CITY WEEKLY CITY GUIDE 2024

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CITY WEEKLY’S 20TH ANNUAL GUIDE

CITY ’24 GUIDE

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Pete Saltas

Jerre Wroble Kass Wood

Emilee Atkinson, Carolyn Campbell, Aimee L. Cook, Thomas Crone, Babs De Lay, Cole Fullmer, Lara Jones, Erin Moore, Cat Palmer, Scott Renshaw, Arica Roberts, Sheral Schowe, Alex Springer, Benjamin Wood, Kass Wood, Bryan Young, Christa Zaro

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SLICK ROCK BEER FESTIVAL

LETTER

WELL-SEASONED

Back in 1984, I found myself graduating from high school and trying to break into the SLC scene. I quickly discovered the Private Eye, an alt-weekly newspaper that covered the downtown private club scene (you can Google this draconian period of Utah liquor law to learn how challenging it was). And if you do the math, you know I couldn’t legally get into a bar back then. But I tried. And tried. And sometimes succeeded. If not for the Private Eye, I wouldn’t have known where to even make the attempt. Remember, this was the dark ages—no internet, no social media, no foodie scene (’cept for the Gabby Gourmet)—so finding the pipeline to where stuff was happening was flyer to ’zine to bathroom stall. What I was looking for was an insider’s guide to where “it” was happening. Thanks to Private Eye, my touchstones then were places like The Painted Word, Bandaloops, the Zephyr and the music community at Positively Fourth Street and KRCL 90.9 FM. Today, only two of those exist. Three, if you count the Private Eye, which goes by the name of City Weekly (since 1997).

Now comes CW’s 20th annual City Guide, the user’s manual to what’s happening now, downtown and across the Wasatch Front. And this year, you’ll note, we’re all about the sodium chloride (aka salt). “Salt” is, of course, our city’s namesake so, here, you’ll find well-seasoned stories, perhaps more so than your average tourist rag. Adding salt brings out the flavor of a dish, but don’t get carried away with the shaker. After 20 years, we hope to be hitting it “just right.” Online and IRL, this is the annual guide to all there is to do, to see (or be seen!), to eat and drink—and more.

Maybe you’re an old-timer looking for classic eateries like the Red Iguana, or you are new to town and want to find the latest trendy restaurant. Or you’re looking for a great hike, whether that means a “bar crawl,” an adventure to the Spiral Jetty or a hike along the many trails on the front and back of the Wasatch and Oquirrh mountains. Flip through the pages and plunk down a finger down to choose your own adventure, all the while knowing that the writers and researchers of this guide are part of a long tradition of covering and cheerleading all things “SL,UT.”

Keep this guide nearby all year, and when you need inspiration for living and loving this salty place, turn to it, trust it and use it with the confidence that you will have a damned good time. And if you need a soundtrack that’s stood the test of time like City Weekly has, go left of the dial to find my sonic home, 90.9 FM KRCL, aka Listeners’ Community Radio of Utah. Thanks, City Weekly, for always being there.

Long-time reader, first-time City Guide writer, Lara Jones Host of RadioACTive on KRCL 90.9 FM City Weekly’s Best Radio Reporter 2023

GETTING AROUND

SMOOTH SAILING

The era of free parking in Salt Lake City is over—embrace it.

BY BENJAMIN WOOD

There are many Olympic cities around the world, but only 10 that have hosted the games more than once. Salt Lake City is all but certain to join that list in 2034, inching the Wasatch Front metro area ever closer to a global big-boys’ table alongside heavy-hitters like Paris, Los Angeles, London and Tokyo.

A great city is a great thing, and Salt Lakers have much to look forward to as we level up throughout the next decade. But with growth comes growing pains and perhaps none will be felt as keenly as traffic congestion, particularly for those who cling to suburban-style, door-todoor driving.

Travel to, in and around Salt Lake City need not be a hair-pulling affair, even when we welcome the world to our big-little town. By embracing the following rules of the road, you’ll be ready to hit the streets today, tomorrow and for years to come.

Rule No. 1: Park in a garage

Ideally, street parking in a city should be relatively expensive, say $5 per hour, while garage parking should be relatively cheap, say $2 to $3 per hour. Salt Lake City tends to get this backward, and that’s a big part of why it feels like there’s insufficient parking even though nearly one-third of downtown’s total footprint is buried under asphalt.

A moving car is relatively productive—delivering workers to jobs, customers to retailers, children to schools, etc.—but a parked car is wasted space. Garages help by consolidating the dead land consumed by inactive vehicles into a single, multi-level structure, making it more effective for storage than the curb zones that should be turning over fairly frequently,

adding buzz and vibrancy to the street.

When you drive into downtown, spare yourself the headache and just accept that you’ll be parking in a garage (and spending a few bucks to do so), then walking a short distance to your final location. You’ll find that eliminating the guesswork of trying to score a space on the street pays dividends to your mental health compared to your friends who arrive late after spending 30 minutes circling block after block, rage boiling over.

Rule No. 2: Take the train to events and the airport

If you’re headed to a game at the Delta Center or University of Utah, or to a convention at the Salt Palace, or to a concert at Gallivan Plaza, or to so many other, major, road-clogging events, don’t even bother driving, at least not all the way into town.

With the significant caveat that Trax and FrontRunner don’t run as late or as often as they should (and FrontRunner doesn’t run at all on Sundays), you’re often going to be better off riding the rails than driving your car, especially if your destination is within a half-mile of a train station. And this is a rule that will only get stronger as the Olympics approaches, with the opening of new train stations and higher service frequencies.

Don’t have a train near you? First, call your state Senator and complain, then use a car to get to the nearest station—many of which include free park-and-ride lots—or to a station outside the downtown core, like in Central 9th, Fairpark, Ballpark or even South Salt Lake. It’s much easier to find a parking spot a little further away and the extra step of catching a train can save you time and stress in the long run.

Flying in and out of Salt Lake? Long-term parking is a bad deal considering that the Trax Green Line drops you off right at the airport terminal. And depending on when you arrive/depart (there’s no overnight train service … yet), the Green Line will get you downtown in a snap and a connection with FrontRunner at North Temple Station gets you as far north as Ogden and as far south as Provo before you need to call an Uber.

Rule No. 3: Walk or bike your shortest trips

When your trip is less than 1 mile, consider walking. When your trip is less than 3 miles, con-

sider cycling. On an ebike, most anything under 5 miles can be done on two wheels, and the GreenBike rental fleet increasingly offers electrified models.

Just as important, if there are shops, restaurants and parks closer to home than the ones you typically patronize, consider adjusting those routines to invest more time and money into your neighborhood’s amenities.

The city hasn’t made this easy—downzoning in the ’80s and ’90s and decades of incessant highway widening all but wiped out the very concept of a corner store. But bit by bit, we’re turning back the clock on those mistakes with mixed-use zoning, multi-use trails, neighborhood byways with traffic calming interventions and transit-oriented neighborhood hubs. To see where this is working, go check out neighborhoods like 9th & 9th, Central 9th, 15th & 15th, Rose Park, Marmalade and the Avenues. To see where this is not working, go check out “downtown” Sugar House.

Bonus Tip: Ditch the freeway

Not a rule—and your mileage may vary—but consider avoiding the interstate for trips within and even between cities. My son splits his time between Murray and the west side of Salt Lake City. After a few rounds of the Interstate 15 gauntlet, I decided to stick to Redwood Road, and my trips and my driving mood both improved. Now, I pretty much use the freeway only when I’m crossing the county line.

Freeways are funny things: They work great until something goes wrong … and then they barely work at all. Today’s 15-minute trip could take an hour tomorrow, and you often won’t know until you’re stuck in gridlock, inching toward the next possible exit.

By comparison, the stop-and-go of a surface highway might take a little longer on average, but with more reliable consistency and with more ability to divert to other streets if a collision shuts traffic down. Once you adjust, you may realize that a leisurely drive suits you just fine.

Mapping apps push us toward the fastest possible routes but for most trips, the difference is a matter of minutes, what we might call the margin of error. Sometimes the “cost” of extra time is worth it when those minutes are of a higher quality. �

Salt Lake City ‘s light rail (Trax) and bike share (GreenBike) make it easy to navigate downtown.

VIBE CHECK

Utah’s religious shifts and political winds will (slowly) change the face of Utah.

BY BENJAMIN WOOD

Utah is a small state, filled with members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (they’re not called Mormons these days), that’s dominated by conservative politics and is known for its rural landscapes.

At the same time, Utah is a rapidly growing state whose predominant faith is hemorrhaging congregants, whose generally apathetic and centrist electorate is often at odds with the far-right idealogues who hold power and whose population is tightly concentrated in urban and suburban areas along the Wasatch Front.

If those contradictions seem irreconcilable, you might be new here. Allow me to (attempt to) explain:

A Mile Wide and an Inch Deep

Today, Utah Republicans hold every statewide political office, supermajorities in both the state House and Senate and the entirety of Utah’s federal delegation. But the GOP’s red wall may not be quite as sturdy as it appears—having been erected in the late ’80s/early ’90s and propped up over four decades through increasingly flagrant gerrymandering.

If Utah’s government reflected the raw math of how Utahns vote, the state’s woefully disorganized Democrats could expect to hold at least one of four congressional seats and enough state legislative seats to threaten the Republicans’ veto-proof chambers. But since the government is determined through voting districts, Utah’s left-leaning and city-based voters are “cracked” between all four congresspersons and “packed” into as few state-level seats as possible.

This dynamic was perhaps most visible in 2018, when three separate ballot initiatives won a statewide majority but were subsequently rejected by lawmakers, most of whom pointed to the initiatives’ failure among their constituents as justification.

Without meaningful competition, Utah Republicans have taken to fighting among themselves. A longtime civil war over the party’s method for nominating candidates has only intensified in the era of Donald Trump, whose MAGA brand of recklessness and hostile isolationism grates against the Reagan-era “city on a hill” nostalgia that built the state’s conservative apparatus.

Trump won Utah in 2016 and 2020, but with the worst voter shares of any Republican nomi-

nee in modern memory. And while 2024 could see another win for Trump in the Beehive State, his controversial candidacy does little to reverse the regional trends that have turned Colorado and New Mexico blue and turned Arizona purple. What’s more, the 2030 census will see Utah knocking on the door of earning a fifth congressional seat, which could stretch local Republican gerrymandering to the breaking point.

When the Saints Go Marching

Settlers affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints arrived in the Salt Lake Valley in 1847, headquartered their faith around what is now Temple Square and, for more than a century, enjoyed virtually unchallenged dominance of the state of Utah’s economy, culture and politics.

But the 21st century has seen a shift in trajectory. The 2002 Olympic Winter Games generated a tidal wave of outside attention, interest and scrutiny (as the 2034 Olympics are likely to do again) and younger generations of Utahns—like their counterparts elsewhere—are abandoning organized religion in droves. LDS leaders keep their cards close to the vest, but independent research released in December suggested that practicing Mormons now make up less than half of the statewide population, with even lower numbers in Salt Lake County and Salt Lake City.

None of this is to imply that Utah isn’t still a Latter-day Saint stronghold. But the old divide between Mormons and “non-Mormons” is increasingly being disrupted by a middle cohort that is distinctly “ex-Mormon.” If that trend continues, we should expect to see a greater emphasis on the things that all Utahns agree on (good schools, outdoor recreation and access to nature, saving the Great Salt Lake, sports and

Upgrades

Begun in 2019, the renovations on the Latter-day Saints’ Salt Lake Temple are expected to continue through 2026.

entertainment, etc.) and less effort by the political majority to choke diversity out of existence (i.e, burdensome liquor and hospitality regulation, anti-abortion absolutism, book banning, LGBTQ discrimination, guns, etc.)

The rightward elements of the state sense this shift coming and have compensated by doubling down on their worst impulses, fasttracking anti-transgender and anti-diversity laws in the opening days of the 2024 legislative session while otherwise looking to raise the hurdles for citizen initiatives, roll back mailin and ranked-choice voting and divert public education dollars to families enrolled in private schools. That crowd will do everything it can to cling to power, but there’s reason to believe a tectonic shift in Utah’s socio-political demographics is on the horizon.

The Call of the Wild

No matter your personal politics or religion, there’s one thing everyone in Utah can agree on: the greatest snow on earth and the incredible geology beneath it. With world-class ski resorts, the “Mighty 5” national parks, state and regional parks and countless miles of trails through the center of town or deep into the backcountry, anyone looking for adventure, adrenaline or just a peaceful break under clear blue skies can find what they’re looking for.

Go for a bike ride on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, carve through a wake at Jordanelle Reservoir or paddle your way across Causey Reservoir. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can do all three in one day!

And remember to refuel at one of our great local eateries. If you need help finding a delicious meal or a frosty beer, read on—or check out the dining listings at cityweekly.net. �

WHY YA GOTTA BE

So Salty?

In a fight for its life, Utah’s inland sea inspires a new generation of lake protectors.

BY CHRISTA ZARO

As namesake to Utah’s capital city, the Great Salt Lake lies west of communities from Salt Lake north to Ogden, all the way to Tremonton. Whether you’re seeing the lake from a hilltop home, office building or rooftop bar, it often shows up as a shimmering patch of blue on the western horizon. And no matter your vantage point, you just can’t help but admire its austere beauty.

As the last remnant of Lake Bonneville (which, back in the Ice Age, covered most of Utah), the Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. Fed with freshwater from the Jordan, Weber and Bear rivers, GSL is a terminal lake (meaning it has no outlet to the ocean). As such, GSL accumulates tons of minerals each year, which give the lake its high salinity (2 to 9 times saltier—depending on location—than seawater) and density. This density accounts for why swimmers often feel buoyant in the water.

The Lake Giveth

For more than a century, humans have divided the lake with railroad trestles, dikes and a causeway. Each lake fragment has its own salinity and color. Measuring 75 miles long and 35 miles wide, GSL is a vast, shallow basin, known for its “lake stink.” You’ll find no fish in this extra salty lake environment, but it’s the perfect home for brine shrimp, brine fly larvae and algae. The commercial harvest of brine shrimp represents an $80 million dollar-per-year industry, with the lake’s shrimp sold worldwide as fish and prawn food.

The shrimp and the lake’s billions of brine flies serve as tasty snacks for the more than 10 million migratory birds (more than 250 species) that touch down on the shores of the lake annually. Millions of native birds, shorebirds and waterfowl including ducks, geese, gulls, pelicans and eagles call the marshes and surrounding wetlands home.

The GSL also is a rich source of salt, magnesium, lithium and other minerals for companies ranging from Morton Salt to U.S. Magnesium. GSL mineral extractions contribute $1.3 billion a year to Utah’s economy, according to a 2019 report prepared for the Great Salt Lake Advisory Council, but the industries are also criticized for high water usage and pollution.

Those who come to Utah for winter recreation can also thank the GSL for enhancing the abundant snowfall they so enjoy. Skiers and boarders rejoice when the “lake effect” phenomenon kicks in as a cold storm front crosses over the warmer shallow GSL waters to produce unparalleled amounts of light fluffy powder in our mountains, dubbed “The Greatest Snow on Earth.”

Antelope Island rises out of the Great Salt Lake.

A herd of up to 700 American bison roam freely on Antelope Island.

Robert Smithson’s Spiral Jetty

Where’d All the Water Go?

Lately, however, the GSL has made national and international news out of concern for its receding waters.

Water that normally fills the lake has been increasingly diverted for agricultural, industrial and residential usage. Combine that with the effects of drought and climate change, and we’ve seen the lake recede by two thirds (73%). In the fall of 2022, the GSL hit a record low water level, and scientists warned of the lake’s extinction within five years. Not only that, but as shorelines recede, the GSL’s lakebed (where all the lake’s toxins have settled) is now exposed. Winds blow toxic dust from the lakebed into the air, creating a public health concern for residents living along the Wasatch Front.

