For many, being served a meal outside feels just a little more special and festive than eating indoors. But following this last year of eating restaurant food out of to-go boxes, we’re anticipating that this season’s return of patio dining will be particularly sweet. Following is a round-up of downtown Salt Lake restaurant patios, decks and sidewalks where you can partake in a fantastic meal or cocktail in the great outdoors. Cheers!       

Upscale Patios, for Date Night or a Girls Night Out 

Exceptional Italian fare with a thoughtfully curated wine list served against the backdrop of a verdantly elegant patio is what you’ll find on the lovely patio at Caffé Molise (404 S. West Temple). Though the opening of its neighbor, the Broadway Cinemas is still TBD, the team at the Copper Onion (111 E. Broadway) are now serving the elevated comfort food they are so well known for both inside and outside on the covered patio.  

Plenty of greenery gives the brick-walled patio at Current Fish & Oyster (279 E. 300 South) a distinctly hip and modern vibe. The seafood-centric menu, well-assembled wine list and creative cocktails there are pretty impressive, too.  

Though certainly outside, the intimate back patio at Eva (317 S. Main St.), festooned with hanging plants and string lights, is a charming backdrop for the well-executed small plates and drinks served there. Scheduled to open nearer to Mother’s Day. 

Bars, Brewpubs and Other Casual Joints

There’s nothing quite like sitting outside in the sun on a balmy day and sipping a perfectly poured pint. If that sounds like heaven to you, then you’ll love the Beer Bar (161 E. 200 South). 

The wooden-slat walled patio at the Copper Common (Broadway & Edison Streets) is an ideal place to quaff a Mountain Medley (the house’s riff on a Moscow Mule) and nibble on an order of roasted beets or a spicy pizza while you watch the world go by on Broadway.

Ginger Street (324 S. State St.) paints a pretty wide brush in terms of the Southeast Asian cuisine you’ll find on the menu at this fun, energetic spot, including dumplings, pad Thai and a French dip/ban mi sandwich mashup.

See and be seen at Gracie’s (326 S. West Temple) fun rooftop deck, where the party is always just getting started. What’s more, an ample and well-executed dinner menu makes Gracie’s an ideal destination for more than just-drinks.   

Though you can get Sunday brunch, lunch, dinner and late-night snacks at the Green Pig Pub (31 E. 400 South), most people go for drinks and one of the Green Pigs many themed event nights, which include trivia, karaoke and a blues jam.

Whether their claim of “the largest outdoor patio in downtown SLC” is true or not, the patio at The Ivy (55 W. 100 South) certainly is roomy, allowing plenty of space to stretch out and partake in one of the mixologists creative cocktails or something from the enticing dinner and small plates menu.

The Staten Island-esque vibe at Maxwell’s East Coast Eatery/Fat Kid Pizza (357 S. Main St), gratefully located in the heart of downtown SLC, is all about hospitality, old school Southern Italian fare and good times. Watch for the outdoor dining to reopen here when the exterior construction is completed later this summer. 

A canopy and hanging flower baskets make sitting on the small sidewalk patio at Red Lotus Bistro (329 S. State St) a lovely way to spend your midday or evening meal. Doing so while sipping this eatery’s kumquat basil seed refresher makes the experience even better.   

A staple of the downtown brewing and dining scene since 1994, Red Rock Brewery (254 S. 200 West) offers consistently tasty fare and expertly crafted beer served on a comfortable, family-friendly patio.  

Those in the know head down to The Gateway to gather around the firepits in front of the hip Seabird Bar & Vinyl Room (7 S. Rio Grande). There you can sip seasonal craft cocktails (or beer and wine) whilst listening to vinyl-recorded tunes.   

The lavash wrap sandwiches, aka doners, are the cornerstone of the satisfying menu at Spitz (35 Broadway). When you go, however, arrive hungry, and consider getting an order of the to-die-for Berliner Fries, too. Along with a cold draft beer or glass of icy sangria, of course.

The enclosed back patio at Squatter’s (147 W. 300 South)—the first brewpub to open in Salt Lake City in 1989—is the ideal setting for sampling a flight of craft beers alongside an order of their famous fish and chips. What’s more, well-behaved dogs are welcome on Squatter’s patio, too.

You’ll forget you’re dining downtown at Stoneground’s (249 E. 400 South) private and protected patio, where you can nosh on New York-style pies and housemade pasta.

Conveniently located next door to Bar-X, the sidewalk patio at Taqueria 27 (149 E. 200 South) is a popular spot to sit under the cheery red umbrellas for margaritas, tacos and an order of housemade chips and smashed-to-order guacamole. 

