More than 150 Utah restaurants opened this year – how many have you tried?

It’s that time of the year folks – my look back over everything new and notable to open in Utah this year. Restaurants, bars, cafes, bakers, virtual delivery business – the whole thing. Every last new potable and consumable from 2024 should be on this list.

Actually, if you really want to turn your brain to mush I did the same thing in 2023, 2022 and 2021 – rounding up another 500+ openings.

The following snippets were all culled from their various mentions in this year’s new restaurant coverage. I’ve made some slight updates for better readability but apologies in advance if the language is clumsy and clunky in parts (something, something 12,000 words). Anyway, let’s get on with it. I give you then the A-Z of what’s new and notable in Utah’s food and drink scene in 2024, starting with my favorite new opening of the year.

Felt Bar & Eatery

Richard Romney is the name behind this new one for downtown’s Main Street. The name will sound familiar to many – Romney being the long-term GM of Takashi and Post Office Place. After some eighteen years of working for the award-winning Japanese restaurant, Romney has now gone solo partnering up with chef Travis Herbert on a completely new venture. In doing so the duo are looking to reboot the space vacated by Pago On Main. The restaurant joins the buzzy strip of Main that features names like Whiskey Street, White Horse, Bodega, and more.

The interior of the Felt Building space (341 S. Main) has been given a notable refresh, the former restaurant’s central kitchen area has been torn down, and in its place, a more convivial bar counter seating area. Licensed as a 21+ only bar that means you can enjoy Felt for just drinks, snacks, or a full-blown meal. Maybe all three. Here’s a fuller preview piece I wrote on the business back in Spring.

Aker

Aker is another new name for Main Street, taking over the digs once home to Maxwell’s. Earlier in the year, the Downtown Alliance’s Joshua Jones wrote, “Digging in further we found they’ll specialize in Japanese cuisine, specifically robatayaki (think small, slow-grilled skewers over charcoal). An upscale atmosphere will transform into an ‘alluring contemporary lounge’”’ in the later evening. They seem to have the money to bring something special to market, so we’ll keep spying on the space!” Aside from that, I also stumbled across these renders of the interior from what looks like an architecture/design business involved in the project.

Alhambra

Following on from the launch of a food truck in November last year, Alhambra’s promise of “the best shawarma in Utah” is also now available at this new brick-and-mortar location (3965 W 5400 S) in Taylorsville. Shawarma on offer comes in a variety of styles including falafel, beef, chicken, and mixed meat. Loaded fries round out the mix. The City Weekly’s Alex Springer reviewed the business in this piece.

Arempas

South Towne Mall (10450 State St) makes for a quartet of locations for this Venezuelan restaurant. Those looking for pabellon, patacon, or arepas now have options all across the valley. With the opening Arempas now operates locations in SLC, Midvale, Orem – as well as this new Sandy location.

Arigato Sushi

Chef Juan Dalle is the name behind this new West Jordan (1769 W 7000 S) Japanese eatery. Accompanying a large selection of maki rolls are several dishes with international fusion – Japanese-inflected antojitos, and a lineup of bao to name two.

Asher Adams

The lights are now on at this ambitious new hotel on the edge of downtown SLC’s The Gateway. Based around the historic Union Pacific Depot building, 200+ rooms are served by a collection of bars and restaurants. The launch team sent me the following quick notes on what to expect from the three core restaurants and bars:

• Rouser – upscale American cuisine, Rouser will serve New American fare cooked in the kitchen’s Josper grill, oven, and rotisserie, which is run off charcoal and inspired by the coal-fueled train engines
• The Bar –  Inspired by nostalgic cocktails from the golden era of train travel, this lavish bar will be the perfect place for locals and guests alike to grab a drink and linger longer
• No. 119 – an upscale whiskey-forward bar on the second floor overlooking the Grand Hall (rendering pictured top, courtesy of Asher Adams). Guests can set the soundtrack for their experience at The Gandy Dancer, the stylish vinyl lounge located en route to No. 119

Atlantis Burgers

After a swift change of paintwork and signage, the former Porky’s (Cantina/Tacos) has been replaced on the corner of 3500 South and Redwood. In its place, a second location for Atlantis, doubling its charbroiled footprint from the original North Salt Lake location. I’m not going to weigh in on the debate of Crown vs Apollo vs Astro vs Atlantis vs the rest of the Greek-informed burger stops in the city – but if you’ve yet to try theirs – here’s one more pastrami burger to check out.

Ay Güey

Meanwhile, across the valley in South Salt Lake, Ay Güey moves into the former home of East Coast Subs on State (3490 S). The menu is one of Mexican pizza (al pastor, birria, and mole are all options for your pie), tortas, birria, and wings.

Bar a Vin

This brand-new wine bar is equally open to the “seasoned sommelier or a curious novice” alike, sporting a collection of 120 wines “by the splash or glass”. The bar on State (917 State S) utilizes 15 Wine Emotion units to ensure each wine is dispensed at the ideal temperature. Light pairing bites of charcuterie and pizza are also served.

The Bambino

A new pizza spot in Midvale (7692 S Main) and one that had the local Reddit all fired up. The menu features a dozen pies that start from $12. Salads, sandwiches, and a few small sides join them. Fun fact: Bambino uses organic 00 flower milled in Collinston (Tremonton) sourced from Utah and Idaho wheat.

Bartolo’s

This Station Park opening (895 W E Promontory) makes it three for Alex Barolo’s Italian eatery. You might recall that the Park City location came first, followed by an outlet in the greater Sugar Hood some years later. The new Davis County opening follows a similar blueprint, a menu centered around pasta bolstered by entrees such as cioppino and trout almondine.

BASTA Pasteria

Speaking of pasta here’s one more in Murray (6151 S State) to add to the bubblin’ pot for carb lovers. “House-made pasta and champagne at a casual price” is the headline item, brought to you here at the Fashion Place Mall by the folks behind the Sicilia Mia group of businesses. Surprisingly this isn’t the first quick service concept to serve up bubbles – a timely reminder for you that Pretty Bird offers Dom Perignon too. Do invite me should you tap the option at check out.

bb.q Chicken

Now open in South Salt Lake’s Chinatown facility (3490 S State St) – this new Korean Fried Chicken concept coming to South Salt Lake. A variety of the fried stuff packs the menu: whole chicken (wings, breasts, and thighs), boneless, and traditional wings. I believe this is the first Beehive location for a chain that operates stores from East to West.

Beijing Chinese Restaurant

As Sugar House continues to transform, so does the roster of businesses along busy 2100 S. Head to 777 E and you’ll now find this Sichuan-informed Chinese restaurant. Cumin-flavored lamb, steamed fish head with diced hot red peppers, Chengdu rice crispy seafood stew – just some of the listed chef specials on the menu.

Best Ever Burgers

You have to admire the name, one that sets out the mission clearly and boldly. Early signs are promising from what I hear. Numerous people have told me of very solid experiences at BEB, and the concise menu of five burgers ($8.99 – $9.49) speaks to a laser-focused effort. A reminder, I take burgers, very seriously.

Bhansa Ghar

Now open in the building once home to a location of Kathmandu (250 W 2100 S). The menu piqued my particular greedy interest, replete with several dishes I’ve not encountered on South Asian menus in Utah to date. Chicken do pyaza was a favorite personal dish of mine before calling Utah home, relying on a double dose of onions to provide layers of sweet flavor.

The restaurant debuted on February 29th with a buffet spread featuring no less than 29 different selections. After some 100+ reviews on their Google review profile, the business maintains a five out of five rating – no mean feat.

Through 2024 this became one of my regular haunts. I dove into several menu highlights in this story before waxing lyrical about the charms of their gongura chicken later in the year.

Bistro Carbon

This WVC Mexican restaurant (3952 W 3500 S) comes from some of the folks behind the popular La Casa Del Tamal, according to Axios. Dishes include tacos, and enchiladas, which both feature popular proteins birria and pastor. Also on offer, a lineup of burgers that genre fans should note includes a pastrami burger too. Hands up who just idly dreamt about a birria-strami burger…

Bix

A second location of Lavanya Mahate’s cafe is now open in the Gateway (inside coworking space Kiln). You might recall the first location came to South Salt Lake in 2023 – I recapped the menu and concept of Bix in this story.

Blacksmith Ice Cream

Head to Millcreek (1295 Miller Ave) for the second location of this artisanal ice cream parlor. Blacksmith’s name alludes to their unique preparation which begins with fresh cream poured onto a frozen anvil, From there? “We combine all of our ingredients together with the cold cream on the frozen anvil until it freezes. Once frozen, we roll the ice cream into small batches to get it ready for serving.”