Simply put, the lake needs more water. While Mother Nature helped out with a bountiful snowpack the past two winters, it isn’t near enough to replenish the basin.

Be the Change

What’s next: Prayers alone won’t save the Great Salt Lake. Utah environmental author Terry Tempest Williams and others have advocated giving the GSL legal “personhood” to recognize its inherent right to exist and flourish and to potentially allocate water rights to the lake. The Utah Legislature and governor nipped that idea in the bud but insist they are still dedicated to saving the GSL. To that end, they’ve appointed a GSL commissioner, Brian Steed, to oversee statewide preservation efforts.

Since 1994, the nonprofit Friends of the Great Salt Lake has kept watch over the Great Salt Lake ecosystem and helped increase public awareness through education, research, advocacy and the arts. Artists and activists from Save Our Great Salt Lake and the River Writing Collective heard the call and began holding vigil at the Capitol during the legislative session dressed in colorful bird and brine shrimp costumes. The groups also host consciousness-raising events throughout the year. Grow the Flow is also part of the effort, focused on restoring the lake through policy, innovation and citizen involvement.

A cohort of 19 local news, education and civic organizations calling themselves the Great Salt Lake Collaborative have banded together to inform and engage the public about working toward solutions to rescue the lake before it’s too late.

Get Your Feet Wet

Yes, the lake may be struggling, but it is far from dead. See it now, spend time at Great Salt Lake state parks and see why the lake inspires so much love and devotion. Enjoy wildlife viewing, birdwatching, hiking, full moon bike rides, camping, picnicking, kayaking, swimming and more at:

Antelope Island State Park and Visitor Center: 33 miles north of Salt Lake City. Access the park via a 7.2-mile causeway located 7 miles west of Interstate 15, exit 332, near Layton

Great Salt Lake State Park and Marina: 17 miles west of Salt Lake City on I-80, exit 104 (Saltair Drive). Open year round.

Willard Bay State Park marinas: Willard Bay is a freshwater reservoir 12 miles northwest of Ogden, on the flood plains of the Great Salt Lake. The north marina and campgrounds are located west of I-15, exit 357. The south marina and campgrounds are a little farther west of I-15, exit 351.

Bonneville Salt Flats

From Salt Lake City, drive 1½ hours west on Interstate 80 to discover a vast expanse of flat salt-encrusted earth used for land speed racing (Speedweek is usually held in early August). Since 1914, this unique landscape has brought land speed racers from around the world to test themselves and their vehicles on “fastest speedway on earth.” The salt flats are also the place for archery competitions, running races, photography, videography and research projects.

At 12 miles long and 5 miles wide, the flats appear to be covered in snow, but it’s actually a crust of salt that’s 5 feet thick in some places. Originally 96,000 acres, the salt flats themselves have been reduced by climate change and mineral extraction to 30,000 acres and a quarter-inch thickness in some spots.

The shrinking Great Salt Lake: Aerial photos taken in 1986, left, and in 2021, right

Environmental Art

Spiral Jetty: This spectacular earth art sculpture on the northeastern shore of the GSL is a two-hour drive from downtown Salt Lake. In 1970, artist Robert Smithson trucked in more than 6,000 tons of black basalt rock to form a counterclockwise coil jetty that extends from the shore into the water. The jetty was submerged for decades but now the rocks are fully visible and walkable.

Sun Tunnels: This example of environmental art is from Robert Smithson’s widow, artist Nancy Holt. Located three hours northwest of Salt Lake in a ghost town called Lucin, here you’ll see four concrete tunnels 18 feet long and 9 feet in diameter arranged in an X-pattern and aligned to view the sunrise and sunset on the summer and winter solstices.

Metaphor: The Tree of Utah: This sculpture stands at the edge of Interstate 80 about 25 miles east of Wendover on the Bonneville Salt Flats. Constructed in the mid-1980s by Swedish artist Karl Momen, the work consists of a large concrete trunk with six orbs at the top meant to mimic branches, covered in more than 2,000 glossy ceramic tiles and minerals. On the ground next to the trunk are purposely broken pieces of an orb that appears to have fallen and cracked open, seeming to impart that nature is resilient even in the harsh conditions of the barren salt flats. �

When It Rains, It Pours

Table salt is ubiquitous, but you might think twice when you know that the world’s best-known flavor enhancer comes from the Great Salt Lake, specifically the Grantsville area.

Since 1918, Morton Salt Co. has been mining and harvesting table salt, water softening and deicing salt.

Salt production starts in March and harvests in November. Through solar evaporation during the warmer months, the sun evaporates water from precipitation in salt ponds leaving behind the ”white gold” that we can’t live without.

HIGH ROADS TO ADVENTURE

When the heat is on in Salt Lake City, nearby mountains offer a cool reprieve.

BY AIMEE L. COOK

Utah’s ski resorts aren’t only about their legendary powder snow. In the summer, they become havens for hikers, bikers and picnickers. Nature lovers can amble through fields of gorgeous wildflowers, while concertgoers can sip a stein of beer and relax on a mountain slope listening to a great band. Or just play with gravity as it carries you through the forest on an alpine coaster or zipline. Mountain resorts were made for summer escapades.

Snowbird: An Adrenaline Playground

Take in the 360-degree views across valleys and peaks from Snowbird’s newly constructed tram rooftop balconies, the only ones of their kind in the United States. Thrill-seekers can test their courage on the Mountain Coaster, zipping through twists and turns amid the alpine splendor. “Sled” down the slopes on the Alpine Slide, or glide among the treetops on the ZipWhipper. Two iconic activities not to be missed are the scenic tram rides and Oktoberfest. For those with littles, check out the Forever Young Boundless Playground; it is free and accessible to kids of all abilities. 9385 S. Snowbird Center Drive, Snowbird, snowbird.com/summer-activities

Snowbasin: Where Trails Meet Tunes

A scenic ride on Needles Gondola opens to meandering trails and panoramic views of the Wasatch Range for lift-served hiking and biking. You’ll have a scenic 26-mile network of more than 20 trails to explore on foot or by bike. Spend some time mastering the 18-hole mini golf course and plan ahead for the SnowWiesen Oktoberfest. The resort is also a hotspot (er, cool spot?) for music lovers, with the Snowbasin Blues, Brews & BBQ concert series that fills the valley with soulful tunes. 3925 E. Snowbasin Road, Huntsville, 801-620-1100, snowbasin.com

Solitude: A Local Favorite

Shred epic trails in the mountain bike park, designed by Gravity Logic, with options for every skill level from beginner cruisers to gravity-defying pros. Laceup your boots to hike alpine meadows and forests. Put your aim to the test on the challenging disc golf course; starting at 9,000 feet, the 18-basket course is perfect for a friendly-family competition or a solo Zen session. Bring the kiddos to Adventure Park, featuring zip lines, climbing walls and a bungee trampoline. Unwind after a day of adventure with weekly live music, free at Solitude Village. 12000 Big Cottonwood Canyon, Solitude, 801-536-5786, solitudemountain.com/discover-solitude/summer

Deer Valley: Elegance in the Wild

Deer Valley retains its elegant charm in the summer, with lift-served mountain biking and guided historical hikes that reveal the area’s mining past. Stand-up paddleboard yoga is offered on the serene Snow Park pond, and the renowned Deer Valley Music Festival (deervalleymusicfestival.org) and Deer Valley Concert Series provide both classical and pop performances at the Snow Park Outdoor Amphitheater. Enjoy a pre-concert entrée from the seasonal menus at the Brass Tag and the Royal Street Café. For a more laid-back meal, visit the Deer Valley Grocery Café. The Deer Valley Mountain Beer Festival is a must for beer enthusiasts, as is the Hops on the Hill series (7700 Stein Way, Park City, 435-6456455, steinlodge.com/hops-on-the-hill) on the deck of the Stein Eriksen Lodge. 2250 Deer Valley Drive South, Park City, 435-649-1000, deervalley.com/discover-deer-valley/summer

Park City Mountain: Events for Every Passion

In summer, cyclists love coming to Park City Mountain for its more than 150 miles of winding paths, some of which are lift-served. Bike rentals are also available. Discover the thrill of the 3,000-foot downhill ride on the Alpine slide or take a seat on the two-person

Flying Eagle zip line and enjoy views of the town below. Scenic lift rides and disc golf are also family favorites in the summer, as are the farmers’ markets on Wednesdays. Thursday and Saturday nights bring musical acts for the free summer concert series in Canyons Village. Two locations: Park City Village and Canyons Village, 435-649-8111, parkcitymountain.com/explore-the-resort/ activities/summer-activities

Sundance: Easy Rider

In summer, trade your skis for fly rods and cast a line in the Provo River, teeming with trout and rustic scenery. Explore the Wasatch Range on foot, choosing from 20 miles of diverse hiking trails. Bike riders enjoy more than 25 miles of lift-serviced, single-track mountain biking trails that offer an exhilarating descent. Sundance’s ZipTour, with more than 2,100 feet of vertical drop, is among the nation’s highest. Saddle up for a horseback ride led by experienced guides. Beyond outdoor adventure, Sundance transforms into a cultural hub in the summer. Enjoy theater performances in the intimate setting of the Sundance Summer Theatre or tap your foot to live outdoor concerts, ranging from jazz and bluegrass to folk and indie rock. 8841 N. Alpine Loop Road, Sundance, 801-225-4107, sundanceresort.com

COURTESY SNOWBIRD

Snowbird’s Alpine slide

Heber Valley: Adventure for Days

All aboard! Take a ride on the family-friendly Heber Valley Historic Railroad (450 S. 600 West, 435-654-5601, Heber City, hebertrain.com). The train departs several times a day, meandering 16 miles through farmlands, along the bucolic Provo River, and along mountain foothills to the west bank of Deer Creek Reservoir. Unleash your wild side and tackle the Provo River with your raft, kayak, tube and stand-up paddleboard. Or else join the ranks of elite anglers in the pursuit of Utah trout in any number of creeks in the area. Book a guide at a company like Fish Heads Fly Shop (32 S. Main, Heber City, 435-657-2010, fishheadsflyshop.com) to get you to the most bountiful fishing holes. Venture into Midway (aka “Little Switzerland”) to discover the geothermal hot springs of the Utah Crater at Homestead Farm (700 N. Homestead Drive, Midway, 435-657-3840, utahcrater.com). There, you can swim, snorkel, take a paddle board yoga class or just enjoy a nice soak. Cheese lovers should be sure to stop in at Heber Valley Artisan Cheese (920 River Road, Midway, 435-654-0291, hebervalleyartisancheese.com), home of farm-made cheese. It is as good as it sounds. gohebervalley.com

Mystic Hot Springs: Soak Off the Dust

Just 150 miles south of Salt Lake City, in Monroe, you’ll find a nostalgic escape radiating with hippie spirit. At Mystic Hot Springs, vintage cast iron bathtubs and a concrete pool offer relaxation and rural views from the hillside overlooking the valley. With water rich in calcium carbonate, you’ll enjoy an odorless and rejuvenating soak. Summer evenings, you might catch a concert under the stars or a meteor shower. Afterward, indulge in a trance-inducing massage. If you decide to stay overnight, you can cozy up in one of their pioneer cabins or a converted school bus. 475 E. 100 North, Monroe, mystichotsprings.com �

Blue Skies!

Go ahead and jump! Why? I don’t know why—but those who do say things like, “I wish I’d done this sooner” and want to do it again. The skilled instructors at Skydive Utah (4647 N. Airport Road, Erda, 435-833-9999, skydiveutah.com) and Skydive the Wasatch (2001 N. Airport Road, Nephi, 385-321-0284, skydivethewasatch.com) will make it happen—safely! If that’s too much air, try iFly (2261 Kiesel Ave., Ogden, 801-528-5348, iflyutah. com), an indoor flying experience simulating a skydive free fall using a wind-tunnel technology. Thrilling!

—By Kass Wood

PEAK EXPERIENCES

There’s no shortage of adventure in this pretty great state.

BY KASS WOOD & JERRE WROBLE

Parks? Utah has the Mighty 5 national parks along with 46 state parks. So, all the camping, hiking, bouldering, cycling, off-roading and star-gazing come naturally to those who call Utah home. But parks are only the start of Utah’s thrills and chills. Here’s a short list of big and small quests in and around Salt Lake Valley.

Outdoor Adventure

CLIMB EVERY MOUNTAIN

Go above, and beyond! For the active appreciators of nature, mountain trails in Utah are unsurpassed. Those with strong lungs and legs should add these ascents to their bucket list: Pheifferhorn (aka “Little Matterhorn” in Little Cottonwood Canyon), Lone Peak (above Draper, access via the Peak View Trailhead then on to Jacob’s Ladder Trail), Kings Peak (Utah’s highest point at 13,528 feet, located north of Duchesne, accessed via Henry’s Fork Trailhead near Evanston, Wyoming), the American Fork Twin Peaks (the highest peak in Salt Lake County accessed by two trails out of Snowbird resort in Little Cottonwood Canyon) or Mount Timpanogos (accessed via Timpooneke Trail in American Fork Canyon, at the Timpooneke Campground, along the Alpine Loop Road) just to name a few.

Steep terrain and rugged trails will reward you with exquisite vistas. Read up on each trail before you go (bring a map!), come prepared and keep some ibuprofen on hand.

Moderate hikers may choose lake hikes such as Lake Catherine (via Brighton Lakes Trail in Big Cottonwood Canyon), Dog Lake (on the ridge between Big Cottonwood Canyon via Mill D North Fork Trail and Millcreek Canyon via the Big Water Trailhead), Willow Lake (trailhead at milepost 13.5 up Big Cottonwood Canyon), Bloods Lake (trailhead on Guardsman Pass Road via Big Cottonwood Canyon), Lake Solitude (access via Silver Lake trail near Brighton Resort in Big Cottonwood Canyon) and yes, even the Great Salt Lake (accessible via interstates 15 or 80). Pack some cheese, crackers, fruit and wine. There are few better meals than those shared lakeside after a strenuous hike where the tableside chatter is a mountain bluebird, chipmunks and the snap of a twig announcing a moose getting a drink.

North Salt Lake surprises with a plethora of paths to be explored. Dense alpine forests are exchanged for scrub oak and aspens, without sacrificing beauty. Big Rock in Bountiful’s Mueller Park is an easy, well-marked trail with only 1,000 elevation gain, Adams Canyon near Layton takes you through a mountain forest to a waterfall and Deuel Creek Trail near Centerville is a

magical, maybe even enchanted, hike with some rock scrambling. It pays off with a rope swing that turns you into a 12-year-old.

GOLFING

Fore! Or more! Actually, Salt Lake County can claim 32 golf courses (29 public, 3 private), all within a 15-mile radius. Many are highly rated, well-maintained and affordable. To loosen up your swing, try these:

Mountain Dell (Interstate 80 Exit 134, Parleys Canyon, 801-582-3812, slc-golf.com) is known for scenic lakes, mountains and frequent sighting of moose, deer and varmints. Golf carts are recommended due to the elevation.

Murray Parkway (6345 Murray Parkway Ave., Murray, 801-262-4653, parkwaygolf.org) is a relatively flat, easy-to-walk course with little water (appreciated by non-pros) yet still challenging. Long par 5s and 3s make it a fun course.

Old Mill Golf Course (6080 S. Wasatch Blvd., SLC, 385-468-1440, slco.org), is one of the newest courses in Salt Lake. Golfers say it provides a challenge along with stunning views, fun riskreward holes and elevated tee boxes.

Golfers know Bonneville Golf Course (954 Connor St., SLC, 801-583-9513, slc-golf.com.) as one of the most beloved courses in Utah. Bonneville’s original nine holes opened 100 years ago. This mature course on SLC’s East Bench is renowned for its classic layout. Seasoned golfers enjoy its difficult tight and long holes.

