The sun is shining and the streets are buzzing with plenty of summer activity. Walk around downtown during the lunch hour and you’ll find patios filled up with happy diners. Some might say they feel like they’re in a different city, but I say this is the new normal for Salt Lakers. This vibrancy will only continue to grow with many new stores, restaurants, and bars joining the scene throughout the summer.

Of course, be sure to check out previous posts for even more upcoming downtown businesses!

Recently Opened

Böhme | At City Creek Center
The Sandy-based boutique has made its return to Downtown SLC. The Böhme sisters, originally from Brazil, curate a specialized collection of trendy women’s apparel for. Look no further for some unique looks to add to your wardrobe.

Ginger Street | 324 South State Street
After much ado, Ginger Street has finally opened its doors! The sophisticated, fast-casual restaurant offers “Southeast Asian Hawker Styler Street Food.” In case it isn’t totally clear what that means, think pad thai, orange chicken, dumplings, and steamed buns. Keep in mind they’ve got some unique ice cream offerings as well. A “wok up” window is coming soon to satisfy you even when you’re on the go!

Grow Kratom | 219 East Broadway
It’s always a surprise to see what pops up on the always-quirky Broadway. This kratom shop is your go-to destination to find all things to do with the Southeast Asian herbal supplement.

Ibiza Ultra Lounge | 180 West 400 South
Nightlife goers have a new party destination downtown. Ibiza opened last month in the location previously occupied by Moose Lounge. Don’t miss out on your chance to party away in the island party club!

Kendra Scott | At City Creek Center
The new addition at City Creek Center makes it easier than ever to accessorize your life. You’ll find selections of jewelry and home decor to match any personality, and you can even visit the Color Bar to design your own unique pieces!

MAIZE | On Regent Street
Taco truck turned taco shop, MAIZE is a prime option for authentic Mexican food. Watch the tortillas made fresh and the al pastor carved right in front of you. In addition to the tacos ranging from shrimp to veggie, you can choose from classics like quesadillas, Mexican street corn, grilled cactus, and fruit paletas.

Steyk Center | 207 East Broadway
Tavernacle fans may have noticed the construction next door, and you can finally visit its sister restaurant. The just-as-punny Steyk Center offers an assortment of experimental pub fare, including the namesake steyk stick. This is an ideal spot if you’re looking for a full meal to start your night before dueling pianos.

Turmeric | On Regent Street
The team at Turmeric specializes in real Indian cuisine, traveling to the country every few years to hone their craft. Visit in the evening for your choice of street food or more sophisticated options. If you’re looking to sample it all, the lunch buffet is a can’t-miss option for your day!

Opening Soon

Hot Buns | 111 East Broadway
Serving out of the window on the east side of Copper Common, Hot Buns will feature a menu of Asian street food. As the name implies, the literal hole in the wall will serve hot buns along with noodles and other favorites. We’re definitely excited to see some more life coming around Edison Street!

Do you know of a new business I missed? Got a tip of one getting ready to open? Let me know at

The rain may be keeping us all from getting out as much the past few weeks, but there are a few new places downtown worth the trek! Along with the inevitable summer sunshine, watch for even more retail businesses coming our way very soon.

Recently Opened

Crumbl | 45 West South Temple (At City Creek Center)
Amidst a statewide cookie craze, Crumbl has emerged as one of the crowd favorites. The bakery’s rapid expansion has finally reached downtown with a new store open inside the renovated Deseret Book at City Creek Center. It’s a convenient stop if you’re in need of a cookie fix during your workday, or you can order delivery online.

Seabird | 7 South Rio Grande Street (At The Gateway)
We’ve been looking forward to the opening of this new vinyl lounge at The Gateway. It is one of several developments being planned as part of the reimagined center focused on nightlife and entertainment. The cozy little spot located just above the Olympic Legacy Plaza is a great option to grab some post-work drinks.

Utah Sports Hall of Fame Museum | 99 West South Temple (At City Creek Center)
After more than 50 years, the Utah Sports Hall of Fame Foundation finally has a permanent home. The museum is a celebration of Utah sports history, with interactive features recognizing the many great athletes in our state. You can find the museum in a hidden corner on the ground level of the 99 West condos, just north of Nordstrom. It is free to visitors, so bring the whole family to check it out!

Opening Soon

Curry Up Now | 152 East 200 South
This Bay Area chain will be the second location in Utah. While the menu features Indian classics like samosas, naan, and masala, the addition of burritos and fried ravioli demonstrates a true fusion concept. Seeing as it is will be taking over the space currently occupied by Cedars of Lebanon -- which will be closing in just a few weeks as the owners retire -- we can only hope the fast-growing franchise will satisfy the demand for international cuisine in SLC.

Grow Kratom | 219 East Broadway
For the many of us unfamiliar with kratom, it is an herbal supplement from Southeast Asia quickly gaining popularity in the US. Believed to act as a pain reliever and energy booster, you can find it as a tea, capsule, or other forms. 