Blind Rabbit Kitchen

Aimee Cook penned this story earlier in the year, recapping the details behind this new Sugar House (1080 E 2100 S) steak house. The ritzy new restaurant is the work of the same team behind downtown SLC’s, and Utah County’s Sol Agave.

Boba Guru

Hat tip to the excellent Salt Plate City that sent me this pic of a new boba spot in downtown SLC (55 E Broadway). Opening up alongside Kaze Sushi, the outpost is the second for the company that also operates a West Valley City spot.

Bonnie & Clyde’s

A new “1930s-inspired cafe serving coffee, pastries, salads, and sandwiches” in downtown Salt Lake. This Spring should also see the business add an after-hours speakeasy-styled bar as well. Sandwiches tackle familiar favorites like the club, and turkey pesto.

Brabo Pizza

Another new pie option for you, this one in Millcreek (246 E 3900 S), and also one with a qunie twist. The business notes that, “Passionate about pizza, Adriano Souza has been sharing the authentic flavors of Brazilian cuisine. Each ingredient is carefully selected to highlight the bold flavors and unique combinations of artisanal ingredients. Discover how each slice of pizza is a unique cultural experience.”

Therein the Brabo menu features creations such as the Brabo with fresh tomato sauce, pepperoni, mozzarella, catupiry (Brazilian cream cheese), sliced red onion, oregano and extra virgin olive oil.

The Bros Cuisine

There’s something to be said for singular focus. A laser-like beam of direction often brings precision and unwavering execution – especially so when it comes to food. Enter stage right this new commissary-based business that presently cranks out just one dish. That solitary dish is currently only available one day each week too – Wednesdays. The dish in question – pares beef – a Filipino dish of braised beef served with garlic fried rice. I finally got to grips with a to-go order in November and recounted the details here.

The Bruce

This is the new name for the former Bout Time bar in The Gateway. The update follows the transition of four locations of the chain to new ownership. A previously released press release explains:

. . . 

Bout Time Pub and Grub, a local favorite in casual dining and sports bars, announces a strategic business transition for the brand. This move represents a significant and positive change, marking a new chapter in the growth trajectory of Bout Time Pub and Grub and paving the way for new ventures and opportunities. This decision, reflecting the company’s commitment to excellence, involves transitioning several locations away from the Bout Time brand into private ownership.

As part of this agreement, Bout Time Pub and Grub will take ownership of the Ogden location. At the same time, Tali Bruce, a former franchisee, will retain ownership of the Cottonwood, Taylorsville, Gateway, and Maverik Center locations, rebranding them under a new banner. “We are incredibly excited about the opportunities this transition brings for the team and guests at Bout Time,” said Tim Ryan, CEO of Bout Time Pub and Grub. “We wish Tali and her team the very best in their new ventures.”

. . . 

The Bruce revamps the concept for the downtown bar, leading with a new Scottish theme. Bangers and mash, fish and chips, and cottage pie all appear on a refreshed food menu. While we’re talking Bout Time, expect a new Ogden location to debut on May 17th as well.

Celeste Bite

Fans of Paolo Celeste’s cooking will be excited to hear he’s back in action, this time, via a new food truck. The popular Italian chef has been on the food scene in Utah for decades, first as part of the original Michelangelo’s restaurant setup. After closing his signature restaurant Celeste Ristorante Italiano last year, the new food truck represents Celeste’s return to the SLC food scene.

Chef D’s

Spotted over on the Logan Foodies Facebook Group is this new Northern Utah option.

Chinese Bistro

Taking up the mantle of the former Good Burger in downtown SLC (133 W Regent Street) a new Chinese restaurant has opened. The noodle-driven menu features plenty of fiery Sichuan stuff, Chengdu beef jerky through chaoshou, zajiang noodles hot & sour noodles, and more. The mapo tofu noodle dish caught my eye when I dropped by in October – read about that one here.

Chunga’s

Herriman residents (13322 S Rosecrest Rd) now have their very own location of this popular Mexican restaurant. The restaurant is routinely offered up as one of the best in the valley, specifically for their al pastor. You can sample their signature pineapple-spiked pork through a variety of formats: tacos, sope, quesadillas, huarache, gorditas, burritos, and more.

Como En Casa

A panoply of South American flavor is now being served up at this Taylorsville eatery (5578 S Redwood Rd). Columbian, Peruvian, Ecuadorian, and Venuezlan cuisine are all represented on an extensive menu.

Contento Cafe

Both The Trib and Axios feature stories about this new South Sale Lake (2280 S W Temple St) Mexican restaurant. The restaurant’s menu is put together with a health-conscious and diet-inclusive approach. In practice that means grass-fed steak, organic and antibiotic-free chicken, wild-caught salmon, and a kitchen that’s gluten, and seed-oil-free.

Coterie

After the Summer closure of Good Grammar – the cocktail-forward bar on Gallivan Avenue (69 East) – the redeveloped concept is now open as Coterie. The retooled business retains what looks like a quality bar program, albeit now backed by a daytime coffee shop vibe, and a much larger culinary offering than its predecessor. Options include an all-day breakfast menu bolstered by tacos, sandwiches, and salads.

Crunch

This primarily Japanese-inspired effort offers a menu that leads with an extensive collection of maki, some of which spin-off into decidedly unexpected territory. This menu is perhaps the first time I’ve seen a caprese roll for example. No judgement here, fuse away folks. In a similar vein dishes such as sushi bowls and burritos riff on familiar flavors, while entrees hop and skip around the joint with dishes such as paella, seafood linguine, and a surf and turf ribeye. The location (2856 S 5600th W) appears to be once home to Banzai Teppan Yaki.

Culture Coffee

Serving up the good stuff for denizens of the Fairpark neighborhood. The stuff in question, a variety of beverages and food options.

Dangerous Pretzel

After the Post District recently welcomed new bar Melancholy, the area has now also added one more name (352 W 600 S). Per the moniker, pretzels are the order of business, available in both sweet and savory formats.

Dave’s Hot Chicken

The rapidly revamping 2100 South in Sugar House has recently become home to an outpost of Dave’s. This (777 E 2100 S) now makes three Utah locations for the celebrity-backed brand; notable investors in the seven-year-old business include the likes of Samuel L. Jackson and Drake.

Deadpan Sandwich

A second location of this stellar sandwich shop is now open on the edge of Sugar House in the Izzy Apartment building (556 E 2100 S). I’ll bring you the full scoop next week but suffice it to say it’s the same deal as the Woodbine Food Hall original, with one key difference – breakfast sandwiches every day all day, until their 3.00 p.m. close. I sampled the (pictured top) merguez sausage sandwich today repleted with runny egg – and it’s one you’re going to want to get your hands on. In case you missed it, here’s the full story behind Deadpan,

Devil & Angel Desserts

Another newcomer to South Jordan’s ever-developing Mountain View Village complex. D&AD can be found in the unit just behind burger-flippers Stack 571. The South Valley location is the first Utah outing for the dessert operator that maintains a variety of Californian outlets. Soft-serve ice cream, boba, doughnuts, and croffle form the core of the sweet treats on offer.

Drunken Kitchen

The commissary-based DK has now sprung up in perma-digs in South Salt Lake (2435 S State Street). Operating inside Square Kitchen Eatery alongside Shiba Boba, Comfort Bowl, and Argentina’s Best Empanadas, you can now enjoy Tim & Joe Rammell’s Taiwanese/Chinese creations as a dine-in experience at this location. Pictured are Drunken Kitchen’s impossibly good chicken wings, maybe the best in town. Here’s a deep dive into the dish.

Dunked Cookies

The Daily Herald has the complete scoop on this new Saratoga Springs cookie shop.

Early Owl

Ninth South continues to become a thoroughly intriguing thoroughfare, adding yet another option (155 E 900 S) with this coffee/cafe spot. The Owl opens daily 8.00 a.m. – 3.00 p.m.

Earth & Stones

Taking over the reins of the former Heavy Metal Shop in downtown SLC (63 E. Exchange Place) is this new 21+ bar. According to Kolbie Peterson in the Trib, the new business is the work of “Vanessa Notini and Erick Pernia, who is one of the founders of the Arempa’s restaurant franchise.” Arempas then – the popular Venezuelan spot just around the corner.

Ebony And Ivory BBQ

A new food truck, based out of the Spice Kitchen Incubator “offers a variety of BBQ such as smoked chicken, brisket, ribs, pulled pork, fried fish and smoked hot dogs along with side dishes. Ebony & Ivory BBQ Food Truck is parked at the Smith’s Marketplace parking lot 5710 West 7800 South, West Jordan.”