Stonebridge Golf Club (4415 Links Drive, West Valley City, 801-957-9000, golfstonebridgeutah.com) is a unique 27-hole course, divided into three nines. As one of the most waterladen and longest courses in the state, it offers teeing areas for all abilities. This gem’s lovely landscaping of native plants and grasses add to the experience.

Indoor Adult Fun

AXE THERAPY

Got an axe to grind? Just throw one instead. Get a group together and compete. In the Salt Lake Valley, try Social Axe Throwing (1154 S. 300 West, SLC, 801-486-2937, socialaxethrowing. com), Rocky Mountain Axe Throwing (8496 S. Harrison St., No. 115, Midvale, 801-890-7855,

rockymountainaxethrowing.com) and Axe and Smash (10344 S. Redwood Road, South Jordan, 801-878-4780, axensmash.com), provide food and fun, and not a bad way to relieve any stress you may be feeling in an election year.

BE DISTILLED, MY HEART

Fun fact: There are around 20 distillers of craft spirits in Utah (with half of them in the Salt Lake Valley). More surprising is that they’ve all arrived on the scene since 2006, when Park City’s High West Distillery (highwest.com) became the first small-batch operation in Utah since 1870! If you love distilled spirits, a distillery tour should be on your “good times” itinerary. See how spirits are made and taste the results (these educational tours let you sample 2.5 combined ounces on-site for a small fee). Visit abs.utah. gov/licenses-permits/license-information for a complete list of current distillers. But to get you started, here are a few to try:

Sugar House Distillery (2212 S. West Temple, Ste. 4, SLC, 801-726-0403, sugarhousedistillery. net) rightfully boasts its culture of small-batch, handcrafted spirits. Your tastings can include bourbon, rye, rum, and vodka distilled there.

Holystone Distillery (207 W. 4860 South, SLC 385-300-9881, holystonedistilling.com) is veteran-owned serving up Absinthe Verte, Navy Strength Gin, and Cerulea Gin/Vodka—bottled by hand in gorgeous bottles.

Spirits of the Wasatch Distillery (3697 W. 1987 South, Bldg. 5, SLC, 855-927-2824, wasatch.co), formerly Hammer Spring Distillers, know how to innovate and blend local flavors to create spirits such as High Desert Gin, Summit Bourbon, Perky Cowgirl Coffee Liqueur and Hidden Vodka.

Waterpocket Distillery (2084 W. 2200 South, SLC, 801-382-9921, waterpocket.co) where their motto is “Open Wild,” a hat tip to the wild and outrageous adventures of the creators. With spirits named Toadstool Box-Death Hollow Amaro, Temple of the Moon Gin, Snow Angel Kümmel and their Long Lost collection, this distillery proves to be a liquid adventure.

Happy tourists often rave about Utah distillery tours, because they’d thought of the state as “dry.” It’s satisfying to “unmanage” their expectations—and in a good way. �

Mountain Dell Golf Course in

JUST KIDDING AROUND

Family friendly outings for your kid and

those who still want to be one.

BY KASS WOOD & JERRE WROBLE

There really is something to the notion of “quality time.” And when you spend the time doing something that makes your kiddo happy, you usually end up smiling, too. If you need ideas for places to spend quality time with the littles, here are a few that come to mind:

Parks and Gardens

Liberty Park (600 E. 900 South, SLC, slc.gov/ parks/park-division/liberty-park) is Salt Lake’s answer to “Central Park” with 110 acres of shade trees, flowers, lakes, playgrounds, rides, paddleboats, the historic Chase Museum and Tracy Aviary (one of two free standing aviaries in the nation). Established in 1920, it’s the city’s oldest public park.

Located on 100 acres in the foothills by the U of U campus, since 1985, Red Butte Garden (300 Wakara Way, SLC, 801-585-0556, redbuttegarden.org) has bloomed into one of the largest botanical gardens in the Intermountain West. Kids enjoy traveling along paved trails through the themed gardens year-round, but especially in springtime to see 590,000 springtime blooming bulbs and in the fall for the monthlong BOOtanical programs.

Gilgal Sculpture Garden (749 E. 500 South, SLC, gilgalgarden.org) Tucked in the middle of the block behind houses and businesses, this unique “secret garden” was created by brick mason Thomas Battersby Child Jr. starting in 1945 in what was then his backyard. It features 12 sculptures and over 70 engraved stones that reference biblical verses and Child’s LDS faith. You’ll see a sphinx with the face of LDS church founder Joseph Smith and a depiction of the artist himself, made out of bricks.

Museums and Such

The beautiful Rio Tinto building houses The Natural History Museum of Utah (301 Wakara Way, SLC, 801-581-6927, nhmu.utah.edu) adjacent to Red Butte Garden, where kids get immersed in Utah’s natural history—including paleontology, geology, ecology and Indigenous cultures. With interactive exhibits, craft workshops and a Past Worlds gallery full of dinosaur fossils, the museum is a popular field trip destination for all age groups.

The Leonardo (209 E. 500 South, SLC, 801531-9800, theleonardo.org) offers immersive exhibits that combine science, engineering and technology with artistic expression, innovation and creativity. One such don’t-miss exhibit is Flight, which showcases the history of flight, from Leonardo da Vinci’s designs to modern aviation with realistic flight simulators and a fully

restored C-131 aircraft. Hard to imagine this fits into what was Salt Lake’s old library space! The Gateway is home to two other kid-friendly facilities: Clark Planetarium (110 S. 400 West, SLC, 385-468-7827, clarkplanetarium.org) hosts feature films and shows about the Earth and its place in the universe utilizing a full-dome theatre and IMAX theatre. There are also three floors of space and science exhibit space that you can explore for free. Then get lost for an hour or so at one of the best science gift stores in the area. Especially for toddlers and younger kids (up to 10 years old), Discovery Gateway (444 W. 100 South, SLC, 801-456-5437, discoverygateway. org) is a fun-filled children’s museum offering exhibits, activities and workshops with a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) focus to inspire young imaginations.

Salt Lake City Main Library

With its six-story, curving walkable wall, the downtown Main Library (210 E. 400 South, SLC, 801-524-8200, slcpl.org/main-library) is one of the most architecturally unique buildings in Utah. Among its many levels and interest areas, the Children’s Library is a light-filled, five-story atrium. Tucked under the reflecting pool of the plaza, Grandmother’s Attic is a cozy space for kids to curl up with a book. There’s also the Wild Woods for those with an adventurous imagination. The rooftop terrace (currently being renovated) is home to multiple beehives offering a

close-up view of honeybees, and the community garden on the north side of the building is a learning lab tended to by local residents who learn and share sustainable gardening practices.

—By Jerre Wroble

Amusement and Theme Parks

The fast and the furious meet family fun at Utah’s premier amusement park, Lagoon (375 N. Lagoon Drive, Farmington, 801-451-8000, lagoonpark.com). If controlled fear or an adrenaline rush is what you seek, get in line for Wicked, Colossus, The Spider, The Bat, Jet Star 2, Cannibal and their newest attraction, Primordial. Lagoon caters to thrill seekers and amusement for the kiddies. In the sizzle of summer, Lagoon-ABeach, with 6 acres of surging slides, waterfalls, twisting hydro tubes, fountains and swimming, is just the cool-down you’re looking for.

This is the Place Heritage Park (2601 E. Sunnyside Ave., SLC, 801-582-1847, thisistheplace.org).

In this authentically re-created Utah Pioneer Village, stroll through any of the 50 historic buildings and Native American Village. Ride the train and interact with the artisans in their shops and learn more about life in the early days of the European settlement of the West. Kids can pan for gold and, on hot summer days, head to the Irrigation Station splash park to cool down. Adults enjoy shopping at the nationally acclaimed Heritage Gift Shop.

—By Kass Wood

Lagoon offers family fun with a side of adrenaline.

Where the Wild (and Not So Wild) Things Are

Ready for a deep dive into an extraordinary day of fun? Loveland Living Planet Aquarium (12033 Lone Peak Pkwy., Draper, 801-355-3474, livingplanetaquarium.org) is home to more than 6,500 animals representing 500 species. In addition to the awe and splendor of the aquarium itself, book an animal encounter with a Gentoo penguin or a stingray, embark on the thrilling EECO Voyager VR experience, stroll through the Ocean Experience, Expedition Asia, Journey to South America, Deep Sea Lab to mention a few.

Lions and tigers and bears! Oh yes! Utah’s Hogle Zoo (2600 Sunnyside Ave. [840 South], SLC, 801-584-1700, hoglezoo.org) champions wildlife and it’s on full display here. Enjoy the African Savanna, the Great Apes, Asian Highlands, Red Panda exhibit, zebras, hippos, rhinos and even the wee ones like lizards, snakes and turtles. Visit the Discovery Theatre for an interactive program with zoo educators, or head over to the Conservation Carousel. Kids of any age can romp and cool down at the Lighthouse Point splash pad.

More than 300 birds from around the world call Tracy Aviary at Liberty Park (589 E. 1300 South, SLC, 801-596-8500, tracyaviary.org) home. Themed exhibits and botanical gardens are spread over 8 acres where you can experience bird shows, roaming animal encounters, bird talks, pelican feedings and more. Since many species have become extinct in the wild, sightings of them here will give your soul wings.

For a glimpse of rural life and agriculture, Wheeler Historic Farm (6351 S. 900 East, Murray, 385-468-1755, slco.org/wheeler-farm) is a 75-acre working farm that invites you to explore historic buildings, interact with farm animals, take a wagon ride, shop at a Sunday Farmers Market and enjoy picnics and nature walks. There’s also a popular children’s playground.

Bison Roundup: Head ’em up, move ’em out! Each fall, the 700 strong bison herd on Antelope Island is rounded up over several days by ranchers and cowhands on horseback. Visitors are invited to witness a true Western event and learn about its ecological importance. More info at stateparks.utah.gov/parks/antelope-island/events. �

—By Kass Wood

Owl pals at Tracy Aviary

LET YOUR GEEK FLAG FLY

Explore the many dimensions of Salt Lake’s nerd culture.

BY BRYAN YOUNG

Salt Lake City offers a robust geek and nerd scene that’s been going strong for years. It doesn’t really matter what sort of geek you are, there’s bound to be something for you in the Salt Lake Valley, and if not in the valley, it’s north or south along the Wasatch Front. There is almost no aspect of geek culture that doesn’t have some form of representation or a burgeoning sub-culture here.

Let’s look at the places where people gather and where you might find likeminded souls.

Conferences, Fairs and Conventions

Utah hosts a variety of conferences and conventions, all catering to different aspects of geekdom. For those hoping to see the more notable pop culture stars, the annual FanX (Salt Palace Convention Center, 100 S. West Temple, SLC, fanxsaltlake.com), scheduled Sept. 26-28, 2024, is one of the highlights of the year. They bring in everyone from TV stars of yesteryear to Captain America himself. The panels are always the best, as they bring in local experts (myself included) to talk about nerd topics and have spirited debates about topics like, who was right in the Civil War: Captain America or Tony Stark? Add in hundreds of artists, writers and vendors as well as thousands of attendees in costumes, and you have a hub of geek activity that cannot be denied.

If you want to get into more niche conferences, we have multiple flavors to choose from.

If you’re into anime, there’s no bigger festival than the annual Anime Banzai (Davis Conference Center, 1651 N. 700 West, Layton, animebanzai.org), coming Oct. 18-20, 2024. Run by a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing Japanese culture to the people of Utah, it brings in voice actors from your favorite animated shows, cosplayers and performers. February this year brought the Isekai Anime Con (Mountain America Expo Center, 9575 S. State, Sandy, isekaianimecon.com) to Salt Lake’s south valley, with three days of panels, guest appearances, games, events, dealers, screenings and more.

For fans of the Creative Anachronism world, there are two options for that sort of nerdery, one south of Salt Lake and the other to the north. The Utah Renaissance Faire is to the south, and for 2024, will be at Young Living Lavender Farm (3700 Old Highway 91, Mona, utahrenfaire.org), set for Aug. 23-24. Here, you watch the jousting of the Knights of Mayhem, the armored combat of the Salt Lake City Crusaders, the reenactments of the Vikings of Utah and the House of Tudor, plus hang out on the shire, flirt with fair

ies and decorate a real maypole.

Then, to the north, there’s the UtahRenFest (940 W. 17th St., Marriott-Slaterville City, utahrenfest.com), which in 2024, feature themed weekends on May 11-12 (Faerie), May 18-19 (Pirate) and May 25-27 (Vikings and Heroes). These events are perfect for dressing up in faerie, pirate or Ren garb and enjoying equestrian and jousting games, archery, vaulting, food, drink, “shoppes” and entertainment. If board gaming is your thing, there is always SaltCon (multiple locations, saltcon.com), the largest board-gaming convention in Utah that happens four times a year. The next two SaltCons (on June 7-9, 2024, and Aug. 30-Sept.1, 2024) take place at the Davis Conference Center in Layton.

For those geeks who want to create their own pop culture powerhouses while meeting writers and learning how to write, there are a few great conferences that invite exactly that sort of thing. The biggest might be Brandon Sanderson’s annual Dragonsteel event (Salt Palace Convention Center, 100 S. West Temple, SLC, dragonsteelbooks.com). Slated for Dec. 5-7, 2024, it’s dedicated to Sanderson’s work, as well as the wider world of sci-fi and fantasy. The other conference in this vein is the League of Utah Writers’ annual Quills Conference (Marriott University Park, 480 Wakara Way, SLC, leagueofutahwriters.com) scheduled for Aug. 8-11, 2024. (In full disclosure, I serve on the league’s board.) Past guests have included superstar geek writers like Terry Brooks, Mi-

chael A. Stackpole, E.K. Johnston and more. It’s a great place to talk about geek topics as well as the methods of creating geeky things.

The Best Shops

If you’re looking for great places to shop for comic books, Black Cat Comics (2261 S. Highland Drive, SLC, 801-461-4228, blackcat-comics.com) is a Sugar House mainstay. A little further south is Dr. Volt’s Comic Connection (2043 E. 3300 South, Millcreek, 801-485-6114, drvolts.com). Both of these shops have gone back and forth in winning City Weekly’s Best of Utah and are a great place to hit for Free Comic Book Day—traditionally the first Saturday in May. That’s a day where you show up and can get free comics—though it’s always proper etiquette to buy some, too.

For board games, Salt Lake City proper boasts two world-class gaming stores: Oasis Games (275 E. 400 South, SLC, 801-738-4413, oasisgamesslc. com) and Game Night Games (2148 S. 900 East, Ste. 2, SLC, 801-467-2400, gamenightgames.com). Both have ample play areas and offer a great selection of games to buy. They host regular tournaments and sell products for your various gaming needs.

For anime, the Super Anime Store (2274 E. 3300 South, SLC, 801-205-5070, superanimestore.com) features all kinds of imported items. Another great option for games, comics and anime is The Nerd Store (3601 S. 2700 West, Ste. G106, West Valley City, 801-964-4776, nerdstoreutah.com) located at the Valley Fair Mall (and they have a new store at the University Mall in Orem, as well). It’s a huge space with a little bit of everything.

The Utah Renaissance Faire takes place Aug. 23-24 at Young Living Lavender Farm in Mona, Utah

Nerd Meetups and Other Events

If you’re looking for get-togethers in more intimate settings, there are a lot of options for you.

The Salt Lake City Public Library (210 E. 400 South, SLC, 801-5248200, services.slcpl.org) hosts occasional “how to play” meetups for Dungeons and Dragons role-playing games, as do many of the game stores. The library also hosts the Salt Lake Anime and Manga Club (meetup.com/slam-utah-salt-lake-anime-manga-club), which has watch parties, book clubs, and movie nights.

For film nerds, the Salt Lake Film Society hosts Summer Showdown featuring weekend screenings of classics, along with a horror series, Tower of Terror, in September and October, all screened at the Broadway Centre Cinemas (111 E. 300 South, SLC, 801-3210310, slfs.org).