Wiseguys Lounge | At The Gateway
We don’t know much about this one yet, but Wiseguys is set to open a restaurant this summer adjacent to its comedy club at The Gateway. This will be an awesome space to host some of the comedians coming into town and to enjoy the Wiseguys experience even when you don’t have tickets to a show. The official name and menu are still being determined, but keep an eye out for an opening this summer!

Do you know of a new business I missed? Got a tip of one getting ready to open? Let me know at !

At long last, the retail spaces along Regent Street are starting to open. The mid-block street was revitalized along with the opening of Eccles Theater almost three years ago. Patrons have welcomed Last Course, Fireside, and the ever-popular Pretty Bird, but most of the spaces have remained vacant until now. With three more new restaurants, the corridor connecting City Creek Center and Gallivan Plaza will only continue to liven up. We can’t wait to see what else is in store for Regent Street!

Recently Opened

Five Sushi Brothers | 67 West 100 South
What started out as a late-night sushi delivery service quickly turned into a popular Provo restaurant. Almost three years later, Five Sushi Brothers opened up in Salt Lake City last month right in front of the Salt Palace. Stop by for some tasty rolls, and keep an eye out for the late night delivery service starting in SLC very soon.

Heart & Seoul Karaoke | 67 West 100 South
Neighboring Five Sushi Brothers is a new recreation destination. Heart & Seoul is modeled after the “norebang” karaoke rooms found across Korea. Bring a group of friends, reserve a private room, and select from more than 30,000 songs. It’s a karaoke experience you won’t want to miss.

Honest Eatery | On Regent Street
If you’ve been going to Jazz games this season, there’s a good chance you’ve seen the açaí bowls from Honest Eatery. After some construction delays, they just opened up a storefront right next to Last Course on Regent Street. Protein shakes and premium toast options make for a perfect breakfast or lunch, or you can customize your own açaí bowl with a variety of gourmet toppings.

Mali Thai | 238 South Main Street
We were sad to see Este Deli depart from Main Street, but before we knew it Mali Thai came in to take its place. The transition was so quick, you’ll still find some of the window stickers left from the deli. The spot is only open for lunch on weekdays, but it may just prove to be a hidden gem of a lunch spot to break up your workday.

Seon Korean Barbecue | 423 West 300 South
Combine all-you-can-eat with Korean barbecue and you’re sure to have a winner. Seon just opened up just west of Pioneer Park. Come hungry because you’re sure to get your fill of meat and sides prepared fresh just for you.

Opening Soon

MAIZE | On Regent Street
One of Salt Lake’s most popular food trucks is opening up is getting a permanent home on Regent Street. The taco shop is looking mostly furnished, and is dues to open up any day now!

Sweet Rolled Tacos | 157 South Rio Grande (At The Gateway)
We all know in the Instagram age, how food looks is just as important as how it tastes. Well, Sweet Rolled Tacos has a rainbow of colorful ice cream tacos ready to shine on social media. The bright waffle cones shells are filled with a variety of creative rolled ice cream flavors and toppings. With a few stores in southern California, the chain will be expanding to The Gateway this summer.

Turmeric | On Regent Street
The second location for this Indian restaurant from Draper will be joining the dining scene on Regent Street. Keep your eye out for an Indian menu filled with curry adding a bit of international flair to downtown very soon.

Do you know of a new business I missed? Got a tip of one getting ready to open? Let me know at !

Foodies rejoice! The already thriving food scene downtown is only looking to get better this year. With expansions from out of state as well as Utah favorites, there has never been a better time to take a lunch break or a dinner date. Sprinkle in some boutique shops and the still-growing coworking scene and you’ve got the evolving Downtown SLC we all know and love!

Recently Opened

CommonGrounds Workplace | 132 South State Street
Based in San Diego, CommonGrounds opened its doors on State Street just south of City Creek Center. Offering a number of luxury amenities to its member, it is ideally situated in the heart of downtown.

Kazé Sushi | 65 East Broadway
Located outside Gallivan Plaza, Kazé recently finished an outdoor patio buildout. It is shaping up to be a perfect addition to the outdoor dining season leading right into the summer concert season at Gallivan.

Opening Soon

Blue Marlin | 136 East South Temple
This restaurant extension from Sandy offers a variety of sushi rolls and Asian-inspired tapas. It is expected to open early summer at the base of South Temple Tower.

Böhme | At City Creek Center
This Sandy-based retailer specializes in women’s clothing, accessories, and footwear. The trendy boutique will be a welcome addition to City Creek’s already plentiful variety of fashion.

Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop | 50 East South Temple
Founded in Delaware, Capriotti’s formed to offer a sandwich for “real turkey lovers.” The menu has expanded since then, but the sandwich shop is still known for its fresh-roasted turkey, quality meats and cheese, and fresh rolls and produce.

