- Date indicates the most recent update of the restaurants listed
- Bold indicates my recommendations; others come from what I consider to be good sources
Beaver
Maria’s Cocina–1419 E. 200 N. (Mexican) Dinner only (closed Mon & Tue). Seems to be at least reasonably authentic (horchata is said to be very good). Only about 8 tables inside–outdoor patio is popular in good weather. Salsa is said to be very good and green chile looks good from photos. Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Boulder
Burr Trail Grill–10 N. Hwy 12 (Organic) Lunch only (open daily)–open to 6:30 pm Sat & Sun. Organic food–everything is grown in their garden (but they do have meat dishes). Thai style burger is popular. Seems to be more casual than Hell’s Backbone (this is mainly a sandwich place). Map (Temporarily closed 2-18-23)
Hell’s Backbone–20 N. Hwy 12 (Southwest) Open daily (dinner only). Local & sustainable. Expensive, but people say you are paying for chefs who know what they are doing and prepare dishes the right way. Map (Temporarily closed 2-18-23)
Bountiful
Mandarin–348 E. 900 N. (Chinese) Dinner only (closed Sun). Food seems to be high quality and some dishes look as if they would satisfy my taste for authentic food (has Chinese and Thai) such as pork with garlic sauce, coconut Thai curry chicken, ginger beef, etc Map (Dining room is open 2-18-23)
Brigham City
Idle Isle Cafe–24 S. Main St. (American) Mon 11-7; Tue-Thu 11-2:30; Fri 11-8; Sat 11-2:30. A big part of the reason to come is that it opened in 1921 and still operates the same way–and old fashioned soda shop. The other part is what they serve–pot roast (served daily), corned beef and cabbage (Tue only), turkey dinner (Sat only), etc. Idleberry pie is recommended (made with blue, black, and boysenberries)s. I’m sure they have milk shakes, etc., but what everyone raves about is the food. Map (Dining room is open 2-25-22)
Jakimelis Mexican Bakery–142 N. Main St. (Mexican) Open 7 am to 8 pm (closed Sun). Restaurant and bakery with pan dulce and what are said to be very good tacos (pastor and carne asada are popular), and people like the home made tortillas. Map (Dining room is open 12-6-21)
Clearfield
Argentine Corner–442 N. Main St. (Argentinian) Open 11 am to 7 pm (closed Sun). Reviewers indicate it is not exactly like being in Argentina but it is close. Has empenadas and plate dinners. Food is made fresh so you have to wait for it. Map (Dining room is open 12-3-21)
Haru Ramen–1266 S. Legend Hills Dr. (Japanese) Closed Sun. Ramen is said to be very good. Miso ramen is said by some to be the best. Map (Dining room is open 8-19-21)
High Hat Diner–1147 N. Main St. (Mexican) Open 8 am to 2 pm (open Fri-Sun only). Breakfast is popular. Mexican food with green chile is popular (breakfast with green chile is popular as well). Map (Dining room is open 7-10-22)
Pho Banh–1286 S. Legend Hills Dr. (Vietnamese) Closed Sun evening. Reviewers say this is the best Vietnamese in Davis County, which isn’t saying a whole lot, but they say the food is legit. Serves pho, banh mi, and a few other dishes such as rice plates with toppings such as Korean beef or vegan lemongrass tofu. Map (Dining room is open 11-2-21)
Escalante
Georgie’s Outdoor Mexican Cafe–10 S. 500 W. (Mexican) Open 11 am to 6 pm (closed Sun & Mon). Food truck with outdoor tables under a canopy. Reviewers say food is authentic (not Tex-Mex and not like chain food). They like the tacos, and many point out the quesadilla as being especially good. Map (Outdoor patio is open 11-14-21)
Green River
Tamarisk–1710 E. Main St. (American) Open daily 7 am to 9 pm. Standard American food, but is better than many places because of high quality ingredients (according to reviews), and has a nice view of the river. Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Heber City
Back 40 Ranch House–1223 N. Hwy 40 (American) Open Daily. Serves family style meals at dinner. This is a farm to table restaurant (so I don’t think they have a permanent menu–it changes according to what is available). Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Kanab
Luo’s Cafe–365 S. 100 E. (Chinese) Closed Sat lunch & Sun. Reviewers say it has some authentic dishes such as mapo tofu, chinese broccoli, bittermelon & beef, etc. Map (Dining room is open 2-18-23)
