The best restaurants in Salem

For more than 50 years, Brighton Hot Dog Shoppe has been serving up hot dogs, chili cheese dogs, kraut dogs, burgers, fries, and milkshakes, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the menu. It’s a handy Salem pick for a casual meal, especially when a hot dog sounds better than making a whole production of dinner.

From the Salem newsletter, November 2, 2026

Fast-food chain serving Mexican-inspired fare such as tacos, quesadillas & nachos.

Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.

Casual restaurant offering Mexican fare, including design-your-own burritos, tacos & bowls.

Fast-food chain serving Mexican-inspired fare such as tacos, quesadillas & nachos.

Mexican chain serving customizable dishes, such as burrito bowls, over the counter.

Basic regional chain with an extensive menu of specialty pizzas, subs, wings & calzones.

Counter-serve chain specializing in sub & club sandwiches, plus signature potato chips.

Enduring institution with American staples in old-school digs, plus happy hours & all-day breakfast.

Restaurant chain known for its buckets of fried chicken, plus combo meals & sides.

Fast-food burger chain serving sides such as chili & baked potatoes.

Well-known fast-food chain serving grilled burgers, fries & shakes.

Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.

Longtime Ohio chain featuring a signature submarine-style burger & other hefty sandwiches.

Longtime Ohio chain featuring a signature submarine-style burger & other hefty sandwiches.

A spacious room with Chinese dishes & sushi available from the menu or at the set-price buffet.

Intimate, brick-lined bistro & bar offering modern takes on American comfort food & craft cocktails.

Longtime Ohio chain featuring a signature submarine-style burger & other hefty sandwiches.

Longtime Ohio chain featuring a signature submarine-style burger & other hefty sandwiches.

Part cozy lounge, part serious beverage playground, The OG pairs 16 beers on tap, 250+ craft beers and ciders, and 150+ handpicked wines with elevated comfort bites and an easygoing vibe. Great for a low-key date night, catching up with friends, or snagging a bottle for the home bar.

From the Salem newsletter, October 9, 2026

For Salem folks, Cocca's Pizza is a Mahoning Valley tradition since 1982, turning out classic and creative pies (the Hot Honey with crispy pepperoni hits), plus famous footlong rolls, wings, and grinders. Great for weeknights or feeding a crowd with party trays and easy online ordering.

From the Salem newsletter, October 5, 2026

If you like it straightforward and tasty, Gezo's Pizza keeps the focus on classic pies that satisfy without the fuss, with plenty of toppings and that just-one-more-piece feeling locals swear by. A solid pick for game nights, lazy dinners, or feeding a hungry crew.

From the Salem newsletter, October 30, 2026

The Foundry is Salem’s food-and-barcade mashup where you can chase a high score between bites, then keep the night rolling. Or kick back at home with pickup, UberEats, or DoorDash bringing the fun to your door.

From the Salem newsletter, October 26, 2026

Sumo Steakhouse & Sushi nails the craving mix with crisp tempura, rolls from Rainbow to Godzilla, and hibachi favorites like New York strip or filet mignon. In the mood to keep it simple, the all-day bento and lunch combos make weekday meals easy, and online pickup keeps it local.

From the Salem newsletter, October 21, 2026

When you want a no-fuss, fresh-made bite, Horst Sandwich Co. nails it with stacked subs, hot soups and salads, breakfast sandwiches, and legit baked goods. It also doubles as a neighborhood deli with meats and cheeses by the pound, hand-dipped ice cream, and shelves of jams, pickles, and snacks.

From the Salem newsletter, October 19, 2026

Rancho Viejo is the local move for no-fuss Mexican favorites, with popular picks like melty Cheese Dip, Rice, and Chorri Queso. When the craving hits on a weeknight, it’s an easy win... you can even order online and be halfway to happy.

From the Salem newsletter, October 18, 2026

Carry-out chain featuring chicken wings, signature breadsticks & pizza tossed from housemade dough.

Delivery, carryout & dine-in chain offering a wide range of pizzas, plus a variety of other dishes & sides.

Popular delivery, carry-out & dine-in chain known for pizza, wings & pasta, plus sides & desserts.