Carson Kitchen | 241 West 200 South
A popular eatery just off Fremont Street in Las Vegas, Carson Kitchen is expanding to Salt Lake City at the newly-opened Milagro Apartments. This location is expected to open in the fall and carry a tradition of trendy design and innovative, playful interpretations of American comfort food.

Ginger Street | 300 South State Street
You may have noticed the bright pink that appeared recently at the intersection of 300 South and State Street. Ginger Street is scheduled to open in May, bringing Southeast Asian street food to downtown SLC.

Kendra Scott | At City Creek Center
Kendra Scott stores have quickly come to be known for its selection of designer jewelry, home decor, and beauty products. This will be the first store to open in Utah, offering a unique selection of goods.

Nacho Daddy | 241 West 200 South
Another Las Vegas concept going into the Milagro Apartments, Nacho Daddy claims to have the most insane gourmet nachos around, in addition to a full vegan menu and a variety of other Mexican-American collisions. This will be the chain’s second location outside the Las Vegas area when it opens this fall.

Tin Angel at Eccles Theater | 131 South Main Street
Unoccupied since the closing of Hamilton last year, the bistro space inside Eccles Theater was recently awarded to downtown-favorite Tin Angel. Design and buildout are expected to take place through early summer, with an anticipated opening before The Book of Mormon in July. The menu will be a mix of favorites from the current restaurant along with some new additions. We have been assured the bread pudding will be featured!

Vitality Bowls Superfood Cafe | At City Creek Center
It’s getting a lot easier to find healthy food options, and that is just what you’ll find at Vitality Bowls. Thick açaí blends and organic granola are the stars of the menu, but you can also find smoothies, fresh juices, soups, salads, and panini.

The Wave | 32 East Exchange Place
Housed in the beautiful, historic Commercial Club building, The Wave strives to provide safe workspace for women. While public spaces are co-ed, at least one floor will be dedicated to feminine-identifying individuals. The first phase includes a renovated ballroom, available for private social and business functions, while future development could potentially activate all seven floors of the building. The opening celebration is anticipated for May.

Zimbu | At City Creek Center
We don’t know too much yet about Zimbu, but we are always in favor of adding some ethnic flair to the food court at City Creek. Zimbu will offer a variety of Nepali and Indian cuisine.

Do you know of a new business I missed? Got a tip of one getting ready to open? Let me know at !

2018 saw plenty of new retail businesses popping up downtown, and 2019 is shaping up to be no different. While there wasn’t a lot of action in the first month of the year, we’ll start to see a lot of openings as we come closer to the summer season. Keep an eye out for a followup on some of the upcoming businesses we’ve shared in the past, as well as announcements of even more!

Recently Opened

George + Bar George | 327 West 200 South
A staple in the downtown dining scene for close to five years, Finca shut its doors at the end of November. Never fear, because it was immediately replaced by two new sister concepts, a restaurant and bar with a shared name. George and Bar George still offer some of your favorite small plates from the old Finca, but have refreshed the menu with some new, simpler comfort food options.

Sicilia Mia | 10 East Broadway
The long-awaited addition to the Sicilia Mia family of restaurants opened downtown just in time for the holidays. The quaint eatery serves up a menu of traditional Sicilian recipes passed down for generations. While the whole menu is tantalizing, perhaps the biggest draw to the restaurant is carbonara finished tableside in a giant, flaming wheel of Parmigiano-Reggiano. Of course, you’ll definitely want to finish off your meal with some house-made tiramisu!

Torrent Cycle | 252 East Broadway
The boutique cycling studio opened at the start of December, making it a perfect way to keep up with New Year’s resolutions. In case you need some motivation to keep up with your fitness, the chic workout space offers classes starting at 6:00 am during the week, perfect to get in and out before work. Check out their schedule online and find a class that works for you!

Opening Soon

Chedda Burger | At The Gateway
The popular burger chain is moving its first location on 600 South, finding a new home at The Gateway. Chedda Burger is known for its clever burger creations utilizing quality ingredients as well as its infamous chedda tots. You can also finish (or start) your meal off with a variety of tasty shakes.

CommonGrounds Workplace | 132 South State Street
Coworking spaces are sweeping the nation, and they are finding a home in Salt Lake City as well. Based in San Diego, CommonGrounds is getting ready to open on State Street just south of City Creek Center. You can work with them to customize your workspace, with plenty of opportunity to scale as your business grows.

Honest Eatery | On Regent Street
You can already find Honest during Jazz games at Vivint SmartHome Arena, but you’ll soon be able to get it more often at its first storefront on Regent Street. Set to open at the end of February, the eatery will offer a variety of healthy food options. Açaí bowls and toasts will headline the menu, with other featured items including Brazilian cheese bread and chia pudding.