Rocking V–97 W. Center St. (Southwest) Closed Tue & Wed. Food supposedly is as good as in San Francisco or New York. Veggie enchilada is popular (also serves meat dishes). Fish tacos and key lime pie are good. Map (Dining room is open 2-18-23)
Layton
Black Bear Diner–310 E. Gentile St. (Diner) Open daily 6 am to 10 pm. Most reviews are for breakfast. They say the pancakes are some of the best ever (baked items such as chicken pot pie, bear claws, etc. are said to be good). This is part of a chain, but still said to be one of the best breakfasts. Map (Dining room is open 12-3-21)
Little Taste of Britain–768 W 1425 N (British) Lunch Mon-Sat; dinner Fri & Sat (closed Sun). Reviewers say the fish and chips are spot on. Pea soup is also recommended. The weird thing is that Hug-Hes Cafe is also supposed to have good fish and chips, and Sill’s Cafe is supposed to have good scones (both of these are also in Layton). The scones, though, appear to be a Utah version that resembles a sopapilla, and bears little relation to the English ones. In any case, though, there does seem to be some good British food in this town. Map (Dining room is open 11-2-21)
99 Thai Fusion–768 W 1425 N (Thai) Closed Tue (and opens at 1:30 on Sun). Reviews are good. Curry is recommended (they also have some less common dishes such as papaya salad). Map (Dining room is open 11-2-21)
Sill’s Cafe–335 E. Gentile St. (American) Open daily except Sun afternoon & evening. Mom & pop spot that is best know as having the iconic Utah style scones (these are similar to Navajo fry bread and sopapillas). Its other baked items are very popular as well (pancakes, biscuits, etc.). Map (Dining room is open 8-27-22)
Logan
Bluebird–19 N. Main St. (American) Closed Sun. I’m not sure if people really go here for the food or for the quirkiness and novelty of it. It is a restaurant owned by Asian people who serve American food, but they have some Asian dishes such as sweet and sour chicken. One of the most popular American items (and supposedly extremely good) is the strawberry chicken (grilled chicken with a strawberry glaze). Also the desserts are very popular (especially the mud pie). Has a candy store inside the restaurant, and many people come just for this. Map (Temporarily closed 7-10-22)
Tandoori Oven–720 E. 1000 N. (Indian) Closed Sun. Indian restaurant inside a gas station–people say the food is solid. They especially like that the spice level is straightforward–it you ask for spicy they will make it spicy. Map (Dining room is open 11-2-21)
Thai House–51 W. 200 S. (Thai) Closed Sun (and closed from 3:30 to 4:30 pm). Thai food that impresses people from other cities, and which gets very good reviews. Map (Dining room is open 12-3-21)
Moab
Antica Forma–267 N. Main St. (Pizza) Open Daily. Wood fired pizza that gets good reviews. Map (Dining room is open 2-18-23)
Arches Thai–60 N. 100 W. (Thai) Open Daily. Authentic and very good Thai, but prices are about double what they would be at most Thai restaurants. Curry is recommended (but all dishes appear to be good). Map (Dining room is open 2-18-23)
Desert Bistro–36 S. 100 W. (Southwest) Dinner only (closed Tue). Prices are far above most other restaurants in town, but it has had excellent reviews for years, and I think this is probably the best fine dining choice. When I was in Moab I looked at their menu posted outside and saw that it was too expensive for me, but I think people will love the food if they can afford it. Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Miguel’s Baja Grill–51 N. Main St. (Mexican). Dinner only (closed Tue). Fish tacos were good (in fact, some of the best I have had). However, the beans, rice, and salsa were somewhat bland. Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Singha Thai–92 E. Center St. (Thai) Closed Sun lunch and closed from 3 to 5 pm. More Americanized than Bangkok House, but customers can ask for food “Thai style” and order some off-the-menu dishes that are very authentic. Note: Bangkok House is still open but Arches Thai now has better reviews. Map (Temporarily closed 2-18-23)
Monticello
Doug’s Steak and BBQ–496 N. Main St. (BBQ, Steakhouse) Dinner only (Thu-Sat only). Based on reviews, most people order the BBQ, and say it is very good (pulled pork, ribs, brisket, etc.). Some do not like the sauce, though. Map (Dining room is open 8-26-21)