Eimi Sushi & Ramen

Provo (366 N University Ave) now has a new option for Japanese cuisine. Prices are notable, with rolls starting from just $5.99, and many others hovering under the magic ten-dollar mark. Alongside the extensive maki selection, a range of ramen.

El Tonga Taco

A new takeout / delivery-only Mexican option and one that’s already generating near spotless online reviews. Notable, is the fact the business advertises hours of up to 2.00 a.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays.

Encanto Restaurant

The Trib’s Kolbie Peterson penned this article which takes a look at the all-new Encanto, a sit-down Columbian eatery on the East Side (1500 S 1500 E). Dishes include the likes of patacones, empanada, arepa, and what’s that? Colombian blood sausage, AKA morcilla, I’m sold.

Enrico’s Deli & Pizzeria

Now officially open at Jordan Landing (opposite the movie theater) following a move from Murray. If you missed it, here’s our story on the NYC-inspired restaurant, and why you definitely need to try their impeccable pastrami. For my money, it’s the best pastrami in the state, and I don’t say that lightly.

Flower Child

Utah’s first-ever Flower Child also recently opened (we covered it in this story), unveiling their menu in the revamping Foothill Village (1414 Foothill Dr). The restaurant was created by highly-regarded restaurateur Sam Fox, with a focus on fresh, healthy eats. Fun fact: there’s nary a microwave, fryer, or freezer on site. Everything is made from scratch each day.

Gaetano’s

Now open in the former Fat Boy Phillies location in Murray (5823 S State Street) the second location for this popular sub shop. More than a dozen hot sandwiches anchor a menu that runs the gamut of popular handhelds – the likes of meatballs and phillies and more. For those planning a party, especially one for me, do note that the restaurant offers 3-foot long party subs.

Gary’s Asian Bistro

This new Chinese restaurant on the East side of town is the latest tenant for the building vacated by the long-standing Citris Grill (3977 Wasatch Blvd) – and with it the return of popular chef/operator Gary Lee (formerly Asian Star). The menu features dishes such as foo young, moo shu, and walnut shrimp. Lee’s fans are already flocking to social media by the looks of it, eager for his return.

Grand Hyatt

Now open in Deer Valley is this ritzy new hotel destination – and inside – several culinary options. Chefs Marc Marrone (last seen at Italian Graffiti) and chef Viktor Merenyi will be teaming up with New York City mixologist Frank Maldonado Here are some notes provided by the PR team on the food and bev offerings:

. . . 

• Remington Hall: The pinnacle of American dining, this signature restaurant offers breakfast, brunch, and dinner with breathtaking views of the Jordanelle Reservoir. Standout dishes include innovative takes on American classics, such as bison tartare with cured egg yolk and truffle aioli, and wild boar bolognese with house ricotta gnocchi, ricotta salata, and aged balsamic. The experience continues seamlessly into the Lounge at Remington Hall, featuring lunch and après-ski programming. Complete with an adjacent sports green room, the lounge showcases an array of elevated bar bites, such as brie and cheddar fondue and caramelized onion dip served with chips and caviar. 
• Hidden Ace: The speakeasy-style Hidden Ace offers a curated selection of whisky-forward rustic cocktails like the Western Whistle, which features Alpine Bourbon, apple liqueur, chamomile cordial, fresh lemon juice and egg white, along with elevated bites such as fondue made with local cheeses and grilled bison filet. Enjoy live music and DJ sets in this unique and intimate setting.
• Living Room: Offering the ultimate family après experience, the Living Room features a warm, inviting space anchored by a grand fireplace. Here, guests can enjoy “High Chocolate”—a hot chocolate experience elevated to tea service perfection, complete with tiered trays offering both sweet and savory delights. Savor rich, artisanal hot chocolates alongside s’mores cookies, chocolate snowballs, and gooey baked treats.
• Double Blacks: The resort’s street-side cozy coffee shop powered by Park City Coffee Roasters offers a standout bake shop program featuring house-made croissants, cacio e pepe rolls, beef bone broth consomme or dirty sodas, a Utah favorite. 

Guayoyo Cafe

This Latin coffee shop in Pleasant Grove (19 S Main) has more in the pastry case than that day-old blueberry muffin for you. At Guayoyo you can pair your cortado alongside a half dozen varieties of stuffed empanadas, both veggie and meat-friendly.

Halgatteok

Fans of tteokbokki will want to check this one out. Multiple versions of the Korean rice cake lead the menu, for this new addition to South Salt Lake’s Chinatown complex (3390 S State St). Halgatteok offers fans of the dense treat a build-it-your-way approach, allowing guests a multistage ordering process that involves selecting your type of tteok, saucing style, and spice level – before hitting up a toppings bar.

Handosake

When a new sushi spot opens, we’re usually mentioning maki. Not here. At Handosake, the focus is temaki sushi – aka hand rolls. These quickly composed cylindrical builds are served up from a very handsome-looking space in the heart of downtown SLC (222 S Main St). Fact fans will note this is the former site of The Daily and Bistro 222.

Happy Lamb Hot Pot

Based on the search traffic of eager hot potters looking for info on this one, I’d say there was quite the demand for the opening (6562 S State St) in Murray. To confirm, this is one of the latest hot pot spots in the city and it’s now officially open for business, and earning quite a few glowing reviews in the process. I repeatedly hear that it might be the best in town.

Heaya Ramen & Rice Bowl

One of the latest restaurants to try their hand in the ever-rotating cast at South Salt Lale’s Chinatown. Per their moniker, the restaurant’s menu puts out a concise offering of ramen, rice bowls, and also poke.

Hide & Seek

This new speakeasy space can be found behind a push-aside bookcase at Bonnie & Clyde’s (611 South Main Street) in downtown SLC. As is par for the course with these things, details are mysteriously sparse from the business itself, so check out this Instagram reel from Cindy England (UT Foodie) which shows the whole razzamatazz in action – everything from cocktails surrounded by billowing smoke through to that “chef throws dessert on your table” thing. It’s here in Utah folks.

HollyFood

This burger bar in South Ogden (1706 East 5600 South) leans into the glitz and glamour of LA’s movie heartland to inform a variety of eye-popping burgers; an American patriot burger bun pops with a bright red flair for example, reminiscent of a certain Marvel hero’s emblematic shield design.

Hong Kong Express

A new buffet for Taylorsville (5486 S 1900 W) and one that allows patrons to grab and go to boot; should you be looking to carry out a variety of HK’s two dozen dishes, the all-you-can-eat spot charges by the pound. It’s an ordering methodology I can get behind, “I’ll take three pounds of gyro please”.

Houston Hot Chicken

Houston Hot Chicken is the Savory Fund (R&R, Mo Bettah’s, Via 313, etc) backed brand that notably replaced the Chicken Shack lineup in Utah – another SF endeavor at the time.

The latest location to join the Houston portfolio is a new Murray opening (6161 State St) which like the other stores in SLC, Riverton, Lehi, St George – offers fried chicken via a sliding scale of Scovilles. Options peak at the waiver-required, “Houston we have a problem” which clocks in at a pepper spray-esque two million Scovilles. My order pictured top was at the more circumspect ‘spicy’ which translates to a moderate 150K of the spicy units. I’m a confessed spice addict, so a mildly tingled brow was the only outcome. Real spice heads will want to look at the next tier up – 600K.

For those signing the aforementioned waiver and headed into the seven-figure territory, please accept my thoughts and prayers in advance.

House Of Corn

Making the move from Sandy, this Mexican eatery has now opened up shop in the once-upon-a-time downtown Even Stevens store (414 E 200 S). In late 2023, owner and chef Armando Guerrero spoke with KSL about a complete closure of the restaurant. Hopefully, things have since improved and the next spot serves them better. Bonus reading, here’s a story we ran on the Sandy restaurant, with the in-depth meaning of that name.

Huckleberry Grill

Perhaps add this one to your list for pre/post-Costco trips. In 2024, Huckleberry pitched up across the road from the SLC location (335 W 1830 S). With their arrival, the owners hope to build on the success of their comfort food-focused food truck that came before. Regionally minded dishes include selections such huckleberry sauced pork, and good ol’ funeral potatoes.

Jade’s Corner Deli

I spied this one over on Taylorsville’s official social media feeds, this new deli (2991 W 4700 S) opening at the start of the year. The post promises a deli worth a visit with, “fresh spring rolls, crispy pork belly and rice, fresh-pressed sugarcane juice, smoothies, Vietnamese puddings and pastries and much more.”