The Utah Symphony (123 W. South Temple, SLC, 801-533-5626, utahsymphony.org) is also a bastion of geek events every year, with its Films in Concert Series that allow you to watch your favorite fantasy movie while the orchestra plays its iconic soundtrack. They’re a staple in the geek community here.

And if you just want a casual night out with some adult beverages and mildly geeky fare, you can’t throw a rock on a weeknight in this town without hitting a pub quiz. For my money, my favorite is Trivia on Main, which takes place Wednesday nights at Keys on Main (242 S. Main, SLC, 801-363-3638, keysonmain.com). (Full disclosure: it’s my favorite because I host it, but you can find trivia nights at any number of local bars and pubs.

Whatever nerdtastic activity you’re looking to get involved in, there are bound to be local enthusiasts for it. We’re a big enough city to support all of it. All it takes is a quick internet search to find what you want.

And if you don’t find a group you’re looking for, maybe launch one of your own? There’s no need to geek out all by your lonesome, especially with such a thriving community around you. �

Can I Get a Word in?

Female street artists I am excited about: Caro Nilsson, Shley and Miriam Gutierrez

BY CAT PALMER

In the male-dominated world of street art, we frankly need to celebrate more women. I could not pick just one muralist; I want to celebrate multiple! Caro Nilsson’s dreamlike, impressionistic landscapes pull the viewer into a specific place that feels outside of time. Nilsson has participated in the South Salt Lake Mural Fest, and her use of color is beyond dreamy! IG @caroznilsson

Next up is Shley: sign-painter and self-described, “SuperFreak.” When walking down the alley behind FICE Gallery (160 E. 200 South, SLC), I discovered their mural “Cozy With Who I Am, Work in Progress.” That spoke to me! IG @tiny_shley

I would love to have Miriam Gutierrez’s work tattooed on my body—it is that good! Her creative approach to art is deeply inspired by nature, focusing on fine details and at times coming from a unique perspective. Her work reflects on the natural world that surrounds us and how she views and connects with it.

Shley

Caro Nilsson

Miriam Gutierrez

BOOKSTORES

A BOOKISH PEOPLE

Salt Lakers love their books and the shops that sell them.

BY THOMAS CRONE

Among his other assignments and projects, Bryan Young contributes to City Weekly and serves as an executive board member of the League of Utah Writers. His is a busy 2024, with “a new novel coming out in the BattleTech universe in May. I’m working on a new novel as well and always a bunch of short stories. I have a short story coming out in the Utah Horror Writers collection soon, and another in the Best of Utah 2024 Anthology, and more elsewhere. There’s always something cooking.”

As well as being a prolific writer, he’s also an avid reader and finds that Salt Lake’s reputation as a great place to be a reader is well-earned.

“We have a really strong library system with lots of great places to curl up and read a book in their facilities,” he suggests. “We also have great local booksellers who work hard to connect the right books with the right people, and all of those tend to be close to coffee shops (or contain coffee shops themselves) where you can curl up and read those books.”

Booksellers obviously play a role in all this, as well, and here’s where SLC really excels. From stores that stock a bit of everything to those with a finely tuned curatorial bent, SLC offers a well-rounded literary landscape.

Young says that “we have an embarrassment of riches for great local book shops.” The quaint and charming King’s English Bookshop (1511 S. 1500 East, SLC, 801-484-9100, kingsenglish.com) is a must for booklovers, but two that seem to fly under the radar are The Legendarium (349 E. 900 South, SLC, 385-222-7788, legendariumbooks. com), offering selections in science fiction/fantasy/horror as well as a role-playing game (RPG) cafe, and Under the Umbrella (511 W. 200 South, Ste. 120, SLC, 801-922-0923, undertheumbrellabookstore.com), which calls itself “A queer little bookstore, queer owned/queer everything.”

In Millcreek, Young is drawn to the vibe of Marissa’s Used Books (3302 S. 900 East, Millcreek, 801-262-2873, marissasbooks.com). “It’s a converted auto mechanic’s shop and just full of books in every corner. It’s really friendly both to readers and to writers,” he notes.

With a vast used-book inventory, a great staff and low prices, Young says the Central Book Exchange (2017 S. 1100 East, SLC, 801-485-3913, central-bookexchange.com) “is another hidden gem that doesn’t seem to get talked about enough.”

As for comics, Young says, “I think we’ve got a great comic bookstore in city limits with Black Cat Comics (2261 S. Highland Drive, SLC, 801461-4228, blackcat-comics.com).” But he wishes there were more such stores downtown.

Acknowledging the loss of several large independent shops in the downtown core, Young also wishes Salt Lake had a destination bookstore in the city center, one “with a huge footprint and lots of space for reading and working.”

But one thing he longs for most is something he found in Portland: “Book pubs! Just a bar and a bookstore all rolled into one, and the tables are all hidden amongst the shelves. ... We really need like five of them here in town,” he says.

A Sampling of Spaces and Places

Yes, Salt Lake and its environs have chain stores; yes, the city has a number of independent bookstores. It’s also got wonderful, little places to browse, some of them super-specific in their offerings. While not a comprehensive list of potential stopping points, here’s a starter pack of places that folks can travel to find their book bliss. We add to Young’s list above with the following:

Brandon Anderson’s little shop contains multitudes. 9th & 9th Book & Music Gallery (962 E. 900 South, SLC, 801-739-1159, 9thand9thbookandmusic.com) sells, as the name implies, books and music, but also art, supplied by a host of indie artists around the area. And even the music part is multipronged, with Anderson, a member of the SLC country-punk band Whiskey Fish, offering both recorded music and instruments. The bookshelves are a curious collection of genre fiction—perhaps, you’ll walk out with a title by H.P. Lovecraft that cost a couple of dollars and that was the missing ingredient to your home collection. The shop’s moved somewhat recently, sliding up the block from one institution (the Tower Theatre) to a storefront nearer another (The Whale).

Relocation complete! Ken Sanders Rare Books (209 E. 500 South, SLC, 801-521-3819, kensandersbooks.com) is now fully moved into multiple levels of the massive Leonardo space, allowing Sanders and his crew an opportunity to better present thousands of titles, with particularly strong emphases on Western states literatures and, of course, rare books, which Sanders collects on buying-and-selling trips across the U.S.

STEVEN VARGO

SLC’s newest bookstore, Lovebound Library (145 E. 900 South, SLC, IG @loveboundlibrary), opened just in time for avid Valentine’s Day coverage from the local press. It’s also one of the most specific of the bunch. Lovebound Library’s owner Courtney Stookey claimed a place in a growing roster of bookstores nationally. Her romance-themed shop is open from Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., in the space that used to be the non-alcoholic bar Curiosity.

A Sugar House classic, Raunch Records (1119 E. 2100 South, SLC, 801-467-6077, IG @raunchrecords), may be known for its vinyl and such, but it’s also got a heady number of skate decks, T-shirts and bric’a’brac, with a small book section that leans towards alt-culture and punk. Zines seem to be having a moment in the sun of late, and small, indie press publications show up on the shelves of Raunch’s li’l book section. It might be a secondary piece of the business model here, but it’s a solid piece.

The well-stocked rare books section at Weller Book Works (607 Trolley Square, SLC, 801-328-2586, wellerbookworks.com) is notable, but Weller also excels at selling a mix of used and new titles across all popular genres, with smart end-cap suggestions from the knowledgeable staff. The Utah and LDS sections are also worth a call-out.

A Community of Many Parts

In addition to the shops listed above, readers and writers can get connected through IRL and online resources. Such as:

The League of Utah Writers (leagueofutahwriters.com): As noted in the introduction, the league, active since 1935, is dedicated to a mission that “empowers the writing and publishing goals of members through community interaction and dynamic educational opportunities from novice through professional levels.”

Life, The Universe & Everything (ltue.net): Slated for a return in February of 2025, LTUE is a conference that sprung up at Brigham Young University over 30 years back and currently serves its community with “a three-day academic symposium on all aspects of science fiction and fantasy.” LTUE is “comprised of panels, presentations and papers on writing, art, literature, film, gaming and other facets of speculative fiction.”

Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers (wifyr.com): Held in Draper from June 10-14, the WIFYR offers year-’round programming along with a summer workshop session offering dozens of hours of workshop time and specific, goal setting and goal-completing opportunities for up-and-coming writers. �

Can I get a word in?

Slam poets I’m really into right now

BY CAT PALMER

It’s impossible for me to choose just one poet because Salt Lake City is a hotbed of slam poetry talent—we are overflowing with creativity. I first discovered the incredible skills of Wynter Storm (@wyner_storm1) and purchased her books at a Juneteenth event. Storm’s “Revolutionary Dreamer” speaks to my soul as she pulls me in with, “We are all H.O.M.E.: Hopes of Mending Everything.”

Ashley Finley (@findafinley) always delivers and was involved in the remarkable Salt Lake Acting Co. production called Sankofa, This Journey: Go Back and Get It. Sankofa stands out as one of the most brilliant and impactful productions ever held in SLC.

Young up-and-coming poets that need to be on your radar: Youri Young (@youriyoung) and Jamera Naquai (@jameranaquai). Seek out these talented individuals, follow them, and prepare to be captivated as you fall in love.

Slam poet Wynter Storm

SINGLES LOOKING TO MINGLE

How to find friends and maybe your true love in the City of Salt.

BY CAROLYN CAMPBELL

Whether you’re looking for friendship or a significant other, the recipe for meeting people is easy (or is it?)—summon your confidence and head out there.

If you haven’t found “the one” yet, you’re not alone. The number of singletons is growing, and being single in Utah is no longer as socially awkward as it once was. Nationally, the U.S. single population has grown steadily in relation to the married population. Here in Utah, a similar trend emerges. Utah grew from being 36% single in 1980 to 40% single in 2000 to 44% single today.

The tips that follow are geared more toward straight dating but LGBTQIA folks may find it helpful for finding friends. There are additional resources for LGBTQIA that can be found within this guide.

Age 20-34: The world’s your oyster

You’re in your prime, but you may feel the clock ticking. In Utah, the median age for a woman’s first marriage is 24.5, and for men, it’s 26.2, the youngest in the nation.

How to meet that potential partner, though, is still the question. The 20s have it easier since many are still taking college classes, joining campus clubs and pursuing extracurricular passions—all great ways to connect with others who share your outlook.

Group activities—such as Campus Rec-hosted camping trips and adventures, fitness and yoga classes, campus intramural leagues, city adult leagues and social sports leagues—all bring active people together. So do first jobs, internships, service projects for church or community, volunteering on political campaigns and working on street teams for festivals and nonprofits.

There’s also our lively music and arts community with its house parties, live concerts, raves, music jams, dance classes, slam poetry events and, of course, nightclubbing. Maybe a buzzy coffee shop like Publik Coffee Roasters (975 S. West Temple, SLC, 801-355-3161) will bring a chance encounter. Scroll through KRCL.org’s Rallies and Resources page to find a cause to support and make some friends along the way. Comedy nights and escape rooms are also mirthful places for potential connection.

If you’d rather be matched by dating apps, try Hinge if you’re looking for a more respectful, deeper dive, Tinder if you seek something casual, and women might try Bumble (since women make the first move). FYI, Match still has the most mar-

riages to show for it. And if you 30-somethings are still looking for a friend or a match, then pretend you’re in your 20s and start again.

Competitive cornhole, anyone? Since 2011, two friends—and more every year—have converged to play casual co-ed recreational sports through the Beehive Sport and Social Club (2212 S. West Temple, Ste. 104, SLC, 801-558-9194, beehivesports.com). This club is open to anyone wanting to expand their circle of friends and play sports for fun. Register for kickball, flag football, soccer, sand volleyball and other leagues—including a winter darts league.

Age 35-59: In search of like minds

At this age, a good many Utahns have been there, done that, in terms of finding a partner. If it has worked out, great; but if not, you might be more interested in cultivating good friendships until a keeper catches your eye again. But, how do more mature folks get back into circulation when bar-hopping and flag football may be a thing of the past?

Well, OK, a brewery crawl may be more your speed, and Salt Lake has you covered there. As for physical exercise? Relationship counselor Kristin Sokol says her clients are all playing pickleball, a game that combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis. While outdoor courts can be found all over town, Utah is now home to six franchises of The Picklr (thepicklr. com), an indoor climate-controlled pickleball club, featuring indoor courts, leagues, tournaments and more. “There’s a lot of activity, it’s easy to play, and you don’t have to be in peak condition,” Sokol says. “You can play fast and furious or move slow,” she adds. There is even a national book titled Pickleball Dating, says Sokol.

Get in the know

Social media apps can put things on your radar. Meetup.com organizes groups and lists their upcoming events, Reddit r/SaltLakeCity keeps it real and provides local crowd-sourced advice, Facebook has local singles groups you can follow or join along with an event/activities calendar. Instagram/TikTok are homes to local influencers who can let you know when and where good things are happening. Sokol says several of her clients use Eventbrite as a hub. “If you want to have a trivia night, country swing or assemble a 5,000-piece puzzle, you can post it on Eventbrite,” she says.

Be a joiner

If you’re a business-oriented person, get active with a local chamber of commerce in your community. If nonprofits are more your thing, Google one that resonates with you and check out their volunteer opportunities. If you have expertise to lend, offer to serve on a nonprofit board. Consider volunteering for a charity golf event. If you’re religious, or trying to be, you know that every church needs volunteers.

Sokol says that putting things into a calendar is crucial. “If you come home tired after a long day at work, you are much more likely to go out if you already have things on the calendar,” she says.

Age 60-75, and beyond: Let’s get together

For some who are over 60, the desire to meet the “one” may have faded, but they’re living their best life (with a coterie of friends and family, that is, like in Grace and Frankie). In retirement, they’ll find a bestie who likes to travel or hit the bingo circuit. And they may still check their dating profiles on Match.com, OurTime or eHarmony just to see if there are any new faces.

Many single seniors still date, but casually, because not all are looking to get married. Some couples might move in together with no strings attached to share expenses and enjoy life together.

The more youthful seniors might shrug if you suggest they visit a senior center. But it isn’t a bad idea. According to Afton January, communications and PR manager for Salt Lake County Aging Services, Salt Lake County’s 15 senior centers are “the best places for seniors to meet other people and socialize.”

Not only that, but they’re one of few places offering a “free” lunch. “Everyone can eat here, January says, “children, grownups and elderly grownups.” For those over 60, lunches are free (but a $4 donation is suggested). For those under 60, the lunch costs $9.09.)

Centers host activities for the 60-plus folks, January says, including fitness and health classes, skill-building classes such as knitting and archery and “write your life story” classes. You can also learn about and have support for matters that seniors are dealing with, such as being widowed or dealing with chronic health conditions.

Seniors who are less inclined to get out of the house can still interact with the center virtually. “These classes are self-directed. You might have a craft kit delivered, or we will send you the art supplies,” January says. To see the senior center class catalog and read the Senior Scoop newsletter, visit slco.org/aging

At whatever age you find yourself single, when it comes to socializing and finding new friends, try getting out of your comfort zone and go where people are active and involved. Be careful with dating apps, though. There may be Plenty of Fish, but there are also plenty of fakes. Good luck! ■

COURTESY PHOTO

Salt Lake seniors get their groove on at county-operated senior centers.

DIVERSE UNIVERSE

It’s a wonderful day in Salt

Lake’s

gayborhood.

BY CAT PALMER

Salt Lake City may be known worldwide as the headquarters of the conservative Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. But the city is also home to a vibrant LGBTQ+ population. And may we just say: We are here, we are queer and we’re not going anywhere.

