A look back at the Utah restaurants and bars that closed in 2025

As promised, it’s time to kick off those end-of-year round-up folks. Get ready for a slew. Let’s start by ripping the band-aid off – the bad news. In case you missed any of these during the year, here’s the in memorial recap.

Alibi

Taking to Instagram, this cocktail-forward bar (pictured top) signed off, writing, “Alibi will be permanently closing its doors on Saturday, March 22nd. This is not easy news, and we have loved serving you, making memories with you, and being a part of what makes the Salt Lake City bar scene so special.

We hope to see everyone in the coming days to say goodbye & get a few more of your favorite classic Alibi cocktails, and a couple more selfies in the bathroom (we’ll miss the wallpaper.)

We love and appreciate each and every person who’s spent time inside our space, and have some exciting news about what’s next for 369 Main Street coming soon!”

Alibi opened in the Fall of 2018, bookending the South end of this stretch of Main Street – a hot spot for restaurants and bars. Per the business’s farewell note, it does sound like something new may be in the works for the spot, though perhaps from new owners.

In this piece by Axios, co-owner Mike Askerlund confirmed the space has been sold to new owners. The Axios piece also underlined that other businesses in the group would go on unaffected; The Green Room (another bar in downtown SLC), and The Pearl (still cranking out impeccable cuisine courtesy of chef Tommy Nguyen). The Pearl recently scooped a prestigious dining award from SL Mag.

Aquarious Fish Company

Terribly disappointing news for seafood lovers in the state, as one of the backbones of the food scene announced its closure this year. Per a snap shared over on Reddit, the nearly quarter-decade-old Aquarious turned off the lights at the end of September. The picture shows a note posted at the business that reads:

“Aquarius fish company will be closing after 24 years of service. Our last day will be Tuesday, September 30. We will miss serving the community, but we will miss our loyal customers and friends most of all. We sincerely appreciate and thank you for your patronage over all the years. Aquarius fish company Dan & Julie.”

The closure announcement comes almost a year to the date that Beltex Meats also announced its departure. I make that note pointedly as Aquarius are to wahoo, what Beltex was to wagyu – incomparable and peerless in the state. Many will ask who to turn to after the lights go off, and frankly, just like Beltex, there is no immediate corollary. At least not for the home chef, looking for an eclectic product line-up, handled with expertise and care. The selection has sent many a fan into lyrical waxing.

Atlantis Burgers – Redwood

Pictured is the former West Valley City location (3505 S Redwood Rd) of Atlantis, taken earlier in 2025. The location quickly bounced back as Pompeyo Burger Grill before ultimately settling as Si si Columbiana. Atlantis’s locations in North Salt Lake and Kearns remain open by the looks of things.

Ballard’s Iceberg Drive In

ABC4 had this detailed piece on the closure of the Draper business after 65 years. ABC4’s article explains that owner Don Ballard is retiring alongside his business. The restaurant closed on October 4th with a farewell event for long-time patrons.

Barbacoa 9th and 9th

Don’t panic. The Fort Union, South Jordan, and Olympus Hills locations of this popular local Mexican restaurant remain open. Sadly, though, as reported by Sean Means in the Trib, the 9th and 9th location of the business has now closed after a nearly twenty-year run in the spot.

Beard Papas

This national brand with two Utah locations announced its closure this year. A social media post explains, “Utah friends we are sad to announce that we have closed our Utah locations. We had a great time serving you up with delicious cream puffs! Thank you for trying us we truly appreciated it!” The Japanese-based chain, known for its cream puffs, had two locations in the state – Sugar House and South Jordan.

Bow Tie Creamery

Signing off on Instagram, this local ice cream business confirmed both locations (SLC and Ogden) would close at the end of August. The post reads, “After many great years, we’ve made the difficult decision to close Bow Tie Creamery, both locations. Our last day of business will be Saturday, August 30th. It’s hard to say goodbye to this chapter in our lives. This shop has meant so much to us, and it’s been an honor to share it with our community.

Between now and Saturday, we’d love to see you one more time. Come by, grab some ice cream, and celebrate with us.Thank you for supporting us, cheering us on, and making Bow Tie what it is. We couldn’t have done it without you.”