Steyk Center | 207 East Broadway
The team behind the Tavernacle Social Club recently acquired the space next door vacated by Now & Again. True to the Tavernacle theme, the name is a play off a Latter-Day Saint stake center as the fare is said to be a mix of “Mormon favorites” and pub classics. We’ll see how this one develops leading up to their anticipated St. Patrick’s Day opening.

The Store | At The Gateway
With an ever-growing residential population, downtown will welcome another local grocer with open arms. The west side will soon be served by The Store, a grocery store well-known for its quality selection, including a number of local brands. The location, expected to open in the spring, will feature a bakery and expanded deli with ample seating space.

Do you know of a new business I missed? Got a tip of one getting ready to open? Let me know at !

Downtown Salt Lake City is alive and thriving as ever! While we recently witnessed the closing of a classic restaurant, The New Yorker, we are continuing to experience the lasting legacy of the vibrant culture it helped to launch many years ago.

Some restaurants have moved locations to allow for larger crowds or more convenient service. Other restaurant groups are opening new locations to keep up with the increasing and evolving demand. We continue to see growth of the dining and nightlife along Main Street, especially between 300 and 400 South. And of course, the folks over at The Gateway are working hard to make it a commercial and entertainment destination on the west side of downtown with multiple openings and announcements in recent months. Many of these openings come just in time for the busy holiday season, but don’t expect them to stop any time soon! We look forward to sharing a lot more with you at the start of the new year.

Recently Opened

Alibi Bar & Place | 369 South Main Street
Alibi is a welcome addition to the resurging “Whiskey Street” section of Main Street. Though quaint, the bright space adds a new vibe to add to your bar route. Its size may mean it fills up quickly, but that could also be due to the selection of inexpensive wines and craft cocktails whipped up by expert bartenders.

Anson Calder | 50 South Main Street (At City Creek Center)
New York-based Anson Calder recently moved the fulfillment and operations of its premium leather goods to Utah. Soon after, the brand opened up an exclusive, experiential retail location at City Creek Center to show off its goods to the public. You’ll be able to witness on-site monogramming as well as demonstrations of burnishing, skiving, sewing, and even leather splitting at the store. Though you can buy online from anywhere, this is the only place you’ll be able to see the experiments and prototypes for yourself!

Button Down | 122 Pierpont Avenue
Sports bar, meet nightclub. Button Down brings together the best of both worlds, featuring an upscale sports bar setting that turns into a nightclub for the weekends. You no longer need to choose between dancing and watching the game! Button Down regularly hosts watch parties and other events, including a weekly Wine Down Wednesday.

Caffe Molise & BTG Wine Bar | 404 South West Temple
One of downtown’s favorite restaurants just got a serious upgrade. You have probably seen the large banner on the side of the historic Eagle Building for a while now, but the renovation is finally complete. In case you’re worried about the loss of incredible outdoor dining, the new Caffe Molise also boasts an impressive patio. The open layout includes a ballroom on the top floor that can be reserved for private events. Head downstairs for BTG Wine Bar, which is sure to please any wine lover.

Christopher’s Prime Tavern & Grill | 110 West Broadway
Another relocated downtown restaurant, Christopher’s has taken over its old location at Peery Hotel. You can expect the same delicious menu with even better service than ever before.

City of Industry | 209 East Broadway
Joining a large number of local shops along Broadway, City of Industry is an outlet for makers and hobbyists. Products range from pins, patches, stationery, and other unique goods you won’t find anywhere else. The store is currently open for business on weekends, leaving plenty of opportunities to find a perfect gift.

The Daily | 222 South Main Street
The Copper Onion team has done it again. The quirky cafe features a simple but chef-driven menu utilizing fresh, local ingredients. The Daily offers an impressive selection of teas, coffee, and cold-pressed juices in addition to gourmet grab & go options. You’ll also want to try the baked goods, which are as tasty as they are beautiful.

Embers Boutique | 281 South Weechquootee Place
Ladies, if you’re looking for some unique flair to add to your wardrobe, stop by Embers in Gallivan Plaza. The small fashion shop has an eclectic selection of clothing and accessories that will surely make you stand out from the crowd.

Kiln | 26 South Rio Grande Street (At The Gateway)
A coworking community originally launched in Lehi, Kiln opened its doors late last month at The Gateway. While surely not the first coworking space in downtown, it has a local touch that will surely appeal to professionals in the city. Private, resident and club memberships provide the flexibility for you to choose how you work. Kiln also has an on-site cafe (see Voro Café below) and plenty of event space, so look out for a number of community events there!

Ramen Bar | 319 South Main Street
This is the second location for the popular Ramen Haus in Ogden. Following on the current ramen trend, Ramen Bar offers an affordable, yet gourmet selection of ramen. You’ll also find an assortment of other Japanese specials, including a delectable honey toast for dessert.

