and dill pickle. When it arrived to the table i noticed that the bread my sandwich was on was the same bread from the soup and the cheese plate... do they literally only carry this one loaf of white bread? The sandwich itself was boring, had no flavor and my dill pickle was just those flimsy pickle chips you'd get on a whopper. Pros: Cozy atmosphere and the beer list is actually very good. I had the Founders Dark Penance black IPA. An ample serving for only 5 bucks. Go for the bar, stay away from the food.
(2)Daniel H.
Ordered a meal and waited 20 minutes before being told wasn't available. Served cold coffee too
(1)Michael M.
Though I've been a regular for years now, it is with recent frustration that I've finally succumbed to writing this less than stellar review. In fact I feel it is my obligation to do so, in hopes that something may give, and standards may change. The Gulu Gulu has always provided a great menu, a vast beer selection, and a perfect atmosphere. This rings true especially for local artists within the community. It's perfect to inhabit on any given day no matter the season. And though the employees are enjoyable in their own right, I find the establishments overall service level lackluster at best. With few exceptions it never seems as though any employee, no matter how seasoned a veteran, possesses a sense of urgency when serving the customer. This a trait I know first hand all too well, and have forgiven one too many times. Twice this week staff have failed in providing me with what I consider a proper level of service and attention. The first failure took place while dining at the bar for lunch. I was only one of two patrons inhabiting the bar. And yet It took a solid 25 mins to order lunch. Upon completion of my meal both bartenders neglected to check in with me. Chatting away, careless and fancy free they waltzed back and forth in front of me several times. All the while awaiting an opportunity to ask for my bill. Something that never presented itself. A an equally kind and diligent floor waitress whose name was Natalie eventually noticed something wrong. It was she that ended up presenting me with my bill without me even having to ask. Irritated but only slightly I let it slide and left to resume my day. But it was last evening when I called to place a take out order - was placed on hold, all the while driving from the N. Shore Mall to the YMCA (16 mins in traffic) where I parked my car, exited, and walked into the restaurant STILL ON HOLD awaiting my order to be had that iced this already bitter cake. Knowing the bar staff personally seemed to warrant a sigh of relief on their part. Jovially playing it off as a mistake, they verbalized their relief when learning it was ONLY me. Am I not a customer? Despite how often I frequent the establishment, or how well you know me as a person, do I not deserve the same service and respect that I'd get elsewhere? Does the Gulu Gulu feel invincible or are they just that apathetic about how their customers feel? Whatever their mentality I've chosen to bring my business elsewhere. Perhaps I'll enjoy my coffee from a local bakery and my lunch from the newly established Ugly Mug.
(2)CJ B.
All the right moves: -Welcomes dogs -Wait staff with funky outfits -Lots of non natural hair colors in the kitchen -Guy in motorcycle jacket at the bar writing emails -Mismatched tables and chairs -Pink Floyd on the sound system BUT unfortunately the food is pretty pedestrian. Even though they had interesting names, our sandwiches were corporate cold cuts on uninspired bread with a very small salad and a few chips. And the advertised Lentil Soup turned out to be beef barley!
(3)Jenn S.
Just stopped by for a cup of coffee so this will be short but I wanted to comment on how nice the staff was. We walked up to the little to-go counter on the left and ordered coffee and hot tea. Tasted great and loved the service!
(4)Joanna L.
Probably one of Salem's coolest places to hang out. Mostly a cafe with sandwiches, but known for good charcuterie boards. Cheese and meat platters are pick-your-own, and reasonable in price. For two people, two cheeses and meats should be enough for sharing. This place is a hangout and a snack joint - don't come here with the mindset of getting a great MEAL. The fun is in the linger, and the lazing. They have board games and good live entertainment on weekends. It's funky, spunky, and indie, and foodie. Like a coffee shop - but with meats and cheeses. Staff is nice and upbeat, kinda like baristas. A definite try for locals, or people looking to while away a few hours in town.
(4)Katie M.
My gluten free wrap was half the size of the regular wraps and 50 cents more. Service was mediocre, not great. Very good selection of beers and other beverages including cider! Food was good, but felt ripped off on the gf option.
(3)Danna D.
I really love this place. The food and drinks have always been good, and it is a great place to hang out for a bit. Everyone is very friendly, and the owner is awesome as well. I like the whole feel of the place, and the live music is pretty cool. I don't want to knock them down a start for this (and I wont) because it is an awesome place, but the service kind of sucks overall. I've been there quite a few times, and each time I have to flag down someone on the waitstaff to get a refill of coffee or anything else. I could literally sit there for 30 minutes after finishing my coffee without anyone checking up to see how I'm doing. Mind you, the place could be completely empty, and I still get that same exact service.
(5)Janna H.
Great atmosphere! That was definitely the best part for me. The servers were nice and the food choices are great. They even had fruit beers on tap! Very eclectic feel all around. The one major downside was that the entire back area where the bathrooms are located smelled really bad, as if they mopped the area with a sour mop. It's impossible to miss the smell, so I'm very disappointed that it was left that way.
(3)Travis S.
My wife and I were only in Salem for one night and still had two of our meals here. Great sandwiches, great beer selection, really nice staff, and a really cool vibe. If I lived anywhere nearby I would certainly be a regular. Fantastic spot.
(5)Serena H.
Honestly, I really enjoy the atmosphere of this place. Their coffee isn't bad and they have an admittedly impressive selection of beer. However I have never once, in the 6 or 7 times I've been forced to go there, received even an approximation of mediocre service. The waitresses are always nowhere to be found, the bill is always elusive (despite asking for it twice or thrice) and the food has never come out anything short of 30 minutes. It's a good thing the cafe serves mostly cold food because if they had to be responsible for hot food who knows what may happen. I cannot justify spending this much on a sandwich or a salad just to be treated like a burden to the wait staff. I'm puzzled at the excellent reviews this place enjoys. I won't be giving it anymore chances. Sorry!
(1)Chris S.
There was literally nothing on the menu for gluten intolerance for a Sunday brunch the one time I attempted to eat here. Bored hipsters is right.
(1)Liliya M.
This place is my go to spot when visiting Salem. The servers are always friendly, the seating is perfect (couches for coffee, high stools for drinks, tables for meals), and they have a sweet menu with pretty reasonable pricing. * Tip: Though their crepes are super tasty, I suggest going with a sandwich if you are looking for something more filling. *
(4)Narcissus A.
I tried so hard to like this place but it's just not happening.... I went there 4 times total and to be honest if rather sit by the lobster shanty than this place Service is constantly slow and kind of irresponsible. I waited for my server for over 30 minutes twice and they werent even that busy. The crowd is a veey weird mixture of people and the place just gives me a weird vibe overall. I think it's the service. Waiters look constantly bored and kind of out of place and sync with their surroundings. Sorry Gulu Gulu.... I tried... maybe it's just not for me :)
(2)Chris B.
My girlfriend and I just stopped in while visiting Salem for the weekend. I got the tbgt wrap and it was a knockout. Great food, super quick wait, awesome music, and right across the street from the fair! Definitely will come back!
(5)Joe M.
Annie you rock!!!!! Definitely a must stop when your in Salem, mass. The ambience is funky. Lots of painting of dogs and superhero action figures. I sat on the couch and had a 360 view of the entire place. For starters the Kopanisti and Utopenee is a light appetizer. Enjoy.
(5)Iris B.
great helpful friendly staff, good food selections, good music, cool atmosphere.. what's not to like? I came in for lunch on a recent visit to Salem (which is a cool city btw) and what I ordered was really yummy plus they have good options for veggie heads out there :)
(4)Paulina P.
This is a quaint and whimsical pace with good food and great drinks. Perfect rest stop while exploring the city.
(4)Alex K.
Gulu Gulu gets a five-star review relative to the rest of the North Shore. Having moved from the West Coast, this is exactly the kind of place I miss having: Where one of us can have a cup of coffee and the other a glass of wine, where I can get some work done or shut the laptop and enjoy a slow conversation. The coffee is good, the food is not bad, the vibe is great.
(5)K H.
Love it here! Great coffee & conversation place. Nice lunch and snacks! of course, Amazing coffee
(4)Kelly R.
I have been stalking the Gulu Gulu for the better part of the last year and finally found an opportunity to try them out. My husband has been a law student the last 3 years and finding time to go out and relax doesn't happen often. There is a quote/descriptive on their menu that says "The Gulu Gulu Cafe is a bohemian outpost..." And I couldn't have said it any better myself. This gem of an outpost was a wonderful escape from the ordinary and a light in our day! Warm and cozy with an air of relaxation and ambiance, we made our way to the bar. There we were warmly greeted and handed menus while we took in the bountiful bar selection. A nice variety of beers, both local, micro, and international (esp. Czech & Belgian). The menu was eclectic, generous, and delicious. We settled on sharing their Barcelona Panini (smoked turkey & Manchego cheese) which was well portioned with a small green salad and Cape Cod chips. It hit the spot! We paired the sandwich with a beer, myself a stout, himself a Trappist ale. To top off our impromptu lunch we were delighted to see that they offered French Press, so we indulged. Perfect spot to relax and unwind while treating yourself to a great atmosphere with delicious food! The Gulu was wonderfully creative and there were folks of all ages enjoying themselves. Truly an enclave worthy of escape. We look forward to escaping there again soon!
(4)Sabrina S.
LOVE GULU'S such a unique hotspot to check out when you go to salem! Thank god I live 10 minutes away from gulu's, I introduce all my friends to this place and play board games and eat good snacks! The Crepes are to DIE for, literally so perfect! I can't forget to mention that the service there is great!
(4)Carrie H.
I am hooked! Spent the weekend before Halloween up in Salem and this place is in walking distance from our hotel. We ate breakfast, lunch, dinner and in-betweens there. I HEART THIS PLACE!!! Cappuccino drinkers you will bask in its wonderfulness!!! It's big, it's delightful and I could not stop drinking them. Latte's just as good. We loved the sandwiches, the salads, the crepes with bananas and nutella were out of this world. We were there on the busiest week of the year and the service was great. I even hunted down the owner and told him how much I loved this place. Not sure what previous reviews are talking about "hipsters" I'm a 57 year old woman and I don't give a ___ who I'm eating "around" If the food is good and the price is good and the location is good. Stop your whining!!
(5)Vickie W.
Really awesome place! Waitstaff is attentive and helpful! Fannnntastic beer selection, standard fare annnd imports, something for everyone here!
(4)Valerie N.
First time I went here, I got an awesome chicken sandwich, which was, again, awesome! However, best part was the side salad, whatever that red dressing is that they use is scrumptious! Another time I came by during the winter for hot apple cider, it was the best I've ever had. Just waiting for the cold weather to set in again so I can go back for another. The atmosphere is great, relaxed and friendly. The fact that they also display the works of local artists and let local bands play there makes it even better. A great little restaurant / bar, if you're visiting salem this place is definitely worth it!
(4)Benjamin L.
The Gulu (as we call it) is a uniquely awesome place. The atmosphere isn't that of a bar or cafe. I feel like it's more like a lounge. Solid beer selection and great tea and coffee to boot. The food and mixed drinks are also pretty tasty. The people who come here range from seniors to toddlers but mostly it seems to be young people in their 20s and 30s with their friends. It's my default place to meet up with pals in Salem!
(5)Crystal B.
Banana bread=A+. They are even nice enough to make me Iced Chai Lattes in the summer!
(4)Jonathan E.
neat little place. we had brunch here on Christmas Eve. the food was pretty good, but seemed to be in smaller quantities than i expected.
(3)Kevin D.
The wife and I spend a bunch of time in Salem and their is no question in either of our minds that Gulu Gulu is the best spot in town. Awesome beer list, great food, great vibe, dog friendly, nice outdoor seating, good music and entertainment, and a great vibe (did I already say that?). Also, don't miss the breakfast. Awesome breakfast sandwiches (especially the one with the ghost pepper salami). We love them so much we had them cater the breakfast after our wedding (bagels, muffins, coffee, juices) and they were great.
(5)Leesha Z.
I don't really understand why this place is so hyped up. I gave this place two chances and both were pretty disappointing. First visit was on a Wednesday night. I came up to the bar during a very busy open mic night. I asked if they could make me a French 75 and the guy behind the bad replied with "no we can't." I stared at him, pretty confused and asked why. He proceeded to tell me they don't have a full liquor license and all that. I said we were all set and left. I probably would've ordered a glass or wine or something if he hadn't been so rude. Second visit, it was pretty late and I was hungry and I knew they served food late so we decided to give it a second try. We came in on a Monday, got seated right away by a friendly waitress and looked over the menus. My boyfriend and I decided to order a few dessert "cocktails". The Milky Way one and the almond joy. Both sounded pretty good. For good, I got a turkey tomato and moz crepe. We got our drinks and wow way too sweet. We both could barely finish. In fact, I couldn't even get past drinking a quarter or it. Yuck. And way too overpriced for what it is. $10 each. I felt robbed. The crepe wasn't bad, but nothing special. Everything in it seemed fresh but it didn't blow my mind. There's plenty of other places in Salem is rather to than here. Sorry.
(2)CE D.
I find the awful reviews of this place & the "awful hipster staff" hilarious and many of them sound like they were written by awful hipsters themselves. I'm no fan of the bearded skinny pant wearing crowd but if my choices are between hipsters in flannel and New England rednecks in jerseys and turtlenecks, I prefer the hipster joints because they have at least heard of serving a vegetable. I enjoyed my first visit here for breakfast so much that I returned later that night it coffee and drinks and then again for breakfast the next morning. The crêpes were delicious and the drink selections were on point--great beers and nice coffee options. The service was less efficient (but not bad) than I would maybe have liked at some points but to be honest as a NYer I find most places outside of my area slow anyway. One thing that irked me was that you cannot get a freaking glass of water in this joint OR anywhere else in Salem without having to practically beg for it. What the heck?! Gulu Gulu was a cute spot where we were able to bring our dog and not very expensive. If/when in Salem again we will once again stop in!
(4)Richard D.
I've been here a few times and love Gulu's electric vibe.
(5)Mark L.
I have been here a number of times for drinks. It is always a pleasant atmosphere with a very good selection of beer. This is the first time I have been for breakfast. The coffee is good. The kitchen is a bit slow but the waitstaff is attentive and the food is well worth the wait.
(4)Derek W.
This review is for breakfast. Not really impressed. Service was arduously slow. I ordered the traditional crepe with ham. It was wicked dry, without much flavor at all. Coffee was acceptable. The inside of this place is pretty hipster looking and funky.
(3)Dave L.
Wow, Yelp really hit a home run on this one. We came to the Salem Witch Museum in the morning and then spent about an hour letting our boys play in the Salem Common. When it was time for lunch, I looked at Yelp and found Gulu Gulu Cafe. This place is funky and fun and cool and has really good food. It is located in a beautiful little square in downtown Salem, which has a funky, fun, and cool vibe to it. We came at lunch time on a Sunday. The restaurant was busy, but we were seated right away. They have a bar that serves coffee and tea. They also have a very good craft beer list that emphasizes local brews. I ordered a charcuterie plate and a Mediterranean salad to split with my wife. The salad was excellent - fresh, very little dressing so the taste of the veggies and feta came through. The meat and cheese on my charcuterie plate was very good. It was served with a good sized plate of toasted French bread. The goat cheese I ordered was very mild and the salami and hot cappicola were great. The iced tea was also very good. I also ate some of my son's hummus plate. The hummus was served with a generous portion of veggies - celery, carrots, cucumbers - and pita. The hummus was pretty mild. Service here was decent. Our server looked like a surf dude. He was okay, but kind of slow. Overall, the food was reasonably priced for the amount and quality. If I lived in the Salem area, this would probably be one of my favorites. The only reason I am not giving five stars is the slow service and kitchen.
(4)Nicole S.
Went to Gulu Gulu tonight for a late meal with our kids. Ate outside and had fun, nice feel. Had theeeee best vanilla latte ever! Props to the guy who made my drink. Had the veggie crepe. A little too much goat cheese, but otherwise good. Husband had a turkey panini. It had apple butter and he liked the combo. Kids had breakfast sandwiches, which they both liked. Even better was the chocolate milk, very chocolatey, which they loved! We all rated the meal on a scale of 1 to 10, and the average was an 8.5. Which is good for us. Btw, the meal cost us $38.00, which was the most inexpensive meal we've had all week! And, our waitress was very nice. A great experience!
(4)Simon Z.
Love this place as much as I can love a hipster retreat. Gulu keeps me coming back for three things: Good beer Good Panini's Good coffee
(5)Sara F.
This is probably my favorite place ever for drinks, music, and enjoying the company of good people. It is not my favorite place for food. I love the bands that play here. They are always super unique but good. Funky and fun music that hipstets of all ages can enjoy. I love the environment. The tables and chairs are miss matched, there is contemporary art on the walls, there are games to play, and everyone in the cafe looks like they could be my friend. I just feel so happy and at home! This is the kind of place I want to come to on my birthday! The drinks are great! Huge selection of beer! I just don't really care for anything on the menu. I want to like the food, but it is just not for me. Maybe I am choosing the wrong things? I will continue to try items on the menu, hoping to find something I'll love.
(4)Allison W.
Love it! First of all, they have adorable pugs and Boston terriers on their door and glassware. Winning me over already. And an outdoor patio! Then their food was interesting and delicious. I had a smoked turkey panini, with havarti cheese, arugula, dijon mustard, and apple butter. Awesome flavor combination, and a big sandwich. I also had an americano and their espresso was quite good. They have a make-your-own crepe option with a very wide variety of nice cheeses, veggies, meats, and sauces, as well as sweet crepes. For dessert, I tried the blueberry/walnut/brie crepe, which was not that good... The brie was just in chunks unevenly hidden in the crepe, and the blueberries were whole (delish) but the drawback was that they kept falling out. The brie should have been melted more, which would have held the blueberries down. It was meh. Service was also extremely slow, but my overall rating is still a 4 for the cute decor and nice outdoor seating, and mostly great food. Would def go back.
(4)Stefanie H.
Favorite place in Salem! Great beer selection, delicious food and great live music/entertainment. Be prepared to stay a while!
(5)Erik S.
One of the best spots on the North Shore for a wide selection on tap! Their food leaves something to be desired, though I can't say I've had everything on their menu yet. I typically get pizza next door at Flying Saucer and then head to Gulu-Gulu for drinks and some live music.
(4)Justin K.
My favorite place to work long hours and people watch fascinating people. When sipping coffee gets old I switch to beer without moving seats!
(4)Mike M.
Food is great but the business is in serious need of introspection. The service here is absolute garbage. Servers are impossibly slow and marvelously inattentive. They never have 3/4 of the alcohol on their menu in stock. Poorly managed and lazy to a fault. Doubt I'll be back.
(2)Tiffany G.
My husband and I were in Salem for 4 days and this place was the first place we went to eat, we returned 4 times. The first night I ordered the Istanbul and my husband got the Nice, for desert we had a s'mores crepe that we shared, we were so impressed we ate there again the next day I had the nice and he had the chicken cordon bleu crepe, we came back again for breakfast the next two mornings, we can't say enough good things about the food, the staff, and the atmosphere, we felt completely at home. I wish we lived near there we would be there at least 3 nights a week.
(5)Kamila P.
best breakfast sandwich ever!!!! the spinwich is so legit!
(5)Justina P.
Very tasty meals that are fresh and presented lovely. Very nice options; from a verity of teas to fresh made sandwiches with goat cheese. Yum!! Quiet-ish and nice calm vide. (:
(4)William D.
You refused to make a spinwich on a Sunday despite all the ingredients for it being on the menu in other items and the means to prepare it being available. Odd for an otherwise welcoming and pleasant place. This was our last day on the north shore and we went out of our way to come back here.
(4)Chris L.
I hate yelp. I hate everything about it because on estimate I'd say about 85% of the people who write bad reviews should not be saying anything at all. If someone has something to say about something that went horribly wrong, let a manager know while you're there so they can fix it, rather than going home all pissed off and tearing the place apart. That being said, i'm no expert, but i know the industry, and this place is awesome. Everything about it is great. Respect for trying to divert from the norm and have people experiment with different foods and flavors and encouraging it. It is a great place to sit and enjoy the day and eat some great food. This place is what a caffe is all about. The prices are also extremely resonable for the high quality food they put out. Again, boo too all who say the service is bad or whatever. This isn't a "get em in get em out" kinda place, and the service reflects that perfectly. If you're looking for that, go to McDonalds.
(5)Natalie C.
Confused as to why this place is so highly rated by everyone. The food was decent but plain. The menu doesn't boast anything new or exciting. I got the vegetarian breakfast sandwich and it was greasy and average. The service was truly terrible. It took 20 minutes to get a cup of house blend coffee and I never the cup of water I asked for. I wouldn't recommend this place.
(2)Juanita D.
This is the cutest little coffee/creperie/sandwich shop in alllll of Salem! While traveling around the Boston area we made a quick day trip to Salem, MA. My friend decided to take me to this local spot that she said was too cute to be true. Great little spot to hang out with your friends or talk to some interesting people. Woodsy kinda feel inside, board games, very open area in little shopping area of town & close to the Salem Witch Museum. Awesome Crepes & the hot chocolate is tooooo die for! You MUST try this place otu!
(5)Cheri S.
A fun beatnik type of cafe with a good variety of food for all. Try the mack 'n cheese - it's definitely worth it. Good selection of house cocktails and beer on tap. We enjoyed a late night meal, so it was pretty dark (as in not much light) and there was musical entertainment which varies nightly. The servers were quirky, but attentive attentive.
(4)Epi I.
Had wine and appetizers. Wine was fine. Had their bruschetta. Sadly to say, the bread was not toasted and on the bread was only canned tomato and a couple of pieces of basil w/a little bit of olive oil. We should've returned it but we thought we'd just enjoy the afternoon and our wine. Then, there was a little group sitting next to us. They kept having someone come over and check on them while we sat there without anyone asking us if the bruschetta was ok or if we wanted another drink. I ended up flagging one of the servers to ask for water. I gave them the dirty look for ignoring us. Then I had to walk inside the cafe to get a server to bring us our check. TERRIBLE SERVICE HERE. MAYBE IT'S COMMON HERE IN SALEM TO GIVE BAD SERVICE TO VISITORS. I wish Yelp allowed minus stars. I'd give Gulu Gulu Cafe MINUS 5! I'll never visit this cafe again.
(1)Gypsy M.
On my most recent visit I was horrified to see if they had dressed up the iconic bulldog painting on the window in what seemed to be a mockery of Native American cultural costume. When I told the worker that as a Native American customer I felt alienated and that it was racist I was met with sarcasm and scorn. I heard that eventually they removed it due to increased pressure and complaints, but I don't want to dine in a place where the atmosphere is one of racism.
(1)Mikhail M.
Such a cute place! I loved the quirky style of this authentically Boston themed cafe. Spacious and bright, eating brunch at Gulu Gulu feels like a Sunday morning with friends and faming. The veggie crepe was delicious and I can also recommended the Berry and Nice if you are looking for something sweet.
(5)Sarah M.
Love the atmosphere and the beer selection. The salmon/lettuce wraps are delicious, as are the crepes. (I recommend the Hungarian one with the plum jam). The service can be a bit slow -- that's the main thing I'd change.
(4)Tulan K.
This is the best place to have some good beer. The cheese and meat plates are delicious. I specially loved their Ghost pepper , cilantro and tequila infused salami. It is a loud place with bands playing there and also sort of sit yourself place. Sandwiches were ok since the bread was too hard and actually hurt when you bite in but i think this place is def worth it for its cheese and meats.
(5)Lil M.
I'd say 3.5 stars. Its in a great spot in Salem. The waiters are busy, and there was a long wait for food and drinks and the check. So, needeless extra time spent at the Gulu Gulu, which I would name sort of a hipster bistro. The meat & cheese plate was great. The coffee was so-so and the crepes were nothing to write home about.
(3)Amy H.
Saturday night in Salem during October is no joke. Every restaurant was packed, the streets were packed, and the one place that could seat us didn't appear to have any waitstaff working. We put our name in at Gulu Gulu, because a 30-min wait was the best yet, and went to the bar to have drinks while we waited. Luckily we found seats at the bar, so we just sat there and ordered food. Everything was delicious! Crepes, wraps, and sandwiches were super fresh and tasty, and since we were sitting at the bar, we could watch the cooks work. The beer selection is fantastic (Southern Tier Pumpkin ftw), and the bartenders were helpful with suggestions. A great, cozy, funky local spot that I will definitely visit again. My friends who stayed in Salem went back the next morning for breakfast. :)
(5)Lisa L.
I thought the entertainment was great first time going there I noticed it gets pretty crowded. You go up to the bar to order your food, the staff was diligent and polite ,though I only got a coffee and a parfait I thought the food was great Ive had many parfaits but theres was the best! I Plan to go back and try something else and see more great performances, great vibes.
(4)Marshunda S.
Great place to have a sandwich...and EXCELLENT sandwich. I frequent this café more often.
(5)Katelyn B.
Hipster haven. I used to adore this place. It's a great place to go and spend some time playing games, hanging out with friends, listening to local music, and grabbing a drink. I really loved this place when their open mic nights first started. In my opinion, it's gone down hill. The food is pretty good, but I always went for the deserts! They've changed that portion of the menu so many times in the past few years, all my favorites are gone. And now it's weird. Good luck trying to get a table when there is live entertainment or during tourist season. (Anytime.) Open Mic Night...forget it. Jeff and Brian are great hosts! However the talent pool has changed. It's all old hipsters playing their pan flutes and singing cover songs. There seem to be a lot of inside jokes and "Gulu celebrities" that are made a big deal about but not everyone knows/understands. I miss the old days Gulu...I really do.
(3)Clarke B.
We live out of the area, but every time we are in Salem, we come here. It's, fan friggan tastic!!!!
(5)Lisa C.
One of my favs in Salem. I haven't tried all the food on the menu (b/c I don't eat a lot of things) but I love what I do get and my friends have always been happy with their selections. Great coffee. Staff are always friendly. I haven't had any of the frustrations that some other reviewers have had and I'm there pretty often, mostly during the day time.
(4)chris b.
Great vibe to this place. Plenty of seating and ample bar space if you come in "solo" or with just a few friends. Their "Mind Sweeper" caffeinated beverage does the job nicely if you need a pick-me-up. I had a Smoked Turkey, Bacon, and Avocado wrap that was prepared just the way I like it. If you join their "Gulu Gulu" club (not sure how easy that is to get into) you get to drink your beer from an elaborate chalice.
(5)Joeli G.
If you can take eating around a plethora of Hipsters without gagging, then you could come here and get a sandwich and a beer. It's pricy for what it is and the waitstaff hipsters are....hipsters....so it's hit or miss on service. Food is fresh though and beer is draft. Coffee isn't too bad either and they have a tea menu (of course! #%*+ hipsters). I despise that people take up entire tables to click away on their computer machines while they drink an entire pot of tea themselves; but that's just me. Not my favorite place or one I frequent as a local but good for a passer by that wants to soak up a piece of Salem's diverse scene and grab a bite to eat. Please don't feed the hipsters.
(2)Frank Z.
This is a fun place to see some live music and have a few tasty drinks. The food is good but quite limited. Check the menu online before you stroll in expecting a full menu. The food I have gotten has been good and the funky beers and cocktails are great. I can dig a place like this. Be prepared for cliché tattooed hipsters with ear spacers and septum piercings sitting for hours glued their apple electronic products while they nurse a coffee and take up a seat. At the same time, I'll take that over the sport-a-thon meatmarket bars that are all over town any day of the week. They have live music which can be hit or miss; I've seen some great performances there, and some questionable ones too. That being said, it's better than staring at a muted Sportscenter screen all night, to be sure. I wish more places were like this in the 'burbs.
(4)Gia L.
Nice spot in town. Good food, somewhat pretentious, although it appears trendy for young hipsters. Service was good, but we noticed that the manager was sitting at the counter behind us, so that may have played a role in the increased work production of staff. Nice selection of beer and coffee beverages, and they have love music frequently. Good tourist spot if your not in a rush.
(3)Kimberly K.
I give it 4 for a great vibe, being totalllly unique and having great craft brews. Their food is not great, but I was kind of ok with that. The cheese board was good. But everything else was just kinda "meh" Service was good. I will come back late sometime to check out the live band scene. Perhaps that'll really warrant my 4 stars.
(4)Gina Marie B.
This is exactly the kind of place I was looking to visit when I went to Salem. It is as artsy as it gets. Live music, cute waiters with tattoos, art on the walls, french food, etc. A truly fun place in the middle of town that reminded me a lot of cafes in the artist colony areas of the village and Williamsburg Brooklyn. However this place was a tad bigger then those. The most interesting thing about the set up here was that it was half cafe and half bar. Something I actually do not see too much of in the artist colonies. You could come here at night for just a drink, or just for desert, or just for a sandwich, etc. I could see it was a lot of places home away from home. It has a relaxed atmosphere. You walk in and you seat yourself. It can get very busy so do not alway expect to find a seat! But a waiter will come up to you shortly when you do. The menu is a small cafe menu. They are trying to re-create what you would see in a lot of French cafes. So if you are dying for a menu with a thousand options, and foods such as big juicy stakes and pork chops, then do not come here for dinner. If you are a crepe, cheese, panini, and a yummy dessert drink lover then come here. I got a drink that literally tasted like strong alcoholic chocolate syrup! YUMMY! I got a cheese plate. Cheese plate in general are expensive but this place was worth the money, and the quality. Most NYC places I go to that have cheese plates offer you the tinniest little crumb of cheese. This place gave you a huge slab of cheese and an entire huge bowl of bread to go along with it. I could not believe the size, I ended up taking a lot home. It was very good! My boyfriend and I then shared the banana and nutella crepe that they had. It was very very good. I am not a huge crepe person to begin with, but could tell this was a good crepe. Service was fast and very friendly, everyone seemed to be having a great time. I will be coming back here next time I visit Salem!
(5)Chrissy H.
This is my home away from home. I should probably pay them rent. Free wi-fi, good music, coffee, tea, bagels, crepes and art work make this a perfect place to get off campus (this means you Salem State!) and get some work done. Between 9:30 and 10:30, it's nice and quiet. 11:30-2 the lunch crowd comes in and there's some bustle, but nothing over the top. Grab a snack! Waffles, oatmeal or a bagel in the morning. Wraps, salads, meat and cheese plates for lunch or dinner. And don't forget the crepes! Coffee, tea -even refreshing iced tea- my favorite and a rarity in New England in the winter! For those of you not giving your liver a rest, get a beer flight! It's cheap and the best way to find a new favorite craft beer! If you see a girl in bangs with her head buried in a book, come say hi, I could use a distraction from schoolwork!
(5)Kate D.
My opinion has changed and this has now become one of my favorite spots in Salem. Food, beer, service and atmosphere is great. Love the hipster vibe to it. I would highly recommend any of their paninis - delish! Love Gulu Gulu!
(5)Sona T.
Dropped in Sunday morning for breakfast. We were really looking forward to coming here for breakfast due to its presence and the reviews. We sat ourselves, which I think is a strange policy so people coming in had to make their own system. We sat down and ordered regular coffee (bitter and strong) and ordered two breakfast sandwiches and a waffle. We were waiting for 45 minutes! We told the waitstaff that we've been waiting so long and got a lackluster apology. It seemed they were making food for the larger groups first. We got so fed up, that we voided our food (we were still 6-8 tickets away from our food being cooked!) and went somewhere else to have lunch. Came for breakfast, waited long enough for lunch. Also, the waitress was rude when we voided our food; I have not had one pleasant encounter with the staff here. They seem to be running around all the time but they're not accomplishing anything. I was really looking forward to a nice experience.
(1)Lana G.
Stopped by on a whim on Friday, when my mother and I were visiting the Peabody Essex Museum and wanted a light lunch. Food menu and potion sizes were perfect! Great vegetarian options, make your own crepes, creative salads, and great cafe drinks! Everything you could want for a healthy, light lunch or snack. I almost wish I lived closer so that I could return to the mismatched chairs, funky art, game shelf and wonderful wait staff. I will definitely return next time I am in Salem. As one who lives in Somerville, I love the hipster-feel and I think that's a wonderful characteristic of this place that sets it apart from mediocre options in the area.
(5)Paul A.
Terrific beer selection and different menu. Had the smoked turkey, BLT Pannini. Tasted okay, not spectacular. Asked for extra mayo. Service slow and cafe not as busy as usual. Thus the 3 stars. Would go back. Hostess was friendly , cooperative and nice.
(3)Johnathon B.
One of the most hyped-up businesses in Salem. I'll give it to them...location is extremely important for this restaurant. With its city-central base of operations, it's hard to ignore. No bones about it, they have a ton of beers to choose from. The food on the other hand...meh. I had a Caesar Wrap and it was pretty disappointing. (What tasted like) Store-bought, vinaigrette-style dressing, mixed greens (mostly spinach), and uninspiring cheese on a wheat tortilla. The soup of the day was alright, but lukewarm. I've tried their crepes...they always turn out limp and bland. The environment is quaint, but surely not enough to make up for the not-so-great food. TIP: Go next door to Flying Saucer Pizza. It's owned by the same people, so generally they have similar beer choices, the daily specials are delicious, the ambience is great (old sci-fi movies and great music), and it's way more affordable.
(2)Joe M.
A great place to hang out. Great food I love the creeps. The utepononik is a great warm weather meaty snack.
(5)Deborah G.
great little spot!
(4)Danie R.
Beer selection, cheese plate, done. Everything else kind of sucks and is disappointing, especially if you're vegetarian. I've gotten crepes and they were cold on the inside. They were supposed to be hot and melty. Negative. I've gotten sandwiches. So boring that it's like, what's the point? Seriously, stick with their drinks. Coffee, tea, beer, all great here. Cheese plate? Do it! They can't mess that up! But don't get the regular cheddar. Meh. Always the red dragon. Always the marinated brie. Don't worry about it. Just stick with this stuff and you'll like this place. Also, don't come here in October. It'll be packed and you'll take 5 years to get a table and another 5 more to get your food.
(3)Sarah F.
Gluten-free crepes, gluten-free wraps, and gluten-free PIES!!!!! Delicious food, relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff, and a few comfy couches for patrons make this a surprisingly kid-friendly place. There is of course "regular" food for people without gluten intolerance.
(4)Lynda L.
Amazing iced coffee!!! Cold-brewed is the way to go!!! Love it Love it! I also highly recommend the S'Mores Crepe, so decadent and yummy. Sandwiches are deeeeelish too!
(5)Mara S.
This is a nice, casual place for some brunch or lunch. We stopped in around 1 on a Sunday and it was busy, but the wait was only a few minutes. Our food was good - I got a savory crepe, highly recommended, and everyone else got paninis which they seemed to enjoy. I wasn't expecting a crepe to be especially filling, but it was definitely a full meal. Service was a touch slow, but I wouldn't call that the wait staff's fault, it was busy.
(4)Elizabeth R.
4 Stars for the beer selection and live music. I'm here frequently and have mixed feelings -on one hand, the atmosphere is great... very relaxed. On the other hand, the atmosphere is really relaxed. Nope, not a misprint. While the hip cafe vibe works, it also works against this place. Seating is "take what you can get". On weekends, or nights when there is live music, regulars come early and stay for the duration, meaning the establishment and servers are missing out on revenue from the tables that they could be turning over, were they not occupied. Service is also hit or miss. Waiting an hour for breakfast in Salem is par for the course in October, but not so much in midwinter. And don't even think about playing one of the games in the cabinet... Last time we attempted their Scrabble, we had to cannibalize tiles from the several sets on hand. But Gulu-Gulu, I just can't hate you. You mean well. And there is nowhere else in town you can watch a guy in full Halloween getup rock out to a full house in July, or where my boyfriend can drunkenly buy ironic start trek paintings (swearing all the while we're geeks, not hipsters). And they deserve credit for that. Plus, the beer.
(4)Mike R.
Beer Cheese Soup, wow!!! Awesome beer list too! Love this quirky little place that is an escape from the witchiness enveloping most of Salem!
(5)nick c.
It's a great place! Good food, friendly people, comfortable atmosphere. I'm a regular for a reason. When I go out, I think about going other places, but most of the time I end up at Gulu.
(5)Beth A.
I'm actually a big fan of this place until they changed the weekend menu. The cut the crepes list half and the breakfast sandwiches. My partner and I went in on MLK Day and they didn't have anything that we usually order, even the cheese and meat platter folks rave about - gone. The kitchen refused to make a simple butter crepe. We were so disappointed. Please bring back your regular menu!!
(3)Sarah J.
My mom and I come to Massachusetts every year and visit Salem! We always make a point to stop at this wonderful place because of their amazing crepes! We are never disappointed with the food or the service. Try the Nutella and banana crepe!
(5)Lara L.
Quite disappointed that this was my least favorite restaurant in Salem but even that isn't necessarily an insult to Gulu. I think we came there at a crazy time of the day. So I want to give them the benefit of the doubt. They let our dog sit with us and provided fresh water for him (and us) after a very long drive which is always much appreciated. I was just super bummed by how so-so my crepe tasted! And my husbands meal was just average. The best thing I got there was the Italian Stallion. I'd definitely go there again for some spiked coffee. But not for crepes.
(3)N B.
Poor service. We ordered 2 soups of the day(vegetable soup) and my friend wanted to order mac and cheese and asked the waiter if it will be ready at the same time as the soup since were in hurry to catch a train. After waiting for 20 min we asked the waiter if the food was ready. He said -'you should've told before"!!! Was the question about bringing mac and cheese in time with the soup not enough??? He should've told us that if some dish is taking longer or something. He didn't give any explanation for his delay. And then he was dilly dallying around and wont even look at us when we asked for our check. He almost made us miss our train. We spent 40 min there for something which should have been done in 15min. Never eating there again. Also the soup tasted awful and wasn't worth the $5.50.
(1)Derek S.
Food is great. Drinks are delicious. Atmosphere is good, though aim to sit inside. The outside seating (more often than not) has proved unsatisfactory due to sewer gas coming from the storm drains nearby.
(4)Dean H.
There can be a wait but it's worth it. Huge craft beer selection, creeps and sandwiches are tasty at a reasonable price. Only downside is the campers who bring their laptops and hangout for hours.
(3)J P.
was here tonight and it was crazy busy. I dont really mind sitting yourself but I do mind when its super busy and people are just sitting with their laptops drinking tea. Or people taking up tables just sitting and talking no food or drink go to Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts. Its way too packed in there for that nonsense espcially during Haunted Happenings it shouldnt be allowed. The food is good not as good as the last time we were here. Ordered the red zen tea it was pretty good and got the Istanbul and it just wasnt as good as I remembered. My partner got the barcelona and she loved it.
(3)Christina M.
If you want to visit a cool cafe with a local artists vibe, Gulu Gulu Cafe is the place for you. It's a seat-yourself kind of place with tables, booths, and lounge spaces for you to choose from. They even sell the art hanging on the walls, if modern art is your thing. My visiting family from the Dominican Republic didn't get it, and proceeded to spend a good 20 minutes laughing about how much money they could make getting their little kids to create the same kind of "art". Well, to each his own! The food itself was a mixed bag for me. The portions were pretty small, so you may find ordering an appetizer or pastry helpful if you are really hungry. The paninis half our table ordered were delicious, and I liked how the sandwiches, wraps, and crepes came with a mixed green salad. It was a tiny salad, but still tasty and appreciated as an extra taste on the plate. However, we were really disappointed by the crepes. I ordered the chicken cordon bleu crepe, and it had an atrocious amount of Dijon mustard that was so spicy it literally cleared my sinuses and made me tear. They were nice enough to take it back and prepare the crepe without the mustard, but it still was a flat square crepe with so-so filling. If you're going for crepes, don't! Gulu Gule Cafe can't hold a candle to the deliciousness that are crepe sandwiches in other places, like Mr. Crepe in Davis Square, for example. If I ever came back I would stick to the panini sandwiches. Or better yet, get a coffee and snack and read a book during off-peak times instead.
(3)Courtney N.
This place doesn't get the credit it deserves. The food is incredible, the beer selection is extensive and interesting, the atmosphere is cool and hip without being off-putting. I lived in Salem for a couple of years, and Gulu was the go-to place for me to bring my out-of-towner friends when they came to visit. Live music, board games, friendly servers who don't get annoyed with my indecisiveness. What more could you want! The meat and cheese coalition is fantastic, and big enough to eat as a meal. The paninis and wraps are delicious (try the Istanbul--best sandwich I've ever had in my life). Cookies are humongous and served warm. I really can't enough good things about this place. Check it out!
(5)Courtney G.
Came here yesterday for lunch and a few beers and I'm glad I did. When we got there is was packed but they offered us a couch to eat and drink at. It was so adorable. My friend and I felt like we were in an episode of friends. We each got a pumpkin beer and I ordered the Lyon Vegitarian panini while my friend ordered the Portobello salad as a wrap. Both were delicious. The best part about our meal I thought was our waitress. She was so sweet and funny. Even when it got busy she still would come over to check on us during our leisurely 2 hour lunch. I don't remember her name, otherwise I'd call her out, but she had short hair and reminded me of what Tinkerbell would probably look and act like. This was one of our first stops in Salem and it really set the mood for the whole day. I definitely recommend it.
(5)Matt W.
Good draft brew selection. Girlfriend had a white mocha. Nice ambiance. A little hard to get a seat inside on a rainy day(^_^)
(4)Amanda G.
Had a very lovely lunch at Gulu Gulu! My savory crepe was divine - the dough itself had fragrant herbs mixed in, and the gruyere chicken, and basil were fresh, with good portions of each. Was a bit disappointed that they were out of d'affinois cheese however, as I think it would have been even better. The blueberrry/brie crepe was a bit less of a hit - the Brie wasn't melted enough but the blueberries were pleasant. Nice latte selection as well. Would certainly go back and try more of the crepes!
(4)Shaun S.
-dog friendly -food was a tad bit $ -decent beer selection -service was super slow like european slow
(4)Michele H.
I have not had a bad dish here. Their smoked salmon and cream cheese plate is incredible. Amazing panini. I love their bread and cheese pairings. Beer is abundant, with craft brews for all. And just a great atmosphere.
(5)Anne S.
This was a stop during our Salem visit. The ambience is great! Very inviting! They had a few good gluten free options for my daughter. She had a roast beef and Swiss on a Gluten free wrap and she loved it. The coffees and crepes were also very good!
(5)Jo-e M.
Our favorite bar in Salem. We have been coming here for a little while (before we moved to Salem) and always liked it - friendly staff, great beer, great location, great food. Can't recommend this place enough
(5)Melissa G.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this place! My go to anytime I am in salem and sometimes I'll even drive to salem just to eat there
(5)E. H.
The service here is painfully slow. And sullen. Where is the sense of urgency? I have been here when it was dead--DEAD--and it took them over half an hour to make a bad crepe. I watched. I was surprised the kid who made it could see through all that ennui. I have heard similar food related horror stories from my friends--soup sent back multiple times to be reheated, only to have it come back cold--but what I really don't like here is the management. They're just...not nice people. I think they've banned two thirds of Salem from this place. That's fine for tourist season, but it's not a good idea to alienate the locals. What happens when the natives get restless?
(1)Donato A.
Excellent food and prices. I love the panini sandwiches. Large selection of beers and very comfortable atmosphere. We love sitting by the windows. No pressure from wait staff to order. One thing for sure is you need to bring back the "PALERMO" panini.
