Salt Lake City, with its combination of vibrant food culture and rich history, offers an array of culinary experiences. From fine dining to street food, this city has something for every palate. During my recent trip to Salt Lake City, I explored its must-visit restaurants, sampled delicious street food, and had unforgettable dining experiences. Join me on a food tour through this beautiful city, and discover the top restaurants and street food that you cannot miss!
1. The Copper Onion – Modern American with a Creative Twist
Location: 111 E Broadway, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
A must-visit for anyone who appreciates modern American cuisine, The Copper Onion is a local favorite. Nestled in downtown Salt Lake City, this restaurant offers a cozy yet contemporary atmosphere. It is renowned for its seasonal dishes and farm-to-table ethos, making it an ideal spot to enjoy locally sourced ingredients.
Signature Dish:
The Copper Onion Burger is a standout. The combination of a juicy beef patty, caramelized onions, and a rich cheese sauce all stacked inside a perfectly toasted brioche bun creates a flavor explosion. It’s the type of burger that immediately makes you wonder why you ever settled for anything less. Another dish to try is the Braised Short Ribs. Slow-cooked to perfection, the short ribs are tender, flavorful, and served with a smooth polenta that complements the rich meat.
Price:
- Copper Onion Burger: $17
- Braised Short Ribs: $28
My Experience:
I walked into The Copper Onion after a long day of sightseeing, and the cozy, welcoming ambiance immediately set the stage for a relaxing meal. The service was impeccable, with the staff explaining the seasonal menu with enthusiasm. The Copper Onion Burger lived up to all the hype. The balance between the sweetness of the caramelized onions and the savoriness of the beef was perfect. The short ribs, however, were the real showstopper. The meat was so tender that it practically fell off the bone, and the accompanying polenta added a creamy texture that complemented the richness of the dish. I paired it with a local craft beer, which was the perfect match.
Reservation Tips:
- This place can get busy, especially on weekends. I recommend making a reservation ahead of time, particularly for dinner.
- The Copper Onion offers a wonderful brunch menu, which I tried on a subsequent visit. Their Avocado Toast with poached eggs is something you should definitely try for a light yet satisfying meal.
2. Red Iguana – Legendary Mexican Food
Location: 736 W North Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84116
Red Iguana is a Salt Lake City institution. Known for its authentic Mexican cuisine, this place attracts both locals and tourists alike. The vibrant atmosphere, paired with a wide range of flavorful dishes, makes it one of the most popular Mexican restaurants in the city.
Signature Dish:
The Mole is a dish that’s simply not to be missed. Red Iguana offers five different moles—each one unique, flavorful, and utterly delicious. The Mole Poblano, a rich, slightly spicy sauce made with chiles, chocolate, and a variety of other ingredients, is the restaurant’s signature. I also highly recommend their Tacos al Pastor, marinated pork served with pineapple, onions, and cilantro on a soft corn tortilla.
Price:
- Mole Poblano: $18
- Tacos al Pastor: $12 for a plate of three
My Experience:
Upon entering Red Iguana, I was immediately greeted with the vibrant colors and aromas of Mexican spices in the air. The menu, packed with traditional Mexican dishes, was a tough choice, but the Mole Poblano was calling my name. I was not disappointed. The mole had the perfect balance of rich, deep flavors with just the right amount of spice. The Tacos al Pastor were equally memorable—the pork was tender, and the sweetness of the pineapple added a wonderful contrast to the savory meat.
The portion sizes were generous, and the food was beautifully presented. The service was quick and friendly, and my waitress recommended a Mexican beer to pair with the meal, which was a great suggestion.
Reservation Tips:
- Red Iguana is famous, and there is often a wait. I suggest arriving early or using their reservation system if possible.
- For a more casual experience, you can always grab take-out and enjoy it at one of the nearby parks or scenic areas.
3. Takashi – Japanese Cuisine at Its Finest
Location: 18 W Market St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
If you’re craving high-quality sushi and Japanese cuisine, Takashi is the place to go. This restaurant offers a fine dining experience that combines traditional Japanese ingredients with innovative techniques. Takashi’s reputation for excellence in sushi has made it one of the best sushi restaurants in Salt Lake City.
Signature Dish:
The Omakase (chef’s choice) tasting menu is the best way to experience Takashi’s culinary prowess. It includes a variety of sushi and sashimi, prepared fresh and served at the perfect temperature. Additionally, their Spicy Tuna Roll is a local favorite, featuring tender tuna, avocado, and a spicy mayo sauce wrapped in rice and seaweed.