String lights and pro DJs light up most nights on the huge outdoor patio at Twist Bar & Bistro (32 Exchange Place), located on the historic Exchange Place cul-de-sac. 

For a neighborhood-tavern vibe with satisfyingly excellent food, head straight to Poplar Street Pub (242 S. 200 West)—the perfect spot to watch the game, even from outside on the big outdoor patio. 

Herbivores have no dilemma about where to go for vegan fare, well-made cocktails and live music in downtown SLC: the patio at Zest Kitchen & Bar (275 S. 200 West).

Fast Casual

Precious few eateries in Utah can claim the food-institution status enjoyed by Caputo’s Market & Deli (314 W. 300 South), where you can knock out some grocery shopping after you sit on the Pioneer Park-facing patio eating your yummy made-to-order deli sandwich.  

If you haven’t been to downtown’s midblock thoroughfare between Main and State (bookended by 100 and 200 South), it’s high time you paid Regent Street—aka good-eats alley—a visit. There you can indulge in a delectably drippy fried chicken sandwich and can of rosé at Pretty Bird Hot Chicken (146 Regent St); good-for-you acai bowls, smoothies and toasts at Honest Eatery (115 Regent Street) and authentic Mexican street food at Maize Tacos (135 Regent Street)—all three of which offer sidewalk seating.

It’s starting to feel like we’re in the home stretch of the pandemic with vaccine distribution finally underway. We are looking forward to the summer months when the impacts from the vaccine start to take hold and outdoor dining becomes an option again. Until then, our retail businesses need customers as much as ever. Let’s be sure to support our shops and restaurants to make sure they make it through for us to enjoy after the pandemic!

Recently Opened:

The Ivy | 55 West 100 South
This cocktail bar-restaurant has been in the works for a little while now and was finally able to open its doors recently. It considers itself a modern American bar offering a contemporary, ingredient-led menu. Personally, I’m hoping the falafel waffle tastes as good as it is fun to say, but there are plenty of mouthwatering options available. Look forward to patio season as they are reinvigorating the old Caffé Molise patio, and they’re working on a secluded outdoor space for private events.

Janela Bay | At City Creek Center
Based in Orem, Janela Bay designs stylish but modest swimsuits for all body types. You’ll find a selection of one-piece suits and tankinis, and they even have maternity designs and kids’ suits.

Paper Source | At City Creek Center
This stationary chain opened just in time for Valentine’s Day! Visit to get your hands on custom cards and gift supplies to send to all of your valentines even if you won’t be able to see them in person this year. Of course, you can visit year-round to get everything from custom stationary and calendars to craft kits and party supplies.

Varley | 63 West 100 South
Sister concept to The Ivy, Varley is located right next door. They even share a kitchen so you can order from a selection of the food menu in addition to one of the signature cocktails. The space is outfitted with custom wood tables and other elegant finishes. Varley is brought to you by the folks behind Soundwell, so we expect to see some great live music over time.

Opening Soon:

Ascoli Espresso | 30 East Broadway
Its flagship store is at Pike Place Market in Seattle, but Ascoli Espresso is preparing to open a location in the center of Downtown SLC. You can expect a true Seattle coffee experience as they bring their signature blends and pastries. The coffee shop is expected to open for business next month.

Cotton On Kids | At City Creek Center
Hailing from Australia, Cotton On has proven to be a popular fashion outlet among hip Salt Lakers. City Creek Center is preparing to add a version geared specifically toward an even younger audience.

Edison Street Brewery | 229 South Edison Street
We’ve been hearing rumors for a while about a brewery going in on the east side of Edison. While we still don’t know much about it, we did receive confirmation just last week. You know we’ll share details as soon as we know more!

Karma | 122 West Pierpont Avenue
We recently noticed the signs change on the spot that most recently featured Button Down. It is set to be another nightclub, maintaining the growing nightlife in the area. 

Niccoli’s I 270 South 300 East
I shared this one with you a few months ago, but have since learned more details that it only felt right to provide an update. Behind the Italian market featuring high-quality local and imported goods, Niccoli’s will include a fine-dining space featuring special chef tasting menus. They are planning 3 private suites that will be utilized for special events and available for private functions. There also some unique amenities in the works, like a water sommelier as is trending in many major cities. Niccoli’s is expected to open next month.

Regent Street Restaurant | 126 Regent Street
The team behind Silver Star Café in Park City is coming down the canyon to develop a new restaurant concept in SLC. The space was formerly occupied by Fireside has sat vacant for a while now, but is sure to see new life with this activation anticipated to open by early summer.