Pizza take-out & delivery chain offering classic & specialty pizzas, plus wings, sides & desserts.

Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.

Casual restaurant offering Mexican fare, including design-your-own burritos, tacos & bowls.

Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.

Fast-food chain serving Mexican-inspired fare such as tacos, quesadillas & nachos.

New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.

When the craving hits, Shinano Sushi Bar & Japanese Cuisine keeps it simple and solid with sushi and sashimi, comforting noodle bowls, and teriyaki favorites. The vibe is relaxed, the menus are straightforward, and yes, they’ll deliver when couch night wins.

From the Salem newsletter, September 28, 2026

Marotta's has that Cleveland Heights comfort baked into pizza and regional Italian plates, plus an all-Italian wine list stacked with boutique finds the staff actually knows by heart. It’s the sort of cozy, quietly special spot you suggest when you want dinner to feel easy and a little celebratory.

From the Cleveland newsletter, October 17, 2026

Browns Corner Restaurant is that low-key spot for a satisfying morning plate, with a diverse breakfast menu, signature dishes made with care, and easy online ordering for delivery or takeout, perfect for those days you want comfort without the sink full of dishes.

From the Cleveland newsletter, September 21, 2026

Counter-service chain offering a range of Philly-style cheesesteaks, loaded fries & lemonades.

La Pecora Pizzabar turns out wood-fired pies using 48-hour fermented dough and San Marzano tomatoes, with toppings like charred cup pepperoni or an Athena combo that actually works. Learned from pizzaioli in Napoli’s Spanish Quarters, the crust hits that chewy-smoky sweet spot locals will happily argue about.

From the Lorain newsletter, September 11, 2026

Mr. Hero has been Ohio's crave magnet for 61 years, serving the one and only Romanburger, that Hot Buttered Cheesesteak, and a solid Chicken Philly, plus Waffledoodles and Buds. When your Youngstown appetite gets loud, this place answers with big, memorable flavor.

From the Youngstown newsletter, September 10, 2026

If you like your taverns unpretentious and time-tested, Academy Tavern delivers that classic Cleveland vibe with Food & Liquor since 1939. Think solid bar grub, a friendly crew, and sleeper hits like Thai wings. It’s the kind of spot you end up calling your regular.

From the Youngstown newsletter, September 17, 2026

Best Gyros turns out over 20 gyro varieties in four sizes, plus addictive fresh cut fries with all the toppings. If you're not in a pita mood, their corned beef, subs, burgers, wraps and salads hold their own, and they cater when the whole crew is hungry.

From the Youngstown newsletter, September 9, 2026

The Last Page does that modern American thing with real personality, mixing classics and global flavors, plus cocktails that arrive with a little theater. Think Wagyu Tallow Fries, 'Ghost' dry rub wings, Bone-In Iberico Pork Schnitzel, and a brunch that actually earns a reservation.

From the Cleveland newsletter, September 26, 2026

SASA helped introduce izakaya to Cleveland, pairing pristine sushi and shareable small plates with an extensive sake lineup, craft beers, and handcrafted cocktails. When you want a night that feels polished yet relaxed, this spot nails it and keeps the conversation going.

From the Youngstown newsletter, September 13, 2026

Mister Brisket, Inc. has been slicing happiness since 1974, offering custom-cut USDA Prime and Wagyu plus deli champions like corned beef, pastrami, and beef salami. They deliver locally or ship nationwide, and the hot-food counter keeps lunch decisions easy...

From the Youngstown newsletter, September 11, 2026

Whether you're keeping kosher or just chasing a legit dairy pie, Issi's Place does made-to-order pizzas, house-baked pita, and a surprisingly fun lineup of dairy and vegetarian bites, even sushi. They’ve also added Impossible options, plus catering for when your crew shows up hungry.

From the Youngstown newsletter, September 27, 2026

When lunch needs a boost, Zaza Subs & Salads makes sandwiches, salads, and subs fresh daily, plus smoothies, soup, nachos, and the World Famous ZaZa Dogs. Takeout and delivery keep it easy, and creamy milkshakes, savory popcorn, and indulgent desserts make it feel like a tiny celebration.

