It’s no surprise that Salt Lake is a true foodie hub. From the most hyped restaurants that are beloved for a reason, to those underrated gems you haven’t yet been to. No matter what the occasion or meal, Salt Lake is the place to be for a memorable meal.
Breakfast & Brunch
The Underrated : Lazy Day Cafe
You may not have heard of Lazy Day Cafe. It’s a little gem of a breakfast place that’s literally tucked away in the corner of an easy to miss strip mall right on the cusp of Salt Lake and Millcreek. Get ready for a bit of a wait, especially on the weekends. Those who’ve discovered this establishment become loyal fans, but even with a longer wait time, this delicious foods make it worth every second. Try out the lemon pancakes, or eggs benedict. You won’t be sorry.
Hearty Breakfast: Hub and Spoke Diner
It took me far too long to discover Hub and Spoke. If you’re looking for a hearty meal that will fill you up, but with a vast range of options, Hub and Spoke is your place. Located closer to Sugar House, you won’t want to miss it! They have multiple different eggs benedict to choose from, which is one of my personal favorite brunch items. Come back later in the day and try one of their boozy milkshakes, trust me.
A Healthier Option : Roots Cafe
If you’re looking for breakfast and brunch options that won’t leave you feeling like you’re about to go into a food coma, this might be the place for you. The food is impeccable, with breakfast sandwiches, crepes you’d think about dying for, and satisfying buckwheat pancakes. It’s a mix of classic, and new. Definitely try out their fresh juices, you’ll leave feeling like a million bucks.
Lunch
Healthy Options : Aubergine & Company
All the food at Aubergine and Company is not only healthy, but satisfying as well as delicious. They have quite a few signature dishes to choose from, as well as build your own salad and sandwich options. There’s really no limit to what you can create, but thankfully it won’t throw you off track if you’re trying to have a health conscious meal. Whatever it is you order off the menu, make sure you try their homemade hummus, pita bread, and tzatziki sauce. If you’re looking for something on the lighter side, check out their smoothie menu. The Banana Monkey is highly recommended by foodies and employees alike.
Options For All : Vertical Diner
Even though Vertical could be on this list for it’s killer breakfast options—they serve breakfast all day, you’re welcome—it’s on the list for lunch, because frankly, it just carries a great “lunch at the diner” vibe. Although their menu features some delightfully greasy options, there’s enough variety that everyone can find a food option they’ll enjoy. Best yet, this diner caters to vegans and those with gluten intolerances. From the in-house made creamy vegan cheese, to the savory vegan gravy, those who aren’t vegan will likely be converts.
Dinner & Drinks
Salt Lake Staple : Lucky 13
This place has been around for years, and once you try it out you’ll know why. A block from the western side of the Smith’s Ballpark, you’ll see this place filled with burger and beer fans from morning till night. If you’re a fan of ending the night with a hearty meal, this place is for you. Their beef patties are out of this world, and their rosemary fries are similarly spectacular. Ask for recommendations from the staff, they know some great food and beer pairings. Nevertheless, definitely try out the Celestial Burger. A beef patty with house smoked bacon, grilled onions, cheddar cheese, and housemade barbecue sauce, you’ll feel like you’ve died and gone to heaven.
Classy Yet Comfortable : Lake Effect
Lake Effect considers itself Salt Lake’s “Big City” bar, and they are wonderfully correct in that statement. This craft cocktail bar combines delictiple drinks with a creative menu, making time spent here a true experience. If you’re looking to dine out in a location with ambiance, yet without the stuffy, pretentious vibe this place is it. With over 100 different wines, over 150 beers, and one of the largest spirit selections in the state, they are the prime place to find your new favorite cocktail. If you’re here to end the night, try out their Papas Fritas (garlic fries), or their Tin Can Nachos. The foods are both sophisticated as they are comforting.
The Underrated Choice : Rye Diner & Drinks
Located right next to Urban Lounge, Rye is fairly new on the scene, but they’ve made their mark. They have become well known for the brunch menu, but they recently started serving dinner. We can all be thankful for that. Try their sweet potato waffle fries, and their goat cheese appetizer. Their food is what I’d call the New Americana style; creative, enticing, and hip.