Roctaco | 248 South Edison Street
This storefront on Edison has been a work in progress for quite some time. Its Instagram feed features some gourmet-looking taco concoctions. If nothing else, we can appreciate the enormous octopus mural made by local artist Chris Peterson on the exterior! Did I mention there’s a walk-up window?

TruFusion | At The Gateway
The Gateway will soon be home to a 13,000 square foot gym. This will be the first location for TruFusion, a national boutique gym chain with an innovative focus on group fitness and yoga. Situated on the corner of 100 South and Rio Grande, the gym will prove to be a valuable amenity on the west side of downtown as workers start to return to their offices and residential density continues to increase. Keep an eye on The Gateway as we hear there are some other new concepts in the works!

Uniquely Utah Souvenir Co. | 122 South Main Street
Tourism may not be at its peak right now, but Uniquely Utah will be ready for visitors as early as next month. They are working with local artists and businesses to curate a selection of unique merchandise for anyone to bring home memories of Salt Lake City. The store is perfectly situated on Main Street just south of City Creek Center.

Why Kiki | 67 West 100 South
Drive down 100 South and you’ll notice a new pink facade just in front of the Salt Palace. Downtown Salt Lake City will soon be home to a tiki bar called Why Kiki. Their Facebook page features a recently-posted video touring the space, which looks ready to open very soon. It also previewed some tiki glasses, so get excited for some tropical drinks!

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

Ditch the chalky conversation candy hearts this Valentine's Day and head downtown where you'll find top-notch shopping and dining deals to enjoy with friends and loved ones! In addition to scoring some unique gifts and mouth-watering meals, you'll be showing love to our local downtown retailers, it's a win-win. Scroll down to browse downtown SLC's Valentine's Day offers. 

Blue Iguana SLC:

Valentine's Special - Paella for $15 per person. Offer valid from Feb 12th-Feb 15th.  Various drink specials. 

Caputo's Market & Deli:

-Ultimate Date Night - a Caputo's Online Intro to Chocolate class, or any of our other in-person or online classes.
-Downtown location will host The Petal Coop Grab n' Go Flower cart on Feb 13-14. Beautiful bouquets using fresh, local flowers - pick up your chocolate and your flowers in one stop!
-Utah Craft Chocolate Covered Strawberries - Caputo's in-house pastry chef is creating a limited-edition treat just for Valentine's Day - strawberries dipped in three kinds of chocolate, each from a different Utah craft chocolate maker: Solstice, Amano, and Ritual Chocolate. Each Caputo's location will offer the berries, Feb 12-14. 
-Special Valentine's Day-themed Artisan Support Pack starting this Friday, Feb 5 - artisan cheese, chocolate, and more to create the perfect date night in.
-Cheesemongers are always ready to help create the perfect cheese + charcuterie board for an intimate night in. Or, choose one of Caputo's gorgeous composed boards!
-Filled chocolate bonbons by Blue's Chocolates, using local chocolate maker Solstice Chocolate for the exterior.

Charlie Chow's: 

Free dessert with purchase of an entree. 

City Creek Center:

-Kendra Scott - All the Heart Eyes! From Hearts and Arrows to the stone of love, jewelry that will make her say “be mine”. Come shop the Valentine’s Day heart collection today! 
Kendra Scott + Children's Service Society: Supply Drive. Bring a donation to the Kendra Scott at City Creek Center & receive 20% off your entire purchase. See the list below for details.
Personal Items needed: toilet paper, paper towels, deodorant, chapstick, Kleenex, diapers, wipes, baby supplies, feminine hygiene products, toothbrush/paste, etc.

-Kay Jewelers -  25%  - 50% off the entire store. See store for details. February 4 – 15.

-L’OCCITANE - Free gift with purchase of $120 now through 2/16/21. Buy any fragrance from the woman’s line, and pair it with a lotion, receive FREE shower gel and hand cream   ($32 value), 2/5 – 2/13. See store for details

Morgan Jewelers - February 4 – February 27. Shop in-store and save up to 60% off on select merchandise and 25% off on Seiko watches!

Curry Up Now: 

Downtown location. The offer is a 25% discount for Valentine's Day total bill. Does not include alcohol. Must mention code "V14". Offer NOT available online.

Especially For You Flowers:

Stunning Roses, Mixed Valentine Arrangements, Custom Designed for Your Valentine. Order Early, We Deliver Valley Wide and Offer Curbside Service for Your Convenience. Romantic Flower Packages, Flowers, V-Chocolates Heart, Handwritten Valentine Card and Rose Petals. Call for Prices.