From the Salem newsletter, October 8, 2026

Gianna Vias Restaurant & Bar serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Italian-inspired favorites in a casual neighborhood setting, with craft beers on tap for good measure. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza or a leisurely meal, it’s a handy reminder that dinner plans don’t have to be complicated.

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, October 29, 2026

Full-service chain bar & grill providing hearty American eats in an informal setting.

Nobby's Pizzeria keeps its pies rooted in craft, with fresh, hand-tossed dough, homemade sauce, and a signature provolone blend with a subtle smokiness. It’s a family-owned Pittsburgh staple for thin-crust pizza, plus wings and hoagies when the table can’t agree on just one thing.

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, October 31, 2026

Silk Road Gourmet Chinese Restaurant has been feeding South Hills since 1996 with legit Chinese favorites plus a full sushi and sashimi lineup, hibachi theatrics, and a proper bar. Bonus for Mt. Lebanon folks, they deliver, and the wine list is curated by wine critic Bruce May, a Pittsburgh Magazine writer.

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, September 3, 2026

Armstrong's is that easygoing Italian spot you recommend when everyone’s hungry and indecisive, serving hearty plates of homemade lasagna and creamy penne alla vodka that actually tastes like something. Portions are generous, the vibe is cozy, and yes, save room for the lemon coconut cake.

From the Pittsburgh newsletter, November 2, 2026

The Other Place is the dependable spot for made-from-scratch comfort, turning out specialty pizzas alongside calzones, hoagies, gyros, pasta, pierogies and wings with dry rub flavors, plus easy pickup, delivery and catering. When dinner indecision hits in Mount Lebanon, order once, feed everyone...

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, October 5, 2026

Pamela's P & G Diner has been doing Pittsburgh proud since 1980 with those signature crêpe-hotcakes and American faves served in a vintage-style vibe. When a cozy, old-school breakfast calls, hit Strip, Shadyside, Mt. Lebanon, or Oakland and see why it even earned a Best of the Burgh nod.

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, October 4, 2026

Signature pancakes & other American breakfast classics all day in a casual setting.

Some nights you want prime rib, others a build-your-own calzone or tacos, and The Garden Restaurant nails all of it with pizza, wings in serious sauces, big salads with fries, and a solid draft list. Relaxed vibe, friendly bar, exactly the kind of spot you adopt as your regular.

From the Bethel Park newsletter, September 10, 2026

Relaxed shop serving hot dogs, subs, sausage sandwiches, steaks and other sandwiches.

Since 1989, Bellisario's Pizza Palace has been turning out fresh, Italian-style pies alongside creative crowd-pleasers like Butcher Block, Pierogie, and Buffalo Chicken. Calzones and house-baked rolls round things out, so when the group chat splits, everyone still ends up happy.

From the Allegheny County newsletter, October 25, 2026

Conti’s Pizzeria & Pit keeps it classic with fresh, heritage-inspired pies, hearty hoagies, and pastas, plus fun twists like Apizza Spicy with Ezzo pepperoni and a drizzle of hot honey.

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, September 19, 2026

Self Chef brings Japanese specialties to Pittsburgh, with fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables at the heart of its menu. If you’re in the mood for sushi with clean, straightforward flavors and a relaxed dining experience, it’s a spot worth keeping in mind.

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, October 30, 2026

Counter-serve chain offering Detroit-style pizza with flavored crusts, plus wings & subs.

Iovino's Neighborhood Brasserie leans into elevated comfort food and Chef Jeff Iovino’s local touch, plus a sushi menu and a custom-designed bar pouring seven rotating craft beers and four wines on tap. It’s the kind of spot you bring friends to, then pretend you discovered first.

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, September 29, 2026

Mad Mex South Hills serves made-to-order Mexican classics in an upbeat, modern setting, with bold Cal-Mex flavors and a laid-back vibe that make it an easy pick for tacos, burritos, or a casual meal with friends.

Whether you’re craving classic Chinese comfort or a couple sushi rolls, Osaka | Chinese keeps it easy with fast, fresh takeout, daily lunch specials, and a dinner menu big enough to satisfy the whole group. Order online when you don't feel like cooking, then enjoy couch-based fine dining.