Ja Roen Thai Sushi–380 S. Main St. (Thai) Open daily (closed from 2 to 4 pm). Most reviewers say they were surprised to find Thai food this good in a small town like this. Down side seems to be that there is one person cooking, so wait may be longer than you want if you have a limited time to eat before hitting the road again. Map (Dining room is open 2-18-23)
North Salt Lake
Our Kitchen Cafe–985 N. Redwood Rd. (Breakfast) Open daily 7 am to 2 pm. One reviewer says this is one of the top 3 breakfast places in the SL Valley, and others confirm the good quality of the food. Waffles, omelette, country fried steak, carne asada tacos, and huevos rancheros, and chilaquiles are recommended. Map (Dining room is open 12-4-21)
Ogden
Aroy D Thai–1167 W. 12th St. (Thai) Closed Sun & Mon. Mostly good reviews. It seems to be the best Thai food in northern Utah (north of SLC). Map (Dining room is open 8-19-21)
Hanamaru–357 E. 37th St. (Japanese) Dinner Wed-Sat; lunch Sat only. Udon, katsu curry, ramen, shabu shabu, sushi. Mostly everyday Japanese food done very well at good prices. Note: was closed during Jan & Feb 2019 (perhaps the chef goes to Japan periodically?) Map (Dining room is open 8-26-21)
Rosa’s Cafe–2660 Washington Blvd. (Mexican) Breakfast & lunch Wed-Sun; dinner Fri & Sat. Enchiladas, burritos, etc. are covered with chile verde and/or chile colorado (some indicate that the chile verde is better). One reviewer says this is El Paso style, and he knows because he is from El Paso. Map (Dining room is open 11-2-21)
Orem
Asado Argentinian Grill–360 S. State St. (Argentinian) Closed Sun. Good reviews–people like the quality and the flavor. There are two sections of the menu–the cheap section has empanadas, etc. and the expensive section has steaks (and people say they are memorable). Map (Dining room is open 12-4-21)
Bangkok Grill–934 N. State St. (Thai) Closed Sat lunch & Sun. A restaurant for “picky eaters” (such as ones who have been to Thailand). Curries and noodle dishes are recommended (some curries are spicier than others, so you might want to order based on what spiciness you want). Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Great China–1632 S. State St. (Chinese) Closed Sun. Mostly American style dishes, but it has pan fried noodles (and is a place Chinese people can go and find something they consider to be authentic). Reviews did not give very many details, though. If you get Americanized food they say it is cheaper than the other places. Map (Dining room is open 8-19-21)
Keloke Dominican Rest.–266 N. State St. (Dominican) Open 11 am to 7 pm (closed Sun & Mon). Served fast food style, but reviewers say it is authentic and very flavorful. Beef stew and passionfruit drink is one of the choices that would make a good introduction to this cuisine. Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Red Fuego–820 E. 800 N. (Peruvian) Open 11 am to 9 pm (closed Sun). Reviewers say the food is comparable to Peruvian food in large cities in the US (with very good restaurants). Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
TRUreligion Pancake & Steakhouse–360 S. State St. (American) Breakfast & lunch only (open daily). When almost everyone talks about the breakfast, and say it is the best in Utah County, I think this is what most people consider to be their best food. I particularly like the fact that multiple items come with an optional green chile (and they say the green chile is very good) Map. (Dining room is open 8-26-21)
Park City
Bangkok Thai–605 Main St. (Thai) Open daily 12 pm to 9 pm. A good choice to get good food at a reasonable price in PC (not an easy thing to accomplish). Most say the food is good but the service is bad. It helps to get a reservation (this will make the service better for you). Map (Dining room is open 12-3-21)
Fletcher’s–562 Main St. (New American) Dinner only (open daily). Good choice for your upscale, special occasion experience. Steak, chicken, mussels, ribs, lamb shank, and probably several other entrees are all very good. Everyone raved about the biscuits and jam (served with all meals). I’m listing this restaurant because people say it is worth the price. Map (Dining room is open 7-10-22)
Harvest–820 Park Ave. (Cafe) Open daily 8 am to 3 pm. Based on a post on Gil’s Thrilling (And Filling) Blog it make me think you have have the quality here of Park City’s upscale restaurants without the high prices, so this place looks like a winner for breakfast or lunch. Map (Dining room is open 9-13-21)