The Gateway:

-Bath and Body Works - Mix & Match Body Care: Buy 3, Get 2 Free. Or Buy 2, Get 1 Free all month. Valentines items and scents available now

-‘Bout Time Pub & Grub - Buy one meal, get one of equal or lessor value for free on Valentine’s Day

-Dave & Buster’s - Buy $20 and get $20 in gameplay on Valentine’s Day.

-Dreamscapes - Dine and Dream Special, February 14th only. $5 off each Dreamscapes ticket (up to 2 tickets) for every receipt from any Gateway restaurant.

-Fleming’s - Valentine's Day Lunch Menu February 13 - 14. Click here to see details.

-Gateway Aesthetic Institute and Laser Center - Fotona 4D laser facial - usual price $1500.  Valentines special $1299. Male (Gainswave) and Female (ThermiVa) rejuvenation 15% off - call for details.

-Gradient - Offering a "LOVE YOUR SKIN" package that includes skin consultation, clay mask, custom facial steamer, custom made toner, custom made facial oil. All for $55 vs. actual value of $75 (25% off). Offer valid from February 11-14.

-Mystery Escape Room - 20% off tickets with the code 'LOVE20' from February 10-16. Only valid for bookings with a minimum of four tickets

-MidiCi The Neapolitan Pizza Company - Couple's Special. Feb 12th - 14th. 2 pizzas or 2 calzones, 2 side salads and 2 soft drinks. Dine-In only. 20% off all Take-Out for the month of February.

-The Store Fine Foods Market & Deli - Selection of Valentine’s candy, cookies, etc. Heart-shaped Filet Mignon and other meat items.

-Tresor Jewelers - February 1st-February 15th, 40-50% off select items. Free small gift with any purchase. Free jewelry cleaning and inspection.

-Tucanos - February 13th – February 16th. Click here to see details. 

-Urban Arts Gallery - Valentine’s Day Art Sale, February 14th Only. 20% off all art 

-White Agent Bridal Boutique - Feb 1st – February 15th, 15% off select dresses. Free piece of jewelry with purchase of any dress.

Settebello Pizzeria:

Valentine's Day Special - Share an insalata, choose two pizzas from the menu, share a gelato - $40.

Stoneground Italian Kitchen:

Click here to view Stoneground's offer.

Takashi/Post Office Place: 

For the first time ever, Takashi will be open on Sunday!  That's right, this February 14, Takashi will be offering curbside take-out with some "lovely" specials available!  OR, diners over 21 may enjoy a romantic meal at Post Office Place, which in addition to Takashi's menu will feature some potent specials to help celebrate love. Advance orders for Takashi take-out are highly recommended.  (We had to cut off orders on New Year's Eve due to such high demand). Post Office Place will serve Takashi menu until 9:00, and then offer a limited menu until close.

More details to follow on Instagram:  @takashi_slc or @postslc

Winter Market at The Gateway:

In addition to the freshest produce, meats and cheeses in the State, you can pick out unique handmade gifts from local artisans at the Winter Market at The Gateway. The Art & Craft Market is located in the north end of The Gateway in the old Apple space near the water fountains.

Know of a downtown business that should be added to this list? E-mail us at

Each year, the Downtown Alliance recognizes extraordinary contributions to downtown’s vitality, safety and livability with the Downtown Achievement Awards at our annual State of Downtown event. Acknowledging the challenges that many faced in 2020, these award winners rose to the top in the Downtown Alliance’s nomination discussions.

Each of the 2020 Downtown Achievement Award recipients exemplifies what we can solve, accomplish and create when we work together,” said Dee Brewer, Executive Director of the Downtown Alliance. “Our downtown is better because of each of their contributions."

2020 Achievement Award Winners:

Fourth Street Clinic - Improving the Lives and Health of Homeless Utahns
For over 30 years, the Fourth Street Clinic has served homeless Utahns. Each year, the Clinic provides primary care, dental, behavioral health, specialty care and pharmacy services to over 5,000 homeless men, women and children. In 2019, the Clinic launched a state-of-the-art mobile healthcare unit that brings the clinic’s services to clients at eleven locations including Salt Lake's three homeless resource centers. In 2020, Fourth Street Clinic was on the frontline of COVID-19 screening and testing for individuals experiencing homelessness and completed over 8,000 tests. View Fourth Street Clinic's video profile below: 

Caputo’s Market & Deli - Exemplary Leadership and Innovation During the Pandemic
Downtown restaurants and retailers felt an outsized impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The healthy flow of typical customers--downtown workers, event patrons, and business travelers was reduced to a trickle. As businesses scrambled to adapt to safely serve guests, Caputo's Market was exemplary in their quick adaptation. They recognized the health imperative to do business differently. They reassigned employees and communicated their safety measures and service adaptations to customers. View Caputo's video profile below. 

