The 28 Must-Try Restaurants in Salt Lake City

Founded in 1879, the Shooting Star is the longest-running saloon west of the Mississippi and a beloved spot for winter enthusiasts. Nestled in the quaint mountain town of Huntsville, it's about an hour's drive north of Salt Lake City, situated in the valley between Snowbasin and Powder Mountain resorts. The quirky decor features large mounted taxidermy pieces, including a notable St. Bernard, contributing to the saloon's unique charm. It's an ideal winter stop after a day on the slopes, where you can enjoy a burger and chips (they strictly forbid French fries) alongside a cold beer. Regulars recommend the secret Star Burger, which boasts two patties, cheese, Polish knackwurst, and bacon. The staff may come off as grumpy, the service can be slow, and it's cash-only, but these eccentricities combine to create one of the best burgers in the state.

Crowned Utah’s best taco at the 2019 SLC Taco Fest, Wimpy and Fritz offers an array of street tacos and Latin dishes. Longtime friends and skaters Lane “Lefty” Montoya and Brian Zinsmann named their venture after their grandfathers, crafting a menu inspired by the flavors Montoya grew up with. They began with a tent at the Ogden Farmers Market, shared space with Yes Hell bar, and later launched a colorful food truck before finally opening a storefront in downtown Ogden, just 40 minutes north of Salt Lake City. The vibrant space features painted skateboards on the walls and a mural of the Virgin of Guadalupe. Don't miss the Borracho por Vida taco, a creative twist on birria, featuring smoked carnitas enveloped in Chihuahua cheese, perfectly seared, and served with a dipping consomé and fideos. They also have a selection of vegan tacos filled with jackfruit, hominy, or soy chorizo.

Founded by Ramon and Maria Cardenas in 1985, Red Iguana offers an extensive range of Mexican dishes, including many made with their house-made corn tortillas and rich moles, across three locations in downtown. Reservations aren't accepted, so plan to arrive early to secure a table or be ready for a wait. Don't miss the signature puntas de filete a la nortena: succulent top sirloin tips sautéed with bacon, jalapeño strips, onions, and fresh tomatoes, served on a bed of almond mole. Another must-try is their enchiladas suizas, which surpass typical tomatillo-covered enchiladas; two corn tortillas filled with avocado and chicken in sour cream, topped with a rich mole poblano, melted jack cheese, and an extra spoonful of sour cream.

Chef Viet Pham is transforming the fast-casual dining scene with his latest venture, Pretty Bird, a fried chicken spot. Previously the head chef at the acclaimed Forage, he's also known for his appearances on Iron Chef America and Beat Bobby Flay. His menu features a selection of Nashville-style fried chicken sandwiches, crinkle-cut fries, Mexican street corn salad, cider slaw, and a variety of zesty sauces, including the buttermilk-based Pretty Bird sauce. Spice levels range from mild to the restaurant's spicy “hot behind,” so choose wisely. Currently, there are two locations in Salt Lake City and a newly opened spot in Park City.

This charming Mytoury draws on the flavors of central and southern Mexico, particularly from Mexico City, and is celebrated for its tacos al pastor, generously topped with tender pork, fresh pineapple, and cilantro. The family-run establishment also features a selection of vegetarian dishes showcasing ingredients like cactus and flor de calabaza. Don't miss the popular alambre, a hearty mix of ham, bacon, steak, and onions served alongside black beans, queso fresco, and a warm flour tortilla. To finish your meal, indulge in one of their refreshing tropical fruit shakes in delightful flavors like mango and pineapple, transporting you to a sun-soaked beach.

Situated conveniently off Main Street, Siegfried’s has been a beloved German deli since 1971, offering both lunch and dinner. They import specialty ingredients like sauerkraut from Germany, alongside a selection of beers, all while keeping prices incredibly reasonable—just $8.99 for a hot entree with two sides. The wiener schnitzel tops the menu, followed closely by bratwurst and a variety of sandwiches, including their famous corned beef Reuben. Each day, they make their sausages from scratch, and side options feature hot potato salad, spaetzle with gravy, and red cabbage. The space also functions as a market where you can purchase mustards, spices, pickles, cookies, and nostalgic gift items like Heidel advent calendars during the festive season.