Brass Smoothies

This 9th and 9th staple also signed off via socials. While saying goodbye, the business also signalled a small chance of a return in the future, should a suitable future location become available. Here’s the full post:

“To all of our amazing customers at Brass and the wonderful 9th and 9th community, After so many wonderful years of blending, serving, and sharing countless smiles, the time has come to say goodbye. We will be closing our doors on Christmas Eve, and while this decision is bittersweet, I want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to each and every one of you.

From the first smoothie we served to the friendships we’ve built along the way, you have been the heart and soul of our journey. Your support, loyalty, and the joy you’ve brought into our shop have meant the world to us. We’ve cherished every moment of being a part of your lives, whether it was your daily smoothie ritual, special celebrations, or those moments when we shared a laugh together.

As we close this chapter, we do so with full hearts, thankful for the memories we’ve created and for the incredible community we’ve had the privilege of being a part of. We will forever carry the spirit of these years with us, and we hope that you continue to carry a little piece of us with every sip, smile, and kind word.

Thank you for making these years unforgettable. We will miss you more than words can say. Ps. There is a small chance we could reopen in the future if I happen to find the perfect location. So if anyone knows of some good spaces feel free to shoot us a message on here.”

Cafe Niche

Kolbie Peterson in the Tribune reported on the closure of this long-term business. I’m not aware of an official release online regarding the closure, but as the local Reddit has pointed out, various online platforms like Google and Yelp now list the business as closed. In Peterson’s weekly Utah Eats newsletter, she reported a notice posted at the business reading, “It has been an honor to be part of this community, and we will truly miss being your go-to spot for delicious food and warm conversations”.

Cancun Cafe – Fort Union

A reader dropped me a note about the closure of the Fort Union location of CC this year. Fans of the Mexican restaurant can still enjoy their cuisine from the venerable Millcreek/Murray location (885 E 3900 S).

Charlotte Rose’s Carolina Rose BBQ

After some six years at their Millcreek spot, this long-lived BBQ restaurant took to Facebook to confirm October 25th would be their last day offering dine-in. The business wrote, “Hey everyone. Saturday, October 25th will be our final day as a restaurant. We will be a catering only business after that. We cannot adequately express our gratitude for your support over the years. We look forward to catering your next event. Thank you!”

The restaurant opened at the spot back in 2019, an expansion from an original location in Bountiful. Per the social media update, CRCRBBQ will live on via catering.

Chubby Baker

Several local businesses chimed in on this Instagram sign off, lamenting the loss of the popular bakery. The three locations of the Chubby Baker closed on November 9th, with owner Ying Nance explaining:

“It is with a heavy heart that we share this news — Chubby Baker will officially close on November 9th. (All 3 locations)

These past years have been filled with love, growth, and countless sweet memories. But with the rising costs of goods, payroll, and so many other expenses, it has become increasingly difficult to sustain the business.

On top of that, as our family continues to grow, I’ve realized how much time and energy this business takes — time I want to spend with my little ones. I am a businesswoman, but I will always be a mom first.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every visit, every kind word, and every bit of support along the way. You’ve made this journey so special, and I will forever be grateful for the love you’ve shown Chubby Baker.

Please come visit us before our final day to enjoy your favorite flavors one last time, and come support and show our team some love for the last time.

For these last couple of weeks, we’ll be focusing on donuts and cakes.

Croffles and cinnamon rolls will be available while supplies last.

With all my love,
Ying & The Chubby Baker Family”

City Creek

It was all change at the City Creek food court in 2025. Bocata, the popular sandwich shop, and sister restaurant to the equally popular Settebello closed up shop. Discussions on the local reddit indicate a return somewhere else in the city might be on the cards. Edit: Zimbu remains open at the food court, simply moving spaces as part of the reshuffling of vendors this year.

Coterie

You might recall this spot opened up in the former home of Good Grammar (69 Gallivan Ave). It too has now made way, as owners Shaleen Bishop and Fallan Keyser (the duo behind the Post District’s Melancholy) pass the baton on to new stewards.

SLC Pub is the new business for the Gallivan Avenue location and promises a bar centered around a love for movies (the central area is now remade with comfy sofas and a big screen). Cincinnati chili dogs appear to be the central focus on the food side of things.

Delicatto Pizza

November 15th was the last day for this Orem pie shop. The restaurant was seen offering customers the following deal to mark the event on Facebook“

“Come enjoy this special day with us. Delicatto pizza will be closing the doors today and we want to give all our clients a special gift. Buy 2 large pizzas get a dessert pizza for free!!! After all this time serving you, we wanna use this last day celebrating with all our special clients. Come visit us . See you soon! We’ll be open until 10pm.”