Plan-B Theatre - 30 Years of Amplifying Diverse Utah Voices   
Since 1991, Plan-B Theatre has produced unique and socially conscious theatre created by Utah playwrights. Plan-B nourishes our local community of playwrights. It develops relationships with playwrights rather than just developing plays. Plan-B represents the many faces of Salt Lake City. View Plan-B's video profile below.

Domain Companies & GIV Development - Progressive Mixed-Use Development at Avia and Mya
Avia and Mya are two distinct buildings in one impressive new Transit Oriented Development that is successfully balancing attention to design, carbon neutrality and affordability.  The mixed-income environment leverages diversity as a key amenity at this downtown mixed-use, mid-rise development. 

GIV has developed successfully in the Salt Lake market over the last decade. Domain Companies is bringing new energy and capital to Salt Lake. This is Domain’s first project in the West. View Avia and Mya's video profile below.

Bill Knowles - Downtown Construction Ombudsman 
At the Downtown Achievement Awards, the Vasilios Priskos Honors were presented to Bill Knowles, Downtown Ombudsman. Bill Knowles has been an ombudsman for construction mitigation on key downtown developments over the last 25 years. These include the Eccles Theater and 111 Main office tower, the original TRAX construction and currently, 95 State tower. View Bill Knowles' video profile below.

Whether you treated yourself with some Downtown Dollars or received them as a gift during the holidays, there are plenty of ways you can spend your Dollars and support local businesses! Featuring dozens of downtown bars, restaurants and retailers - this electronic gift card can be spent at many of your favorite downtown merchants. Simply show your eGift Card on your mobile device OR printed card number at participating retailers to use.

Click here or the map below to see where you can spend your Downtown Dollars.

Shop, eat and gift local this holiday season with Downtown Dollars! Featuring dozens of downtown bars, restaurants and retailers. This electronic gift card can be spent at many of your favorite downtown merchants and is a great gift for your besties (including you!). Simply show your eGift Card on your mobile device at participating retailers to use.

Bonus Bucks are funded by a Shop In Utah grant and can be spent just like Downtown Dollars at all participating businesses. Click the button below to purchase your Downtown Dollars and browse participating businesses. 

*The Bonus Bucks offer expires 12/31/2020, or when available funds run out. Purchased Downtown Dollars do not expire, but the extra Bonus Bucks must be spent by 5/31/2021.

Don’t see your favorite downtown business listed? Have them contact to enroll as a participating business!

Buy Downtown Dollars!

FAQ

How can I purchase Downtown Dollars and receive Bonus Bucks?
Click on the "Buy Downtown Dollars" button above. When you purchase your Downtown Dollars in eligible amounts, you will automatically receive Bonus Bucks to spend at your favorite merchants.

How does the Bonus Bucks pricing structure work?
Purchase $50 or more in Downtown Dollars, get $10 in Bonus Bucks!

Where can I spend Downtown Dollars?
Downtown Dollars can be spent at any participating downtown business. You can view the list and map HERE. More businesses are being added all the time! Click here to add your business.

How can I purchase Downtown Dollars and Bonus Bucks for someone else or give them as a gift?
When purchasing Downtown Dollars, you enter the recipient’s name and email address to send directly to them to redeem, or you can send the eGift Card to yourself and forward the information to them. You have the option to send your original Downtown Dollars purchase and the extra Bonus Bucks to separate recipients.

Do Downtown Dollars and Bonus Bucks expire?
The purchased value of your Downtown Dollars do not expire. Bonus Bucks must be used by 05/31/2021 After 12 months of inactivity, a $3 fee will occur monthly.

Fall is making its presence known in Downtown SLC, but the cooler temperatures do not mean the retail openings are slowing down. We’ve got plenty of new activity going on, and expect to see even more going into the holiday season. Of course, we are still in the middle of a pandemic, and these establishments are opening up with safety precautions in mind from the get-go. 

Don’t forget our retail and restaurants need your business now more than ever. You can learn more about Shop In Utah offers from some downtown businesses making it even easier for you to support them. Keep an eye out for some new opportunities we’ll be launching soon!

Recently Opened

Café Juniper | 29 East 400 South

This coffee shop is nestled just off of Main Street below Exchange Place. In addition to a classic menu of hot (and cold) drinks, Juniper offers an array of goodies from local artisans. With doughnuts from Mad Dough and pies from Pie Party, you’ll definitely want to save room for a treat to accompany your coffee!