Rugged Grounds Outpost | 29 East 400 South
It may be hard to believe, but this coffee shop came to SLC from Provo. Serving local Great Basin Coffee, Rugged Grounds also offers a selection of tea and kombucha and a basic menu of comfort food.

Salt & Honey Market | 111 South Rio Grande Street (At The Gateway)
Following up on its popular pop-up markets, Salt & Honey recently opened a permanent retail location at The Gateway. The shop curates products from a number of local makers with the goal of helping creative professionals establish their own successful businesses. You can find everything from home decor and kitchen items to jewelry and stationery every day. Also check out special events, such as the Christmas Makers Market.

Sonoma Grill | 110 West Broadway
Another project from the group behind Christopher’s, Sonoma Grill boasts an eclectic, farm-inspired menu. The wine bar offers an impressive selection of wines to pair with your dinner and is available for private events. Its old-world charm is the perfect complement to Peery Hotel and the downtown dining scene.

Voro Café | 26 South Rio Grande Street (At The Gateway)
Located inside the new Kiln space, Voro Café fuses together elements of Italian and Brazilian cuisine for a unique breakfast and lunch spot. The café will offer Campos coffee along with a variety of teas and raw-pressed juices with easy access for both Kiln tenants and the general public.

Opening Soon

Fat Boy Phillies | 400 South State Street
Fat Boy Phillies opened its first location in Murray to rave reviews earlier this year. Now it’s opening shop downtown on the corner of 400 South and State Street. Our mouths are already watering for some nice, juicy cheesesteaks!

Kazé Sushi | 65 East Broadway
The area around Gallivan Plaza is becoming a destination of lunch spots. A new sign for Kazé Sushi can be seen just a few doors down from the recently-opened Ramen930. We don’t know much about it yet, but we are always open to the idea of some good sushi.

Punch Bowl Social | 6 North Rio Grande Street (At The Gateway)
Denver-based Punch Bowl Social recently announced its newest location at The Gateway. The adult playground features bowling, karaoke, and an assortment of other activities alongside craft drinks and artisan food. Get ready for a social scene like you haven’t seen before downtown.

Seabird Bar & Vinyl Room | 11 South Rio Grande Street (At The Gateway)
Have you noticed a trend of “At The Gateway” yet? The diverse mix of new tenants will soon include a fully-licensed bar, a sister concept to the neighboring La Barba Coffee. We hear Seabird will open its doors before year’s end, so keep your fingers crossed for some craft cocktails and rich vinyl tunes this holiday season.

Torrent Cycle (252 East Broadway)
After months of preparation, Torrent Cycle is scheduled for a grand opening on December 7! You may have noticed the pop-up on 400 South, but the new space will be sure to stand out to any fitness junkie. Don’t be afraid to work up a sweat and get your day off to a good start at the boutique cycling studio.

Do you know of a new business we missed? Got some tips of one getting ready to open? Let us know at !

What used to be an unassuming alley in the heart of downtown, home to little more than a few choice parking spots for moviegoers headed to nearby Broadway Centre Cinemas, today Edison Street is flush with some of Salt Lake’s hippest hangouts.

The street is anchored on the north end by Lebanese and Moroccan restaurant Cedars of Lebanon (152 E 200 S, cedarsoflebanonrestaurant.com)—make a reservation for the weekend when kebabs and couscous are served with a side of bellydancing—and on the south end by bar/restaurant Copper Common (111 E Broadway, Ste 190, coppercommon.com). Order a round of craft cocktails (just $6 each, Sunday through Thursday) from the knowledgeable mixologists and nosh on bar snacks and small plates like house pickles, deviled eggs, and shrimp ceviche.

Just around the corner from Cedars of Lebanon is Sailor Taylor Tattoo (215 S Edison St, sailortaylortatttoo.com), the one-man inkery and piercing parlor of artist Taylor Millet. Across the street is Edison’s newest addition: Campos Coffee Roastery &Kitchen (228 S Edison St, us.camposcoffee.com). The urban roaster and java shop is the second stateside outpost of the Australian-based Campos brand (the first landed up in Park City). Friendly waiters with Aussie accents serve breakfast and lunch fare with a dash of Down Under flare—think dippy eggs with toast soldiers, vegemite braised short ribs with tomato sauce—not to be confused with ketchup—and Tim Tam milkshakes. If dessert for breakfast is your thing, try the Australian Iced Coffee with housemade ice cream and whipped cream.

Neighboring Campos is Diabolical Records (238 S Edison St, diabolicalrecords.com). In a world where digital music is king and record stores are an endangered species, Diabolical is on the up and up thanks to their curated selection of indie music on vinyl and tape, free weekly concerts from local and touring bands, and their semi-annual Bandemonium event (July and December)—the willing are randomly paired with a local band and have two weeks to create a five- to 10-minute set, to be performed in the store. Next door to Diabolical is edgy advertising agency Super Top Secret (244 S Edison St, wearetopsecret.com). The speakeasy-like office space lends a dose of mystery and intrigue to the block, but one thing’s certain: the secret is out on the allure of Edison Street.