Kuchu Shabu–3720 N. Sundial Ct. (Japanese) Closed Sun (and closed from 2 to 5 pm) Has shabu shabu, poke, hot pot, pho, etc. People complain about high prices and small portions, but have a high opinion about the food. Map (Dining room is open 12-3-21)
Szechwan–1612 Ute Blvd. (Chinese) Closed Mon. This is a place that is inexpensive (by PC standards), has good service (waiters are not snooty), and you don’t need reservations. It also has good food, but it’s mostly Americanized. The lunch specials are about $10 (with American style dishes). There are some “authentic” dishes on the dinner menu (twice cook pork, etc.) but they are more expensive. This does not sound great, but it sounds good for PC. Map (Dining room is open 8-19-21)
Perry
Maddox Ranch House–1900 S. Hwy 89 (Steakhouse) Open Tue-Sat (open until 9:30 pm). Primarily a steak place, but has turkey and trout (as well as fried chicken, hamburgers, and other items more popular at lunch). Yeast rolls with raspberry butter, chicken, homemade pies are very good. They raise their own beef and brew their own root beer. Very large restaurant (and people apparently drive from SLC to eat here). Map (Dining room is open 11-2-21)
Price
Farlaino’s Cafe–87 W. Main St. (American) Open 7 am to 7 pm (closed Sun). It is not totally American–it has some Italian dishes including Italian sausage that people say is great for lunch or breakfast (Groovin Gourmet on Chowhound recommends the Italian sausage sandwich for lunch). Pancakes are recommended for breakfast or burgers for lunch. Map (Dining room is open 8-26-21)
Provo
Black Sheep Cafe–19 N. University Ave. (Native American) Closed Sun (and closed from 2:30 to 5 pm). Owners combine their Navajo dishes from their childhood with Southwestern flavors such as green chile, and the result is a very popular restaurant with a vast menu compared to what I have seen at other Native American restaurants. Green chile Navajo taco seems to be the most popular, but reviews of other items indicate it is best to keep an open mind about what you order. Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Bombay House–463 N. University Ave. (Indian) Dinner only (closed Sun). Probably the best Indian restaurant in a several-state area. Less spicy than most Indian restaurants, but you can get it spicier if you ask. Not a buffet–dishes are individually cooked. (Additional locations in SLC). Map (Dining room is open 8-19-21)
Communal–102 N. University Ave. (New American) Dinner only; lunch & dinner on Sat (closed Sun). Seasonal and locally sourced food. Tends to be upscale and expensive, but portions are big (and they encourage people to share). People say the butterscotch pudding is not to be missed. Do not come here if you like high fat and sodium content (I think because of this some reviewers say the food is bland). However, because of the prices I would say take care in what you order. Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Hruska’s Kolaches–434 W. Center St. (Bakery) Open 6:30 am until they run out of kolaches–usually about 11:30 am (closed Sun). Breakfast kolaches are popular (sausage, egg, etc.). Fruit kolaches are also very good. Map (Takeout and delivery only 8-19-21)
Koko Lunchbox–1175 N. Canyon Rd. (Korean) Open 11:30 am to 8:30 pm (closed Sun). Authentic Korean–because of this it has better reviews than many other Asian restaurants in the Provo area (in fact I think it has the best reviews on Yelp). Some say it is as good as the food trucks in other cities, but here you can eat it in a restaurant setting. Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Molly’s–753 W. Columbia Ln. (American) Lunch only (Wed-Sat only). It is said to be home style food, and food you would find at a cafeteria but served restaurant style. Some reviewers recommend ordering something simple (more complicated dishes like meat loaf lack spicing). Map (Temporarily closed 12-4-21)
Note: Provo and Orem have a notable variety of ethnic restaurants due to Mormon missionaries going to just about every country, with some of the converts wanting to go to BYU for school and to stay in the area afterwards. I do not know if I have included the best ones on the list, and this certainly is not all of them, but I tried to include ones that had good reviews.