Price:
- Omakase Tasting Menu: $60-$80 per person
- Spicy Tuna Roll: $14
My Experience:
Walking into Takashi felt like entering a hidden gem in the middle of Salt Lake City. The ambiance was sleek, with modern decor and a minimalist touch that immediately put me in the mood for a great meal. I opted for the Omakase, and it was an incredible experience. Each dish that came to the table was a masterpiece, with the sushi perfectly crafted and the fish so fresh that it practically melted in my mouth.
The Spicy Tuna Roll was also a highlight—spicy, but not overwhelming, with a beautiful balance of flavors. The staff was incredibly knowledgeable about the menu and even recommended sake pairings that complemented each dish. I was so impressed by the attention to detail that I visited again the following week, eager to explore more of their menu.
Reservation Tips:
- Takashi is popular, especially for dinner. I strongly recommend making a reservation to avoid long waits.
- If you’re unfamiliar with the Omakase experience, don’t hesitate to ask the staff to explain it. They will gladly guide you through the meal.
4. Oquirrh – Fine Dining with Local Flavors
Location: 350 W 300 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
For a more upscale, fine dining experience in Salt Lake City, Oquirrh is a standout. The restaurant combines elegant decor with contemporary dishes that highlight Utah’s local ingredients. The menu focuses on fresh, seasonal products and includes creative dishes that fuse traditional and modern techniques.
Signature Dish:
One of Oquirrh’s most popular dishes is the Seared Scallops with a corn puree and a crispy polenta cake. The delicate sweetness of the scallops pairs perfectly with the creamy puree, and the crunchy polenta adds an unexpected texture. Another must-try is the Utah Lamb Rack, which is perfectly cooked and served with a rosemary jus that enhances the flavor of the lamb.
Price:
- Seared Scallops: $26
- Utah Lamb Rack: $36
My Experience:
Dining at Oquirrh was a truly luxurious experience. The restaurant’s sleek interior, with its open kitchen concept, added an exciting touch to the atmosphere. I ordered the Seared Scallops, and they were perfectly cooked, with a beautifully caramelized crust and tender interior. The Utah Lamb Rack was another standout—succulent and rich in flavor, it melted in my mouth with every bite.
The service was attentive without being overbearing, and the wine list was extensive, offering both local and international options to complement the meal. I finished with their signature dessert, a delicate Lemon Sorbet, which was the perfect refreshing end to the meal.
Reservation Tips:
- Oquirrh is a popular choice for special occasions, so reservations are essential, especially for weekends.
- Make sure to arrive on time as the atmosphere is quite serene, and late arrivals can disrupt the dining flow.
5. Sweet Lake Biscuits & Lime – Comfort Food with a Twist
Location: 1225 S State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
For a more casual, yet incredibly satisfying meal, Sweet Lake Biscuits & Lime offers a unique take on Southern comfort food. Known for its biscuits and limeade, this small restaurant serves up dishes that feel like a warm hug for your taste buds. It’s a perfect spot for breakfast or brunch.
Signature Dish:
The Biscuits and Gravy here are a must-try. The biscuits are flaky and light, and the gravy is rich and hearty, with sausage crumbles and a touch of heat. Their Limeade, made with fresh lime juice, is a refreshing complement to the meal and is available in several flavors.
Price:
- Biscuits and Gravy: $14
- Limeade: $4
My Experience:
I walked into Sweet Lake Biscuits & Lime on a lazy Sunday morning, ready to experience their Southern-inspired breakfast. The cozy, unpretentious vibe made me feel at home right away. The Biscuits and Gravy were everything I had hoped for—light yet filling, with a rich, flavorful gravy that made me want to order seconds. The Limeade was a refreshing burst of citrus, perfect for cutting through the richness of the gravy.
The service was friendly and quick, and the prices were more than reasonable for the quality of food. It’s a great place for a hearty breakfast or brunch before heading out to explore the city.
Reservation Tips:
- This is a popular brunch spot, so getting there early will save you from waiting in line.
- It’s a small place, so you may want to consider take-out if there’s a wait.
Salt Lake City’s food scene is a delightful blend of local flavors, innovative dishes, and cultural diversity. Whether you’re seeking high-end dining, traditional Mexican flavors, or comforting biscuits, you’re sure to find something that satisfies your craving. The restaurants I visited during my trip truly showcased the richness of the city’s food culture, and I can’t wait to return to explore even more. From The Copper Onion to Sweet Lake Biscuits & Lime, Salt Lake City offers an unforgettable culinary experience that every food lover should try.