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, September 27, 2026

Badamo’s Pizza - Dormont keeps it delightfully un-fancy, serving classic New York-style pies plus hoagies and calzones that make weekday dinners way easier. It’s a dependable go-to for locals when you want something satisfying, quick, and actually tasty without turning dinner into a whole production.

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, October 17, 2026

Whether you need a no-brainer breakfast after soccer drop-off or a late-night pie craving, Eat'n Park in Dormont keeps it simple with the salad bar, Superburger, seasonal pies, and those iconic Smiley Cookies. Easy online ordering, pickup, and delivery make it a weeknight lifesaver.

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, October 19, 2026

Casual diner chain dishing up classic American comfort fare, including all-day breakfast favorites.

Craving comfort that tastes like Sunday at Nonna's? De Blasio's Restaurant is that family-owned, old-school spot locals whisper about, with classic Italian plates, generous family-style takeout, and the kind of gracious service that makes you linger over bread and wine long after the last bite.

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, September 14, 2026

New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.

Counter-serve bakery/cafe chain serving sandwiches, salads & more, known for its bread & free WiFi.

When you want breakfast to be a little extra, Waffles, INCaffeinated, Upper St. Clair stacks scratch-made waffles with wild toppings, plus legit omelets and custom sandwiches. Gluten-free, vegan, and low-carb folks are covered, and yes, there are custom coffees, cocktails, and craft beers.

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, October 25, 2026

Scoglio's USC serves the kind of Northern Italian comfort that makes weeknights feel special, with pasta, fresh seafood, and a wine list worthy of a second pour in a cozy room built on family tradition. Perfect for a low-key date night or catching up with neighbors.

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, October 10, 2026

Molly's Pizza and Chicken is that trusty Dormont neighbor for weeknights when you want saucy pies, hefty hoagies, and legit broasted chicken that stays juicy. Easy delivery or quick carryout keeps dinner painless, and the menu hits that no-fuss, tastes-like-home sweet spot.

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, October 23, 2026

When dinner needs zero fuss or the Steelers kickoff is five minutes away, The Honey Baked Ham Company covers you with ready-to-serve smoked hams, turkeys, roasts, classic sides and desserts. Also a solid sandwich stop when you just want a quick, reliable lunch.

From the Bethel Park newsletter, September 11, 2026

Counter-service chain offering a range of Philly-style cheesesteaks, loaded fries & lemonades.

Seafood dishes, a raw bar & happy-hour martinis are on offer at this stylish, upmarket chain.

Bistro 19 pairs seasonal New American dishes and signature favorites with craft cocktails and an extensive wine list, making it a lovely pick for brunch, dinner, or a just-because drink at the bar. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a relaxed but polished feel give it plenty of neighborhood charm.

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, October 26, 2026

Caliente Pizza & Drafthouse is that easygoing spot locals lean on for crispy pies, hearty burgers and subs, and all the familiar apps, with a full bar and a lineup of craft brews that make lingering dangerously easy. Perfect when you want solid comfort food and a beer without overthinking it.

From the Plum newsletter, September 12, 2026

Poke Sushi keeps it low-key while channeling Tokyo fish market craft into pristine, tradition-rooted bites that actually taste like someone cares. Swing by when weeknight dinner needs to feel special or let their takeout bag be the hero of your couch-and-Netflix plan.

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, October 9, 2026

Colorful restaurant (part of a chain) dishing up customizable tacos alongside nachos and other Mexican eats.

Informal Mexican restaurant offering staples like tacos & burritos plus tequilas in a roomy setting.

Eat'n Park is the dependable South Hills diner for breakfast, a legit Superburger, and those iconic Smiley Cookies that somehow disappear on the drive home. Seasonal pies, a classic salad bar, and easy takeout or delivery keep weeknights simple, and their Caring for Kids campaign backs up the good-neighbor vibe.

From the Pittsburgh newsletter, September 6, 2026

Upscale-casual Italian chain serving pasta, grilled dishes, pizza & cocktails amid Roman-ruin decor.