But for how we got here, let’s do a quick recap of recent history. Up until 2013, our local LGBTQ+ community struggled to find its place in the Utah sun. But hell froze over on Dec. 20, 2013, when city and county clerks in Utah began issuing marriage licenses to LGBTQ+ couples after U.S. District Court Judge Robert J. Shelby ruled that Utah’s ban on same-sex marriage was unconstitutional. Utah led the way for gay marriage before the U.S. Supreme Court legalized it nationwide in 2015.

In 2016, American LGBTQ+ magazine The Advocate ranked Salt Lake City one of America’s 10 queerest cities (we have more gay folks per capita than Los Angeles). We know there’s room for improvement, but we also know we are a pretty fabulous gay town.

Also in 2016, a road segment on 900 South spanning 1½ miles east to west was named Harvey Milk Boulevard in honor of California’s first openly gay elected public official, who was assassinated in 1978. Along this road, specifically at 265 East on the side of Vintage Drift thrift shop—which is proudly queer-owned— a mural created by local muralist Josh Scheuerman is dedicated to Harvey Milk.

Interestingly, the 9th & 9th area was among the first “gayborhoods” of Salt Lake City, but nowadays, you’ll find that most areas of Salt Lake City proper are gay-friendly, from the Avenues to Marmalade, Rose Park and Sugar House

In 2021, Salt Lake City earned the maximum score possible (100 out of 100) on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index, which looks at how inclusive municipal laws, policies and services are of LGBTQ+ people who live and work in the city.

In 2023, the Utah Arts Festival brought in non-binary pansexual Appalachian rock star, Adeem the Artist, and Utah got a little cooler that day.

While I would personally love to see more queer, trans and nonbinary spaces in our capital city, we still have plenty to offer. What follows is a sampling. You’ll find even more resources at cityweekly.net.

Film Festival

First up is our annual international LGBTQ+ film festival. Formerly known as Damn These Heels, Utah Queer Film Festival will host in-person screenings Oct. 25-27, 2024, at the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center (138 W. 300 South, SLC, damntheseheels.org) and virtual screenings from Oct. 27-Nov 3. Established in 2003, the festival is Utah’s premier LGBTQ+ film festival, celebrating diversity and inclusion through the powerful medium of cinema and showcasing LGBTQ+ stories, talents, and perspectives. (By way of disclosure: I have participated on the programming committee for six years, and I am excited to announce I will be their programming director for 2024. I can attest to the quality and diversity of films we screen.) Save the date for the Halloqween extravaganza!

Bookstores

A blast from the past: From 1979-1984, Abby Maestas owned and operated 20 Rue Jacob, which brought together some of the bestknown thinkers of that time to share their ideas and creative pursuits (their space is now Moochie’s sandwich shop.)

Nothing filled that gap in our community until Under the Umbrella Bookstore (511 W. 200 South, SLC, 801-922-0923, undertheumbrellabookstore.com) opened its doors in November 2021. This “queer little bookstore” shares and celebrates queer books written by queer authors and offers a safe, sober and accessible space for LGBTQ+ people to gather. Join their online book club or the many groups that use

The Damn These Heels film festival has a new name in 2024: It’s now the Utah Queer Film Festival

the space such as the Queer Stitch Club! Another queer-owned bookstore to check out for its sci-fi, fantasy and horror genres is Legendarium (349 E. 900 South, SLC, 385-222-7788, legendariumbooks.com)

Did you know?

Speaking of queer history: Connell O’Donovan (connellodonovan.com) is a local gay historian of all things queer in SLC. His content provides insights into intriguing backstories. For example, Brigham Morris Young (1854-1931) was the son of the Latter-day Saint prophet Brigham Young and wife No. 18, Margaret Pierce. His drag name was Madam Pattirini and he would stun crowds with his performances. Curtis Jensen and O’Donovan first published the photo of Madam Pattirini in a queer ’zine here in 1991.

Podcast

Human Stories With Jill Hazard Rowe goes in-depth with some of the most inspiring and touching stories from people in our community. There is something for everyone to learn as we come together to celebrate our shared humanity. (Available on all platforms.)

Groups

Encircle (331 S. 600 East, SLC—and also locations in Provo, Heber and St. George—encircletogether. org) is empowering LGBTQ+ youth and families statewide through community and connection. Encircle has after-school services for youth ages 12-17 and services for young adults up to age 25. They

Damn These Heels 2023

envision a world where LGBTQ+ youth know they are loved, love themselves and have hope for a bright future.

Burning Sissy Valley (IG @burningsissyvalley): “We are proud to transgress gender norms, we are proud of our ancestral roots! We will continue to resist!” This group is for QTPOC, and we love that this exists!

F.A.M. (utahfam.org): Friends, Allies and Mentors is a collective of Utah educators passionate about LGBTQ+ inclusive schools.

Project Rainbow (projectrainbowutah.org) empowers and uplifts LGBTQ+ individuals throughout Utah by fostering visibility, promoting inclusivity and providing crucial support through our community fund. Each flag that is supported by our neighbors symbolizes community, safety and investment back into our larger community.

Arts, Entertainment and Nightlife

Dance the night away: Milk+ (49 E. Harvey Milk Blvd. [900 South], SLC, 801935-4424, milkslc.com)

Other gay bars in town:

Club Try-Angles (251 Harvey Milk Blvd. [900 South], SLC, 801-364-3203, clubtryangles.com)

The Locker Room sports bar and queer-owned (1063 E. 2100 South, SLC, 801-463-9393, @thelockerroomslc)

Why Kiki (69 W. 100 South, SLC, 801-641-6115, whykikibar.com) Karamba gay Latin nights (1051 E. 2100 South, SLC, 801-696-0639, @krazynights)

Club Verse (609 S. State, SLC, 970-986-7279, clubverseslc.com)

DYKED! (a pop-up)

Drag shows at Metro Music Hall (615 W. 100 South, SLC, 385-528-0952, metromusichall.com).

Save the date: May 17-18, 2024, for the Queer Spectra Arts Festival (Sorenson Unity Center, 1383 S. 900 West, SLC, queerspectra.com). This is a group of queer artists based in Salt Lake City working together to cultivate a safe space for artists who self-identify as LGBTQ+ to showcase their works and engage audiences in conversation regarding art and queer identity.

Crowdsourced Comedy (crowdsourcedlive.com): SLC’s LGBTQ+ and Black-woman-owned comedy troupe with various shows and workshops.

Pride Festivals

Yes, SLC has one of the biggest Pride festivals in the nation, and our city will have two in June 2024: Utah Pride Festival and Parade (Washington and Library Square Park, utahpride.org) will take place June 1-2, and Salt Lake City Pride (The Gateway, SLC-pride.org) is slated for June 27-30. Other Utah cities celebrating Pride: Ogden, Provo, Logan, Davis County, Moab, Southern Utah, Pride Without Police and Helper. We have no shortage of wanting to celebrate that love is love, and we are visible! ■

Saucy Fun

Jason CoZmo not only performs but produces Salt Lake’s Viva La Diva.

Join the excitement and laughs at celebrity impersonator drag show

The Viva La Diva Show (Metro Music Hall, 615 W. 100 South, SLC, 385528-0952, metromusichall.com, thevivaladivashow.com). Talented drag queens bring saucy irreverent fun paying tribute to Freddie Mercury, Dolly Parton, Liza Minnelli, Bette Midler and other celebs. —By

Kass Wood

COURTESY PHOTO

OLD SALTS

Social, active and on the go—SLC seniors just wanna have fuh-un.

BY BABS DE LAY

Despite the worrisome thoughts that Social Security may run out in 10 years and that health care will cost more than ever, boomers in general are managing to have some fun as they retire. In fact, with the state’s epic outdoor recreation offerings, many think Utah is an ideal place to retire. When I quizzed my senior friends on Facebook as to how they occupy their time (boomers use Facebook more than any other platform), I received a plethora of answers as to what they’re up to. I followed up with a few friends in person, and here’s what they said: Pickleball! The tennis-ping pong hybrid game has become so popular in Salt Lake City that boomers and fans of the sport are pressuring local parks and rec managers to convert unused tennis courts into smaller pickleball courts. As of 2023, Salt Lake City oversees 14 public (free) pickleball courts on the city’s east side (located at 11th Avenue Park, the 5th Avenue and C Street courts and Fairmont Park). So, the city now wants to expand pickleball courts out west, converting four tennis courts of Glendale Park into six pickleball courts. Plus, there’s now funding for two courts in Poplar Grove Park, two at Fairpark Fire Station and about eight at Rosewood Park. Clubs with indoor courts are also cropping up locally and nationwide offering memberships, lessons and tournaments. Also note that many Salt Lake County’s senior centers have pickleball courts.

Facebook friend Barbara and others said that in addition to listening to NPR, reading the paper and doing puzzles, they love going to lo-

cal theater productions. Members of the group Utah Theater Lovers (facebook.com/groups/ utahtheaterlovers) see shows at Pioneer Memorial Theatre, Hale Centre Theatre, Eccles and Capitol theaters and dozens of other venues. (See the arts calendar listings in the following pages for dates/locations of shows.)

M. Scott says, “I don’t paint the town anymore, but I do hit the town to see the paintings.” Salt Lake Gallery Stroll, held monthly on the third Friday (except in December, when it’s on the first Friday), remains a big draw for seniors. Galleries are open after hours for the public to meet and greet artists while browsing their work at shows in downtown, Sugar House and other parts of the city. gallerystroll.org

Music was mentioned by a lot of folks, whether they are actively playing an instrument at home, getting together to jam in a band or going to concerts with friends. There’s usually free music to be enjoyed at local pubs or at community concerts. Ray said that he hosts the Blues Jam at the Green Pig Pub every Monday (31 E. 400 South, SLC, 801-532-7441, thegreenpigpub.com).

Michael Feldman of Feldman’s Deli (2005 E. 2700 South, SLC, 801-906-0369, feldmansdeli. com) and fellow boomer Tally Evans play in a duo called Two Old Guys (twooldguysmusic@ ueinweb.com). Feldman is from New Jersey and Evans is from Price, and they have a mutual background in country rock, blues and ’70s rock /folk. As guitar collectors, they met and started jamming together, then began playing around town. Feldman’s Deli periodically has a show called Old Jews Telling Jokes (check for dates on Two Old Guys Facebook page). Lou, of the “Old Coots Giving Advice” fame where he and Feldman and others used to hold court at the Downtown Farmer’s Market, is the master of ceremonies at the Two Old Guys show. Expect ballads, bawdy music and drinkin’ songs!

Joni said she retired seven years ago and that her first stop was the Sandy Senior Center (9310

S. 1300 East, Sandy, 385-468-3410, slco.org/sandy-senior-center) where she facilitates a twicemonthly current events discussion. “You can bet your bottom dollar that seniors aren’t afraid of a little lovely political talk,” she says. “Also, we have a monthly freethinker discussion group, two book clubs, hiking, dancing and a weekly Shakespeare reading group. Life in retirement is busy!”

Pamela and friends are huge fans of the U of U’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (continue. utah.edu/osher). Here, you’ll be able to sign up for classes, lectures and special activities taught by distinguished emeritus faculty, scholars and community experts. If you’re 50+, it’s $40 to be a member, and that fee gets you into the Natural History Museum of Utah and the U of U Museum of Fine Arts. Find a class on volcanoes, art history, beginning ukulele, fitness with Vivo for seniors, classic guitar, dissent and the Supreme Court, end-of-life planning and everyday mindfulness, just to name just a few. Pamela herself teaches a six-week course: Meditation for Skeptics. Many chimed in, saying you have to keep learning to stay on this side of the dirt!

Book clubs: Keep reading! Susan is 80 years old (beyond boomer age), but alert and smart as a whip, speaking several languages, teaching and serving in leadership positions in her church. She swims every morning and belongs to five book clubs. Recently, she packed up to move to a new home and counted 263 boxes of books that were to be relocated in her new place. (slcolibrary.org/we-recommend/bookclubs)

Hike: Alicia swears by her mantra: “Motion is the lotion! Seniors need to keep moving: hiking, skiing of any kind, gardening and travel when you can.” The King’s English Bookshop (1511 S. 1500 East, SLC, 801-484-9100, kingsenglish.com) and other local bookstores sell guides to local hiking trails, she says, or you can pick up guides at your local library. “It might blow your mind

DEREK CARLISLE

The beat goes on for Tally Evans, center, and Mike Feldman, right, who make up the musical duo Two Old Guys.

The U of U Osher Lifelong Learning Institute offers diverse classes for seniors, such as this one about the history of the printing press.

with the variety of outings our state has to offer! And I’m not just talkin’ the Big 5.”

Golf: Most of my fellow boomer friends play golf. Utah has amazing courses—gorgeous ones in Southern Utah and all along the Wasatch Front. Plus, 18 holes and a cart are cheap as hell compared to places like California. Snowbirds can play in the winter in the southern part of the state and then move north during the summer to enjoy our courses up here. I play every week from spring to fall at Bonneville (just above Hogle Zoo) in a women’s league and get to play team play with others where we travel around to various courses along the Wasatch Front. Check out the Utah Golf Association for info on courses (uga.org)

Volunteer: Several folks—singles and couples—mentioned they are spiritually fulfilled by volunteering and giving back to the community. Anyone can go on their local city or state website to find volunteer positions for experienced or novice people. From reading to kids at a school or at the library to counting birds in the annual Salt Lake Christmas Bird Count (greatsaltlakeaudobon.org), ushering for a Broadway show at the Eccles or Symphony Hall (saltlakecountyarts.org/ volunteerusherprogram) or planting and harvesting with Wasatch Community Gardens (wasatchgardens.org), there’s something for every interest and skillset.

According to one medical website, we boomers are more likely than the previous generation to have a disability as we near late life. While we are less likely to smoke, have emphysema or a heart attack than previous generations, we are more likely to be obese or have diabetes or high blood pressure than the previous generation at similar ages. Socializing, exercising, keeping the mind alert and active are the ticket to quality aging and adding more humor to your life! To wit: How many boomers does it take to change a light bulb? None. We’ll all resist change even if it means making the world a brighter place! ■

COURTESY PHOTO

This bumper crop from a Wayne County hemp farm will be sold to Utahns with medical cards.

Shake and Bake

Medical cannabis is on offer in Utah.

BY COLE FULLMER

Utah’s Medical Cannabis program isn’t just legislation; it’s a lifeline for thousands of patients across the state. As the smoke clears from the Utah Legislature’s 2024 general session, significant updates to the program promise a brighter future for those in need. Let’s dive right into the heart of the matter, where numbers, legislation and patient stories converge much like the endocannabinoid system, in a symphony of progress and possibility.

Patient Empowerment: By the numbers

Imagine this: 81,267 individuals clutching the golden ticket—a Utah medical cannabis card. Yes, more than 81,000 patients are forging paths toward a brighter, more liberated existence in the Behave State. But hold onto your vaporizer: 20,487 of these pioneers allowed their cards to expire in 2023. Are they healed, or are they fed up with Utah cannabis?

And what about those 4,710 patients who have yet to make a purchase from Utah’s medical cannabis pharmacies? This accounts for 5.7% of the total population of current medical cannabis cardholders. They’re not just numbers; they’re narratives of resilience and resistance. These folks are saying, “We’ll take the card and its rights, but we’ll find our green elsewhere.” It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of defiance in the face of archaic laws. Engaging in the purchase of cannabis from other legal states or black-market connections also entails a violation of existing laws.

Dollars and Sense: The cannabis economy

Now, let’s talk green—$137,968,842 to be exact. This staggering sum is the total amount of money spent on medical cannabis products by cardholders at pharmacies in 2023. With over a million transactions recorded, the tally stands at a remarkable 3.1 million individual cannabis products purchased. That’s not just economic activity; it’s a thriving industry, pulsating with the heartbeat of progress and potential. The staggering amount spent on medical cannabis products by cardholders at pharmacies in 2023 is a testament to the transformative power of cannabis in the lives of patients. With each transaction, patients aren’t just purchasing products; they’re investing in their well-being, reclaiming agency over their health and happi-

ness. This robust spending, averaging $1,697.72 per patient annually, underscores the profound demand for cannabis as a therapeutic tool. It signifies a paradigm shift in health care, where patients are actively seeking alternative remedies that align with their individual needs and preferences.

