Salud Bistro - Escape to the Mediterranean
Tavia Babb was destined to succeed. Born and raised on St. Croix, Tavia graduated from Country Day School and went on to study International Relations and Foreign Policy at Tufts University. After graduating in 1997 she went on to a career in advertising which led her to New York City and eventually San Francisco.
Feeling frustrated with no creative outlet she decided to quit her job and travel to Europe. Her travels included Italy, Spain, Greece, Turkey and France. Upon returning to California she enrolled at the California School of Culinary Arts, a Cordon Bleu program, and completed the program at the top of her class. After working at Rubicon restaurant in San Francisco she decided to move back to St. Croix to be closer to family and with the hopes of opening her own restaurant someday.
Tavia worked at Bellows International on St. Croix for three years selling wines and planning many of the islands wine lists for local restaurants and hotels. When the opportunity arose, Tavia jumped at the chance to open her own restaurant. Salud Bistro opened its doors in December 2005!
Gathering inspiration from her grandparents and travels, Tavia desires to share her love of food and wine with others. When asked why the restaurant has been so successful Tavia says, "I believe Salud works because it showcases the flavors of the Mediterranean, which are fresh, ingredient-driven, simple, and a touch exotic, in a creative, energetic, friendly atmosphere."
Salud is very much a "Bistro"...high energy, a little noisy, and a place to enjoy live music, great food, creative cocktails and a well planned, thoughtful wine list. The knowledgeable staff at Salud is trained to help select the perfect wine or cocktail for your meal. With the menu prices so reasonable many get to enjoy Salud on a regular basis. Celebrate Spain with Salud on Tuesday nights while enjoying 2 for 1 bottles of wine and great paella. Live music on Friday and Saturday night lends a mellow party mood to the restaurant.
Tavia hosts a monthly wine club that attempts to take the snob factor out of wine and encourages people to keep tasting and learning about various wines. As Tavia says, "Wine is the best compliment to any meal and I am passionate about it. The best way to learn is to keep drinking and always try something new!
Wine is not all you'll find at Salud! Tavia's boyfriend and partner, Jerry, who is also known as bartender extraordinaire makes the best Mojitos on island. You can find many signature drinks created at Salud that may surprise you... Beet Mojito anyone?
Your taste buds will never be bored while Chef Noah Ronald and Sous- Chef James Schierloh work with Tavia and Jerry to create their Mediterranean inspired menu at Salud, which is updated seasonally.
To make reservations please call 718- 7900 or check out their current menu online at www.saludbistro.com