Crust! Café and Pizzeria nails the Pittsburgh comfort trifecta with hand-tossed pies built on freshly fermented dough, California tomatoes, and Wisconsin cheese, plus wings and oven-baked hoagies.

From the Pittsburgh newsletter, October 16, 2026

Fast-food chain serving chicken sandwiches & nuggets along with salads & sides.

Whether you want scratch-made comfort food, seasonal features like Bourbon Month, or a solid cocktail by the fireplace, Houlihan's nails that friendly Mt. Lebanon vibe. It’s a reliable neighborhood choice for weeknight burgers, fresh salads, and the occasional live music when you need an easy win.

From the Penn Hills newsletter, September 9, 2026

Outpost of a local pizzeria chain offering pizzas, hoagies, calzones & other Italian staples.

No-frills eatery serving pies with traditional or white sauce along with several topping options.

Laid-back chain serving specialty pizzas in varied sizes, plus sandwiches, salads & sides.

Family-friendly chain serving classic Tex-Mex & American fare in a Southwestern-style setting.

Long-running Pittsburgh-born chain known for its sandwiches piled high with coleslaw & french fries.

Some nights just need thin-crust pies, a fork twirl of pasta, and gelato to seal the deal. Mercurio’s O’Hara nails that mix with traditional pizzas, comforting pasta and panini, plus creamy gelato that makes you suddenly OK with eating dessert on a Tuesday.

From the Pittsburgh newsletter, October 3, 2026

Relaxed eatery specializing in Italian staples, homemade pasta and pizza.

Casual Mexican outlet serving burritos, nachos, and margaritas with vegan options, and happy-hour specials.

Family owned for over 40 years, Congin's Pizza keeps it simple with fresh, homemade everything and the kind of neighborhood pie that hits when you just want reliable, really good pizza. Two locations including the original Cleveland shop, an easy go-to for Euclid folks on weeknights or post-game refuels.

From the Euclid newsletter, September 4, 2026

Mezcal Mexican Cantina brings legit Mexican flavors and a deep mezcal lineup, with melty quesabirria and craveable tacos that hit just right. Slide over to Lawrenceville this week, meet a friend, and find your new favorite cocktail without overthinking dinner.

From the Penn Hills newsletter, August 29, 2026

Laid-back pizzeria with a variety of specialty pies, hoagies & pasta, plus craft brews & cocktails.

Neapolitan pies, an open-kitchen buzz, and bright Pop Art energy make Citizen Pie the kind of spot that turns a quick Cleveland run into a ritual. Order ahead for pickup in Collinwood or Ohio City and you’re back on the road before the mozzarella fully melts... Pizza for the People, indeed.

From the Youngstown newsletter, September 12, 2026

When the pizza craving hits, Santo's Italian Restaurant delivers with pies and stromboli built on housemade dough, plus hearty Italian fare that tastes like weeknight comfort. Easy to swing by for takeout or a low-key bite, it’s the kind of reliable strip-mall gem Strongsville folks pass down like a family tip.

From the Strongsville newsletter, October 18, 2026

Mola keeps it fresh with edomae-style sushi and hand rolls made with crispy nori and warm rice, plus rice bowls built on high-quality sous-vide proteins. Grab a bubble tea brewed from real tea leaves with freshly prepared tapioca, then eat those hand rolls quickly for peak crunch... weeknight win.

From the Penn Hills newsletter, August 28, 2026

Vibrant eatery serving sushi, sashimi, poke bowls and other Japanese staples.

Small, relaxed Japanese spot with a sushi bar & additional menu of kitchen entrees & bento boxes.

Build-your-own tacos with a range of options & cocktails are the draw at this upbeat, funky outpost.

When you want a reliable spot that keeps both the noodle loyalists and the sushi crowd happy, Jimmy Wan's | Restaurant & Lounge delivers pan-Asian favorites, an upscale sushi bar, and a warm neighborhood vibe in Fox Chapel. Solid for weeknights or low-key celebrations, with a sister location in Cranberry.