(5)Niki S.
I love the Gulu!! After tonight's Chicken Caesar Wrap, I had to finally sit down and write a review.. Every time I have gone to the Gulu-Gulu, I have enjoyed myself and the chill atmosphere. I really do believe it is their mission for you, their guest, to have a wonderful experience. Come in, relax.. order a beer after breakfast! Why not?! Every visit is what you make it.. The Gulu's Breakfast Sammies are awesome.. Their teas are relaxing.. Decadent coffees, espresssssoooooooo!!! Zoom! I have only had their sweet Banana Chocolate Crepe, but I immediately thought "I should not get addicted to these" I like their sandwiches, but I love their wraps. Plus, the price includes a salad and chips. Right now, I am enjoying a Large Iced Andes Latte.. My server warned that there were three espressos in this bad larry. 16 ounces for four bux?! Sold. You won't find this Peppermint Mocha deliciousness alongside an awesome freakin' wrap at Starbucks. There are so many beverages on the menu that every one in your party will have their something special. Beer, Martinis, Mimosas!?! Imagine your living room with everything at hand.. Wine, Cheese, Apples to Apples and WiFi.. seriously. Go to the Gulu!!
(5)Joey L.
This is an awesome cafe/bar. It was packed and there were people studying, playing board games, having dinner, sipping their coffee, doing work and having a beer. I love their craft beer selection. I also tried the cheese board and it was awesome. Will definitely be back.
(4)GatesofDawn67 M.
I want to amend my review. I have since learn to brew my own espresso and I have gotten pickier. I no longer recommend the Gulu's espresso. See my older review for comments on atmosphere food and service.
(4)Leah N.
Favorite Spot in Salem. I'm only giving it 4 stars because the service is a little slow. The servers are great, but last call 12:45. They take your drinks away at 12:53 (at least that was when mine was taken away.) If it's open until 1, why don't I have until 1 to finish my drink? I don't like having to slam a beer when I get one for last call... ? They do get a little snappy towards bar close as well. I went here for my birthday with a bunch of friends from MN, and we all had a great time. Love the environment, super fun vibe. Just wish the town would extend bar close an hour.. (which is not their fault, although I stand by they could let you have until 1 to finish your drink)
(4)William M.
One of my favorite laid-back places to grab a beer in Salem. It's somewhat of a mix of coffee lounge, sandwich bar, craft beer fest. They're known for their crêpes and ever-changing eclectic and tasteful beer selection. The sandwiches and other foods are consistently tasty, but beware of the dijon mustard. I'm not sure if it's homemade, but it's wicked spicy! Shoots a zinger up my nose and tears up my eyes while overwhelming some bites of my otherwise delicious sandwich. There's wifi, board games, and open mic. night where you can see the odd and creative folks Salem attracts. Some are really good, some are terrible and loud. There are poetry nights, and special events such as independent film showings. The staff is typically hipster, experienced, and seems to turnover almost as often as the beer selection.
(4)Molly O.
Order the BEC on ciabatta toast breakfast sandwich! And the smoothies! I can't say enough good things about the breakfast sandwich. Somehow hearty, yet light, flavorful, and hit the spot for a lazy morning. The wildberry smoothie tasted exactly like black raspberry ice cream and it was dairy free!
(4)Michael C.
One of the tastiest crepes I've ever had. Great menu too!
(4)Jay W.
Great coffee and eclectic decor. The only downside is the customers seemed angry and on edge
(4)Leah O.
This restaurant is definitely my favorite place in town. Not only does it have amazing food and very friendly service, but the beer list is fantastic! And there's always art made by local artists on the walls. Musicians regularly come and perform at the cafe, and the entertainment is usually pretty good. If you have never been to Gulu Gulu, be advised that it is not a place for someone who's in a rush. I go to Gulu Gulu to hang out and drink good beer, so it never bothers me, but sometimes you have to wait a bit for your food.
(5)Thomas N.
This is likely my favorite spot in Salem. The beer selection is incredible and the coffee is outstanding. The service is always exceptional and friendly. Performances are varied and more interesting than most places and there's always a new art show on the walls. The cherry on the top is NO TVs... thank the gods. From their website, it seems that the lack of TVs is intentional to create a more social atmosphere or something to that effect. I like it. It's got relaxed, friendly feel. My only request would be more vegan food, though they do try.
(5)Christina L.
A great place to chill with cool people, have a drink, and something really tasty to eat. Definitely a place to revisit.
(4)Kristine A.
I can't believe in all my years of going to Salem I didn't know this place existed. I am thankful to my friend for moving there & showing me this place. It is so adorable & very down to earth, artsyish & fun. It has a decent size menu & veggie options which is super important for me. I am going to have to make sure to I get here every time I hit up Salem. It's pretty busy like all the time so be prepared for that.
(4)Jennifer T.
Don't understand the great reviews. Trendy spot but so so food and terrible service. Took forever to get the crepe and panini we ordered (not during a busy time). Never got refills on water or iced tea. Food lukewarm when finally delivered.
(2)Jamie S.
Great beer and awesome fresh great eats! My husband and I came here and, delicious!!!! Definitely hope to go again soon! I need to look up Parkin for my next visit.
(4)Fiona I.
We got the red peppers and artichokes tapenade with flatbread as appetizer. It tasted decent until.... We found hair on it!!!It's a shame that such a cute cafe would have such a terrible hygiene. The menu is interesting and has many choices, but the lack of cleanliness is disappointing. The server didn't seem surprised when I showed her the hair inside the tapenade. On top of that, she didn't even bother to apologize for what had happened. Extremely disappointed!!!
(1)Vivian C.
Located directly behind the "Bewitched" statue, the Gulu Gulu Cafe is a nice spot to stop for a snack. If you want to sit outside, let the staff know, but if you want to sit inside, just go ahead and find yourself a seat! A ton of games are available for the borrowing, and you're not hurried along here. It is a nice place to hang out. The high ceiling may have helped the noise to disperse a touch. The $8.00 Strawberry & Nutella Crepe arrived hot and yummy to the table, while the $2 orange cream soda was served in a chilled bottle along with a glass of ice to pour it into. Two individual bathrooms are available per gender, and cute fishes decorated the hallway. When leaving, be careful of the single low lying step!
(4)Eunice R.
I spent my 21st birthday here and it was all that I could have hoped for! Great beer selection, wonderful vibe, and fairly priced. I had their beer sampler and thought that was a great deal. Didn't get to try out their food, but definitely plan on it!
(5)Jody G.
Very cute sandwich shop in walking distance from the Salem Witch Museum. Everything is nice and fresh.... and there is a lot to choose from: crepes, salads, sandwiches, soups..... I had a tuna salad wrap. The tuna was high quality white Albacore with just the right amount of chopped celery and mayo. There was a choice of a white, whole wheat, spinach, or tomato wrap. I chose the whole wheat and it was nice and fresh. The only negative is that there was a lot of lettuce and not enough tomatoes or onions on my sandwich. The lettuce even overpowered the tuna salad a bit. The sandwich was served with a teeny-tiny bit of green salad and some kettle style potato chips. My vote would be to do away with the little bit of salad (since there was so much lettuce in the wrap) and perhaps put a nice pickle on the plate in its place.
(3)Yolanda C.
Having some Chocolate Banana Crepes with Strawberry and powdered sugar. This place has one of the best crepes north of Boston. I'm a huge crepe fan and this place is always my go to crepe place. It is located right in the heart of Salem. A great place to have lunch after walking around and touring Salem. It does get super busy but the wait really isnt that bad. I've been coming here for years and I think the longest I had to wait was maybe 15mins tops. If anyone has relatives or visitors coming into town and are showing them around Salem, don't forget to stop in here.
(5)Rachel D.
Gulu Gulu is as good as Salem gets, and if you're in Salem you're in for a treat - especially if you're a hipster. Gulu Gulu is hipster haven, among many other things. It's got delicious coffee, great sandwiches and snacks, and many little nooks to sit and reach a book or update your blog. The owners are very friendly too, and the wait-staff definitely reflects the aesthetic feel Gulu Gulu set out to achieve. If you're a fan of the Otherside in Boston then Gulu Gulu will win you over.
(4)Nick B.
This used to be my favorite place to go and hang out. Unfortunately I moved out of Salem. I'm not normally a coffee drinker but they do have some really good coffee. The beer list is always changing which is cool. They offer some really good ones. The food here is great. My favorite used to be a panini called the Gruen Muenster. Black forest ham, Muenster cheese, banana peppers and greens. Food can take a while to come out, even if the place is dead, so make sure you have a good amount of time to sit if your planning on eating here.
(5)Brita F.
Outstanding service, Their bruschetta is the best -- They have board games here?! --Haiku review
(5)Thumper B.
Really wanted to like this place because the atmosphere was lovely and the jazz performance was very enjoyable that night. Here's where they need to improve 1) Drink service is super slow. Why does it take 20 mins to get a glass of beer? Something is not working at the bar smoothly. And when we order 2 beers, why does it come out 1 beer at a time to the table? 2) Crepe - So I was really looking forward to the mushroom and (cheese) crepe. So disappointed to find out someone didn't salt the veggies (mushrooms) before putting them in the crepe, making the crepe completely bland. That's cooking 101. Always season the ingredients first. 3) Sausage platter thing my boyfriend ordered...the temperature was weird. It wasn't warm or cold...it was half cold...it just didn't work. It felt off. We liked the pickled onion. That was good. Overall a B- experience for us. I may go back for drinks and music but not for the food.
(3)Gino R.
Food was okay but make sure you have a change of clothes in your cat otherwise all your clothes are gonna be smelling like food.
(3)ginger B.
Each time i go to gu lu if u are seated alone the girls ignore u forever and then never check in with you. If im with friends or my husband its the opposite. Three of my friends and myself have found non food items in our food. Hair. Plastic. Etc and their crepes are minuscule. Fun atmosphere but bad service and not enough food on plate for price
(1)Jennifer E.
For a sandwich shop, this place is top notch. The sandwiches are tasty, hearty, and made with love. The have lots of different kinds to choose from and come with crunchy potato chips and greens. The breakfast section of the menu sounds killer so I'm excited to try it sometime in the future when I'm back in Salem. One of the best parts of the menu is the beverages. They have a large selection of craft sodas, teas, coffee and espresso, and best of all: One hell of a beer selection! They have an extensive draft selection, and you can taste a few of them with a flight. Gulu rocks, and I can see why the reviews are so great. It's casual, fun, and the food is so so good. It's much larger on the inside than I would have thought, but has a cozy feel to it. It's another one of the hot spots in Salem that is also a nice relief from the hordes of tourists and ghost hunters. Slip in, grab a sammy and a brew, and enjoy a friendly chat with one of the cool-as-cucumber staff.
(5)Nate Y.
Came here for breakfast/brunch and was happy I did. With high ceilings physically it's a fairly large space, but with the varied laid back seating and coffee shop vibe it felt real comfortable. They Serve a variety of coffee/teas and sandwiches, but their specialty are the variety of crepes. They have them as breakfast, sweet, and savory. I had the Traditional crepe with bacon, egg, and cheese. Good size, and was tasty, but for me could have a little more filling. My sister had the veggie crepe and it was packed full, oozing with goat cheese. She enjoyed it immensely. My sisters and I also shared the Nutella and banana crepe. LOVED IT. It's possible to hangout here all day into the evening, with a cabinet full of board games, serving wine and beer, and good music playing in the background. Too bad I don't live in Salem :( P.S. If you like Boston terriers and/or pugs then you can buy one for their t-shirts.
(4)John R.
Nice little spot here. Has that laid back, hipster type vibe where you know you could bring in a laptop or some music and hang out for hours. Good food too! We each had a wrap and both were delicious and came with some chips. Just moved to the area and will definitely be back!
(4)Erin B.
If there were a place like this in Somerville, there would be lines of hipsters out the door all the time. It's not a place that was created to be hipster, it's just that hipsters can't help but love it. Anyway, I'm happy that it's in Salem, where hipsters and having good taste and beer are minorities. More room for me when I'm in between classes and want a little treat! There are many things that Gulu does well, but most appreciated are the friendly and knowledgeable service, the tasty crepes, the broad beer selection, and the mostly reasonable prices (relative to Boston area). And they have free Wi-Fi with some comfy chairs and couches, and outlets at the bar! I've never had a bad experience here!
(5)Marina S.
The panini's were delicious- perfectly crispy and flavorful, but my drink was not so good; tasted like what I imagine gasoline would taste like. The name of it was "Starry Night" and it has absinthe and all kinds of chocolate goodness on it but unfortunately that was a fail. Though the idea of their artsy theme is great, the flavor should definitely outshine the name of the cocktail. BUT I would give this place another shot next time im in Salem because I did not try the other cocktails.
(3)Rachel B.
My husband played a live show here and it was one of my favorite New England venues!! Tasty food, huge selection of drinks, full of noise and music. My kind of place. :) I recommend the crepes (tasted both the lemon and banana nutella), cheese and meat plate, also the panini... oh, and the HOT CHOCOLATE. Mmm... it was like one half whip, one half cocoa. So wonderful on a cold winter night. Really nice ambiance and a great place to visit if you're a tourist or just checking out Salem for a short while.
(5)Michael C.
Beerrr
(4)Katherine H.
Love.
(5)Jacquee P.
This is a really lovely place to spend time with a friend and share a meal after a movie. We had the antipasto salad and the Barthelona panini. The ambiance is really inviting and warm. The Monday night we were there everyone was playing board games and eating snacks.
(5)Kate B.
I'm baffled by the fact that this place has four stars. When we arrived, there was plenty of seating available, but we were told it would be a 45-minute wait before we could order food because the kitchen was overworked. Oh, hello, YOU'RE A RESTAURANT. Get your shiz together. We sat anyway, & the server changed her tune, telling us we could go ahead & order - it was like they'd been trying to convince us not to eat there... My friends both ordered the bagels & lox; they were told the bagel selection was very limited. One friend listed four types of bagels she preferred, & asked the server to let her know if none was available. The server, who never reported back, served her a poppyseed bagel, which was not on that list. And neither of them were given cream cheese! WITH LOX & BAGELS! When they asked, the server sounded shocked: "You want cream cheese?" Well, yes, this is a bagel, & we are Jewish. I asked the server for her opinion on two dishes, & ordered the JackMac & Cheese, which she recommended. She returned in 10 minutes to tell me it wasn't available. Just like the bagels, I guess. I ordered a tomato, basil, mozzarella panini instead, thinking it would be tasty no matter what. But... it wasn't a panini. Basically, it was the aforementioned ingredients on bread so toasty it bordered on inedible. It took 20 minutes to get out check. Luckily, we paid in cash. Who knows how long it would've taken to get a credit card back?! No, thanks, Gulu-Gulu. You may try to pass yourself off as a quirky hipster cafe, but if the service & food don't cut it, you can't fool me twice. ___ Addendum: Gulu-Gulu's General manager contacted me via Yelp to apologize for my negative experience. Good customer service, even in the aftermath, goes a long way! I'd now be happy to give Gulu-Gulu the benefit of the doubt on a return visit to Salem. Thanks for reaching out, Laura!
(2)Tanya M.
nice cafe, mellow vibe... great service, good beer menu..
(4)Mallory S.
I have a soft spot for the Gulu. So many great beers on tap and the service is great. I wanted to highlight the service again because the waiter/bartender went out of his way to help us find an additional chair and get our order in before the kitchen closed on a Friday night. My warning still stands: If you are going to the Gulu Fri/Sat night and are staying for the entertainment (starts at 9pm) be warned it may not be your style. Sometimes it is funky and unique is a good way and sometimes it is awful. Never a dull moment!
(4)Anthony M.
Great beer selection, and an eclectic menu. Ambiance is super laid back, and it definetly comes across that this place is based on a Prague cafe. You can hit GG for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or just some snacks and brews and always have a great experience. Comforting and relaxing are two words I would use to describe the Gulu Gulu Cafe.
(5)Zoe S.
We arrived here on an early weekend morning after a red eye flight from SF. The first two places on our list were boarded up. We were promptly seated and had hot coffee in front of us within seconds. I ordered a crepe that I honestly don't remember what was in it. When it arrived I thought I mistakenly ordered a burrito. The crepe was as thick as a flour tortilla and there was no sauce. There was a slice of orange though. That was the driest thickest crepe I ever had. We never saw our waitress again nor did our coffee cups ever get filled again. It took forever to get our check. I'm glad we were only visiting. We should have just went to Dunkin Donuts,there is one on every block.
(1)Amanda C.
Gulu Gulu Cafe is one of those great spots to stop and rest your feet when you are having a touristy day in Salem. I will say, I did judge the book by its cover in a positive way because who doesn't like french bulldog mascots? There is a wide variety of craft beers on tap. No Bud, Coors or Miller products are to be seen anywhere. I always think highly of an establishment when they go the extra mile to provide local spirits. The food looked great on the menu. I was not hungry at the time, but I did enjoy a piece of pumpkin bread. 2 thick, warm slices of bread plus a coffee = a great afternoon treat. Next time I am back in Salem, I will be in for dinner!
(4)Joe P.
The greatest café on earth! I figured when they went to Salem from Lynn and got super busy all the time they would jack up their prices and give you less food, which is only kind of true. But still the best there is! Every time I've gone here I'll try something different and I have yet to be let down. Their beer selection is also a beer snobs wet dream.
(5)Less H.
I have to say I've been to the Gulu Gulu quite a few times since my last review. They have cleaned which is a plus and I've had a chance to sample their beer offering. On the coffee side of life, you are missing out on a perfect Americano if you don't get one here. IF you drink coffee the Gulu Gulu Americano is a must have beverage. It's that good. It is the Americano I judge all others by. Last weekend I bellied up to the bar and chatted with a friend for hours whilst we sipped some great beers. So now I have a new watering hole and a place to get caffeinated. The food here is good too. I have not been disappointed in anything I've gotten here. I am still in love with the turkey and arugula sandwich and all the stuffed crepes I've ordered. If you don't like hipsters, Gulu Gulu is not for you. If you are an aging hipster who likes good beer and coffee Gulu Gulu is for you. (After my last review, the owner emailed me and said they were going to clean, and they did, the cobwebs are gone. I think its great when a business owner deals directly with customers and then ACTUALLY follows up on what they say they will do. Gulu Gulu has won my undying love for doing as they say they will, that and having a great menu and delicious beverages.)
(5)Paloma M.
Cute cafe in historic Salem. We sat outside and was really pleasant! Turkey sandwich was great and my coffee was also pretty good! I really enjoyed it!
(4)John C.
Great service. It is a good after work for a snack and a couple beers. Menu is limited but delightful.
(4)Morgan D.
Perfection. I am a avid lover of cafes and sulk regularly about the lack of great cafes in my area. I love Starbucks, but that. does. not. count! Let me preface by saying, I visited the town of Salem last summer and feel in love. I pretty much have a passionate love affair with all of New England. I truly think it's so incredible and maybe I'm a little sad I didn't grow up there....anyyyywho....I love this town and think it's adorable so imagine my surprise when my friend took us to a cafe there. This place was great!! We all ordered lattes (which come in great cutesy mugs), a sandwich platter, and wow, one of the most amazing dessert crepes. It was raining on the day we went and the cafe was the perfect place to be: high ceilings, huge floor to ceiling windows, large chalkboards with all their food/beverage items listed, amazing servers. If I lived here, I would be a regular. Another plus, turns into a bar at night (more of an intellectual bar, per se)
(5)Beverly H.
We came in for lunch at about 1:30 on Sunday. We were greeted and seated right away, were given menus and had our order taken in a timely fashion... and then ignored for half an hour. Drinks appeared after fifteen minutes, then nothing. When we finally flagged down a waitress (not ours, who had been doing her best to stay clear), we were told that "Right after you ordered so did everybody else," which is not actually a valid excuse. We noticed that people who were ordering later were told that the kitchen was backed up and that there would be a thirty-minute wait for cooked food, and most people were fine with that, as we would have been had anyone said anything. It dosn't take much effort to drop by a table, apologize for the delay, explain about the kitchen, and see if anyone would like a refill on drinks. Avoiding eye contact for half an hour isn't a professional way to act. Having said that however, when the food arrived it was fantastic, as always. The kitchen may be slow, but they know what they're doing. Now if someone could explain a few things to the staff.
(4)Smooth D.
The crepes were perfect! The service was okay, the first waitress neglected us completely, so another waitress helped us out. This seems to be a theme even at other tables. I expected the place to be nice and warm and toasty since it was so cold out but my hands never warmed up, even after running them under hot water in the bathroom. Very cute decor. Good food. Better service and warmer temp would have made the place perfect!
(3)Jennifer S.
Really cool atmosphere, and different selections. Had a very nice breakfast crepe, servers were very friendly, a little slow, but that did not take away from the experience. I would definitely return.
(4)Steward P.
Pretty good stuff here. Good vibe in the place, sometimes they play movies on a big screen which is cool, but they don't put the sound up enough. Their drinks are great, their sandwiches are delicious, good snacks, they gotta a lotta good beers. I've seen some decent bands playing there before, and I know people say sometimes they would have a free Wii to play! The only downside is the place does get filled with a buncha trendy obnoxious salem/college/hipster doofuses. Expect to see a bunch of "ironic" mustaches, smelly kids in leather with mohawks, or thick framed glasses on the nerds on their iPads. Besides that, this is a great place to get a snack and chill out for a bit.
(4)Derek G.
My experience here was horrible, it is literally the sole reason I made this account. People need to be warned. YOU WANT TO TALK ABOUT A PLACE FULL OF BIGOTS? Lets talk about Gulu cafe. The staff; from the moment I walked through the door I felt like I was nothing but a waste of their time. And that's when they're actually taking the time to help you. God forbid you have to flag someone in the waitstaff down for something, because its not answered with a,"I'll be right with you sir or may'em" instead your acknowledged with a lift of the chin and a "ya, I'll be right there". Now, I understand a place can have "regulars" or waitstaff can have friends but give me a break. If the one in particular, chubby guy with the mustache would have taken ten seconds of his time to do his job rather than hang with his friends or the "regulars" this review may have gotten another star or two. But give me a break. My experience was, "here are your drinks, did you look over the menu? No, ok ill give you another 15-20 minutes since you obviously cannot read very well. And I'll just go talk to my friends over here for a while with my back to you and ignore you until I feel like it." Checks in some time later and someone else had beat him to it. "Great so now I'm done with you for the evening, moving on. Talks to friends some more. Well there's my review, for the price you pay and the service you get. Don't bother leaving a tip. I think it's factored into the overpriced beer and food already anyways.its got to be. I had to leave my money and get out of there because there was no chance they were coming to get the check for at least an hour or two.
(1)Johnny P.
GREAT SPOT Went our first night in Salem and returned 2 more times (2x dinner once drinks) one of the best beer selections and pricing I've found Staff is friemndly, great vibe and we caught an awesome band there at night If your in Salem skip the tourist traps and go here!
(5)Jim M.
Pros: BEST beer selection in the state(on draft and in the bottle). I had a rare Czec beer that I've only seen in Prague. AND it was on draft!!! **** Also, really hip/cool atmosphere and cool waitstaff. Cons: the food is just so/so. I've had grilled sandwiches as well as choco-banana crepes and, while they were very fresh, were lacking flavor. Also, on a busy day, you'll wait a WHILE for your meal. I waited 45 minutes for said grilled sandwich once. Still, worth a trip to sip some suds and chill.
(3)Rachel M.
Food is ok, portions are relatively small, but whatever -- my waistline needs to be conditioned to eating smaller EVERYTHING. I like the board game selection, and the atmosphere is totally hipster. Service is awful, though. My boyfriend and I came here one rainy Friday and we waited 30 minutes to even be acknowledged at our self-seated table with menus. We were about to get up to leave when we were finally greeted by a not-so-friendly waitstaff who practically tossed us our menus. Won't be coming back here.
(2)Michael D.
Ok, you've read the reviews about the beer selection and I'm going to start off by saying it's top notch. You won't find a better beer menu on the North Shore. It's always a treat walking in there simply to see what they have on tap or in bottles. It changes constantly so be sure to ask the waitress or the bartender for up to date beer menus. I've visited this place for breakfast, lunch and dinner and it succeeds on all fronts. The breakfast menu has a wide selection from your traditional breakfast sandwiches to crepes of all styles. They have a selection of pastries but the tastiest is the cinnamon swirl but you have to get there early enough because that's usually the first pastry to sell out. The coffee is delicious too and the mugs give you a great serving size of coffee or tea if you prefer. The lunch and dinner menu are pretty much the same. The meat and cheese combo is a great order, allowing you to choose which meats and cheeses you would like to have. I really enjoyed it but felt it was more to snack on than for a meal. I usually order the chicken ceasar wrap with chips. Its tasty and keeps me full for a long time. To warn you, this place is a hangout spot so the servers do take their time between visiting your table but I've never felt forgotten or mistreated. So, if you go don't be in such a rush. Reeeeeelax a bit. Also, seating can be tough on the weekends especially around lunch time so plan accordingly. Outdoor seating area is also available if you want to enjoy a beautiful day while you eat.
(4)Jeff P.
Wow, the Barcelona Panino was amazing. Nice service too!
(4)Kristi W.
I love Gulu Gulu Cafe. It is a great place to sit, chill, talk, and people watch. At night they have live music and the scene is very chill and relaxed. They have an awesome selection of beer and the staff is very friendly. My only complaint about this place is sometimes the servers are a bit slow with your order or to get your check. But other than that ... I love this place. The sandwiches are great and I love the coffee!
(4)Alex P.
One of my very favorite spots to hangout in Salem. They have, by far, the best import beer selection in town, great mixed drinks, and awesome coffee, not to mention, fun, eclectic food, which is great for sharing. Whenever we bring new people to Salem, the Gulu-Gulu is at the top of the list of places to go!
(5)Tom F.
Just had lunch here -- I was surprised at how good it was. This place is very kid-friendly and casual -- sort of reminds me of a place you'd find in San Francisco or Seattle. Laid back and, dare I say, almost hip . An extensive beer list -- from all around the world and country (bottles and draft). I had a Hop Notch IPA (from a brewery in Salt Lake City) -- the waitress recommended it. And it was delicious. Then, an Italian Panini and Lentil soup -- both were better than what I expected. The sandwich came with kettle chips and a little salad with italian peppers. The Lentil soup had a kick of curry and spice, and was really savory. The waitress was helpful, friendly and came over just the right amount of times. Very good.
(4)renae T.
5 stars for a great night out! 3 stars (being generous) for food. We read the reviews, and we're ready for service issues and a wait. We ended up finding a seat immediately, and had prompt service. Pros: kale soup, service (though didn't know much about the beer selection, we didnt care) the vibe, the latte, the games, and the music! We were there for hours! Cons, the rest of the food...mushy fruit salad, cold panini, sausage app (cold...yuck), and the crepe. Re crepe: this tasted good, but anything drowned in nutella will taste pretty good. We are crepe people and make them often. The dough here was tough, chewy. They should be light, delicate, and thin. Bottom line, we would definately go back for the pros, and hope they just had an off dy on the food.
(4)Kevin D.
The perfect mid-town cafe. Good bandwidth from free wi-fi. Excellent house coffee - no need for fancy espresso drinks. Wonderful young people serving the tables with just the right amount of good cheer. None of that phony stuff. For those that work outside their offices and need a place to plug in, connect and have a drink & a snack, this place is for you. Thanks to DP for the tip.
(4)Camille R.
I'm so used to these places staffing obnoxious hipster kids, but maybe because Salem doesn't house many hipsters this spot lucked out. Everyone I've spoken to behind the counter has been really down to earth and friendly. A plethora of tea, coffee, and beer options and really yummy desserts. They play good music throughout the day and there's plenty of space to hang out and chill for the afternoon, or evening. Live music some nights, so keep an eye out for the chalkboard that lists upcoming shows. I've had some lunch foods here: bruschetta, mac and cheese, and a sandwich. They were just okay. But the desserts!! Did I tell you about the desserts??
(4)Rich T.
LOVED IT! Awesome place, and great sandwiches.
(5)Robbo O.
The food and coffee at Gulu are good - five star for what they are (it's a panini, fercrissakes!) - but I have a chip on my shoulder about their abandoning their spot in Lynn, which admittedly didn't do nearly the business they do in Salem, but made for a more peaceful experience for me, and I'm all about me...ME ME ME! It's also a downer for me that Gulu in Salem is almost always packed to the rafters, so as a frequent solo diner, I'll either be at the bar, which I dislike a lot, or on a sofa with a stranger (I can deal with that alright). It's not a very comfortable space when crowded: The acoustics are very loud and echoey, the bar seats are hard on my boney runner's ass, and the bar not deep enough to comfortably eat a meal, and it's pretty dark in there unless you score a seat by the window. The service people have always been fine, if a bit cursory because of the crowds they're juggling. All in all, it's a matter of wild success snatching the fifth star. I think the proprietors can live with that. Bottom line: On a Tuesday afternoon, when there is a tornado watch in effect, this is a great place to relax over crepes and lattes!
(4)Lucy S.
Love this place! The only downside is seating fills I past. Great list of beers-very wide selection. Come for the crepes they're amazing!
(4)Robert M.
This place is terrible. It has become very successful because it has become a mecca for local hipsters. The food is okay. The staff are the rudest people I have met in the planet.They had an open mic there one night and my friend was performing so I brought all my camera gear and set up. One of my friends asked me to bring a keyboard out to his car. whenI returned they told me I had to wait to get in. I informed that I had already been and that half my camera gear was in the restaurant already. the woman then started yelling at called another woman over who was apparently the manger who told me she was going to call the police on me. Eventually I was able to have a friend grab most of my camera gear. This place blows (pardon my language) but I have no other way expressing how much I hate this place. It's in incredible clicky trendy hipster atmosphere and staff is insufferable. If your a rich art student looking for a hipster hang out. Then this is the place for you. If not I would recommend finding another coffee shop in town. Like the Front Street Coffee shop. Their place might be small but their coffee is great and your treated like a person when you go there. p.s. Notice the Owners statement below trying to discredit my review, but if you scroll around you'll notice I'm not the only person on here that has had trouble with the staff. I am no way a trouble maker if you want better review treat your customers with respect.
(1)Susan R.
I was literally right there when Quinn E was turned away from the gay night, and when the DJ kicked us out of the table where we had spent WAY too long waiting for food/drinks and spent a LOT of cash. Admittedly, it was ridiculous and horrible, and I can understand Quinn's 3 star rating given the bad time had by all of our group. However, I have been back several times since and have to give it a 4. Why? Well... for starters, they have great cheese platters and the best beer menu I have seen outside of Boston... i mean... really really good beer. Also, they play movies on certain nights, have a monthly gay tea dance (never been, since I fear being rejected again from a Salem gay party), an array of DJs, live bands, probably an open mic night (though I would rather rip my own eardrums out than attend a rural open mic night) and are generally a cool place in the early evening hours to have beer, tea, cheese, paninis... etc etc. If i were a teen or a college kid up in Salem, this would be BY FAR the best hang out within a 20 mile radius, and for that, i have to give them 4 stars. Let me take you back and we can have a nice, normal, non-halloween time at Gulu Gulu. You will see that it's pretty cool... all things considered.
(4)Aubrey P.
An adorable and cozy spot. The second you walk in you feel at home. There are tables, couches and board games. I got an iced coffee which was great! And... COCONUT MANGO CHEESECAKE!! it was some of the best cheesecake I have ever had. It was two layers and you could actually taste both favors. Prices were great. Both for about 8$ They also have many yummy beers on tap and I have many a friends who rave about this place. Would go again. Also... A pug and boxer are the cafe's mascots. Can't beat that!!!
(5)jenna f.
Terrible customer service skills. I wrote to the owner and general manager regarding my concerns and neither one took the time to reply. Edit*** owner and manger responded after seeing this post. Listened to nothing I said and took word of a server that lied. Probably only contacted me because I left one star. If I could leave half a star I would.
(1)Joey J.
Easily the best place to grab a bite in Salem - and excellent proof that we made the right decision when moving to the area. Their beer menu is exceptional, the atmosphere warm and welcoming, and even their breakfast menu is remarkable. Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner - go to Gulu Gulu - you won't regret it.
(5)Karen A.
I'm not a drinker so I haven't tried the tons of beer there, but the sandwiches are good & the atmosphere is fun! You can eat outside if the weather is nice enough & it's close to many of the sights. I would definitely suggest this to anyone looking for a good lunch!!
(5)Su R.
Pretty amazing on many counts. large , so plenty of room to move around. the menu seems to keep getting better, and even included alcohol! coffee, tea, or booze, yes. it can be kinda loud at times, there was a group of girls in the middle of the place the other day that were obnoxiously chatting and laughing away. . there is often live music events here at night. Crepes=fab. I had the smores crepe with nutella instead of chocolate= drool. my friend loved the veggie wrap. oh and the creme brulee latte= yummmmmm
(4)Francesca G.
One of my new favorite places. Went here for breakfast and then for drinks at night during my stay in Salem. I loved the atmosphere and live music. The beer selections were amazing, coffee drinks were great, and food was equally as good.
(5)S L.
Went here a ton. Great place to escape the touristy crap Salem banks on. Really wish they had better bands play...some of the crap on a saturday night was unbearable to sit through. The beer is priced really well so when I'd go here (once a week) we'd get high percent beers and hang outside (the outside seating is the best part) to people watch. Veggie options were great, wish they changed up some of their stuff and served breakfast options all day.
(3)Jenn B.
Hipster vibe, varied selection beers and on a weekend morning nice bloody mary! The smoked salmon is deeeeelicious! Has a peppered rub. So good on a bagel with all the goods (onions, lettuce etc) on a Saturday morning after a one two many cocktails from the night before. Only down fall service can be a bit slow....
(4)Mindy L.
I think this place is tops! Went here because the last trip to Salem we made a mental note that we wanted to come back and give it a try. Couldn't resist heading up to the North Shore on a bright, beautiful and sunny Sunday! We ordered the Cheese & Meat Platter (choice of 8 different cheeses and 5 different meats). For only $9.00 you get your choice of three. We decided on the fresh mozz and herb & oil soaked brie and the genoa salami. The platter comes with fresh toasted ciabatta bread and they are not skimpy on the portions! We got 3 huge slices of mozz, an entire wedge of brie and a bunch of salami. It was delicious. For my lunch entree I decided on the "Istanbul" - fresh mozz, turkey, tomato and pesto. The plate comes not only with the largest panini I've ever seen, but also a side salad and a handful of Cape Cod potato chips. Mmm. Everything was so fresh and the portions were beyond generous. The vibe here is ecclectic - bright yellow walls, strange art, funky furniture. They also have board games you can play on those rainy days as well as live music.
(4)Courtney F.
We really enjoyed our visit to the Gulu Gulu Cafe while touring Salem. The atmosphere was laid back and the service was prompt. The best part was that they offered gluten-free pie. I got the apple pie and it was pretty close to the real thing. I would definitely go back if we lived in the area.
(4)Siervo J.
The food is definitely not good. I will never go back to this cafe. People should go to other places before saying that this place is good. totally disappointed!
(1)Amelia L.
Yummy and delish! The bloody Mary was SO good! I had a fantastic crepe with egg, cheese and bacon. I was sad that I was only able to go once!
(4)Christina A.
This place is very hipster with yummy sandwiches and a stellar selection of craft beers. They are the only place in the area that does crepes. They do dessert crepes and savory ones. My only complaint is that they need to serve ice cream with their dessert crepes. I got the s'more crepe and it was too much chocolate and marshmallow and felt like it was missing something. It's a nice place to go for a casual meal or drink. The music at night can be a little strange for my taste. They have open mic night on Wed. nights from 8-11. It can get really crowded that night and on Friday and Saturdays. Overall this place is good.
(4)Janet H.
Stopped by here during a visit to Salem. The place is casual and friendly. The waiter and waitress that helped us were very attentive and made sure we were happy with our drinks and food. I ordered the banana and nutella crepe and absolutely loved it.
(4)Chelsea L.
Next time you find yourself in Salem, do not miss getting brunch at Gulu Gulu cafe. It is a great, offbeat cafe that does not take itself too seriously. I'll be honest, normally anything that hints at hipster has me running for the hills. I blame Harvard Square for putting the bad taste in my mouth. What's great about the alternative atmosphere at Gulu Gulu is that at no point does it feel like they're trying to be different, they just are. You can tell that every member of the staff truly enjoys what they do. From the tattooed rock a billy waitresses to the long haired boys in skinny jeans every one is extremely friendly and helpful. When my waitress helped me select a local draft it was because she was passionate about the menu, not because it was her job. I have been twice now, once with my little sister who is easy to please, and once with my mother and her friend who is never pleased. Everyone loved it! Both times I had the bagel and lox (creature of habit) and it was wonderful. My sister had the cheese plate and judging by the samples I filched from her plate it was tasty as well. If you live in Boston, Gulu Gulu is worth making the trek for, even if you have no either reason to be in Salem. You will not be disappointed.
(5)James L.
Best beer selection in town. Staff is friendly and knows about beer. Almost always have hard to find beers, whether on tap or in bottles. And the Jack Max'n Cheese is the most delicious thing I've ever had.
(5)Amanda M.
they dont have a lot on the menu but the things they do have are are unique. I got some turkey panini sandwich with i think swiss cheese, dijon mustard, some greens, and an apple spread. The apple and mustard complimented each other so nicely. It gave my tastebuds a little dance with each bite. The turkey also had a good honey smoked flavor. Thier soda was from a local brewery called mercury. I got a diet cola which was a little sweeter then coke and had kind of a peppery taste. Very good. My boyfriend also got a steak chilli which was good too.They have outdoor seating as well.
(5)Casey F.
Great beer, friendly staff, good place to hang out.
(4)Bob D.
Look - there are restaurants that have booze and there are bars with food. Gulu is a bar with (good) grub....but a bar first; as for the reviews here complaining that the food was subpar or the table service was sketchy? Yeah, you missed the point. You're in a bar. If you want dinner you should have gone to Church St....and please take your screaming 9 year old kid while you're at it - at least he has the common sense to realize he doesn't belong at a bar. On the OTHER hand, if you want a bar? Keep reading.... So, you're out for drinks? Good, life is short - let's enjoy it. Now Gulu isn't Drink or Eastern Standard; if you want a bow tied, handlebar mustachioed bartender mixing up wild tinctures with exotic liquors you're going to head elsewhere. Gulu sells beer. ....but, man, do they sell it. Quite possibly my favorite BEER bar in the area. The selection is phenomenal and changes rapidly. No InBev, no Boston Beer Co, no Coors-Miller: awesome imports and microbrews. The bartenders speak beer and, better still, will speak to you about it. The music is eclectic (go online and make sure it speaks to you) as is the crowd. Always pretty friendly, though. Plus, as folks have said, the food is solid for a bar; kinda hipstery - no hamburgers but good crepes. Oh, and tip the bartender. They make the magic happen.
(5)Alex W.
Hands down the best beer selection in the area, The Gulu is frequently jam packed with its younger, more "hipster" clientele. It is a very lively and relaxed atmosphere and the place is scattered with arm chairs, couches, and benches. It is seat your self and if you want food it can take a while to come out. That being said the food is also a bit expensive however it is well worth it with dishes ranging from excellent grilled sandwiches to make your own cheese and meat plates and both savory and sweet crepes. Unfortunately they do not have a full liquor licensee so mixed drinks are out, however their many craft beers and specialty martinis are a good alternative. The Gulu plays host to bands, open mic nights, comedians, and is also an art gallery, ensuring its always a lively spot. On the other end of that don't expect to have quiet conversation or leave the place without spending some money.
(3)Tom P.
First of all, I can't believe someone would give this place only 2 stars because the music was loud on a live music night. Anyway, I fully agree this is the coolest place to hang out in Salem-area, and no, you don't have to have tattoos or a hip outift to have fun. Just a good attitude. Generally, you get what you give out in terms of how you are treated. That said, of course the live music is always goiong to be hit-or-miss: it's not Comcast Center. But when it's good, it's real good. When it's not so good...well, there are plenty of other cafes in Salem to hang out in that evening... Dozens of beers you've probably never heard of. Try the Kôlsch, Pork Slap, or Delerium Tremens, which is a crisp, refreshing beer with hints of pear, clove and banana. WOWEE Great wine selection, delicious sandwiches, cheeses and salads, and fast- friendly service where the servers actually work as a unit instead of individuals. This supremely enhances the customer experience, to all other servers reading this review... They also have a glass case loaded with board games and a huge table in the middle of the room to play them on. Comfy couches, old chairs, and a very inviting, open and "cool" atmosphere, this place is more of a must-visit in Salem than any witch musuem or haunted house.
(4)Brynn C.
This place was super great. We loved our food (I had a cheese plate, she had a lox bagel), the atmosphere was great, the selection was well thought out, the staff was attentive and helpful.
(5)Hilary W.
I wish I could give them 5 stars, because the food really did deserve that! My grape leaf wrap was amaaaazing (a bit expensive but that's ok). It was the service that knocks my review down two stars. Our server was seriously not with the program! She kept on blaming the kitchen and saying how busy they had been earlier...Ok, it's 3pm and we're here for two wraps. It should not take 45 minutes, even if you were busy earlier! She completely forgot about a table next to us and they had to get their menus themselves. I would go back for the delicious food, but mentally prepare myself for way too long of a wait for a sandwich.
(3)Felicia K.
Holeee shit. I'm sure I can't really write anything that hasn't already been written. The food and drink are 5 stars; lost a star for mediocre, but friendly service. Can be hard to get a seat sadly, but definitely worth the wait if it isn't too ridiculous.
(4)Katherine H.
great healthy food. my friends tell me that its to "hipster" but why should it matter the food is awesome and everyones nice to you! Love the Gulu Always. PS They should bring back the Sunday night drag shows those were a lot of fun. :)
(5)Roman K.
Awesome place with delicious crepes (guys, use more salt!!!) and huge Cappuccinos.
(4)Milana G.
Awesome. Great atmosphere and an amazing menu. I am basically obsessed with paninis (who isn't though...) and the Barcelona was the best panini I've had in months. Even their chips were killing it...crispy, but not too salty or oily. And they had hot apple cider, PERFECT for the snowy mess that was going on outside. The chocolate/nutella/banana dessert crepe was a phenom too, but good luck saving room to eat it! I thought I was gambling, taking my mentor here for lunch, but I was seriously impressed and so was she! Can't wait to go back!!!
(5)Christopher M.
I've long said that the measure of great service is not how you're treated when everything goes well, but how you're treated when things fall apart. I've also been elite for quite some time now. I've written my fair share of one and two star reviews. In four years, I've gotten quite used to owner/management feedback. The reactions have been mixed, from ambivalence to anger, concern to caring. I've been invited and enticed back, thanked for my feedback, sworn at, and all but banned from two establishments (though one I still won't go near for fear of castration). But today the bar was set exponentially higher for managers who take customer feedback seriously. No there were no bands or roped off areas for me. I didn't receive special treatment. No one kissed my ass. Instead, the manager came over to me, smiled and greeted me, then joined me for lunch. We chatted about life, careers, and of course customer service. I told her about my experiences here from the past several years both good and bad. We talked about what makes great customer service, and things that can get in the way. I'm still stunned by her concern and drive to correct all issues here. I can't say enough about her sincerity, and her love of this cafe that drives her to make it better every day. I'm rarely taken aback by management especially when I've have less than stellar experiences, but today's lunch really made me realize that this is the same Gulu-Gulu cafe I fell in love with years ago, it's just growing and expanding, and changing for the better. Sadly, that sometimes means new employees who need a bit more guidance and time to get into a solid groove. But with a solid manager at the helm who takes customer feedback seriously and uses it to correct issues immediately I'm convinced that the bumps I felt will be VERY short-lived. Of course an establishment can't earn five stars based solely on its manager. The cafe is relaxed, fun, inviting, and calming. The beer selection is excellent. The tea is fantastic. The menu is wonderful, and features and wonderful meat and cheese selections, fun paninis, and fantastic desserts. Really, this place is a gem.