Kafe Mamai

One of the most interesting new concepts to open in 2024 was this blend of Caribbean and African cuisine. To my mind, that’s a completely unique menu spin in the state right now. Opening in the former Ascen Kitchen space (49 E Gallivan Ave) in downtown SLC, Abudujannah Soud’s restaurant features everything from jerk burgers and chicken to a whole fried fish that’s served with sides of yuca/plantain mash, and pan-blistered collards. And, I’ve been asked for this countless times, yes, you can get fufu here.

One of the latest names to grow out of the Spice Kitchen Incubator – the organization focused on helping refugees and disadvantaged individuals start their own food businesses. Pictured is the dish I enjoyed most at Mamai (49 E Gallivan Ave) when I stopped by in a snow-laden January.

Grilled whole snapper is finished with a coconut and tamarind sauce. On the side a yucca/plantain mash, and also collard greens. The latter deployed with a blistered, smoky flourish, all bitter and blackened. Great stuff. Here are some pictures of the menu, a melange of African and Caribbean flavors. I’m fairly certain no other menu in the state reads like this one.

Kompas Taqueria

Hat tip to Mile High Food Fairy to alerting to me to this South Valley spot, which had eluded my radar. The bright new space (726 12200th S) is home to a slew of tacos that roughly run around the $5 mark. As well as the more recognizably routine pastor and “k”arnitas, you will also find a few surprises lurking on the menu – Indian tikka chicken, Korean style steak and BBQ pulled pork tacos to name three.

Kiki’s Plate Lunch

A new Hawaiian food truck loosely located in Bountiful. Signatures on the menu include loco moco, katsu, kalua pork, and more. Prices are noteworthy, with nothing managing to reach the ten-dollar mark. Almost hallucinatory in this day and age.

Kimi’s Oyster & Chop House

This former staple of Sugar House has now completed its move to updated digs in Holladay (4699 S Highland Dr). Fans of owner Kimi Eklund’s work should note that the concept of upscale seafood and steak house with Nordic influence remains the same.

Kluck’s Krispy Chicken

This fried chicken joint has now made the boat ride over Utah Lake, opening a second location in Saratoga Springs (282 Crossroads Blvd). The sophomore location brings the same fried fun as the Orem original, a menu primarily built around chicken sandwiches.

Kneaders

Pleasant Grove received a location of this venerable local chain in 2024 – and with it – a whole new look for the interior design. In this story I recapp the history of Kneaders, and dug into what makes the operation tick. Top tip: that pictured turkey and bacon on house ciabatta is a fan favorite for good reason. It’s fabulous.

Koyote

One that makes my personal top five newcomers for 2024 – this Marmalade arrival. Want to know why? In this story recapping the opening, I completely geek out on “fractally hypnotic oils” and some of the best brisket in the state. If you’ve yet to been, resolve to do better this coming year.

Kuchu Shabu

Making their way down Parley’s Canyon to Sugar House (2121 McClelland), this new Southeast Asian spot, hoping to build on the success of their Park City location. Despite the shabu moniker, the SH location menu offers up composed dishes – ramen, pho, and rice plates. The dishes therein have a few interesting options – elk pho anyone?

Laan Thai

Replacing the old Dickey’s in Logan (55 E 1400 N) is this Thai spot. According to the company’s posts online, dine-in is ready with delivery coming in time. The opening makes for a brace for the brand who originally began life over in Ogden.

La Condesa

Named after a Mexico City neighborhood, this new Sandy spot (11078 S. State St) offers a unique twist on the increasingly common brunch-driven restaurants we’re seeing pop up more and more. Mexican flavor informs a menu (offered daily, 7.00 a.m. – 3.00 p.m.) that leads with more than a dozen varieties of chilaquiles.

La Kantina Sports Bar & Grill

This downtown spot (180 W 400 S) looks to have taken over the reins of the location formerly home to Dubai / Ibiza. Overall details are scant so far, though a glance at their IG suggests a Mexican-menu-backed sports bar.

Leavity Bread & Coffee

A new bakery (1000 S. Main St) from Todd Bradley. Here are some highlights from the bakery’s opening press release:

. . . 

Leavity Bread & Coffee, a new and vibrant retail addition to the Salt Lake City community, is excited to announce the grand opening of its new cafe in the historic Ballpark District at 1000 S. Main Street. It is open daily from 8 am-2 pm.

The cafe’s opening is the latest step in Leavity’s impressive growth. Since February 2023, Leavity has provided fresh-baked artisan sourdough on a wholesale basis to local upscale grocers and fine restaurants. At the new retail location, customers can now savor Leavity’s offerings in the open and inviting dining space, plus take home a fresh loaf if they like.

Leavity’s thoughtfully curated menu prioritizes quality and sustainability. The new cafe offers a full espresso selection and a select tasting menu featuring King’s Peak espresso and drip coffees and a selection of Tea Zaanti teas. Initial fresh food selections include Baguette with butter and seasonal jam, Ciabatta with sweet butter, and a variety of Sourdough toast with ricotta mousse and seasonal jam.

Loaves available for takeout include Salt Lake Sourdough, Spelt Sourdough, Seed Crust Sourdough, Miche, and Herb Sourdough. Freshly baked each morning, loaves are available starting at 8 am until sold out.

All Leavity breads are nutritious and made with quality ingredients — primarily organic, heirloom, and whole grain. Leavity uses ancient grains such as spelt, khorsan, and bordeaux rouge, which were first domesticated at the dawn of agriculture and have not had their genetic structure further hybridized like current-day wheat. These whole grains provide critical fiber and minerals.

Further enhancing nutrition is the method of slow fermentation. Long fermentation times —12 hours, versus only about 4 for store-bought bread —increase bioavailability by breaking down fiber, starches, and proteins into smaller units, making them easier for the body to absorb. Leavity bread is well-tolerated by people with gluten sensitivities (but not celiac disease).

Owner/operator Todd Bradley is a native of Salt Lake City with 15 years of industry experience and deep knowledge of the local food scene. He began his career at the upscale seafood restaurant Market Street Grill, eventually moving to mom-and-pop coffee roasters in the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Bradley was inspired to start Leavity after a trip to Europe, where he fell in love with traditional, long-fermented sourdough. After returning home to Salt Lake, he spent years honing the art of baking this classic style.

Les Barbecue Sandwiches

Pictured above is the titular Les Rhodes Jr. – in the heart of the kitchen action at the all-new Les Barbecue Sandwiches in Draper (12059 S State St, Draper). The restaurant has been eagerly anticipated by Rhodes’ legions of fans, with the pitmaster clocking up tens of millions of views on various social media platforms. That success ostensibly from his unique smoked oxtail prep, a cut that’s rarely seen on menus. I grew up on the stuff, and in capable hands, it’s supreme.

The Les BBQ menu is compact, offering a small selection of meats configured into sandwiches, nachos, or baked potatoes. There’s a drive-thru on the Eastern side of the building and a “we close when we’re sold out” approach.

Lucky Thai

Herrimanites can now welcome a new Thai option in their town (5516 13400 S). The menu covers the expected Thai bases and does so at pocket-friendly pricing. Most entrees are modestly priced at $12.99.

Little Saigon

Kearns is the second location for this casual Vietnamese restaurant, which made their name in the Sugar House area. The menu follows the original blueprint offering up banh mi, rice, noodles, pho, and more. While the days of three-dollar banh mi are now largely behind us (yes I lie awake at night remaining about that golden epoch) the menu remains competitive with much of the list hovering around the $10 mark.

The Local Eatery & Bar

2024 saw four new concepts debuting at this Downtown Salt Lake City food hall. Opening in February 2023 (see my first previews here) the concept has gradually iterated over the year that followed. In the last few weeks, the following new concepts have sprung to life inside the facility. Descriptions provided by The Local:

• Habibi – serves up fresh Mediterranean & Middle Eastern fare, including warm pita bread freshly baked from a hearth oven and Middle Eastern favorites like savory chicken shawarma and mezze dips
• Enko Ramen – sip, slurp & savor authentic ramen and Japanese classics like tonkatsu and karaage chicken wings with a contemporary twist
• The Salt – a New York City-inspired Jewish delicatessen with delicious hot & cold sandwiches and soups (pictured top, credit Gastronomic SLC)
• Super Chingon – Mexican taqueria offering a variety of menu options packed with flavor, including tacos, tostadas, quesadillas, and agua frescas

The quartet joined existing vendors Pokeologist (poke) and Pop’s Burger (burger dogs), as well as the on-site full bar – Good Bar. Sadly, by Sepetmber, the business announced their temporary closure.

