21 Ridiculously Cool Restaurants in Utah (And What to Order)

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Utah’s known for its national parks and jaw-dropping landscapes, but the food here? That’s the part no one talks about…and honestly, they should. I’ve road tripped all over the state, from the red rocks of Moab to the ski slopes of Park City, and some of the meals I’ve had along the way still stick with me.

This list pulls together 12 of the most unique restaurants I’ve come across in Utah. Think mountaintop yurts you snowshoe to for dinner, candlelit cabins in the woods, cozy spots in Zion with local wine and wild game, and even a restaurant inside a historic chapel. The vibes are unreal, and the food holds its own. Whether you’re hiking in Bryce, skiing in Deer Valley, or just passing through Salt Lake, these places are worth going out of your way for. In a state full of scenic detours, these might be the tastiest ones.

👉 Pro Tip: Explore Salt Lake City’s culinary scene with the Local Food Walking Tour! Visit top spots to taste local dishes while your guide shares insights about the city’s food, culture, and history. It’s the perfect mix of flavor and storytelling—ideal for food lovers looking to discover SLC in a unique way. Come hungry!

Coolest Places to Eat in UT

Ready to uncover Utah’s best restaurants? We’re about to dive into an incredible selection of eateries, from high-end dining marvels to charming hidden spots. Let’s embark on a journey to the most unique places to eat in UT, enticing you to stay in this state and savor the culinary flavors.

Ever imagined dining under the vast, starlit Utah sky or inside a cozy yurt nestled in the mountains? Or what about enjoying gourmet dishes in a place that celebrates the roaring ’20s? Utah’s dining landscape is as varied and majestic as its natural wonders. Here’s your ultimate guide to the most unique restaurants in Utah, one of the top places to visit in the Southwest USA.

1. Afghan Kitchen

• 📍 Location: Salt Lake City (South Salt Lake area)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Authentic Afghan
• 🔥 Standout Features: Traditional Afghan floor seating, kebabs/rice dishes (Qabuli Palaw).
• 🎯 Perfect For: Afghan food explorations, communal meals, and trying traditional floor seating.

Journey to Afghanistan at Afghan Kitchen! This gem offers an authentic taste of Afghan cuisine and culture, complete with traditional floor seating on Tochoks for an immersive experience. Prepare for a feast fit for a king!

Dive into fragrant dishes. Qabuli Palaw (tender lamb with seasoned rice, carrots, and raisins) is a national treasure. Succulent chapli kebabs (spicy minced meat patties) or delicate mantu (steamed dumplings) are also fantastic.

• Read Next: 12 Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots in Utah You Need to Visit

2. SLC Eatery

SLC Eatery is hands down one of the most creative dining experiences in Salt Lake City. The open kitchen energy is contagious, and the carts wheeled tableside feel almost like Utah’s answer to dim sum. Don’t pass on the duck croquettes if they’re rolling by, and the pearl barley risotto is a super-comforting standout. The minimalist, slightly industrial space strikes a cool balance – it’s lively enough for friends and also perfect for a more elevated date night. If you’re a Capitol Theatre fan, it’s right nearby, so pre-show dinner doesn’t get much easier. My tip: Book ahead. This spot buzzes on weekends.

3. Prairie Schooner

• 📍 Location: Ogden
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American Steakhouse / Western
• 🔥 Standout Features: Conestoga wagon replicas, Old West pioneer theme, hearty steaks/prime rib.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Families, Old West enthusiasts, steak lovers, and history buffs (of a sort!).

Giddy up, partner, and dine like a pioneer at the Prairie Schooner in Ogden! This unique spot lets you enjoy your meal cozied up inside your very own replica Conestoga covered wagon. It’s a taste of the Old West trail!

Feast on hearty American steakhouse fare. Juicy prime rib, slow-roasted to perfection, is a popular choice. Classic New York strip steaks or their flavorful sirloin steak are also great for hungry trailblazers. The unique wagon seating is a hit.

4. Table X

Table X is one of those rare spots that actually lives up to the hype. The dining room mixes farmhouse touches with Scandinavian vibes – there’s a huge wooden communal table near the front, plus lots of cozy nooks. Their bread service is legendary (they bake with grains from local Utah farms), and the seasonal chef’s tasting menu changes constantly. When I visited, the wagyu bavette just about melted in my mouth. They’re tucked away in an unassuming eastside spot – after dinner, swing by the nearby Sugar House Park for a sunset stroll. Pro tip: Ask your server about the off-menu bites.

5. Japan-Sage Market

• 📍 Location: Salt Lake City
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $25 per person (Market deli/prepared foods)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Japanese Market / Deli / Sushi / Prepared Foods
• 🔥 Standout Features: Japanese grocery store with deli counter, fresh sushi/sashimi, bento boxes/onigiri, imported Japanese snacks/drinks.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Sushi lovers, Japanese snack fans, quick lunch seekers, and home cooks needing ingredients.