Roosevelt
Marion’s Variety–29 N. Main St. (Soda Fountain) Closed Sat evening & Sun. Reviewers say this is a drug store soda fountain with good hamburgers and even better milk shakes. Steak sandwich and other sandwiches are also good options. Map (Dining room 12-6-21)
Saint George
Durango–245 Red Cliffs Dr. (Mexican) Closed Sun. Reviewers say it is better than Cafe Rio. Has green enchiladas, so I think it is worth a try. Map (Dining room is open 8-19-21)
Honolulu Grill–706 E. 700 S. (Hawaiian) Open 11 am to 8 pm (closed Sun). Good value, and good Hawaiian style food. Katsu chicken, kalua pork, macaroni salad are good. Map (Dining room is open 12-4-21)
Red Fort Cuisine of India–148 S. 1470 E. (Indian) Dinner only (closed Tue). Reviewers say this is the real deal (many of them compare this to restaurants in large cities). Map (Dining room is open 12-4-21)
Viva Chicken–1183 E. 100 S. (Peruvian) Closed daily 11 am to 9 pm. Has a large menu with probably anything you would want (including plantains and arroz chaufa). Chicken dishes are all recommended, but especially the rotisserie chicken. Map (Dining room is open 12-4-21)
Wagon Wheel Diner–2654 Red Cliffs Dr. (American) Breakfast & lunch only (closed Wed). Reviewers say this is the best place in the area to get breakfast. Located just west of the town of Washington. Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Salina
Mom’s Cafe–10 E. Main St. (American) Open daily 7 am to 8 pm (closes at 9 pm Fri & Sat and 7 pm on Sun). Jane & Michael Stern were impressed by its scones, a Utah specialty (somewhat akin to New Mexico sopapillas and Indian fry bread), that are fresh and hot at breakfast. They also enjoyed the “people watching” you can do here at a staging point for people making day trips to the surrounding national parks. Map (Dining room is open 8-27-22)
Salt Lake City
All Chay–1264 W. 500 N. (Vietnamese) Closed Mon (and closed from 2 pm to 5 pm). Vegetarian Vietnamese food that is so good it is the number one restaurant on Yelp in SLC. All the flavors are said to be authentically Asian. Map (Dining room is open 8-26-21)
Bruges Waffles & Frites–336 W. 300 S. (Belgian) Open daily except Sun. evening. Popular for breakfast (serves several types of Belgian waffles). Sandwiches, frites, and desserts are popular. Also in Provo and Draper. Map (Dining room is open 7-20-22)
Cafe Guanaco–1460 S. State St. (Salvadoran) Open 11 am to 9 pm (closed Sun). Specialty is pupusas that are said to be delicious and “filled with tons of cheese and meat.” Carne asada pupusa is recommended. Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Cafe on Main–2701 S. Main St. (Bosnian) Open 10 am to 7 pm (closed Sat & Sun). Sudzukice (sausage) plate, tomato and cucumber salad, and tufahija for dessert are recommended. Other items to try include kebabs, schnitzel, and cevapi (grilled dish of minced meat). Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Caputo’s Market & Deli–314 W. 300 S. (Deli) Open 9 am to 7 pm (10-5 on Sun). Gil Garduño (of Gil’s Thrilling & Filling Blog) was impressed with this restaurant enough that I really need no other sources in order to put it on this list, although others (such as Google Maps) are equally enthusiastic. Specializing in Italian sandwiches, Gil especially likes the Meatball and the “Old School” sandwiches, although he rates all of ones he has tried as among his favorites anywhere. Map (Dining room is open 2-18-23)
Curry Fried Chicken–660 S. State St. (Pakistani) Closed Sun (and closed from 2:30 to 5 pm Mon-Wed). On Taste of Home’s list of the best fried chicken in each state, but reviewers on Google Maps seem to be equally impressed with the Middle Eastern food (hummus, shawarma, etc). They also say don’t miss the curry fries. Map (Dining room is open 7-19-22)
Dim Sum House–1158 S. State St. (Chinese) Closed Wed. Dim sum served all day. Serves congee and some menu items. Everything is said to be authentic. Map (Dining room is open 8-26-21)
Feldman’s Deli–2005 E. 2700 S. (Deli) Closed Sun & Mon. Jewish deli with very good reviews. Reuben is apparently the most popular item, but this restaurant also offers a number of items that are difficult to find just about anywhere in the West. Map (Dining room is open 8-26-21)