Further inspection of their socials indicates that a new Brazilian concept, Jequitiba, will be moving into the space shortly.

Current Fish & Oyster

Current Fish & Oyster in downtown Salt Lake City has sadly announced their closure this year. The final service occurred on November 8th. A message posted on the restaurant’s Instagram stories today simply reads:

“Farewell Salt Lake City. Final day November 8th 2025. Thank you everyone who was a part of this wonderful journey.”

The restaurant first opened way back in the Spring of 2015, overhauling a historic, brick building that housed the only Ford dealership West of the Mississippi from 1900 to 1940. I’m here all week fact fans. The revamp saw North of a million bucks poured into the eye-opening update, the ground floor alone affording seating for 100 diners. At the time, the restaurant was a collaboration between Mikel Trapp (Cafe Trio) and the La Salle Group (Oasis Cafe, Faustina, Kyoto, Caffe Niche) and sought to fill a noticeable gap in the dining market at that time – a modern seafood restaurant amidst an ocean of sushi options.

The no-expense-spared approach went through to the launch team, too – a who’s who of talent at the time. Logen Crew (formerly Fresco) was the inaugural chef, with the talented Alexa Norlin (formerly Cafe Trio, Fresco) on pastry. Wine whizz Jimmy Santangelo and Amy Eldredge (one of the city’s first cocktail powerhouses, and formerly at Bar X) headed up the drinks side of things. Crew recently rejoined the team, which neatly brings the story full circle in a sort of poetic way.

You’ve probably heard the idiom about “you should have seen the dining scene here 5 years ago”. Take it from me, Current was a big, bold, ambitious must-visit when they opened the doors a decade ago.

Quickly after news broke that sister cocktail bar, Undercurrent, would also close. As for what comes next in the space, Current confirmed, “A local restaurant group will be opening a Japanese-Peruvian concept in early 2026 in our beloved space, continuing the tradition of great food and hospitality.

Deadpan Sandwich – Sugar House

2025 saw this excellent sandwich shop downsize from a brace of locations to just one. Deadpan’s Sugar House location is now closed, but fans can still find them in operation at their original Woodbine Food Hall (545 West 700 S) location in SLC. The announcement on Instagram read:

“To our wonderful customers & community, as the new year begins, it brings with it a time for reflection and renewal. Deadpan has experienced an incredible amount of change since opening just over two years ago, and after much thoughtful consideration, we have decided to close our sugar House location indefinitely. We believe this is the right step, and by refocusing our energy into our original location at woodbine food hall, we want to continue delivering the exceptional quality and experience we’ve been passionate about since the beginning. Through this change, we aim to deepen our commitment to our Craft, our team, and to you-our lovely customers. Thank you for being a part of this chapter. We hope To see you soon at woodbine! With gratitude and warm wishes for the year ahead, taylor & emily Co-founders of deadpan sandwich”.

EastWest Connection

News on this one broke via a Salt Lake Tribune article, confirming the East side business was close. Located at 1400 Foothill Dr, the business was first opened some twenty-five years ago in 2000, and in later years was purchased and operated by chef Takeyasu Nunokawa.

El Tonga Tacos – North Salt Lake

This was the year I had hoped to bring you news about this extra special taco spot, but alas, owner Teodoro Cruz called time on the business’s initial efforts this year. The business posted the following message on Instagram, indicating their final service this past Sunday, March 9th:

“It’s with a heavy heart that we are announcing the closure of our restaurant. While we had hoped to continue serving you, it’s just not possible for us to stay open at this time. One of the biggest pieces of feedback we received was the desire for a dine-in space, and we completely understand. We had hoped to find a new location that could offer that.

We do want to take this moment to say thank you. Thank you to everyone who supported our business — whether you placed an order, shared a post, or recommended us to friends and family. Your support kept us going. A special thank you to the influencers and creators who took the time to feature us and help bring in new customers. Your efforts made a real difference, and we appreciate every single one of you.

While this is goodbye for now, we hope to be back in the future, in a space that allows us to better serve you. Until then, thank you again for all the love and support.”

El Tonga’s Cecina and Arabe proteins were magical stuff . The former, air-dried beef with a tremendous depth of beefy and smoky flavor, the latter, a Pueblan-Middle Eastern fusion. Magical, sublime stuff. Also on offer, Cochinita Pibil (achiote enameled pork) and Birria with guajillo and consteno – both top drawer. Likewise, the accompanying salsas, each rich with complexity and nuance.