Discover a little slice of Tokyo at Japan-Sage Market! This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an authentic Japanese grocery store with a fantastic deli counter serving up fresh, delicious prepared foods. It’s your one-stop shop for all things Nippon!

Grab some incredibly fresh sushi (like tuna or salmon rolls) or sashimi to enjoy. Pick up perfectly packed bento boxes for lunch. Savory onigiri (rice balls) with various fillings are also a highlight. It’s a treasure trove for authentic Japanese tastes.

• Read Next: 12 Fun Places to Eat in Salt Lake City: Foodie Favorites & Local Legends

6. Village Baker

If you’re on the hunt for a no-fuss lunch that’s actually amazing, Village Baker is a total gem. The smell of fresh bread hits you as soon as you walk in, and their open sandwich kitchen lets you watch the magic happen. The turkey pesto sandwich is a favorite, but their cinnamon rolls are what get the locals lining up early. It’s a laid-back, bright cafe with friendly staff and local art on the walls. Grab a loaf to go and picnic at one of the nearby community parks. Honestly, I could eat here every week and never get bored.

7. Tea Rose Diner

• 📍 Location: Murray
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Thai
• 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic Thai cuisine, curries/noodle dishes, friendly service.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Thai food, spice lovers, authentic Asian flavors, and casual date nights.

Spice up your life with authentic Thai flavors at Tea Rose Diner! This Murray gem serves traditional Thai dishes bursting with aromatic herbs and spices in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Get ready for a trip to Bangkok for your taste buds!

Dive into classic Thai favorites. Rich and creamy green curry or red curry with your choice of protein are excellent. Perfectly stir-fried pad thai noodles, or tangy tom yum soup with shrimp, are also beloved. The friendly service makes it a local spot.

8. Takashi

Takashi is THE sushi legend in Salt Lake – anyone who’s been here more than a week will tell you that. Don’t expect fusion gimmicks. This place is all about expert slicing, top-notch fish, and the best creative rolls in the city. The Tiger’s Eye roll and Toro Nigiri are both next-level. The atmosphere is modern yet comfortable, with wood tones and a low-key soundtrack that puts the focus on the food. It’s in the heart of downtown, so plan to wander Main Street or hit up the artsy shops at City Creek after dinner. Insiders know to show up before open for a seat without the long wait.

9. Log Haven

• 📍 Location: Millcreek Canyon, Salt Lake City
• 💲 Price range: $60 – $100+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Upscale American / New American / Mountain Cuisine
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic log mansion, beautiful canyon views, romantic atmosphere, award-winning wine list.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Romantic dinners, special occasions, nature lovers, and wine connoisseurs.

Escape to a fairytale mountain retreat at Log Haven! Nestled in a historic log mansion in scenic Millcreek Canyon, this award-winning restaurant offers breathtaking views, roaring fireplaces, and exquisite fine dining. It’s romance and rustic elegance, perfected.

Savor sophisticated New American cuisine. Expect beautifully plated dishes like perfectly seared elk striploin with huckleberry sauce. Delicate pan-roasted scallops with seasonal risotto, or their famous grilled bison tenderloin, are also fantastic.

10. Red Iguana 2

Red Iguana 2 is the bigger, slightly less frantic sibling of Salt Lake’s most-loved Mexican joint. Inside, it’s all vibrant murals and Day of the Dead decor, with a lively, family vibe. People drive miles for the housemade moles – especially the Mole Coloradito, which is complex and deeply savory. The killer margaritas definitely don’t disappoint, either. There’s plenty of space here (so less of a wait than the OG), and it’s just a quick hop from the Jordan River Parkway for a stroll after you’ve stuffed yourself. If you love bold flavors and local institution status, this place hits the jackpot.

11. Black Sheep Café

• 📍 Location: Provo
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $35 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern Southwestern / Navajo-Inspired
• 🔥 Standout Features: Navajo-inspired tacos/fry bread dishes, Southwestern flavors.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Southwestern food lovers, taco enthusiasts, fry bread fans, Provo food explorers, and modern Native American cuisine.

Baa-rilliant flavors await at the Black Sheep Café in Provo! This spot takes Southwestern cuisine and gives it a creative, modern twist, heavily inspired by Navajo culinary traditions. Get ready for tacos and fry bread like you’ve never had before!

Trying their signature Navajo tacos, piled high with seasoned ground beef, beans, cheese, lettuce, and tomato on fluffy fry bread, is essential. Inventive dishes like hog jowl tacos or their green chile cheeseburger on fry bread are also popular.