Locals Brunch House

Bagels to bananas Foster, this Provo opening (296 N University Ave) is the latest local name to add to an ever-expanding roster of brunch-specific dining spots. The pricing is as eyebrow-raisingly affordable, as much as their Sunday opening hours.

Loma

New for lower Main Street in Park City is this new “modern Italian” restaurant by Adam and Meisha Ross – also the names behind another Summit County name – Twisted Fern. The menu certainly reads well – roasted cockles with nduja, and lobster mafaldine, just two that leap off the page instantly to me.

Long An Market

I first heard news on this new Vietnamese market late last year over in this Facebook group. What really caught my eye though were the huge, stuffed banh mi sandwiches. The price? A meager $6.50. Based on the comments and interest in that post, I am guessing my interest wasn’t the only one piqued. The Midvale spot continues to generate impressive buzz as the year wraps.

Louk’s Greek Baby Donuts

American Fork sees a new appearance for this brand, joining the existing Utah operation in Cottonwood Heights. Louks, short for the Greek donuts loukoumades are the star of the show here.

Lupessa

Now open in the former Italian Graffiti space at The Gateway. The best I can tell this is more rebranding than a complete overhaul. While there’s been no formal presser on this one that I know about, the restaurant’s website still lists Nice Hospitality (the former Italian Graffiti operators, as well as the nearby HallPass food hall). Gone, however, seems to be mention of chef Marc Marrone; the banner name toque for the preceding Italian eatery, and also HallPass’s Graffiti Bao – which too seems to be no longer listed on the HallPass site.

Mamachari Kombucha

Now open in SLC (333 W Hope Avenue) a taproom for this kombucha-based business.

Matteo

It’s been roughly a year since Matteo Sogne’s eponymous eatery debuted in SLC. Here’s Heather L. King’s intro to the restaurant for those who still haven’t caught onto the buzz. The restaurant has now moved to new digs in the heart of downtown SLC (77 W 200 S), allowing them to better cater to the increasing legion of fans the restaurant has garnered. Here’s the full press release on the move from the PR team at Matteo:

. . . 

Just one year after opening, Matteo has impressed foodies so much that its popularity has outgrown its space near Liberty Park, establishing itself at the top of the Utah restaurant scene. On November 22, the coveted Italian restaurant that has earned 4.8 stars on Google and OpenTable will reopen in downtown Salt Lake City at 77 West 200 South, Suite 100, opposite the Capitol Theatre. The 6,000 square-foot space is nearly twice the size of the previous location and features three private dining spaces to accommodate corporate dinners, holiday parties, and various celebrations. Expansive windows offer views of vibrant city life. Soundproofed 15-foot ceilings are designed to reduce noise, making for easier conversation, and the larger setting allows greater separation between tables to achieve a more intimate, less bustling feel. Guests can also enjoy complimentary valet parking, a rare commodity in Salt Lake City.

“It’s no secret how challenging the restaurant business is, and we feel very fortunate that Matteo has been enthusiastically received by fellow Utahns, also becoming a must stop for out of state visitors. We couldn’t pass up this opportunity for a more suitable space that will better meet our guests’ needs with a more comfortable dining experience and the same gracious hospitality and quality of cuisine our customers have come to appreciate,” says owner and founder Matteo Sogne, a native of Modena, in the heart of Emilia, globally recognized as the “Food Valley” of Italy. “Our new location is equally ideal for dinner for food lovers as it is for those heading to Utah Jazz and Hockey Club games and theater performances. We are also well positioned to host meals for state leaders and legislators, Utah’s corporate, business, finance, banking, and tech-communities, or attendees of the many national and international conventions at the Salt Palace.”

While diners will welcome the delightful ambiance and ease of parking, Matteo devotees can expect Matteo’s signature Italian cuisine that pays homage to Modena, knowledgeable service and warm, Italian hospitality coupled with dedication to detail. Matteo’s regular customers will also appreciate being served by familiar faces, most of whom have been with the restaurant from its start in 2023. Chef Damiano Carlotto continues to helm the kitchen, while Matteo’s Mom, Manuela, uses traditional Italian technique to bake scrumptious focaccia, many varieties of Italian bread, and delicious desserts. A more expansive bar allows for a more varied and creative beverage program, and the optimally designed kitchen is conducive for seamless back-of-house to front-of-house operations.

“Our focus continues to be on creating an unforgettable experience that encourages guests to come together and share the joy of delectable food paired with a broad, expertly curated wine list. We are excited by the greater visibility and the downtown revitalization plans that include a Sports and Entertainment district nearby,” Matteo explains. “Ultimately, the characteristics of this new space will help us overcome the many challenges the former location posed while allowing us to continue our growth trajectory.”

Matteo’s signature dishes, which feature authentic ingredients and daily house made pasta, include Manuela’s focaccia, Risotto Modena, Paccheri, Gnocchi, and Tagliatelle alla Bolognese.

Reservations made before the relocation will be honored, and new reservations are welcome. Bookings can now be made for corporate holiday parties and other celebrations. Three private dining rooms of varying sizes can each host groups from 12 to 60 guests. Each one features a different theme and can be fully privatized upon request.

Matteo is open daily from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. beginning November 22. For more info, visit MatteoSLC.com or call 385.549.1922. Reservations can be made on OpenTable.

The Meat

One for Utah Countyites, this new Provo food truck with a specialty of Cheesesteaks. The menu is concise with gobs of meat, cheese, and peppers loaded up in your choice of hearty roll, or pile of fries.

Millcrepes

Located just a few steps South of The Local Food Hall (330 E 400 S) this new crepery. Freshly made sweet and savory crepes are sold alongside fresh fruit tea, boba milk tea, and black sugar boba.

Morty’s Cafe

The end of last year saw Morty’s grow to a roster of three locations with this latest Logan opening joining stores in Providence and St. George. Sadly a store in SLC’s Central 9th is no longer with us. The restaurant are as well known for its line-up of solid burgers, as they are for the wallet-friendly pricing; it’s hard to find anything here that dares breach the $10 barrier.

Mooyah

A new location for this Texas-borne burger brand is now open in Sandy (9710 South State St). QSR mag has a larger story on the opening of the location here.

Mozz Pizza

Joining existing Mozz outposts in Provo and SLC is this third Daybreak spot (10420 Rubicon Rd). The well-rated Mozz focus on wood-fired pizza that the restaurant proudly states, “feature a preference for locally sourced ingredients, house-made mozzarella, naturally leavened sourdough crust and a 100% scratch menu from chef Brett Ramuno.”

Mumbai House

KPCW was the first I saw to preview this interesting expansion. The famous name (one of Utah’s most long-lived and loved Indian restaurants) is now open on Park City’s main street. The restaurant can be found at the lower end of Park City’s historic center in the old Mustang location (890 S Main).

Napoli’s Italian Restaurant

A classic Italian menu has now arrived in Midvale (7640 Union Park Ave), a second location for a business that began life in Ogden. Specialties of the kitchen include lobster ravioli.

Neutral Ground Lounge

The latest home for this name is downtown Salt Lake City (122 W Pierpont Ave), a location that’s been home to a roster of names such as Avant Groove, Button Down, Inferno, and more that I’m certainly forgetting. The Cajun-led menu features items such as fried green tomatoes, hush puppies, fried catfish, and gumbo. Per prior iterations of the business, there’s also a focus on cocktails and live entertainment.

Noodlehead

A hat tip to the ever-wonderful Salt Plate City for sending me the info on this one. Noodlehead is the latest business to join the roster at the increasingly bustling Millcreek Common and also happens to be owned and operated by Tyler Stoke’s fancier neighborhood sister, Provisions. NH affords a bright, modern dining room, and a menu stacked top to bottom with noodles. Italian, Japanese, Vietnamese – it’s all here.

Oh Mai Out The Door-Mai’s Mart

Now open in Millcreek (2037 E 3300 S) the latest venture from the Oh Mai brand. Salads, banh mi, noodle dishes, rice dishes, and more can be found on the very affordably priced menu. Given the name, I believe the model is focused on pickup and delivery.

Ombu

One more spot for this growing name. South Jordan (11460 District Dr) is the latest to welcome the company, which recently debuted their hot pot concept in the city.

Ortega’s Asada & Wings

Michael and Michael Junior Ortega’s wing shop recently celebrated its grand opening in the Com Com Kitchen facility (67 W. 1700 S.). Chicken wings and a variety of loaded fries comprise the core of the grab-and-go/delivery menu.