Legislative Highs: What’s cooking at the Capitol

But let’s not forget the legislative fireworks that lit up the 2024 general session. Senate Bill 233 sparked flames of change, bringing amendments to Utah’s medical cannabis laws. Though not passed anew, this updated stalwart saw revisions that could revolutionize patient access. From workplace deliveries to waivers for terminal patients, SB 233 blazes a trail toward a more patient-centric approach.

Meanwhile, House Bill 389 refined pharmacy operations, ensuring patients have a diverse array of state-made products at their fingertips. By limiting ownership and bolstering quality control, HB 389 promises to streamline the patient experience from prescription to purchase.

Patient Statistics: Insights into Utah’s cannabis landscape

Beyond the headlines and legislative halls lie the stories of patients, their struggles and their triumphs. As mentioned earlier, more than 81,000 individuals held medical cards in 2023, while 20,487 let their cards expire and 4,710 had a card but did not make a purchase. These figures aren’t just numbers; they’re windows into the complexities of Utah’s evolving cannabis landscape.

While the high number of cardholders reflects a significant acceptance of medical cannabis, the expiration of cards underscores the need for ongoing education and accessibility. Moreover, the sizable portion of patients not utilizing state dispensaries highlights potential gaps in product availability, pricing or patient preferences. As Utah’s medical cannabis program continues to evolve, addressing these challenges will be crucial in ensuring equitable access and optimal patient outcomes.

A Call to Action: Puff, puff, pass the torch of advocacy

As we inhale the promise of progress, let’s not merely observe from the sidelines, but rather, let’s become the architects of change. Together, we can ignite change, empower patients and cultivate a future where access to medical cannabis is a right, not a privilege. So, let’s light the fire, Utah, and blaze a trail toward a brighter, greener tomorrow. Metaphorically speaking, of course. You still need to vaporize your cannabis to be a legal consumer. That’s a story for another day, though. ■

WIKI COMMONS

HIGHFALUTIN’ UTAH

No longer a fashion desert, Salt Lake makes shopping fun with its trendy and one-of-a-kind retailers.

BY CHRISTA ZARO

I

n truth, Salt Lake City was a bit of shopping desert when I moved here from the East Coast 30 years ago. There were just a few department stores or one-off shops to visit back then— places like Mervyn’s, ZCMI, Contempo Casuals, Chalk Garden and Nordstrom (at the original Main Street location).

Salt Lake City has since grown into a mid-size city, with high demand for new designers and out-of-state retailers. I’m happy to report that Salt Lake City is blossoming into a fertile oasis of retail stores and city style that I’d always hoped for. Here are some of my favorite haunts:

The perfect gift at O.C. Tanner Jewelers

Founder Obert C. Tanner wanted to create the most beautiful jewelry store in all of America, and this downtown flagship fulfilled his desires. O.C. Tanner’s 1904 landmark building was the city’s first public library and later became the Hansen Planetarium. The classic Beaux Arts building has a breathtaking spiral staircase with a 26.4 foot chandelier with over 4,000 fiber optic strands. No need to be a bride-to-be to shop here, although let me mention their heritage brands, including Kwiat, Messika, Rolex, Patek Philippe, Breitling, Cartier and Omega. The real gems are on the third floor in the home and lifestyle department. Qlocktwo timepieces that spell out the time, Baccarat crystal, alpaca throws, picture frames from L’Objet and Reed & Barton and Italian pottery from Rina Menardi. This is the place for gifts to mark the special occasions of your life—weddings, births, retirements as well as hostess and client gifts. Or simply find ways to zhuzh up your own personal space. 15 S. State, SLC, 801-532-3222, octannerjewelers.com

Ah! Cashmere at Zenzee Boutique

A Maven District clothing boutique featuring signature ultra soft cashmere sets in the prettiest pastels. Small-batch clothing made by a team of female designers and sewists at their Park City workshop. Functional women’s wear (think sets) that are comfy yet luxurious. Hand-dyed cashmere, deadstock fabrics, deconstructed and embellished crewnecks, tie-dye beanies and socks, supercool pool slides emblazoned with a peace sign and heart. When you wear Zenzee, you are wearing an original design crafted right here in Utah. Enjoy being unique! 156 E. 900 South, Ste. 101, SLC, 425-985-2777, shopzenzee.com

Manly and modern: Curriculum

If a San Francisco lifestyle boutique hooked up with a Brooklyn men’s store and had a love child, Curriculum would be the offspring! Located in the 9th & 9th district, Curriculum is moody and sultry and, if it had a signature scent, it would smell like vetiver, moss and wood. The vibe is industrial and masculine with a touch of modern home goods: socks and beanies from RoToTo, Samuel Zelig embroidered sweatshirts, Lowercase sunglasses and Taion Japanese utility clothing. The men’s jewelry, watches and leather goods ooze sex appeal. You won’t find a selection of candles of this magnitude anywhere in the city. The standouts are D. S. & Durga, Sydney Hale and Mad et Len from France. You’ll find accoutrements for your home bar like cocktail glasses, brass trays, shakers, bitters, incense holders, coffee table books, arty playing cards and Oxford Pennants. There’s a barbershop inside, too! 865 E. 900 South, SLC, 801-200-8747, curriculum.shop

Spice things up at the Colombian Marketplace

It’s endless summer at this apparel boutique in The Gateway. Owner Andrea Zambrano shows off her Colombian pride with her country’s beachy fashions. You’ll find floral bathing suits, Waimari lace cover ups, tassel and fringe bucket bags, light and flowy skirts and tops in vibrant colors. This store shares space with eight Latina vendors under the umbrella W.O.S.B. (women-owned small business) Collective. Here, your shopping experience connects you with brands from around the world, with lots of stories to tell. Artist Paula Rojas makes exceptional crochet items like gold handbags, tops and coverups. At Cempoala, you’ll find colorful hats from Mexico with beaded bands that evokes the spirit of Frida Kahlo. Jewelry, shoes, local handcrafted art and more. The Gateway, 136 S. Rio Grande St., SLC, 786-603-8838, thecolombianmarketplace.com

Classic style at Coach Play Store

This NYC-based leather-goods company was founded in 1941, and recently opened their second concept “play store” in the nation (the first is in Chicago) in Salt Lake City. The “play area” affords an interactive experience with the customer and lets you customize your Coach bag with monogramming, interchangeable straps, patches and charms to reflect your personal style. With a recent rebrand, Coach is making a comeback while still selling its archival silhouettes that look authentically American. The neon sign in the window beckons and was made locally by Brimley Neon. City Creek Center, 50 S. Main, Ste. 261, SLC, 801-532-3836, coach.com

Trendy, sleek fashion at Alo

Alo Yoga started as an e-commerce store in Beverly Hills and grew quickly to 60+ stores with a new one at the City Creek Center. Men’s and women’s lifestyle clothing in monochromatic elevated styles with new drops by color every two weeks that regulars anticipate. This “studio to street brand” is always ahead of the curve, setting trends that are guaranteed to sell out quickly. Their hoodies, leggings, trousers, biker shorts, tanks and more are designed to make you look gorgeous whether you’re taking a Lagree class or brunching. And don’t overlook their yoga accessories, sneakers and a clean skin-care system. City Creek Center, 50 S. Main, Ste. 178, SLC, 385-339-0399, aloyoga.com

COURTESY PHOTO

The Maven District’s Zenzee Boutique

Get your hat on at Gigi Pip

A premier women’s hat brand founded and designed in Salt Lake City. Each hat goes through 70+ quality steps while remaining affordable for a custom. Many silhouettes to choose from fedora, rancher, pencil and wide brim, western and Panama straw in beautiful neutral colors. Available at retailers, but why not visit this downtown store and to get the right fit. Customize your hat at the Band Bar with embellishments like bandanas, beads, feathers and leather. Women wear many hats in life, and Gigi Pip can fulfill all the iterations of your authentic self. Now, the gentlemen of the world can also have a finely crafted hat with Gigi’s new hat company for men called Two Roads. Showroom: 360 W. 300 South, SLC, 801-203-0903; HQ: 571 Deseret Drive, Kaysville; gigipip.com

Boot scoot on over to Tecovas

A Western wear company headquartered in Austin, Texas, that started as an e-commerce brand has opened in City Creek Center, and now you can get your Yellowstone vibe dialed in. The cowboy boots are affordable, and the designs are a perfect balance between cowboy and fashion, not too pointy and not too trendy. Designed in Austin and handmade in Leon, Mexico, the leather capital of the world. There are leather accessories like wallets and belts and bags, Western denim snap shirts, cowboy hats that are customizable and rugged denim jeans for men and women. There is even a leather polishing station where team members will polish any boot in any type of leather. Tecovas wants the boot fit to be right, and they go out of their way to help. City Creek Center, 50 S. Main, Ste. 170, SLC, 307-269-9533, tecovas.com ■

WHAT’S

OLD IS NEW

Hone your personal style at SLC’s vintage and consignment stores.

BY CHRISTA ZARO

Salt Lake City vintage clothing and pre-loved furniture shops are popping up all over, and the prices aren’t as overblown as you’d find in LA or Dallas. As the former “Shop Girl” columnist for City Weekly, I find there is nothing like the thrill of the hunt, and of finding a cast-off designer item at dopamine-inducing low prices. Not only is it environmentally prudent to reuse clothing and household goods, but the act of shopping locally circulates more dollars in our community and encourages meaningful connections with store owners. Come discover these pre-owned and vintage shops in the city—then keep looking for others (there are many).

Vantage: Coats of many colors

Levi’s to bomber to Carhart jackets

This is where all the cool kids shop for ’70s to ’90s threads while enjoying great tunes on rotation (Olivia Rodrigo loved shopping here while filming High School Musical at East High School). This place for sure has a vibe with two massive disco balls overhead and featuring goods like Doc Martens, Polo rugbies, jean jackets, camo and graphics tees from the ’80s and ’90s— much of it LA sourced. Super curated and organized, the shop rocks new arrivals every day. Check out the summer $5 sale in the alleyway that draws the crowds. 774 E. 800 South, SLC, 385-315-1848, IG: vantageslc

Shop Vintage: Add nostalgia to your style

Step back in time to a selection of clothes curated by color and sourced from SLC and LA. Open about two years in Sugar House, here is the place to find Woolrich, Dickies, Carhartt, iconic 501 Levi’s and Realtree. Shop the decades from the ’80s through early 2000s. The vibe is Druski meets Napoleon Dynamite 1115 E. 2100 South, SLC, 801-839-2209, vintageclothingsaltlakecity.com

Crewneck Vintage: Get in here, dude!

A gem tucked in the back of Village Vintage Interiors in Sugar House. This little space is brimming with mostly men’s stuff from the ’80s and ’90s like old trucker hats you’d find in offbeat places like Reno, Waco, Wendover and Buffalo. Vintage sports apparel is in high demand, and Crewneck has it with Utah Jazz jackets with the old school purple mountain logo and ’90s-era Chicago Bulls tees. You’ll find a second outpost of Crewneck Vintage inside Annata Collective. 1100 E. 2015 South, SLC, IG: crewneckvintage

“Annata” means “vintage” in Italian, and I’m already sold on the name. This dreamy store is filled with retro home goods, apparel and shoes. Owner Nicole Jensen sources daily in and around SLC, and her merchandising is designmagazine worthy and will inspire you to re-do spaces and closets. There is a denim bar, poster wall, kid’s shop and even a cowboy boot section. There are also nine unique vendors inside featuring their own vintage finds in home and apparel. Things I want so badly: brass storks, tall brass flower candlesticks, ’90s era Camel cigarette ashtray and a McCoy 1940s black lion men’s dresser. 362 E. 900 South, lower level, SLC, IG: annata.collective

Name Droppers: Designer duds

This is the holy grail for women’s upscale consignment apparel. In fact, Real Housewives has filmed here several times. Owner Tiffany Colaizzi and her team of stylists know what looks fabulous and remember their customers’ personal styles. You’ll find gently used and brandnew apparel with tags from Gucci, Chanel, Prada, Celine, Isabal Murant, YSL and more. Plus, look for accessories like designer sunglasses and jewelry from David Yurman and John Hardy. New designer clothes and accessories arrive daily, and it’s a windfall when a professional closet cleaner drops off the likes of a celebrity’s closet. There’s a men’s section and an outlet located on Parleys Way. 3355 S. Highland Drive, SLC, 801-486-1128, shopnamedroppers.com

Village Vintage Interiors

Home is where the vintage is

Here’s a treasure trove featuring 26 different vendors of throwback home goods and clothes. You could easily furnish an entire apartment or home with early American antique home furnishings from this location alone. Vintage glasses, original art, mushroom coffee mugs, colorful Pyrex bowls and dessert dishes your grandma would be proud of. This collaboration of vendors affords style on any budget. 2015 S. 1100 East, SLC, 801-510-7717, IG: thevillagevintageslc

Shadowplay: Mix up your styles

Located in “furniture row” on Broadway (300 South) in downtown SLC with an emphasis on ’80s and ’90s post-modern furniture, here you’ll find pastel candy-colored couches and curved Italian lacquered side tables mixed with organic desert-inspired accessories like pottery, barn shelves and travertine tables from Santa Fe. The glossy pizazz of the ’80s is evident in mirrored pedestals and Lucite coffee tables. Who says you have to commit to only one style of home design? There are no rules here! Also, a unique collection of vintage clothes and cowboy boots. 171 E. 300 South, SLC, shadowplayslc.com

Green Ant: A modern design haven

Anchored on the corner of 300 South and 200 East, the Green Ant is the OG of resale mid-century furniture. Owner Ron Green, aka the “mod father,” knows his mid-mod. He’s constantly sourcing rare, one-of-a-kind classic modern furniture with clean line esthetics like Saarinen tulip tables, Platner easy chairs and the Eames lounge and ottoman. Resellers shop here from bigger markets like LA and San Francisco because the selection is so pristine. You can also find an excellent selection of mid-mod art and lighting. The Green Ant replenishes its inventory weekly, so don’t sleep on this store. 179 E. 300 South, SLC, 801-595-1818, thegreenant.com

The Post Trading Co.: Let there be light!

A newcomer to furniture row with an emphasis on lighting. This store blends the Danish aesthetic of modern simplicity and natural elements with original art prints from Ojai, California artist Real Fun, Wow! Natural and simple Danish pendant lamps, brass and smoked glass etagere, Modeline lamp and Henredon leather woven chairs. Ethereal and warm, this store says, “let go and be free.” There are treasures waiting for you here. 169 E. 300 South, SLC, 801-2320527, thepostslc.com

Annata Collective: Molto bello!

Strawberry Mansion Vintage Furniture:

Weirdly wonderful vintage finds

The Bossert sisters grew up in the Philadelphia area surrounded by art, design and furniture. Lucky for SLC, Strawberry Mansion opened three and a half years ago, and they haven’t stopped sourcing the valley to bring us furniture from antique to modern. Credenzas, burlwood dining tables, retro ceramic lamps and groovy outdoor mosaic side tables. There is something for everyone, a mixture of high and low, and they have an affinity for art making this an excellent destination to decorate your walls. This store proves that aesthetic objects bring immense joy. 265 E. 900 South, SLC, 801-694-2715, IG: @strawberrymansion_slc

Store House:

Eclectic furnishings, art and objects

Vintage furniture with an emphasis on modern luxury pieces and one-of-a-kind accessories blended with an industrial aesthetic. You’ll find Milo Baughman armchairs, George Nelson side tables, Gaetano Sciolari chandeliers, Knoll coffee tables and one of a kind Eames lounge chairs in cork. Located in the Central Ninth District, this shop is for the discerning customer. Store House reveals that furniture can be a form of architecture that is both functional and gorgeous. 933 S. Edison St., SLC, 801-655-3102, IG: @storehouseslc

Urban Vintage: Quirky designer pieces

Super-curated mid-mod furniture and accessory store with a wall of chairs stacked three rows high for you to select from. You’ll see items like a French leather sofa and dining chairs, Brutalist lamp, velvet bench and Swedish lounge and ottoman. A sincere collection of European and local art. Owner Josh is knowledgeable and super choosy about what he brings into his store and how fortunate we are to have an eclectic mix in furniture row. 177 E. 300 South, SLC, 801-674-5437, urbanvintagesaltlake.com ■

FUR BABIES WANTED

More and more Salt Lake households claim pets as their family members.