12. Tona Sushi Bar and Grill

If you’re out in Ogden, Tona is easily the top-notch pick for creative, ultra-fresh sushi. The space is modern with a little bit of zen garden flair – there’s a serene vibe, perfect for a relaxed dinner. The Utah Roll (wrapped in seared salmon) and miso-glazed black cod are can’t-miss. Every plate comes out looking like an edible work of art. Downtown Ogden’s galleries and indie shops are close by, so you can turn your meal into a mini adventure. Personal note: I still dream about that warm, housemade mochi cake for dessert.

13. Burgertory

• 📍 Location: Multiple locations
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Gourmet Burgers / American
• 🔥 Standout Features: “Build-your-own-burger” concept, signature burgers.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Burger lovers, picky eaters, family meals, and comfort food.

Confess your cravings for incredible burgers at Burgertory! This spot elevates the humble hamburger to heavenly heights with quality ingredients and creative combinations. Whether you build your own masterpiece or choose a signature creation, prepare for burger bliss!

Sink your teeth into juicy patties. “The Purgatory” burger with spicy toppings is a hit. Their classic cheeseburger with all the fixings, or the “Mushroom Swiss Burger,” are also fantastic. Don’t forget classic sides like crispy fries or thick shakes.

14. Nona Bistro

Nona Bistro is a cozy Italian eatery in Salt Lake’s Avenues, and it totally nails that “neighborhood secret” feeling. Inside, it’s intimate, with lots of dark wood, flickering candles, and photos of Italy on the walls. Their gnocchi ranks among the city’s softest pillows, but the real standout is the lemony chicken piccata. Wine pours are generous, and they always have a surprise dessert worth asking about. After dinner, walk around the leafy Avenues or hit Memory Grove a few blocks away. I loved the staff vibe here – super friendly and welcoming, even when it’s packed.

15. O’Falafel

• 📍 Location: Salt Lake City (Sugar House area)
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Middle Eastern / Mediterranean (Falafel Focus)
• 🔥 Standout Features: Crispy falafel, fresh Mediterranean salads/dips, affordable healthy eats.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Falafel fans, Mediterranean street food, quick lunches, vegetarian diners, and budget foodies.

Oh, what a falafel! Get your fix of perfectly crispy, flavorful falafel at O’Falafel in Sugar House. This spot nails the art of the Middle Eastern street food classic, serving it up fresh, fast, and fantastically.

Building your own falafel pita with all the traditional fixings – creamy hummus, tangy tahini, fresh veggies, and pickles – is a must. Their falafel platter or savory chicken shawarma are also popular. It’s a go-to for a quick, healthy taste.

• Read Next: 12 Unmissable Activities in Salt Lake City You’ll Love

16. HSL

HSL (Handle Salt Lake) is pure fancy-but-fun. The dining room is basically Utah farmhouse goes wild: potted plants everywhere, geometric wallpaper, and low lighting for max mood. Chef Briar Handly’s food is inventive without being pretentious. The fried chicken with pickled jalapeños is a must, and you’ve got to order the roasted carrots (trust me!). It’s right by Liberty Park, so it’s a perfect spot to refuel after wandering around the aviary or botanicals. Sit at the bar if you want to watch the kitchen crew in action – their teamwork is a show of its own. Every dish here feels like a little celebration.

17. Laan Na Thai

• 📍 Location: Salt Lake City
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Northern Thai
• 🔥 Standout Features: Northern Thai cuisine, regional specialties.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Thai food connoisseurs, Asian cuisine, and spice lovers.

Journey to Northern Thailand at Laan Na Thai! This restaurant specializes in the distinct and aromatic cuisine of the Laan Na region, offering flavors that go beyond your typical Thai takeout. Prepare for a delicious discovery of authentic dishes!

Explore unique dishes. The famous khao soi (a rich, coconut curry noodle soup with chicken or beef) is a must-try. Spicy sai oua (Northern Thai sausage) or flavorful gaeng hang lay (pork belly curry) are also fantastic. The focus is on traditional preparations.

• Read Next: 12 Amazing Hidden Gems in Salt Lake City, Utah, Only Locals Know About

18. Zest Kitchen & Bar

Plant-based eaters, rejoice – Zest turns veggies into crave-worthy comfort food. The vibe is upbeat and urban with bursts of color, sleek bar seating, and local art throughout. Their coconut curry polenta bowl is loaded with flavor, and the spicy jalapeño margarita will pretty much light up any brunch. All dishes are gluten-free, but you’d never guess it from the flavors. It’s steps from the Gallivan Center, so check the live music schedule and make a night of it. Local’s tip: The dessert menu (especially the brownie sundae) is shockingly good.

