Discover the Best Restaurants in Utah: A Personal and Easy-to-Follow Guide
Welcome to this friendly, human, and easy-to-follow guide to the top restaurants in Utah. As a state that offers diverse landscapes, breathtaking national parks, and a rich cultural history, Utah has a thriving food scene that caters to various tastes and preferences. This guide will help you navigate the best culinary experiences across the state, so you can savor the flavors of Utah on your next trip.
1. Salt Lake City: A Culinary Hub
As the capital and largest city in Utah, Salt Lake City boasts a vibrant culinary scene with a wide range of dining options. Here are a few must-visit restaurants:
a) The Copper Onion
Located in downtown Salt Lake City, The Copper Onion offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on American cuisine with a modern twist. The menu features locally-sourced ingredients and dishes that celebrate the best of Utah’s produce. Don’t miss their signature Copper Onion Burger or their mouthwatering Ricotta Dumplings.
b) Red Iguana
Red Iguana is a family-owned Mexican restaurant that has been serving authentic Mexican cuisine since 1985. Known for its award-winning mole sauces, this Salt Lake City staple offers a variety of dishes that cater to both meat-lovers and vegetarians. Be sure to try their Puntas de Filete a la Nortena and Chile Relleno.
2. Park City: Mountain Town Dining
With its world-class ski resorts and picturesque mountain views, Park City offers a unique dining experience. Here are two must-try restaurants:
a) Handle
Handle is a popular dining spot in Park City, known for its inventive New American dishes and handcrafted cocktails. The menu changes seasonally, showcasing the freshest ingredients from local farms and purveyors. Don’t miss their famous Buffalo Cauliflower and sumptuous Crispy Duck Breast.
b) High West Distillery & Saloon
As the first legal distillery in Utah since the end of Prohibition, High West Distillery & Saloon is a must-visit for whiskey aficionados. Pair your favorite whiskey with their delicious food offerings, like the High West Burger or the Shrimp & Grits. You can even take a tour of the distillery to learn more about their award-winning spirits.
3. Provo: College Town Eats
Home to Brigham Young University, Provo has a growing food scene that caters to students and visitors alike. Here are two standout restaurants:
a) Communal
Communal is a farm-to-table restaurant in Provo that focuses on locally-sourced ingredients and a community-driven dining experience. The menu features seasonal dishes, and the open kitchen allows guests to watch the chefs in action. Be sure to try their Wood-Fired Chicken or the Seared Trout.
b) Bombay House
Bombay House has been serving delicious Indian cuisine in Provo since 1993. With an extensive menu, including vegan and gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss their Chicken Tikka Masala or the Paneer Makhani.
4. St. George: Southern Utah Delights
In the southwestern corner of Utah, St. George offers a mix of restaurants that cater to the outdoor enthusiasts and travelers who frequent the area. Here are two notable restaurants to check out:
a) Painted Pony
Located in the heart of St. George, Painted Pony is an upscale dining experience offering contemporary American cuisine with Southwestern influences. Known for its exceptional service and elegant atmosphere, this restaurant is perfect for a special occasion. Be sure to try their Grilled Rack of Lamb or their signature Seafood Pasta.
b) The Twisted Noodle Cafe
For a more casual dining experience, The Twisted Noodle Cafe is a local favorite, serving fresh and flavorful pasta dishes, sandwiches, and salads. With a variety of gluten-free and vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss their Pesto Chicken Pasta or the Veggie Delight Sandwich.
5. Moab: Adventure Dining
As the gateway to the stunning Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Moab attracts visitors from around the world. Fuel up for your adventures with these two must-visit restaurants:
a) Desert Bistro
Desert Bistro offers an intimate dining experience with a menu focused on Southwestern and Continental cuisine. Using the freshest ingredients, this Moab gem serves up dishes that are as delicious as they are beautifully presented. Don’t miss their Elk Tenderloin or their decadent Chocolate Soufflé.
b) Moab Brewery
As the town’s only microbrewery, Moab Brewery is the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring the outdoors. Enjoy a cold pint alongside their tasty pub fare, like the Jalapeño Cream Cheese Burger or the Blackened Fish Tacos. And be sure to sample their award-winning beers, like the Dead Horse Amber Ale or the Red Rye IPA.
Utah’s diverse culinary scene offers a wide range of delicious dining experiences that cater to various tastes and preferences. From the bustling capital of Salt Lake City to the picturesque mountain town of Park City, the college town of Provo, the southern charm of St. George, and the adventure hub of Moab, you’ll find mouthwatering dishes that are sure to delight your taste buds.