Curry Up Now | 152 East 200 South

We’ve been patiently waiting for the opening of Curry Up Now downtown so we could see what the franchise out of the Bay Area has to offer. The innovative menu is worth checking out, with Indian spins on everything from burritos to poutine. The fast-casual setting makes it perfectly accessible whether you’re looking for a date spot or just some tasty food after a night at the bars. You’ll also want to check out the incredible mural on the side of the store.

Fat Boy Phillies | 400 South & State Street

The second location of this cheesesteak joint has been a long time coming. The original location in Murray is hugely popular, and now you can get your fill of the Philly sandwich downtown as well. As the name suggests, you shouldn’t expect too many healthy options here, but if you’re looking to satisfy a late-night craving, this may just hit the spot.

Gather Fine Wood | 133 South Rio Grande Street

This recent addition at The Gateway offers a selection of beautiful wood creations, from furniture to knives. Their store is a showroom of unique works of art, or you can go next door to HallPass to experience their creations. If you’re looking for a masterpiece to add to your home or business, Gather has your answer. Keep an eye out for some small private group showings or make an

Mortar & Pestle | 152 East 200 South

This bar concept is brought to you by the folks behind Curry Up Now. Featuring a separate entrance off Edison Street, Mortar & Pestle is outfitted with cozy seating perfect to reserve for a work event or other small gathering. You’ll have access to some of the delicious food from Curry Up Now as well as a curated selection of Indian-inspired craft cocktails.

On the Blade Barber Co. | 11 East 400 South

The need for a good haircut certainly doesn’t go away with the pandemic. This new barbershop is perfectly located just off Main Street, making it an easy spot to schedule an appointment during your workday. 

Wild Coyote Tattoo | 217 East Broadway

I missed this one in our last roundup, but Wild Coyote opened this downtown location on July 4. For now, they are requiring all clients to wear a mask and schedule an appointment, making it the perfect spot if you’re looking for some quarantine ink. Take a look through their social media pages to see work from some of their artists.

Opening Soon 

Graffiti Bao | 153 South Rio Grande Street

HallPass at The Gateway is partnering up with fellow Vegas-based concept Graffiti Bao. The menu is expected to feature a variety of bao buns, dumplings, and rolls along with an assortment of entree options. Graffiti Bao’s chef will also be joining the HallPass team to help update some of the other existing concepts in the food hall, making the experience even better than ever.

The Ivy | 55 West 100 South

One of Downtown SLC’s best patios was lost when Cafe Molise moved to their new location. Well, it looks like it’s coming back to life with The Ivy. Brought to you from the team behind Soundwell, this is sure to be a restaurant experience worth checking out.

Niccoli’s | 270 South 300 East

After years of renovations and changed plans, we can’t wait for this space to finally see some action. We’re still learning more about Niccoli’s, but it bills itself as an “Italian Restaurant & Market.” We’re looking forward to seeing how it comes together!

The Varley | 63 West 100 South

Historically a bar space, this newcomer shares a back-of-house with The Ivy. The Varley is also a concept from the Soundwell team, so there’s a chance we’ll see some live shows and other interesting activations here. More details to come.

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

Recent rule changes now allow downtown restaurants and bars to add seating in adjacent outdoor (or indoor) areas. Retailers can also activate additional space. The intention is to allow businesses more physical space to operate under health guidelines that require physical distancing among patrons and workers.

“Downtown restaurants have been innovative in adapting their operations and implementing health safety guidelines. But to achieve physical distance standards between diners, restaurants have reduced their guest capacity by 40 to 70 percent. We are hopeful that many restaurants can expand their safe seating under these new provisions,” says Dee Brewer, Executive Director of the Downtown Alliance. 

Downtown Alliance has been working with other economic development and business associations in support of provisions that would let businesses expand their footprint for service.

Mayor Mendenhall’s Emergency Proclamation No. 11 temporarily relaxes rules throughout  Salt Lake City. The Utah Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (DABC) also temporarily amended regulations to allow alcohol service in those outdoor areas. 

This week, 117 downtown restaurants are open with dine-in and/or take-out service. The number of open downtown restaurants has grown each week since May 9. Some customers are dining in restaurants. Some are dining on restaurant patios.  Some are picking up their favorite meals and picnicking at Gallivan Center, the State Capitol or other nearby public spaces.

Related Articles: 

Utah Gives Restaurants A Break for Alcohol Service Outdoors  The Salt Lake Tribune

Salt Lake City restaurants, shops cheer as mayor allows them to expand into parking areas, side yards during coronavirus The Salt Lake Tribune

Downtown SLC's local businesses are an integral part of our local economy as they add vibrancy and walkability to our downtown streets. As businesses continue to open their doors amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the health and safety of customers and staff remain top-of-mind. We asked several businesses how they're faring and what they are doing to adapt to the current situation. 

