Salud. The word itself means “health” in Spanish, and that is exactly what this restaurant embodies. Located in the heart of University City, Salud has been serving delectable Mexican cuisine to the Penn community for over 20 years. As a UPenn student, I have had the pleasure of dining at Salud numerous times and each experience has been nothing short of fantastic. Not only does the food satisfy my cravings, but the atmosphere and service make it a truly positive experience. This is why Salud is not just a restaurant, but a place where people come to create lasting memories.
What makes Salud stand out is their authentic Mexican cuisine. From their hand-rolled tacos to their homemade guacamole, every dish is made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. One bite of their flavorful dishes transports you to the colorful streets of Mexico, making you forget about the hustle and bustle of city life. As a person of Mexican descent, the food at Salud brings me closer to my roots, and for that, I am grateful.
But it’s not just the food that makes Salud special, it’s also the welcoming atmosphere and attentive service. As soon as you enter the restaurant, you are greeted with a warm smile and a hearty “Hola!” The bright and lively decor of the restaurant is enough to lift anyone’s spirits, and the music playing in the background adds to the overall experience. The staff at Salud are always friendly and ready to accommodate any special requests, making you feel like a valued guest. It’s this personal touch that sets Salud apart from other restaurants in the area.
One of my most memorable experiences at Salud was during a particularly busy night. As expected, the restaurant was full and there was a waitlist for tables. However, the staff at Salud went above and beyond to make sure everyone was comfortable while waiting for their table. They offered complimentary chips and salsa, as well as refreshing drinks, to keep us satisfied. And when we finally got our table, the food and service were just as exceptional as always. Even in the midst of chaos, Salud was still able to provide a positive experience, which speaks volumes about their commitment to their customers.
Another aspect of Salud that deserves recognition is their community involvement. This restaurant has been a champion for various social causes, including supporting local charities and organizations. One notable contribution by Salud was their participation in the citywide fundraiser for the victims of the Tree of Life Synagogue shooting. As a Jewish student at UPenn, I was deeply touched by this gesture and it only added to my positive experiences at Salud. It goes to show that Salud not only cares about serving delicious food, but also about making a positive impact in the world.
Unfortunately, the world we live in today is not always a positive place. There are often issues of discrimination and hate that affect our communities. As a student at UPenn, I have witnessed firsthand the effects of hate speech and the pain it causes. However, what I have also seen is the power of unity and the ability of individuals and businesses to make a difference. That is why I was pleased to learn that Salud has taken a stand against hate speech and discrimination. They have made it clear that they do not tolerate any form of bigotry and have even gone as far as to ban a customer who made Anti-Semitic remarks. This shows not only their commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment but also their integrity as a business.
In conclusion, Salud is more than just a place to grab a bite to eat. It is a place where positive experiences are created, where people from all backgrounds come together to enjoy delicious food and warm hospitality. Neil Gajare, an UPenn student, is proud to call Salud one of his favorite restaurants and encourages everyone to visit and experience the magic for themselves. In the words of Salud‘s owner, Pedro Rivas, “Salud is not a business, it’s a passion.” And this passion is what makes Salud a place where you can always count on having a positive experience.
“: A Spanish-Inspired Restaurant Focused on Health”