Dining out is something most people plan and look forward to with anticipation. Whether a celebratory event with family or wine-soaked get together with friends, eating at a restaurant is something almost everyone can relate to and enjoy. But how the final experience shapes up is often as much about the environment as it is about what we order off the menu.

When communal dining debuted in fine dining establishments in downtown Salt Lake in 2012, it seemed more of an edgy trend than a necessity. Fast forward a half decade and how does communal dining sit with Salt Lake residents and visitors now? Are more restaurants sizing up the idea to save space and pack more diners in when possible or have guests rebelled against forced mingling with strangers?

Attitudes toward communal dining seems to be all in the eye of the beholder. Oftentimes, the price point of the restaurant and the time of day can both weigh heavily on the apparent success of the concept, given its longtime prevalence at college pizza joints and barbecue restaurants for decades.

Counter service coziness

When diners stand in line to order food at a counter and then seat themselves—a la fast-casual dining—it’s common to sit next to strangers at a bar or communal table designed to maximize space and ease seating delays. At Siegfried’s Delicatessen (20 W. 200 South) and Beer Bar (161 E. 200 South), the concept couldn’t seem more natural. Sit down with a beer and a sausage and meet some new friends over a lunchtime repast or post-work supper.

Originally opened in 1971 and still Salt Lake’s only authentic German deli, Siegfried’s dishes up wiener schnitzel, bratwurst, corned beef Rubens and more for lunch and dinner. Order cafeteria style and sit at the bar along the window front or at tables located throughout the store. Here you’ll find some of the most diverse diners in the city—from local business people to Europeans shopping for specialty meats and items and everyone in between. 

Utah native Amy Rasmussen says Siegfried’s is the perfect communal dining destination. “The price point and lunch counter definitely make it okay,” she says.

Down the street, Beer Bar also plays off a German-inspired beer garden feel with dozens of beers from around the world on tap and a chef-driven menu of sausages and fries. The interior is almost exclusively dedicated to picnic table communal-style seating to bring people from all walks of life together.

Tim Haran, the founder of utahbeernews.com, a website that strives to share stories important to Utah’s craft beer community, finds the Beer Bar’s communal format enjoyably tees up casual conversation with friends—or strangers. “The fact that Beer Bar has long rows of picnic tables where different groups can sit next to and across from each other makes it easy to strike up conversations over a pint or two,” Haran says. “It’s fun because, for me, the conversation usually starts and centers on beer but then it expands into a variety of different topics such as living in Utah, nearby restaurants, politics and sports. The communal seating definitely helps people gain perspectives they might not get otherwise.”

But as the price point of potential restaurant options rise to the level of fine dining, restaurants like The Copper Onion, Pallet and even White Horse have implemented communal dining for other reasons—and the popularity of the locations may become the determining factor in the seating arrangement.

Share or wait

White Horse Spirits & Kitchen (325 Main St) is a bar and brasserie serving high-end cocktails and sharable dishes. As evening sets, downtown business people and convention goers alike flock there for truffle salted potato chips and buffalo roasted cauliflower—often finding themselves sharing communal tables that front the kitchen in standing-room-only conditions.

Similarly, in the heart of downtown, diners are still lining up to experience The Copper Onion (111 E Broadway), which opened in 2010—and one of the fastest ways to do so is to sit down to a meal with strangers. Chef and owner Ryan Lowder brought the communal dining concept from New York to create an environment more urban in nature in which guests could experience his award-winning and locally sourced American cuisine. Diners regularly find themselves asked to make the choice between a long wait for a private table at brunch, lunch or dinner or immediate seating at the shared table. When that’s the case, a shift in attitude can overcome the lack of intimate space.

“It reminds me of cruise ship dining,” says Sybille Schmidt, a German native who has lived and dined around the world and now calls Utah home. “We always enjoy sitting and meeting other people, light conversations and sometimes it turns into friendships. You never know who you’ll sit with, who you’ll meet or what stories they have to share. It’s for sure not everybody’s thing though.”

Angie Gallegos, who moved to Utah from Michigan to attend BYU in the early 1980s, laughs, “Communal dining reminds me of church and how the pastor makes us turn and greet the people next to you. I don’t enjoy it unless they are more interesting than my current tablemates.” She does, however, enjoy sitting down at a communal table while on vacation. “It’s fun to visit with locals and get advice for other places,” she says, and finds it an intriguing way to get insights about the community.