We encourage you to support our local businesses during this time - be sure to check out our restaurant dining guide that features take-out, delivery and dine-in options.

How was your business impacted by COVID-19?

Salt Lake Power Yoga: We closed our business effective March 16. We went from offering 65+ Live classes a week to offering less than 20 classes on the virtual platform. We opened again with one live class per day on May 18, and are continuing to host the virtual classes.

Caputos Market & Deli: It is a challenge to describe the innumerable ways our company has been impacted by COVID-19. Entire revenue channels vanished, as our restaurant wholesale customers shut their doors, our dining rooms closed, and our popular tasting classes disappeared. Almost a hundred employees' livelihoods weighed heavily on our shoulders, while we were faced with a fraction of the ability needed to provide for them. Sales in our markets (which remained open for shopping) plummeted. So many sleepless nights. In spite of these incredible challenges, the global pandemic also presented opportunities - for example, our online grocery business skyrocketed. The strength and adaptability of our crew became widely apparent as chefs became delivery drivers and cheesemongers became packers for online orders. The 4-per week average tasting classes that disappeared soon were resurrected with online Zoom classes, now reaching people from coast to coast. To put it simply, it's been heartbreaking, indescribably stressful, but full of silver linings.

What changes have you made to adapt to the situation over the past couple of months?

Boltcutter/Monkeywrench: The biggest change that we have made to adapt to the current situation was to design and install large panels on the storefronts of Boltcutter and Monkeywrench so that we can take orders and deliver food to our guests without having them inside of our space. We also built out online ordering platforms for Buds, Boltcutter and Monkeywrench which is not something we had available to our guests prior to COVID-19. Learning how these systems function and how to utilize them to best serve our guests has been a new challenge.

The Bourbon Group: The Bourbon Group has taken a safety/sanitation first approach. We are following all state guidelines and have taken extra steps as a company to minimize risk to our staff and guests. We ask each guest to sanitize before entering and provide them with a mask to wear while communicating with our staff. We professionally sanitize each establishment 3 times a week as well as having staff sanitize every surface every 30 min each day. We have also started to take reservations in order to be able to control our door and eliminate people having to wait for tables.

How have you adapted your operations to ensure the health and safety of your customers and employees?

Boltcutter/Monkeywrench: All of our employees work in masks, we have increased our sanitation protocols and we are not allowing any dine-in customers. We made and installed pickup windows at Boltcutter and Monkeywrench to reduce air exchange between the staff and customers and allow for contactless customer experience. We are now a cashless operation too.

Salt Lake Power Yoga: Everything was revamped. We remained closed longer than required because we didn’t feel like it was appropriate to open without thoroughly reviewing every aspect of our business, with the safety of our staff and students always at the forefront. Required masks, signage, communication, social distancing, traffic patterns inside the studio, cleaning and disinfecting protocols, and limiting the capacity to a maximum of 18 students in the practice space (normally our capacity is 65 ppl) are examples of some of the pivots we have made with COVID. We have been in constant communication with the Salt Lake Health Department to ensure that we are doing everything in our power to provide a safe space for people to practice yoga.

How do you see your business continuing to develop into the future?

Caputos Market & Deli: Many of the things we put in place to survive during the pandemic will allow us to thrive long after it is over. For example, online ordering for local delivery of sandwiches executed by our own drivers rather than 3rd party delivery app will remain. Shipping of groceries via USPS and FedEx has been even more popular than local delivery. Customers can order online in all 50 states and expect free and fast shipping and the same incredible customer service they get in our physical stores. Our online sales are now larger than in-store and growing quickly! We have also moved our classes online, and while many others have also done this, ours include samples of the food shipped to your door and a truly engaging and educational experience. The response has been so incredible that we envision using Zoom to change the way specialty food is sold online. For example, why have a personal shopper, when you can talk with a cheesemonger? We are developing a virtual work station at Caputo's cheese counter where our mongers can guide online customers to delicious products that fit their preferences and needs. Just like the experience, they would get when standing at the cheese counter in Salt Lake City, but then shipped to their door anywhere in the USA! 

The Bourbon Group: We have always had a high standard for sanitation and safety. We will continue to adapt, improve and implement new and better policies and practices.

Why should people start to come back to your business now they are allowed to do so? 

