No matter your taste, these personal favorite spots are sure to satisfy your cravings while showcasing the city's unique culinary culture.
Penny Ann's Cafe is a family-run establishment known for its homemade comfort foods, particularly their signature "Heavenly Hot Cakes®," which are light and airy sour cream pancakes. The menu features a variety of breakfast and lunch items, including omelets, sandwiches, and burgers. They have four locations in Utah:
Salt Lake City: 1810 S Main Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84115
Taylorsville: 1856 West 5400 South, Taylorsville, UT 84129
Draper: 280 East 12300 South, Draper, UT 84020
Bountiful: 234 S 500 W Ste 101, West Bountiful, UT 84010
Root'd Cafe offers a diverse menu focusing on fresh, local ingredients. Their offerings include breakfast items like beignets, various benedicts, and sweet dishes such as brown-butter pancakes. For lunch and dinner, they provide a range of salads, sandwiches, and entrees. Located at 2577 Bengal Blvd, Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121
Eggs in the City is a popular breakfast and brunch spot known for its hearty American dishes, including a variety of egg-centric plates, pancakes, and sandwiches. Located at 2795 S 2300 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84109
Robeks Juice specializes in fresh smoothies, juices, and healthy snacks. They offer a variety of fruit and vegetable blends, as well as acai bowls and wellness shots. One of their Utah locations is at 699 E 2100 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84106.
Rio Acai offers a selection of acai bowls, smoothies, and other healthy treats, focusing on fresh and natural ingredients. Located at 770 S 300 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Gourmandise is a European-style bakery and café known for its wide array of pastries, desserts, and savory dishes. Their menu includes breakfast items, sandwiches, salads, and a variety of baked goods. The downtown location is at 250 S 300 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Sweet Lake Biscuits & Limeade began as a farmer's market stand and has grown into a beloved eatery known for its fluffy biscuits and freshly made limeade. Their menu features biscuit sandwiches, traditional breakfast plates, and a variety of limeade flavors. Located at 54 W 1700 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84115
Antica Sicilia
Antica Sicilia is an award-winning Italian restaurant in Salt Lake City, specializing in authentic Sicilian cuisine. Their menu features traditional dishes such as Nonna's Homemade Meatballs, Melanzane Alla Parmigiana, and a variety of fresh seafood options. It can be really busy on Friday and Saturday nights so a reservation is recommended. Located at 2020 E 3300 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84109
Ti Amo Wood Fired Pizza
Ti Amo Wood Fired Pizza is an authentic Italian neighborhood pizzeria located in Bountiful, Utah. They specialize in wood-fired pizzas, offering a diverse menu that includes options for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions. In addition to pizzas, they serve salads, soups, appetizers, and Italian gelato. Located at 515 W 2600 S, Bountiful, UT 84010
Caffe Molise
Sapa Sushi Bar & Asian Grill Sapa Sushi Bar & Asian Grill offers a fusion of Japanese and other Asian cuisines in a stylish setting. Their menu features a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and Asian-inspired dishes such as the Massaman Beef and Drunken Noodle. Located at 722 S State Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Mint Tapas and Sushi Mint Tapas and Sushi offers a diverse menu of Asian-inspired small plates and premium-grade sushi. They are committed to sustainability, focusing on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. They have multiple locations in Utah:
Sandy: 8391 S 700 E, Sandy, UT 84070
Cottonwood Heights: 3158 E 6200 S, Holladay, UT 84121
Holladay: 4640 S Holladay Blvd, Holladay, UT 84117
Sugar House: 2121 S McClelland Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84106
Draper: 519 E 12300 S, Draper, UT 84020
Arigato Sushi Arigato Sushi is a Japanese restaurant offering a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and traditional Japanese dishes. Located at 42 W 3300 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84115
Chile-Tepin Chile-Tepin is a Mexican restaurant located in downtown Salt Lake City, named after the chile-tepin pepper. The spacious and casual restaurant offers a menu featuring classic Mexican dishes prepared from family recipes handed down for generations, using fresh ingredients sourced locally and from specialty farms. Popular dishes include the molcajete, parrillada, moles, and combinaciones. The beverage menu features classic and modern Mexican cocktails, domestic and imported beers, and non-alcoholic traditional drinks. Located at 307 W 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Lone Star Taqueria Lone Star Taqueria is a popular spot known for its authentic Mexican tacos and burritos, offering a variety of fillings such as fish, carne asada, and carnitas. The restaurant is located at 2265 E Fort Union Blvd, Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121.
Tres Hombres Mexican Grill and Cantina Tres Hombres offers a diverse menu of Mexican cuisine, including enchiladas, tacos, and fajitas, complemented by a selection of margaritas and other beverages. Located at 3298 S Highland Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84106
Monarca Monarca is a Mexican restaurant offering a range of traditional dishes and modern interpretations, focusing on fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. The restaurant is located at 268 State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111.
El Chihuahua Restaurant El Chihuahua is a family-owned Mexican restaurant known for its authentic Mexican food and signature "Duckie Death Star" cocktail. The menu features a wide range of traditional dishes, including enchiladas, tacos, and burritos. If you order a specific alcoholic beverage like the Duckie Death Star, you do have to order a specific amount of food to comply with state laws! Located at 3926 Highland Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84124
Red Iguana is a celebrated family-owned Mexican restaurant in Salt Lake City, Utah, renowned for its authentic Mexican cuisine, particularly its diverse selection of rich and flavorful moles. With multiple locations so check them all out below!