…but…

Promising news was announced in this article back in August, with El Tonga returning in limited fashion to the U of U campus. Now I’m not saying you should sign up for a four-year degree just to taste those tacos, but…

Este Pizzeria – Downtown SLC

The downtown location (156 E 200 S) of Este announced their closure poststing on Instagram, “we regret to inform that we will be permanently closing Este Downtown, our final day will be Saturday June 21st. A special thank you to everyone who visited us and made our days special, thank you so much!” The update appears to affect only this location, with the popular pie shop remaining in place in both Sugar House and Park City.

Fiesta Ole

Kolbie Peterson of the Tribune reported that this Kearns (4098 W 5415 S) mainstay has now closed. According to this FB post, the business, of more than four decades, closed on September 6th.

Frankie And Essls

This excellent breakfast sandwich shop suffered a flooding disaster that shuttered its SLC location (490 E 1300 S) for part of the year. While the business initially indicated it hoped to return quickly, a formal closure was ultaimely announced on Instagram. The post from the business reads:

“With a heavy heart, we are announcing that we will not be reopening. Frankie & Essl’s was built out of a love for you and all your wonderful idiosyncrasies, it’s why we even included you in the name (E.S.S.L Egg Sandwiches Salt Lake). It’s unfortunate that the store’s ending happened the way it did, but hey, you can’t control everything. We thank you for allowing us to be a part of your community. We’re grateful we were able to work alongside such a wonderful crew, especially our manager, Michele, who was with us before the doors even opened and deserves all the credit for the aioli and sausage egg and cheese you have all come to love. As well as with the best vendors, especially our partnership with @labarbacoffee and @eats_bakery who each took the time to help us elevate the customer experience, along with many other local bakers and makers. And lastly, we thank all our customers, especially our regulars who have been with us from the very beginning, it was you who kept us going during the new days, the slow days, and the hard days.

Salt Lake, we thank you, we love you, and we hope that you strive to help small businesses succeed in this ever challenging environment.”

The restaurant opened in 2023 and was often lauded as one of the best, if not THE best breakfast sandwich shop in the city. Pictured top is one of their sandwiches, image courtesy of the always fabulous Salt Plate City. Here’s my colleague Lydia Martinez waxing lyrical on their efforts over in SL Mag.

Fried Rice Express

Nothing formal as such on FRE (358 S 700 E) but plenty of online discussion, with several readers and Yelp and TripAdvisor seeming to concur.

Garage On Beck

After a storied 16-year run, the bell has been rung for last call at the much-loved Garage On Beck. “There are a number of different factors”, explained owner Robert McCarthy, “but ultimately, our lease is coming to an end in the not-too-distant future. Probably, the business wouldn’t be able to continue at that point. This feels like the right time to bow out gracefully, and raise a few last glasses with our regulars.”

Opening in 2008, McCarthy’s vision for the historic spot was an eclectic roadhouse, a gathering place where everybody would be welcome. That inclusive vibe would reflect the history of the bar’s location – former Swede Town – a historic area known for embracing all. “I wanted to be that bohemian bar on the edge of town, come one, come all”.

The business opened initially under the name Yellowstone Garage, a nod to the bar’s position on Route 89 (that wends its way North to Yellowstone). Taking over the reins from the former Jimax Lounge the business would make its home in a former garage (opening circa 1947); previous tenants have run the gamut, everything from a UDOT facility to an Alfa Romeo dealership.

The name wouldn’t last long, mind you. A certain Bad Brad Wheeler would query out the less-than-reflective name. “You’re on Beck, why don’t you just call yourself Garage On Beck?” The rest is history, well, part of the history. Fires would wreak havoc on the business in both 2013 and 2023. Each time the bar would bounce back stronger, drawing bustling crowds for the mix of live music, one of the city’s best patios (pictured top), and yes, those deep-fried funeral potatoes.

It’s a bittersweet end for McCarthy, a serial name on the Utah hospitality scene. Arriving in Utah from upstate New York in 1992, his first Utah outing would be the nightclub Jam. The excellent Italian restaurant, Stoneground Italian Kitchen would come next in 2000. His most recent outing was the respectful update of Juniors Tavern, now known as Bobby Juniors.

Images provided courtesy of the business.