Golden Dragon–1716 S. State St. (Chinese) Open Daily. Dim sum and authentic menu items, but the emphasis seems to be on the latter. Map (Dining room is open 7-10-22)
Kobe–3947 Wasatch Blvd. (Japanese) Open daily except Sun lunch (closed from 2 to 5 pm Mon-Fri). Known for it ramen (many say it compares with Tosh’s and it’s easier to get a table). Also has other menu items. Map (Dining room is open 12-3-21)
Les Madeleines–216 E. 500 S. (Bakery) Open 8 am to 2 pm (3 pm Fri & Sat); (closed Sun & Mon). Gil Garduño (Gil’s Thrilling Blog) describes a French pastry called Kouign-Amann that is crunchy and gooey at the same time with a caramel flavor. The specialty here is French pastries but has breakfast items as well (most reviewers think whatever you get should include the Kouign-Amann). Map (Dining room is open 9-13-21)
Market Street Grill–48 W. Market St. (American) Open daily (closed from 2 to 5 pm). I was impressed by their fish specials, consisting of fresh fish flown in daily (the fish makes you imagine that you are in Seattle, where I had eaten very similar fresh fish the day before eating here). Map (Dining room is open 9-13-21)
Mi Lindo Nayarit–145 E. 1300 S. (Mexican) Open Daily. Said to be very authentic. Specializes in seafood, such as octopus and paella nayarita. Huevos rancheros are said to be one of the best in the city. Map (Dining room is open 12-4-21)
Nauvoo Cafe–15 E. South Temple St. (American) Lunch only (closed Sat & Sun). Owned by the LDS Church and open to the public. Home style cooking served cafeteria style. Some say this is better than Lion House on the same block, but both have similar food. No coffee or tea is served, but they have decaf Coke. Turkey pot pie is the most recommended dish here (pot pie is also the most popular dish at Lion House, but the big thing at Lion House is the rolls). Some food may be bland and/or salty (like a typical cafeteria). Map (Dining room is open 12-3-21)
Nomad East–1675 E. 1300 S. (Pizza) Open daily except Sun lunch. Gil Garduño (Gil’s Thrilling And Filling Blog) says this is one of the ten best pizzas he’s ever had, so I think this is enough to put it on this list. In addition, though, the roasted local peach dessert looks like a must try dish. Map (Dining room is open 9-13-21)
Oh Mai–3425 S. State St. (Vietnamese) Closed Sun. Specializes in pho and banh mi, but has a varied menu. Offers vegetarian pho, and uses no MSG in the food. I think it looks interesting, and probably compares favorable to restaurants in larger cities. Map (Dining room is open 8-26-21)
Red Iguana–736 W. North Temple St. (Mexican) Open 11 am to 9 pm Sun-Thu; 11-10 Fri & Sat. Has 7 types of mole (I only saw 6 on their menu, but this would be plenty). Note: there is another Red Iguana at 866 South Temple. I have seen on reviews that reservations are a good idea and parking is a problem (at least at the S Temple location). Map (Dining room is open 2-25-22)
Roots Cafe–3474 S. 2300 E. (American) Open 7 am to 3 pm (closed Mon & Tue). If this isn’t one of the best breakfast restaurants in SLC, it is at least one that I think people will want to put in their rotation. Menu has items not found at most places (breakfast sandwich on ciabatta, orange and strawberry pancakes, buckwheat pancakes, eggs benedict, etc.). Breakfast burrito and huevos rancheros are some of the ones most recommended in the city (both come with a house made salsa). Lunch menu includes sandwiches, enchilada casserole, chicken picatta, chile verde burrito, and shepheds pie (in season). Map (Dining room is open 12-4-21)
Saffron Valley–26 E St. East (Indian) Closed Mon (and closed from 2:30 to 5 pm). Appears to be a very high quality Indian restaurant that specializes in South Indian food (including dosa). Includes an Indo-Chinese menu. Four locations in SLC including South Jordan and Riverton (each restaurant has “Location Specials” that are only served at that restaurant). Map (Dining room is open 12-4-21)
Settebello–260 S. 200 W. (Pizza) Open Daily. “Almost” authentic Neapolitan pizza (but they say it’s about the best you are going to find in Utah or a lot of other places). VPN approved. Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Thai Garden–868 E. 900 S. (Thai) Open Daily except Sun lunch (and closed from 3 to 5 pm). Groovin’ Gourmet says it’s better than Lotus of Siam in Las Vegas–red curry with pumpkin is recommended. Map (Dining room is open 8-26-21)