(5)Jim H.
I loved this place. I had the meat and cheese plate for lunch. It was the perfect selection for lunch. They have an awesome selection of beer. Try the cheese plate and enjoy a beer or two. If so inclined, try a salad or a sandwich. They look awesome also.
(4)Chelsea C.
I love the gulu gulu cafe! such a cute little place! GREAT service! and nice employees! I love hanging out with my friends there! It's a great place to mellow out and relax.
(5)Lisa N.
This is a cute place. I love the ambiance. The Chai Tea isn't the best, I wouldn't get it again. However, the tuna melt was good! They also had a lot of beers on tap and I can't recall what the bf ordered, but it was good! Service was great. Their "mascot" was a bulldog so they have pictures of him up on the wall and on their beer cups. Cute!
(4)Michele G.
Chicken pesto crepe is gigantic! Cool place to settle in among the other laptop warriors and get some grub. Love it that they host art openings and serve not just caffeine, but booze.
(3)Chubbs L.
Great place! The beer selection is second to none and the food is also very good. I enjoy the surroundings and the people who work there. It's one of the few places I feel like I can sit at the bar and relax. They always seem to have an excellent selection of imperial and regular ipa's on draft as well.
(5)Tristan H.
This restaurant spent too much money on trying to look cool and hip that they forgot how to be a restaurant. Pitiful service. My French Onion soup had a slice... That's right... A slice of SWISS cheese on it.
(2)Julie C.
Gulu Gulu- gulp gulp. If anything, come here for the beers. They have a really good beer list and there is something for everyone. Of course, sometimes the specials they list are sold out. Bummer! Grab a seat at a table or even the couches and relax. My bf and I came here and sat on the couch, order a couple of the Fisherman's Pumpkin Stout and goofed around while playing trivial pursuit.. We also ordered the hummus and veggie plate along with tabouli.. the veggies were fresh and crisp. Having already ate at another place, we didn't really get to try anything. Out server was really nice and bothered us at the right times, when our glasses were empty. I really enjoy the chill atmosphere of Gulu Gulu. It has a really cool vibe. This is definitely a great spot to grab a few drinks and enjoy your company.
(5)Christie N.
My wife and I come here all the time. We love this place so much that we went here for our post-wedding brunch. I also spent many hours here studying for the bar - the waitresses are very cool about letting you linger and are very attentive. The food is consistently amazing and fresh, and the beer selection is expansive. (Only one complaint - the restrooms need a good cleaning. Probably totally not their fault though because it looks like they share bathrooms with the restaurant next door.) All in all, though - this place rocks. And anyone we take here loves it and wants to come back as a regular. My favorites: The bagel and lox platter, cheese & meat board, bruschetta, and of course - crepes!
(4)E S.
Nice lunch spot! Went this past weekend between appointments for an earlier lunch. We were seated right away, but service in general was on the slow side (seemed like there was only one, maybe two, servers taking care of the whole place, inside and out). Food was creative, but simple. A delicious turkey-pesto-mozz-tomato panini came with the unexpected bonus of a small greens salad and chips. And the chicken Caesar salad was nice too- spinach instead of lettuce and nice dressing on the lighter side. Overall, worth the price, and a comfortable place to spend some time. Cozy and kitschy without being too hipster.
(4)Kristin C.
We came here for a late lunch and left quite satisfied. Pros: Great selection of draft beers, delicious food, reasonable prices, fun atmosphere Cons: Service was quite slow. Don't come here if you're in a rush! Also, while self seating might work during a less busy time of year, we found it to be a bit awkward on a Saturday in October. I'd highly recommend getting a cheese plate! You can choose any 3 cheeses for $9, served with toasted ciabatta. The husband and I both had paninis ($8-9) which came with chips and a nice little side salad. Despite the slow service, we'd definitely go back!
(4)Kristin W.
Great beer. Delicious crepes. Yummy paninis. You really can't go wrong... Unless you're turned off by some interesting local characters. Fave Beers: -Southern Tier Unearthly Imperial IPA, (NY) - draft -Weihenstephaner Vitus, 16.9oz (GER) - bottle Fave Eats: -The Essjay Panini -Portobello Mushroom, Spinach and Basil Crepe -Barcelona Panini And, for what it's worth, I am determined to become a regular at Gulu Gulu.
(4)Rachel P.
I've come to love the Gulu over the past two years - I didn't think I would like this hipster cafe that doesn't even have ketchup, but you can't deny good food. I always get a cheese & meat plate, and the chicken cordon bleu crepe is delicious. I'm not a beer drinker at all, and I've even found 2 I like at the Gulu! You can hang out and play games or use the wi-fi as long as you want (just tip your server for the space, please).
(5)Jennifer L.
Gulu Gulu is one of my favorite places to relax with a cold beverage, a crossword puzzle, & people watch. It's nestled into a cozy location in the heart of downtown Salem, has friendly helpful staff, & an impressive beer menu featuring multiple local brews. Being vegan, I can't speak much to the food; I had the hummus dish & thoroughly enjoyed it.
(5)Jason N.
I love the gulu. I only get there every few months but it's worth it! They have great sandwiches and specialty crepes which are always great. They also have musicians and open-mic nights every week and theres a schedule for those on their website. Just be warned it does get very crowded for those events. The reason I'm bumping it down to 4 stars is because some of the servers are super pretentious. It's a wicked hipster hangout. Sometimes it's alright but other times it can make you feel a bit uncomfortable if you're not the artsy type.
(4)Kaitlin B.
We visited Gulu Gulu twice during a weekend stay in Salem. The first was late night for drinks with a large group. The selection was great, but service was a little slow and my fiance was served a beer that was definitely not what he ordered. We went back again in the morning for breakfast and were very underwhelmed. The service was incredibly slow and the food was mediocre. I wouldn't go back for more than drinks.
(2)Jessica W.
Eh. I don't hate it. The food is really great, when you finally get a table, but it is a bit over crowded most of the time. They have really great cheese plates that come with a ton of stuff. You can choose 3 cheeses for $9 with toasted bread. They don't have a full bar, which for me is a bit of a downer. I am not a huge beer drinker, but if you are you'll love the beer selection. Though they have a chocolate martini that is LITERALLY one of the best drinks I've ever had. Overall, the food is great it's just too crowded most of the time.
(3)Jamie P.
This is really a 3.5 star review. I enjoy this place because it has great beers on tap and the food is delicious. The Paninis are some of the best around. They also have board games which can be really fun when your drinking with some friends! I also love that it's a different scene from every other bar in Salem. However the entertainment is really hit and miss. Some bands are entertaining and some are terrible. We have seen a few acts that are just painful to listen too. All that being said, I will definitely be back to the Gulu Gulu.
(3)Kelly A.
Gulu-Gulu is Salem is a great place to hang out and grab drinks with friends. There's really cool artwork on the wall, the staff is really nice, the music is fantastic, and the menu is very veg-friendly. I went there for dinner last night with the boy, and then a friend joined us for drinks post-food. Vegetarian grape leaves were great (served with hot pita triangles and yogurt). The mac and cheese (smallish appetizer portion, served alongside a bit of greens) mixes roasted red peppers, cheddar, and goat cheese into a decent elbow dish. Wraps are pretty good. Banana Chocolate crepe is fantastic. Iced tea is strong, freshly-brewed, and lovely. Beer list is fairly extensive. Sometimes they have live music, and sometimes they show movies.
(4)Tim A.
Cool atmosphere, good food selection, great beer list. The service has been really good every time I've been here. There aren't a lot of good options for vegetarians in Salem, so this place stands out.
(4)Amy C.
Gave Gulu another try and I must say it was so much better. I will give the owner mad props for emailing me directly when I posted a bad review. That takes character and I'm happy to see that some of the things we talked about were much improved. The service was very good, the food quality was fresh and I was also glad to see this place was packed. I mean every single table was full and that is a great sign for Salem. I ended up getting the smoked turkey, bacon, tomato on grilled ciabatta . The little side salad had a great balsamic dressing. I will definitely come back and that is a good thing!
(4)L. G.
This is a great spot in Salem. They have a great beer selection, delicious food and live music. My kind of place. I've been here a few times and always have a great time. I've had a few different appetizers and wraps and everything is phenomenal. The only down side is that it's pretty small and fills up quickly on the weekends, so if you want to get a seat you have to get there early.
(4)Daryl P.
I have had similar experiences as some other reviews I saw here... A. The beer is great, and the selection is very impressive. B. That being said, the food is a bit pricey and pretty mediocre. The only thing I actually order now is the combo cheese/meat plate with their grilled bread. Good price and very filling, obviously. C. I also feel like the waitstaff is always annoyed with you just for coming in. I'll go back when it's nice enough to sit outside again, and they get interesting music sometimes, but on the whole... Meh.
(2)Felicia S.
SERVICE: Service has always been fantastic and I've never had an issue being waited on. FOOD: Food is always great. My absolute favorite wrap there is "The Essjay" its a hummus and fruit wrap, so delicious and a perfect pairing of flavors. ATMOSPHERE: I enjoy the cozy seating and very homey feel to the place. ATMOSPHERE-CONS: Some nights Gulu Gulu cafe hosts live music and to be honest, I just don't see it as the right establishment to host such loud music. I'll admit I even like the idea that there is place where people can meet up, listen to music, and relax. I just don't think a small cafe like the Gulu Gulu should be used like a concert hall. Unfortunately, the live bands turn into tight college parties that don't allow for any seating on those given nights. God forbid you did get a seat, you wouldn't be able to talk with the person across from you. On those nights I recommend that most customers order take-out.
(4)Chris S.
I've been growing a mustache for Movember, so I felt comfortable enough in a hipster environment to check this place out. I thought it was well organized with a line at one end of the bar for ordering drinks. It took away the unpleasant act of reaching between seated patrons to place an order, take your drink and then pay. I thought the atmosphere was pretty cool, there was a guy spinning records in the front and some sort of film playing behind him...didn't pay enough attention to it to figure out what it was. I thought their beer selection was good, however I would have liked to have seen more representation from the Mass Brewers Guild (we have great breweries here in MA). The bartender seemed knowledgeable and friendly, and I thought there prices were very fair, especially on the higher alc beers. Looking forward to checking out the food at some point.
(3)Alex L.
I came in here after multiple recommendations. I know now to try the crepes next time, but I had the mac and cheese. It was very different from what you'd expect from mac and cheese but very delicious. The beer selection is very good. I ordered a chcolate stout, but that being out they had a BBC stout that was equally good. I will be back.
(4)Andrea S.
Total Agreement with other reviewers on food and beverages. This is my hubby's favourite place for beer, coffee, and atmosphere! During the day when we visit I like their "Andes Espresso" In the evenings the "Absinthe Ordinaire" is a must. In a perfect world I would prefer to experience the full Absinthe ritual, however, it's not practical for GGC's current set up. The wait staff does a great job considering the dynamic of the environment (The place is always busy - yes it gets loud therefore not so great for intimate conversation). Frankly, they are as eclectic as GGC's mission statement. A creative bunch of kidz!!
(5)Jen L.
I've never had a bad lunch at Gulu. Sometimes I go just for the smoothies. But when I've called ahead to come pick my food, more often then not they start making it when I arrive. What's the deal? Minus one star for the service. Definitely delish though.
(4)Jenn F.
My sister and I are both vegan and went here on a whim. We shared the hummus plate and the hummus wrap. It was so yummy! I would definitely go here again for the wine, free wifi and great food. Our service was a little slow, but it didn't bother me.
(4)Michele B.
The good: Great Crepes (thought they leave the rind on the Brie, but that is how most use it, I am just fussy about that). I take a lactaid for my visit there because almost everything seems to have cheese, but it is delicious, so I am good with that. They do not seem to have regular sandwiches, everything is in a roll up, so if you don't like that, this is not the place for you. They also have a good selection of beverages, alcohol and non-alcoholic. I love their hot cider very much, and it is lovely after shopping in Salem on a cool day. They also have outdoor seating which is nice. There are a lot of dogs there though, so if they scare you, this may not be the place for you. The wait staff is just lovely. I have never had a surly or inept server there. They also seemed to be encouraged to be individuals, and I respect a place that does that. Located in a central spot. This area has a varied selection of shops ( love the kitchen shop and toy shop not far from there). If you go for no other reason, go because it is convenient. The bad: Not a great selection of foods. What they serve is wonderful though, just not a large selection and nothing "typical" so you need to go in with an adventurous spirit. I even got my friend who is a burger person to give the crepes a go. He seemed to like them a lot as he ate the entire thing. As with Harrison's up the road, there is little parking. Parking is metered, and they are strict about it, almost as bad as Cambridge. Bring lots of change (I forgot the rate).
(4)Jocelyn P.
I LOVE it here. I really haven't found many chill cafe type places where you can just hang out and read or do whatever... this is that place for me. I think it would be nice if they would put in a few couches or cushy chairs (those weird highback leather ones in the corner don't really cut it for me), but it's not a deal breaker for me. The coffee is always good and they are usually pretty good about checking back. I typically go during the day, and the service has been decent. I don't think I've hit "regular" status with the waitstaff yet, but they are all nice enough. In terms of speed, I've been in and out pretty quick when I needed to leave, but they are also good about leaving me alone when it's clear that I'm just sitting there studying. The soup is so good, and I always get the essjay wrap. SO GOOODDD. Usually they play pretty nice music, but sometimes they play super weird stuff and crank it... I've left early a few times to get away because it's so distracting. Overall, this place is my jam. I crave it and wish I lived closer so I could be a regular and convert all my friends to Gulu-ists.
(4)Mimi B.
On a cold afternoon I had lunch in this great cafe. Loved the atmosphere and the menu! Two of us got Panini and one a wrap. Very delicious with a small salad and chips included. The bread was a bit thick for our tastes--panini is all about the awesome crispiness of the grill and and melted fillings. With bread so thick this sort of missed the mark, but they were good sandwiches. Next time (and there will be a next time) I will get those awesome looking crepes or a salad. Both looked amazing. We all loved the place, just haven't found the right entree yet, but it is well worth going back to find something more yummy.....and beer of course.
(4)Em G.
wow. sat down at the only open table on a thursday night and was served two of the most uninspiring meals a crepe, a beer, and an especially atrocious martini they called "the giddy cocktail". i am telling you, it was ungodly - i ended up daring my friend to finish it for me. the decor screamed "ARENT WE DIFFERENT?!" and the presentation mumbled "at least we tried." they had a err.. "band" (??)playing, which consisted of a dude and his gameboy, not even kidding, playing covers of songs you didn't want to hear the original of, let alone the gameboy rendition. sort of cool while loafing on the internet, but i am trying to eat and converse, not hear the dubbed remix of ash riding his bike in a cave. all around awful experience. the only saving graces were our smiling server, the impressive beer list and the crepe. a real shame since i loved the atmosphere when i walked in (before kirby set up) - but i will not return for grub or drinks until i catch wind of some serious updates to the respective menus.
(2)Dan M.
My girlfriend and I went here for lunch on a Friday late afternoon. She got a Creme brûlée latte and I had an iced coffee, both were excellent! She had their soup of the day which she loved, we each got a panini and they were pretty good. I'll probably come back next time I'm in Salem. The only thing I didn't like was the open seating.
(4)Melissa F.
They had a couple of vegetarian options and a vegan wrap. Great food, nice people. I will definitely go back again
(4)Steve K.
The atmosphere is pretty nice. It's an 18+ eatery with a huge export and import beer list. You won't find bud, PBR, or Sam Adams here... but if you are looking for something different in the realm of beer, you are in Salem, and you are ready to try new and untapped resources in the non-booze alcohol department, I would give it a try. I don't generally get food here, but they do have a pretty amazing array of fresh cheeses and meats that you can get as a platter. If it is desert, espresso, or things of that nature... this could also be your go-to place. I personally wouldn't go here every day, nor would I say it is one of my favorite places, but if you are up in Salem and are a bit adventurous, I would definitely take a trip to Gulu Gulu. Oh, did I mention they have board games???
(3)Sea S.
We sat down, waited 45 minutes for our food, while the cook and our server ate dinner. The tables were dirty and so was the restaurant. Why does this place have such a good rating? We were fooled, hope you aren't.
(1)Stephanie H.
I have been here on numerous occasions and just thought I have reviewed it before. I go atleast once a month (if not more) most every month. If you are in a rush it is not the place to go. It is a relaxed, laid back, cafe style place. Sandwiches, meat & Cheese platter, grape leaves, panini sandwiches, salads, crepes to name a few of the things that are great about the menu. The beer selection and coffee are all great. Wine menu is eh but decent enough. Service is 99% of the time very slow.
(4)Meg M.
When you walk into Gulu Gulu, just BEING there makes you cooler. Okay so there may be a couple emo kids crying in the corner or some hipster kids trying to figure out a way to sit in their chairs with their tight pants on... but really? This place is awesome. My fiance took me here on a whim when we went on an adventure one sunny Sunday and I am so glad he did. Well, HO-LEE beer list was I happy to be there. Unfortunately we had already eaten a big lunch but next time I go in there I will go hungry. They have meat and cheese plates for extremely reasonable prices. They have so many unique sandwiches and vegetarian options that I seriously wanted to try 4 different selections and I wasn't even hungry. Ya know what else they have? Crepes. I saw em. They're legit. NEED to have them. The service was friendly and cool. We ordered some micro brews and I was pleased to see that they had my favorite beer (Victory Golden Monkey) for 5 bucks a bottle. Considering it's like drinking 2 beers at once, thats a good deal. The atmosphere of the place is chill, hip and inviting. I love love love the little Frenchie that they use as their mascot, and they sell some awesome shirts right off of the walls here. There is also an adorable outside seating area, but it was full when we arrived. They have a full list of live music on the chalk board for the entire month so you can scan ahead to see who you want to check out. I will be back for a full meal and a night out. It's the kind of place I could spend all night in. This is by far my favorite new spot, I just wish it was closer to Southie but in my opinion, it's worth the drive.
(5)Sarah S.
There seems to be a theme in a lot of the reviews - tasty food, cool atmosphere, great beer selection and really super slow service. The first few times my family and I went to Gulu Gulu we went during lunch hour and we waited quite a bit for everything - menus, drinks, food, the check, etc... We decided this time we'd stop in during off hours - 3PM on a Saturday afternoon. The patio had one table open and there were plenty of tables open inside. We did receive menus promptly and we were very excited . Sigh...that's where the speed ended. Drinks - 2 sodas in bottles - took about 20 minutes to arrive. Sandwiches - another 30 minutes. Dessert did arrive pretty quickly though and was delicious - s'more crepe! The food, I'd give it 4 stars. The panini need to be pressed and not just toasted but are very good. It's the service that kills the rating. There's no reason in the world for sandwiches to take over 45 minutes - closer to an hour - to arrive.
(3)M. A.
Regarding what I said in earlier reviews about the food? Scrap all that. They've severely jacked up prices on what used to be the affordable things, and the quantities, in some cases, have been cut in half. They just rolled out their new menu, and it has removed almost everything I ever ate here. And I'm sorry, I should not be paying as much for a Chicken Caesar Salad wrap as I would for a frigging piece of foie gras at Opus down the street. The drink menu's still pretty good (though anything mixed is way overpriced), but really, the only reason I ever come in now is habit, and the fact that friends sometimes come here, too. But I haven't eaten here in months. Such a shame.
(3)Joe Z.
I like Gulu Gulu Cafe a lot. It's got a great bohemian feel to it. The food is excellent. They have really interesting sandwiches and a fantastic beer and wine selection. All is not perfect, however. The service tends to be on the slow side. And by slow I mean really slow. Another note of caution is that when it's busy, as it often is, it's very noisy. The cafe has mostly bare walls and floors so the sound bounces around a whole lot. I've only been there for lunch. I know that they have bands and DJ nights. I can't imagine what it sounds like for those events. The acoustic foam on the bottom of the stairs is just not cutting it folks.
(4)Adam E.
Fruli beer is amazing, and this was the first place I saw it outside of Amsterdam. Good start! My girls and I had a few with our sandwiches here before facing the streets of Salem, and we were very glad we did. Because we needed a buffer. All those families and phobes who voted for Scott Brown, ugh. No thank you. So I was glad to find an oasis of hipness where I felt somewhat shielded from Nickleback and open stares. The staff here in the afternoon was fun and friendly, with none of that shitty superior attitude you get from "cool" kids in crappy towns.The patrons were another story. I understand the impulse, like "I'm the coolest person for miles, I can treat you like dump." It reeks of insecurity, but I get it. The DJ who asked us to move while we were mid-meal was an example of that. Luckily, our waitress told us not to pay him any mind. We didn't intend to, but appreciated her redemptive words. Sadly, she couldn't make up for the overcrowded room and schizophrenic mix of stroller-toting obnoxious families and cooler-than-thou jerks. On a less busy day, I think this place would be completely awesome, and I know it's not their fault that some of the patrons are kind of horrible, but it does impact the experience. The other negative was the evening, when we went to have a few drinks and dance. The goth girl (oh hi, 1994, good to see you again) at the door said the place was full when we stopped by, even though it was way more crowded that afternoon. I mean, Gulu Gulu is aight, but it feels like a little brother who wants so desperately to be rebellious and cool that it just comes off as super annoying. Or those girls in college who have the poster of the two girls in lingerie kissing. Please.
(3)Jose G.
What a great little find!!!! we got there totally by accident on a recent trip to Salem from Florida and went back the next day for more. Yes, it was that cool!!! You will not be disapointed
(5)Caitie R.
My boyfriend and I are pretty regular customers at Gulu Gulu. The atmosphere is laid back and the prices are pretty reasonable (it usually costs us about $25 or so for the both of us, including tip, depending on what we get). The food is delicious (I usually get a chicken salad wrap and I've also tried the "Berry Nice" crepe). Anywhere that has chai tea also gets points from me. All of the staff we've encountered has been really nice, as well. One of the only downsides to Gulu Gulu is the seating. I've only been to the cafe on one occasion when it was very full and had to wait only about ten or so minutes for a seat, which wasn't a problem, but having the option to sit where you want especially if you're coming here for food is key. I find sitting on the couches very hard if you're actually trying to enjoy a meal, but maybe that's just me.
(4)Misty S.
Very happy that this opened in Salem! Great food, great beer, great wine, great coffee. And Jack and Max rock.
(4)Jennifer P.
Ok so we were visiting on an off season weekend which sucked because it was rainy and cold and everything was closed. We were told about this place by the owner of the B&B we were staying at. So we decided to go in and get some coffee to warm up. Our waiter was Super and we had coffee with a kick mine was the Italian one with Amaretto and Frangelico and my gf had the chocolate mint one with peppermint schnapps. We also ordered warm banana bread and omg it was tasty and one order is 3-slices. Wow nothing like NYC and the prices were so reasonable. Too bad its alway the in Salem I would love to have the option of hanging out here on a weeknight especially for the live music they have. There's always something going on here....
(4)Vanilla P.
Wonderful beer selection, slightly overpriced but worth it for the selection and recommendations by the staff. Our waitress was very knowledgeable about the different beers we asked about, which is lovely when you pretend to be cultured (us not her). Hummus: sucky Daily soup: yum, clam chowder Panini: warm and flavorful... I think it was the Barcelona. Service: friendly. We went around 2 and the place was empty, so our waitress was very attentive and helpful with suggestions.
(4)Kimberly H.
I was bringing a friend to Salem while she was in town visiting and needed some fuel before starting our dorky witch hunting excursions. We noticed Gulu Gulu Cafe from across the street and hopped inside. Right off the bat I loved the feel of the place. It was a little bit artsy and a lot bit inviting. My friend in Gluten intolerant and were so happy to see that they offered a Gluten free tortilla on all of their wraps. Since I (for now) still have a stomach of steel I went for the Istanbul Panini: smoked turkey, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and pesto on grilled bread. I asked for fresh basil to be added (doooo it) and it was just perfect! You know you have a good sandwich on your hands when you don't even think about needing additional condiments. All of the sandwiches come with a small lightly dressed salad and potato chips ... you don't even make me choose? ... Gulu Gulu we are going to be good friends. We also grabbed a couple of meats and cheeses from the charcuterie menu and were stuffed! That being said our server offered us a Gluten free blueberry pie and of course we adjusted our belts and went for it. The pie crust was not my favorite, but hey, it was something we could both eat. The filling was good enough that I would order it again. Will most definitely be back next time I am in Salem!
(4)Anna S.
I have been back a few times, and I just need to reiterate what a fantastic restaurant this is. I have dragged family, friends, and new lovers to this place. Every single time the food is fresh and unbelievably yummy. The service is great, the people watching is great, and the drinks are great. I can't give Gulu Gulu cafe a high enough recommendation. Please keep this awesome place in business!
(5)Salem X.
One day, the elder beer Gods got together for a meeting in their palace high atop a Belgian mountain range. All six of the Gods were present for this very special occasion: Vera, Mickey, Fritz, Olaf, Lord Rumplebottom and Paco. The purpose of the meeting was to create a place with just a dozen or so taps, but whose taps would have such varied quality beers that it would rival even the most over tapped beer snob hang outs. Vera suggested the place should serve cheese. Mickey insisted it remain open late into the night, with a full menu. Fritz said it should have the Cojones to serve seasonal beers at any time of the year, regardless of season. Olaf proclaimed there shall be music and movies the help pass the time while drinking. Lord Rumplebottom growled that prices should be reasonable and service friendly. Paco didn't say much of anything - he was wasted. But through his drunken stupor, he was able to mumble something about how the place should be located in Salem, Massachusetts on the Eastern Coast of the US; all agreed. And so the Gulu Gulu Cafe was born.
(4)Sharon L.
Love Gulu Gulu! Great beer selection, sandwiches are awesome and hte crepes are even better (especially the nutella one). Only downside is its slightly chaotic trying to find a seat when crowded. Other than that the food, atmosphere, and music always makes for a fun time!
(4)Caroline D.
This place is ok if you like noise. I used to live in Salem and my housemate and I would go there on occasion. We went for coffee and desert never really food. Coffee was decent and desert as well. On occasion we did try to go there for food but they either weren't serving, ran out of a bunch of stuff or it was too loud for us to stay. See, they often have local bands and stuff going on to really try and get a cafe vibe going on. Unfortunately they don't regulate the sound at all and it ends up being a total downer. This place does try really hard at being a European styled cafe with food, coffee and beer but the coffee could be better, the food isn't always the best if they have what you want at all and the noise level on evenings in wicked.
(3)Daisy M.
This place is a jewel in the neighborhood- a great place to hang with friends, play cards or a board game, or listen to some live music at night. We've tried most of their savory crepes, and breakfast crepes, too. Sandwiches, soups, salads cappuccino, all excellent! Portions are good, food is VERY FRESH, and prices are also good. The ambiance is hip and lively. Pros: outdoor patio dining, great coffee drinks, and CREPES ; ) Cons: noisy; service is a bit slow, so we just don't go here if we're rushed or stressed.
(4)Cindy M.
What a great place to just sit back and relax! My boyfriend and I visited Gulu over the weekend and we were quite impressed with the whole vibe of the place and will definitely be going back some time soon. I know a few people have commented on the nightlife in this establishment however we were there during the day and found it quite pleasant. I had a cappuccino that was out of this world! When I took my spoon to try the foam, it seemed like I was digging into a decadent dessert. The beer list is quite extensive and impressive. We didn't have anything to eat but are planning on getting a bite when we return!!
(4)Annie M.
This place is awesome. I'm here at least twice a month. The menu doesn't change very often, which is my only complaint, as I am lactose intolerant and can't really eat any of the paninis. The food is AMAZING though. Everything is great and the prices are very good. The service has always been wonderful when I'm here, and the same few waiters are usually working. They are very nice and accommodating to your needs. There's definitely a strong hipster vibe here, which provides for some great people watching when you're with friends. The weirdest thing happened the other night though- I went to dinner here on an open mic night Wednesday, and one of the guys "warming up" on stage was just playing the same note over and over again on a kazoo or some little train horn thing... if that makes sense... anyways it was really odd but we laughed about it! I think they cater, too! One thing that should be noted- Gulu Gulu does not sell Coke/Pepsi products, but they do have a "Curiosity Cola" that is local/organic instead, although it doesn't taste like coke at all.
(4)Kylie H.
YAY! I love it. I can't say anything about their food because I haven't eaten here yet, but they have a great beer selection. Anywhere that has Victory Golden Monkey reasonably priced I'm a fan of. Amazing atmosphere here as well. I am looking forward to going back to try their food.
(4)Miss B.
I've been going to this Gulu-Gulu and the original location in Lynn (now closed) since they opened. I really appreciate the unique ambiance and eclectic selection of beers and wines, not to mention the many vegetarian options on the menu! I'm a big fan of the cheese platter, the spiced cider, the delicious variety of sweet or savory crepes (don't make me choose a favorite!) and I often get the Cranberry Salad- but there are others that are equally tasty. They have art by local artist featured and for sale on the walls, they show movies or sometimes have live music. I've noticed the service isn't as good as it used to be, however. The last time I went there, there was a sign that told us to go inside if we wanted patio seating. Then when we got inside, there was a sign at the hostess desk telling us to seat ourselves. We waited for a few minutes by the host podium, but nobody greeted us and the place seemed busy, so we then decided to seat ourselves at a table outside. We waited again for about 5-10 minutes without anyone coming to us. We noticed some people leaving so we went back inside to see if there were any empty tables yet. There were, so we sat ourselves. After several more minutes, someone came over and took our drink order and served us. Once we finally got served, the service was courteous and attentive. I think that the wait staff here have too much on their hands, and that they are a bunch of local students that don't really care about the restaurant. The place is doing really well for itself these days, so maybe the owners don't realize what's going on as far as the customer experience goes. I think the pricing is right-on for fresh, unique ingredients like the stuff served here. The portions aren't huge, but it's really more of a cafe, not a dinner place. I think this a great place for a date, provided you're not in a rush or starving, because the service might take some time...
(3)JR D.
I've been to Gulu Gulu a couple times now, mainly for a late breakfast on weekdays. Apparently it's a perfect time because it's never super busy, although there's always a few tables. The coffee drinks are unique from what I've typically seen. Granted, I go to Starbucks and my extent of a unique drink is a pumpkin spice latte, but the drinks are interesting enough for me to try (i.e. Creme brulee latte, Andes latte, etc). Everything I've had is delicious. I'm definitely a beer kinda gal, and this place has a great selection. It's a good range of different types of beer, so almost any beer drinker you go with will be satisfied. I noticed today that they have Spaten Oktoberfest on the list, which means I will be headed there soon just for that. Wine selection looked vast as well, and my friends talk about how they have absinthe on the menu in a favorable manner. The food menu is outstanding. Crepes any time of the day? Yes please! Breakfast sandwiches with your not so typical ingredients (prosciutto egg and manchego cheese, DROOL!). Paninis that come in all kinds. A meat and cheese plate that my friend RAVES about. Vegetarian options available for the no-meat-eaters. It really caters to just about anyone that walks in, and I love that. Service is always friendly, and yeah, it's not super fast, but usually when I go in, I'm not looking to run in and out. They seem to have a ton of "events" in the evenings, from movie nights to open mic nights to DJs to bands to whatever else you can think of. I've only been in once for an evening, and it was over a year ago, so other than the fact that I went and had good beer, I don't remember it, so I couldn't tell ya how the atmosphere is in the evening. I do remember it being pretty packed, though. I highly recommend this place to someone who likes good food and beer, with an almost coffeehouse atmosphere to it. Try to grab a couch if you can on a night when you want to cozy up to your honey! I will definitely be returning to Gulu Gulu and will hopefully have an opportunity to try EVERYTHING on the mouth watering menu!
(4)Kira K.
I like this place because it's laid back, has fun staff, and the food is good. It appeals to meat-eaters and vegetarians alike as well as coffee drinkers and beer drinkers. There is something for everyone. The thing I really like about Gulu Gulu is that it's completely un-hipster. A lot of the coffee places that I've been to that offer live entertainment or have beer on tap seem to be the types of places that you want to be seen at. Not so with Gulu Gulu. It's just a bunch of real people with real appetites looking for a great bite to eat and something good to drink. The service does run on the slow side, but order a beer, slow down and enjoy. It is a very calming atmosphere. Let it sink in. It's a great place to take a friend or loved one to eat if you actually want to have a conversation. You're never seated too close to anyone else, it's never so loud that you can't hear each other, and depending on how close you are, there are a couple of cozy couches to sit on together and enjoy the live music. This is always my go-to lunch spot when I go to the Peabody Essex Museum.
(4)Tamara D.
This is an overall good review for Gulu Gulu. I only have one negative. I've been going to Gulu Gulu for over two years now. What can I say?? I love the food, the atmosphere and the awesome service. The artwork on the walls are always a good conversation starter. The different types of music and people always make it very interesting. There are so many different types of foods to choose from. I usually stick with the Paninis or the wraps. My favorite sandwiches are the Great Porto and the Palermo. Sooooooooo good. The Mac n Cheese is a taste sensation. Almost.... Almost.... as good as my own. Danny is always great and makes the best coffee concoctions. He also makes very good recommendations on food choices. I always end up trying something new and loving it. Sue Ann (SJ) is also another great server. Drinks are always refilled and she is always around to see if you need anything. She is always very happy. She's also very fast and you are never left waiting. I would advise to not have Katie wait on you. I've only had her once and she was subpar at best. I thought maybe she was having an off night and decided to brush off that negative experience. However, last night I was able to observe her once again. She still wasn't friendly and seemed to have a scowl tattooed on her face. I actually felt sorry for the patrons being waited on by her. I know she is fairly new. Hopefully, she will learn that a smile goes a long way and to check her bad day at the door before she clocks in for work. The customers shouldn't suffer for it. Gulu Gulu ranks high on my list of favorite restaurants in Salem. I usually go like twice a month. I always recommend it to family, friends, and coworkers. It's good, fun, reasonable and well.... I just like it!
(4)Teju P.
I randomly stopped in here with my family, and we thought its was alright. What is excellent: Service Atmosphere Italian Soda Goat Cheese/Roasted Red Pepper Mac & Cheese Portobella, Spinach, and Basil crepe What is NOT excellent: Viennesse Vegetarian panini - very small Sweet Crepe with Green Apples, Strawberry, Almond, and honey (name is escaping me now) very crunch and difficult to eat because the contents kept breaking the crepe.
(3)Bruno C.
Looking for a "cool" place to hang out in this witchy tourist town? Good people and good food. Our waitress was warm, welcoming and made us feel at home. Creative types would find the atmosphere pleasing. The service was great, but as with any coffee house style eatery, you're not going there for super-speedy service - relax. Check out their website if you're planning to be in the area since they have some cool events and entertainment.
(4)Scott F.
Like everything about it BUT service can be a little too relaxed.
(4)Mike H.
This is a fun place. The coffee drinks are fantastic, and the beer selection is superb. The food is quite good. Keep in mind that it's more cafe and less restaurant. The table service is terrible. It's not bad as in the staff is busy, it's bad as in the staff is apathetic. The flip side to this is that the bartenders are fantastic. They know their beers and can help you pick out something you'll like.
(3)Lauren V.
Even though I had a great time at Gulu Gulu Cafe, I thought "maybe I shouldn't let my personal experience impact the rating", but then I smartened up and thought "clearly Gulu Gulu is a place that is conducive to good times". And so, the four star rating stands. I came here with 7 other people on a Thursday night. We turned two corners of the restaurant into our own little gypsy camps until we were able to snag a table. The waitress didn't seem to mind our migratory pattern and was able to stay on top of our numerous drink, cake and crepe orders. She wasn't the most friendly, but I had enough people to chat with and she did her job fine so no bother. Each night has a theme. Thursday night was live music. There is a fairly-large stage (considering the overall size of the place) and the acoustics aren't too bad. It might have been nice if the band was a bit more ambient or quiet- there was a lot of musical chairs as we tried to accommodate conversation over the music. On a side note, I was not a huge fan of the band coming around and asking everyone for money. We had been sitting down for about 5 minutes when a band member came over, whined (ok, not really) that they weren't getting paid by the bar and held out his hand. Kind of awkward. When my sister mentioned she didn't carry cash, he asked "You don't? Weird." Anyways, they have a big list of wines, beers (not crap beers either) and cocktails. If you are DD, there are Italian sodas, coffees, teas and smoothies. I would definitely recommend a piece of Chocolate Mousse Cake and although I did not personally try one, each crepe had about a 2 minute life span once it landed on our table. I will definitely be back.
(4)Richard D.
I stopped in here with a friend after a day of cycling around the area. We grabbed a couch in the back with a coffee table. They have a pretty good wine list and the salmon crepes were fantastic. The waitress was perfect: she didn't hover (the place was not very busy at 4:30), but was attentive enough and quick to refill both water and wine glasses (important after a hot day of cycling). I'll be back!
(4)Amanda Z.
Heard about this place from a bunch of co-workers that live down the street from it. Has a very chill atmosphere with an eccentric array of seating. Wait staff is very nice. I went on a Friday in the late afternoon and there was only one waitress. As the place started to fill up and orders came in she was able to keep up with everyone and not make anyone feel like they were having to wait for their food. They have live shows there, though I didn't stay long enough that night to see who was performing. Excellent beer selection, fantastic chowder!
(4)John G.
Just an incredible place. I took a day trip to Salem last Sunday by myself and pulled up a barstool at the Gulu Gulu Cafe. From start to finish just a wonderful experience. Not much that I can add that hasn't already been said. Great beer selection, awesome atmosphere. I would like to pay tribute to the staff here last Sunday. Both bartenders were attentive and cool and the waitresses were jovial and engaging (is is Yelp-professional to say that they were HOT too? Probably Not.) I'll be taking another daytrip to Salem soon cos I do love that town, and I'll definitely be back the Gulu Gule Cafe.
(5)Frank B.
I really, really want to like this place. Coming from Davis Square in Somerville, I've been spoiled by great, funky, unique places to grab a beer/bite/coffee. So now that I live in the land of "gothic revival", I was glad to see such a place open up. I've been to Gulu-Gulu about a dozen times, for a variety of purposes: tea while i get work done; beers with friends; lunch; night out to listen to music. In each case, there are a few recurring themes. First, the service is astoundingly slow, even when the place is empty. I know its trying to through out the euro chillax avec cafe thing. But seriously, if I'm making repeated eye contact, come over. And how long does it take to pull a draft of beer? Second, the place is over-priced. For $8, a sandwhich had better be amazing. They're OK, but nothing to get excited about (to contrast, see Dave's Fresh Pasta in the aforementioned square). The crepes taste gritty and bland, sort of like tortillas before they've been fried. Ok, so some good news? The music is usually pretty good and not too loud. The beer selection is great, though it SEVERELY suffers a lack of affordable (less than $4.50) options. Hello? High Life? Or at least some Polish equivalent? The sandwiches are pretty good, and the atmosphere creative. Improvements to the quality, speed of service, and price of beer would easily make this a 5-star rating and a place to treasure in my new digs. We'll see if they get the message. Word.
(3)angela h.
Seems like this place strikes a nerve with people- either great or terrible. Well, for me it is GREAT. I've gone twice- once on a very busy late Sunday morning, and another time on a not as busy early Friday evening. The food is unlike most other eating establishments. You're not gonna be eating burgers and fries here, and that's a-okay with me. Sandwiches are delicious with interesting combinations and ingredients. Basically, great food, great drinks, great beer, great service.
(5)Maria V.
I thought I had reviewed this place. . . oops! I enjoy a place where not only can i get a drink with friends, but we don't have to scream into each others ears in order to be heard. The Gulu Gulu offers such an environment. They offer a hefty selection of beers and wine, although thus far I've only tried the martinis (tasty!). They also have an assortment of non-alcoholic bevs and coffees. As far as food, I have only had some apps and a crepe, but they were delicious (mmm smoked salmon and arugula). There is an assortment of tables, cozy chairs and a couch in which to enjoy aforementioned treats. They feature local artwork on the walls and have game nights, open mic, bands and movies. All in all, this is one of my favorite discoveries on the North Shore.
(4)Ray T.
Amazing place!! Great beer selection and vegetarian and vegan options! The vegan chili is one of my favorites.
(5)Saleem N.
Always great. Everything is priced right ant good enough to try different items. Wish one of these were closer to me. Would go all the time.
(5)Kamila P.
best breakfast sandwich ever!!!! the spinwich is so legit!
(5)Justina P.
Very tasty meals that are fresh and presented lovely. Very nice options; from a verity of teas to fresh made sandwiches with goat cheese. Yum!! Quiet-ish and nice calm vide. (:
(4)CE D.
I find the awful reviews of this place & the "awful hipster staff" hilarious and many of them sound like they were written by awful hipsters themselves. I'm no fan of the bearded skinny pant wearing crowd but if my choices are between hipsters in flannel and New England rednecks in jerseys and turtlenecks, I prefer the hipster joints because they have at least heard of serving a vegetable. I enjoyed my first visit here for breakfast so much that I returned later that night it coffee and drinks and then again for breakfast the next morning. The crêpes were delicious and the drink selections were on point--great beers and nice coffee options. The service was less efficient (but not bad) than I would maybe have liked at some points but to be honest as a NYer I find most places outside of my area slow anyway. One thing that irked me was that you cannot get a freaking glass of water in this joint OR anywhere else in Salem without having to practically beg for it. What the heck?! Gulu Gulu was a cute spot where we were able to bring our dog and not very expensive. If/when in Salem again we will once again stop in!
(4)Richard D.
I've been here a few times and love Gulu's electric vibe.
(5)Dave L.
Wow, Yelp really hit a home run on this one. We came to the Salem Witch Museum in the morning and then spent about an hour letting our boys play in the Salem Common. When it was time for lunch, I looked at Yelp and found Gulu Gulu Cafe. This place is funky and fun and cool and has really good food. It is located in a beautiful little square in downtown Salem, which has a funky, fun, and cool vibe to it. We came at lunch time on a Sunday. The restaurant was busy, but we were seated right away. They have a bar that serves coffee and tea. They also have a very good craft beer list that emphasizes local brews. I ordered a charcuterie plate and a Mediterranean salad to split with my wife. The salad was excellent - fresh, very little dressing so the taste of the veggies and feta came through. The meat and cheese on my charcuterie plate was very good. It was served with a good sized plate of toasted French bread. The goat cheese I ordered was very mild and the salami and hot cappicola were great. The iced tea was also very good. I also ate some of my son's hummus plate. The hummus was served with a generous portion of veggies - celery, carrots, cucumbers - and pita. The hummus was pretty mild. Service here was decent. Our server looked like a surf dude. He was okay, but kind of slow. Overall, the food was reasonably priced for the amount and quality. If I lived in the Salem area, this would probably be one of my favorites. The only reason I am not giving five stars is the slow service and kitchen.
(4)Nicole S.