19. Five Alls Restaurant (Five Alls Inn)

• 📍 Location: Salt Lake City (Foothill area)
• 💲 Price range: $40 – $80 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Old-School Continental / American Fine Dining
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic building, multi-course fine dining, “Old English Inn” ambiance.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Traditional fine dining, special occasions, multi-course meals, and SLC history.

Step back into a bygone era at Five Alls Restaurant. This Salt Lake City institution has been serving classic Continental cuisine in a traditional “Old English Inn” setting for decades. It’s a timeless experience with attentive service.

Prepare for a multi-course feast. The meal includes soup, salad, and a palate-cleansing sorbet. For entrees, their prime rib is a standout. Classic chicken cordon bleu or fresh salmon with dill sauce are also excellent.

20. Central 9th Market

Central 9th Market is this super-cool, hyper-local corner shop and cafe where you can grab seriously good pizza and fresh sandwiches. The garage-style doors stay open on sunny days, and there’s always a crowd of cool folks sipping drinks at the picnic tables out front. The New York–style slices are oversized and perfectly crisp, but I’m forever obsessed with their breakfast sandwiches – the sausage, egg, cheddar combo is unbeatable. You’re close to Kilby Court (an awesome all-ages music venue), so this is the definitive pre-show fuel-up. Heads up: They sell out of pastries early, so go for breakfast if you can.

21. The Shooting Star Saloon

• 📍 Location: Huntsville
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American Dive Bar / Burgers
• 🔥 Standout Features: Utah’s oldest continuously operating saloon (since 1879!), quirky decor (dollar bills/taxidermy), famous Star Burger, cash only, no-frills historic vibe.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Dive bar lovers, burger fanatics, experiencing Utah history, quirky atmosphere seekers, and cash-only adventurers.

Step into Utah’s oldest saloon at The Shooting Star Saloon in Huntsville, serving since 1879! This cash-only dive bar is a true slice of history, with dollar bills stapled to the ceiling and quirky taxidermy. It’s legendary for its no-frills charm.

Their famous Star Burger, a double cheeseburger with a Polish sausage in the middle, is a must-try. A simple cheeseburger or a classic hot dog also hit the spot. It’s an unpretentious, iconic Utah experience.

22. Prohibition

• 📍 Location: Murray
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person (Food/Craft Cocktails)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern American / Gastropub / Speakeasy
• 🔥 Standout Features: 1920s speakeasy theme, craft cocktails, upscale bar bites.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Cocktail lovers, unique dates, 1920s glam, and upscale bars.

Whisper the password and step back into the Roaring Twenties at Prohibition! This Murray spot channels the illicit glamour of a 1920s speakeasy, complete with a moody ambiance, killer craft cocktails, and delicious modern American fare. It’s the bee’s knees!

Sip on expertly mixed classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned or a French 75. Their inventive signature creations, often with house-made infusions, are also fantastic. The menu features upscale bar bites like duck fat fries or gourmet sliders.

• Read Next: 12 Amazingly Beautiful Places in Utah You Need to Visit

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Utah’s Coolest Restaurants

Are you searching for more information about where to eat in Utah? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about Utah’s most unique restaurants.

What foods are famous in Utah?

There’s a few foods that Utah is renowned for. First up, you can’t visit without trying the scones. But forget what you know about British scones; Utah’s version is deep-fried goodness served with honey butter. Then there’s the iconic Funeral Potatoes – a cheesy, creamy, crunchy potato casserole that’s a comfort food staple. And let’s not forget about the Utah staple, Fry Sauce. It’s a simple, yet irresistible mix of ketchup and mayonnaise, perfect for dipping those fries.

Is Utah known for chocolate?

Utah might not be the first place you think of for chocolate, but it’s home to some award-winning chocolatiers. Places like Caputo’s Market in Salt Lake City offer a treasure trove of local and international chocolates. And then there’s Ritual Chocolate in Park City, crafting bean-to-bar goodness that’s won them national acclaim. So, yes, Utah’s definitely got its chocolate game on point.

What food is Salt Lake City known for?

Salt Lake City is famous for its vibrant brewery scene, incredible Mexican food thanks to its diverse population, and, of course, those unique Utah dishes like Funeral Potatoes and Fry Sauce. Plus, the city’s burgeoning foodie scene means you’re never far from an innovative dish or a twist on a classic, making it one of the top places to live and visit in Utah.

What are 3 interesting facts about Utah?

• Diverse Landscapes: Utah is home to five national parks (the Mighty 5). Each offers breathtaking landscapes from the red rock formations of Arches to the canyons of Zion.
• Outdoor Recreation Capital: It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it’s skiing in the world-renowned powder snow or mountain biking in Moab, Utah’s got it all.
• Historical Richness: Utah has a fascinating history, from the ancient Ancestral Puebloans to the Mormon pioneers. Plus, it played a significant role in the development of the transcontinental railroad.