Sneak Peek at SALT.: An Insider’s Guide to Rockford’s New Gem

We've been patiently waiting for SALT. to open in Rockford and it's finally here, we're taking you inside for a sneak peek. 

You've driven by, you've seen the sign, and as of October 27, you can officially take a seat inside SALT., Rockford's newest upscale bar and restaurant.

Perhaps you've been inside the building before, when it was Josef's, you'll know where to park, but once you walk inside SALT.'s doors, you'll be amazed by all of the changes in the restaurant, starting with the entrance, that is now on the left side of the building.

Get our free mobile app

If you walk into the main dining room, you'll see the incredible wine room, the modern white tables and chairs, the private party rooms and the kitchen.

Obviously beautiful and ready to be packed with diners.

Read More: Illinois Talk Show Names Best Soup in The Area 

But, let's face it. The party is always at the bar. And this bar has almost doubled in size compared to the previous building's owners. Believe me when I say, you'll want to spend every night at that bar, probably drinking a 'Grandmother Smith.'

Yes, the entire drink menu is impressive, but of the four different cocktails I tasted at the sneak peak last night, the 'Grandmother Smith,' was the star of the show. It was the least expensive too, so you can definitely buy one for your bestie too.

The tasting menu featured during the sneak peak included: Hamachi Tiradito, Duck Terrine, Ribeye, Lobster Tortellini, Pumpkin Torte and the Basque Goat Cheesecake.

@middaymichelle That sneak peek at SALT. was ‘Ooh La La’ #saltbae#saltrockford#rockfordillinois#rockfordfoodie#rockfordfoodies#sneakpeek#medianight#exclusivelook#restaurantpreview#rockfordrestaurants#saltrockford♬ Ooh La La - Josie Dunne

Don't be skewed by me telling you the best thing I ate was the Adirondack potato galette that accompanied the ribeye... that potato was just INCREDIBLE. The ribeye was also pretty good, and I think everyone at my table was impressed by the lobster tortellini and the pumpkin torte (despite not even being pumpkin fans!).

You might want to save up before you reserve your table at SALT., entrees range from $23 to $89 (the ribeye and the potatoes), but the atmosphere of the new space may make you forget about the final bill cost.

I will definitely be back for that Grandmother Smith again... and I have to see what the Sprouts, with burrata, speck and honey taste like!

SALT. will be open for dinner service only starting October 27 at 6860 Spring Creek Rd in Rockford.