Co-owned by Ty Burrell, known from Modern Family, Beer Bar and Bar X are two connected venues separated by a narrow hallway at the back. Bar X originally opened its doors in 1933, coinciding with the end of Prohibition, and transformed into a craft cocktail haven when Burrell and his team refurbished it in 2010. Meanwhile, Beer Bar offers a vibe reminiscent of a German beer garden, featuring large screens and communal tables that invite patrons to enjoy local craft brews. Although all draft options comply with state regulations, keeping them at or below 5 percent ABV, their bottled choices can be much stronger. Executive chef Brendan Kawakami curates a straightforward menu including bratwursts, locally sourced bison and elk, Belgian-style fries, and a unique Reuben brat created by chef Viet Pham from Pretty Bird. The bar also hosts an annual pie and beer day—a playful twist on the state holiday Pioneer Day celebrated on July 24.

Affiliated with Park City’s Handle, HSL specializes in American cuisine, intriguing wines, and meticulously crafted cocktails. Designed by City Home Collective, the restaurant features a menu curated by chef Briar Handly that changes with the seasons. Recent standout dishes include hamachi crudo tossed with Calabrian chile vinaigrette, fresh market fish resting on foie gras velouté with sunchoke and leeks, and perfectly fried chicken accompanied by red pepper polenta.

This classic Italian grocery and deli is run by Matt Caputo, whose family roots trace back to Greece and Italy. The deli offers a range of sandwiches, pastas, salads, and desserts, including homemade tiramisu crafted with Italian mascarpone. They boast a state-of-the-art cheese cave for aging various artisanal cheeses and provide a bimonthly subscription service featuring curated artisan food products. The Caputo family is dedicated to preserving unique food items and offers hands-on training, workshops with food artisans, and public classes covering chocolate, wine, cheese, spirits, and more.

Finding fresh, high-quality seafood in landlocked Utah can be tricky, but Current Fish & Oyster delivers a reliable selection for seafood lovers. Chef Ben Steiger’s menu emphasizes top-notch seafood with a nod to classic preparations. Housed in a renovated warehouse featuring lofty ceilings and exposed brick, the venue includes a full-service bar with an impressive wine list, sherry flights, and creative cocktails. Don’t miss their offerings of East and West Coast oysters, grilled calamari paired with lemon aioli and fingerling potatoes, or the wild-caught black cod accompanied by tomato Pernod velouté and saffron cream sauce.

Having honed his skills as chef de partie at the two-Michelin-starred Jean-Georges, Ryan Lowder launched his own restaurant to spotlight locally sourced ingredients from nearby suppliers. Nestled in downtown, this new American Mytoury offers lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch with both indoor and outdoor seating options. The menu evolves seasonally based on ingredient availability, yet beloved dishes like ricotta dumplings, patatas bravas, Wagyu beef stroganoff, and rainbow trout consistently attract loyal patrons.

Step into a charming slice of Tuscany at this rustic Italian Mytoury, where classic white tablecloths grace the tables and the servers present a polished appearance. Named after the chef and proprietor, Valter Nassi, the restaurant offers many dishes inspired by his mother's recipes, such as Rigatoni al Sugo Della Mamma and Pasta al Forno Vera (homemade lasagna). Another highlight is the Nana in Porchetta Savinese, a representation of a typical Sunday dinner featuring duck breast crusted with fennel, served in a cognac and grape sauce. True to Italian dining traditions, meals here are leisurely affairs, giving Chef Nassi ample opportunity to greet guests at their tables with warmth and friendliness.

Since its establishment in 1986, Banbury Cross Donuts has delighted the Salt Lake City community with its delectable baked treats. Situated just a short walk from the historic Trolley Square, this bakery crafts a variety of goodies daily, including cinnamon rolls, apple fritters, cake donuts, pinwheels, and more, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their signature offering is the old-fashioned blueberry cake doughnut, a treat so tasty it may just convert you from any yeast-based favorites. Always innovating, they frequently introduce new flavors and exciting twists on classic recipes. If you're unable to visit in person, the drive-through is a convenient option, but arrive early to ensure you snag the most popular varieties before they sell out.

Chanon Thai often sees lines stretching out the door as eager diners wait to indulge in favorites like tom yum soup with prawns, som tum salad, and an array of curries. The inviting dining area is adorned with a cork board showcasing heartfelt notes and drawings from loyal patrons, and you might even share a table with renowned athletes like Alex Honnold, who often stop by during their training visits. This beloved neighborhood Mytoury is celebrated for its generous use of Thai chilies, creating rich, complex flavors and intense heat. Even classic dishes, such as pad kee mao (thick noodles stir-fried with broccoli, Thai basil, bell pepper, Thai chili, garlic, and soy), come with a caveat: the spice level can vary daily based on the chili batch. Don’t skip dessert; the mango with Thai custard and sweet sticky rice is the ideal way to conclude a spicy feast.