BY BABS DE LAY

A2017 survey found that 22% of Salt Lake City households reported having someone under age 18 living with them, while 38% reported owning a dog. Word has gotten out: Pets outnumber kids in Salt Lake City.

Beyond that, during COVID, pet ownership skyrocketed as many sought companionship in the form of a pet (if you could find one!). Breeders and puppy mills began charging exorbitant prices, driving would-be pet owners to local animal shelters and rescue groups, and even they ran short of pets for adoption.

It now appears that we’re back to more normal demand when it comes to pets. In fact, many owners who returned to their office jobs found they needed to rehome their COVID pets! Tsk, tsk!

To discourage residents from purchasing pets from puppy mills, in 2018, the Salt Lake City Council voted unanimously to prohibit pet stores from selling animals not obtained from an animal shelter, control agency, humane society or nonprofit rescue organization.

I reached out on social media, asking pet owners for suggestions on best ways to adopt pets ethically, and for the benefit of our furry friends. These are some of their suggestions:

Adoptions and Fostering

Check out these organizations that are working to keep adoptable pets alive and find forever homes in the community.

The Humane Society of Utah: Utah’s version of the ASPCA is located in Murray (4242 S. 300 West, Murray, 801-261-2919, utahhumane.org) where you can adopt dogs, cats, guinea pigs, rabbits and more. HSU is a no-kill shelter that offers affordable spay/neuter programs as well as affordable vaccination/euthanasia services.

Best Friends Animal Society was founded in Utah in the early 1980s. It has become the nation’s largest no-kill sanctuary for companion animals. Their main sanctuary (5001 Angel Canyon Road, Kanab, 435-688-2327, bestfriends. org) is home to almost 2,000 dogs, cats, horses, birds, rabbits and potbellied pigs living at their facilities. Best Friends also has a Salt Lake City pet-adoption center (2005 S. 1100 East, SLC, 801574-2454). The Kanab facility utilizes volunteers coming from all around the country; it also hosts more than 30,000 visitors each year.

Salt Lake County Animal Services (511 W. 3900 South, Murray, 385-468-7387, slco.org) is the largest no-kill municipal shelter in the state, offering adoptions of puppies, kittens, dogs, cats, bunnies, critters and more. They also operate a monthly Pet Crew Pantry for those struggling to

purchase pet food. In addition, they assist with online licensing and microchipping.

Other organizations that work on behalf of animal adoptions, fostering and more include:

Herding Haven rescues “unadoptable” dogs from other shelters and finds homes for dogs with special needs. (herdinghavin.org)

Ruff Haven crisis sheltering, offering temporary safe haven for companion animals in order to keep pets and people together. (ruffhaven. org)

Caws or Community Animal Welfare Society (caws.org) is a volunteer-run rescue organization. Animals are placed in a foster home until a forever home is found.

The Utah Animal Advocacy Foundation: a nonprofit specializing in the rescue, rehabilitation and placement of homeless animals. (uaaf. org)

Rescue Rovers Dog Adoptions accepts dogs from high-kill shelters and places them in foster homes to work on behaviors and prepare them for adoption. (rescuerovers.org)

Numerous breed-specific dog-rescue groups, such as Arctic Breeds Rescue for Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes (arcticrescue.com), Utah Friends of Basset Hounds, Rocky Mountain Great Dane Rescue (rmgreatdane.org).

Celestial Zoo Pet Rescue (celestialzoo.org) Created in 2018 to service the feline needs of Utah County, Celestial Zoo programs include adopting out only fixed, vaccinated and microchipped pets, a Utah County Pet Pantry and trapneuter-return programs.

Tinkers Cat Café (302 E. 900 South, SLC, 801519-2287, tinkerscatcafe.com) offers coffee, tea and sweets while you play with cats up for adoption.

Feral Cats

Like most places, we have a feral cat problem. Salt Lake County Animal Services has a trap/ neuter/return program as does the Humane Society of Utah with their Community CATNIP program. Murray Community Kats (IG: @murraycommunitykats) is a nonprofit that helps feed over 250 feral felines with donated food. West Valley City also has a feral cat program.

Give a pet a furever home: Consider pet adoption from local shelters and rescue organizations like Best Friends Animal Society.

Care and Feeding

Once you adopt your new companion(s), you’ll want to make sure they are vaccinated, licensed and microchipped in case they are lost. There are many vets who come highly recommended but it’s not possible to name them all. Just ask your friends who have pets where they take theirs for health services.

Pet owners have realized in the last few decades that dogs and cats need better food than local grocery stores offer. You’ll find natural pet food and supplies at Salt Lake locals like Healthy Pets (multiple locations, healthypetsslc. com, healthypetsmw.com); Dog’s Meow (2047 E. 3300 South, Millcreek, 801-468-0700; 866 E. 12300 South, Draper, 801-501-0818, dogsmeow.com), Pet Spawt (4898 S. Highland Drive, Holladay; 1533 W. 11400 South, South Jordan; petspawt.com), and many more. Some shops also have a dog/pet wash facility attached to their store.

Do yourself a favor and check out the Salt Lake blog dogfriendlyslc.com. You’ll find information on dog-friendly businesses and ideas on how to enjoy your pet while living your best life.

Dog Parks

Want to take your dog for walkies? Parley’s Historic Nature Park (often mistakenly called Tanner Park, 2740 S. 2700 East, SLC, slc.gov/parks/ parks-division/parleys-historic-nature-park) is the No.1 choice of those interviewed, located at the mouth of Parleys Canyon, just below the Interstate 80 freeway. It’s an off-leash park of 13 acres of trails and another 10 acres of on-leash sections open all year-round. Parleys Creek runs through it but much of it is fenced off. However, there is a small area of calm water where dogs can get their wet and shaky-shaky on. For traditional city-style dog parks, check out Herman Franks Park (1371 S. 700 East, SLC) on the east side; Pioneer Park (350 S. 300 West, SLC) downtown; and Cottonwood Park (300 N. 1645 West, SLC) on SLC’s west-side. For more information on Salt Lake City off-leash dog areas, visit www.slc.gov/parks/salt-lake-city-off-leashdog-areas

Salt Lake County has several dog-friendly areas, including the Bonneville Shoreline Trail (on leash), Millcreek Canyon (off leash, odd days; on leash even days), Emigration Canyon (off leash but watch for private property “no trespass” signs), City Creek Canyon below the water treatment plant with an off-leash designated area, and finally, Jordan River Parkway, which is on-leash.

What About Exotic Pets?

Pet shops that stock rats and mice, hamsters and gerbils, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, ferrets and hedgehogs as well s fresh and saltwater fish, reptiles and amphibians, birds and such (even tarantulas and scorpions), visit Pets and Such (3680 W. 3500 South, West Valley City, 801-966-8605, pets-and-such.com).

Pet Euthanasia

Finally, even though we strive to keep them healthy, our pets won’t live forever. There are a number of services that help with euthanizing pets, funerals and more: Dr. Dustin Durfee (435979-0017) will provide euthanasia services in your home and leave you with memorial products (urns, jewelry, paw prints). Major Street Pet Services (majorstreetpetservices) works with Dr. Durfee, offering pet funerals in a lovely Victorian cottage. Cottonwood Canyons Pet Memorial Garden (memorialutah.com) is a pet cemetery as is Best Friends Animal Sanctuary’s Angels Rest. Family Animal Services of Utah (familyanimalservices.com) offers pet cremations in Salt Lake Valley.

There are so many benefits of owning a pet: They can get you off the sofa to go for a walk; playing with them can decrease a human’s blood pressure. Pets help humans stave off loneliness and depression with their unconditional love and companionship. So—what are you waiting for? Your new friend is waiting! ■

SALT OF THE EARTH

Salt Lake’s vibrant arts community adds flavor to the capital city.

BY SCOTT RENSHAW

S altiness is one of the defining features of Salt Lake City—whether it’s the body of water that gives the city its name, or the stuff that covers our roads in the winter—so it’s not surprising that saltiness is one of the characteristics of the local arts community as well. Many of the qualities that make this place so distinctive, including its religious and political majorities, can also lead to creative people to get a little frisky, a little edgy … and yes, a little salty.

Whether the creative form is theater, dance, visual art, comedy, literature or even the symphony, you’ll find some unique perspectives that come from being an artist in this particular place, at this particular time. Not every place or every work may be salty, but there’s a flavor that’s never under-seasoned.

Theater

When it comes to local theater with a little attitude, Salt Lake Acting Co. (168 W. 500 North, SLC, 801-363-7522, saltlakeactingcompany.org) feels like the logical place to start. Its 50-yearplus history has prominently included a summer show taking aim at the quirks and foibles of local life, at times with an edge in its voice, but always with a sense of humor. The company’s season also typically includes challenging world and regional premieres, plus a family-friendly holiday production.

The Salt Lake County-operated Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center (138 W. 300 South, SLC, 385-468-1010, tickets: 801-355-2787), is a home for numerous theater and dance companies, and stages their productions. Plan-B Theatre Co. (planbtheatre.org) occupies the Studio Theatre space, with a season of offerings that in recent years has focused on world premieres by local Utah playwrights, including unique specialties like an annual old-timey-style radio show simulcast on KUER 90.1 FM radio. In the Black Box Theatre, Pygmalion Productions (pygmalionproductions.org) carries out its mission statement focusing on “the human experience through the eyes of women” by presenting a season of shows centering female-identifying characters, from female-identifying creators. Another stalwart of the local scene, Wasatch Theatre Co. (wasatchtheatre.org), uses multiple venues around the city for its wide-ranging program of more intimate plays.

Salt Lake City’s largest all-Equity company can be found at Pioneer Theatre Co. (University of Utah, 300 S. 1400 East, SLC, 801-581-6961, pioneertheatre.org), which brings large-scale production values to a wide range of offerings

in a multi-show season, typically including a mix of new plays, vintage classics and beloved musicals; it even served as the regional try-out location for the recent Tony Award-winner Shucked, before it hit Broadway. Downstairs in the same venue is the Babcock Theatre (artstickets.utah. edu), which presents performances by the University of Utah Department of Theatre.

If you’re looking for the best of Broadway’s hit musicals in their touring incarnations, head over to the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Theater (131 S. Main, SLC, 385-468-1010, saltlakecountyarts.org/venues/eccles-theater). On its stage, Broadway at the Eccles (saltlakecity. broadway.com) produces favorites like Hamilton and Wicked, as well as upcoming offerings like Annie, Girl from the North Country and & Juliet. The Eccles also hosts some of the world’s most popular touring comedians (see “Comedy”).

Outside of SLC proper, your options are almost too many to name, from Sandy’s popular and long-lived Hale Center Theatre (9900 S. Monroe St., Sandy, 801-984-9000, hct.org) to the West Valley Performing Arts Center (3333 S. Decker Lake Drive, West Valley City, 801-9655140, wvcarts.org).

Dance

The local dance scene is thriving, built on nationally respected programs at the University of Utah and Brigham Young University. Ballet West (801-869-6900, balletwest.org), which performs at the Janet Quinney Lawson Capitol Theatre (50 W. 200 South, SLC, 385-468-1010, saltlakecountyarts.org/venues/capitol-theatre), is one of America’s leading ballet companies, staging the great classical ballets, including one of the country’s first and longest-running versions of The Nutcracker, as well as revivals of historical masterpieces and new creations by innovative choreographers.

For those with more of a taste for modern dance, the Rose Wagner Center (see “Theater” above) is home to two wonderful companies: Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company (ririewoodbury. com), showcasing amazing works of modern dance, including new works by local choreographers; and Repertory Dance Theatre (rdtutah. org), dedicated to the creation, performance

Pioneer Theatre Co.’s production of Sweeney Todd

and perpetuation of modern dance works, including an extensive repertoire of classic dance treasures.

Classical Music & Opera

As we head into the heart of downtown, you’ll spot the wonderful architectural and acoustic marvel that is Abravanel Hall (123 W. South Temple). It’s the home of the Utah Symphony (801-533-6683, utahsymphony.org), which plays a full season of classical masterworks, pops performances with special guests, symphonic accompaniment to classic films and more.

The Capitol Theatre (see “Dance” above) hosts performances by Utah Opera (801-5335626), which has delighted Utahns for more than 45 years with canonical classics from Verdi, Puccini, Mozart and more, plus occasional presentations of newer works, accompanied by the music of the Utah Symphony. For classical music on a slightly smaller scale, the Gina Bachauer International Piano Foundation (bachauer.com) presents an annual piano competition and showcase performances for great pianists at the Rose Wagner Center. And at Libby Gardner Concert Hall (University of Utah, 1375 E. Presidents Circle, SLC, 801-581-6762, music.utah.edu) on the University of Utah campus, you can experience classical performances by student performers and more.

Comedy

On the west side of downtown, we find The Gateway (400 W. 200 South, SLC, atthegateway. com), an outdoor mall which offers even more than retail shopping and great dining options. It’s also the home of one of three Utah Wiseguys Comedy locations (801-532-5233, wiseguyscomedy.com), which host both the best of the local comedy scene, including open mic nights and national touring comedians. Kingsbury Hall (University of Utah, 1395 E. Presidents Circle, SLC, 801-581-7100, kingsburyhall.org) also plays host to touring comedians like Heather McMahan, as well as touring dance productions and fascinating speakers; you can also find big comedy names coming to the Eccles Theater (see “Theater,” live-at-the-eccles.com).

Film

Utah’s film community is a vital one, no doubt fueled in large part by its role as host for the annual Sundance Film Festival (festival.sundance.org), the nationally celebrated January showcase of independent film from American and international filmmakers. While Park City serves as the primary location for festival events, venues in SLC proper also host festival screenings, including the Rose Wagner Center, Megaplex Theatres (megaplextheatres.com) and the Broadway Centre Cinemas (111 E. 300 South, SLC, 801-321-0310, slfs.org). The latter is the homebase for the Salt Lake Film Society, a non-profit dedicated to the finest in film, including documentary and international features plus special programming throughout the year including opportunities to see classics on the big screen.

For a little salty slice of Utah moviegoing history, visit Brewvies Cinema Pub (677 S. 200 West, SLC, 801-355-5500, brewvies.com), which fought the good fight over censorship a few years back in a challenge to Utah liquor laws. Now, you can see new theatrical releases plus special screenings, including new work by local filmmakers.

Visual Arts

Right next door to Abravanel Hall is the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art (20 S. West Temple, SLC, 801-328-4201, utahmoca.org), with multiple gallery spaces offering a chance to experience local, regional and national artists exploring daring themes across every possible medium. On the University of Utah campus, the Utah Museum of Fine Arts (University of Utah, 410 Campus Center Drive, SLC, 801-581-7332, umfa.utah.edu) boasts a permanent collection of nearly 20,000 objects and showcases terrific touring exhibitions. Many of Salt Lake City’s other art galleries participate in a monthly Gallery Stroll (gallerystroll.org), allowing a chance to see new exhibits and meet the artists. ■

More on Salt Lake museums on p. 22 and literary arts on p. 26

KBY CAT PALMER

ris Vardanega initially caught my attention with a striking poster created for the conservation of the Great Salt Lake. Subsequently, during a conversation with the marketing director of HK Brewing, the topic of beloved queer artists arose, with Vardanega being mentioned.