The Other Side Donuts

I love reader tips, so here’s one direct from the mailbox, “The Other Side Donuts” is open now at 760 S Redwood Road, and it is really good.   The fun outdoor treatments on the building really are eye-catching in a pretty dull neighborhood, but now we have something to go with the excellent tacos from the stand in the parking lot of the Tear-A-Part.” Email me anytime folks.

Paris Baguette

Su Kim is the local name behind Utah’s first installation of Paris Baguette. Kim, a graduate student from the University of Utah, swapped investment banking with Goldman Sachs to instead open the state’s first Paris Baguette in Midvale (950 E Fort Union).

The marketing team from PB tells me that Kim is a first-generation immigrant from South Korea and her time in the US has been spent entirely in Utah, a place she has come to refer to as her second home. After graduating from Utah and working in investment banking, she began to crave flavors from her childhood – namely Paris Baguette. With locations across South Korea, the stateside deployment of the brand now spans 100 locations. Expect more locations in the state to follow.

Pearl Milk Tea Club

A new tenant over at The Gateway, who write, “Established over 14 years ago, Pearl Milk Tea Club stands as a beloved local boba shop renowned for crafting authentic beverages using premium, real ingredients.”

Pita House & Grill

Signs went up along 33rd South for this restaurant off to the side of the Arbat (389 E 3300 S) in the Summer. A little Googling suggests this might be a makeover for Ali Baba, a similar-styled restaurant that operated formerly here. At any rate, the menu offers a familiar lineup of Middle Eastern dishes, including lesser-spotted items like Iraqi samoon flatbread. The best menu I could find was over on DoorDash. I subsquently had to see what was cooking, and was more than pleasantly surprised – read about that in this story.

Palomino Bar

A new bar for Park City’s swanky Main Street, opened by the adjoining Riverhorse On Main, and the award-winning Seth Adams. Here’s the full press release from the company’s PR team:

. . . 

Palomino, a spirited clubhouse from Riverhorse on Main, has officially arrived to Park City’s Main Street. With award-winning Executive Chef Seth Adams at the reins, the newest venue of the Riverhorse collection offers a refined bar scene of laid-back elegance, inviting friends – old and new – to gather in Park City’s new favorite watering hole.

“Our dream of opening an upscale bar as part of our Riverhorse offerings has finally come to life, and we are excited to welcome the community to experience it for themselves,” says Executive Chef Seth Adams of Riverhorse Hospitality Group. “Palomino’s signature cocktails, beer, wine, and spirits menus, paired with our inventive bites and small plates, complement the perfect après outing, night on the town, or any reason to celebrate.”

Saddled up right next door to Riverhorse on Main at 540 Main Street, Palomino ushers in an elevated bar experience that feels right at home. Artfully crafted menus include a variety of spirits, fine wines, artisanal beers, and signature cocktails such as the Lodge No. 7 of Rendezvous Rye, Carpano Antica, Luxardo, and espresso, The Seamstress of Alpine gin, fresh heirloom tomato juice, St. Germain, fire bitters, peppercorn, and housemade jerky, and The Gold Digger of Casamigos mezcal, Cointreau, lime, agave, and Veuve. Savor a snack trio of marinated olives, Marcona almonds, and buffalo jerky, and other small plates of goat cheese pockets and smoked salmon potato pancakes. Seafood selections include oysters, caviar, sous vide lobster tail, and jumbo lump crab, along with shareable plates of French onion sliders, petite lobster rolls, buffalo quail bites, and caprese flat bread. Save room for decadent treats of key lime pie, a Palomino Cloud, or a Manhattan ice cream sandwich featuring High West ice cream and Ritual Chocolate cookies.

Destined to capture the authenticity of Park City’s Main Street, the Palomino space was expertly designed by Casey Adams of FORM Design. Her incredible eye guided the purposeful vision for the bar’s inviting atmosphere and intentional spaces. Set to a subdued color palette adorned with thoughtful art pieces, Palomino’s sophisticated style and warm surroundings create the perfect ambiance for an unforgettable experience. For more information about FORM Design, visit formdesignit.com.

Parea

Parea is the latest outing for Katrina and Manoli Katsanevas (Manoli’s). Alongside several take and heat dishes, the star of the dine-in kitchen is the pictured pork spit – a more traditional Grecian approach to the familiar gyro. Here’s a larger story on the business and a peek inside.

Premiere Park City

Here’s the full presser on the opening of this new Park City (268 Main St) bar:

. . .

Utah’s swanky new underground cocktail lounge and venue Premiere opened officially today to the public. Nestled in the scenic heart of downtown Park City, the brand-new lounge provides an intimate yet spacious setting for a diverse array of events, in addition to a selection of handcrafted cocktails and delicious small plates-style cuisine. The name “Premiere” embraces the Sundance Film Festival and the many iconic films that have made their debut in the idyllic ski city. Premiere plans to be the destination for future film premieres, as well as host to music, entertainment, and other events.

“Premiere isn’t just a venue; it’s a testament to the vibrancy of Park City’s cultural scene, where every night promises a new adventure and every cocktail tells a story.” said Anthony Hebert, Premiere Manager

Premiere’s decor fits the unique charm of Park City’s lively and rustic character. The spacious 5,000-square-foot venue reflects a chic, high-end speakeasy reminiscent of the Gilded Age that still pays tribute to the iconic mountain setting nearby, complete with three giant disco balls to set the mood for dancing late into the night with cocktails in tow. The interiors feature beautiful rock walls from the original foundation of the building as the centerpiece of the venue. It also features reclaimed wood that covers most of the interior walls and entrances. A custom bar top with a bespoke railroad tie footrest is just one of Premiere’s elements that highlight the historic beauty of Park City.

For Premiere’s food menu, the team brought in Executive Chef Chicho Gonzalez, who specializes in bringing the essence of Latin America to guests’ plates by serving up unique, small, and shareable dishes crafted with passion and soul. Born and raised in Los Angeles, the influence of Mexican street food amalgamated with the Peruvian heritage from Chico’s mother’s side created the foundation of his Latin-flavored palate. After spending a decade working under some of the best chefs in Salt Lake City, Chef Chicho understood the gastronomy scene and created a unique style that pays homage to the local community and his Los Angeles Latin roots.

“At Premiere, we’re blending the bold flavors of Latin America with the spirit of Park City, crafting dishes that ignite the palate and spark conversation, ensuring every bite is an experience worth savoring.” said Chicho Gonzalez Executive Chef of Premiere

Highlights on the menu that reflect Premiere’s elevated nightlife vibe include items like Birria Sliders ($18) with smoked chili braised beef brisket, two 2-oz patties, and mint cabbage slaw, served with lemongrass consumé. Chef Chicho’s take on dips includes Hominy Hummus ($14) featuring white corn instead of chickpea, mixed with charred peppers and olive oil, served with toasted flatbread; or Premiere Guacamole ($14) with diced giardiniera, feta crumbles, and chili threads, served with banana chips and pita bread. The Spiced Beet Bruschetta combines sweet maple ricotta and savory spiced beets creating a flavorful pairing, topped with arugula and house balsamic – another stellar option to start the night at Premiere.

Mixologist extraordinaire Felipe Marin who hails from Jalisco, Mexico, brings a creative and energetic approach to Premiere’s cocktail menu, offering a collection of classic and contemporary libations in a sophisticated and stylish ambiance. Signature standouts include the Mandarin Dream Margarita ($17) with tequila blanco, mandarin orange, lime juice, and coconut cream; Blooming Mule ($16) with Empress Elderflower Rose gin, ginger beer, lime, and mint; an Espresso Martini Flight ($22) a trio of the trendy beverage: raspberry chocolate, salted car by I amel, and dark chocolate hazelnut, amongst other cocktails showcasing Marin’s creativity and expertise.

Situated in the bustling heart of Park City, Premiere stands as more than just a venue – it’s an immersive journey into a world of sophisticated flavors, captivating live music, and versatile event spaces, perfect for locals and tourists alike. Premiere is located at 268 Main Street, Park City, Utah, and will be open Wednesday through Sunday from 5pm until late. For more information follow Premiere on Instagram @premiereparkcity and at their website www.premiereparkcity.com.

Peppered Vine

Thanks to Mile High Food Fairy for another great tip on this one. Now open in Sandy’s Union Square (9476 S). The Peppered Vine is the work of Le Cordon Bleu grad Renee Poe. The focus is on fresh cooked meals to go, the menu featuring a variety of staples, bolstered by entrees that change each day. Monday begins with homemade meatloaf, and piri chicken while the week ends with a nod to blightly with English curry and chips, alongside cottage pie.