Happy Teriyaki

The South Jordan location (5474 W Daybreak Pkwy) of this Japanese chain has also now closed. The larger group, which operates nearly a dozen stores in Idaho, still has one location in the Beehive over in Pleasant Grove (1882 W Pleasant Grove Blvd).

J Dawgs – Logan

The Logan location (505 E 1400 N) of the popular dog shop is no more, closing up shop in April. The Logan Foodies Facebook group tipped me off to this one. The business, of course, has many remaining stores up and down the Wasatch as well as concession outlets at six local arenas and venues.

Joe’s Crab Shack

The national chain that operated in Utah out of Sandy’s (65 E 9400 S) Jordan Commons has now gone. The business’s website no longer lists a Utah outpost, and Google lists the restaurant as permanently closed.

La Frontera – Brickyard

The venerable Millcreek location of this well-known Mexican eatery is no more. Google lists the business as permanently closed, with the website for the business also offline. A glance at the Google reviews suggests the new Smothered Burrito in West Valley City (and downtown SLC) might be a business by the same owners; I can’t find anything official to support that mind you, so take it with a pinch of tajin for now.

Las Botellas

Over in Riverton (pictured top), and also calling it a day, an Instagram post simply reads:

“Effective immediately, Las Botellas is closed. We are endlessly grateful for every guest, every shared meal, and every moment that made Las Botellas feel like home! Thank you for your love, loyalty, and memories- We will cherish them always! The Las Botellas Team”.

The business first opened back in the Spring of 2023, and was billed as “a high-end, Mexican-inspired experiential restaurant with heavy emphasis on entertainment. Offering guests an exclusive opportunity to enjoy food prepared by a Michelin star experienced culinary team while enjoying live music, fire dancers — and so much more.”

Laziz Kitchen – Downtown SLC

The downtown Salt Lake City location of Laziz Kitchen announced its closure, writing on social media:

“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of our 2nd south location along with the BackDoor. @backdoorslc

Living bill to bill is tiresome, food costs have become unsustainable, construction for years on end and the ever changing economy. All while trying to do right by our team, our guests and doing something we felt proud of. This decision came with a lot of internal bargaining and a desperation to continue providing a space and food to a community we deeply love. However our care and commitment doesn’t always translate to dollars and cents. October 21st will be our last day in operation, so during this next few weeks, come see us, eat with us one last time and spoil our amazing team that have been with us through many twists and turns and send them off on to their next adventures.

We hope when these doors close, that our remaining location (912 South Jefferson Street) can continue to be a staple in the community and beat the odds of an industry that is suffering. Thank you all”

The attached 21+ bar BackDoor, located to the South of the restaurant, also closed too. It was a little under a year ago that the Midvale location of Laziz closed too. The Mediterranean-inspired restaurant is now survived by the original Central 9th location, which itself opened in 2017, one of the first tenants to take a gamble on the now bustling neighborhood.

Keep an eye on the spot in 2026 – it looks like the Mint Sushi team is launching a new concept in the combined spaces next year.

Loco Burger – SLC

The vivid yellow facade of this burger biz in SLC (1702 S Main St) has now been replaced by a more sedate grey. While I’m not aware of any formal announcement from Loco on the closure of its Salt Lake location, the aforementioned respray comes courtesy of the new tenants for the spot – Beast From The East.

The Beast is Kris Davis’ ode to the East Coast via way of bread, cheese, and a grill. His signature sandwich shop has until now been operating out of Holladay’s Cruzrs Saloon (and will continue to do so, according to the company’s social media) and has been scooping up plenty of accolades along the way.

Loco Burger – massively loaded Mexican-inspired burgers – lives on, though, with another location over in Kearns (5470 S 4220 W). According to the Trib’s Sean Means, the owners are actively searching for another location at this time.

Louk’s Baby Donuts – American Fork

Louk’s outpost in American Fork (541 S 500 E) is sadly no more.

Matchstick Bar & Grill

It was roughly this time two years ago that I wrote about this Chinese restaurant in West Valley City. Opening in the space (2000 W 3500th S), once home to names like El Pariente, Noodle & Chopsticks, and Pho Green Papaya. OMO Korean BBQ was the most recent restaurant to star prior.

Sadly, the business closed. I was a big fan of the restaurant and will miss their piece de resistance – Chinese BBQ skewers – arriving tableside coated in a slightly embering spice blend. Tin foil tofu was another standout, an eminently affordable dish at the ten-dollar mark, arriving at the table exactly as described. A foil tub packing a wriggling and jiggling morass of tofu and glass noodles.