Went to Gulu Gulu tonight for a late meal with our kids. Ate outside and had fun, nice feel. Had theeeee best vanilla latte ever! Props to the guy who made my drink. Had the veggie crepe. A little too much goat cheese, but otherwise good. Husband had a turkey panini. It had apple butter and he liked the combo. Kids had breakfast sandwiches, which they both liked. Even better was the chocolate milk, very chocolatey, which they loved! We all rated the meal on a scale of 1 to 10, and the average was an 8.5. Which is good for us. Btw, the meal cost us $38.00, which was the most inexpensive meal we've had all week! And, our waitress was very nice. A great experience!
(4)Sara F.
This is probably my favorite place ever for drinks, music, and enjoying the company of good people. It is not my favorite place for food. I love the bands that play here. They are always super unique but good. Funky and fun music that hipstets of all ages can enjoy. I love the environment. The tables and chairs are miss matched, there is contemporary art on the walls, there are games to play, and everyone in the cafe looks like they could be my friend. I just feel so happy and at home! This is the kind of place I want to come to on my birthday! The drinks are great! Huge selection of beer! I just don't really care for anything on the menu. I want to like the food, but it is just not for me. Maybe I am choosing the wrong things? I will continue to try items on the menu, hoping to find something I'll love.
(4)Allison W.
Love it! First of all, they have adorable pugs and Boston terriers on their door and glassware. Winning me over already. And an outdoor patio! Then their food was interesting and delicious. I had a smoked turkey panini, with havarti cheese, arugula, dijon mustard, and apple butter. Awesome flavor combination, and a big sandwich. I also had an americano and their espresso was quite good. They have a make-your-own crepe option with a very wide variety of nice cheeses, veggies, meats, and sauces, as well as sweet crepes. For dessert, I tried the blueberry/walnut/brie crepe, which was not that good... The brie was just in chunks unevenly hidden in the crepe, and the blueberries were whole (delish) but the drawback was that they kept falling out. The brie should have been melted more, which would have held the blueberries down. It was meh. Service was also extremely slow, but my overall rating is still a 4 for the cute decor and nice outdoor seating, and mostly great food. Would def go back.
(4)Stefanie H.
Favorite place in Salem! Great beer selection, delicious food and great live music/entertainment. Be prepared to stay a while!
(5)Erik S.
One of the best spots on the North Shore for a wide selection on tap! Their food leaves something to be desired, though I can't say I've had everything on their menu yet. I typically get pizza next door at Flying Saucer and then head to Gulu-Gulu for drinks and some live music.
(4)Justin K.
My favorite place to work long hours and people watch fascinating people. When sipping coffee gets old I switch to beer without moving seats!
(4)Mike M.
Food is great but the business is in serious need of introspection. The service here is absolute garbage. Servers are impossibly slow and marvelously inattentive. They never have 3/4 of the alcohol on their menu in stock. Poorly managed and lazy to a fault. Doubt I'll be back.
(2)Tiffany G.
My husband and I were in Salem for 4 days and this place was the first place we went to eat, we returned 4 times. The first night I ordered the Istanbul and my husband got the Nice, for desert we had a s'mores crepe that we shared, we were so impressed we ate there again the next day I had the nice and he had the chicken cordon bleu crepe, we came back again for breakfast the next two mornings, we can't say enough good things about the food, the staff, and the atmosphere, we felt completely at home. I wish we lived near there we would be there at least 3 nights a week.
(5)Bob D.
Look - there are restaurants that have booze and there are bars with food. Gulu is a bar with (good) grub....but a bar first; as for the reviews here complaining that the food was subpar or the table service was sketchy? Yeah, you missed the point. You're in a bar. If you want dinner you should have gone to Church St....and please take your screaming 9 year old kid while you're at it - at least he has the common sense to realize he doesn't belong at a bar. On the OTHER hand, if you want a bar? Keep reading.... So, you're out for drinks? Good, life is short - let's enjoy it. Now Gulu isn't Drink or Eastern Standard; if you want a bow tied, handlebar mustachioed bartender mixing up wild tinctures with exotic liquors you're going to head elsewhere. Gulu sells beer. ....but, man, do they sell it. Quite possibly my favorite BEER bar in the area. The selection is phenomenal and changes rapidly. No InBev, no Boston Beer Co, no Coors-Miller: awesome imports and microbrews. The bartenders speak beer and, better still, will speak to you about it. The music is eclectic (go online and make sure it speaks to you) as is the crowd. Always pretty friendly, though. Plus, as folks have said, the food is solid for a bar; kinda hipstery - no hamburgers but good crepes. Oh, and tip the bartender. They make the magic happen.
(5)Alex W.
Hands down the best beer selection in the area, The Gulu is frequently jam packed with its younger, more "hipster" clientele. It is a very lively and relaxed atmosphere and the place is scattered with arm chairs, couches, and benches. It is seat your self and if you want food it can take a while to come out. That being said the food is also a bit expensive however it is well worth it with dishes ranging from excellent grilled sandwiches to make your own cheese and meat plates and both savory and sweet crepes. Unfortunately they do not have a full liquor licensee so mixed drinks are out, however their many craft beers and specialty martinis are a good alternative. The Gulu plays host to bands, open mic nights, comedians, and is also an art gallery, ensuring its always a lively spot. On the other end of that don't expect to have quiet conversation or leave the place without spending some money.
(3)Tom P.
First of all, I can't believe someone would give this place only 2 stars because the music was loud on a live music night. Anyway, I fully agree this is the coolest place to hang out in Salem-area, and no, you don't have to have tattoos or a hip outift to have fun. Just a good attitude. Generally, you get what you give out in terms of how you are treated. That said, of course the live music is always goiong to be hit-or-miss: it's not Comcast Center. But when it's good, it's real good. When it's not so good...well, there are plenty of other cafes in Salem to hang out in that evening... Dozens of beers you've probably never heard of. Try the Kôlsch, Pork Slap, or Delerium Tremens, which is a crisp, refreshing beer with hints of pear, clove and banana. WOWEE Great wine selection, delicious sandwiches, cheeses and salads, and fast- friendly service where the servers actually work as a unit instead of individuals. This supremely enhances the customer experience, to all other servers reading this review... They also have a glass case loaded with board games and a huge table in the middle of the room to play them on. Comfy couches, old chairs, and a very inviting, open and "cool" atmosphere, this place is more of a must-visit in Salem than any witch musuem or haunted house.
(4)Brynn C.
This place was super great. We loved our food (I had a cheese plate, she had a lox bagel), the atmosphere was great, the selection was well thought out, the staff was attentive and helpful.
(5)Hilary W.
I wish I could give them 5 stars, because the food really did deserve that! My grape leaf wrap was amaaaazing (a bit expensive but that's ok). It was the service that knocks my review down two stars. Our server was seriously not with the program! She kept on blaming the kitchen and saying how busy they had been earlier...Ok, it's 3pm and we're here for two wraps. It should not take 45 minutes, even if you were busy earlier! She completely forgot about a table next to us and they had to get their menus themselves. I would go back for the delicious food, but mentally prepare myself for way too long of a wait for a sandwich.
(3)Christopher M.
I've long said that the measure of great service is not how you're treated when everything goes well, but how you're treated when things fall apart. I've also been elite for quite some time now. I've written my fair share of one and two star reviews. In four years, I've gotten quite used to owner/management feedback. The reactions have been mixed, from ambivalence to anger, concern to caring. I've been invited and enticed back, thanked for my feedback, sworn at, and all but banned from two establishments (though one I still won't go near for fear of castration). But today the bar was set exponentially higher for managers who take customer feedback seriously. No there were no bands or roped off areas for me. I didn't receive special treatment. No one kissed my ass. Instead, the manager came over to me, smiled and greeted me, then joined me for lunch. We chatted about life, careers, and of course customer service. I told her about my experiences here from the past several years both good and bad. We talked about what makes great customer service, and things that can get in the way. I'm still stunned by her concern and drive to correct all issues here. I can't say enough about her sincerity, and her love of this cafe that drives her to make it better every day. I'm rarely taken aback by management especially when I've have less than stellar experiences, but today's lunch really made me realize that this is the same Gulu-Gulu cafe I fell in love with years ago, it's just growing and expanding, and changing for the better. Sadly, that sometimes means new employees who need a bit more guidance and time to get into a solid groove. But with a solid manager at the helm who takes customer feedback seriously and uses it to correct issues immediately I'm convinced that the bumps I felt will be VERY short-lived. Of course an establishment can't earn five stars based solely on its manager. The cafe is relaxed, fun, inviting, and calming. The beer selection is excellent. The tea is fantastic. The menu is wonderful, and features and wonderful meat and cheese selections, fun paninis, and fantastic desserts. Really, this place is a gem.
(5)Jim H.
I loved this place. I had the meat and cheese plate for lunch. It was the perfect selection for lunch. They have an awesome selection of beer. Try the cheese plate and enjoy a beer or two. If so inclined, try a salad or a sandwich. They look awesome also.
(4)Chelsea C.
I love the gulu gulu cafe! such a cute little place! GREAT service! and nice employees! I love hanging out with my friends there! It's a great place to mellow out and relax.
(5)Lisa N.
This is a cute place. I love the ambiance. The Chai Tea isn't the best, I wouldn't get it again. However, the tuna melt was good! They also had a lot of beers on tap and I can't recall what the bf ordered, but it was good! Service was great. Their "mascot" was a bulldog so they have pictures of him up on the wall and on their beer cups. Cute!
(4)Michele G.
Chicken pesto crepe is gigantic! Cool place to settle in among the other laptop warriors and get some grub. Love it that they host art openings and serve not just caffeine, but booze.
(3)Felicia K.
Holeee shit. I'm sure I can't really write anything that hasn't already been written. The food and drink are 5 stars; lost a star for mediocre, but friendly service. Can be hard to get a seat sadly, but definitely worth the wait if it isn't too ridiculous.
(4)Katherine H.
great healthy food. my friends tell me that its to "hipster" but why should it matter the food is awesome and everyones nice to you! Love the Gulu Always. PS They should bring back the Sunday night drag shows those were a lot of fun. :)
(5)Roman K.
Awesome place with delicious crepes (guys, use more salt!!!) and huge Cappuccinos.
(4)Milana G.
Awesome. Great atmosphere and an amazing menu. I am basically obsessed with paninis (who isn't though...) and the Barcelona was the best panini I've had in months. Even their chips were killing it...crispy, but not too salty or oily. And they had hot apple cider, PERFECT for the snowy mess that was going on outside. The chocolate/nutella/banana dessert crepe was a phenom too, but good luck saving room to eat it! I thought I was gambling, taking my mentor here for lunch, but I was seriously impressed and so was she! Can't wait to go back!!!
(5)Chubbs L.
Great place! The beer selection is second to none and the food is also very good. I enjoy the surroundings and the people who work there. It's one of the few places I feel like I can sit at the bar and relax. They always seem to have an excellent selection of imperial and regular ipa's on draft as well.
(5)Tristan H.
This restaurant spent too much money on trying to look cool and hip that they forgot how to be a restaurant. Pitiful service. My French Onion soup had a slice... That's right... A slice of SWISS cheese on it.
(2)Julie C.
Gulu Gulu- gulp gulp. If anything, come here for the beers. They have a really good beer list and there is something for everyone. Of course, sometimes the specials they list are sold out. Bummer! Grab a seat at a table or even the couches and relax. My bf and I came here and sat on the couch, order a couple of the Fisherman's Pumpkin Stout and goofed around while playing trivial pursuit.. We also ordered the hummus and veggie plate along with tabouli.. the veggies were fresh and crisp. Having already ate at another place, we didn't really get to try anything. Out server was really nice and bothered us at the right times, when our glasses were empty. I really enjoy the chill atmosphere of Gulu Gulu. It has a really cool vibe. This is definitely a great spot to grab a few drinks and enjoy your company.
(5)Christie N.
My wife and I come here all the time. We love this place so much that we went here for our post-wedding brunch. I also spent many hours here studying for the bar - the waitresses are very cool about letting you linger and are very attentive. The food is consistently amazing and fresh, and the beer selection is expansive. (Only one complaint - the restrooms need a good cleaning. Probably totally not their fault though because it looks like they share bathrooms with the restaurant next door.) All in all, though - this place rocks. And anyone we take here loves it and wants to come back as a regular. My favorites: The bagel and lox platter, cheese & meat board, bruschetta, and of course - crepes!
(4)E S.
Nice lunch spot! Went this past weekend between appointments for an earlier lunch. We were seated right away, but service in general was on the slow side (seemed like there was only one, maybe two, servers taking care of the whole place, inside and out). Food was creative, but simple. A delicious turkey-pesto-mozz-tomato panini came with the unexpected bonus of a small greens salad and chips. And the chicken Caesar salad was nice too- spinach instead of lettuce and nice dressing on the lighter side. Overall, worth the price, and a comfortable place to spend some time. Cozy and kitschy without being too hipster.
(4)Kristin C.
We came here for a late lunch and left quite satisfied. Pros: Great selection of draft beers, delicious food, reasonable prices, fun atmosphere Cons: Service was quite slow. Don't come here if you're in a rush! Also, while self seating might work during a less busy time of year, we found it to be a bit awkward on a Saturday in October. I'd highly recommend getting a cheese plate! You can choose any 3 cheeses for $9, served with toasted ciabatta. The husband and I both had paninis ($8-9) which came with chips and a nice little side salad. Despite the slow service, we'd definitely go back!
(4)Kristin W.
Great beer. Delicious crepes. Yummy paninis. You really can't go wrong... Unless you're turned off by some interesting local characters. Fave Beers: -Southern Tier Unearthly Imperial IPA, (NY) - draft -Weihenstephaner Vitus, 16.9oz (GER) - bottle Fave Eats: -The Essjay Panini -Portobello Mushroom, Spinach and Basil Crepe -Barcelona Panini And, for what it's worth, I am determined to become a regular at Gulu Gulu.
(4)Rachel P.
I've come to love the Gulu over the past two years - I didn't think I would like this hipster cafe that doesn't even have ketchup, but you can't deny good food. I always get a cheese & meat plate, and the chicken cordon bleu crepe is delicious. I'm not a beer drinker at all, and I've even found 2 I like at the Gulu! You can hang out and play games or use the wi-fi as long as you want (just tip your server for the space, please).
(5)Jennifer L.
Gulu Gulu is one of my favorite places to relax with a cold beverage, a crossword puzzle, & people watch. It's nestled into a cozy location in the heart of downtown Salem, has friendly helpful staff, & an impressive beer menu featuring multiple local brews. Being vegan, I can't speak much to the food; I had the hummus dish & thoroughly enjoyed it.
(5)Jason N.
I love the gulu. I only get there every few months but it's worth it! They have great sandwiches and specialty crepes which are always great. They also have musicians and open-mic nights every week and theres a schedule for those on their website. Just be warned it does get very crowded for those events. The reason I'm bumping it down to 4 stars is because some of the servers are super pretentious. It's a wicked hipster hangout. Sometimes it's alright but other times it can make you feel a bit uncomfortable if you're not the artsy type.
(4)Steward P.
Pretty good stuff here. Good vibe in the place, sometimes they play movies on a big screen which is cool, but they don't put the sound up enough. Their drinks are great, their sandwiches are delicious, good snacks, they gotta a lotta good beers. I've seen some decent bands playing there before, and I know people say sometimes they would have a free Wii to play! The only downside is the place does get filled with a buncha trendy obnoxious salem/college/hipster doofuses. Expect to see a bunch of "ironic" mustaches, smelly kids in leather with mohawks, or thick framed glasses on the nerds on their iPads. Besides that, this is a great place to get a snack and chill out for a bit.
(4)Michael D.
Ok, you've read the reviews about the beer selection and I'm going to start off by saying it's top notch. You won't find a better beer menu on the North Shore. It's always a treat walking in there simply to see what they have on tap or in bottles. It changes constantly so be sure to ask the waitress or the bartender for up to date beer menus. I've visited this place for breakfast, lunch and dinner and it succeeds on all fronts. The breakfast menu has a wide selection from your traditional breakfast sandwiches to crepes of all styles. They have a selection of pastries but the tastiest is the cinnamon swirl but you have to get there early enough because that's usually the first pastry to sell out. The coffee is delicious too and the mugs give you a great serving size of coffee or tea if you prefer. The lunch and dinner menu are pretty much the same. The meat and cheese combo is a great order, allowing you to choose which meats and cheeses you would like to have. I really enjoyed it but felt it was more to snack on than for a meal. I usually order the chicken ceasar wrap with chips. Its tasty and keeps me full for a long time. To warn you, this place is a hangout spot so the servers do take their time between visiting your table but I've never felt forgotten or mistreated. So, if you go don't be in such a rush. Reeeeeelax a bit. Also, seating can be tough on the weekends especially around lunch time so plan accordingly. Outdoor seating area is also available if you want to enjoy a beautiful day while you eat.
(4)Jeff P.
Wow, the Barcelona Panino was amazing. Nice service too!
(4)Kristi W.
I love Gulu Gulu Cafe. It is a great place to sit, chill, talk, and people watch. At night they have live music and the scene is very chill and relaxed. They have an awesome selection of beer and the staff is very friendly. My only complaint about this place is sometimes the servers are a bit slow with your order or to get your check. But other than that ... I love this place. The sandwiches are great and I love the coffee!
(4)Alex P.
One of my very favorite spots to hangout in Salem. They have, by far, the best import beer selection in town, great mixed drinks, and awesome coffee, not to mention, fun, eclectic food, which is great for sharing. Whenever we bring new people to Salem, the Gulu-Gulu is at the top of the list of places to go!
(5)Tom F.
Just had lunch here -- I was surprised at how good it was. This place is very kid-friendly and casual -- sort of reminds me of a place you'd find in San Francisco or Seattle. Laid back and, dare I say, almost hip . An extensive beer list -- from all around the world and country (bottles and draft). I had a Hop Notch IPA (from a brewery in Salt Lake City) -- the waitress recommended it. And it was delicious. Then, an Italian Panini and Lentil soup -- both were better than what I expected. The sandwich came with kettle chips and a little salad with italian peppers. The Lentil soup had a kick of curry and spice, and was really savory. The waitress was helpful, friendly and came over just the right amount of times. Very good.
(4)Andrea S.
Total Agreement with other reviewers on food and beverages. This is my hubby's favourite place for beer, coffee, and atmosphere! During the day when we visit I like their "Andes Espresso" In the evenings the "Absinthe Ordinaire" is a must. In a perfect world I would prefer to experience the full Absinthe ritual, however, it's not practical for GGC's current set up. The wait staff does a great job considering the dynamic of the environment (The place is always busy - yes it gets loud therefore not so great for intimate conversation). Frankly, they are as eclectic as GGC's mission statement. A creative bunch of kidz!!
(5)Jen L.
I've never had a bad lunch at Gulu. Sometimes I go just for the smoothies. But when I've called ahead to come pick my food, more often then not they start making it when I arrive. What's the deal? Minus one star for the service. Definitely delish though.
(4)Jenn F.
My sister and I are both vegan and went here on a whim. We shared the hummus plate and the hummus wrap. It was so yummy! I would definitely go here again for the wine, free wifi and great food. Our service was a little slow, but it didn't bother me.
(4)Daryl P.
I have had similar experiences as some other reviews I saw here... A. The beer is great, and the selection is very impressive. B. That being said, the food is a bit pricey and pretty mediocre. The only thing I actually order now is the combo cheese/meat plate with their grilled bread. Good price and very filling, obviously. C. I also feel like the waitstaff is always annoyed with you just for coming in. I'll go back when it's nice enough to sit outside again, and they get interesting music sometimes, but on the whole... Meh.
(2)Michele B.
The good: Great Crepes (thought they leave the rind on the Brie, but that is how most use it, I am just fussy about that). I take a lactaid for my visit there because almost everything seems to have cheese, but it is delicious, so I am good with that. They do not seem to have regular sandwiches, everything is in a roll up, so if you don't like that, this is not the place for you. They also have a good selection of beverages, alcohol and non-alcoholic. I love their hot cider very much, and it is lovely after shopping in Salem on a cool day. They also have outdoor seating which is nice. There are a lot of dogs there though, so if they scare you, this may not be the place for you. The wait staff is just lovely. I have never had a surly or inept server there. They also seemed to be encouraged to be individuals, and I respect a place that does that. Located in a central spot. This area has a varied selection of shops ( love the kitchen shop and toy shop not far from there). If you go for no other reason, go because it is convenient. The bad: Not a great selection of foods. What they serve is wonderful though, just not a large selection and nothing "typical" so you need to go in with an adventurous spirit. I even got my friend who is a burger person to give the crepes a go. He seemed to like them a lot as he ate the entire thing. As with Harrison's up the road, there is little parking. Parking is metered, and they are strict about it, almost as bad as Cambridge. Bring lots of change (I forgot the rate).
(4)Jocelyn P.
I LOVE it here. I really haven't found many chill cafe type places where you can just hang out and read or do whatever... this is that place for me. I think it would be nice if they would put in a few couches or cushy chairs (those weird highback leather ones in the corner don't really cut it for me), but it's not a deal breaker for me. The coffee is always good and they are usually pretty good about checking back. I typically go during the day, and the service has been decent. I don't think I've hit "regular" status with the waitstaff yet, but they are all nice enough. In terms of speed, I've been in and out pretty quick when I needed to leave, but they are also good about leaving me alone when it's clear that I'm just sitting there studying. The soup is so good, and I always get the essjay wrap. SO GOOODDD. Usually they play pretty nice music, but sometimes they play super weird stuff and crank it... I've left early a few times to get away because it's so distracting. Overall, this place is my jam. I crave it and wish I lived closer so I could be a regular and convert all my friends to Gulu-ists.
(4)Mimi B.
On a cold afternoon I had lunch in this great cafe. Loved the atmosphere and the menu! Two of us got Panini and one a wrap. Very delicious with a small salad and chips included. The bread was a bit thick for our tastes--panini is all about the awesome crispiness of the grill and and melted fillings. With bread so thick this sort of missed the mark, but they were good sandwiches. Next time (and there will be a next time) I will get those awesome looking crepes or a salad. Both looked amazing. We all loved the place, just haven't found the right entree yet, but it is well worth going back to find something more yummy.....and beer of course.
(4)Em G.
wow. sat down at the only open table on a thursday night and was served two of the most uninspiring meals a crepe, a beer, and an especially atrocious martini they called "the giddy cocktail". i am telling you, it was ungodly - i ended up daring my friend to finish it for me. the decor screamed "ARENT WE DIFFERENT?!" and the presentation mumbled "at least we tried." they had a err.. "band" (??)playing, which consisted of a dude and his gameboy, not even kidding, playing covers of songs you didn't want to hear the original of, let alone the gameboy rendition. sort of cool while loafing on the internet, but i am trying to eat and converse, not hear the dubbed remix of ash riding his bike in a cave. all around awful experience. the only saving graces were our smiling server, the impressive beer list and the crepe. a real shame since i loved the atmosphere when i walked in (before kirby set up) - but i will not return for grub or drinks until i catch wind of some serious updates to the respective menus.
(2)Dan M.
My girlfriend and I went here for lunch on a Friday late afternoon. She got a Creme brûlée latte and I had an iced coffee, both were excellent! She had their soup of the day which she loved, we each got a panini and they were pretty good. I'll probably come back next time I'm in Salem. The only thing I didn't like was the open seating.
(4)Melissa F.
They had a couple of vegetarian options and a vegan wrap. Great food, nice people. I will definitely go back again
(4)Steve K.
The atmosphere is pretty nice. It's an 18+ eatery with a huge export and import beer list. You won't find bud, PBR, or Sam Adams here... but if you are looking for something different in the realm of beer, you are in Salem, and you are ready to try new and untapped resources in the non-booze alcohol department, I would give it a try. I don't generally get food here, but they do have a pretty amazing array of fresh cheeses and meats that you can get as a platter. If it is desert, espresso, or things of that nature... this could also be your go-to place. I personally wouldn't go here every day, nor would I say it is one of my favorite places, but if you are up in Salem and are a bit adventurous, I would definitely take a trip to Gulu Gulu. Oh, did I mention they have board games???
(3)Sea S.
We sat down, waited 45 minutes for our food, while the cook and our server ate dinner. The tables were dirty and so was the restaurant. Why does this place have such a good rating? We were fooled, hope you aren't.
(1)Stephanie H.
I have been here on numerous occasions and just thought I have reviewed it before. I go atleast once a month (if not more) most every month. If you are in a rush it is not the place to go. It is a relaxed, laid back, cafe style place. Sandwiches, meat & Cheese platter, grape leaves, panini sandwiches, salads, crepes to name a few of the things that are great about the menu. The beer selection and coffee are all great. Wine menu is eh but decent enough. Service is 99% of the time very slow.
(4)Meg M.
When you walk into Gulu Gulu, just BEING there makes you cooler. Okay so there may be a couple emo kids crying in the corner or some hipster kids trying to figure out a way to sit in their chairs with their tight pants on... but really? This place is awesome. My fiance took me here on a whim when we went on an adventure one sunny Sunday and I am so glad he did. Well, HO-LEE beer list was I happy to be there. Unfortunately we had already eaten a big lunch but next time I go in there I will go hungry. They have meat and cheese plates for extremely reasonable prices. They have so many unique sandwiches and vegetarian options that I seriously wanted to try 4 different selections and I wasn't even hungry. Ya know what else they have? Crepes. I saw em. They're legit. NEED to have them. The service was friendly and cool. We ordered some micro brews and I was pleased to see that they had my favorite beer (Victory Golden Monkey) for 5 bucks a bottle. Considering it's like drinking 2 beers at once, thats a good deal. The atmosphere of the place is chill, hip and inviting. I love love love the little Frenchie that they use as their mascot, and they sell some awesome shirts right off of the walls here. There is also an adorable outside seating area, but it was full when we arrived. They have a full list of live music on the chalk board for the entire month so you can scan ahead to see who you want to check out. I will be back for a full meal and a night out. It's the kind of place I could spend all night in. This is by far my favorite new spot, I just wish it was closer to Southie but in my opinion, it's worth the drive.
(5)Sarah S.
There seems to be a theme in a lot of the reviews - tasty food, cool atmosphere, great beer selection and really super slow service. The first few times my family and I went to Gulu Gulu we went during lunch hour and we waited quite a bit for everything - menus, drinks, food, the check, etc... We decided this time we'd stop in during off hours - 3PM on a Saturday afternoon. The patio had one table open and there were plenty of tables open inside. We did receive menus promptly and we were very excited . Sigh...that's where the speed ended. Drinks - 2 sodas in bottles - took about 20 minutes to arrive. Sandwiches - another 30 minutes. Dessert did arrive pretty quickly though and was delicious - s'more crepe! The food, I'd give it 4 stars. The panini need to be pressed and not just toasted but are very good. It's the service that kills the rating. There's no reason in the world for sandwiches to take over 45 minutes - closer to an hour - to arrive.
(3)M. A.
Regarding what I said in earlier reviews about the food? Scrap all that. They've severely jacked up prices on what used to be the affordable things, and the quantities, in some cases, have been cut in half. They just rolled out their new menu, and it has removed almost everything I ever ate here. And I'm sorry, I should not be paying as much for a Chicken Caesar Salad wrap as I would for a frigging piece of foie gras at Opus down the street. The drink menu's still pretty good (though anything mixed is way overpriced), but really, the only reason I ever come in now is habit, and the fact that friends sometimes come here, too. But I haven't eaten here in months. Such a shame.
(3)Joe Z.
I like Gulu Gulu Cafe a lot. It's got a great bohemian feel to it. The food is excellent. They have really interesting sandwiches and a fantastic beer and wine selection. All is not perfect, however. The service tends to be on the slow side. And by slow I mean really slow. Another note of caution is that when it's busy, as it often is, it's very noisy. The cafe has mostly bare walls and floors so the sound bounces around a whole lot. I've only been there for lunch. I know that they have bands and DJ nights. I can't imagine what it sounds like for those events. The acoustic foam on the bottom of the stairs is just not cutting it folks.
(4)Adam E.
Fruli beer is amazing, and this was the first place I saw it outside of Amsterdam. Good start! My girls and I had a few with our sandwiches here before facing the streets of Salem, and we were very glad we did. Because we needed a buffer. All those families and phobes who voted for Scott Brown, ugh. No thank you. So I was glad to find an oasis of hipness where I felt somewhat shielded from Nickleback and open stares. The staff here in the afternoon was fun and friendly, with none of that shitty superior attitude you get from "cool" kids in crappy towns.The patrons were another story. I understand the impulse, like "I'm the coolest person for miles, I can treat you like dump." It reeks of insecurity, but I get it. The DJ who asked us to move while we were mid-meal was an example of that. Luckily, our waitress told us not to pay him any mind. We didn't intend to, but appreciated her redemptive words. Sadly, she couldn't make up for the overcrowded room and schizophrenic mix of stroller-toting obnoxious families and cooler-than-thou jerks. On a less busy day, I think this place would be completely awesome, and I know it's not their fault that some of the patrons are kind of horrible, but it does impact the experience. The other negative was the evening, when we went to have a few drinks and dance. The goth girl (oh hi, 1994, good to see you again) at the door said the place was full when we stopped by, even though it was way more crowded that afternoon. I mean, Gulu Gulu is aight, but it feels like a little brother who wants so desperately to be rebellious and cool that it just comes off as super annoying. Or those girls in college who have the poster of the two girls in lingerie kissing. Please.
(3)Jose G.
What a great little find!!!! we got there totally by accident on a recent trip to Salem from Florida and went back the next day for more. Yes, it was that cool!!! You will not be disapointed
(5)Caitie R.
My boyfriend and I are pretty regular customers at Gulu Gulu. The atmosphere is laid back and the prices are pretty reasonable (it usually costs us about $25 or so for the both of us, including tip, depending on what we get). The food is delicious (I usually get a chicken salad wrap and I've also tried the "Berry Nice" crepe). Anywhere that has chai tea also gets points from me. All of the staff we've encountered has been really nice, as well. One of the only downsides to Gulu Gulu is the seating. I've only been to the cafe on one occasion when it was very full and had to wait only about ten or so minutes for a seat, which wasn't a problem, but having the option to sit where you want especially if you're coming here for food is key. I find sitting on the couches very hard if you're actually trying to enjoy a meal, but maybe that's just me.
(4)Joanna L.
Probably one of Salem's coolest places to hang out. Mostly a cafe with sandwiches, but known for good charcuterie boards. Cheese and meat platters are pick-your-own, and reasonable in price. For two people, two cheeses and meats should be enough for sharing. This place is a hangout and a snack joint - don't come here with the mindset of getting a great MEAL. The fun is in the linger, and the lazing. They have board games and good live entertainment on weekends. It's funky, spunky, and indie, and foodie. Like a coffee shop - but with meats and cheeses. Staff is nice and upbeat, kinda like baristas. A definite try for locals, or people looking to while away a few hours in town.
(4)Christina D.
I've been going to the Gulu Gulu since it opened its Salem location, but I have yet to have a completely satisfying experience while I'm there. Starting off with the good. The food is excellent with pretty generous servings for the price. A good selection of loose leaf and iced teas, decent coffee and lattes, and the drink menu is impressive (although I'm not old enough to order a beer just yet). Also LOVE that it's the only place in Salem open after midnight on weekends that isn't 21+ or full of drunk sports fans or bad karaoke. Unfortunately, the service has always been less than impressive, as already stated in most other reviews. It often takes 10 minutes (usually more) to get a waiter's attention, and I've also received many wrong orders - even the simplest things, such as getting a decaf latte as opposed to a regular. Also - as much as I like hanging out at Gulu on a Friday night - the live music is usually too experimental and strange for me to handle. But no matter what, I still enjoy going to Gulu every now and then. Hopefully their service improves so the good will eventually outweigh the bad.
(3)Sarah K.
Came to Salem w/ the intention of going to Coven Cafe for post-half-marathon recovery lunch (cheese? bread? meat? yes, please). Was very sad to discover that Coven does NOT exist anymore (not from the area, so I missed that memo). However, am very pleased that the no-Coven led us to try out Gulu Gulu instead. You can make your own meat & cheese plate, which comes with a substantial amount of delicious, crusty bread - awesome. (Get the marinated brie and the mustard cheddar!) Lots of tasty sandwich options - my husband described the turkey/manchego/apple butter panini as "a religious experience". After lots of begging and pleading, I got to steal a bite - he wasn't wrong. Didn't order any crepes (this time), but there were sweet and savory options, and they looked amazing. Will happily go back the next time I'm in the area.
(4)Laura D.
I used to love this place, but now I'm kinda 'meh' about it. The food is good, and they have decent entertainment, but the service has gone way down hill.
(3)Brenna R.
Great lunch menu! A great place to meet up with friends! Atmosphere is relaxing. Food is very very good!
(4)Angela Q.
I may have given this place more stars had we actually EATEN there. Instead we pulled up a seat at the bar and were ignored for 10 minutes before rudely being asked if we planned on eating and then told that if we were the wait for food was 45 minutes. And it wasn't even very busy. Boooo
(1)Anthony R.
Horrible food, miserable people, stay away. This place is literally the worst restaurant I have ever encountered in my life. Unless you enjoy eating food that tastes like cat throw up, and talking to people that think they are gods gift to the universe, do not go here. Spend your money on anything else or just throw it away because this place doesn't deserve it.
(1)liza c.
There is a giant Boston Terrier head on the front of this building. How could anyone not go in?! Seriously, though, once you get back the extreme cuteness of Gulu Gulu's mascot, you realize that the cafe isn't half bad. In fact, it's pretty great. Coming from Philly, it's hard to be satisfied with the dining options of a small town so considering what we were up against during this trip, we were pleasantly surprised. Everyone is really friendly at GGC and the dining room is spacious, yet cozy. Plus there is an outdoor seating option with a decent view of downtown Salem's goings-ons. Also, great beer list for a small town like Salem! Things to improve on - desserts were tasty, but possibly not that fresh. And our waittress mayyyy have been stoned and not in a funny way.
(4)Etta M.
Mmm! Met some friends for drinks and snackies on Saturday afternoon. We each had a cheese and meat plate, it was so tasty! We were given plenty of time to sit at our table and sip on our beers (or italian soda in my case) and enjoy each other's company. The waitstaff was wonderful and helpful. I will be going back for sure.
(5)Lisa J.
Gulu Gulu cafe was introduced t me last year by my sister and I have been going there at least monthly ever since. The staff is laid back and friendly, the menu is very interesting and the atmosphere is chill. Their Beer selection is great. They have a rotating tap menu that is always fresh and will have something for everyone. Their bottled selection is well thought out and doesn't contain Coors, Budlight or Corona ;) They support local artists, have music and open mic nights and band performances. Be sure to check the events board above the bar or the website before planning an evening there. If you don't and just show up there might be a huge crowd waiting for a band to perform or some such. I'm pretty sure they offer free wifi and you can sit and read by the window in one of their comfy chairs and sip a latte all day if you want without being harassed. If you're looking for good food, good atmosphere, friendly servers and NO Yeah Dudes then this is the place for you!
(4)Lauren F.
Gulu Gulu Cafe has outdoor seating, an extensive beer list (including Framboise!) and an interesting menu of crepes and sandwiches. My husband and I have been there twice, and I don't think I can go again without ordering the Meat and Cheese Coalition - a plate of 3 meats and cheeses you pick out from a list. The habanero cheddar is hot! So far everything I've ordered there has been good: ham and Brie crepe, blue cheese salad (nice amount of blue cheese, pears, and walnuts). I do think the service could be a little more attentive though. The last time we went our waitress forgot about us and another server reminded her to come out and give us the check - d'oh!
(4)Kate P.
My husband and I went in here last night. We were drawn to the cute decor, the vegetarian-friendly menu, and the chance to eat outdoors on what was a crisp fall evening. The food was good, but ultimately the service wasn't great. My husband's appetizer came out with another table's appetizers and they didn't bring mine out. His was soup and since we were outdoors on a chilly evening, so he really didn't have a choice but to eat it. Our main courses came out while he was still eating his soup, and they brought my appetizer (salad) at the same time. I told the food runner who dropped off the food that I didn't want my salad anymore since my main course was there. She said that she didn't think it would be possible to remove from the bill, and I asked to speak to a manager. She said there wasn't a manager on duty, and I reaffirmed that we needed it to come off the bill. Our server then came out and said she put the salad in as an appetizer (implying she had done her part but the kitchen or someone else had made the mistake) and that it was policy not to take things off the bill. She said she could wrap it for us to take with us. We said that because we didn't live around there, that wouldn't work for us and we would need it off the bill. These things happen, and I know that servers can't always handle these situations on their own / without the involvement of a manager, so we probably would have just dealt with it and paid for the salad, except our server seemed ticked off or offended by the situation and that's when service really dropped off. Although there was an empty drink glass on the table, she didn't ask if we wanted more drinks (as she was walking away we had to call after her and ask for more drinks). The food runner checked on us during our meal and asked how our food was. The runner was also the one who ultimately picked up our plates when we were done. The next thing the server did was drop the check off. She didn't ask if we wanted desert or coffee or more drinks. She just dropped the check and ran. (We probably would have stayed around and ordered desert.) The check had the salad on it. If she had bothered to acknowledge the situation again and say something along the lines of, "I'm sorry for what happened, but I'm afraid I can't take the salad off the bill" we would have been like, "sure, we get it, it's not a problem". But the fact that she never apologized, dropped the check and ran, and didn't seem to give a damn about us after the issue with the salad, said to us that this place needs some serious Service 101 for its servers. We wanted what we were paying for and asked for a new salad to take with us. They did this and in less than 5 minutes, it was in our hands and we were out the door. In the end, they threw a salad away and are getting a thumbs down review here. It would have been better if they managed to get the first salad out in less than 5 minutes, took it off the bill, or just apologized. Next time we're in Salem, we'll be staying away from this place.
(1)Janet D.
Funky little place in center city Salem. Get the cheese and meat platter for a wonderful midday snack or appetizer. The sage cheese is smooth and tasty and the red dragon is a unique texture and flavor. Add a glass of wine or a pint. A great place to just relax! Service is relaxed, friendly and good.
(5)JuliaJolie J.
I really used to like this place. It used to be my absolute favourite cafe/bar to hang out in and I used to go in there every day, starting a few months after it opened. Then, suddenly - well, over the last few months, it just...changed. I blame the open mic night. I went to their first one and it was godawful. It's improved since then, but I feel as though every time I go in there, there should be an ABC Family film crew shooting some tender but clichéd pivotal college date scene there. The vibe has totally changed and the café has just become an overstuffed, hipper-than-thou parody of itself. What happened to the Wii game night? Or movie nights on Tuesdays? Instead of keeping a variety of theme nights, music and movies it just feels like I've wandered into some pretentious hipster's never-ending housewarming party. It seems like no-one seems to work, everyone's just standing outside smoking [cigarettes, but you know they all would smoke pot if they could] and bad music from someone's limited-selection iPod (because no other mp3 players exist) is blaring, annoying to the point of being invasive. This place used to feel like a real café/bar. It had a unique thing going in that they served coffee (which really isn't that good) as well as beer (which really is good, but overpriced). The free wi-fi is great, and I don't have to listen to any obnoxious sports broadcast. The staff are extremely cordial, so don't get me wrong. But what's the point in going there when it just feels like someone's party? I hate going in there now, so I hardly ever do. It just feels like some little scenester club now. Like someone's private little in-joke, where everyone just seems to know everyone and it really is just some giant, loud, obnoxious party. And because I know I just want to sit quietly and be my nerdy self on the internet, I feel like I'm just not welcome there.
(1)Karla U.
i came here as a tourist recently while visiting a friend. I must say the atmosphere is really cool, very "rebellious" very "punk rock" or "rockabilly" type. Good selection of beer. And they have veggie treats. The decor is very artsy and doesn't feel like a tourist trap. :D We had the Marinated Brie cheese starter.......omg. it was heaven on earth, the flavors of the Olive Oil and the brie mixing together in that creamy goodness was just delightful, something I hope to taste again. the flavor is strong, but the cream of the brie soothes it down. Then we had the Grapeleaves had a strong favor, but it comes with a yogurt dip, so it was really good. I notice they mix flavors here a lot, and I like that. The service was ok, I do remember though, me and my friend drinking our water slowly. The staff seemed really nice, they have lots of art stuff all over, and I think they sell art work on their website. The food here was fabulous, filling, and not cheesy tourist crap, I also had the Lyon Vegeterian Panini, SO GOOD! OMG! artichokes just teased me and made me go SQUEE! the sandwich just tasted wonderful, and melted in my mouth. You have to try this! :D I would go back when I go visit my friend again. :D If your'es in the Salem area, and want to get away from the cheesy witch stuff, GO HERE you'll be glad you did. :D check it!
(5)Beth G.
I'm so grateful that a place like this exists in Salem. It's a cool cafe w/funky art, friendly vibe, good food, great beer and wine selection. The service can be pretty slow, but then again what's the rush when one is in a nice space? Hence, go when you have time to relax for a bit. When people come to visit we always stop at the Gulu, and our visitors are typically impressed. Even when people aren't visiting, we like to go here w/groups for shows. The bands and DJ are usually quite fun. The menu is quite varied and while I have tried other sandwiches/ apps, etc, I keep going back to the same thing: the Hearty Vegetarian wrap. So good! in a spinach wrap... boursin cheese... artichoke hearts... yum... The nice thing though is that if you see something under the panini choices and you would rather it in a wrap, they'll do it, no problem. Oh, but let me let you in on a little secret: ask about their specialty drink (non-alcoholic). Last year it was a delicious ginger lemonade; this year it's a rooibos iced tea. And oh.my .god is it heavenly! Ask for it and thank me later ;)
(4)Kelly S.
This is one of my favorite places in Salem, which rules as it's just a short walk from my apartment. The food is great, very veg*n friendly, and a great beer list! I generally go for lunch, it just has that relaxing mid-day kind of vibe. I also note the "scene kid" vibe, but whatever. That's something I can easily look over. More importantly, the staff is friendly. This is a great place to meet up with friends or read a book by yourself. Really glad Salem offers a place like this.
(5)G M.
Impressive, we really enjoyed their menu! So many interesting choices! Unfortunately we only had time for lunch before going to our next destination. From outside, it didn't seem like much, but once seated we were impressed with the atmosphere. (However, I don't think we'd enjoy being here for live music night.) It seemed to be an eclectic place where you can have a conversation with lunch, or check your email over coffee. There were even books and board games in the corner. They appeared to have a bar, but I can't say for certain. They have a tiny outdoor seating area, which I imagine is always full! The food was really good. I had a really nice chicken sandwich with apple butter, and my wife was very pleased with her coffee. Also they had bottled soda instead of fountain, for which I applaud them. (Fountain soda tends to be replete with bacteria.) My wife comments that although she liked her sandwich, much of the chicken was fatty and inedible. The waitress was friendly and fairly attentive. Oh! And they had a sticker in their window for Yelp, which is how I discovered this site!
(4)Jessica S.
Great place, great food, great atmosphere! I had a Turkey Club wrap and a Creme Brulee latte, and it was wonderful! My friends all got savory crepes, and they looked so delicious, I'm going to have to go back and get one myself! Too bad I'm not a Salem native, because I'd go here all the time!!
(4)Christopher R.