Salt Lake Power Yoga: Now more than ever, people need the practice of yoga. The practice of coming to their mat, staying in the stillness, moving their bodies and connecting with breath, other students and their teacher. We invite everyone to practice with us, whether it is from their own home or in the studio. Local studios like Salt Lake Power Yoga will make it through this crisis with support from our incredible community. Spending your dollars on our classes or on our retail goods flows directly to the teachers you love and will help keep the light on in the studio many call home. Now more than ever, small local businesses need our support. 100% goes stays local. No franchise, or corporate contracts with this local studio!

Caputos Market & Deli: The same reason they always have - out of love for the good stuff. Many of the foods we treasure most - artisan cheese, salumi, tinned seafood - has been around for hundreds of years, through world wars, natural disasters, and other global pandemics. We are committed to doing our part to ensure these traditions continue, and continually adapting in order to share how special they are. Caputo's is built on connection to our past, our present, our future, and our customers. We hope people will come to our shops (in person and online) to experience the food traditions we strive to preserve.

Special thanks to Boltcutter, Caputos Market & Deli, The Bourbon Group and Salt Lake Power Yoga for participating. Learn more and visit these businesses by clicking the links below:

• Boltcutter/Monkeywrench
• The Bourbon Group (Bourbon House, Whiskey Street, Whitehorse)
• Caputos Market & Deli
• Salt Lake Power Yoga 

Hosted 5-14-20 by Local First and Downtown Alliance

View the video of the discussion here

Key Takeaways and Comments:

Many establishments are open for business. To ensure everyone's health and safety, local practices include:

• Utilizing 3rd party delivery services, on-line ordering, and curbside pick up options
• Applying strict safety and cleaning protocols such as:
  • Signage throughout highlighting safe social distancing and cleaning practices
  • Directional travel-one way in, one way out
  • Strict cleaning and sanitation practices
  • Keeping logs for the health department that include temperature checks and sanitization practices.
  • Taking employees temperature when arriving to work
  • Utilizing QR codes, customers can simply scan the QR code and view the menu on their phone in lieu of paper menus
  • Separating work spaces for employees to allow for social distancing
  • Requiring employees and patrons to wear masks and providing them to those that arrive without one
  • Creating plans to open dining, gathering, and venue areas at reduced occupancy.

Communication is key for both consumer and employee confidence. Local practices include:

• Including checklists with take-out orders that identify safety and sanitary practices taken while preparing orders.
• Communicating with employees all the steps taken to keep them safe at work.
• Respecting those employees that don’t feel safe to come back to work.

Some businesses are choosing to stay closed! Reasons are:

• Workspaces too small to accomodate safe social distancing practices
• Safe social distancing practices not practical or economically viable
• Bringing back furloughed employees too soon too risky and expensive

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is in high demand. PPE information:

• PPE Pushpack Program Launched to Help Small Business Jump Start COID-19 Transition
• PPE Resources and Vendor List

Some business owners advocate for sealed “to-go” cocktails. Reasons include:

• Businesses sitting on expensive inventory and no ability to recoup costs
• Offering sealed cocktails with take out orders is an opportunity for increased sales

Comments from business owners regarding Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), and bringing back employees include:

• Round 2 of PPP funding was deposited Wednesday, so now we’re figuring out how to get employees back to work which is challenging.
• We applied for the PPP for the second time and received word recently that we got it. I’m still hearing various concerns on the PPP from our accountant, lawyers and bankers so we plan to hold off dipping into it for the time being. Pre-Covid we had 16 on staff and have 8 willing to come back to work should we open on the date we had in mind.
• Extension of the 8 week PPP use to 16+ weeks would be very helpful. Having to reach the 75% + rehiring the equivalent of FTE is impossible when the health department has criteria that limits us to less than 40% capacity — IF we were to reopen we would incur the extra PPE costs. Most importantly, the customer confidence is at about 19% for dining in. We furloughed 64 ppl on March 17th.

Re-Opening Round Table Discussion with Salt Lake City Independent Breweries & Distilleries.

Hosted 5-14-20 by Local First and Downtown Alliance.

View the video of the discussion here

Breweries and Distilleries are taking safety precautions seriously. Local practices include:

• Tours, tastings, and purchasing- By appointment only- some plan to keep this practice on-going
• Frequent sanitization practices
• Providing PPE to employees and customers
• Those with seating are strategizing on safe reopening practices.
• Some suggested it as a safe option for those that don’t want to wait in line at the liquor stores

Notes:

Supply chains are compromised, ethanol and other products used in botanicals are in reduced supply due to market demand for hand sanitizer and plant closures internationally.

One business owner suggested that DABC practices are not friendly to local producers, and less-expensive national products are prioritized. Prioritized placement of cheaper products contributes to a drinking culture of overconsumption by adults and minors.