Freshie’s began its journey at the Park Silly farmers market in Park City, eventually growing into a food truck and a brick-and-mortar restaurant with locations in Park City and downtown Salt Lake. Owner Lorin Smaha hails from Lebanon, New Hampshire, where her passion for lobster was ignited, and she later married a fellow New Englander who shares her enthusiasm. The restaurant prides itself on sourcing sustainable, fresh lobster shipped daily from Maine, living up to the motto 'from shore to door in 24 hours.' Their menu showcases this star ingredient in various preparations, including rolls, sliders, lettuce cups, and bisque. In 2017, Freshie’s was awarded the title of world’s best lobster roll at the Down East Lobster Roll Festival in Portland, Maine, triumphing over numerous local competitors and making waves in the lobster community.

The term “laziz” translates to tasty or lighthearted in Lebanon, which perfectly encapsulates the approach that co-founders Moudi Sbeity and (state Senator) Derek Kitchen bring to their shareable dishes. Sbeity arrived from Lebanon in 2006, and together they began selling homemade hummus to friends and colleagues. Their venture evolved into a storefront that now features a menu including za’atar fries (inspired by batata harra) and a kafta burger topped with tomato tapenade. Both Sbeity and Kitchen are proud members of the queer community and played a pivotal role in the landmark case Kitchen v. Herbert, which struck down Utah’s same-sex marriage ban.

This family-owned Mytoury and market specializes in Polynesian cuisine and has become a cherished hub for Polynesian Americans in the area. For many years, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has sent missionaries to the Pacific, fostering migration, cultural connections, and a shared appreciation for Pacific Islander dishes. Pacific Seas offers island classics like Hawaiian musubi, Samoan muli pipi (fried turkey tails), Tongan lu/luau (taro leaves with lamb), and whole fried golden pompano. Don't miss the Bongo baked chips in flavors like cheese or chicken, imported from Fiji, and wash it all down with a refreshing mango ’otai, a blend of fresh mango, pineapple, and coconut.

This authentic Japanese restaurant is led by James Beard semifinalist chef Peggy Ince-Whiting, who honed her skills under sushi master Inou at Hama Sushi in Tokyo before bringing her expertise to Salt Lake City for over 30 years. Owner Sam Tada, originally from Kyoto, moved to the U.S. at 23 and, along with his wife and partner Yoshiko Yamasaki, established the restaurant to capture a piece of their homeland. Diners flock here for ebi tempura, agedashi tofu, and a diverse sushi bar selection, all while enjoying the serene ambiance with lanterns and booth dividers.

Located adjacent to Liberty Park, this cozy neighborhood Mytoury offers hearty breakfast and lunch in a small yet welcoming environment, whether you choose the diner-style counter or a table with friends. The clientele is diverse, featuring everyone from 20-somethings nursing hangovers to Real Salt Lake players, and trendy parents with toddlers who are already skiing like pros. Service is quick and attentive, essential for managing the bustling crowds, especially on weekends. Standout dishes include the biscuits and gravy and the breakfast platter dubbed French Toast Foolishness, but don’t miss the daily specials on their whiteboard—particularly the huevos rancheros topped with savory pork chile verde. For a true local experience, pair your meal with a chai latte and add cheese to your grilled park potatoes, a common side on many plates.

Established in 2008, this Ethiopian Mytoury brings traditional recipes and cooking techniques from the Tadesse family, passed down through generations. The diverse menu features an array of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free choices, with all dishes accompanied by homemade injera, prepared fresh each day (rice is available as a gluten-free substitute). The flavors are enriched with mitmita, a spice blend crafted from African bird’s eye chiles, and berbere, a crucial chili spice mix in Ethiopian cuisine. Guests can also enjoy imported Ethiopian beers and wines, along with tej, a beverage made from fermented honey and gesho hops. For special moments, the restaurant offers a traditional coffee ceremony for up to four guests using Ethiopian coffee beans.

As part of the successful Pago Restaurant Group, Finca is now in its third location within the 15th & 15th neighborhood. This Spanish restaurant serves tapas and platos crafted from local and sustainable ingredients, featuring classics like croquetas, paella, tortilla española, ceviche, and patatas bravas, topped off with cinnamon churros and chocolate sauce for dessert. Owner and sommelier Scott Evans has curated a wine selection highlighting unique Spanish and Portuguese varieties, especially natural wines from small producers.