We are planning on buying a home in Salem soon so have been spending a lot of time there looking at Open Houses and exploring the non tourist areas. We usually eat at Finz or Salem Beer Works when we are in Salem as they are two of our faves. We wanted something quick in the downtown area, that was not too heavy or too expensive. We always park near and walk by Gulu Gulu but decided this time to pop in and try it. The atomosphere is casual (they also have a great outdoor eating area), a little funky and very open. This is the kind of place I could see myself becoming a regular at. Maybe getting lunch, hanging in one of the chairs or couches, with my lap top on thier free WiFi. We started with the Cheese and Meat Coalition!! Chorizo, goat cheese and gouda. I had the Chicken Cordon Bleu Crepe. I was ecstatic that there were some French items on the menu (quite a few actually). This crepe was out of this world good. The flavors were so right on and the crepe was perfectly cooked. I will defintely be coming back here and trying everything on the menu as it all sounds so GOOD!!!
(5)Gina C.
This place was one of the best places I have eaten in a long time. I got the Munich panini and it was probably the best roast beef I have ever had. The service was attentive but not annoyingly present. The atmosphere was really relaxed, it was a younger crowd for the most part but there were a couple of older guys getting some coffee. While I didn't drink, there beer selection was unreal. This place is a must go if you are in the area.
(5)K M.
I love love love this place! They use amazing loose leaf tea and you get your own little teapot. Amazing atmosphere and a comfy couch. Only complaint is the seat yourself rule which leads to a free for all i.e. one couple taking up a table for 6??? Other than that it's adorable
(4)Stumbalina b.
I really wanted to like Gulu Gulu, but my visit was a bust. If not for this review, i'm sure I won't remember the decidely underwhelming sandwich (Lyon Veg) with an unimpressive side dish and truly disappointing service. We left hungry and frustrated. At best, they have an impressive array of beer and they seem to wisely avoid making "witch" puns.
(1)Vanilla P.
Wonderful beer selection, slightly overpriced but worth it for the selection and recommendations by the staff. Our waitress was very knowledgeable about the different beers we asked about, which is lovely when you pretend to be cultured (us not her). Hummus: sucky Daily soup: yum, clam chowder Panini: warm and flavorful... I think it was the Barcelona. Service: friendly. We went around 2 and the place was empty, so our waitress was very attentive and helpful with suggestions.
(4)Jamie P.
This is really a 3.5 star review. I enjoy this place because it has great beers on tap and the food is delicious. The Paninis are some of the best around. They also have board games which can be really fun when your drinking with some friends! I also love that it's a different scene from every other bar in Salem. However the entertainment is really hit and miss. Some bands are entertaining and some are terrible. We have seen a few acts that are just painful to listen too. All that being said, I will definitely be back to the Gulu Gulu.
(3)Anthony M.
I went to gulu gulu cafe in the hopes of finding a different kind of cafe and after reading the reviews and checking it out myself, I was not disappointed. We went on a dinner and a movie night. (which I want to steal along with a couple other ideas) I do not remember the name of the movie but there was a good crowd and everybody there seemed almost like a family. Strangers were talking to one another and sharing stories and playing games. They have board games to play if you feel the urge to get a game going. I noticed that they have risk so I might have to come by and play some time. The service was great. The server really seemed to like his job and had a great deal of knowledge about the vast variety of unusual beers on tap and in bottle. The owners have done a fantastic job putting a cafe together that makes patrons and employees feel welcome and a place that you can be yourself. I also really liked that the menu was so different from other places, and that on the back under FAQ's it even said to not be afraid to try new things. The food was good, we tried some new stuff which is always fun! Atmosphere was very cool, I love the Christmas lights in the window (something i really need to get back in my place) The only complaints I have is that the grape leaf app. was under seasoned, and they have regular Gouda, not smoked... Smoked is SO much better! I will DEFINITELY go back, I want to check out some different entertainment nights.
(4)Waldo J.
My wife and I went here for lunch recently. I had the red pepper tapenade and a ham and brie crêpe, she had the macaroni and cheese. Both of our meals came with salads. My portions were reasonable, through she was given enough mac and cheese to choke a horse. The wait time was fine, the service friendly, if disorganized. (For example, we were given twice as many napkins and knives as we needed, but no forks.) The food wasn't outstanding, but it wasn't bad. The prices were wholly reasonable. Selection was good, but not suspciously broad. Though I wouldn't return, it's only because I'd like to try other restaurants in the area, not because there was anything wrong with Gulu-Gulu.
(3)Misty S.
Very happy that this opened in Salem! Great food, great beer, great wine, great coffee. And Jack and Max rock.
(4)Jennifer P.
Ok so we were visiting on an off season weekend which sucked because it was rainy and cold and everything was closed. We were told about this place by the owner of the B&B we were staying at. So we decided to go in and get some coffee to warm up. Our waiter was Super and we had coffee with a kick mine was the Italian one with Amaretto and Frangelico and my gf had the chocolate mint one with peppermint schnapps. We also ordered warm banana bread and omg it was tasty and one order is 3-slices. Wow nothing like NYC and the prices were so reasonable. Too bad its alway the in Salem I would love to have the option of hanging out here on a weeknight especially for the live music they have. There's always something going on here....
(4)Kimberly H.
I was bringing a friend to Salem while she was in town visiting and needed some fuel before starting our dorky witch hunting excursions. We noticed Gulu Gulu Cafe from across the street and hopped inside. Right off the bat I loved the feel of the place. It was a little bit artsy and a lot bit inviting. My friend in Gluten intolerant and were so happy to see that they offered a Gluten free tortilla on all of their wraps. Since I (for now) still have a stomach of steel I went for the Istanbul Panini: smoked turkey, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and pesto on grilled bread. I asked for fresh basil to be added (doooo it) and it was just perfect! You know you have a good sandwich on your hands when you don't even think about needing additional condiments. All of the sandwiches come with a small lightly dressed salad and potato chips ... you don't even make me choose? ... Gulu Gulu we are going to be good friends. We also grabbed a couple of meats and cheeses from the charcuterie menu and were stuffed! That being said our server offered us a Gluten free blueberry pie and of course we adjusted our belts and went for it. The pie crust was not my favorite, but hey, it was something we could both eat. The filling was good enough that I would order it again. Will most definitely be back next time I am in Salem!
(4)Salem X.
One day, the elder beer Gods got together for a meeting in their palace high atop a Belgian mountain range. All six of the Gods were present for this very special occasion: Vera, Mickey, Fritz, Olaf, Lord Rumplebottom and Paco. The purpose of the meeting was to create a place with just a dozen or so taps, but whose taps would have such varied quality beers that it would rival even the most over tapped beer snob hang outs. Vera suggested the place should serve cheese. Mickey insisted it remain open late into the night, with a full menu. Fritz said it should have the Cojones to serve seasonal beers at any time of the year, regardless of season. Olaf proclaimed there shall be music and movies the help pass the time while drinking. Lord Rumplebottom growled that prices should be reasonable and service friendly. Paco didn't say much of anything - he was wasted. But through his drunken stupor, he was able to mumble something about how the place should be located in Salem, Massachusetts on the Eastern Coast of the US; all agreed. And so the Gulu Gulu Cafe was born.
(4)Kaitlin B.
We visited Gulu Gulu twice during a weekend stay in Salem. The first was late night for drinks with a large group. The selection was great, but service was a little slow and my fiance was served a beer that was definitely not what he ordered. We went back again in the morning for breakfast and were very underwhelmed. The service was incredibly slow and the food was mediocre. I wouldn't go back for more than drinks.
(2)Jessica W.
Eh. I don't hate it. The food is really great, when you finally get a table, but it is a bit over crowded most of the time. They have really great cheese plates that come with a ton of stuff. You can choose 3 cheeses for $9 with toasted bread. They don't have a full bar, which for me is a bit of a downer. I am not a huge beer drinker, but if you are you'll love the beer selection. Though they have a chocolate martini that is LITERALLY one of the best drinks I've ever had. Overall, the food is great it's just too crowded most of the time.
(3)Kelly A.
Gulu-Gulu is Salem is a great place to hang out and grab drinks with friends. There's really cool artwork on the wall, the staff is really nice, the music is fantastic, and the menu is very veg-friendly. I went there for dinner last night with the boy, and then a friend joined us for drinks post-food. Vegetarian grape leaves were great (served with hot pita triangles and yogurt). The mac and cheese (smallish appetizer portion, served alongside a bit of greens) mixes roasted red peppers, cheddar, and goat cheese into a decent elbow dish. Wraps are pretty good. Banana Chocolate crepe is fantastic. Iced tea is strong, freshly-brewed, and lovely. Beer list is fairly extensive. Sometimes they have live music, and sometimes they show movies.
(4)Tim A.
Cool atmosphere, good food selection, great beer list. The service has been really good every time I've been here. There aren't a lot of good options for vegetarians in Salem, so this place stands out.
(4)Amy C.
Gave Gulu another try and I must say it was so much better. I will give the owner mad props for emailing me directly when I posted a bad review. That takes character and I'm happy to see that some of the things we talked about were much improved. The service was very good, the food quality was fresh and I was also glad to see this place was packed. I mean every single table was full and that is a great sign for Salem. I ended up getting the smoked turkey, bacon, tomato on grilled ciabatta . The little side salad had a great balsamic dressing. I will definitely come back and that is a good thing!
(4)L. G.
This is a great spot in Salem. They have a great beer selection, delicious food and live music. My kind of place. I've been here a few times and always have a great time. I've had a few different appetizers and wraps and everything is phenomenal. The only down side is that it's pretty small and fills up quickly on the weekends, so if you want to get a seat you have to get there early.
(4)Felicia S.
SERVICE: Service has always been fantastic and I've never had an issue being waited on. FOOD: Food is always great. My absolute favorite wrap there is "The Essjay" its a hummus and fruit wrap, so delicious and a perfect pairing of flavors. ATMOSPHERE: I enjoy the cozy seating and very homey feel to the place. ATMOSPHERE-CONS: Some nights Gulu Gulu cafe hosts live music and to be honest, I just don't see it as the right establishment to host such loud music. I'll admit I even like the idea that there is place where people can meet up, listen to music, and relax. I just don't think a small cafe like the Gulu Gulu should be used like a concert hall. Unfortunately, the live bands turn into tight college parties that don't allow for any seating on those given nights. God forbid you did get a seat, you wouldn't be able to talk with the person across from you. On those nights I recommend that most customers order take-out.
(4)Chris S.
I've been growing a mustache for Movember, so I felt comfortable enough in a hipster environment to check this place out. I thought it was well organized with a line at one end of the bar for ordering drinks. It took away the unpleasant act of reaching between seated patrons to place an order, take your drink and then pay. I thought the atmosphere was pretty cool, there was a guy spinning records in the front and some sort of film playing behind him...didn't pay enough attention to it to figure out what it was. I thought their beer selection was good, however I would have liked to have seen more representation from the Mass Brewers Guild (we have great breweries here in MA). The bartender seemed knowledgeable and friendly, and I thought there prices were very fair, especially on the higher alc beers. Looking forward to checking out the food at some point.
(3)Alex L.
I came in here after multiple recommendations. I know now to try the crepes next time, but I had the mac and cheese. It was very different from what you'd expect from mac and cheese but very delicious. The beer selection is very good. I ordered a chcolate stout, but that being out they had a BBC stout that was equally good. I will be back.
(4)Kylie H.
YAY! I love it. I can't say anything about their food because I haven't eaten here yet, but they have a great beer selection. Anywhere that has Victory Golden Monkey reasonably priced I'm a fan of. Amazing atmosphere here as well. I am looking forward to going back to try their food.
(4)Miss B.
I've been going to this Gulu-Gulu and the original location in Lynn (now closed) since they opened. I really appreciate the unique ambiance and eclectic selection of beers and wines, not to mention the many vegetarian options on the menu! I'm a big fan of the cheese platter, the spiced cider, the delicious variety of sweet or savory crepes (don't make me choose a favorite!) and I often get the Cranberry Salad- but there are others that are equally tasty. They have art by local artist featured and for sale on the walls, they show movies or sometimes have live music. I've noticed the service isn't as good as it used to be, however. The last time I went there, there was a sign that told us to go inside if we wanted patio seating. Then when we got inside, there was a sign at the hostess desk telling us to seat ourselves. We waited for a few minutes by the host podium, but nobody greeted us and the place seemed busy, so we then decided to seat ourselves at a table outside. We waited again for about 5-10 minutes without anyone coming to us. We noticed some people leaving so we went back inside to see if there were any empty tables yet. There were, so we sat ourselves. After several more minutes, someone came over and took our drink order and served us. Once we finally got served, the service was courteous and attentive. I think that the wait staff here have too much on their hands, and that they are a bunch of local students that don't really care about the restaurant. The place is doing really well for itself these days, so maybe the owners don't realize what's going on as far as the customer experience goes. I think the pricing is right-on for fresh, unique ingredients like the stuff served here. The portions aren't huge, but it's really more of a cafe, not a dinner place. I think this a great place for a date, provided you're not in a rush or starving, because the service might take some time...
(3)JR D.
I've been to Gulu Gulu a couple times now, mainly for a late breakfast on weekdays. Apparently it's a perfect time because it's never super busy, although there's always a few tables. The coffee drinks are unique from what I've typically seen. Granted, I go to Starbucks and my extent of a unique drink is a pumpkin spice latte, but the drinks are interesting enough for me to try (i.e. Creme brulee latte, Andes latte, etc). Everything I've had is delicious. I'm definitely a beer kinda gal, and this place has a great selection. It's a good range of different types of beer, so almost any beer drinker you go with will be satisfied. I noticed today that they have Spaten Oktoberfest on the list, which means I will be headed there soon just for that. Wine selection looked vast as well, and my friends talk about how they have absinthe on the menu in a favorable manner. The food menu is outstanding. Crepes any time of the day? Yes please! Breakfast sandwiches with your not so typical ingredients (prosciutto egg and manchego cheese, DROOL!). Paninis that come in all kinds. A meat and cheese plate that my friend RAVES about. Vegetarian options available for the no-meat-eaters. It really caters to just about anyone that walks in, and I love that. Service is always friendly, and yeah, it's not super fast, but usually when I go in, I'm not looking to run in and out. They seem to have a ton of "events" in the evenings, from movie nights to open mic nights to DJs to bands to whatever else you can think of. I've only been in once for an evening, and it was over a year ago, so other than the fact that I went and had good beer, I don't remember it, so I couldn't tell ya how the atmosphere is in the evening. I do remember it being pretty packed, though. I highly recommend this place to someone who likes good food and beer, with an almost coffeehouse atmosphere to it. Try to grab a couch if you can on a night when you want to cozy up to your honey! I will definitely be returning to Gulu Gulu and will hopefully have an opportunity to try EVERYTHING on the mouth watering menu!
(4)Kira K.
I like this place because it's laid back, has fun staff, and the food is good. It appeals to meat-eaters and vegetarians alike as well as coffee drinkers and beer drinkers. There is something for everyone. The thing I really like about Gulu Gulu is that it's completely un-hipster. A lot of the coffee places that I've been to that offer live entertainment or have beer on tap seem to be the types of places that you want to be seen at. Not so with Gulu Gulu. It's just a bunch of real people with real appetites looking for a great bite to eat and something good to drink. The service does run on the slow side, but order a beer, slow down and enjoy. It is a very calming atmosphere. Let it sink in. It's a great place to take a friend or loved one to eat if you actually want to have a conversation. You're never seated too close to anyone else, it's never so loud that you can't hear each other, and depending on how close you are, there are a couple of cozy couches to sit on together and enjoy the live music. This is always my go-to lunch spot when I go to the Peabody Essex Museum.
(4)Tamara D.
This is an overall good review for Gulu Gulu. I only have one negative. I've been going to Gulu Gulu for over two years now. What can I say?? I love the food, the atmosphere and the awesome service. The artwork on the walls are always a good conversation starter. The different types of music and people always make it very interesting. There are so many different types of foods to choose from. I usually stick with the Paninis or the wraps. My favorite sandwiches are the Great Porto and the Palermo. Sooooooooo good. The Mac n Cheese is a taste sensation. Almost.... Almost.... as good as my own. Danny is always great and makes the best coffee concoctions. He also makes very good recommendations on food choices. I always end up trying something new and loving it. Sue Ann (SJ) is also another great server. Drinks are always refilled and she is always around to see if you need anything. She is always very happy. She's also very fast and you are never left waiting. I would advise to not have Katie wait on you. I've only had her once and she was subpar at best. I thought maybe she was having an off night and decided to brush off that negative experience. However, last night I was able to observe her once again. She still wasn't friendly and seemed to have a scowl tattooed on her face. I actually felt sorry for the patrons being waited on by her. I know she is fairly new. Hopefully, she will learn that a smile goes a long way and to check her bad day at the door before she clocks in for work. The customers shouldn't suffer for it. Gulu Gulu ranks high on my list of favorite restaurants in Salem. I usually go like twice a month. I always recommend it to family, friends, and coworkers. It's good, fun, reasonable and well.... I just like it!
(4)Teju P.
I randomly stopped in here with my family, and we thought its was alright. What is excellent: Service Atmosphere Italian Soda Goat Cheese/Roasted Red Pepper Mac & Cheese Portobella, Spinach, and Basil crepe What is NOT excellent: Viennesse Vegetarian panini - very small Sweet Crepe with Green Apples, Strawberry, Almond, and honey (name is escaping me now) very crunch and difficult to eat because the contents kept breaking the crepe.
(3)Cindy M.
What a great place to just sit back and relax! My boyfriend and I visited Gulu over the weekend and we were quite impressed with the whole vibe of the place and will definitely be going back some time soon. I know a few people have commented on the nightlife in this establishment however we were there during the day and found it quite pleasant. I had a cappuccino that was out of this world! When I took my spoon to try the foam, it seemed like I was digging into a decadent dessert. The beer list is quite extensive and impressive. We didn't have anything to eat but are planning on getting a bite when we return!!
(4)Anna S.
I have been back a few times, and I just need to reiterate what a fantastic restaurant this is. I have dragged family, friends, and new lovers to this place. Every single time the food is fresh and unbelievably yummy. The service is great, the people watching is great, and the drinks are great. I can't give Gulu Gulu cafe a high enough recommendation. Please keep this awesome place in business!
(5)Lauren V.
Even though I had a great time at Gulu Gulu Cafe, I thought "maybe I shouldn't let my personal experience impact the rating", but then I smartened up and thought "clearly Gulu Gulu is a place that is conducive to good times". And so, the four star rating stands. I came here with 7 other people on a Thursday night. We turned two corners of the restaurant into our own little gypsy camps until we were able to snag a table. The waitress didn't seem to mind our migratory pattern and was able to stay on top of our numerous drink, cake and crepe orders. She wasn't the most friendly, but I had enough people to chat with and she did her job fine so no bother. Each night has a theme. Thursday night was live music. There is a fairly-large stage (considering the overall size of the place) and the acoustics aren't too bad. It might have been nice if the band was a bit more ambient or quiet- there was a lot of musical chairs as we tried to accommodate conversation over the music. On a side note, I was not a huge fan of the band coming around and asking everyone for money. We had been sitting down for about 5 minutes when a band member came over, whined (ok, not really) that they weren't getting paid by the bar and held out his hand. Kind of awkward. When my sister mentioned she didn't carry cash, he asked "You don't? Weird." Anyways, they have a big list of wines, beers (not crap beers either) and cocktails. If you are DD, there are Italian sodas, coffees, teas and smoothies. I would definitely recommend a piece of Chocolate Mousse Cake and although I did not personally try one, each crepe had about a 2 minute life span once it landed on our table. I will definitely be back.
(4)Richard D.
I stopped in here with a friend after a day of cycling around the area. We grabbed a couch in the back with a coffee table. They have a pretty good wine list and the salmon crepes were fantastic. The waitress was perfect: she didn't hover (the place was not very busy at 4:30), but was attentive enough and quick to refill both water and wine glasses (important after a hot day of cycling). I'll be back!
(4)Amanda Z.
Heard about this place from a bunch of co-workers that live down the street from it. Has a very chill atmosphere with an eccentric array of seating. Wait staff is very nice. I went on a Friday in the late afternoon and there was only one waitress. As the place started to fill up and orders came in she was able to keep up with everyone and not make anyone feel like they were having to wait for their food. They have live shows there, though I didn't stay long enough that night to see who was performing. Excellent beer selection, fantastic chowder!
(4)John G.
Just an incredible place. I took a day trip to Salem last Sunday by myself and pulled up a barstool at the Gulu Gulu Cafe. From start to finish just a wonderful experience. Not much that I can add that hasn't already been said. Great beer selection, awesome atmosphere. I would like to pay tribute to the staff here last Sunday. Both bartenders were attentive and cool and the waitresses were jovial and engaging (is is Yelp-professional to say that they were HOT too? Probably Not.) I'll be taking another daytrip to Salem soon cos I do love that town, and I'll definitely be back the Gulu Gule Cafe.
(5)Frank B.
I really, really want to like this place. Coming from Davis Square in Somerville, I've been spoiled by great, funky, unique places to grab a beer/bite/coffee. So now that I live in the land of "gothic revival", I was glad to see such a place open up. I've been to Gulu-Gulu about a dozen times, for a variety of purposes: tea while i get work done; beers with friends; lunch; night out to listen to music. In each case, there are a few recurring themes. First, the service is astoundingly slow, even when the place is empty. I know its trying to through out the euro chillax avec cafe thing. But seriously, if I'm making repeated eye contact, come over. And how long does it take to pull a draft of beer? Second, the place is over-priced. For $8, a sandwhich had better be amazing. They're OK, but nothing to get excited about (to contrast, see Dave's Fresh Pasta in the aforementioned square). The crepes taste gritty and bland, sort of like tortillas before they've been fried. Ok, so some good news? The music is usually pretty good and not too loud. The beer selection is great, though it SEVERELY suffers a lack of affordable (less than $4.50) options. Hello? High Life? Or at least some Polish equivalent? The sandwiches are pretty good, and the atmosphere creative. Improvements to the quality, speed of service, and price of beer would easily make this a 5-star rating and a place to treasure in my new digs. We'll see if they get the message. Word.
(3)angela h.
Seems like this place strikes a nerve with people- either great or terrible. Well, for me it is GREAT. I've gone twice- once on a very busy late Sunday morning, and another time on a not as busy early Friday evening. The food is unlike most other eating establishments. You're not gonna be eating burgers and fries here, and that's a-okay with me. Sandwiches are delicious with interesting combinations and ingredients. Basically, great food, great drinks, great beer, great service.
(5)Maria V.
I thought I had reviewed this place. . . oops! I enjoy a place where not only can i get a drink with friends, but we don't have to scream into each others ears in order to be heard. The Gulu Gulu offers such an environment. They offer a hefty selection of beers and wine, although thus far I've only tried the martinis (tasty!). They also have an assortment of non-alcoholic bevs and coffees. As far as food, I have only had some apps and a crepe, but they were delicious (mmm smoked salmon and arugula). There is an assortment of tables, cozy chairs and a couch in which to enjoy aforementioned treats. They feature local artwork on the walls and have game nights, open mic, bands and movies. All in all, this is one of my favorite discoveries on the North Shore.
(4)Ray T.
Amazing place!! Great beer selection and vegetarian and vegan options! The vegan chili is one of my favorites.
(5)Saleem N.
Always great. Everything is priced right ant good enough to try different items. Wish one of these were closer to me. Would go all the time.
(5)Francesca R.
I went to Gulu Gulu to see my little brother when he was headlining the Open Mic night--John Michael (Saves!) and I really liked it. First of all, it's a big, open cafe with a genuine European vibe. I like that the owners met in Prague at a now defunct cafe by the same name, and they have taken great pains to recreate a real European experience. There are a jumble of tables amidst clever artwork, all of which is conducive to sitting with your coffee and thinking deep thoughts or having great conversations over great beers. To that end, we went with the beer, and just like in Prague, there is a beer menu to serve all palates. My brother and his hipster friends all authoritatively ordered Rogue Dead Guy Ale, presumably just to order the most absurdly titled beer on the menu. Hubs, parents and I went for Krusovice on tap. I prefer Gambrinus and Staropramen Granat, but I'm always delighted when Czech beers are available and Krusovice is a solid entry. For Czech beer it's just OK, but in America it's a revelation. I did not eat when I was here but the website is very helpful on this point. They don't have a kitchen--just some fridges and a stove behind the bar, so the food is simple and meant as more of a complement to the cafe experience as opposed to the reason to go in and of itself. The only thing I would recommend is that they add the delectable honey cake (Medovnik) which is always available in Czech cafes. For one, it would be more authentic, for two, Medovnik is the goddamn bomb diggity of desserts. The service was great. There was a friendly gentlemen letting everyone know that it was bar service only that night. The website also goes to great pains to explain that there are only so many people working there who are bartender, server and cook alike, so not to get too fussed about how long your food is taking. Basically, it's like any cafe in Europe. Sit back and relax. I'm not sure about other nights but the Open Mic night was not too loud (conversations were still possible) and the quality of the music was actually pretty good. My brother is really good, but I was surprised (and relieved) to find the other acts all up to par.
(4)Katie G.
You want a cool place to hang out and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea? How about a funky place to eat lunch with a friend? Perhaps you are looking for a place to lounge while you do your work? If you can answer yes to any of the above, Gulu Gulu Cafe is the spot for you! This eclectic place is located right in downtown Salem. The walls are lined with work from mostly local artists. You can buy them right off the wall! The floor is filled with a mix of small tables, lounge chairs, and couches. Pick your comfort! The food is delicious. I have had their fruit cup with yogurt and it was lovely! I couldn't stop eating it! My friend ordered a crepe that she raved about. In previous trips, I have enjoyed both warm and iced coffee medleys, all of which were quite good. Their sandwiches are also very good. The one thing keeping a 5 star rating is the price. It does seem to be a bit much, but not too much so. Just too much money for what you get in order to receive a 5 star rating.
(4)Mike C.
I started going here when they first opened their doors when i lived in Salem. The first thing i noticed is how fresh everything was. Salad was crisp and green, the sandwiches were made with high quality ingredients and toasted perfectly (if that's how they came) and the beer menu was like none other I've ever seen (literally I've never heard of 95% of these beers). The menu was unique and not too long and included many things you don't see even typically at coffee shop-type places. If you get a chance you'll notice they have healthy offerings as well as comfort foods. Even after several years me and my girlfiend still treat ourselves to this place to enjoy a light brunch/lunch and a coffee. I will admit that during busy times it does take a long time to get your food but if you notice they do make everything fresh and their kitchen area is one of the smallest around, but they do make the best out of what they have which i can appreciate. The only reason it gets less than 5 stars from me is the occasional long wait and the fact that sometimes the music is WAAAAY too loud for me to enjoy a meal/coffee. i recommend this place to anyone passing through who wants a good quality meal at a fair price.
(4)E K.
I always love goint to this place when i'm in town! The atmosphere is great and very laid back. It really does remind me of a Prague cafe. Their drink selections is great, and there is a lot to choose from. The Czech beers and milky way martini's are my favorites. The food crepes are pretty good too.
(4)Todd L.
Nice staff, great regulars, amazing beers, good music, yummy foods. Awesome place to meet up and hang out. The music is hit or miss, but personally that makes it awesome. Give it a shot, I bet you'll be happy.
(5)Chris C.
GuluGUlu has come leaps and bounds since it first opened.... when there were bugs in the window.... hair in the food...awful service.... and excruciating waits for food, regardless of if you were the only person in there. But it has redeemed itself, becoming cleaner and, overall, a pleasant place to be. Two thumbs up for GuluGulu!!!!
(5)R B.
nothing amazing for vegeterians, just drinks that are allright bad service no good parking 'nuff said
(1)Bruno C.
Looking for a "cool" place to hang out in this witchy tourist town? Good people and good food. Our waitress was warm, welcoming and made us feel at home. Creative types would find the atmosphere pleasing. The service was great, but as with any coffee house style eatery, you're not going there for super-speedy service - relax. Check out their website if you're planning to be in the area since they have some cool events and entertainment.
(4)Scott F.
Like everything about it BUT service can be a little too relaxed.
(4)Mike H.
This is a fun place. The coffee drinks are fantastic, and the beer selection is superb. The food is quite good. Keep in mind that it's more cafe and less restaurant. The table service is terrible. It's not bad as in the staff is busy, it's bad as in the staff is apathetic. The flip side to this is that the bartenders are fantastic. They know their beers and can help you pick out something you'll like.
(3)Shari Z.
It isn't often that I fall in love with a place and end up going in often. I am way too distracted and non-committal when it comes to food and beverage options. I like to play the gastronomic field. Why settle down when there is so much choice? Gulu Gulu must be 'the one' then. In a short trip I ended up there often. Here's what I love about Gulu Gulu: Ambiance: sweet, calm, but not dead. There is always music playing, there are games you can play, and with two of four walls being mostly windows, you can watch the world go by as you consume your choice of beverage and write that novel you've been threatening. Staff: Super nice, friendly, however some of the staff are too young to drink and can't recommend from the beer selection (extensive!) Food: The menu offers some refreshingly comforting combinations of great bites, for example the macaroni and cheese with a small salad. The portions are perfect and realistic, not Cheesecake Factory over-generous. Drink: The beer, wine, and coffee menu on the large chalkboards behind the bar are impressive. For me, the Belgian beers ruled. The espresso is perfect, and they actually understand what a double espresso is, unlike the local Dunkin Donuts, who actually gave me four cups of espresso when I ordered two double espressos...um..? There is also a calendar of events and entertainment alongside the menus behind the bar so you won't have to sift through piles of fliers to figure out that day/night's entertainment. Try the cheese plate with a Framboise beer when you have just under an hour to kill before you need to hustle over to the commuter rail down the street. Heaven. I Gulu Gulu, and so must you.
(5)Christi F.
Gulu Gulu is my go-to lunch spot in Salem. Just about everything I've had, from the crepes to salads to cheese plate to soup, has been delicious. And the beer menu rocks! Make sure you try one of the many daily beer specials. I've only been here during the day, so I can't comment on the night scene or the live music (though I wish I could!) The daytime atmosphere works for all ages and it's relatively baby-friendly, though I wouldn't bring a toddler for fear of disrupting people working on their laptops.
(4)Brian L.
Meat. Cheese. Bread. On a plate. Best beer list this side of the Wild Horse on the North Shore. Why do people complain about the service? No rush. Where are you going. This is perfect and brings Salem up from being a dump to having ahint of non-Geek Halloween/Touristy culchah!
(5)Jacqui C.
We LOVE Gulu Gulu! Found it by accident and by luck one day as we wandered around downtown Salem. Friends had recommended the place next to it but we wanted to check it out anyway. We've now made it OUR place whenever we go to Salem. What do I love about Gulu Gulu...hmmm. The atmosphere and decor make me think of college students with piercings and late night cramming sessions before Finals. The food makes me think of a great European cafe. So far I've had any number of dishes (their savory crepes are wonderful) but I tend now to stick with the Chicken Cordon Bleu Crepe or the Bagel with Lox. They have great coffees, a very large selection of beers, and I have yet to find a seating area there that was not good. The servers are great, quick and unobtrusive...if you want to stay for hours and nurse a cappuchino you go right ahead...you want to grab a quick sandwich or have a full meal, you bet! Yummy food, funky atmosphere, great staff...what more can a gal ask for?
(5)Suzanne O.
This place is as close to a European bar as you will get on the North Shore, which is why I love it. 1- you can walk there from wherever you are parked in Salem. 2- the wireless is free and you can stay for hours upon hours in comfy seating so long as you have a tab. 3- it is very eclectic, but in a unique, modern, artistic kind of way. 4- the quality of the drinks, beers, and food is amazing. I particularly love the Three Philosophers beer (9.8% abv) and the Meat and Cheese Coalition (choose from three meats and cheeses served with fresh, toasted bread). The crepes are great, too. And the sandwiches. My favorite drinks were the white cloud and white raspberry lattes. If you have not been by the Gulu Gulu, you have to go. Screw Starbucks.
(5)Bill U.
I have added a star for this second review of Gulu Gulu in Salem because the menu now has some solid offerings. I indulged in "The Cheese and Meat Coalition", which for $8 gets a choice of any three items on a select list of fromage and charcuterie (my selection included Chimay Grand Cru and French Boursin, along with dried Chorizo). All this is served with ample toasted bread, and can be rounded out with fantastic bowl of fruit for an extra fee. The coffee and espresso has now been perfected, and my only conundrum is whether to go for an early morning café au lait or a late night beer. Add in the constant rotation of live entertainment and Gulu Gulu is now a centerpiece of Salem!
(4)Chris L.
Stopped in for an early breakfast on Halloween, before the (rest of the) tourists woke up. We each ordered a veggie & fried egg sandwich on ciabatta toast - cheesy and crunchy and not so huge. I had a few cups of great dark coffee, and since the crowds hadn't yet descended en masse, it was nice to have a chance to ramble around the cafe to see all the zombie-themed art on walls. Wish we had a place like this back at home...
(4)Chantal G.
I've been to Gulu Gulu a few times. They have a great selection of beer and different types of cheeses.I love that they have various events planned every night. Definitely a good place for a date or a hangout with friends.
(4)Geoff M.
I went there once, I haven't been back. Gulu Gulu isn't bad by any stretch, but I can't really say it's good either. Good: Extensive Beer list. Excellent, excellent Bruschetta. Istanbul grilled panini is tasty. Bad: Service was very slow and they weren't crowded at all, they all seemed kinda high. Wine list doesn't match the beer list. No sides available. Tiramisu wasn't up to par. I wasn't a huge fan of the ambiance. It almost seemed like they were trying too hard to be cool, but I guess that's a "to each his own" sort of thing. My former roommate seemed to like it, but I think that had a lot to do with one cute waitress and the fact that he is a complete and utter moron, and totally thinks he's that cool and new age, when he's really just a dolt. I would consider going back, if I was in the mood for what they have, but it's been quite a while, and I haven't found my way back. The place has potential.
(2)Ash B.
There are more detailed reviews here, so I will simply add my own details... For me, the pluses are free wi-fi, a large open interior, lots of windows, ok menu, and drinkable coffee (but nothing to write home about). On my second time there, I ordered a sandwich, and the server brought out two saying that they were running out of bread and took the opportunity to finish it off and said I could take the other sandwich if I wanted, which I did (since the first one was pretty good). On the downside, the service (except for that one nice exception) is pretty lousy. The last time, I sat down and could see them look at me but I was not acknowledged and it took them about 10 minutes before anyone even came over. So, do not go here if you are in a hurry. Gulu Gulu is a fine place to just hang out when there is time to kill, but the service certainly leaves something to be desired.
(3)C P.
Gulu Gulu is fun, the staff is great and the atmosphere is usually busy but chill. It can be intimidating walking in because it's seat yourself and usually hard to find a table, but look around and you'll see one mixed in, in my case it always seems to be the last one open. The food is good, it's a pretty light menu consisting mostly of snacks, crepes, wraps and paninis. The crepes are great. The drinks are great, they don't have a full liquor license so they have (an amazing selection of) beer, a kinda blah selection of wine, and creative martinis made out of flavored liquors. They just can't serve "real vodka/rum etc...". For vegetarians it's a decent selection, not the best and for vegans you might want to try some place else. As far as I can remember they have one vegan wrap and I'm sure a salad.
(3)Salvatore P.
We went to Gulu today for breakfast after having been there only for beers before. We decided never to eat there after seeing the state of the kitchen. It is a complete disaster. Dirty and badly organized with stuff everywhere. But today we said we would give it a shot anyway. So we sat far away from the kitchen. Out of sight out of mind! We're glad we ate there. We had the breakfast sandwiches which I easily could have had four of! And the banana peanut butter crepe was awesome. French press coffee was so rich and delicious. My advice to the owner's (if they ever read these) is to overhaul the kitchen and really clean it up. Service is a bit slow and chaotic it seems. But it has a laid back vibe so it wasn't really a problem for us. We dont mind slow service so much anyway since if we are out to eat we are rarely looking to rush in and out of the place. I am a recovering urban hipster so I like the atmosphere there and really like the eclectic music. Iggy Pop at breakfast is definitely my scene!
(3)Gerry L.
Sandwiches are good, salad was fresh. Very casual atmosphere, younger crowd. Seems to be a place where people hang out for a while.
(3)C P.
Sickening customer service and a pretentious atmosphere gets this place a 1 star and if it were possible to give 0 stars i would. I have never been treated so rudely by people who are in a service industry. The holier than thou hipster crowd love this place, pretentious beer selection and pretentious wait staff AVOID AT ALL COSTS. Unless you are a d-bag like everyone who goes to/works here.
(1)Elizabeth B.
What a fantastic place! So much character, I love the art for sale on the wall, the bohemian feel, the unique light menu, the drinks, and the servers are friendly but not corporate fake chain restaurant friendly. I had a glass of white wine and started with the homemade hummus and vegetable platter which is delicious. I then moved onto the portabello mushroom, sun-dried tomato, goat cheese, salad which was good, but next time I will have the dressing on the side. My friend had a beer and enjoyed a turkey pannini which he loved. Gulu Gulu offers live music Thursday thru Saturday nights and possibly more days too? Gulu Gulu is clean, friendly, a great place for lunch, light dinner, coffee or drinks. Kind of reminds me of the coffee shop in the tv show friends. I will be back to check out the live music scene. Great place to meet friends and people watch : )
(3)Chris H.
This is a great eclectic place to get some great food! If you're not into that eclectic feel of a place, then Gulu-Gulu is probably not for you. Their selection of food is not that extensive, but it is all fantastic. They have a large selection of beers, and I have heard from others that the music they occasionally have is great as well. I love this quirky little place, and I will definitely go back many more times!
(4)Kelly G.
GF and I went on a north-shore drive today and ended up lunching at Gulu-Gulu...mostly because of the giant Boston Terrier head painted on the window. The atmosphere is funky. The service is great-- Steven is a peach. The beer selection is broad (including some fun Czech beers). But the food is a little underwhelming. GF felt like her crepe was too soft (almost like it was steamed). I had a chicken caesar...the croutons were inedible...I couldn't chew them...but the salad itself was fine.
(3)Sharon L.
Love Gulu Gulu! Great beer selection, sandwiches are awesome and hte crepes are even better (especially the nutella one). Only downside is its slightly chaotic trying to find a seat when crowded. Other than that the food, atmosphere, and music always makes for a fun time!
(4)Caroline D.
This place is ok if you like noise. I used to live in Salem and my housemate and I would go there on occasion. We went for coffee and desert never really food. Coffee was decent and desert as well. On occasion we did try to go there for food but they either weren't serving, ran out of a bunch of stuff or it was too loud for us to stay. See, they often have local bands and stuff going on to really try and get a cafe vibe going on. Unfortunately they don't regulate the sound at all and it ends up being a total downer. This place does try really hard at being a European styled cafe with food, coffee and beer but the coffee could be better, the food isn't always the best if they have what you want at all and the noise level on evenings in wicked.
(3)Daisy M.
This place is a jewel in the neighborhood- a great place to hang with friends, play cards or a board game, or listen to some live music at night. We've tried most of their savory crepes, and breakfast crepes, too. Sandwiches, soups, salads cappuccino, all excellent! Portions are good, food is VERY FRESH, and prices are also good. The ambiance is hip and lively. Pros: outdoor patio dining, great coffee drinks, and CREPES ; ) Cons: noisy; service is a bit slow, so we just don't go here if we're rushed or stressed.
(4)Annie M.
This place is awesome. I'm here at least twice a month. The menu doesn't change very often, which is my only complaint, as I am lactose intolerant and can't really eat any of the paninis. The food is AMAZING though. Everything is great and the prices are very good. The service has always been wonderful when I'm here, and the same few waiters are usually working. They are very nice and accommodating to your needs. There's definitely a strong hipster vibe here, which provides for some great people watching when you're with friends. The weirdest thing happened the other night though- I went to dinner here on an open mic night Wednesday, and one of the guys "warming up" on stage was just playing the same note over and over again on a kazoo or some little train horn thing... if that makes sense... anyways it was really odd but we laughed about it! I think they cater, too! One thing that should be noted- Gulu Gulu does not sell Coke/Pepsi products, but they do have a "Curiosity Cola" that is local/organic instead, although it doesn't taste like coke at all.
(4)Mary D.
It was a bit crowded around lunch time - but it was worth the short wait for a table. The beer menu was wide and the food was good. I really liked the raspberry strong ale. The service was friendly and I loved the dog paintings.
(4)Jesse E.
This place is great! I haven't tried their food, but the Gulu Gulu cafe is just a really cool place. They serve coffee drinks and a wide array of alcoholic beverages.. All from a bar. They also have wait service and live music. This is a great place to see some local bands and an even better place for bands who want exposure. The atmosphere is great. I haven't tried their food, but I doubt that would change my opinion. This place is the perfect hangout.. Probably the coolest place to hang out in Salem.
(4)Ryan D.
The atmosphere in Gulu is impossible to beat. It is an excellent spot to hang out with a fantastic beer selection either at lunch or the evening. The place is relatively small, but you can usually grab a spot to sit. The combination of layout and size really add to the feeling in there. Fantastic breakfast crepes are a highlight for breakfast. And you can't beat the appetizer list [cheese and meat coalition for example, grape leaves, humus]. One of my favorite spots as a Salem resident to grab a spot and hang out with a good beer and excellent music...
(5)Jeremy H.
if you like hipsters, good food and lotts of people this place is for you
(3)Molly W.
Came here with a friend mid-day and had a wonderful time! We had a lot of catching up to do, and the waitress let us take our time ordering, and was very accommodating. They have a great beer selection, and a diverse menu of apps, salads and sammies. It has a coffee house feel, but I could see that it's a bar at night... intriguing! I'll have to come back and experience the nightlife here, but as a lunch spot it was just lovely. It was surprisingly busy for a lunch crowd - a true testament to how popular and successful it is! Obviously I am not alone when I say "Yay! I'm a fan."
(4)Jennifer S.
I am a fan. I come here a couple of times a month. I love checking out the latest art work and actually picked up a beautiful piece of art a few months back. This is really not the type of place you go to when you are in a rush and want a quick lunch. It has a laid back attitude and chill environment. Servers are not jumping to come wait on you, but get to you in a reasonable amount of time. If you are into micro brew beer you absolutely have to check this place out. They have one of the largest, most unique beer selections I have ever come across. I have been here at night and during the day. It is definitely a hipster bar, but a friendly one. Their cheese platter is good, the hummus is tasty and overall nice light food selection. Stuff your hamburger loving husband would probably not be into, but your vegetarian friend will swoon over. I come here on occasions for lunch when I work from home and need to clear my mind. they have excellent wi fi. overall I like it
(4)Alexander H.
This place was a nice little surprise. We ordered a turkey sandwich and a veggie wrap and both of us enjoyed the food thoroughly. The wait staff was efficient and very friendly, and seemed to be genuinely happy to be working there. The deserts -- I had a fruit smoothie and my friend had a freshly baked scone -- were absolutely delicious. A couple of days later, we found ourselves back in that neighborhood and made the mistake of trying the place next door, the Upper Crust. We were so disappointed that we immediately went back next door to the Gulu Gulu Cafe and again enjoyed their delicious deserts and friendly wait staff, which successfully took the Upper Crusty taste out of our mouths (both literally and figuratively). Definitely worth a return trip!
(4)Raithaa Z.