West-side eatery, Pallet (237 S. 400 West), is one of the best places to commune with the locals. Open for dinner only, Pallet serves creative new American cuisine that’s as intriguing as the 100-year-old building its housed in. Installed at the center of the restaurant are two long, communal tables made from reclaimed wood. The tables were included at the suggestion of the restaurant’s interior designer in the hope that they would urge neighborly interaction and shared experiences with others—but also offers options for larger parties—in addition to patio dining and individual tables surrounding the periphery of the tightly spaced restaurant. With a focal point of the mirrored bar and dynamic design elements, guests at the communal tables are often brought together first by the awe inspired by their visual surroundings.

As Salt Lake continues to grow and attract more residents and visitors each year, time and space at Utah’s best restaurants will remain at a premium. In turn, downtown restaurants will continue to get creative with the most effective way to satiate as many customers as possible while providing an atmosphere that complements the cuisine.

When faced with a communal dining option, Karin Palle, a business consultant and former restaurant owner in Salt Lake City, suggests that guests keep an open mind about the experience. “You need to go into it with a ‘wonder who I’ll sit next to today’ attitude. As an athlete who traveled when I was younger, we never knew who we would sit with and what we would learn. You definitely don’t go to a communal dining experience for an intimate dinner or special occasion. But if you are going to have a lighthearted conversation with friends, I embrace new opportunities to meet people.”

Opening Soon

Torrent Cycle | 15 East 400 South | Currently waiting for their permanent space to be completed, Torrent Cycle is temporarily located at 15 East 400 South.  

Mini Moustachery | 50 South Main | Check out one of City Creek’s newest shops, step inside and enjoy the old school experience of a classic Moustachery.

The Daily | 222 South Main | The Daily is a fast casual cafe focusing on seasonal food, house baked goods and pastries, and quality coffee from Stumptown Coffee Roasters.

Sicilia Mia | 8 East Broadway | According to Salt Lake Magazine, “This is the Italian restaurant Salt Lake has been waiting for!” The downtown location will be opening late October/ early November. 

Recently Opened

Alibi Bar & Place | 369 South Main Street | Enjoy craft cocktails in an intimate setting. Alibi Bar & Place is a great new addition to one of downtown’s densest nightlife hubs.

Button Down Bar & Club | 122 West Pierpont Ave. | Taking the place of Lumpy’s Sports Grill, get your ‘butt on down’ to check out this sports bar meets night club!

Campos Coffee | 228 South Edison Street |  Offering an assortment of in-house brewed coffee and espresso, lunch and a beautiful interior, Campos Coffee has quickly become a local hot spot on Edison Street. 

Core Life Eatery | 50 South Main Street | Featuring green bowls, grain bowls, broth bowls, and made-from-scratch beverages. These hearty salads leave you energized and full, perfect for those eating vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and more.

Este Deli | 238 S Main  | Eleven years ago Dave Heiblim brought New York Style Pizza to Salt Lake. Since its inception, Este Pizza has opened three locations (Sugarhouse, Downtown & Park City) and has won the Salt Lake City Weekly’s readers poll for “Best Pizza” numerous times. Locals and East Coast transplants alike can testify to the authenticity of Este’s offerings. Now Este is bringing “Deli” to Utah, and offering an array of classic sandwiches from the East Coast and beyond. Classics hoagies include the Italian, Cheesesteak, Buffalo Chicken and Chicken, Eggplant and Meatball Parmesan.

Itto Sushi | 12 West 300 South |  With roots in Midvale and Orem, this Japanese Grill and Sushi Bar recently opened another location right in the heart of Downtown.

Post Office Place | 16 West Market Street | Three years in the making, this upscale bar is what Salt Lake City deserves. Stop by for a drink before dinner at Takashi next door, or stay for a full meal with a small plates menu that’s sure to impress.

London Belle | 319 South Main Street | From those that brought you downtown hits like Pleiku and SoCo, London Belle is anticipated to open in the spring. Named after one of Utah’s most high profile madames, it is located near the historic Boston and Newhouse Buildings. Taking the place of SoCo, this upscale bar will feature a diverse menu with unique offerings and craft cocktails. #redlightslc

LaBarba Coffee |  The Gateway | They make one of the best cups of coffee in Utah—and maybe the West. And now, they are moving their downtown location to The Gateway. LaBarba Coffee has announced its newest location in the heart of downtown’s up-and- coming sports and entertainment district..

Ramen 930 Downtown  | 12 West 300 South | From those that brought you Cupbop, Ramen 930 offers hearty bowls of ramen in addition to Japanese comfort classics.

Al fresco dining in downtown will get a taste of old world charm as Caffé Molise and BTG Wine Bar open the doors to their new location at the historic Eagle Building this summer. Partners Fred Moesinger and Aimee Sterling purchased the building, commonly referred to as “the Bay” by locals, after a three-year search for a downtown location to fit the needs of their established, popular businesses. The restaurant and wine bar’s current location is slated for future redevelopment, necessitating a move. With the purchase and renovation of the Eagle Building, Fred and Aimee are creating an iconic gathering space that blends the building’s neo-renaissance style with the celebrated fresh Italian cuisine, warm service and a bright future.