Pho Hao

Possibly an update to West Valley’s Pho Hoa – but it’s not entirely clear, any ideas out there?

Piko Mexican Grill

A new Mexican option hovering on the edge of downtown SLC (511 E 500 S). I don’t have too much information beyond scouring the various social media / online platforms. One commenter notes that the business might be connected to the much-lauded Victors.

Ramen Hero

New to Eagle Mountain (4095 E. Pony Express Parkway) this ramen shop, As well as the titular dish you can also find sushi, sashimi, and more.

Ramen Ichizu

Expect to hear a lot about this one, not least see it pop up on your social feeds over and over, all tangled noodles and oiled broth. It crept out of soft opening mode this year, and according to some, might be home to some of the best ramen in the city. Chef and owner Mike Harrison runs the well-regarded Hana Ramen in Park City and is bringing the same laser-guided focus to this SLC opening (915 Washington St).

Harrison’s approach is one of strict authenticity, going as far as to make noodles in-house; here’s a podcast interview with the owner/chef going into details about his time training at Tokyo’s rajuku ramen school. Also, check out Pho King’s post on Instagram, who rates it as the best in the city. The man knows his ramen, just sayin’

Red Beryl Kitchen & Bar

A new restaurant for DoubleTree Suites in SLC. Here’s the full press release on the update at the property:

. . .

Red Beryl Kitchen & Bar, a new dining experience where culinary craftsmanship meets locally sourced, fresh ingredients. Located in the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Salt Lake City Downtown, Red Beryl Kitchen & Bar is a lively restaurant and bar that provides guests with innovative American and Southwest cuisine.

The dinner menu includes a variety of dishes including Seared Wild Salmon served with risotto and garlic butter broccolini; Grilled Hanger Steak plated with chimichurri sauce and fries; Baja Fish tacos featuring harissa grilled mahi mahi topped with avocado crema, slaw, pickled red onion, salsa verde, cilantro and finished with cotija. Also featured on the lunch and dinner menu is a variety of fresh sandwiches and flatbreads including a Crispy Chicken Sandwich and a White Bean & Steak Flatbread.

Red Beryl Kitchen & Bar is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and is also available to host gatherings and events with their private dining rooms. Whether looking for an intimate dinner, a family gathering or a place to unwind with friends, Red Beryl Kitchen & Bar delivers a warm, inviting atmosphere and exceptional food and beverages every time.

Red Fuego

Another newcomer Sugar House’s main drag (759 E 2100 S). The menu at this Peruvian restaurant includes all of the comforting classics that make the cuisine irresistible – arroz chaufa, pollo a la brasa, lomo saltado, and more. The opening builds on the success of existing locations in Orem, Lehi, Provo, and Saratoga Springs.

Roux

This new chef-driven spot is the work of chef Adam Cold in tandem with chef de cuisine Dominiquee Roberts. Handmade pasta is central to a menu that also dabbles with a variety of global influences. Lamb shank birria, miso black cod, harissa Brussels – three examples of the kitchen crew taking a whirlwind culinary tour. Find them at 515 E 300 S in Salt Lake City. Aimee Cook wrote this stort for us detailing Cold’s approach.

Rusty Taco

The Herald-Examiner offers this story, on this new Pleasantville (380 W 2650 N) taco spot, one of two in Utah from the Dallas-borne brand.

Scelto

Now seating guests is this brand new Italian restaurant that was formerly Chin-Wah in Sandy (849 E 9400 S). Opened by Waleska Iglesias and Scott Dilley the menu hits all the notes you’d expect, pasta through pizza and hearty protein-driven entrees.

Scovilles

Now open in Sugar House in an end cap unit (2121 S McClelland St) that once housed Feast Box and Habit Burger before that. The 21+ bar leads with a menu of wings supported by no less than 18 sauces and prepared in eleven different ways. The configurations multiply still with a variety of spice selections and final dressings.

Señor Pollo Mexican Grill

The downtown SLC location (170 S Main) of this Mexican grilled chicken chain is now open. This makes it seven for the chain in Utah I believe.

Seoul Meat Co

The latest name to hit the Mountain View Village facility in Riverton – opening in February I believe; I know, I know, sometimes I don’t catch ’em’ the moment they open, but I’ll always recap! As you might expect from the menu, Korean cuisine is the star of the show, served up in the popular all-you-can-eat, table-side DIY BBQ format.

Seven Brothers

Three new locations of this chain sprung to life across the valley in ’24. Here’s the full press release from the company on the openings:

. . . 

Seven Brothers, the Hawaiian-born restaurant putting a family-oriented, quality-driven spin on the average burger joint, has announced plans to open more locations during Q2 and 3 of 2024. After the successful launch of their latest location in Pleasant Grove, the brand is eager to maintain its momentum and continue its growth trajectory.

The burger brand now boasts ten operational locations spread across three states: four in Hawaii, five in Utah, and its latest addition in Arizona. In the upcoming quarter, Seven Brothers anticipates the opening of four additional restaurants within Utah, potentially in locales such as St. George, Farmington, Uintah and Salt Lake City.
“Since opening a new location and signing a few deals, we’ve had a great start to 2024,’” said Shez Hannemann, Co-Owner of Seven Brothers. “It’s been an exciting journey to share the Hawaiian culture, love and spirit through Seven Brothers. We can’t wait to open even more locations and share the essence of our brand with the rest of the world.”

Seven Brothers is actively seeking entrepreneurs interested in expanding their presence across Arizona, Hawaii, Idaho, and Utah. These individuals should share a vision of enriching their local communities with a blend of warmth, relaxation, and a hint of beachside paradise. The brand has a culture and mission that facilitates a welcoming, easy-going vibe; it’s a unique, energetic and fun concept that immediately differentiates itself from other competing burger concepts. Seven Brothers offers a business model that is synonymous with the meaning of “family” and “Aloha.”

“Our brand employs 3 things: Christ centered, family focused, and passionate about making and serving food that will blow you away,” said Seth Hannemann, Co-Owner of Seven Brothers. “At Seven Brothers, we invite customers to experience a slice of paradise right in their own neighborhoods. Our flavorful creations and relaxed ambiance create an unforgettable dining experience similar to a beachside getaway.”

Shwe Letyar Sushi

A recent addition to the Woodbine Food Hall. Burmese-born Jadim Lahpai is the owner, and another business launched by the Spice Kitchen Incubator. As well as such expected to find plenty of Burmese dishes such as glutinous rice pyramids, and fermented tea leaf salad.

Slice House

Expected in December, here’s the full press release on what to expect from this new pizza spot:

. . . 

Slice House by Tony Gemignani, the highly successful fast-casual pizza franchise by world renowned pizzaiolo Tony Gemignani, is proud to announce the December 2024 opening of its new Salt Lake City location and its first in Utah. Located at 1332 Foothill Drive along the East Bench’s Foothill Village shopping center, the pizzeria will welcome guests to experience award-winning pizza by the 13-time world champion in a fast casual setting. The new restaurant is currently hiring across all positions and is expected to bring more than 40 new full- and part-time jobs to the Salt Lake City community.

“We look forward to introducing Slice House to Salt Lake City, which will be home to our very first restaurant in Utah,” said Founder Tony Gemignani. “We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with our dedicated partners, Bob Baker and Don Lewandowski, to bring memorable pizza experiences to such a bustling metropolitan area and continue to expand the Slice House footprint across the US.”

Franchised and operated by industry veterans, Bob Baker and Don Lewandowski, Slice House Salt Lake City will feature an expansive menu of Gemignani’s famous New York, Sicilian, Grandma, and Detroit style pizzas – available by the slice or whole pizza. Gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options will also be available, as well as fresh pasta, wings, and salads. The drink menu will include craft beers and premium wines, in addition to non-alcoholic sodas and juices. The new pizza spot will have indoor seating for 42 people and outdoor seating for 12 people on the covered patio and will offer takeout, online ordering, and delivery. It will be open seven days a week – from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

“It is an honor to partner with celebrity pizzaiolo Tony Gemignani and be the first to bring his world-famous pizzas and artisanal offerings to Utah and the Salt Lake City community,” said Lewandowski. “We are confident that Slice House will quickly become a local favorite in the area thanks to the expansive pizza menu and vibrant energy, making it the perfect spot for locals to grab a bite after sports games or a day of skiing, meet for lunch with friends, or enjoy in the comfort of home. Stay tuned for more on the opening – we can’t wait to join the Foothill Village community and share a slice with guests soon.”