I'm in love. Seriously. Where else can you go for breakfast to get a plate of manchego cheese and chorizo (just one possible combination you can create when you order a delightfully named "Meat and Cheese Coalition"), even when your unadventurous dining companion just wants a bowl of Fruit Loops? Gulu Gulu Cafe is the best of all worlds when it comes to having a little bite or a cup of coffee by day, or a pint of beer or glass of wine by night. OR day. Whatever. I dig the funky atmosphere, the central location, and great, eclectic menu. And yes, a fantastic beer and wine selection, too. Living in Cambridge, I'd like to think I have a good amount of exposure to a wide spectrum of bars/restaurants, and Gulu Gulu ranks at the top. Worth the hike to the North Shore at least once every month or two. My only critique is the slight dinginess about the place. Honestly, I wish I could give Gulu Gulu a good overnight scrubdown. I realize that a place like this, which has both a day and a night life, can be tough to maintain spotlessly, but its mildly manky quality is the only thing preventing me from giving Gulu Gulu the full five stars. But whatever, if I'm in Salem and feeling a touch peckish, I can count on Gulu Gulu to give me something yummy to nosh on, and some cute puppies to look at.
(4)Lisa C.
This is a fun place..lots of live music and really yummy coffee drinks. If you're in the mood for a beer, the selection is AWESOME!! I haven't tried the food, so I can't comment on that.
(4)Cara Z.
If you're an art, music, or theatre student at the nearby Salem State University, you're pretty much expected to know of this place. It's hard to walk in and not know anyone in there for me. Amazing food selection, very quirky and unexpected. I absolutely love the Mac n' Cheese here, its very different and yet so, so delicious! One visit I went in, I asked for the remnants to be wrapped up... the waitress came out and told me that the kitchen had thrown it out... but she had them make me some fresh and hot! THAT is a great example of amazing customer service! The drink selection is also amazing, I have yet to try any of the alcoholic drinks here, but the list seems very impressive. Now, why I gave it four stars... the simple fact is, it can get EXTREMELY crowded in here. While I love it, if the place is packed, I cannot go in, and it always breaks my heart. Keep it up Gulu, you've won me over!
(4)Jon H.
This is one of those places you give three tries because you keep telling yourself it has to work, and you really want to support it. I could probably get over the mediocre service, because it is pretty mediocre. But for a place that brands itself as a unique, independent cafe, their food manages to be more bland than Panera. The salads taste like someone bought a Doll mixed green bag from Crosby's and put a few drops of dressing on it. And the sandwiches feel, well, inept. It's a funny coincidence that this place and Upper Crust are both next to each other. They both seem to cater to people who go out to eat because they identify with the theme of the restaurant rather than, you know, the actual food. As for an alternative, if you don't mind the drive check out the Daily Harvest Cafe in Danvers if you're looking for a good sandwich or salad.
(2)Timothy A.
Great evening spot with unique beers you've never tasted. We heard the Squeezebox Stompers, one of the best North Shore bands. Night club with breakfast.
(4)Jen M.
Gulu is one of my favorite places in Salem. Now that I'm often towing along a baby when I'm out, it's retained favorite status by being kid-friendly (really all I need for that is 1) being cool with the kids being there, and 2) a decent sized bathroom that's clean enough for me to change a diaper and nurse a baby). The beer selection is excellent, and while I've been not drinking I've really enjoyed their smoothies and their ridiculously good hot cocoa. The sandwiches and salads are fantastic (try the Barcelona!).
(5)Missus F.
smores crepe. trust me. awesome awesome crepes and salads. the actual crepe has a good, not bland flavor. gulu is great for weeknight meet ups with pals to catch up. it's a really cool atmosphere. check it.
(4)Wyatt B.
Best coffee I have in a long time. Seating was a little interesting walking in, but service was great and the coffee! Worth the trip.
(5)chris r.
My fiance and I visited Gulu on a recent October Saturday afternoon. The restaurant was relatively busy (very few empty tables by about 1PM) but we found a table without a problem. We were prompty approached by the waitress and our drink orders taken. They have a wide variety of beers and a decently sized wine list, along with a specialty range of sodas and diet coke. I went for the Cisco Whale's Tale Pale Ale and the future hubby got their version of coke (which tasted like any generic cola). After surveying the menu we both chose the meat and cheese plate, which allows you to choose 3 items from the large cheese menu and limited cured meat menu. Your selections are served with plenty of hot, toasted bread and a small bed of greens. Overall, this was plenty of food for me, but my fiance was ready for a sandwich about 3 hours later. I was happy with our lunch and the very reasonable price. I will note, however, that what appears to be a revolving art collection featured modern paintings of naked women, which may provide an endless source of entertainment should you decide to bring your 13 y.o. sons along. Most of the children in the restaurant were the infants of 30-something parents.
(4)Kat H.
This place saved me on the day I had jury duty. We got a long break and were told to go explore, eat, drink & be merry before facing the guillotine of being called...so I wandered a bit, poked my head in here and there, and finally ended up at Gulu Gulu. I was the only person in there, so after perusing their lengthy menu (though rather scant on breakfast...they have bagels, muffins and crepes) got a white chocolate latte and toasted bagel. The wait staff (two gals) were awesome--chatty, friendly, and I wouldn't have minded staying there all day. They've got the inside set up very nicely...a couch or two, some big comfy chairs, coffee tables and regular tables of all sizes and shapes...a mix-matched art-house wonder. The local art on the way actually tempted me to buy some too, a very rare occurrence, I'm sorry to say. And yes, the plain bagel was great, the latte just right with TONS of foam. Am certainly planning to go back for a panini or light dinner sometime. They do have wi-fi, but didn't notice if paying is necessary...if I remember right, it's free with purchase, but don't quote me on that. And that was exactly what I needed on the hell-day of jury duty; so if any of you get summoned to the Salem Court House, I highly recommend you spend some time here.
(4)Meghan M.
How can I even describe Gulu Gulu Cafe in words? Some of the words would be synonyms with incredible. At first I was completely in love with their gigantic chalkboard menu, and the entire layout of the place. The place has this very laid back, hip vibe. The atmosphere was great. Now, for the wrap. Oh-- that beloved wrap. My Hearty Vegetarian wrap, was phenomenal. I was a bit skeptical when ordering it at first. But, it was out of this world good. When I had finished eating this glorious wrap, the very nice waitress came over and gave us our check. At the bottom of our total was: "Keep Smiling! May The Force Be With You!".
(5)Shawn B.
TBGT is a fav for lunch.
(4)Thomas J.
I've been here a few times with friends, mainly for drinks. They have an interesting drink selection that includes absinthe, their prices are what you'd expect and seating is pretty good. They're located right in the center of town, not hard to miss, and have a big staff. Nothing about this place is amazing or great though, just eh. You can come and go and never be left with a good or bad impression. If you find yourself in Salem and want a quick lunch or drink, go for it, but I'd never plan to go here.
(3)DeeJay H.
This place is the cutest coffee shop under the sun. Great decor, live music, friendly staff and the tastiest sandwiches money can buy. I just enjoyed one of their lovely wraps- roast beef and boisin- served with a fresh salad and chips...it was a lot of bang for a small buck (and in this economy...blah blah blah). They had all sorts of yummy beverages/italian sodas/etc. Can't wait to try it again!
(4)E S.
I'm gonna go ahead and change my mind about this place. I've ended up back there a few times and while I still can't rave about the food, the service has improved and I appreciate what they add to downtown Salem. It is a very comfortable place to see some live music and there's always some good local art on the walls.
(4)John P.
Great place to eat, have a great cup of coffee and utilize the free Internet access.
(5)Erin W.
Food's reasonably good. Great beer list! The service tends to be a little slow, so if you're trying to get in and out, then it might not be a great fit. But, if you're looking for a middle-of-the-day place to hang with your laptop.... there's no better place in Salem. Nice to sit outside in sunny weather. (The Apple and Brie Crepe is yummy.)
(4)frank p.
ok albeit all i had was a smoothie there this is definetely worth coming back for.. after all, its a cafe and i want a good drink got the banana smoothie.. not only is it dairy free (which is a plus cuz im lactose intolerant) it was thick, creamy and soooo rich.. mmmmmm im definetely going back again, even if its just for the drinks. i was impressed!
(4)Fiona T.
Lunch on a weekday afternoon -- the place was pretty empty as we arrived after the lunch peak period. I had the turkey panino and my friend had the portobello spinach crepe, both were yummy, especially my sandwich. The waitress was really forthcoming with recommendations. We sat on the patio, and it was really nice.
(5)Lucien D.
An independent coffee bar in Salem. It has a little bit of everything including a nice selection of drinks. If you go in the daytime it's a nice coffee cafe if you go at night it gets to be more of a bar-like atmosphere. Great place to people watch.
(4)Amber L.
I love the laid back atmosphere of Gulu-Gulu and the food. The wait time, however, is not so nice. It can take forever to get your food, check, or even for the waitstaff to initially come to your table! I've come here at all different hours and during varying times of business; the long wait never seems to change. On the plus side I enjoy their drink selection -- alcoholic and non-alcoholic and their cheese plate is amazing and VERY filling. The minus two stars really is only because of the wait so if you do not mind a long wait then you will absolutely love this place.
(3)Alyssa N.
Trekked up to Salem to see a friend of mine DJ here. Much bigger than the Lynn cafe. Staff was a little spacey. One staffer told me the kitchen was closed not long after another staffer served J the dessert crepes he'd ordered. In the end (and after some confusion), I got my traditional Czech crepes, which delighted me very much. These light crepes with a sweet/tart plum filling are a wonderful treat. Good wine/beer list, including some sort of Belgian Kriek that I really like. And have I mentioned the fantastic chocolate chip cookies? Stays open late (especially for Salem?), which is always a good thing, since it's way more chill than a (traditional) bar.
(3)Ashley L.
Just moved to Salem and Gula Gula is already one of my favorite places. Although I should preface this with... I've only seated myself at the bar so I can't rate the table service. I've been to get work done on my laptop and to have some drinks with friends. The beer is good (although it would be nice to see some lower priced drafts and bottles on the menu), the selection is good and I ordered a sandwich and thought it was pretty awesome. For $7.50 I got a delicious grilled panini (the Istanbul), chips and some greens. Not too shabby considering the sandwich shop down the street charges more than that for just the sandwich. LOVE the atmosphere. Friday night wasn't super packed and the people watching is great. You'll find all types of people here and the wait staff seems to know a lot of them and are super friendly. The live music wasn't spectacular but I've only heard it once so I'm not sure that i can really judge. All in all, decent food prices, very laid back and chill atmosphere and some incredible people watching. Would definitely recommend checking this place out.
(4)Allison C.
Highly recommend for breakfast and lunch. Their loose leaf tea is divine as are the breakfast sandwiches, muffins, and wraps. Evening entertainment varies. You must wait in line and order your food at the bar, this place fills up quickly, so you may have a long wait. Sometimes entertainment on open mike night is so bad it's painful.
(4)Walleyecrue W.
Good brew selection- tea, coffee or beer. The ham crepe is a tasty treat after a few hours @ PEM.
(4)Sarah C.
i have only been here once, however was blown away by one sandwich, that i have to return. i can't recall the name of the sandwich, but it had turkey, pesto, and a lot more garlic. i am a huge fan of garlic. it came with a side of chips, and they have a nice beer selection. i love how they have cereal you can order. the staff seems very friendly, and they play good music here. it seems like a great place to go with friends and have a nice, laid back time. they have some doors outside too which is nice for the spring or fall.
(4)Jared R.
Interesting menu choices. Food was ok. Lots of beer choices... just be sure to keep an eye on your server. I saw her once for my order and once for my check... I would have liked a few more glasses of water considering the extremely salty food choices I made. The service really knocks 2 stars off my review. Will try again as I always try to look for the best.
(2)Michael W.
This has to be a short review , but... Cheese Platter can feed 2, great beer selection, SOUPS! STEWS! Friendly atmosphere. Play Bananagrams on Sunday, Last Sunday of the month DRAG KING AND QUEEN show. Great place.
(4)George A.
This place is my shiz-nit. If you want a nice relaxing night with coffee's, imported beers and wines you should skip Boston and come here.
(5)Abraham D.
Let me preface this by saying that I have been here no less than 7 times, and my first few experiences were more in the line of 4 stars. On my last three trips the experience was not nearly as favorable. Instead of posting my gripe publicly, I sent an email to Gulu Gulu that I perceived to be constructive and well thought out. It has been about a month and they did not acknowledge my email, which leads me to believe that they have no interest in improving or acknowledging their short comings. The food here is good. Nothing amazing, but certainly tastes good and there are enough options to keep lunch interesting or to grab an appetizer before dinner. The service has always been great. It is a laid back cafe and I do not expect super quick formal service. Everyone that has waited on me has been friendly and eager to assist when something is amiss. Since I go here for the beer, I have no choice but give 2 stars. Sure they have a nice selection but the quality of their taps is questionable. On three separate occasions I was served poor quality draft beer. The first time the beer was flat, and tasted a bit old. It may have been that they had not run the tap for that particular beer but either way it was a let down. The second time they served me a beer chock full of white chunks. I assume this was related to a keg conditioned ale but either way it way it was at an unacceptable level. The third time they served me a beer that was not only warm but it lacked any carbonation whatsoever. It was tepid and totally undrinkable. Do they clean the lines, do they run the lines before the shift, are they keeping old beer on lines? It is hard to say, but my guess is that in an effort to offer some different beers they have forgotten that regardless of having a nice name like Unearthly, if it is not taken care of and served properly it makes a great beer become undrinkable. Thank you to the Owner for a very nice response! I will return soon and hope to improve my rating upon my next visit.
(2)Randie F.
The first time I went here I was really impressed, but I think I just must have been really hungry because I never felt that way again. Overall, the food's ok, but not great. One time my panini was so overtoasted, the bread was hard as a rock. Another time they messed up my crepe order. Maybe if I was a drinker I'd like this place more, but...I think it's also pretty sucky that they closed their Lynn location as soon as the Salem one started to take off. Salem has enough trendy, restaurants. It was really something special for Lynn.
(3)Freddie C.
pretty cool place. kind of messy and unorganized. no hostess or bus staff it appeared, even though it was a busy friday afternoon on halloween weekend.. a couple dirty tables were available to sit at but we didnt want to be those people so we sat at the bar. we an app called the " utopenec" that was cold sausages (links) cut in half just sitting in some pickle juice with peperocini's with toast points on the side...really lame! then we each had a panini and split them. the " palermo " which was some italian meats and provolone and the " die berliner" which was black forest ham sauerkraut, red onion and dijon. both paninis were excellent...but everything else was very mediocre.. also the menus were dirty, they were out of the first 3 beers we requested and service was nice but very very slow...would probably give gulu gulu cafe another try
(3)Shelby M.
The absolute worst service this side of the Mississippi. I've been here a bunch of times - great beer selection and food, but seriously, the WORST service ever. You'll be seated, wait 15 minutes for a bitchy waitress to leave you with a menu, then wait another 20 minutes for her to take your order. Meanwhile, she'll plop herself at the bar and chat with friends while you watch your food sit on the counter and get cold. Go for the atmosphere and beer selection, but if you get a table, get up and take a walk to the bar...don't even bother waiting for someone to take your order.
(2)Ellen M.
I've been to Gulu-Gulu a couple of times and thought it fun, but had a strange experience there this week. I went into Gulu to get a cup of coffee and was looking at the menu and noticed that the "coffee of the day" was a dark roast coffee. I don't like dark roast coffee and asked if they had mocha coffee or another light roast available. The waitress said they didn't have any other coffee but the dark roast. I told her that I didn't like dark roast coffee and she said I should try it, I again told her I had that particular coffee and didn't like it. She kind of started to have attitude, didn't ask me if I wanted anything else instead.... but stood there. I decided to leave, and I won't be back. Its rather silly to have an establishment that is supposed to be a cafe and only offers one type of coffee, but the larger issue to me was the waitress who was really inept at her job.
(1)ChianWen T.
I was at Gulu2 Cafe from 9am to 5pm for most of December '07. I worked on my resume there. I had phone interviews there. I tried to sell my soul to the corporate world there. I received news of a job offer there. I even punched a friend who had traveled hundreds and hundreds of miles through one of the worst storms just to see me there. Well, I was too excited over the prospect of being employed! All that was true. I thank Gulu2 for allowing me to abuse their wifi. I thank them for their yummy panini sandwiches and warm tea. I thank them for providing a relaxing space for my job-search. There is live music or one thing or another there most evenings. It's a funky atmosphere (by that I don't mean that it's stinky in anyway). Good place for a drink and people-watch (lots of interesting characters).
(4)eliza b.
Updated! Like Frank B, I really wanted to love this place. I liked the coffeehouse+ concept as a native NY'r, MA doesn't have enough of them. My first visit and thoughts --the menu was varied, salad was fresh, sandwiches were unique and delish, good prices, nice to have a place to go to with WiFi access. Each night they have something going on, a very decent place to meet friends. Only issue was service, slow to take order, slow to bring the food, didn't ask if I wanted anything else...or the check! Even when I asked the server about dessert, she gave me the menu and never came back to take the order. Thank you from saving me from the calories ;). I am a fan and would recommend to others and will be back. If you go as group (10+) call ahead and see if they can accommodate. Shout out to Steve for reaching out about the service, kudos to you & an extra STAR!
(4)Bridget D.
This place is quality, as my dear friend Scotty would say. They have tasty coffee concoctions like the russel stover with coconut and chocolate syrups. It is like drinking a warm candy bar. My little sister enjoys the local brews, like the Wachusett Blueberry. You can partake in the yummy appetizers like the three cheese plate with marinated brie or the interesting crepes with blue cheese, walnuts, and apples. I want the painting on the wall that looks like a pack of topps garbage pail kids trading cards! SWEET! But, by far one of the best aspects of the Gulu Gulu in Salem is the local live music. I recently saw Radio Scotvoid and the Curios Allstars. A funky collective of talented musicians led by an amazingly talented DJ and his magical computer. They had a solid jam that flowed so well. I made a new friend in Walnut Da Lyrical Genie who performed some sweet ryhymes. If you happen to be in the Salem area, check them out on May 2. There is also a big screen that shows films in the background behind the bands. One time there was a very strange birthing video. I saw placenta and I was mildly scarred. The Gulu has a good vibe, yummy food and beverages, and is a chill place to hang out with your companions and hear unique music.
(5)Topher D.
Haven't eaten there, so can't comment on that - but what a wide array of beers/drinks, and godo service - only complaint is it gets super loud when bands are on, but I guess thats the point of bands playing isn't it? Definitely a great place to finish the night at
(4)Nick D.
My first experience with this place was using it for internet when I first moved to Salem because Comcast sucks at life. It's right down the street from me so I'm there at least once a week. Their specialty coffees are awesome and priced reasonably and the ever-changing art on the walls keeps my little mind amused. The indy-kid-tattoo-crazy staff is always helpful and in a good mood from my experience. The music on the weekends is a good change but they could benefit from turning the speakers down from "eardrum rupture" to something that would allow you to have a conversation with the person next to you without screaming. You can't leave this place without trying the crepes....mmm...crepes.....
(4)Matthias J.
My wife and I went to the Peabody Essex Museum on Sunday. Since PEM opens at 10:00 am, we decided to have breakfast at Gulu-Gulu first. When we got there at 9:30 am, there was parking on the street right in front of the restaurant and plenty of available tables. By the time we returned from PEM ~11:30, things were much busier. The food was excellent, moderately priced and the place has a nice atmosphere. My wife ordered a cappuccino and a sandwich from the lunch menu and I had a breakfast sandwich on a fresh baked croissant and a Nutella-banana crepe. The crepe was huge and I almost regretted having ordered both items (only until I tasted them). It was a bit too early for beer, but there were a few on the blackboard that made me wish it was later in the day. The great thing is, you can leave the car there and walk less than 10 minutes through the pedestrian zone to the museum. What a find! We'll certainly be back.
(5)Danielle B.
Nice relaxed atmosphere, had a Eden Crepe which had almonds, honey and apples and it was tasty and came pretty quick. I would have given them 5 stars but i ordered a cappucino & got a latte, really though, who cares, its a nice addition to downtown Salem. They have a great beer selection and wine list which i'd like to come back for somet night soon.
(4)lee p.
Gulu Gulu is my favorite place for lunch on the North Shore. Especially when it's warm out and you can sit outside and have an iced latte! The service is a bit slow, but it's a great place to people watch the tourists, esp. around that stupid Elizabeth Montgomery statue. I love their bagels and lox plate, their hummus is good, and they make a dangerously good iced latte.
(4)Anna B.
If I could give 10 stars I would. Amazing food, excellent location, and perfect service. I highly recommend their meat and cheese plate - the marinated brie is delectable. Also, the coffee selection is top notch. Sarah Jean was a friendly and attentive server. Definitely coming back.
(5)Joanne H.
Just returned home from a visit to Salem. Gulu gulu is wonderful. We were traveling for the first time with our 8 month old puppy. That Meant at we are able to eat in their outdoor dining area. We had lunch there and the food was fresh and great. They made us and our pup feel welcome!
(5)Hungry C.
We had some wine and hummus. Meh. Not really our kind of scene. We did buy a Bataclan painting though, and that was nice.
(2)Sara S.
I have very mixed feelings about this place. I absolutely love the fun atmosphere, and the food and drinks are great. However, the service is pretty bad, and that's coming from someone who's not high-maintenance about restaurant service. We went in on a Saturday night. There appeared to be 2 waitresses on. For the entire place. My boyfriend went up to one of them to ask about a table, and was told under no uncertain terms that it was "seat yourself". We stood for about 5-10 minutes, then grabbed the first available table. 20 minutes later, we were still staring at the dirty glasses left by the table's previous occupants. No menus, no "hello", no "sorry, we're understaffed and will be with you soon." We finally left. It was a huge disappointment, and at the end of it, we were still hungry and thirsty. And grumpy.
(2)Ben L.
I went there without much for expectations but I had heard good things about their other location. Inside it is quite nice with some good local art up on the walls. Oddly it seemed like they got a bit of light inside despite the overcast sky outside and in a way it detracted from my cafe mentality of the place. Their menu was rather eclectic and tough they seemed to have a couple of decent options I would have liked to see a bit more. Part of it may just be my aversion to mustard and pressed sandwiches. I ended up getting a Munich. It fit the bill for the moment but was partially ruined because they got a bit aggressive with the vinaigrette for the side salad so it decided to divide and conquer, part of the bread on my sandwich. They did gain back a bit of redemption by having a good solid cup of coffee and though neither service nor pricing were spectacular bothy somehow seemed to fit the bill.
(4)Chelsea B.
This place is a blast and a half. I love posting about pubs, so I guess this would count, but it's also so much more! DELICIOUS menu of interesting Czech-inspired food (but also very American-friendly options). Savory crepes are just to die for. The music is interesting (if not always good; sorry, but open-mic is all about variety...), the atmosphere upbeat, funky; the interior fantastically quirky and fun. It just makes you feel good to be here on a Sunday morning or for an early dinner. My one caveat is that service here can be incredibly slow, and inexplicably so. I've sat here on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon with not many other diners and walked out again because no one came to wait on me. Weird.
(4)Katie P.
Whatever Cola they serve is really good. It comes in a bottle and they give you ice. Really yummy stuff. Off to a good start. I've been here several times for lunch. I live and die for plates of meat and cheese. They have it. I went today with my friend Gabbie. I had a feeling she'd love it. We got a cheese and meat plate that was yummy. We Spanish Themed it and got Chorizo, Manchengo Cheese and Goat chesee, to spread on the bread. The goat cheese used was amazing. YUM! Then we had crepes. Mine was Chicken Cordon Bleu. Not only did it have ham, the added addition of bacon surprised me. How did the crepe maker KNOW i LOVED bacon???? Bacon was not a listed ingredient. YUM!!!!! It needed a slight bit more of the mustard and cheese tho, but I still ate every last bite. Gab-arific had a portabello, spinach and feta crepe that she devoured. It looked and smelled really good. My only slight complaint is that my creme Brulee latte coulda had more syrup in it, it needed more sweet flavor. Maybe cuz it was iced, and before I've had it and it was hot. Oh well, next time I'll add sugah. The atmosphere is funky and fun, it's a cool afternoon for lunch with a friend. There's always interesting people around to observe. I like that in a place.
(4)T R.
love it! it is the perfect place to go. food is wonderful. best atmosphere. the only complaint i have is that since they have events nightly at 8, you really need to finish dinner by then if you want to be able to talk without loud music in the background. So if it is anytime past 7:30 we do not go to eat dinner there, because we know we will have to rush to avoid having our conversation drowned out. I wish they started their events at 8:30 or 9, just to give some extra time to talk.
(5)Tracey N.
Very cool space, with well-chosen Belgian beers and wifi all in a convenient location. Stopped in with a friend and our kids for tea/coffee & snacks. The brownie was good but small, the cookie was big but stale, and all the choclate sauce drizzled on top just made everything messy. Luckily they were showing old Spiderman cartoons (the kind I watched as a kid!) which helped distract the kiddos because they brought out the food and took ages to bring out drinks. The shift change was blamed, but it overall seems like a loungey, hang-out-all-day so why rush kind of spot. Maybe it's not the best to bring a pair of preschoolers riding high on sugar, but otherwise kids are alright here. I'd definitely give it another try.
(3)Sarah L.
I have been to this restaurant a few times and really enjoyed it. The atmosphere and food are very unique and interesting. I tried the cheese & meat coalition and loved it. I would definitely recommend this place to my friends!
(4)Fortuna F.
great vibe here and good eats and an amazing beer selection. food recs: chocolate banana crepes banana bread
(5)Alicia D.
Hooray, now open in Salem. See my Lynn review.
(4)Christine R.
While looking for a place in Salem with vegetarian options, I stumbled on this place. The menu looked good so my bf and I checked it out recently. I had the hearty vegetarian wrap. I was very pleased with the sandwich and my bf liked his as well. Our complaint was the service though. There was one waitress on a busy Saturday. She didn't take our special requests in and took forever to serve us. However the good food made up for it.
(4)PuppyCat K.
Great place. Friendly service, wifi. I had the cheese plate - very yummy. Good place to sit after wandering around the town.
(4)T. M.
I love Gulu Gulu. Great atmosphere, great beer, great crepes. They also have some very delicious bagels with the fluffiest of cream cheese at breakfast time! This is the sort of place you go to because you want to read a book, look at art, or maybe see some live music (or even a great Modern Millie fashion show!). This is NOT the sort of place you go to if you are in a rush. So if you are going to complain about service you really need to relax your sphincter. The staff here are a lovely group of people who are always friendly. True it is not the speediest service ever, but they don't deserve to get slammed about it since they are not working at McDonald's. The staff makes me feel relaxed, unhurried, and welcome. I also like walking in the door and running into a staff member who not only remembers me, but also remembers what I like to order. THAT to me is service. Hooray to Gulu bringing a bit of style and yumminess to Salem!
(5)Erik P.
Another place i wish i liked more. I love the beer. I love sitting outside and having a beer off said beer list. I just wish the food wasn't so mediocre. Nothing is awful but most of it is not really worth eating. The most i will get is a cheese and meat platter and even that leaves something to be desired. How about a homemade terrine? How about some stinky washed rind cheeses? None of the selections they have are real bad but i just can't get excited about habenero cheddar and genoa salami! I've read some complaints about the service here but I've never had any trouble, most likely because i tend to stop by at extreme off hours when there is hardly anyone there. The employees have always been prompt and friendly though. Not a bad place to stop for a quick bite and a nice beer(or absinthe!).
(3)Carissa H.
Food was pretty good, and menu was interesting, but the service was aweful. They ran out of the two things I wanted to order, so when I placed my new order, they messed it up and forgot one of the things that I ordered. It's too bad, because the menu has a lot of potential. But I won't go back because the service was horrible.
(2)Jaime F.
I love this place - when I walk in it feels like home. It's got a very laid back artsy feeling. I love the huge windows that look out onto Essex street and the comfy chairs and couches. The food is great - I've never had a bad meal and I love that I can start with coffee and end with beer all in the same place. I am not a hipster or a punk rocker, I do not have any tattoos nor am I an artist - but I feel completely at home at the Gulu Gulu. I'm not sure why people feel that it is too trendy for them - it is what it is. The place attracts a lot of artist types and young people, but that is fine, I've never felt that I wasn't welcomed there, in fact, conversely, I always feel that the wait staff and customers are friendly.
(5)K W.
I have been to this cafe twice, first coffee to go and it was fine. I liked the coolness of the place so I visited for the second time with my husband and son.... It was not too busy but when we got our latte, both of our cups were sitting in a good amount of coffee in a saucer, when I lifted the cup it dripped all over my top.... it was not hot enough, like someone did not want to spend much time steam the milk.... I ordered slice of cake which took about 20 minutes to arrive. My coffee got really cold by the time I got it. My husband ordered crape which never came, after 30 minutes of waiting, my son's got forgotten. When we got so tired of waiting, the man behind the counter said "ah, I was just going to work on it" after 30 minutes?? They really did not want to take the charge for the crape off the bill either. Took two complaints. We are not such a hard people to please, but don't want to pay for food we never got and lousy service. We drove over an hour to get there, because it was such a neat place, we will not go back again, maybe we are not "hip" enough people to deserve a decent service. They never apologize either.... :( We left being a bit angry. By the way, this was in Salem store.
(1)amy f.
After a great day hanging around Rockport, my boyfriend and I swung through Salem for lunch. Serendipitously, we parked right next to the Gulu Gulu and decided to check it out. The space is open and inviting with cool high ceilings, funky art and comfy couches. We opted to sit at the bar and had the pleasure of chatting with the co-owners of this great spot--really great people, and amazing service. They have an eclectic beer selection (Golden Monkey--Mmmm!), and a sandwich menu that was hard to choose from. Our lunch was delicious, and we couldn't help but share a giant cookie that the owner insisted on warming up for us for dessert. My only wish is that they'd open a location in Boston!
(5)Jennifer R.
Great food & drinks, haven't been let down yet! However it can get a bit noisy on live music nights! friendly staff and pretty cool artwork on the walls.....leading a bit towards the hipster scene so please do pull back a little!
(4)Jennifer H.
My favorite place to go in Salem! Gulu Gulu (german for glug glug) has a great atmosphere, and great art on the walls. The best panini in town, I suggest the"Stockholm". Paired with a friendly wait staff, and an impressive beer list, this is the place to go!
(5)Nick D.
If you love beer, different beer, good beer then you probably should check this place out. With few execptions, I find that bars in the beverly/salem area suck. They all serve mostly poor quality beer at high prices, the atmosphere is lame (unless you dig cover charges, pop music and axe body spray) and food is only worth in if you are in the bag. Gulu is a different place, anything goes. The owners are almost always there (they live upstairs) and they are great for conversation. If you need advice on what to order, just ask, the wait staff and owners are glad to offer. As for the menu, they just redid it and I havent eaten there yet. As for drink, the only big name beers are Sierra Nevada and Dogfish Head (both are excelent). They have had the Dogfish Head on tap as well. all the other beers are obscure. Most are small craft brewers in the US and the rest are imports from the EU. As for the price, any thing on draft is comprible to domestic brew (5-7 dollars), bottled being 5-15 dollars. The higher priced beers are normally imports or large bottles. Coffee is great here for the late night boost.
(4)Jackie T.
I dropped by the cafe since I had a few hours to wait before meeting up with friends. I didn't expect the food to be so delicious! Great wine list too. A DJ came in during the meal and started jamming. The music was not obtrusive. If I lived in Salem I'd make this place a regular hang out. A hidden gem!
(4)Michael M.
Service is sometimes spotty, but everyone is friendly and aims to please. The beer selection is really great. It's the place to go for lunch with friends in downtown or to rest and relax after a day of ghost hunting in Salem. I really like that for the panini you can mix and match ingredients and combos from the other sandwiches and make your own thing.
(4)Jacqueline D.
Every time I go to Gulu-Gulu, I wonder why I keep coming back. The service is not good. Like, at all. I wanted lunch on their patio during the week, and there is a sign outside saying to see a server inside for seating, but then inside, there is no one to greet you, and a sign stating that you should seat yourself. So, confusion. I ended up seating myself outside and had to wait at least 10 minutes before someone came over to offer me a menu. Meanwhile, another waitress had walked by me mulitple times without even saying she'd send my server over. Once my server came, things moved more quickly...this time. I've been in 5 or 6 times since the place opened and have always had a problem with service on some level. It is certainly not a place to go for a in-and-out eating experience. I wasn't crunched for time this week, but still not pleased with the lack of expedient service; while there, I also heard another customer complain about the slow service. That being said, the food is good. I had Roast Beef and Boursin wrap, which was actually quite stellar, and I've also had some of their crepes. Now, throw a crepe in front of me, and I'm a happy little girl, so maybe my judgement is off, but the Apple and Brie crepe is Meg-Ryan-in-a-restaurant worthy, if you will. All the food is a tad on the expensive side, too. Over all, I'll probably go back to Gulu-Gulu, and wonder why I do, until I get my food. I'll just leave plenty of time to have a drawn out dining experience.
(3)Anne D.
The beer menu is huge and varied... high quality stuff and I'd give the selection 5 stars. The food is pretty good as well. We've tried several different things off the menu and have been pleased with the price and the quality of all of it. What keeps it from getting more stars is that it is SO loud on a weekend night. Obviously, bars are supposed to be loud on a weekend but you literally can't carry on a conversation, even at the top of your lungs. And live music... meh. Sometimes bands are good, sometimes there's a reason they're playing a place that doesn't charge you to listen.
(3)F S.
Funky place, creative atmosphere. "Ok" food. I had a crepe with turkey and feta. It was dry inside; one side of the crepe was filled with meat and the other-- with some feta and olives, so after eating just plain meet I ended with cheese... My friends ordered sweet crepes and liked them better. Coffee is good, but the tea selection could be richer. The service is just ...'different', and I don't mean it in a good way. I am not sure if they care more about themselves or the customers. Our case was pretty comic. We had a waiter constantly going around our table and openly showing her attractiveness to our husbands. At first it was funny, but after a good half an hour it started to be really annoying for the girls and uncomfortable for men. The ideology of the place, including the artwork on the walls, interior design, free Internet, the music they play is cute and one might find it enough to go back.
(2)Jen K.
I dont know, I just love this place! It has nice, high celings and is on a cute, centrally located corner in Salem and you can gaze out the windows at the beautifully lit trees and historic buildings/streets. Its very comfortable in here. There are mismatched couches, chairs, etc. Alot of people on laptops. They have board games you can play. Food is eceltic (sp?). Mostly salads and sandwiches but you can also get things like crepes, hummus and beer and cheese pairings. They have open mic nights, movie nights, lots of local talent. Great place to kick back with your friends, very laid back. Of course the star of the place and my favorite thing about it is the BEER! They have enormous chalkboards of all the beers and menus with descriptions of them. They are constantly changing the beers. I have found so many great, obscure beers this way. I am a beer snob so I really appreciate their variety. Just a nice place and Im glad they're in Salem
(4)Stephanie D.
I first fell in love with Ommegang beer here. I love this place. Paninis are delicious, waitstaff is attentive and friendly but never annoying. Other people in the place are interesting and easy to talk to. I would feel very comfortable hanging out here by myself. I haven't been to the live music or here for dinner, but particularly enjoy Gulu during off-hours, like at 4 o'clock in the afternoon. (I shouldn't even be saying that for fear it would get more crowded at that time.) Highly recommend and am sorry the Lynn location closed.
(5)Khunravin H.
Good place to go for lunch. Right in the center of Downtown Salem, right behind "Sabrina, the Witch" statue. For the few times that I've been there, the food, and service has been good. I've actually never been inside the business; rather be outside when weather permits. But yeah when in Salem MA, do try breakfast or lunch here.
(4)Joe B.
UPDATE: Still a fan. I still love the food here and the beer selection is just awesome. I've been going here since the place opened and something that is very consistent is that the wait staff is notoriously slo'oooow. Even when it's not very busy. Sometime they'll completely forget about that round of drinks (just 2-3 drinks... not 20 or anything like that) you ordered 15min ago. Or you'll be given menus and then no follow up for decent amount of time. My favorite is ordering a beer, waiting and then watching the waitress remember... then run over to the bar to place the drink order. Happens a lot. One visit, it happened every single time I ordered a beer. I highly recommend sitting at the bar if you can. Your can order food there too. No service problem there. Other than that... great food, beer and atmosphere. A "must visit" place in Salem.
(4)Anthony S.
They have some really cool crepes, both sweet and savory, but don't dare order one of if you're during their brunch hours - they suddenly are incapable of making something on their menu all other times. Bizarre. Wait staff are pretty airy and don't seem to understand what serving a customer means. There are one or two that get it, but more often than not we get a spaceshot. This is still one of the better menus out there and is a cool place overall. I think I'd have rated it lower if I didn't love the cool art vibe in the bathrooms and throughout the restaurant.
(3)Justin P.
Woohoo, they got it together. Had a trippy DJ spinning some old-school hits as well as just plain old odd electronica, but it adds to the ambiance when you're drinking Absinthe or some Cedar flavored liqueur and eating a bohemian inspired fare. Glad to see they figured out how to hire young people that attend to their customers because with that food and drink selection plus the crazy looking artwork on the walls (in a good way) they can't lose! Back again as a regular, good to see it's being well-handled. Cheers from Boston!
(4)Jodi E.
I'm convinced I'll be drinking iced soy mochas until my dying day. This place is now on my radar and when I'm in Salem it just might be my go to coffee stop! So tasty! I snagged a sip of my boyfriends cold brew, which was delicious! We'd never been inside and weren't sure how to order or where to pay but the guy who helped us was friendly & helpful! We took our drinks to go but the atkosphere seems laid back and a place I think I'd enjoy hanging out in longer. Definitely stop in here!
(4)William S.
Best cappuccino ever, and great sandwiches in a relaxed atmosphere with incredibly pleasant staff. The Barcelona (a turkey sandwich) is my favorite and I tend to stick to favorites, so I can't comment on others but would willing to bet they are as good. An endless and interesting beer list, outdoor setting in warm weather, bagels on a Sunday morning: it all makes to living in Salem all the sweeter.
(5)Katie M.
My gluten free wrap was half the size of the regular wraps and 50 cents more. Service was mediocre, not great. Very good selection of beers and other beverages including cider! Food was good, but felt ripped off on the gf option.
(3)Robyn T.
If you're in the mood for junk food this may not be your place. However, in our eternal quest to treat our bodies better, this is such a great option. Although this place can sometimes be a little too earthy for me, everything I've had here is good. Plus they have a great adult beverage selection! The atmosphere is fun and funky and artistic. They have live music and open mic and everyone just sits where they feel, even if strangers are sharing tables. Most recently I ordered the roast beef and boursin wrap and although I felt it was tasty, it was a little small. I was actually still hungry when I left which is never a great sign. It doesn't really take away from the good experience but I probably won't order it again. This is a go-to place for a lot of people in Salem which makes it a regular spot for me. I always find something I know I'll like, and again, they have a great craft beer and cocktail selection.
(4)Julie Z.
I'll start by saying this restaurant is in a great location and is one of the only late night food options I was able to find on the almighty yelp while visiting Salem. However, nothing really stood out about the food. Got a lackluster spinach and artichoke dip and kielbasa which was not like I'm used to getting at home. I had high hopes for my mac and cheese but when I sat down to pen this review, I had honestly forgotten what I'd ordered and really had to think about it. Nothing bad, nothing spectacular. 3 stars
(3)Mark T.
Location: A very unique spot on downtown salem. Clean, and nicely set up, as if to hang out with friends but without an overly restaurant-y or bar-y feeling. There is also a creative personal touch from the owners that is pleasant but that I cannot accurately describe. However, the tables for two should have a bit more room, and it is hard to fit everything in combination with napkin/utensil holders. Service: It is polite, and friendly, however it can be very slow and inattentive. Although the restaurant was not busy, it took a while for the drinks (Cola and Iced Tea) to arrive, for our order to be taken and prepared. Halfway though my meal, I finished my tea, and the server asked if I would like a refill, I said yes. However, by the time it was brought to me I had already finished eating. I did not eat that fast either. If they had free refills this would not be an issue, but I ended up paying for a refill I barely touched. One final note is this, I asked if it would be possible to get more arugula salad on the side, rather than the server finding out and telling me it is a dollar, it was brought to my table with her stating it's only a dollar. The issue for me is that if I have to pay money, I have a right to decline before being charged. Saying no thanks after the salad has been brought to my table would feel kind of inappropriate. In the server's defense, I asked "is it possible to have more salad?", and not "How much would it cost to have more salad?" Food: I have no issue with the food, it is very good, has both unique and classic combinations, but it is not anything out of this world. The food is pleasant, and paninis are tasty, but again, by its nature it is nothing that could not be done at home with ingredient or a panini press. Oh, and them warming the Cap Cod chips adds a really nice touch. I have yet to try their crepes. Food does take a while, but their kitchen is the size of one in a really nice apartment. Suffice it is say tiny for an apartment. They are also overpriced. $10 of panini seems excessive, but then again, I am not aware of their costs.
(3)Jessica F.
My boyfriend and I stopped in here for a coffee while traveling. So I can only speak for the coffee. I got a blended iced coffee and it was amazing. This place is eclectic and fun. I also have a Boston terrier so I loved all the doggie tribute artwork.
(5)Anissa Z.
Hummus wraps, meatloaf, brunch and waffles. Everything was awesome. I had the orange and walnut salad with bacon. The meal was light and refreshing
(5)Mike P.
First time here. Very cool very hip vibe in a European style cafe. Interesting rock music in the air. Sat up at the bar and ordered a Far From The Tree Cider which hit the spot. I had the Barcelona Panini for lunch. Loved the crunchy bread and the moist turkey. It was complimented well with the mustard and the cinnamon aftertaste of the apple butter. Crisp potato chips and small garnish field green and Roasted Red pepper salad. Had a Second cider read my book between a girl knitting and a guy on his laptop. A very nice lunch. I expect to become a regular. Kaitlyn was a good bartender...mixing an absinthe drink right in front of me and making me feel like all my choices were the absolute right ones.
(5)Ian G.
Excellent iced coffee drinks, especially the frozen latte. Definitely a local spot. Offers board games and simple food items. Staff is very friendly and welcoming. I'm sure the evening crowd is very fun. This place is definitely worth a visit for any traveler!
(5)A W.
I like this place a lot. I like the food. I like the atmosphere. I like the location. The only thing is that it's can be under staffed. 35 minutes for a sandwich makes me want to just go home and make one myself. They could use one extra waiter too. But I still like this place.
(4)Katherine H.
I love this place. It's part of what makes me love Salem. The atmosphere, the people... But also the food. I have yet to go when there's live music but sandwiches, appetizers, dessert, coffee, brunch, some ginger ale type drink and everything I've tried there in my 4 visits was wonderful. I also love that they are family friendly and are in a great location.
(5)Jesse E.
My wife worked here since they opened. She was the kitchen manger for many years. I have been plenty of times. The staff has always been great, and very down to earth. The food was really good! I recommend the roast beef and Boursin wrap. The crepes and the breakfast sandwiches are very good as well. Tons of beer and wine to choose from at the bar. Overall a great atmosphere, great food and awesome staff. Couldn't be happier.
(5)Ian N.