A Tall Order to Update a Historic Building

The Eagle Building had sat for some time in disrepair, and Moesinger’s excitement is palpable as the challenging project approaches the finish line. “It’s a grand old place,” says Moesinger. “Aimee and I are excited to be restoring it to former glory. We’ve been looking to buy a building for over three years, but nothing we saw met all of our needs.” It was important for Moesinger and Sterling to have a downtown location, a building with charm and also a patio—their former patio on 100 South was routinely voted a top patio in the city. “We feel fortunate to have found all those qualities in the Eagle Building,” says Moesinger. “Our business has grown, thanks to the support of our customers over the last 25 years, and we look forward to better serve them in our new space.” The Eagle Building has immense historical significance to the city, listed on both the Salt Lake City Landmark List and the National Historic Register. Upgrades to the building require design review to preserve the historical integrity of the space. The building is chock full of fine details and grand features that characterize its neo-renaissance style, with a nod to Italian roots. Visible markers of the style are the grand staircase, arched windows and openings, exposed brick, Egyptian-style pillars, and its three stories separated by horizontal ‘belts.’

Renovations Moesinger and Sterling had to make include adding an elevator for improved ADA access and service, landscaping and design of the balconies and patio for outdoor seating, and creating separate commercial kitchens for the dedicated menus at each business. The grand staircase on West Temple leads to the main dining room for Caffé Molise; and BTG Wine Bar’s separate entrance on 400 South, under the original antique awning, descends to the three-quarter basement. The upper level includes space for expanded seating, private events and banquets. With a grand patio and two balconies designed with shade and natural finishes, outdoor dining will be available to both restaurant and wine bar patrons. This promises to be an incredible space to while away the summer nights.

Maintaining A Storied History

When it comes to bringing people together over food and drinks, the Eagle Building has a long and varied history in Salt Lake City. Built from 1915 – 1916 to house the Fraternal Order of Eagles, the building was designed by renowned architect Nils Edward Lilienberg. The Order was a social club founded by theater owners in Seattle for those working in the industry to organize, recreate and party while touring the country’s theater cities. Eagle buildings appeared across the country in cities with vibrant theater scenes, including Salt Lake City—home to 12 operating independent theaters, including the Orpheum, Utah Theater and Capitol Theatre. While the Order worked on timely issues, such as labor laws and medical services, it was also known for boisterous parties frequented by touring Vaudeville actors. One can imagine the scene here as the night unfolded with flowing drinks, dancing, card games and underground boxing matches. The Fraternal Order of the Eagles left the building during the Great Depression, then from the 1950s – 1980s, it was home to Equitable Life & Casualty Insurance Company. In the 1990s, the building went through a major renovation becoming the Bay, followed by a decade of revolving dance clubs. Remember Club Vortex and the swimming pool built for Club Splash? Before Fred and Aimee purchased the building, it sat vacant for several years, a ghost of good times past lurking on the corner of 400 S and West Temple.

The Eagle Building was not originally a stand-alone building, as it was part of a vibrant city block, across the street from the famed Newhouse Hotel. The building is a rare survivor from that block and a colorful era in Salt Lake City history. “We are thrilled to see the building renovated and readapted for new use,” David Amott, preservation programs director of Preservations Utah notes. “Improving the future of the building adds to the color and context of the city.”

Menus

The core menu at Caffé Molise will remain the same, featuring fresh Italian cuisine inspired by the Molise region of northern Italy. Look for daily and seasonal specials to supplement the existing offerings. With a commitment to local ingredients and handmade regional specialties, the restaurant has welcomed casual diners, convention goers and groups celebrating special occasions for 25 years in Downtown SLC. BTG Wine Bar will be able to spread its wings and expand offerings in this new location. A Wine Spectator-recognized bar, BTG Wine Bar has an incredible selection of wines managed by sommelier Louis Koppel. Wine is offered by the two-ounce taste, by the glass or by the bottle, in addition to a full bar with crafted cocktails and beer. This is Salt Lake City’s grown-up place to relax for wine snobs and novices alike. In its new space, BTG will have a dedicated kitchen offering an expanded menu of bites and meals. The additional space will host wine pairing dinners, tasting events and wine education.

With construction nearly complete and finishing touches coming together, the project is slated to open this summer. Join the locals and visitors gathering here to embrace old world cuisine in a building brimming with old world charm. May we raise our glasses with a celebratory “Saluti” and enjoy the pleasantries of a Salt Lake City summer night.

404 S. West Temple

Caffé Molise
M-Th 11:30 am – 9 pm
F-Sa 11:30 am – 10 pm
Sun 11:30 am – 9 pm
caffemolise.com

BTG Wine Bar
Every day, 5 pm – 1 am
btgwinebar.com