Mestizo Coffeehouse

This stalwart, with almost twenty years under its belt, closed in 2025. The following Instagram post detailed that September 27th would be the last date for the coffee shop, hosting a final goodbye bash.

Mochinut – Sugar House

After a three-year run in their Sugar House spot, Mochinut confirmed the closure of the location (2142 S Highland Dr). The restaurant’s specialty was mochi donuts (pictured top), a fusion of American and Japanese flavors. The announcement on Instagram reads, “To our valued Salt Lake City community,⁠

After much consideration, we have made the difficult decision to permanently close our Sugar House location, with our final day of operation being Friday, August 15.⁠
⁠
We’re incredibly grateful for the support, loyalty, and memories shared over the years. This city has meant so much to us as our first location, and while we’re sad to say goodbye, we’re proud of the community we built together.⁠
⁠
Our other locations remain unaffected. Please stop by this week and help give our dedicated staff the send-off they deserve.⁠ Thank you, Salt Lake City, it’s been an amazing journey. “

The Sugar House area has undergone a fairly tumultuous few years, restaurant and bar-wise. In the past couple of years, Beard Papas, Sugar House BBQ, Deadpan Sandwich, By The Bucket, The Locker Room, and Trolley Wing Co have all departed.

The Peppered Vine

Opening at Sandy’s Union Square back in early 2024, The Peppered Vine was the work of Le Cordon Bleu grad Renee Poe; her menu of fresh-cooked meals spanned everything from homemade meatloaf and piri chicken through to English curry and chips, and cottage pie. Poe penned the following goodbye, announcing the closure:

“After much thought, tears, and heartbreak, I’m deeply saddened to announce that The Peppered Vine is closing.

This journey was a ginormous effort — fueled by love, purpose, and the hope of creating something beautiful for my community and my children. I’m proud of what was built, and grateful beyond words for those who believed in me.

Together, we proved that beautiful food made with love, care, and real ingredients CAN be done.

But it’s a hard world out there. Expectations are higher than ever, while costs of food, rent, utilities, and labor keep climbing. As a small business owner, I’ve given everything — every ounce of energy, every dollar, every late night — trying to make it work.

I’ve fought the good fight for nearly two years. We stood tall with 4.9 stars on both Google and Yelp — that takes heart, perfection, and persistence. But even the strongest momma eventually runs out of gas. And this momma is tired.

It’s time for me to choose my children first. They’ve sacrificed so much, and now it’s my turn to be there for them — fully. I started this for them, and now I’m closing it for them.

To my customers and friends who’ve shown me love, grace, and compassion — thank you. You’ve been my village, my encouragement, and my reason to keep showing up. Maybe one day, The Peppered Vine will bloom again in another life. 

My last day of business will be Saturday, November 1st. Place your online orders early if you’d like one last delicious sandwich or creation — limited quantities until supplies last.

From the bottom of my heart — thank you for every hug, kind word, and bit of love you’ve shared on this journey.

Eat Well. Live Purposefully. Love More. — Renee

Pier 49 Pizza Draper

The Draper location of Pier 49 has also turned the lights off. A Go Fund Me campaign launched by the business had the goal of bringing the business back to a new spot in the city. The campaign states that:

“After 30+ wonderful years in Draper, our family business has lost its lease. This is a bittersweet moment, but we are not giving up. We love Draper, and we want to stay right here in the community that has supported us for so long. We’re working hard to move into a new building so we can continue everything that makes Pier 49 special—our fresh sourdough pizza, our bingo nights, and the many memories we’ve shared with all of you.”

Pizza Bar

This spot on downtown SLC’s Regent Street announced its departure via Instagram story. The brief message read, “To all our followers Sad to inform you all. As of Saturday Sept. 27th The pizza bar on Regent St. has permanently closed its doors. Thank you all for your support.”

Pizza Bar opened this Summer in the spot once home to Finca Pintxos Bar (Fenice and also, Fireside On Regent before that). The business was the three-way collab of restaurateur Scott Evans and chefs Brandon Price and Chef Phelix Gardner. Under the new moniker, the focus for Pizza Bar was Pizza al Taglio and neo-Neapolitan style pies, giving new life to the restaurant’s Valoriani pizza oven (which goes back to the Fireside restaurant, I believe).