A short while back I was rushing to get to work on time and had to skip breakfast. I work downtown, about 100ft from the Gulu, so I figured I'd swing in there after I get settled in at the office and grab a quick breffast sammich and a coffee. In, out, and back in the office in minutes. Done it dozens of times at other places in Salem, why would this be any different? Well, the answer to that is bored hipsters that don't give a sh*t about their jobs. My coffee was ready to roll in less than two minutes. The place was pretty empty, so I picked a good time. No complaints about the barista service. That guy was awesome and the coffee was excellent. HOWEVER, the kitchen was at a crawl. Like a 'fallen and I can't get up' geriatric 80-year old woman crawl. That's fine if you're an 80-year old woman who broke her hip slipping in the tub. If you're a 20-something hipster working in a kitchen of a busy (it wasn't at the time) downtown restaurant, this is not acceptable. I ordered a bacon, egg and cheese on crossaint. The following transpired over the next 20+ minutes as I waited... Cook slowly walked across the kitchen to get a plate Cook slowly walked back to same place to get a knife Cook slowly realized knife was dirty Cook slowly walked back to wash it Cook took 2 minutes to hem, haw, and make exasperated faces about how hard her life is in that kitchen Cook slowly started cooking the egg Cook slowly started cooking the bacon Cook slowly paced back and forth again and looked annoyed about having to do work Owner sat at his table, right next to where I was standing, and looked disinterested in the speed of his staff Barista noticed my annoyed look and kindly inquired about the delivery of my sammich Cook gave barista a dirty look and grumbled that it would be ready soon Barista kindly let me know that it was on its way Time passes... Seasons change... My beard grows to a ZZ Top level of respect... My coffee is long gone... My sandwich arrives. And this is par for the course. I think the Gulu offers a lot of great things - good food, a tremendous revolving beer selection, great coffee, relaxing atmosphere. The concept is great. However, whenever I go there the service is terrible and slow (particularly the wait staff and kitchen)...a trend that carries over to their sister pizzeria next door (another review for another time). While I'm sure my review won't change anything, I hope someone in charge takes notice and hires some decent help, rather than people that look cool. We already get enough of this at Snark Kitchen. There are other establishments around where you can be a funky place, but also knock customer service out of the park.
(2)Harry B.
Food at Gulu is pretty meh. Kind of overpriced for what you get, and nothing stands out as amazing... but they have a kickass beer list. 20ish beers on tap and they're almost always all great. They've got all sorts of crazy stuff on those taps and they're rotating them constantly. Skip the food and grab a drink when there's some live music playing here.
(4)Noha A.
I love love gulu, my university is nearby so I'm always there whenever I get the chance to go. The atmosphere is just as great as the service. They always have great bands playing to the set the mood. I always get a green tea with a Barcelona, which is the best sandwich!!! I recommend this place to all my friends and they always end up loving it just as much as I do!
(5)Arthur R.
We came here on the recommendation from another local business and the yelp reviews and we were not disappointed. I had the chicken cordon blue crepe (the Dijon mustard is spicy) and my wife had the portobello crepe. Excellent! We came for lunch so it was quiet and great for conversation.
(4)Christine H.
I love their drink selection, most especially the liqueurs and wines. Their food portions are somewhat small but everything I have had there, like the cheese plates and the crepes from savory to sweet, have been made with care and good ingredients. By the way, their "adult" coffees/ciders/chais are VERY good. An apple cider with amaretto should be on their menu all year round, and a Bailey's Chai is like heaven in a cup.
(5)Alex T.
Great place. Whether hanging out or on a mission for a meal this venue has it. A variety of bottled beer, combined with a home cooked cafe with an espresso bar. I ordered the Nice (Neese) Sandwich and took the recommendation for the plum jam spread. Excellent sandwich served on a home baked toasted bread, layered with apples, brie, and honey ham. Sweet and savory. Great place parked right in the midst of a perfect people watching spot in the town square. You must Try Try Gulu Gulu!!
(4)Tasha L.
Have been here more than 10 times and never getting tired of their foods! Foods are heavenly delicious!
(5)Keira L.
I've been going to Gulu for about 5 years. My go-to is an Iced Andes and Essjay Wrap on wheat. I'm also a fan of the meat &cheese coalition. Sweet crepes (banana strawberry nutella) and the berry nice are VERY good. I bring friends here whenever I can - it's great for vegetarians. Very cool vibe whenever you go in. The morning you'll usually find people working on their laptops. Nighttime is great for live music on weekends and wednesday (open mic). A great place in downtown Salem. Staff is consistently great. My one complaint is the portion size - it's not always consistent and is sometimes very disappointing.
(4)Valerie R.
Absolutely in LOVE with this place. It reminds me of some of the down to earth cafes I used to visit in San Francisco. Great atmosphere, low lull of friendly chatter, gluten free food options, and really pleasant staff. They allow dogs to eat with owners out on the patio, and they have an area for live entertainment, open mic, etc. Choose a comfy leather chair or sit at the bar to eat. The food is a mix of soups, salads, paninis, and desserts. I got the Istanbul panini with subbed gluten free wrap. It had turkey, tomato, fresh mozzarella, and pesto and came warm and toasty. Really happy with our choice to visit here! Wish there was something like it closer to home.
(5)Maddie B.
The service is awesome! The employees are nice, "hipster", unique in their own way, and very genuine. The atmosphere is really nice if you're into a really relaxed vibe. It's more for those who like to relax and a "hipster" scene. The scenery is very peaceful. I have to admit the food is a 3.5 out of a 5 but the atmosphere and the employee makes up for it. I recommend the russel stover coffee for rainy days, s'mores crepes (warning: the center has a lot of nutella), and the barcelona panini. :)
(5)Stephanie M.
I really, truly, absolutely love this place. I loved it when I lived in Salem, and I love it even more now that I live a ways away and have to drive up to Salem just to experience it. My girlfriend and I, during warmer weather and at the very beginning, or very far past October's end, make it a point to come up here at least once a month. We love to sit outside and people watch, or find a corner inside to sulk in for a couple of hours. Upon one trip here, my girlfriend and I met up with my best friend and after chatting for a while we stepped off the patio to have a cigarette. The doorman tried to warn us that we needed to stay close by due to capacity issues but we were clueless. We had to wait in line to get back onto the patio, our drinks calling to us from 5 feet away but we bantered with the doorman and weren't assholes about it like some other patrons. It's not their fault they have a fire code, and I've had some of my favorite places shut down for over occupancy. I generally only order the cheese plate.. because.. cheese. Need I say anymore? Ok.. I will. They have a mustard ale cheese that I have dreams about. The wait staff have always been incredibly friendly with us, but I'm one of those people that actually treats waitstaff with respect and am friendly right back at them. You get what you put out in this world. The beer selection is quite good, and they have my two favorite kinds of wine. Red.. and white. I know, I'm a classy girl that's hard to please. Since we generally sit outside we haven't experienced the live band action, but I could see the appeal for those that like that sort of thing. Overall? It's a really great place to have a good meal, with a lot of different options, a wide variety beer menu, and staff that isn't going to try to get you in and out.
(5)John D.
Well on my second visit this place impressed me. I had the best lunch and cocktail I've ever had here. I ordered the Munich sandwich and Gary Bussi cocktail they were both amazing. I'd love to take a date here sometime.
(4)Mallory T.
I live right on Washington Street in Salem. We have been here numerous times (perhaps each time expecting the food quality to change for the better?) and each time we leave wondering why this place is so popular. Yes, it has a "hipster" vibe, decent service, cheap prices. But the food itself Is so sub-par! Every time we get breakfast, the eggs are scorched and over cooked, the "Belgian waffle" is flat and sad looking, and the crepes are dry. Chicken salad wrap I ordered was filled with rubbery looking chicken and TONS of raw onion. I love raw onion but this was a little ridiculous. Not impressed, will probably not go again.
(2)D D.
Sad to say, they have a horrible breakfast. Nothing gluten free. They ran out of muffins. The creps are made on same skillet and my husband and daughter said their bagels were a weird horrible taste. I ordered eggs and beacon.... The eggs were FAKE!! fake eggs, really??!! why!!! Bty the coffe was either old or burnt. The oj was good...... I wanted it to be 4 stars.
(1)Corey L.
Stopped in on a Thursday night with a group of friends before a movie. Place has definite character. While we were there, they were playing Black Sabbath songs, with local art on the walls. We were told to grab a table, which we did. No server for at least the first 10 minutes. As we were waiting for a movie, this was annoying. The dude wandering around cleaning tables and doing random things ended up being our server - I found this out by asking him if we had a server. Which he claimed to be. I started with a hot toddy - called an oooooooohh something. It was warm with brandy, cider, stuff in it - cinnamon stick and I think cloves - that I also ate. It wasn't bad - my girlfriend really liked it. I woulda liked a bit more flavor to it. My girlfriend and I shared a cranberry salad, which was good - decent size and good mixture of ingredients, especially if you like cheese. It was deluged in cheese. My girlfriend got a strawberry smoothie with pineapple vodka. It was fine - tasted like good amount of liquor. No milk or ice cream - just strawberries and ice. I got the Munich sandwich, which came with a small salad and chips. The chips were kettle chips and the salad was nice, with a tasty dressing. The sandwich itself was grilled with rare beef and some Dijon mustard that had a horseradishy spice to it. Generally it was blander than I expected. I woulda liked more Dijon mustard in it - and more evenly distributed. We then finished up with a S'mores crepe. I was SUPER excited - I love S'mores (boy scout growing up) and am always disappointed by s'mores flavored stuff as it never tastes like s'mores - you need the melty marshmallows and chocolate. So this came melty and I was super excited. When it came, I quickly became very disappointed. It was a very well done crepe (read: too crispy and dry) with pieces of graham cracker inside and chocolate. There were also chocolate chips on top and whipped cream along the edge. No marshmallows. And too little chocolate in general. This coulda been really good and it really just wasn't. I really want to like this place - I go in trying to like it, but both the service and food keep stopping me. I'll likely try again and hopefully it will be better.
(3)Amanda J.
Came here with friends on a holiday weekend. The place was quite busy and so there was a wait. Upon entering I really loved the atmosphere in the place. But since they were so busy the service was incredibly slow. It took at least 15 minutes to get our drinks. But they did have a great selection of their drink menu. A couple of us had build your own crepes and they were so delicious! There are so many fillings to choose from, both sweet and savory. I really felt like they offered every filling I could possibly want. All sorts of cheeses, vegetables, meats, and dressings for the savory selections. I would definitely come back here, but perhaps when it was a little less crowded! I think our waitress in particular just seemed a bit clueless.
(4)Jeanette W.
Four stars for their beer selection. I wasn't impressed with the food. There isn't a wide range of food options if you aren't there for breakfast. I only went twice at night to listen to music. This spot is definitely best for breakfast or lunch. Their vegetable soup was more like blended veggies, very chunky and not very soup like, very thick.
(4)Nancy F.
Very good! We tried the patsy, terrific! The Eden. A crepe with fruit, very tasty. But I should have chosen something more savory. The oinkers was awesome. It passed the Chuckie review. He thought it was perfect. Great breakfast!!!! Cary was awesome and fun.
(4)Stacey S.
this place is the Tops! love the atmosphere and the food. great service and love the menu options. the soups are to die for
(5)Lisa M.
Very healthy options and we need more of that around here. The atmosphere is very hip and cool! Great background music, and not too loud! Most people say they return cause is one of good feeling kind of places!
(5)Dave M.
the place was pretty decent but not particularly anything special IMO. we got a brieberry crepe ($8) and the Barcelona panini ($9.25). both were good. the place is pretty big and well maintained. they provide a unique environment in a good way. our waitress never gave me a water refill so i had to ask another worker for that. service wasn't too great. i would recommend this place.
(3)Katie O.
Went there on an open mic night and ordered the Bagel w/ Lox. Absolutely delicious, and they didn't skimp on anything. I did have to order it from the bar in order to get service, but I kinda figured that would be the case based on other reviews. Food came out quickly, and the beer selection was great! Neat little vibe, too.
(3)Kylie D.
Great little spot in a lovely part of Salem. Great for hipster families with kids (I say that with love!), singles, whomever. Service was excellent! Our server brought a sliced banana for my friend's daughter on a rustic-looking cutting board instead of just throwing it in a bowl. Classy! My crepe was good and since I don't eat a lot of crepes, I can only say that I enjoyed it and that all the ingredients were fresh and yummy. Overall a great place, especially on a nice day - outside seating near the square is charming.
(4)Franklin M.
Great service from our waiter, he couldn't be more helpful. We ordered an iced mocha and it was very good, it had the perfect flavor and not over sweetened. My teen daughter ordered a few items and devoured them all, she is picky so that is a good sign that the food is good.
(5)Carrie H.
I am hooked! Spent the weekend before Halloween up in Salem and this place is in walking distance from our hotel. We ate breakfast, lunch, dinner and in-betweens there. I HEART THIS PLACE!!! Cappuccino drinkers you will bask in its wonderfulness!!! It's big, it's delightful and I could not stop drinking them. Latte's just as good. We loved the sandwiches, the salads, the crepes with bananas and nutella were out of this world. We were there on the busiest week of the year and the service was great. I even hunted down the owner and told him how much I loved this place. Not sure what previous reviews are talking about "hipsters" I'm a 57 year old woman and I don't give a ___ who I'm eating "around" If the food is good and the price is good and the location is good. Stop your whining!!
(5)Vickie W.
Really awesome place! Waitstaff is attentive and helpful! Fannnntastic beer selection, standard fare annnd imports, something for everyone here!
(4)Bradley L.
Visited Salem last night and stopped into Gulu Gulu in search of some slightly "modern" cafe fare. Seeing how it looked like a hip place, crawling with tatted folks with septums, I assumed Gulu Gulu would at least have an inventive menu to attract pretentious foodies. Upon first inspection of the menu I was hugely dissapointed. My only choices for a filling meal were crepes and sandwiches. Oh well, it's my fault for assuming they would at least have burgers or something. As I already ordered a beer I figured I would just stay and try out some of their food. I ordered the "soup of the day" which was, of course, clam chowder. It arrived in a small bowl, resting upon a bed of mixed greens on an extra large plate... why was my bowl of soup on a bed of mixed greens? Super cheesy. To get back to the soup itself... It was definitely Blount soup from a bag. Oh well. I also tried their take on a charcuterie plate. I got the French boursin cheese, the cranberry wensleydale and "their" famous Ghost pepper salami. The plate arrived with a ramekin of the boursin, haggardly sliced pieces of salami and the wensleydale resting on a bed of lettuce. Pointless plate garnish again..Oh well.. The plate was also served with the same bread that came with my blount clam chowder. I put their in quotations because most people dont realize they get their meat and cheese from some major distributor like Sam Wainer or US Foods. Lastly i tried the "Munich" panini. Rare roast beef, swiss cheese, dijon and dill pickle. When it arrived to the table i noticed that the bread my sandwich was on was the same bread from the soup and the cheese plate... do they literally only carry this one loaf of white bread? The sandwich itself was boring, had no flavor and my dill pickle was just those flimsy pickle chips you'd get on a whopper. Pros: Cozy atmosphere and the beer list is actually very good. I had the Founders Dark Penance black IPA. An ample serving for only 5 bucks. Go for the bar, stay away from the food.
(2)Daniel H.
Ordered a meal and waited 20 minutes before being told wasn't available. Served cold coffee too
(1)Jenna P.
Gah..I love this place. The Gulu has it all--delicious food of all sorts, scrumptious crepes and treats, tons of beer selections, and a spectacular bean. Cannot forget about the comfy environment and the visually appealing decor. If you hit it right, you can also enjoy some live local music which is almost always surprisingly awesome! A must visit when you're in Salem!
(5)Janice R.
Wow!! Excellent breakfast!! Fresh delicious eggs in wonderful croissant, and banana bread. Superb coffee!! Give me another. Wait service so nice!!! Thank you to Matt!! With all our demands and questions since we are new customers today. lol We sat by the speaker, but then my husband asked for the music to be turned down! and they turned it down, thank you! I/we shall be back!! and soon!!
(5)Stephanie S.
Sad to say I didn't care much for this place. I ordered the chicken Caesar wrap. It had too many croutons and was really salty. The lobster bisque soup was good though. My friend didn't love her dish either. It was the brunch mushroom burger. The atmosphere is cool and the service was good.
(3)Michael M.
Though I've been a regular for years now, it is with recent frustration that I've finally succumbed to writing this less than stellar review. In fact I feel it is my obligation to do so, in hopes that something may give, and standards may change. The Gulu Gulu has always provided a great menu, a vast beer selection, and a perfect atmosphere. This rings true especially for local artists within the community. It's perfect to inhabit on any given day no matter the season. And though the employees are enjoyable in their own right, I find the establishments overall service level lackluster at best. With few exceptions it never seems as though any employee, no matter how seasoned a veteran, possesses a sense of urgency when serving the customer. This a trait I know first hand all too well, and have forgiven one too many times. Twice this week staff have failed in providing me with what I consider a proper level of service and attention. The first failure took place while dining at the bar for lunch. I was only one of two patrons inhabiting the bar. And yet It took a solid 25 mins to order lunch. Upon completion of my meal both bartenders neglected to check in with me. Chatting away, careless and fancy free they waltzed back and forth in front of me several times. All the while awaiting an opportunity to ask for my bill. Something that never presented itself. A an equally kind and diligent floor waitress whose name was Natalie eventually noticed something wrong. It was she that ended up presenting me with my bill without me even having to ask. Irritated but only slightly I let it slide and left to resume my day. But it was last evening when I called to place a take out order - was placed on hold, all the while driving from the N. Shore Mall to the YMCA (16 mins in traffic) where I parked my car, exited, and walked into the restaurant STILL ON HOLD awaiting my order to be had that iced this already bitter cake. Knowing the bar staff personally seemed to warrant a sigh of relief on their part. Jovially playing it off as a mistake, they verbalized their relief when learning it was ONLY me. Am I not a customer? Despite how often I frequent the establishment, or how well you know me as a person, do I not deserve the same service and respect that I'd get elsewhere? Does the Gulu Gulu feel invincible or are they just that apathetic about how their customers feel? Whatever their mentality I've chosen to bring my business elsewhere. Perhaps I'll enjoy my coffee from a local bakery and my lunch from the newly established Ugly Mug.
(2)CJ B.
All the right moves: -Welcomes dogs -Wait staff with funky outfits -Lots of non natural hair colors in the kitchen -Guy in motorcycle jacket at the bar writing emails -Mismatched tables and chairs -Pink Floyd on the sound system BUT unfortunately the food is pretty pedestrian. Even though they had interesting names, our sandwiches were corporate cold cuts on uninspired bread with a very small salad and a few chips. And the advertised Lentil Soup turned out to be beef barley!
(3)Jenn S.
Just stopped by for a cup of coffee so this will be short but I wanted to comment on how nice the staff was. We walked up to the little to-go counter on the left and ordered coffee and hot tea. Tasted great and loved the service!
(4)William D.
You refused to make a spinwich on a Sunday despite all the ingredients for it being on the menu in other items and the means to prepare it being available. Odd for an otherwise welcoming and pleasant place. This was our last day on the north shore and we went out of our way to come back here.
(4)Kevin D.
The wife and I spend a bunch of time in Salem and their is no question in either of our minds that Gulu Gulu is the best spot in town. Awesome beer list, great food, great vibe, dog friendly, nice outdoor seating, good music and entertainment, and a great vibe (did I already say that?). Also, don't miss the breakfast. Awesome breakfast sandwiches (especially the one with the ghost pepper salami). We love them so much we had them cater the breakfast after our wedding (bagels, muffins, coffee, juices) and they were great.
(5)Chris L.
I hate yelp. I hate everything about it because on estimate I'd say about 85% of the people who write bad reviews should not be saying anything at all. If someone has something to say about something that went horribly wrong, let a manager know while you're there so they can fix it, rather than going home all pissed off and tearing the place apart. That being said, i'm no expert, but i know the industry, and this place is awesome. Everything about it is great. Respect for trying to divert from the norm and have people experiment with different foods and flavors and encouraging it. It is a great place to sit and enjoy the day and eat some great food. This place is what a caffe is all about. The prices are also extremely resonable for the high quality food they put out. Again, boo too all who say the service is bad or whatever. This isn't a "get em in get em out" kinda place, and the service reflects that perfectly. If you're looking for that, go to McDonalds.
(5)Natalie C.
Confused as to why this place is so highly rated by everyone. The food was decent but plain. The menu doesn't boast anything new or exciting. I got the vegetarian breakfast sandwich and it was greasy and average. The service was truly terrible. It took 20 minutes to get a cup of house blend coffee and I never the cup of water I asked for. I wouldn't recommend this place.
(2)Juanita D.
This is the cutest little coffee/creperie/sandwich shop in alllll of Salem! While traveling around the Boston area we made a quick day trip to Salem, MA. My friend decided to take me to this local spot that she said was too cute to be true. Great little spot to hang out with your friends or talk to some interesting people. Woodsy kinda feel inside, board games, very open area in little shopping area of town & close to the Salem Witch Museum. Awesome Crepes & the hot chocolate is tooooo die for! You MUST try this place otu!
(5)Cheri S.
A fun beatnik type of cafe with a good variety of food for all. Try the mack 'n cheese - it's definitely worth it. Good selection of house cocktails and beer on tap. We enjoyed a late night meal, so it was pretty dark (as in not much light) and there was musical entertainment which varies nightly. The servers were quirky, but attentive attentive.
(4)Epi I.
Had wine and appetizers. Wine was fine. Had their bruschetta. Sadly to say, the bread was not toasted and on the bread was only canned tomato and a couple of pieces of basil w/a little bit of olive oil. We should've returned it but we thought we'd just enjoy the afternoon and our wine. Then, there was a little group sitting next to us. They kept having someone come over and check on them while we sat there without anyone asking us if the bruschetta was ok or if we wanted another drink. I ended up flagging one of the servers to ask for water. I gave them the dirty look for ignoring us. Then I had to walk inside the cafe to get a server to bring us our check. TERRIBLE SERVICE HERE. MAYBE IT'S COMMON HERE IN SALEM TO GIVE BAD SERVICE TO VISITORS. I wish Yelp allowed minus stars. I'd give Gulu Gulu Cafe MINUS 5! I'll never visit this cafe again.
(1)Mark L.
I have been here a number of times for drinks. It is always a pleasant atmosphere with a very good selection of beer. This is the first time I have been for breakfast. The coffee is good. The kitchen is a bit slow but the waitstaff is attentive and the food is well worth the wait.
(4)Derek W.
This review is for breakfast. Not really impressed. Service was arduously slow. I ordered the traditional crepe with ham. It was wicked dry, without much flavor at all. Coffee was acceptable. The inside of this place is pretty hipster looking and funky.
(3)Gypsy M.
On my most recent visit I was horrified to see if they had dressed up the iconic bulldog painting on the window in what seemed to be a mockery of Native American cultural costume. When I told the worker that as a Native American customer I felt alienated and that it was racist I was met with sarcasm and scorn. I heard that eventually they removed it due to increased pressure and complaints, but I don't want to dine in a place where the atmosphere is one of racism.
(1)Mikhail M.
Such a cute place! I loved the quirky style of this authentically Boston themed cafe. Spacious and bright, eating brunch at Gulu Gulu feels like a Sunday morning with friends and faming. The veggie crepe was delicious and I can also recommended the Berry and Nice if you are looking for something sweet.
(5)Sarah M.
Love the atmosphere and the beer selection. The salmon/lettuce wraps are delicious, as are the crepes. (I recommend the Hungarian one with the plum jam). The service can be a bit slow -- that's the main thing I'd change.
(4)Tulan K.
This is the best place to have some good beer. The cheese and meat plates are delicious. I specially loved their Ghost pepper , cilantro and tequila infused salami. It is a loud place with bands playing there and also sort of sit yourself place. Sandwiches were ok since the bread was too hard and actually hurt when you bite in but i think this place is def worth it for its cheese and meats.
(5)Lil M.
I'd say 3.5 stars. Its in a great spot in Salem. The waiters are busy, and there was a long wait for food and drinks and the check. So, needeless extra time spent at the Gulu Gulu, which I would name sort of a hipster bistro. The meat & cheese plate was great. The coffee was so-so and the crepes were nothing to write home about.
(3)Amy H.
Saturday night in Salem during October is no joke. Every restaurant was packed, the streets were packed, and the one place that could seat us didn't appear to have any waitstaff working. We put our name in at Gulu Gulu, because a 30-min wait was the best yet, and went to the bar to have drinks while we waited. Luckily we found seats at the bar, so we just sat there and ordered food. Everything was delicious! Crepes, wraps, and sandwiches were super fresh and tasty, and since we were sitting at the bar, we could watch the cooks work. The beer selection is fantastic (Southern Tier Pumpkin ftw), and the bartenders were helpful with suggestions. A great, cozy, funky local spot that I will definitely visit again. My friends who stayed in Salem went back the next morning for breakfast. :)
(5)Katelyn B.
Hipster haven. I used to adore this place. It's a great place to go and spend some time playing games, hanging out with friends, listening to local music, and grabbing a drink. I really loved this place when their open mic nights first started. In my opinion, it's gone down hill. The food is pretty good, but I always went for the deserts! They've changed that portion of the menu so many times in the past few years, all my favorites are gone. And now it's weird. Good luck trying to get a table when there is live entertainment or during tourist season. (Anytime.) Open Mic Night...forget it. Jeff and Brian are great hosts! However the talent pool has changed. It's all old hipsters playing their pan flutes and singing cover songs. There seem to be a lot of inside jokes and "Gulu celebrities" that are made a big deal about but not everyone knows/understands. I miss the old days Gulu...I really do.
(3)Clarke B.
We live out of the area, but every time we are in Salem, we come here. It's, fan friggan tastic!!!!
(5)Lisa C.
One of my favs in Salem. I haven't tried all the food on the menu (b/c I don't eat a lot of things) but I love what I do get and my friends have always been happy with their selections. Great coffee. Staff are always friendly. I haven't had any of the frustrations that some other reviewers have had and I'm there pretty often, mostly during the day time.
(4)chris b.
Great vibe to this place. Plenty of seating and ample bar space if you come in "solo" or with just a few friends. Their "Mind Sweeper" caffeinated beverage does the job nicely if you need a pick-me-up. I had a Smoked Turkey, Bacon, and Avocado wrap that was prepared just the way I like it. If you join their "Gulu Gulu" club (not sure how easy that is to get into) you get to drink your beer from an elaborate chalice.
(5)Joeli G.
If you can take eating around a plethora of Hipsters without gagging, then you could come here and get a sandwich and a beer. It's pricy for what it is and the waitstaff hipsters are....hipsters....so it's hit or miss on service. Food is fresh though and beer is draft. Coffee isn't too bad either and they have a tea menu (of course! #%*+ hipsters). I despise that people take up entire tables to click away on their computer machines while they drink an entire pot of tea themselves; but that's just me. Not my favorite place or one I frequent as a local but good for a passer by that wants to soak up a piece of Salem's diverse scene and grab a bite to eat. Please don't feed the hipsters.
(2)Frank Z.
This is a fun place to see some live music and have a few tasty drinks. The food is good but quite limited. Check the menu online before you stroll in expecting a full menu. The food I have gotten has been good and the funky beers and cocktails are great. I can dig a place like this. Be prepared for cliché tattooed hipsters with ear spacers and septum piercings sitting for hours glued their apple electronic products while they nurse a coffee and take up a seat. At the same time, I'll take that over the sport-a-thon meatmarket bars that are all over town any day of the week. They have live music which can be hit or miss; I've seen some great performances there, and some questionable ones too. That being said, it's better than staring at a muted Sportscenter screen all night, to be sure. I wish more places were like this in the 'burbs.
(4)Lisa L.
I thought the entertainment was great first time going there I noticed it gets pretty crowded. You go up to the bar to order your food, the staff was diligent and polite ,though I only got a coffee and a parfait I thought the food was great Ive had many parfaits but theres was the best! I Plan to go back and try something else and see more great performances, great vibes.
(4)Marshunda S.
Great place to have a sandwich...and EXCELLENT sandwich. I frequent this café more often.
(5)Gia L.
Nice spot in town. Good food, somewhat pretentious, although it appears trendy for young hipsters. Service was good, but we noticed that the manager was sitting at the counter behind us, so that may have played a role in the increased work production of staff. Nice selection of beer and coffee beverages, and they have love music frequently. Good tourist spot if your not in a rush.
(3)Kimberly K.
I give it 4 for a great vibe, being totalllly unique and having great craft brews. Their food is not great, but I was kind of ok with that. The cheese board was good. But everything else was just kinda "meh" Service was good. I will come back late sometime to check out the live band scene. Perhaps that'll really warrant my 4 stars.
(4)Alex K.
Gulu Gulu gets a five-star review relative to the rest of the North Shore. Having moved from the West Coast, this is exactly the kind of place I miss having: Where one of us can have a cup of coffee and the other a glass of wine, where I can get some work done or shut the laptop and enjoy a slow conversation. The coffee is good, the food is not bad, the vibe is great.
(5)K H.
Love it here! Great coffee & conversation place. Nice lunch and snacks! of course, Amazing coffee
(4)Gina Marie B.
This is exactly the kind of place I was looking to visit when I went to Salem. It is as artsy as it gets. Live music, cute waiters with tattoos, art on the walls, french food, etc. A truly fun place in the middle of town that reminded me a lot of cafes in the artist colony areas of the village and Williamsburg Brooklyn. However this place was a tad bigger then those. The most interesting thing about the set up here was that it was half cafe and half bar. Something I actually do not see too much of in the artist colonies. You could come here at night for just a drink, or just for desert, or just for a sandwich, etc. I could see it was a lot of places home away from home. It has a relaxed atmosphere. You walk in and you seat yourself. It can get very busy so do not alway expect to find a seat! But a waiter will come up to you shortly when you do. The menu is a small cafe menu. They are trying to re-create what you would see in a lot of French cafes. So if you are dying for a menu with a thousand options, and foods such as big juicy stakes and pork chops, then do not come here for dinner. If you are a crepe, cheese, panini, and a yummy dessert drink lover then come here. I got a drink that literally tasted like strong alcoholic chocolate syrup! YUMMY! I got a cheese plate. Cheese plate in general are expensive but this place was worth the money, and the quality. Most NYC places I go to that have cheese plates offer you the tinniest little crumb of cheese. This place gave you a huge slab of cheese and an entire huge bowl of bread to go along with it. I could not believe the size, I ended up taking a lot home. It was very good! My boyfriend and I then shared the banana and nutella crepe that they had. It was very very good. I am not a huge crepe person to begin with, but could tell this was a good crepe. Service was fast and very friendly, everyone seemed to be having a great time. I will be coming back here next time I visit Salem!
(5)Chrissy H.
This is my home away from home. I should probably pay them rent. Free wi-fi, good music, coffee, tea, bagels, crepes and art work make this a perfect place to get off campus (this means you Salem State!) and get some work done. Between 9:30 and 10:30, it's nice and quiet. 11:30-2 the lunch crowd comes in and there's some bustle, but nothing over the top. Grab a snack! Waffles, oatmeal or a bagel in the morning. Wraps, salads, meat and cheese plates for lunch or dinner. And don't forget the crepes! Coffee, tea -even refreshing iced tea- my favorite and a rarity in New England in the winter! For those of you not giving your liver a rest, get a beer flight! It's cheap and the best way to find a new favorite craft beer! If you see a girl in bangs with her head buried in a book, come say hi, I could use a distraction from schoolwork!
(5)Kate D.
My opinion has changed and this has now become one of my favorite spots in Salem. Food, beer, service and atmosphere is great. Love the hipster vibe to it. I would highly recommend any of their paninis - delish! Love Gulu Gulu!
(5)Sona T.
Dropped in Sunday morning for breakfast. We were really looking forward to coming here for breakfast due to its presence and the reviews. We sat ourselves, which I think is a strange policy so people coming in had to make their own system. We sat down and ordered regular coffee (bitter and strong) and ordered two breakfast sandwiches and a waffle. We were waiting for 45 minutes! We told the waitstaff that we've been waiting so long and got a lackluster apology. It seemed they were making food for the larger groups first. We got so fed up, that we voided our food (we were still 6-8 tickets away from our food being cooked!) and went somewhere else to have lunch. Came for breakfast, waited long enough for lunch. Also, the waitress was rude when we voided our food; I have not had one pleasant encounter with the staff here. They seem to be running around all the time but they're not accomplishing anything. I was really looking forward to a nice experience.
(1)Liliya M.
This place is my go to spot when visiting Salem. The servers are always friendly, the seating is perfect (couches for coffee, high stools for drinks, tables for meals), and they have a sweet menu with pretty reasonable pricing. * Tip: Though their crepes are super tasty, I suggest going with a sandwich if you are looking for something more filling. *
(4)Narcissus A.
I tried so hard to like this place but it's just not happening.... I went there 4 times total and to be honest if rather sit by the lobster shanty than this place Service is constantly slow and kind of irresponsible. I waited for my server for over 30 minutes twice and they werent even that busy. The crowd is a veey weird mixture of people and the place just gives me a weird vibe overall. I think it's the service. Waiters look constantly bored and kind of out of place and sync with their surroundings. Sorry Gulu Gulu.... I tried... maybe it's just not for me :)
(2)Chris B.
My girlfriend and I just stopped in while visiting Salem for the weekend. I got the tbgt wrap and it was a knockout. Great food, super quick wait, awesome music, and right across the street from the fair! Definitely will come back!
(5)Joe M.
Annie you rock!!!!! Definitely a must stop when your in Salem, mass. The ambience is funky. Lots of painting of dogs and superhero action figures. I sat on the couch and had a 360 view of the entire place. For starters the Kopanisti and Utopenee is a light appetizer. Enjoy.
(5)Iris B.
great helpful friendly staff, good food selections, good music, cool atmosphere.. what's not to like? I came in for lunch on a recent visit to Salem (which is a cool city btw) and what I ordered was really yummy plus they have good options for veggie heads out there :)
(4)Paulina P.
This is a quaint and whimsical pace with good food and great drinks. Perfect rest stop while exploring the city.
(4)Kelly R.
I have been stalking the Gulu Gulu for the better part of the last year and finally found an opportunity to try them out. My husband has been a law student the last 3 years and finding time to go out and relax doesn't happen often. There is a quote/descriptive on their menu that says "The Gulu Gulu Cafe is a bohemian outpost..." And I couldn't have said it any better myself. This gem of an outpost was a wonderful escape from the ordinary and a light in our day! Warm and cozy with an air of relaxation and ambiance, we made our way to the bar. There we were warmly greeted and handed menus while we took in the bountiful bar selection. A nice variety of beers, both local, micro, and international (esp. Czech & Belgian). The menu was eclectic, generous, and delicious. We settled on sharing their Barcelona Panini (smoked turkey & Manchego cheese) which was well portioned with a small green salad and Cape Cod chips. It hit the spot! We paired the sandwich with a beer, myself a stout, himself a Trappist ale. To top off our impromptu lunch we were delighted to see that they offered French Press, so we indulged. Perfect spot to relax and unwind while treating yourself to a great atmosphere with delicious food! The Gulu was wonderfully creative and there were folks of all ages enjoying themselves. Truly an enclave worthy of escape. We look forward to escaping there again soon!
(4)Sabrina S.
LOVE GULU'S such a unique hotspot to check out when you go to salem! Thank god I live 10 minutes away from gulu's, I introduce all my friends to this place and play board games and eat good snacks! The Crepes are to DIE for, literally so perfect! I can't forget to mention that the service there is great!
(4)Deborah G.
great little spot!
(4)Danie R.
Beer selection, cheese plate, done. Everything else kind of sucks and is disappointing, especially if you're vegetarian. I've gotten crepes and they were cold on the inside. They were supposed to be hot and melty. Negative. I've gotten sandwiches. So boring that it's like, what's the point? Seriously, stick with their drinks. Coffee, tea, beer, all great here. Cheese plate? Do it! They can't mess that up! But don't get the regular cheddar. Meh. Always the red dragon. Always the marinated brie. Don't worry about it. Just stick with this stuff and you'll like this place. Also, don't come here in October. It'll be packed and you'll take 5 years to get a table and another 5 more to get your food.
(3)Sarah F.
Gluten-free crepes, gluten-free wraps, and gluten-free PIES!!!!! Delicious food, relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff, and a few comfy couches for patrons make this a surprisingly kid-friendly place. There is of course "regular" food for people without gluten intolerance.
(4)Lynda L.
Amazing iced coffee!!! Cold-brewed is the way to go!!! Love it Love it! I also highly recommend the S'Mores Crepe, so decadent and yummy. Sandwiches are deeeeelish too!
(5)Mara S.
This is a nice, casual place for some brunch or lunch. We stopped in around 1 on a Sunday and it was busy, but the wait was only a few minutes. Our food was good - I got a savory crepe, highly recommended, and everyone else got paninis which they seemed to enjoy. I wasn't expecting a crepe to be especially filling, but it was definitely a full meal. Service was a touch slow, but I wouldn't call that the wait staff's fault, it was busy.
(4)Elizabeth R.
4 Stars for the beer selection and live music. I'm here frequently and have mixed feelings -on one hand, the atmosphere is great... very relaxed. On the other hand, the atmosphere is really relaxed. Nope, not a misprint. While the hip cafe vibe works, it also works against this place. Seating is "take what you can get". On weekends, or nights when there is live music, regulars come early and stay for the duration, meaning the establishment and servers are missing out on revenue from the tables that they could be turning over, were they not occupied. Service is also hit or miss. Waiting an hour for breakfast in Salem is par for the course in October, but not so much in midwinter. And don't even think about playing one of the games in the cabinet... Last time we attempted their Scrabble, we had to cannibalize tiles from the several sets on hand. But Gulu-Gulu, I just can't hate you. You mean well. And there is nowhere else in town you can watch a guy in full Halloween getup rock out to a full house in July, or where my boyfriend can drunkenly buy ironic start trek paintings (swearing all the while we're geeks, not hipsters). And they deserve credit for that. Plus, the beer.
(4)Mike R.
Beer Cheese Soup, wow!!! Awesome beer list too! Love this quirky little place that is an escape from the witchiness enveloping most of Salem!
(5)nick c.
It's a great place! Good food, friendly people, comfortable atmosphere. I'm a regular for a reason. When I go out, I think about going other places, but most of the time I end up at Gulu.
(5)Beth A.
I'm actually a big fan of this place until they changed the weekend menu. The cut the crepes list half and the breakfast sandwiches. My partner and I went in on MLK Day and they didn't have anything that we usually order, even the cheese and meat platter folks rave about - gone. The kitchen refused to make a simple butter crepe. We were so disappointed. Please bring back your regular menu!!
(3)Sarah J.
My mom and I come to Massachusetts every year and visit Salem! We always make a point to stop at this wonderful place because of their amazing crepes! We are never disappointed with the food or the service. Try the Nutella and banana crepe!
(5)Lara L.
Quite disappointed that this was my least favorite restaurant in Salem but even that isn't necessarily an insult to Gulu. I think we came there at a crazy time of the day. So I want to give them the benefit of the doubt. They let our dog sit with us and provided fresh water for him (and us) after a very long drive which is always much appreciated. I was just super bummed by how so-so my crepe tasted! And my husbands meal was just average. The best thing I got there was the Italian Stallion. I'd definitely go there again for some spiked coffee. But not for crepes.
(3)N B.
Poor service. We ordered 2 soups of the day(vegetable soup) and my friend wanted to order mac and cheese and asked the waiter if it will be ready at the same time as the soup since were in hurry to catch a train. After waiting for 20 min we asked the waiter if the food was ready. He said -'you should've told before"!!! Was the question about bringing mac and cheese in time with the soup not enough??? He should've told us that if some dish is taking longer or something. He didn't give any explanation for his delay. And then he was dilly dallying around and wont even look at us when we asked for our check. He almost made us miss our train. We spent 40 min there for something which should have been done in 15min. Never eating there again. Also the soup tasted awful and wasn't worth the $5.50.
(1)Derek S.
Food is great. Drinks are delicious. Atmosphere is good, though aim to sit inside. The outside seating (more often than not) has proved unsatisfactory due to sewer gas coming from the storm drains nearby.
(4)Dean H.
There can be a wait but it's worth it. Huge craft beer selection, creeps and sandwiches are tasty at a reasonable price. Only downside is the campers who bring their laptops and hangout for hours.
(3)J P.
was here tonight and it was crazy busy. I dont really mind sitting yourself but I do mind when its super busy and people are just sitting with their laptops drinking tea. Or people taking up tables just sitting and talking no food or drink go to Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts. Its way too packed in there for that nonsense espcially during Haunted Happenings it shouldnt be allowed. The food is good not as good as the last time we were here. Ordered the red zen tea it was pretty good and got the Istanbul and it just wasnt as good as I remembered. My partner got the barcelona and she loved it.
(3)Christina M.
If you want to visit a cool cafe with a local artists vibe, Gulu Gulu Cafe is the place for you. It's a seat-yourself kind of place with tables, booths, and lounge spaces for you to choose from. They even sell the art hanging on the walls, if modern art is your thing. My visiting family from the Dominican Republic didn't get it, and proceeded to spend a good 20 minutes laughing about how much money they could make getting their little kids to create the same kind of "art". Well, to each his own! The food itself was a mixed bag for me. The portions were pretty small, so you may find ordering an appetizer or pastry helpful if you are really hungry. The paninis half our table ordered were delicious, and I liked how the sandwiches, wraps, and crepes came with a mixed green salad. It was a tiny salad, but still tasty and appreciated as an extra taste on the plate. However, we were really disappointed by the crepes. I ordered the chicken cordon bleu crepe, and it had an atrocious amount of Dijon mustard that was so spicy it literally cleared my sinuses and made me tear. They were nice enough to take it back and prepare the crepe without the mustard, but it still was a flat square crepe with so-so filling. If you're going for crepes, don't! Gulu Gule Cafe can't hold a candle to the deliciousness that are crepe sandwiches in other places, like Mr. Crepe in Davis Square, for example. If I ever came back I would stick to the panini sandwiches. Or better yet, get a coffee and snack and read a book during off-peak times instead.
(3)Courtney N.
This place doesn't get the credit it deserves. The food is incredible, the beer selection is extensive and interesting, the atmosphere is cool and hip without being off-putting. I lived in Salem for a couple of years, and Gulu was the go-to place for me to bring my out-of-towner friends when they came to visit. Live music, board games, friendly servers who don't get annoyed with my indecisiveness. What more could you want! The meat and cheese coalition is fantastic, and big enough to eat as a meal. The paninis and wraps are delicious (try the Istanbul--best sandwich I've ever had in my life). Cookies are humongous and served warm. I really can't enough good things about this place. Check it out!
(5)Courtney G.
Came here yesterday for lunch and a few beers and I'm glad I did. When we got there is was packed but they offered us a couch to eat and drink at. It was so adorable. My friend and I felt like we were in an episode of friends. We each got a pumpkin beer and I ordered the Lyon Vegitarian panini while my friend ordered the Portobello salad as a wrap. Both were delicious. The best part about our meal I thought was our waitress. She was so sweet and funny. Even when it got busy she still would come over to check on us during our leisurely 2 hour lunch. I don't remember her name, otherwise I'd call her out, but she had short hair and reminded me of what Tinkerbell would probably look and act like. This was one of our first stops in Salem and it really set the mood for the whole day. I definitely recommend it.
(5)Matt W.
Good draft brew selection. Girlfriend had a white mocha. Nice ambiance. A little hard to get a seat inside on a rainy day(^_^)
(4)Amanda G.