The Med–420 E. 3300 S. (Persian) Closed Mon & Tue. Persian & Turkish cuisine. There are several comments saying the food is not authentic, but Persian food is so good I think it might still be worth a try. Map (Dining room is open 8-26-21)
Tortas Y Jugos El Morelense–2470 S. Redwood Rd. (Mexican) Closed Sun evening & Mon. Recommended place for authentic Mexican street food. Map (Dining room is open 8-26-21)
Tosh’s Ramen–1465 S. State St. (Japanese) Closed Sun (and closed from 2:30 to 5 pm). Many say it is the best ramen in SLC, but is inconsistent (one visit could be great and another not so much). Take your pick between this and Kobe (also Tonkatsu is good). Map (Dining room is open 8-26-21)
South Salt Lake
Afghan Kitchen–3142 S. Main St. (Afghan) Dinner only (closed Mon). Traditional Afghan food, which is a combination of Middle Eastern and Indian (based on some of the dishes that are available). Map (Dining room is open 8-26-21)
Navajo Hogan–447. E. 3300 S. (Native American) Lunch only (closed Sun & Mon). Mutton stew on Sat. is popular. Navajo taco is a best seller, and many like the blue corn version. Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Spanish Fork
Los 2 Potrillos–146 S. Main St. (Mexican) Open 10 am to 10 pm (closed Sun). Authentic south of the border style food. Specializes in fish tacos (owner is from So. Cal. and has connections to get fresh fish). Also has enchiladas suizas and other menu items. Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Springdale
Park House Cafe–1880 Zion Park Blvd. (American) Open daily 8 am to 2 pm (I think in winter it is closed Tue). Popular for breakfast. Eggs Benedict are recommended. Map (Dining room is open 7-19-22)
Spotted Dog Cafe–428 Zion Park Blvd. (American) Open for breakfast and dinner only (no lunch). Mainly popular for dinner because it is casual but the food is more upscale than most (and not too expensive). Map (Dining room is open 7-10-22)
Springville
Art City Trolley–256 N. Main St. (American) Closed Sun. This restaurant has somewhat of a cult following–you sit in a real trolley car and eat diner food (but people say it is very good). Apparently there is a dining room next door if the trolley is overcrowded (which it frequently seems to be). People recommend hamburgers, mac & cheese, quesadilla, Philly sandwich. Map (Dining room is open 12-3-21)
Sundance
Tree Room–8841 N. Alpine Loop (American) Open Tue-Sat (dinner only). Robert Redford’s 5 star restaurant. Fine dining and expensive, and it seems to be a place that everyone enjoys. Map (Dining room is open 12-3-21)
Teasdale
Gifford Homestead–Capitol Reef National Park Scenic Dr. (Pie Shop) Open daily 8 am to 5 pm. Sells pies made from Utah fruit trees. Roadfood says pies are fresh and show stellar cooking techniques. Pies are “individual size” (equivalent to about two slices) so they are easy to eat before the time they would need to be refrigerated. Also has ice cream and pastries. Building is also a museum that describes the history of the Mormon pioneers who settled the land. Map (Takeout only 2-25-22)
Torrey
Capitol Reef Inn–360 W. Main St. (American) Open daily 7 am to 9 pm. Seems to be more New American than traditional American (lemon-hickory chicken is one of the specialties). Said to have good food at good prices. Map (Seasonal–closed in winter 2-25-22)
Pioneer Kitchen–2600 Utah Hwy 24 (American) Open daily (serves breakfast and dinner, but no lunch). Located inside the Capitol Reef Resort, and is open all year. Breakfast seems to be good but simple. Reviewers are more excited about dinner–they like the burgers, orange trout, chicken pot pie, etc. Map (Dining room is open 2-25-22)
Vernal
Antica Forma–251 E. Main St. (Pizza) Closed Sun. Gourmet pizza made with fresh mozzarella and interesting toppings. Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
West Jordan
BFF Turon–8860 S. Redwood Rd. (Filipino) Closes at 7 pm (closed Sun). Like most ethnic restaurants in Utah, the real comparison to make is with restaurants in other states. Reviewers say this restaurant stands the test very well. Turon is their specialty, but there is a large list of dishes with excellent reviews. Map (Dining room is open 7-19-22)