Red Iguana "The OG"
Address: 736 W North Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84116
Red Iguana 2
Address: 866 W South Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84104
Taste of Red Iguana
Location: City Creek Center Food Court, 28 South State Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Star of India
Star of India is a renowned Indian restaurant in Salt Lake City, Utah, specializing in Northern Indian cuisine with authentic Tandoori cooking. Established in 1990, they offer a variety of dishes, including chicken curry, lamb, goat, seafood, halal meats, and vegetarian options, all spiced to individual preferences. The restaurant also boasts a wide selection of Indian desserts.
They are located at 1000 S. Main Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84101.
Curry Connect
Curry Connect is a vibrant Indian restaurant situated in Sandy, Utah, offering a diverse menu that blends traditional flavors with innovative dishes. Their offerings range from classic curries and tandoori meats to fusion creations, all prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic spices.
The restaurant is located at 863 E 9400 S, Sandy, UT 84094.
Market Street Grill & Oyster Bar
Market Street Grill & Oyster Bar is a classic seafood restaurant and oyster bar that has been serving fresh seafood since 1980. The dining room features an elegant, nautical vibe, perfect for gatherings. Their seafood-focused menu includes oyster selections, fresh catches, steaks, prime rib, and pastas. They have multiple locations, including Downtown Salt Lake City, Cottonwood, and South Jordan.
Downtown Location: 48 West Market Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Current Fish & Oyster
Current Fish & Oyster offers a contemporary seafood dining experience in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City. Their menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including grilled oysters, market fish, scallops, and a Thai fish stew. The restaurant is housed in a repurposed garage, providing a unique and charming ambiance.
Location: 279 East 300 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Manoli's is a Greek small plates restaurant in Salt Lake City, Utah, offering a fresh interpretation of Greek cuisine by utilizing fresh, local, and seasonal products. Their menu features a variety of small plates designed for sharing, allowing guests to experience a range of flavors and dishes. The restaurant is located at 402 E Harvey Milk Blvd #2, Salt Lake City, UT 84111.
HallPass
HallPass is Utah's first food hall, offering a variety of dining options under one roof. Located in The Gateway at 153 S Rio Grande St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, it features multiple vendors serving diverse cuisines, from gourmet burgers to Asian fusion dishes.
Emigration Brewing Co.
Emigration Brewing Co. offers a warm and inviting dining experience, focusing on locally sourced and traditional ingredients. Their menu changes seasonally and includes brunch and dinner options. Located at 4170 Emigration Canyon Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84108
Huckleberry Grill
Huckleberry Grill brings the flavors of Utah and the Pacific Northwest to Salt Lake City. Their menu features dishes like Utah funeral potatoes, cold-smoked tri-tip steak, and huckleberry pork tenderloin. Located at 335 W 1830 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84115
Urban Hill
Urban Hill is a contemporary American restaurant located in Salt Lake City, offering a menu that emphasizes seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant provides a modern dining experience with a focus on sustainability. Would be a great upscale option for holiday parties. Located at 550 S 300 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
The Cliff Dining Pub
The Cliff Dining Pub offers a diverse menu of modern American cuisine in a stylish setting. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes, from small plates to hearty entrees, complemented by an extensive drink menu. Located at 12234 S Draper Gate Dr, Suite 105, Draper, UT 84020
Cultivate Craft Kitchen
Cultivate Craft Kitchen pays homage to Draper's rich farming history with a menu that captures the flavors of each season. The restaurant offers modern dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients in a setting that blends rustic and industrial design elements. Located at 12234 S Draper Gate Dr, Suite 105, Draper, UT 84020
Squatters Pub Brewery
Squatters Pub Brewery offers a warm, open atmosphere for guests to enjoy a variety of craft beers and a diverse menu. Located at 147 W Broadway, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Wasatch Brewery
Wasatch Brewery, in conjunction with Squatters, offers a taproom and beer store featuring over 20 taps of craft beer. Visitors can enjoy limited-release beers and a selection of small bites. Located at 1763 S 300 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84115, they also have a location in downtown Park City
Log Haven is a renowned fine-dining restaurant nestled within the scenic Millcreek Canyon, offering a romantic and historic mountain retreat just minutes from downtown Salt Lake City. Established over a century ago, the restaurant is situated on 40 private acres in the Wasatch National Forest, surrounded by pines, waterfalls, and wildflowers, providing a picturesque setting for diners. The menu at Log Haven features a range of exquisite dishes, including options like seared salmon, pork chops, and bison steak au poivre, all crafted to provide a memorable culinary experience. Log Haven is also a popular venue for weddings and special events, offering an exceptional setting and exquisite cuisine for various occasions.
Location: 6451 E Millcreek Canyon Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84109
Bruges Belgian Bistro
Bruges Belgian Bistro offers an authentic taste of Belgium with a menu featuring Liège waffles, fries, and burgers. The bistro provides a quaint, old-world atmosphere, appreciated by both locals and tourists. Located at 336 W 300 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Louks Greek Baby Donuts
Louks Greek Baby Donuts specializes in "loukoumades," traditional Greek pastries akin to donut holes. These golden, crispy treats are typically topped with honey, cinnamon, and walnuts, among other variations. Located at 6949 S 1300 E, Cottonwood Heights, UT 84047
Rockwell Ice Cream
Rockwell Ice Cream is an award-winning parlor known for its handcrafted, small-batch, super-premium ice cream. They emphasize using locally sourced ingredients and offer a variety of unique flavors. With locations in Downtown Provo and Salt Lake City
Chubby Baker
Chubby Baker is a dessert shop specializing in filled donuts, offering a variety of flavors and fillings. They focus on creating soft, fluffy donuts with creamy or chewy fillings, providing a delightful texture contrast. With locations in Salt Lake City, Sandy, and Orem.
Go check out my guide for the best free things to do as well as itineraries and travel tips to make your trip unforgettable.