Nestled in the charming 15th & 15th neighborhood, this Middle Eastern Mytoury showcases authentic Lebanese dishes. Owner Ali Sabbah traveled from Lebanon to Salt Lake City for an economics degree at the University of Utah, but his love for the area inspired him to open a restaurant. Ideal for sharing, start your meal with a variety of dips like hummus, baba ghanoush, and muhammara, then savor heartier options such as the succulent bone-in lamb shank, slow-cooked with allspice, ginger, and fenugreek, served with aromatic saffron couscous. Mazza is also known for its extensive Mediterranean beer and wine selection, featuring offerings from Lebanon, Morocco, and Greece, along with many imported condiments and spices.

Starting from humble beginnings, husband-and-wife team Hasen (Hoss) Cone and Teri Rosquist initially sold their freshly squeezed limeade at local farmers markets and county fairs. As demand grew, they expanded their menu to include homemade dishes, eventually opening their own storefront. Inspired by Cone’s Texan roots, the menu features locally sourced ingredients, hearty salads, and biscuits baked fresh each day. This beloved brunch destination also serves cocktails crafted from spirits produced by local Utah distilleries. Be sure to try the Hoss, their signature sandwich that includes crispy fried chicken, bacon, egg, sausage gravy, cheddar cheese, and green onion, all piled on a fluffy biscuit during your first visit.

Lavanya Mahate, the founder of Saffron Valley, hails from southern India and developed a passion for street food while studying in western India. After moving to the U.S. in 2001, she began selling her unique spice blends at the Downtown Farmers Market in Salt Lake City. This led to the establishment of her first restaurant, Saffron Valley Indian Street Food Cafe, which has now expanded to multiple locations in the Avenues and Sugarhouse neighborhoods. The restaurant is renowned for hosting the largest Indian buffet in Salt Lake, offering dishes like deconstructed samosas (filled with mashed potatoes, sweet peas, roasted cumin, and ginger), bone-in goat curry (prepared with mustard, fenugreek, curry leaves, and sambhar spice), and gulab jamun drenched in fragrant syrup. Through her venture, Mahate collaborates with the Utah Refugee Training and Education Center to provide culinary training to refugees and underprivileged youth, including opportunities for paid internships and job placements.

This family-operated establishment pays homage to partner Sheron Grant’s beloved grandmother, Florence. Hailing from Mount Salem, Jamaica, Florence instilled a deep appreciation for Jamaican cuisine in her family, who now celebrate her culinary legacy in Park City. Every dish is prepared to order, with most proteins cooked bone-in to enhance flavor and retain the marrow. The menu showcases traditional island ingredients and flavors, packed with scotch bonnet peppers, homemade jerk seasoning, conch, and ackee and saltfish. They also make fresh roti, affectionately dubbed Jamaican mop, perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce.

No need for Utahns to hop on a plane to New York for a delicious deli experience. Feldman’s offers a selection of hearty sandwiches stacked high on delectable bread, along with classic old-world specialties. Located at the base of Parleys Canyon—the route to Park City—this deli is worth the journey for their award-winning creations, including pastrami, corned beef, Reubens, and sloppy joes. The menu also features European dishes like pierogies, stuffed cabbage, chicken paprikash, kielbasa, brisket, and smoked whitefish salad.

Located in a transformed factory, Table X offers a creative take on new American cuisine with five- to seven-course tasting menus that include both traditional and vegetarian options. The constantly evolving menu features dishes like garden sunchokes with smoky nage, delicata squash, poblano, and Jones Creek beef bavette steak with garden garlic, radicchio, celery root, and truffle. Chef Mike Blocher leads the innovative dining experience, while Nick Fahs is focused on expanding their wholesale bakery, Table X Bread, which offers coffee, sourdough, and a variety of pastries such as croissants, scones, and cookies. The restaurant prides itself on sourcing fresh ingredients from its French potager garden, employing preservation techniques like fermentation, pickling, canning, drying, and aging. For special events, the garden dining room accommodates up to 14 guests.

Originally founded in Ogden, this locally owned gem has expanded to its newest location in Industry SLC, a revamped office space in the vibrant Granary District. Slackwater is beloved for its live music, extensive craft beer selection, and a pub-style menu that features an array of artisan pizzas with unique global flavor profiles. Standout pies include the California Sunrise (featuring roasted chicken, peppered bacon, green goddess dressing, and sliced avocado), the Italian Job (loaded with pepperoni, salami, capicola, pepperoncinis, and a creamy herb vinaigrette), and a tikka masala pie. Don’t miss the pork chile verde nachos and the hearty spinach artichoke dip. The venue boasts patio seating, separated from the indoor dining area by glass garage doors that open to create an inviting open-air atmosphere during warmer months.