From the Pittsburgh newsletter, September 20, 2026

Comfort fare such as fajitas and margaritas in a relaxed restaurant with live music.

Los Cabos Mexican Restaurant has been serving Mexican cuisine in Pittsburgh since 2009, with standouts like the Burrito Steeler, enchiladas verdes, and fresh shrimp cocktail. It’s a welcoming spot for tacos, tortas, or a breakfast burrito that might make your usual morning routine feel a bit underdressed.

From the Pittsburgh newsletter, November 1, 2026

Intimate, relaxed Italian eatery for pizza, pasta & salads, with a full bar & patio seating.

Chili Peppers Fresh Mexican Grill lets you customize everything, from wet burritos and grilled burritos to bowls, tacos, and quesadillas. Locally owned and community-minded, they also handle catering and private parties, which makes weeknight dinners and big gatherings equally easy… and delicious.

From the Lorain newsletter, September 3, 2026

Carry-out chain featuring chicken wings, signature breadsticks & pizza tossed from housemade dough.

Fiesta Vallarta keeps it simple and satisfying with street tacos, sizzling fajitas, and margaritas that pair a little too well with fresh esquite and warm queso. It’s the kind of easy, local go-to when you want real flavor without the fuss or a sink full of dishes.

From the Parma newsletter, September 3, 2026

When you need a solid, satisfying bite, The City Diner brings all-day breakfast, hefty burgers, and homestyle plates like pierogies and meatloaf in a throwback setting that feels like your neighbor’s kitchen with better coffee. Keep it simple this week, eat something you actually crave.

From the Cleveland newsletter, October 29, 2026

Swensons Drive-In nails the juicy Galley Boy double, crispy Onion Rings and those dangerously snackable Potato Teezers, all run right to your car. Grab a Swensons Whip or seasonal collab sip and call it dinner, the kind Parma folks have loved for 90 years.

From the Parma newsletter, October 17, 2026

Old Brooklyn’s Dina's Pizza & Pub is that friendly filling station turned hangout where the pizzas are cheesy, the burgers are legit, and the wings are the star, voted Best Wings in NE Ohio. Grab a cold one or a proper cocktail, settle in, and call it dinner.

From the Parma newsletter, October 5, 2026

Whether you’re craving hand-stretched pies with Pittsburgh spirit, hearty pastas, or an Italian calzone, Pizza Parma nails the comfort-food cravings. Add a Parma Pizza Boat or Traditional Gyro, then let their crew handle your next hangout with party-ready catering and delivery that shows up hot.

From the Pittsburgh newsletter, August 7, 2026

Kravitz Delicatessen Inc has been the corned-beef gold standard for 80-plus years, turning out epic Reubens, breakfast favorites, and daily soups like chicken noodle aka Jewish penicillin, and wedding soup. Treat yourself or win the office with party trays, boxed lunches, and deli meats by the pound this week.

From the Youngstown newsletter, October 31, 2026

Opal On Pearl is that relaxed, modern bar you keep meaning to try, with a tight menu of wine, thoughtful cocktails, and crispy flatbreads that actually deliver. Grab a seat this week, swap the group chat for real conversation, and let their kitchen handle the snacking.

From the Parma newsletter, September 19, 2026

Need some midweek warmth? Tan Lac Vien Vietnamese Bistro leans into cozy vibes and big, slurpable bowls of traditional pho, plus shareable apps that actually get passed around. Order online when the couch wins, or snag a reservation and make it a low-key catch-up spot this week.

From the Pittsburgh newsletter, August 8, 2026

Red Tea House keeps it simple and delicious with carefully selected, fresh ingredients and lighter cooking that lets the flavors do the work. If your dinner routine needs a dependable upgrade, their clean, satisfying take on Chinese favorites is the kind of habit Pittsburghers actually keep.

From the Mount Lebanon newsletter, September 1, 2026

Start your day with a buttery croissant and espresso, swing back for a Niçoise or the steak and Boursin baguette. By evening, Le Petit Triangle Cafe becomes the cozy spot for wine, savory crepes, escargots and boeuf bourguignon... basically a Paris mini-break without leaving Ohio City.

From the Salem newsletter, October 17, 2026