West Valley City
Don Pollo–3531 S. 5600 W. (Mexican) Open daily 10 am to 10 pm. Specializes in Mexican style charbroiled chicken and various types of tacos (reviews are excellent for these as well as the salsas, etc.). Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Myung Ga–3353 S. Decker Dr. (Korean) Open 11 am to 9 pm (closed Sun). Korean food that is delicious enough to impress people who are novices to the cuisine, and varied enough to give veterans something new to try. Tofu soup is highly rated. Map (Dining room is open 11-14-21)
Pho Cali–1631 W. 3500 S. (Vietnamese) Open daily except Mon evening. Some reviewers say it is comparable to Vietnamese food in California, and a large number say this is the best Vietnamese food in the Valley. Especially recommended are the chicken pho and the vermicelli bowls. Map (Dining room is open 2-25-22)
Red Maple Chinese–2882 W. 4700 S. (Chinese) Open Daily. One of the best dim sum restaurants in SLC, if not the best (reviewers say it tastes fresh). Also has a Chinese menu of other dishes. Map (Takeout only 7-10-22)
Thai Star–3197 S. Redwood Rd. (Thai) Dinner daily; lunch Thu-Mon. Serves Thai food with some Lao dishes (but other restaurants have a better selection of Lao food). The best features here are freshness, good flavor, and good quality. I am not sure if it is really authentic based on reviews I read. Map (Dining room is open 11-2-21)
Tuk Tuk’s–2222 W. 3500 S. (Thai) Closed Sun (and closed from 3 to 5 pm). Reviewers say it is authentic, and I am suspicious of this because of my experience with ethnic food in Utah and other states, but almost all reviews say it is very good. Has a wide variety of choices including pad prik khing (the dish that is usually my favorite at Thai restaurants). Map (Dining room is open 2-25-22)
Woods Cross
Hungry Hawaiian–1492 S. 800 W. (Hawaiian) Closed Sun & Mon (and closed from 2 to 4 pm). This is a local restaurant with very good reviews. Has Hawaiian plate lunches. Also in Provo. Map (Dining room is open 12-4-21)
- For additional explanation of this list see Index
- Please feel free to leave your own comments or suggestions.
Note About “50 States, 50 Dishes” (Condé Nast)
Condé Nast published an article on Jul. 3, 2018 using various sources to compile a “list of the dishes that capture the hearts, souls, and (oh, yes) stomachs of these 50 states (plus Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico), and where you should order them.” For Utah it was fried scones. These originated with Mormon missionaries working with the Navajo nation, doing a takeoff on Navajo fry bread.
Editors suggest trying it at Sill’s Cafe in Layton, saying it has a light homemade dough.
Note About “50 States, 50 Cuisines” (Condé Nast)
Condé Nast published an article on Sep. 14, 2020 explaining how they set out to go beyond a previous article that had identified the signature dish for each state, and to find food that goes beyond the classics and “to highlight a cuisine worth traveling to each state for, much of which you truly can’t get anywhere else.” For Utah it was Indigenous Southwestern Food of the Diné People of the Navajo Nation.
They say there are many restaurants and food stands between Salt Lake City and the state’s five national parks. A standout, though is Black Sheep Cafe in Provo. Dishes served include green chile and pork Navajo tacos and hog jowl nachos. Pueblo breads include fry bread used on the Navajo taco and a nanniskadii bun on the Black Sheep Burger. The food here is a melding of traditional Navajo dishes with Southwestern flavors.
Sources:
Adventure is Never Far Away “My Favorite Ethnic Restaurants in Salt Lake City”
Chowhound (former web site)
City-Data “What/Where to Eat on Utah Road Trip”
Condé Nast Traveler “50 States, 50 Cuisines: The Food Worth Traveling For in Every State”
Condé Nast Traveler, “50 States, 50 Dishes: America’s Favorite Foods and Where to Get Them”
Gil’s Thrilling (And Filling) Blog
Google Maps
Roadfood “The One Must-Eat Food in Each State, and Where To Get It”
Taste of Home “The Best Fried Chicken in Every State”
Urbanspoon.com (former web site which I used for preliminary research)