Koyoté
Burgers at an Old West saloon, fried chicken from “Iron Chef” champ Viet Pham, Sunday dinners at a beloved Italian restaurant, creamy sesame vegetarian ramen at a casual Japanese shokudo, and more
Salt Lake City’s food scene has transformed dramatically over the past decade, evolving from a landscape of Old West-style steakhouses to a vibrant culinary destination that embraces local ingredients and diverse global influences. While Utah’s unique alcohol laws still shape its dining culture, the city has become a culinary magnet, driven by an influx of tech companies, remote workers, and new residents drawn by its natural beauty and quality of life. Nicknamed “Silicon Slopes” for its booming tech industry, Salt Lake City now attracts chefs and restaurateurs from across the country who bring innovative ideas and bold flavors to the high-altitude desert.
Today, the city’s dining options are as eclectic as its new residents, with creative chefs reimagining Rocky Mountain cuisine and infusing it with international flair. At Table X, Nick Fahs and Michael Blocher craft inventive New American fare in a rustic, converted factory, while Iron Chef America champion Viet Pham has transformed fast-casual dining with his crave-worthy fried chicken at Pretty Bird. Staples like Red Iguana, a family-owned Mexican restaurant famous for its rich moles since 1985, also remain beloved, showcasing Salt Lake’s culinary roots. Whether you’re craving a classic smash burger, artisanal ramen, or a perfect pastrami on rye, Salt Lake City has emerged as an exciting destination with something for every palate.
Sarah Entwistle is a chef and recipe developer who has worked in restaurants, test kitchens, and as a private chef. After a five-year stint in Utah, she moved back to the East Coast and currently lives in Manhattan, where she runs a monthly supper club out of her apartment.