As far as I know, this doesn’t affect the Pizza Bar option over at Sugar House station (pictured top), which remains open.

Policy Kings

After starting life in Cedar City back in 2018, this Utah brewer has now signed off – at least for the time being. The brewer had completed a move North to Salt Lake City, earlier in the year, migrating to new digs in the larger Central 9th area. An Instagram post from the business reads:

“Sad news today, after fighting, arguing, proposals, we still were not able to work it out with the landlord. PK is officially closed. When we started this journey back in 2018 we knew it was a gamble we were taking.. when we made the choice to relocate up to Salt Lake, we also knew it was a gamble. That is the life of every small business owner. Go out and support multiple a day, they all need it. Thanks to the many who came and loved what we had for the time we were here. We are still fighting the landlord on the legal end, so the go fund me is so important in helping us with that. We are going to fight in court, but we can’t stay open while we do that. Please donate and help out. We will NOT be open this weekend as we pack up.”

The business’s social media page links to the following Go Fund Me.

Red Tacos – Lehi

The following Instagram announcement explained the closure of their Lehi location, on March 15th:

“We want to thank you lehi city for all the love and support but we have decided to close store after months of going back and forth. Orem and Lindon will remain open normal hours. Lehi City last day will be March 15 2025 ”

The RUIN

Another fine name, and also calling it quits over on Instagram. The post reads:

“We’re grateful for this community. To everyone who has walked through our doors and shared part of your journey with us, thank you. This isn’t farewell; we’re excited to create something new for SLC in the coming months. The Ruin has been a passion project for us, but sometimes shaking shit up and exploring new ideas is essential. We look forward to reconnecting soon. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your support over the past decade. Our last day is after service, April 5th. Be sure to swing in, say hello, and say goodbye.”

The RUIN initially sprang to life in Sugar House along Wilmington Avenue, quickly becoming known as one of the better cocktail options in the city. A move to downtown SLC’s Main Street (159 S Main St) followed in recent years, the bar most recently hosting a series of popups from the likes of chef Kevin Finch, and the talented Nohm / Remora / Water Witch team. Per the businesses signoff, it sounds like we’ve not heard the last from them though…

Sal Y Limon

Opening in Spring earlier this year, the Midvale taco spot was launched by the folks behind Sol Agave and Blind Rabbit. In recent weeks, the business had signalled new ownership, but sadly, the restaurant has now confirmed its permanent closure.

The Instagram post from the business reads, ” Dear Valued Customers, We want to sincerely thank you for your support and for giving us the privilege to serve you. It has been an honor to share our food and hospitality with this community.

The restaurant is now permanently closed. Please stay connected with us on Instagram @salylimonmoderntaqueria for any future updates. From all of us at Sal y Limón, Thank you for the memories, the meals, and your loyalty.
We appreciate you! The Sal y Limón Family”

Senor Pollo Mexican Grill – Downtown SLC

After a short stint in the heart of Salt Lake City, this location (170 S Main) has now been replaced with the new Italian restaurant, Galeano’s.

Shanghai Cafe

I initially filed this one under maybe. Speculation on this Reddit thread seemed to suggest that the long-lived Shanghai Cafe in SLC (145 E 1300 S) may close at the end of July. According to the discussion, the site in question will be redeveloped, with the owners of the restaurant taking the opportunity to retire after more than three decades in the business.

In the Utah Eats newsletter (over in the Trib), Kolbie Peterson reported a manager at the restaurant confirmed the final date of business as July 27th. Peterson also noted that the closure was related to the redevelopment of the lot for a new apartment buildout. This presumably means that other businesses in the plaza will be similarly affected.

Tandoor Grill – Millcreek

This long-lived East side Indian restaurant confirmed plans to shrink its footprint with the following Facebook post, “It is with great sadness That we will be closing our location in millcreek and moving to our location in holladay. We will remain open until Sunday september 28th”.

The spot along 3300 S. has operated for as long as I recall. Our own records here on GSLC stretch back some eighteen years, and the business has been around at least that long. The update sees the business move exclusively to its spot along Highland Drive in Holladay, which opened in 2018.

Trolley Wing Co

The Sugar House location of this popular wing-focused eatery closed earlier in the before also confirming that Taylorsville and Midvale would follow suit.

Posting on Facebook, the more than 25-year-old TWC called time on their remaining locations in town. The business wrote:

“Goodbye. After years of pouring drinks, swapping stories, and making epic memories under these dim lights, Trolley Wing Co. will be closing its doors for the last time on July 26th at our Taylorsville location and August 3rd at our Midvale location.