Had a very lovely lunch at Gulu Gulu! My savory crepe was divine - the dough itself had fragrant herbs mixed in, and the gruyere chicken, and basil were fresh, with good portions of each. Was a bit disappointed that they were out of d'affinois cheese however, as I think it would have been even better. The blueberrry/brie crepe was a bit less of a hit - the Brie wasn't melted enough but the blueberries were pleasant. Nice latte selection as well. Would certainly go back and try more of the crepes!
(4)Shaun S.
-dog friendly -food was a tad bit $ -decent beer selection -service was super slow like european slow
(4)Michele H.
I have not had a bad dish here. Their smoked salmon and cream cheese plate is incredible. Amazing panini. I love their bread and cheese pairings. Beer is abundant, with craft brews for all. And just a great atmosphere.
(5)Anne S.
This was a stop during our Salem visit. The ambience is great! Very inviting! They had a few good gluten free options for my daughter. She had a roast beef and Swiss on a Gluten free wrap and she loved it. The coffees and crepes were also very good!
(5)Jo-e M.
Our favorite bar in Salem. We have been coming here for a little while (before we moved to Salem) and always liked it - friendly staff, great beer, great location, great food. Can't recommend this place enough
(5)Melissa G.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this place! My go to anytime I am in salem and sometimes I'll even drive to salem just to eat there
(5)E. H.
The service here is painfully slow. And sullen. Where is the sense of urgency? I have been here when it was dead--DEAD--and it took them over half an hour to make a bad crepe. I watched. I was surprised the kid who made it could see through all that ennui. I have heard similar food related horror stories from my friends--soup sent back multiple times to be reheated, only to have it come back cold--but what I really don't like here is the management. They're just...not nice people. I think they've banned two thirds of Salem from this place. That's fine for tourist season, but it's not a good idea to alienate the locals. What happens when the natives get restless?
(1)Donato A.
Excellent food and prices. I love the panini sandwiches. Large selection of beers and very comfortable atmosphere. We love sitting by the windows. No pressure from wait staff to order. One thing for sure is you need to bring back the "PALERMO" panini.
(5)Niki S.
I love the Gulu!! After tonight's Chicken Caesar Wrap, I had to finally sit down and write a review.. Every time I have gone to the Gulu-Gulu, I have enjoyed myself and the chill atmosphere. I really do believe it is their mission for you, their guest, to have a wonderful experience. Come in, relax.. order a beer after breakfast! Why not?! Every visit is what you make it.. The Gulu's Breakfast Sammies are awesome.. Their teas are relaxing.. Decadent coffees, espresssssoooooooo!!! Zoom! I have only had their sweet Banana Chocolate Crepe, but I immediately thought "I should not get addicted to these" I like their sandwiches, but I love their wraps. Plus, the price includes a salad and chips. Right now, I am enjoying a Large Iced Andes Latte.. My server warned that there were three espressos in this bad larry. 16 ounces for four bux?! Sold. You won't find this Peppermint Mocha deliciousness alongside an awesome freakin' wrap at Starbucks. There are so many beverages on the menu that every one in your party will have their something special. Beer, Martinis, Mimosas!?! Imagine your living room with everything at hand.. Wine, Cheese, Apples to Apples and WiFi.. seriously. Go to the Gulu!!
(5)Joey L.
This is an awesome cafe/bar. It was packed and there were people studying, playing board games, having dinner, sipping their coffee, doing work and having a beer. I love their craft beer selection. I also tried the cheese board and it was awesome. Will definitely be back.
(4)GatesofDawn67 M.
I want to amend my review. I have since learn to brew my own espresso and I have gotten pickier. I no longer recommend the Gulu's espresso. See my older review for comments on atmosphere food and service.
(4)Leah N.
Favorite Spot in Salem. I'm only giving it 4 stars because the service is a little slow. The servers are great, but last call 12:45. They take your drinks away at 12:53 (at least that was when mine was taken away.) If it's open until 1, why don't I have until 1 to finish my drink? I don't like having to slam a beer when I get one for last call... ? They do get a little snappy towards bar close as well. I went here for my birthday with a bunch of friends from MN, and we all had a great time. Love the environment, super fun vibe. Just wish the town would extend bar close an hour.. (which is not their fault, although I stand by they could let you have until 1 to finish your drink)
(4)William M.
One of my favorite laid-back places to grab a beer in Salem. It's somewhat of a mix of coffee lounge, sandwich bar, craft beer fest. They're known for their crêpes and ever-changing eclectic and tasteful beer selection. The sandwiches and other foods are consistently tasty, but beware of the dijon mustard. I'm not sure if it's homemade, but it's wicked spicy! Shoots a zinger up my nose and tears up my eyes while overwhelming some bites of my otherwise delicious sandwich. There's wifi, board games, and open mic. night where you can see the odd and creative folks Salem attracts. Some are really good, some are terrible and loud. There are poetry nights, and special events such as independent film showings. The staff is typically hipster, experienced, and seems to turnover almost as often as the beer selection.
(4)Molly O.
Order the BEC on ciabatta toast breakfast sandwich! And the smoothies! I can't say enough good things about the breakfast sandwich. Somehow hearty, yet light, flavorful, and hit the spot for a lazy morning. The wildberry smoothie tasted exactly like black raspberry ice cream and it was dairy free!
(4)Michael C.
One of the tastiest crepes I've ever had. Great menu too!
(4)Jay W.
Great coffee and eclectic decor. The only downside is the customers seemed angry and on edge
(4)Leah O.
This restaurant is definitely my favorite place in town. Not only does it have amazing food and very friendly service, but the beer list is fantastic! And there's always art made by local artists on the walls. Musicians regularly come and perform at the cafe, and the entertainment is usually pretty good. If you have never been to Gulu Gulu, be advised that it is not a place for someone who's in a rush. I go to Gulu Gulu to hang out and drink good beer, so it never bothers me, but sometimes you have to wait a bit for your food.
(5)Thomas N.
This is likely my favorite spot in Salem. The beer selection is incredible and the coffee is outstanding. The service is always exceptional and friendly. Performances are varied and more interesting than most places and there's always a new art show on the walls. The cherry on the top is NO TVs... thank the gods. From their website, it seems that the lack of TVs is intentional to create a more social atmosphere or something to that effect. I like it. It's got relaxed, friendly feel. My only request would be more vegan food, though they do try.
(5)Christina L.
A great place to chill with cool people, have a drink, and something really tasty to eat. Definitely a place to revisit.
(4)Kristine A.
I can't believe in all my years of going to Salem I didn't know this place existed. I am thankful to my friend for moving there & showing me this place. It is so adorable & very down to earth, artsyish & fun. It has a decent size menu & veggie options which is super important for me. I am going to have to make sure to I get here every time I hit up Salem. It's pretty busy like all the time so be prepared for that.
(4)Jennifer T.
Don't understand the great reviews. Trendy spot but so so food and terrible service. Took forever to get the crepe and panini we ordered (not during a busy time). Never got refills on water or iced tea. Food lukewarm when finally delivered.
(2)Lana G.
Stopped by on a whim on Friday, when my mother and I were visiting the Peabody Essex Museum and wanted a light lunch. Food menu and potion sizes were perfect! Great vegetarian options, make your own crepes, creative salads, and great cafe drinks! Everything you could want for a healthy, light lunch or snack. I almost wish I lived closer so that I could return to the mismatched chairs, funky art, game shelf and wonderful wait staff. I will definitely return next time I am in Salem. As one who lives in Somerville, I love the hipster-feel and I think that's a wonderful characteristic of this place that sets it apart from mediocre options in the area.
(5)Paul A.
Terrific beer selection and different menu. Had the smoked turkey, BLT Pannini. Tasted okay, not spectacular. Asked for extra mayo. Service slow and cafe not as busy as usual. Thus the 3 stars. Would go back. Hostess was friendly , cooperative and nice.
(3)Johnathon B.
One of the most hyped-up businesses in Salem. I'll give it to them...location is extremely important for this restaurant. With its city-central base of operations, it's hard to ignore. No bones about it, they have a ton of beers to choose from. The food on the other hand...meh. I had a Caesar Wrap and it was pretty disappointing. (What tasted like) Store-bought, vinaigrette-style dressing, mixed greens (mostly spinach), and uninspiring cheese on a wheat tortilla. The soup of the day was alright, but lukewarm. I've tried their crepes...they always turn out limp and bland. The environment is quaint, but surely not enough to make up for the not-so-great food. TIP: Go next door to Flying Saucer Pizza. It's owned by the same people, so generally they have similar beer choices, the daily specials are delicious, the ambience is great (old sci-fi movies and great music), and it's way more affordable.
(2)Joe M.
A great place to hang out. Great food I love the creeps. The utepononik is a great warm weather meaty snack.
(5)Jamie S.
Great beer and awesome fresh great eats! My husband and I came here and, delicious!!!! Definitely hope to go again soon! I need to look up Parkin for my next visit.
(4)Abbie L.
Great crepes and cheese plate... mmm... good vibe
(4)Fiona I.
We got the red peppers and artichokes tapenade with flatbread as appetizer. It tasted decent until.... We found hair on it!!!It's a shame that such a cute cafe would have such a terrible hygiene. The menu is interesting and has many choices, but the lack of cleanliness is disappointing. The server didn't seem surprised when I showed her the hair inside the tapenade. On top of that, she didn't even bother to apologize for what had happened. Extremely disappointed!!!
(1)Vivian C.
Located directly behind the "Bewitched" statue, the Gulu Gulu Cafe is a nice spot to stop for a snack. If you want to sit outside, let the staff know, but if you want to sit inside, just go ahead and find yourself a seat! A ton of games are available for the borrowing, and you're not hurried along here. It is a nice place to hang out. The high ceiling may have helped the noise to disperse a touch. The $8.00 Strawberry & Nutella Crepe arrived hot and yummy to the table, while the $2 orange cream soda was served in a chilled bottle along with a glass of ice to pour it into. Two individual bathrooms are available per gender, and cute fishes decorated the hallway. When leaving, be careful of the single low lying step!
(4)Eunice R.
I spent my 21st birthday here and it was all that I could have hoped for! Great beer selection, wonderful vibe, and fairly priced. I had their beer sampler and thought that was a great deal. Didn't get to try out their food, but definitely plan on it!
(5)Jody G.
Very cute sandwich shop in walking distance from the Salem Witch Museum. Everything is nice and fresh.... and there is a lot to choose from: crepes, salads, sandwiches, soups..... I had a tuna salad wrap. The tuna was high quality white Albacore with just the right amount of chopped celery and mayo. There was a choice of a white, whole wheat, spinach, or tomato wrap. I chose the whole wheat and it was nice and fresh. The only negative is that there was a lot of lettuce and not enough tomatoes or onions on my sandwich. The lettuce even overpowered the tuna salad a bit. The sandwich was served with a teeny-tiny bit of green salad and some kettle style potato chips. My vote would be to do away with the little bit of salad (since there was so much lettuce in the wrap) and perhaps put a nice pickle on the plate in its place.
(3)Yolanda C.
Having some Chocolate Banana Crepes with Strawberry and powdered sugar. This place has one of the best crepes north of Boston. I'm a huge crepe fan and this place is always my go to crepe place. It is located right in the heart of Salem. A great place to have lunch after walking around and touring Salem. It does get super busy but the wait really isnt that bad. I've been coming here for years and I think the longest I had to wait was maybe 15mins tops. If anyone has relatives or visitors coming into town and are showing them around Salem, don't forget to stop in here.
(5)Rachel D.
Gulu Gulu is as good as Salem gets, and if you're in Salem you're in for a treat - especially if you're a hipster. Gulu Gulu is hipster haven, among many other things. It's got delicious coffee, great sandwiches and snacks, and many little nooks to sit and reach a book or update your blog. The owners are very friendly too, and the wait-staff definitely reflects the aesthetic feel Gulu Gulu set out to achieve. If you're a fan of the Otherside in Boston then Gulu Gulu will win you over.
(4)Nick B.
This used to be my favorite place to go and hang out. Unfortunately I moved out of Salem. I'm not normally a coffee drinker but they do have some really good coffee. The beer list is always changing which is cool. They offer some really good ones. The food here is great. My favorite used to be a panini called the Gruen Muenster. Black forest ham, Muenster cheese, banana peppers and greens. Food can take a while to come out, even if the place is dead, so make sure you have a good amount of time to sit if your planning on eating here.
(5)Brita F.
Outstanding service, Their bruschetta is the best -- They have board games here?! --Haiku review
(5)Thumper B.
Really wanted to like this place because the atmosphere was lovely and the jazz performance was very enjoyable that night. Here's where they need to improve 1) Drink service is super slow. Why does it take 20 mins to get a glass of beer? Something is not working at the bar smoothly. And when we order 2 beers, why does it come out 1 beer at a time to the table? 2) Crepe - So I was really looking forward to the mushroom and (cheese) crepe. So disappointed to find out someone didn't salt the veggies (mushrooms) before putting them in the crepe, making the crepe completely bland. That's cooking 101. Always season the ingredients first. 3) Sausage platter thing my boyfriend ordered...the temperature was weird. It wasn't warm or cold...it was half cold...it just didn't work. It felt off. We liked the pickled onion. That was good. Overall a B- experience for us. I may go back for drinks and music but not for the food.
(3)Gino R.
Food was okay but make sure you have a change of clothes in your cat otherwise all your clothes are gonna be smelling like food.
(3)ginger B.
Each time i go to gu lu if u are seated alone the girls ignore u forever and then never check in with you. If im with friends or my husband its the opposite. Three of my friends and myself have found non food items in our food. Hair. Plastic. Etc and their crepes are minuscule. Fun atmosphere but bad service and not enough food on plate for price
(1)Jennifer E.
For a sandwich shop, this place is top notch. The sandwiches are tasty, hearty, and made with love. The have lots of different kinds to choose from and come with crunchy potato chips and greens. The breakfast section of the menu sounds killer so I'm excited to try it sometime in the future when I'm back in Salem. One of the best parts of the menu is the beverages. They have a large selection of craft sodas, teas, coffee and espresso, and best of all: One hell of a beer selection! They have an extensive draft selection, and you can taste a few of them with a flight. Gulu rocks, and I can see why the reviews are so great. It's casual, fun, and the food is so so good. It's much larger on the inside than I would have thought, but has a cozy feel to it. It's another one of the hot spots in Salem that is also a nice relief from the hordes of tourists and ghost hunters. Slip in, grab a sammy and a brew, and enjoy a friendly chat with one of the cool-as-cucumber staff.
(5)Nate Y.
Came here for breakfast/brunch and was happy I did. With high ceilings physically it's a fairly large space, but with the varied laid back seating and coffee shop vibe it felt real comfortable. They Serve a variety of coffee/teas and sandwiches, but their specialty are the variety of crepes. They have them as breakfast, sweet, and savory. I had the Traditional crepe with bacon, egg, and cheese. Good size, and was tasty, but for me could have a little more filling. My sister had the veggie crepe and it was packed full, oozing with goat cheese. She enjoyed it immensely. My sisters and I also shared the Nutella and banana crepe. LOVED IT. It's possible to hangout here all day into the evening, with a cabinet full of board games, serving wine and beer, and good music playing in the background. Too bad I don't live in Salem :( P.S. If you like Boston terriers and/or pugs then you can buy one for their t-shirts.
(4)John R.
Nice little spot here. Has that laid back, hipster type vibe where you know you could bring in a laptop or some music and hang out for hours. Good food too! We each had a wrap and both were delicious and came with some chips. Just moved to the area and will definitely be back!
(4)Erin B.
If there were a place like this in Somerville, there would be lines of hipsters out the door all the time. It's not a place that was created to be hipster, it's just that hipsters can't help but love it. Anyway, I'm happy that it's in Salem, where hipsters and having good taste and beer are minorities. More room for me when I'm in between classes and want a little treat! There are many things that Gulu does well, but most appreciated are the friendly and knowledgeable service, the tasty crepes, the broad beer selection, and the mostly reasonable prices (relative to Boston area). And they have free Wi-Fi with some comfy chairs and couches, and outlets at the bar! I've never had a bad experience here!
(5)Marina S.
The panini's were delicious- perfectly crispy and flavorful, but my drink was not so good; tasted like what I imagine gasoline would taste like. The name of it was "Starry Night" and it has absinthe and all kinds of chocolate goodness on it but unfortunately that was a fail. Though the idea of their artsy theme is great, the flavor should definitely outshine the name of the cocktail. BUT I would give this place another shot next time im in Salem because I did not try the other cocktails.
(3)Rachel B.
My husband played a live show here and it was one of my favorite New England venues!! Tasty food, huge selection of drinks, full of noise and music. My kind of place. :) I recommend the crepes (tasted both the lemon and banana nutella), cheese and meat plate, also the panini... oh, and the HOT CHOCOLATE. Mmm... it was like one half whip, one half cocoa. So wonderful on a cold winter night. Really nice ambiance and a great place to visit if you're a tourist or just checking out Salem for a short while.
(5)Michael C.
Beerrr
(4)Katherine H.
Love.
(5)Jacquee P.
This is a really lovely place to spend time with a friend and share a meal after a movie. We had the antipasto salad and the Barthelona panini. The ambiance is really inviting and warm. The Monday night we were there everyone was playing board games and eating snacks.
(5)Kate B.
I'm baffled by the fact that this place has four stars. When we arrived, there was plenty of seating available, but we were told it would be a 45-minute wait before we could order food because the kitchen was overworked. Oh, hello, YOU'RE A RESTAURANT. Get your shiz together. We sat anyway, & the server changed her tune, telling us we could go ahead & order - it was like they'd been trying to convince us not to eat there... My friends both ordered the bagels & lox; they were told the bagel selection was very limited. One friend listed four types of bagels she preferred, & asked the server to let her know if none was available. The server, who never reported back, served her a poppyseed bagel, which was not on that list. And neither of them were given cream cheese! WITH LOX & BAGELS! When they asked, the server sounded shocked: "You want cream cheese?" Well, yes, this is a bagel, & we are Jewish. I asked the server for her opinion on two dishes, & ordered the JackMac & Cheese, which she recommended. She returned in 10 minutes to tell me it wasn't available. Just like the bagels, I guess. I ordered a tomato, basil, mozzarella panini instead, thinking it would be tasty no matter what. But... it wasn't a panini. Basically, it was the aforementioned ingredients on bread so toasty it bordered on inedible. It took 20 minutes to get out check. Luckily, we paid in cash. Who knows how long it would've taken to get a credit card back?! No, thanks, Gulu-Gulu. You may try to pass yourself off as a quirky hipster cafe, but if the service & food don't cut it, you can't fool me twice. ___ Addendum: Gulu-Gulu's General manager contacted me via Yelp to apologize for my negative experience. Good customer service, even in the aftermath, goes a long way! I'd now be happy to give Gulu-Gulu the benefit of the doubt on a return visit to Salem. Thanks for reaching out, Laura!
(2)Tanya M.
nice cafe, mellow vibe... great service, good beer menu..
(4)Mallory S.
I have a soft spot for the Gulu. So many great beers on tap and the service is great. I wanted to highlight the service again because the waiter/bartender went out of his way to help us find an additional chair and get our order in before the kitchen closed on a Friday night. My warning still stands: If you are going to the Gulu Fri/Sat night and are staying for the entertainment (starts at 9pm) be warned it may not be your style. Sometimes it is funky and unique is a good way and sometimes it is awful. Never a dull moment!
(4)Anthony M.
Great beer selection, and an eclectic menu. Ambiance is super laid back, and it definetly comes across that this place is based on a Prague cafe. You can hit GG for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or just some snacks and brews and always have a great experience. Comforting and relaxing are two words I would use to describe the Gulu Gulu Cafe.
(5)Zoe S.
We arrived here on an early weekend morning after a red eye flight from SF. The first two places on our list were boarded up. We were promptly seated and had hot coffee in front of us within seconds. I ordered a crepe that I honestly don't remember what was in it. When it arrived I thought I mistakenly ordered a burrito. The crepe was as thick as a flour tortilla and there was no sauce. There was a slice of orange though. That was the driest thickest crepe I ever had. We never saw our waitress again nor did our coffee cups ever get filled again. It took forever to get our check. I'm glad we were only visiting. We should have just went to Dunkin Donuts,there is one on every block.
(1)Amanda C.
Gulu Gulu Cafe is one of those great spots to stop and rest your feet when you are having a touristy day in Salem. I will say, I did judge the book by its cover in a positive way because who doesn't like french bulldog mascots? There is a wide variety of craft beers on tap. No Bud, Coors or Miller products are to be seen anywhere. I always think highly of an establishment when they go the extra mile to provide local spirits. The food looked great on the menu. I was not hungry at the time, but I did enjoy a piece of pumpkin bread. 2 thick, warm slices of bread plus a coffee = a great afternoon treat. Next time I am back in Salem, I will be in for dinner!
(4)Joe P.
The greatest café on earth! I figured when they went to Salem from Lynn and got super busy all the time they would jack up their prices and give you less food, which is only kind of true. But still the best there is! Every time I've gone here I'll try something different and I have yet to be let down. Their beer selection is also a beer snobs wet dream.
(5)Less H.
I have to say I've been to the Gulu Gulu quite a few times since my last review. They have cleaned which is a plus and I've had a chance to sample their beer offering. On the coffee side of life, you are missing out on a perfect Americano if you don't get one here. IF you drink coffee the Gulu Gulu Americano is a must have beverage. It's that good. It is the Americano I judge all others by. Last weekend I bellied up to the bar and chatted with a friend for hours whilst we sipped some great beers. So now I have a new watering hole and a place to get caffeinated. The food here is good too. I have not been disappointed in anything I've gotten here. I am still in love with the turkey and arugula sandwich and all the stuffed crepes I've ordered. If you don't like hipsters, Gulu Gulu is not for you. If you are an aging hipster who likes good beer and coffee Gulu Gulu is for you. (After my last review, the owner emailed me and said they were going to clean, and they did, the cobwebs are gone. I think its great when a business owner deals directly with customers and then ACTUALLY follows up on what they say they will do. Gulu Gulu has won my undying love for doing as they say they will, that and having a great menu and delicious beverages.)
(5)Paloma M.
Cute cafe in historic Salem. We sat outside and was really pleasant! Turkey sandwich was great and my coffee was also pretty good! I really enjoyed it!
(4)John C.
Great service. It is a good after work for a snack and a couple beers. Menu is limited but delightful.
(4)Morgan D.
Perfection. I am a avid lover of cafes and sulk regularly about the lack of great cafes in my area. I love Starbucks, but that. does. not. count! Let me preface by saying, I visited the town of Salem last summer and feel in love. I pretty much have a passionate love affair with all of New England. I truly think it's so incredible and maybe I'm a little sad I didn't grow up there....anyyyywho....I love this town and think it's adorable so imagine my surprise when my friend took us to a cafe there. This place was great!! We all ordered lattes (which come in great cutesy mugs), a sandwich platter, and wow, one of the most amazing dessert crepes. It was raining on the day we went and the cafe was the perfect place to be: high ceilings, huge floor to ceiling windows, large chalkboards with all their food/beverage items listed, amazing servers. If I lived here, I would be a regular. Another plus, turns into a bar at night (more of an intellectual bar, per se)
(5)Beverly H.
We came in for lunch at about 1:30 on Sunday. We were greeted and seated right away, were given menus and had our order taken in a timely fashion... and then ignored for half an hour. Drinks appeared after fifteen minutes, then nothing. When we finally flagged down a waitress (not ours, who had been doing her best to stay clear), we were told that "Right after you ordered so did everybody else," which is not actually a valid excuse. We noticed that people who were ordering later were told that the kitchen was backed up and that there would be a thirty-minute wait for cooked food, and most people were fine with that, as we would have been had anyone said anything. It dosn't take much effort to drop by a table, apologize for the delay, explain about the kitchen, and see if anyone would like a refill on drinks. Avoiding eye contact for half an hour isn't a professional way to act. Having said that however, when the food arrived it was fantastic, as always. The kitchen may be slow, but they know what they're doing. Now if someone could explain a few things to the staff.
(4)Smooth D.
The crepes were perfect! The service was okay, the first waitress neglected us completely, so another waitress helped us out. This seems to be a theme even at other tables. I expected the place to be nice and warm and toasty since it was so cold out but my hands never warmed up, even after running them under hot water in the bathroom. Very cute decor. Good food. Better service and warmer temp would have made the place perfect!
(3)Jennifer S.
Really cool atmosphere, and different selections. Had a very nice breakfast crepe, servers were very friendly, a little slow, but that did not take away from the experience. I would definitely return.
(4)Joey J.
Easily the best place to grab a bite in Salem - and excellent proof that we made the right decision when moving to the area. Their beer menu is exceptional, the atmosphere warm and welcoming, and even their breakfast menu is remarkable. Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner - go to Gulu Gulu - you won't regret it.
(5)Karen A.
I'm not a drinker so I haven't tried the tons of beer there, but the sandwiches are good & the atmosphere is fun! You can eat outside if the weather is nice enough & it's close to many of the sights. I would definitely suggest this to anyone looking for a good lunch!!
(5)Derek G.
My experience here was horrible, it is literally the sole reason I made this account. People need to be warned. YOU WANT TO TALK ABOUT A PLACE FULL OF BIGOTS? Lets talk about Gulu cafe. The staff; from the moment I walked through the door I felt like I was nothing but a waste of their time. And that's when they're actually taking the time to help you. God forbid you have to flag someone in the waitstaff down for something, because its not answered with a,"I'll be right with you sir or may'em" instead your acknowledged with a lift of the chin and a "ya, I'll be right there". Now, I understand a place can have "regulars" or waitstaff can have friends but give me a break. If the one in particular, chubby guy with the mustache would have taken ten seconds of his time to do his job rather than hang with his friends or the "regulars" this review may have gotten another star or two. But give me a break. My experience was, "here are your drinks, did you look over the menu? No, ok ill give you another 15-20 minutes since you obviously cannot read very well. And I'll just go talk to my friends over here for a while with my back to you and ignore you until I feel like it." Checks in some time later and someone else had beat him to it. "Great so now I'm done with you for the evening, moving on. Talks to friends some more. Well there's my review, for the price you pay and the service you get. Don't bother leaving a tip. I think it's factored into the overpriced beer and food already anyways.its got to be. I had to leave my money and get out of there because there was no chance they were coming to get the check for at least an hour or two.
(1)Johnny P.
GREAT SPOT Went our first night in Salem and returned 2 more times (2x dinner once drinks) one of the best beer selections and pricing I've found Staff is friemndly, great vibe and we caught an awesome band there at night If your in Salem skip the tourist traps and go here!
(5)Jim M.
Pros: BEST beer selection in the state(on draft and in the bottle). I had a rare Czec beer that I've only seen in Prague. AND it was on draft!!! **** Also, really hip/cool atmosphere and cool waitstaff. Cons: the food is just so/so. I've had grilled sandwiches as well as choco-banana crepes and, while they were very fresh, were lacking flavor. Also, on a busy day, you'll wait a WHILE for your meal. I waited 45 minutes for said grilled sandwich once. Still, worth a trip to sip some suds and chill.
(3)Rachel M.
Food is ok, portions are relatively small, but whatever -- my waistline needs to be conditioned to eating smaller EVERYTHING. I like the board game selection, and the atmosphere is totally hipster. Service is awful, though. My boyfriend and I came here one rainy Friday and we waited 30 minutes to even be acknowledged at our self-seated table with menus. We were about to get up to leave when we were finally greeted by a not-so-friendly waitstaff who practically tossed us our menus. Won't be coming back here.
(2)renae T.
5 stars for a great night out! 3 stars (being generous) for food. We read the reviews, and we're ready for service issues and a wait. We ended up finding a seat immediately, and had prompt service. Pros: kale soup, service (though didn't know much about the beer selection, we didnt care) the vibe, the latte, the games, and the music! We were there for hours! Cons, the rest of the food...mushy fruit salad, cold panini, sausage app (cold...yuck), and the crepe. Re crepe: this tasted good, but anything drowned in nutella will taste pretty good. We are crepe people and make them often. The dough here was tough, chewy. They should be light, delicate, and thin. Bottom line, we would definately go back for the pros, and hope they just had an off dy on the food.
(4)Kevin D.
The perfect mid-town cafe. Good bandwidth from free wi-fi. Excellent house coffee - no need for fancy espresso drinks. Wonderful young people serving the tables with just the right amount of good cheer. None of that phony stuff. For those that work outside their offices and need a place to plug in, connect and have a drink & a snack, this place is for you. Thanks to DP for the tip.
(4)Camille R.
I'm so used to these places staffing obnoxious hipster kids, but maybe because Salem doesn't house many hipsters this spot lucked out. Everyone I've spoken to behind the counter has been really down to earth and friendly. A plethora of tea, coffee, and beer options and really yummy desserts. They play good music throughout the day and there's plenty of space to hang out and chill for the afternoon, or evening. Live music some nights, so keep an eye out for the chalkboard that lists upcoming shows. I've had some lunch foods here: bruschetta, mac and cheese, and a sandwich. They were just okay. But the desserts!! Did I tell you about the desserts??
(4)Rich T.
LOVED IT! Awesome place, and great sandwiches.
(5)Robbo O.
The food and coffee at Gulu are good - five star for what they are (it's a panini, fercrissakes!) - but I have a chip on my shoulder about their abandoning their spot in Lynn, which admittedly didn't do nearly the business they do in Salem, but made for a more peaceful experience for me, and I'm all about me...ME ME ME! It's also a downer for me that Gulu in Salem is almost always packed to the rafters, so as a frequent solo diner, I'll either be at the bar, which I dislike a lot, or on a sofa with a stranger (I can deal with that alright). It's not a very comfortable space when crowded: The acoustics are very loud and echoey, the bar seats are hard on my boney runner's ass, and the bar not deep enough to comfortably eat a meal, and it's pretty dark in there unless you score a seat by the window. The service people have always been fine, if a bit cursory because of the crowds they're juggling. All in all, it's a matter of wild success snatching the fifth star. I think the proprietors can live with that. Bottom line: On a Tuesday afternoon, when there is a tornado watch in effect, this is a great place to relax over crepes and lattes!
(4)Lucy S.
Love this place! The only downside is seating fills I past. Great list of beers-very wide selection. Come for the crepes they're amazing!
(4)Robert M.
This place is terrible. It has become very successful because it has become a mecca for local hipsters. The food is okay. The staff are the rudest people I have met in the planet.They had an open mic there one night and my friend was performing so I brought all my camera gear and set up. One of my friends asked me to bring a keyboard out to his car. whenI returned they told me I had to wait to get in. I informed that I had already been and that half my camera gear was in the restaurant already. the woman then started yelling at called another woman over who was apparently the manger who told me she was going to call the police on me. Eventually I was able to have a friend grab most of my camera gear. This place blows (pardon my language) but I have no other way expressing how much I hate this place. It's in incredible clicky trendy hipster atmosphere and staff is insufferable. If your a rich art student looking for a hipster hang out. Then this is the place for you. If not I would recommend finding another coffee shop in town. Like the Front Street Coffee shop. Their place might be small but their coffee is great and your treated like a person when you go there. p.s. Notice the Owners statement below trying to discredit my review, but if you scroll around you'll notice I'm not the only person on here that has had trouble with the staff. I am no way a trouble maker if you want better review treat your customers with respect.
(1)Susan R.
I was literally right there when Quinn E was turned away from the gay night, and when the DJ kicked us out of the table where we had spent WAY too long waiting for food/drinks and spent a LOT of cash. Admittedly, it was ridiculous and horrible, and I can understand Quinn's 3 star rating given the bad time had by all of our group. However, I have been back several times since and have to give it a 4. Why? Well... for starters, they have great cheese platters and the best beer menu I have seen outside of Boston... i mean... really really good beer. Also, they play movies on certain nights, have a monthly gay tea dance (never been, since I fear being rejected again from a Salem gay party), an array of DJs, live bands, probably an open mic night (though I would rather rip my own eardrums out than attend a rural open mic night) and are generally a cool place in the early evening hours to have beer, tea, cheese, paninis... etc etc. If i were a teen or a college kid up in Salem, this would be BY FAR the best hang out within a 20 mile radius, and for that, i have to give them 4 stars. Let me take you back and we can have a nice, normal, non-halloween time at Gulu Gulu. You will see that it's pretty cool... all things considered.
(4)Aubrey P.
An adorable and cozy spot. The second you walk in you feel at home. There are tables, couches and board games. I got an iced coffee which was great! And... COCONUT MANGO CHEESECAKE!! it was some of the best cheesecake I have ever had. It was two layers and you could actually taste both favors. Prices were great. Both for about 8$ They also have many yummy beers on tap and I have many a friends who rave about this place. Would go again. Also... A pug and boxer are the cafe's mascots. Can't beat that!!!
(5)jenna f.
Terrible customer service skills. I wrote to the owner and general manager regarding my concerns and neither one took the time to reply. Edit*** owner and manger responded after seeing this post. Listened to nothing I said and took word of a server that lied. Probably only contacted me because I left one star. If I could leave half a star I would.
(1)Su R.
Pretty amazing on many counts. large , so plenty of room to move around. the menu seems to keep getting better, and even included alcohol! coffee, tea, or booze, yes. it can be kinda loud at times, there was a group of girls in the middle of the place the other day that were obnoxiously chatting and laughing away. . there is often live music events here at night. Crepes=fab. I had the smores crepe with nutella instead of chocolate= drool. my friend loved the veggie wrap. oh and the creme brulee latte= yummmmmm
(4)Francesca G.
One of my new favorite places. Went here for breakfast and then for drinks at night during my stay in Salem. I loved the atmosphere and live music. The beer selections were amazing, coffee drinks were great, and food was equally as good.
(5)S L.
Went here a ton. Great place to escape the touristy crap Salem banks on. Really wish they had better bands play...some of the crap on a saturday night was unbearable to sit through. The beer is priced really well so when I'd go here (once a week) we'd get high percent beers and hang outside (the outside seating is the best part) to people watch. Veggie options were great, wish they changed up some of their stuff and served breakfast options all day.
(3)Jenn B.
Hipster vibe, varied selection beers and on a weekend morning nice bloody mary! The smoked salmon is deeeeelicious! Has a peppered rub. So good on a bagel with all the goods (onions, lettuce etc) on a Saturday morning after a one two many cocktails from the night before. Only down fall service can be a bit slow....
(4)Mindy L.
I think this place is tops! Went here because the last trip to Salem we made a mental note that we wanted to come back and give it a try. Couldn't resist heading up to the North Shore on a bright, beautiful and sunny Sunday! We ordered the Cheese & Meat Platter (choice of 8 different cheeses and 5 different meats). For only $9.00 you get your choice of three. We decided on the fresh mozz and herb & oil soaked brie and the genoa salami. The platter comes with fresh toasted ciabatta bread and they are not skimpy on the portions! We got 3 huge slices of mozz, an entire wedge of brie and a bunch of salami. It was delicious. For my lunch entree I decided on the "Istanbul" - fresh mozz, turkey, tomato and pesto. The plate comes not only with the largest panini I've ever seen, but also a side salad and a handful of Cape Cod potato chips. Mmm. Everything was so fresh and the portions were beyond generous. The vibe here is ecclectic - bright yellow walls, strange art, funky furniture. They also have board games you can play on those rainy days as well as live music.
(4)Courtney F.
We really enjoyed our visit to the Gulu Gulu Cafe while touring Salem. The atmosphere was laid back and the service was prompt. The best part was that they offered gluten-free pie. I got the apple pie and it was pretty close to the real thing. I would definitely go back if we lived in the area.
(4)Siervo J.
The food is definitely not good. I will never go back to this cafe. People should go to other places before saying that this place is good. totally disappointed!
(1)Amelia L.
Yummy and delish! The bloody Mary was SO good! I had a fantastic crepe with egg, cheese and bacon. I was sad that I was only able to go once!
(4)Christina A.
This place is very hipster with yummy sandwiches and a stellar selection of craft beers. They are the only place in the area that does crepes. They do dessert crepes and savory ones. My only complaint is that they need to serve ice cream with their dessert crepes. I got the s'more crepe and it was too much chocolate and marshmallow and felt like it was missing something. It's a nice place to go for a casual meal or drink. The music at night can be a little strange for my taste. They have open mic night on Wed. nights from 8-11. It can get really crowded that night and on Friday and Saturdays. Overall this place is good.
(4)Janet H.
Stopped by here during a visit to Salem. The place is casual and friendly. The waiter and waitress that helped us were very attentive and made sure we were happy with our drinks and food. I ordered the banana and nutella crepe and absolutely loved it.
(4)Chelsea L.
Next time you find yourself in Salem, do not miss getting brunch at Gulu Gulu cafe. It is a great, offbeat cafe that does not take itself too seriously. I'll be honest, normally anything that hints at hipster has me running for the hills. I blame Harvard Square for putting the bad taste in my mouth. What's great about the alternative atmosphere at Gulu Gulu is that at no point does it feel like they're trying to be different, they just are. You can tell that every member of the staff truly enjoys what they do. From the tattooed rock a billy waitresses to the long haired boys in skinny jeans every one is extremely friendly and helpful. When my waitress helped me select a local draft it was because she was passionate about the menu, not because it was her job. I have been twice now, once with my little sister who is easy to please, and once with my mother and her friend who is never pleased. Everyone loved it! Both times I had the bagel and lox (creature of habit) and it was wonderful. My sister had the cheese plate and judging by the samples I filched from her plate it was tasty as well. If you live in Boston, Gulu Gulu is worth making the trek for, even if you have no either reason to be in Salem. You will not be disappointed.
(5)James L.
Best beer selection in town. Staff is friendly and knows about beer. Almost always have hard to find beers, whether on tap or in bottles. And the Jack Max'n Cheese is the most delicious thing I've ever had.
(5)Amanda M.
they dont have a lot on the menu but the things they do have are are unique. I got some turkey panini sandwich with i think swiss cheese, dijon mustard, some greens, and an apple spread. The apple and mustard complimented each other so nicely. It gave my tastebuds a little dance with each bite. The turkey also had a good honey smoked flavor. Thier soda was from a local brewery called mercury. I got a diet cola which was a little sweeter then coke and had kind of a peppery taste. Very good. My boyfriend also got a steak chilli which was good too.They have outdoor seating as well.
(5)Casey F.
Great beer, friendly staff, good place to hang out.
(4)Danna D.
I really love this place. The food and drinks have always been good, and it is a great place to hang out for a bit. Everyone is very friendly, and the owner is awesome as well. I like the whole feel of the place, and the live music is pretty cool. I don't want to knock them down a start for this (and I wont) because it is an awesome place, but the service kind of sucks overall. I've been there quite a few times, and each time I have to flag down someone on the waitstaff to get a refill of coffee or anything else. I could literally sit there for 30 minutes after finishing my coffee without anyone checking up to see how I'm doing. Mind you, the place could be completely empty, and I still get that same exact service.
(5)Janna H.
Great atmosphere! That was definitely the best part for me. The servers were nice and the food choices are great. They even had fruit beers on tap! Very eclectic feel all around. The one major downside was that the entire back area where the bathrooms are located smelled really bad, as if they mopped the area with a sour mop. It's impossible to miss the smell, so I'm very disappointed that it was left that way.
(3)Travis S.
My wife and I were only in Salem for one night and still had two of our meals here. Great sandwiches, great beer selection, really nice staff, and a really cool vibe. If I lived anywhere nearby I would certainly be a regular. Fantastic spot.
(5)Serena H.
Honestly, I really enjoy the atmosphere of this place. Their coffee isn't bad and they have an admittedly impressive selection of beer. However I have never once, in the 6 or 7 times I've been forced to go there, received even an approximation of mediocre service. The waitresses are always nowhere to be found, the bill is always elusive (despite asking for it twice or thrice) and the food has never come out anything short of 30 minutes. It's a good thing the cafe serves mostly cold food because if they had to be responsible for hot food who knows what may happen. I cannot justify spending this much on a sandwich or a salad just to be treated like a burden to the wait staff. I'm puzzled at the excellent reviews this place enjoys. I won't be giving it anymore chances. Sorry!
(1)Chris S.
There was literally nothing on the menu for gluten intolerance for a Sunday brunch the one time I attempted to eat here. Bored hipsters is right.
(1)Jess M.
I came here to kill some time while visiting Salem. The patio was mobbed, so I grabbed a seat at the bar. I got a house coffee and spinach artichoke dip. They put way too much sugar in my coffee so I asked for a new cup. They gave me a new one, no problem. The coffee was solid and the dip was phenomenal. Your typical spinach artichoke dip has cheese in it, but this one was just spinach and artichoke with cumin. Best spinach artichoke dip I've ever had. The flatbread it was supposed to come with was just plain pita bread but it worked. The only downside to this place is that the bathrooms were not very clean. They reminded me of a club bathroom. So pee before you come here. But definitely go.
(4)Julia N.
I dont live close, I've been here twice and LOVED the sandwhiches I've ordered. The chicken salad wrap is so good, i wanna go there right now and get it I like the atmosphere, very cambridge or seattle :)
(5)Valerie N.
First time I went here, I got an awesome chicken sandwich, which was, again, awesome! However, best part was the side salad, whatever that red dressing is that they use is scrumptious! Another time I came by during the winter for hot apple cider, it was the best I've ever had. Just waiting for the cold weather to set in again so I can go back for another. The atmosphere is great, relaxed and friendly. The fact that they also display the works of local artists and let local bands play there makes it even better. A great little restaurant / bar, if you're visiting salem this place is definitely worth it!
(4)Benjamin L.
The Gulu (as we call it) is a uniquely awesome place. The atmosphere isn't that of a bar or cafe. I feel like it's more like a lounge. Solid beer selection and great tea and coffee to boot. The food and mixed drinks are also pretty tasty. The people who come here range from seniors to toddlers but mostly it seems to be young people in their 20s and 30s with their friends. It's my default place to meet up with pals in Salem!
(5)Crystal B.
Banana bread=A+. They are even nice enough to make me Iced Chai Lattes in the summer!
(4)Jonathan E.
neat little place. we had brunch here on Christmas Eve. the food was pretty good, but seemed to be in smaller quantities than i expected.
(3)Leesha Z.
I don't really understand why this place is so hyped up. I gave this place two chances and both were pretty disappointing. First visit was on a Wednesday night. I came up to the bar during a very busy open mic night. I asked if they could make me a French 75 and the guy behind the bad replied with "no we can't." I stared at him, pretty confused and asked why. He proceeded to tell me they don't have a full liquor license and all that. I said we were all set and left. I probably would've ordered a glass or wine or something if he hadn't been so rude. Second visit, it was pretty late and I was hungry and I knew they served food late so we decided to give it a second try. We came in on a Monday, got seated right away by a friendly waitress and looked over the menus. My boyfriend and I decided to order a few dessert "cocktails". The Milky Way one and the almond joy. Both sounded pretty good. For good, I got a turkey tomato and moz crepe. We got our drinks and wow way too sweet. We both could barely finish. In fact, I couldn't even get past drinking a quarter or it. Yuck. And way too overpriced for what it is. $10 each. I felt robbed. The crepe wasn't bad, but nothing special. Everything in it seemed fresh but it didn't blow my mind. There's plenty of other places in Salem is rather to than here. Sorry.
(2)Simon Z.
Love this place as much as I can love a hipster retreat. Gulu keeps me coming back for three things: Good beer Good Panini's Good coffee
(5)