Slice House Salt Lake City will open in Foothill Village, the historic shopping center located off Foothill Drive in the heart of the East Bench neighborhood. It will join the complex’s diverse array of other shopping, dining and professional businesses including the forthcoming Shake Shack; local restaurants Flower Child, Honest Eatery, and Costa Vida; and sporting goods stores Sports Den and Salt Lake Running Company, among others. With its central location off the main thoroughfare and minutes away from The University of Utah, the VA Medical Center, Red Butte Garden Amphitheatre, Bonneville Golf Course, and Wasatch Hills Tennis Center, Slice House will serve as a go-to for nearby athletes, students, faculty, families, professionals and other residents. Aside from select locations within entertainment venues in Nevada, this marks the first individual location outside of California, where Slice House originated.

Smashburger by Dom

Popups, restaurants within restaurants, they’re growing at an increasing clip these days. And who could blame them? The ephemeral experiences offer would-be operators to trial concepts in the most cost-effective ways possible. Here’s one more to follow, a burger brand that flashed and flared into life at Roux.

Sol Agave

After what seemed like an eternity, this higher-end Mexican eatery is now open in downtown SLC (660 S Main). The story mirrors that of El Cholo that opened in Sugar House last year, a Californian staple spreading their wings and choosing the Beehive as the landing point. Unlike EC, Sol Agave has established skin in the Utah game, operating an always well-regarded American Fork location for quite some time.

Studio @ Soundwell

Pizza, lettuce-wrapped skewers, salads, and sandwiches are the core of this new downtown spot, attached to live music venue Soundwell (149 W 200 S). The new space is open daily from 5.00 p.m. – through midnight, opening later till 2.00 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Sukiya Sushi & Japanese Buffet

Midvalians (198 W 7200 S) can now stop by this all-you-can-eat offering. Prices run $26.99 for lunch and $39.99 for dinner – with child options seeing various discounts. On the cooler side of things, a huge maki menu is joined by nigiri and sashimi.

Sushi Bomb

A new sushi option in Draper (196 W 12300 S). Of note, the simpler maki rolls here run as modestly as five bucks – with even the more complex configurations struggling to break the nine-dollar mark. After the expansive roll call, the menu is completed with rice bowls and bento boxes.

Tang Huo Kung Fu Hot Pot

Located in Sandy Village in the spot previously occupied by House of Corn (816 E 9400 S) is one more hot pot stop for you. The owners tell me, “We are Utah’s first Mala Tang (spicy instant hot pot) restaurant. Our offered ingredients are similar to traditional hot pot including beef and lamb, seafood, tofu, noodles, and veggies but instead of cooking tableside, we cook for the customer to order. We offer a selection of broth or mix sauce flavors and can accommodate the full range from non-spicy to extra spicy.”

Thieves Guild Cidery

Cider continues to make a bigger mark on the local bar scene, with this opening (117 W 900 S) in SLC. The business offers, “a full-service microcidery and brewpub with an extensive list of rotating hard ciders on draft that we make in-house. Our primary style will be modern ciders focusing on local ingredients.” Light snacks should be available over the bar, with food trucks expected to play a bigger role on the food front.

Tita’s Restaurant

Lobster-filled enchiladas smothered in green chile sauce anyone? Head on over to this new West Valley City Mexican eatery. Other interesting-looking dishes include an al pastor stuffed half pineapple, shrimp chile relleno, and what’s that, a stingray stuffed quesadilla?!

Tuk Tuk’s

A second location for one of the best and brightest Thai names in town. Draper is the lucky burb (541 E 12300 S) to receive this one.

Tsunami

This Japanese restaurant is now back in business in Sugar House (2223 S Highland Drive) after several years closed. Expect the same extensive menu of Japanese fare that the other four locations in the group serve.

Top Pot & K BBQ

One more hot pot spot for you to try in SoSL (3540 S State St) and one that also offeers guests both traditional Chinese hot pot alongside all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ. The opening is one of more than 10 locations nationwide for the company that started life in 2010.

Toro Steak And Cocktails

Prices are strikingly affordable at this all new steakhouse option for South Jordan – a restaurant category where numbers can reel off in dizzying fashion. A 12oz ribeye is priced at $28, the filet is two dollars more.

Ve La Thai

This new Cottonwood Heights restaurant offers a familiar menu of Thai dishes, alongside the less so. Creamy chili jam soft shell crab? BBQ grilled lamb cutlet anyone? The menu is presented with aplomb too, in a fine dining setting replete with what looks like a strong focus on accompanying wines.

Vessel Kitchen

2024 saw Vessel make their first foray into Utah County. In this story I sat with co-owner Brian Reeder to dig into the details of what makes this local chain a favorite choice with so many.

Violet

Violet is the name to take over the reins of the now-defunct Stratford Proper (1588 E Straford Ave). The new owners are taking a similar tack conceptually, that of a neighborhood spot fit for a variety of purposes. Open for brunch, lunch, and dinner, the owners Myra and Troy Petersen tell me the menu approach is “elevated casual”, and features home-cooked, quality food in a cozy, inviting environment.

The Vintage Room

Deer Valley. Back for a third Winter is this seasonal acres-ski option at St Regis. Here’s the presser from the business on the 2024 return:

. . . 

The extraordinarily popular and always thrumming après destination, The Vintage Room in Park City, officially opened for its third season.  Located at The St. Regis Deer Valley, the 1600 SF crystal clear heated Vintage Room is situated along Deer Hollow Run and can be easily accessed via skis or from the Resort’s Main Building via wooden walkway.  The Vintage Room can also be reached from the Resort’s funicular, the only at a North American ski resort.   

The Vintage Room beckons with its shimmering modern chandeliers that reflect the pristine powder outside.  Oysters are shucked behind a 30-foot wooden bar as expert mixologists serve signature cocktails and chefs prepare orders.  Lounge and table seating are available, as are two raised VIP areas for a birds-eye view and great people watching.  Food and libations can also be enjoyed at the outdoor deck and fire pit under the typically cornflower blue skies of Park City.  Enjoy lunch, après pre or post Sundance screenings, or as a respite from alpine endeavors! 

The Vintage Room serves lunch and Après daily with an elevated menu by Executive Chef Pierson Shields.  DJs are featured most afternoons and attire is typically ski wear or après ski chic. 

The menu includes Caviar Chips Crème Fraîche; Pepper Seared Yellowfin Tuna Rice and Chili Bread Bowl; and the always popular Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheese Toast.  Enjoy Champagne or libations from the Resort’s Winter Cocktail Menu such as the Belafonte, made with Ron Zacapa 23 and St. George Spiced Pear; the St. Regis Martinez using the just-released St. Regis Barrel Select Gin, Amaro Nonino and Carpano Antica; or the legendary 7452 Bloody Mary, named for the altitude of the Resort.  The Resort’s Signature Beers include Cousin Jack and Main Street Mexican Lager and the Resort’s most popular cocktail, the 7452 Bloody Mary, named for the elevation of the Resort, are available.   

Wayback Burgers

Another national name, this one coming to Pleasant Grove (863 S. North County Blvd).

Yummy’s Korean BBQ

Now open in Provo (200 W Center St), a location of this Korean fast casual.

The 14 Peaks

Moving into the space once home to Asia Palace (1446 S State St, Salt Lake City) this new Indian and Nepalese option. Named after the expansive Himalayan mountain range, the menu is a familiar compendium of some of South Asia’s best.

7 Brew

Provo recently welcomed this national drive-thru coffee chain (2342 N. University Parkway). Millcreek also followed shortly after.

98K Fried Chicken

Fryer fans will no doubt want to inspect the menu at this new casual spot in South Salt Lake’s Chinatown. Fried chicken sandwiches take center stage but the menu quickly riffs on other popular fast food dishes, as well as the more intriguing codfish burger, and shrimp burger. The menu is listed as being halal-friendly and in these inflated times, is laser sharp price-wise. A fried chicken sandwich combo with fries and a drink is priced below $10. You’d be hard-pressed to match that deal at some of the big national names quite frankly.

Other names!

Naturally, the list wasn’t as perfect as I’d like, and a few folks chimed in to remind me of names I’d accidentally omitted. Here’s a few more than opened in 2024:

• Ten Seconds Yunnan Rice Noodle – South Salt Lake
• Vinci Gelato – Provo
• Joy Popsicles – Sandy
• Dali Crepes – Cottonwood Heights, Farmington
• Pork N’ Roll – Draper
• Little India – Highland
• Doki Doki – Orem
• Chubby Baker – Sandy

Other useful links

• Free newsletter – signup and receive our weekly newsletter for free
• Food talk group – chew the fat with other like-minded Utah foodies over on Facebook.
• 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.