We’re heartbroken to say goodbye—but we’re also deeply grateful. This bar was never just about the booze. It was the familiar faces at the same stools every week. It was first dates, last calls, broken hearts, and laughs till you cry. It was where strangers became regulars, and regulars became family. Where we cheered, cursed, and high-fived through every season. Where wings were always hot, beers were always cold, and the vibe was always just right. It was home—for so many of us. A safe space to escape reality on either side of the bar.

Thank you for being part of this wild, beautiful ride. Whether you were here once or a thousand times, you helped shape this place into something unforgettable. For every “just one more” round that turned into hours of laughter. You made this place magic.

Come by before we turn off the neons for good. One last drink, one last story, one last basket of wings, one last night to remember. With all our love, The Trolley Phamily.”

Founded in 1999, the final closures represent something of the end of an era for one of the most long-lived names on the dining scene. Per the name, the business was started in humble settings – taking up home in a former trolley car at Trolley Square.

Wasatch / Squatters @ 300 W

The production facilities, tap room, and beer store of Wasatch/Squatters (1763 S 300 W) closed in May – the beer lines moving to out-of-state operations. The company announced the news on socials writing:

“Honoring our legacy, brewing for the future. Sister breweries, Squatters & Wasatch are making a move to grow distributiand bring you great beer throughout Utah and beyond. To support our plans, we will not renew the lease on our Salt Lake City brewery, taproom and beer store and will close at the end of May with production transitioning within our brewery network.

Rest assured; your favorite Squatters & Wasatch beers will remain available throughout our forever home state of Utah! Come raise a glass with us before May 23rd, when we will say goodbye to 1763 S. 300 W.”

To confirm this does not affect brewpub locations in town. Indeed, if you missed the news back in 2023, the likes of the downtown Squatters brewpub and Sugar House’s Wasatch are now ran and owned by Salt Lake Brewing Company. At the risk of repeating myself ad infinitum, be sure to read this story which explains the full story.

Windy’s Sukiyaki

The following Facebook post from this Ogden Japanese restaurant recently announced the business’s closure. The post read, “We are sad to announce Windy’s Sukiyaki will be closing its doors permanetly after end of business on Friday, September 26. This decision didn’t come easily, but due to a challenging economic environment we can no longer continue operations. We invite you to visit us this week to enjoy your favorite dishes and allow us to say goodbye in person. Thank you for supporting Utah’s oldest Japanese restaurant. We will miss serving you.”

Val Phillip’s excellent Chew and Chat blog has this story on the closure of this Ogden staple (with a link to a previous interview with the business owner). After more than five decades in the community, September 26th was the final day of business for the eatery.

Opening way back in 1974, the restaurant has operated under several owners, the latest undertaking several improvements, such as expanded hours, a full liquor license, updates to the building, and POS systems.

Picture credit top, Valerie Phillips.

Wriggles

This Milcreek spot signed off, writing on Facebook, “A Heartfelt Goodbye from Wriggles. After 25 wonderful years, Wriggles will be open for its final day on November 15, 2025.

Serving this community — and so many of you from near and far — has been one of the greatest joys and honors of our lives. We’ve laughed with you, grown with you, and shared countless memories that we will cherish forever.
It’s incredibly hard to say goodbye, but we are so grateful for every visit, every smile, and every bit of support you’ve shown us over the years. Thank you for letting us be a part of your lives. We hope to see you all before we close our doors. With love, Wriggles”

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• Best of SLC 2024 – what you can’t miss in the Beehive right now.

Stuart Melling

Hi, I’m Stuart, nice to meet you!  I’m the founder, writer and wrangler at Gastronomic SLC.  I’m a multiple-award winning journalist and have written in myopic detail about the Salt Lake City  dining scene for the better part of seventeen years.

I’ve worked extensively with multiple local publications from Visit Salt Lake to Salt Lake Magazine, not least helped to consult on national TV.   Pause those credits, yep, that’s me! I’m also a former restaurant critic of more than five years, working for the Salt Lake Tribune.    I’m largely fueled by a critical obsession with rice, alliteration and the use of big words I don’t understand.   What they’re saying about me: “Not inaccurate”, “I thought he was older”, “I don’t share his feelings”.

Want to know more? This is why I am the way I am.