We’ve had a lot of visitors in town recently. The one consistent adage we keep hearing is, “I can’t believe what is happening downtown, I don’t even recognize it!”
And, we agree, if you're not downtown every day, the speed of new, bright, and shiny things is hard to keep track of. So, here are the signs of the times, literally the newest signs at bars, restaurants, retail stores, hotels, and even a nail salon that have (or will) open this Fall.
First up, Asher Adams is an extraordinary addition to Salt Lake and The Gateway. The Marriott Autograph Collection hotel is in the historic Union Pacific Depot with 225 moody and modern rooms and suites.
For locals, there are four food and beverage outlets. We’re positively giddy about the lobby bar where we wandered on Saturday and met bespoke service from Chad. The train station has been lovingly restored and both harkens to a golden era of train travel and also feels like a marvelous museum. Glowing stained glass and murals tell the story of Utah and can be studied for hours, especially while sipping Chad’s Old King Cole Cocktail with a plate of tuna crudo or crab toast. Rouser is the rousing American restaurant that feels casually elegant. Everything is cooked over charcoal, including one of the best octopus dishes we’ve had.
We’re sending our field reporter, Melissa Fields (get it?) on a mission to talk to the architects for a deeper report we’ll publish in the near future.
Montreal-based retailer, GARAGE has opened on the east block at City Creek Center, second floor. It is a casual clothing brand for young women with an eye for denim. Looking to be confidently ‘gram-worthy? Find your way to City Creek Center’s garage, two-hour free parking.
We saw Hotel Monaco’s handsome signage for Bambara going up a month ago and love the aesthetic. If you still haven’t checked out the newly renovated Vault, you’re missing out on a gorgeous, quiet lounge for dinner before a show at Capitol or Eccles.
Sugarhouse’s Heart’s Nail Spa will open a second location in the US Bank Building on 200 S. and Main. We’re not mani pedi people, but we’re open to new experiences. In fact, working across the street, we hope to be the first to try the Milky Honey Manicure once they open!
Bridget opened The Bridal Studio on Main Street wanting to create a luxurious experience for brides. We’re not sure you could ask for a more fanciful location in the regal Kearns Building to feel fabulous. Their curated collection offers bridal gowns from around the world you won’t find anywhere else in Utah. Make an appointment and they’ll have the bubbles on ice!
The new sign at Sayonara stands out like a Bengal tiger in the outback of Bhutan. At this vibrant and voluminous lounge on State and Broadway don’t miss the mellon ball cocktail with togarashi fries.
MORE RESTAURANTS, PLEASE!
Ok, Aker Restaurant and Lounge has a stand-out sign, but the modern coastal Mexican resort vibe, the gorgeous bar, and the beautiful, delicately-created sushi is drool-worthy. Come for all that and stay for the scene… everyone is ready for a night in SoHo or WeHo. (Don’t let that discourage you from enjoying it, we went in a hoodie and jeans.)
Italian Graffiti at The Gateway is now Lupessa. We can’t figure out what Lupessa means, but everyone can agree it is a better name than Italian Graffiti. We visited the location at opening, and it seems the new menu leans into a more authentic Italian experience. And, Alex Springer’s review in City Weekly makes us want to return soon!
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLI FRESHMAN