Intrigued, I decided to follow their artistic journey on Instagram. I found Vardanega admires female artists such as Hilma af Klint and Frida Kahlo. Their bio describes Vardanega as “an avid birdwatcher, outdoors-person, she has a deep reverence for wild places and is continuously inspired by scientific illustration, tarot cards, printmaking, bugs, textiles and ornate cowboy boots.”

I am inspired by Vardanega’s resilience as a cancer survivor and someone managing chronic illness, all while spreading beauty and positivity. To witness an artist like Vardanega venture into new creative territories, such as ceramics, only enhances my admiration for their work. While they do love pizza, egg is their favorite food. And her favorite best girl (feline) is Norah. IG @littletinyegg, littletinyegg.com ■

COURTESY

Utah Museum of Fine Arts

Kris Vardanega

WORTH THEIR SALT

Mark your calendar for summer fun and community gatherings you simply shouldn’t miss.

COMPILED BY CITY WEEKLY STAFF

Arts Festivals

May 25-26: Moab Arts Fest

Start the summer off right with a trek to Moab’s Swanny City Park on Memorial Day weekend, and a free-admission jubilee of pottery, glass, jewelry, fine art and more, with plenty of activities for kids and adult refreshments for the grown-ups. moabartsfestival.org

June 28-30: Utah Arts Festival

The state’s biggest and most varied arts festival returns to the City & County Building and Library Square (200 East & 400 South, SLC). Immerse yourself in creativity and take in the artist booths, kids’ activities, culinary arts, urban arts, performances by local dance groups and the Fear No Film short film festival. Plus, you can always count on great music from around the country and around the world. uaf.org

Aug. 2-4: Park City Kimball Arts Festival

You really shouldn’t need an excuse to head into the mountains during the summertime, with temperatures 10-15 degrees cooler than the ones that are baking the Wasatch Front. But in case you’ve been dragging your feet, the delights of Park City’s historic Main Street being turned into an open-air showplace for visual art and music should give you the necessary nudge. kimballartcenter.org

Aug. 9-11: Craft Lake City DIY Festival

The DIY spirit has always been plentiful in Utah, and the Craft Lake City DIY Festival celebrates the “maker” spirit offering a space to display and sell handcrafted wares. You’ll find vendors for visual arts, clothing, textiles, food, personal care products and much more at the Utah State Fairpark (155 N. 1000 West, SLC). craftlakecity.com/diy-festival

Also, don’t miss: July 12-13: Utah Foster Care Chalk Art Festival at Thanksgiving Point; July 13-14: Mill Creek Festival; July 27-28: Urban Arts Festival at the Gateway

Historical & Cultural Festivals

May 17-19: Living Traditions Festival

Presented by the Salt Lake City Arts Council, this three-day free festival takes place at Washington Square/Library Square (200 East & 400 South, SLC). Celebrate the city’s diversity with more than 90 different cultures and events that promote connection through folk art. livingtraditionsfestival.com

Living Traditions Festival is set for May 17-19 in Salt Lake City

June 1-2: Utah Pride Festival

Party with the state’s LGBTQ community and their allies at Washington Square in downtown Salt Lake City. You can expect a full roster of events, along with food trucks and exhibitor booths, plus the grand parade on Sunday morning. utahpridecenter.org/festival

June 8: Utah Asian Festival

For the 47th annual event, cultures from China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and many more locales gather at the Utah State Fairpark (155 N. 1000 West, SLC) for a huge showcase of dance, martial arts, crafts, food and more. utahasianfestival.org

July 18-24: Days of ’47 Celebration

Utahns of Latter-day Saints ancestry— and even those who aren’t—celebrate the pioneers’ arrival in Utah with a rodeo, First Encampment hike, young woman’s royalty pageant, pops concert at Abravanel Hall and the big Days of ’47 Parade on July 24, for which people camp out overnight along the route from South Temple and State Street to Liberty Park. daysof47.com

July 24: Uniting Communities

Powwow 2024

Formerly the Native American Celebration in the Park, this event kicks off at Liberty Park immediately following the Days of ’47 Parade, celebrating those who were here first with an intertribal contest powwow; booths for food, arts & crafts and businesses; entertainment; a children’s play area; and more. utncoc.com

July 30-Aug. 3: Springville World Folkfest

Performing groups from 10 countries gather at Spring Acres Arts Park (620 S. 1350 East in Springville) to bring the color and excitement of traditional folk dance and music. Enjoy food from cultural food trucks. worldfolkfest.org

Aug. 3: Pacific Island Heritage Month Kick-Off

Utah’s thriving Samoan, Tongan, Fijian and Native Hawai’ian communities begin a month-long celebration of their cultures at Lodestone Park (6252 W. 6200 South, Kearns) that traditionally includes food, small businesses, community organizations, cultural booths, and performers. facebook.com/utpihm

Aug. 2-4: Ogden Pride

LGBTQ Pride activities around the country tend to take place in the month of June in recognition of the Stonewall uprising, but Ogden has always marched to its own drummer. In honor of events being planned for its 10th anniversary, Ogden Prides hopes to expand to a three-day festival at the Ogden Amphitheater (343 E. 25th St., Ogden). ogdenpride.org

Sept. 6-8: Salt Lake Greek Festival

The grounds of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church (279 S. 300 West, SLC) again host a weekend of live performances, vendors and, most importantly, plenty of amazing food. saltlakecitygreekfestival.com

Sept. 5-15: Utah State Fair

The Utah State Fairpark (155 N. 1000 West, SLC) hosts all of the traditional attractions: midway games, rides, animals, food and plenty of live entertainment, including John Fogerty and Dustin Lynch. utahstatefair.com

Also, don’t miss: June 14-16: Utah Juneteenth Freedom & Heritage Festival in Ogden; Aug. 30-31: Midway Swiss Days; Sept.14-15: Festa Italiana SLC at The Gateway

Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theater’s production of Oliver

Theater/Film Festivals

Jan. 23, 2025-Feb. 2, 2025: Sundance Film Festival

A 10-day celebration of independent American film with film screenings in Park City and Salt Lake, giving locals an opportunity to view worldclass films, sit in on film discussions and hobnob with celebrities in bars and at events. festival.sundance.org

June 20-Oct. 5: Utah Shakespeare Festival

The award-winning theater showcase in Cedar City presents a repertory of Shakespearean and contemporary plays, many in an outdoor theater. For a full list of the season’s plays and schedule, visit bard.org

July 5-Aug. 3: Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theater

Epic operas and favorites of the Broadway stage are once again on tap on Logan’s picturesque Main Street, this year including a back-to-back showing of Gianni Schicchi and Buoso’s Ghost utahfestival.org

July 26-Aug. 4: Great Salt Lake Fringe Festival

The annual showcase of experimental theater, dance, music and art gives local residents a chance to see work with an edge that might not be expected on Utah stages. greatsaltlakefringe.org

Pop Culture Convention

Sept. 26-28: FanX Salt Lake

The state’s biggest gathering of nerds, enthusiasts and other lovers of pop culture returns to the Salt Palace Convention Center (100 S. West Temple, SLC) for three days of guest stars, panel presentations and vendors. fanxsaltlake.com

Beer Festival (Our Own!)

Aug. 17-18: City Weekly 14th annual Utah Beer Festival

City Weekly’s Utah Beer Festival returns to Granary Live and Granary Square (742 S. 500 West, SLC) from 2 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 17, and Sunday, Aug. 18. Celebrate the art of brew-making and sample from among 250 local, regional, national and international beers and hard ciders. Live music and food vendors add to the festival vibes. See p. 49 for more information. utahbeerfestival.com ■

COURTESY PHOTO

Can We Get a Word In?

A festival that should not be missed: City Weekly’s 14th Annual Utah

Beer Festival

BY PETE SALTAS & BENJAMIN WOOD

Utah is known for its hot, hot summers, and nothing cools a parched throat like a chilled sample at the Utah Beer Festival! And yes, we may be partial because it’s our own. Scheduled Aug. 17-18 from 2 p.m.-8 p.m. at Granary Live (742 S. 500 West, SLC), Utah’s hoppin’est party will spread out over two city blocks in one of Salt Lake City’s hottest up-and-coming neighborhoods.

Before we dive into the details, first, a little history: It was a bit of a gamble when City Weekly launched its first Utah Beer Festival in 2010. We knew Utah had plenty of beer drinkers and that breweries were popping up all over the region. We also knew that beer festivals were very successful outside of Utah, but given Utah’s strict alcohol rules, we weren’t sure if we could make one work in the Beehive State.

It turns out that Utah had more beer drinkers than we ever imagined: We’re now hosting as many as 10,000 attendees over two days. We quickly learned how to navigate Utah’s byzantine alcohol regulations and have now grown the event from 10 vendors pouring 50 beers to over 70 vendors and more than 250 beers (and hard cider).

Beer brewing might have been a relatively new industry in 2010, but it’s become one of the increasingly vital segments of the Utah economy, not just from selling beer, but also in terms of creating local brewing jobs and hospitality jobs. It also supports Utah farmers who supply the industry.

We’re returning for a second year at Granary Live and Granary Square. This Granary district itself was in disrepair 10 years ago. With massive redevelopment and new construction, it now promises to be a residential, commercial and entertainment center for years to come. It is no surprise to us that among the businesses that helped revitalize the Granary district were three pioneering breweries—TF Brewing, Kiitos and Fisher.

The hosts at Granary Live and Utah Beer Festival are working together to bring a post-event concert to the Utah Beer Festival attendees this year. So, stay tuned to our Instagram, @utahbeerfest, and our website, utahbeerfestival.com, for more updates!

So read on to learn how to make it a brew-tiful weekend:

Get Your Passport in Advance

Find tickets to the Utah Beer Festival online at utahbeerfestival.com or at the door for day-of prices. Weekend passes and single-day entrance tickets are available, with guests able to pre-purchase their drinking passports or refill their punch passes on the premises.

Whether drinking or not, the event is restricted to guests who are age 21 or older. Beer festival passports are required for sampling, and no package sales of alcohol are permitted.

Doors open at 1 p.m. each day for VIP and Early Beer ticket holders, and at 2 p.m. for general admission. The event ends at 8 p.m. both days.

Get to the Venue

Granary Live is located at 742 S. 500 West. Transit is a convenient option, with the Trax Red, Blue and Green lines stopping less than 1 mile away on 200 West between 800 South and 900 South. The regional FrontRunner train also stops within 1 mile of Granary Live at Salt Lake Central Station.

Free bike valet service will also be available near the Utah Beer Festival entrance on 500 West (tips appreciated). Both 700 South and 800 South are striped with cycling lanes, while the 9-Line multi-use trail is located two blocks south of the event on 900 South.

For those who choose to drive, street and garage parking is available in the surrounding Granary district and adjacent neighborhoods, but 500 West will be blocked off from direct vehicle access and guests are reminded to travel responsibly. The area is also close to downtown and served by Uber, Lyft and other ride-hailing services.

Get Drinkin’

The 2024 Utah Beer Festival will feature more than 250 different beers, ciders and seltzers from more than 70 breweries, with non-alcoholic beverages also available. More than two dozen Utah brewers will be participating, representing roughly three-fourths of the local beer industry.

Get Dancin’

Granary Live’s concert stage will host several live performances during the festival, with music by popular local bands. Other entertainment includes daily trivia and events to benefit a local charity.

Pair With Mighty Fine Vittles

Enjoy tasty bites to go with your beer samples that will be available from a variety of food trucks and the Woodbine Food Hall. ■

A&E 2024 CALENDAR

WHAT’S ON? UPCOMING PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR

COMPILED BY SCOTT RENSHAW

Here’s a roundup of some of the key local arts companies, titles and dates that are confirmed for this year; information is always subject to change, so confirm with the individual organization when planning to purchase tickets.

Downtown

Ballet West

Capitol Theatre, 52 W. 200 South, SLC, 801-869-6900, balletwest.org

April 12-20: Love and War

June 5-8: Choreographic Festival VI

Broadway at the Eccles Eccles Theater, 131 S. Main, SLC, 801355-5502, saltlakecity.broadway.com

April 26-28: Come From Away

May 10-12: Annie

June 11-16: Girl from the North Country July 31-Sept. 1: Hamilton

Live at the Eccles

Eccles Theater, 131 S. Main, SLC, 801-355-2787, live-at-the-eccles.com

April 17: Neil DeGrasse Tyson

April 20: Blippi

April 21: Bill Maher

April 30: Bianca Del Rio

May 15: Derek Hough

May 18: Ira Glass

May 22: Ancient Aliens Live

May 31: Sesame Street Live June 1: Leanne Morgan

Plan-B Theatre Co.

Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center, 138 W. 300 South, SLC, 801-297-4200, planbtheatre.org

April 11-28: Bitter Lemon

PYGmalion Theatre Co.

Rose Wagner PAC, 138 W. 300 South, SLC, 801-971-4362, pygmalionproductions.org

May 3-18: Mother of the Maid

Repertory Dance Theatre

Rose Wagner PAC, 138 W. 300 South, SLC, 801-534-1000, rdtutah.org

April 11-13: Gamut

Ririe-Woodbury Dance Co.

Rose Wagner PAC, 138 W. 300 South, SLC, 801-297-4241, ririewoodbury.com

April 18-20: Ascent

Utah Opera

Capitol Theatre, 50 W. 200 South, SLC, 801-533-6683, utahopera.org

May 4-12: Thaïs

Utah Symphony

Abravanel Hall, 123 W. South Temple, SLC, 801-533-6683, utahsymphony.org

April 19-20: Jiji Plays Rodrigo’s Guitar Concerto

April 23, June 21-22: How to Train Your Dragon in Concert

April 26-27: Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G

May 17-18: Scheherezade

May 24-25: Anne Akiko Plays Fandango

Near Downtown

Kingsbury Hall

University of Utah, 1395 E. Presidents Circle, SLC, 801-581-7200, artstickets.utah.edu

April 19: University of Utah School of Dance: Alchemy

April 27: Heather McMahan

May 9-11: ’Lectric Eye

July 13: The Rocket Man Experience

New World Shakespeare Co.

Alliance Theater, 602 E. 500 South, Ste. E101, SLC, 801-719-7998, newworldshakespeare.com

May 4-18: The Merry Wives of Windsor

Aug. 16-25: All’s Well That Ends Well

Nov. 1-10: The Lion in Winter

Pioneer Theatre Co.

University of Utah, 300 S. 1400 East, SLC, 801-581-6961, pioneertheatre.org

March 29-April 13: The Lehman Trilogy

May 10-25: Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812

Salt Lake Acting Co.

168 W. 500 North, SLC, 801-363-7522, saltlakeactingcompany.org

April 10-May 5: Bald Sisters

June 26-Aug. 18: SLAC Summer Show 2024

Wiseguys Gateway

The Gateway, 190 S. 400 West, SLC, 801-532-5233, wiseguyscomedy.com

April 18-20: Noel Miller

April 25: Therapy Gecko

April 26-27: Kelsey Cook

May 2: Sammy Obeid

May 3-4: Adam Carolla

May 10-11: Nimesh Patel

May 16-19: Dave Attell

May 24-26: Brad Williams

May 28-29: Kristina Kuzmic

May 30-June 1: Trevor Wallace

June 7-8: Joe List

June 13: Alvin Kuai

June 14-16: Nick Swardson

June 16: Alfred Robles

June 20: Jeff Allen

June 27-29: Shayne Smith

July 12-13: Ms. Pat

July 19-20: Greg Warren

Aug. 16-17: Anjelah Johnson-Reyes

Aug. 30-Sept. 1: Hans Kim

Sept. 26: Corinne Fisher

Sept. 27-28: Kevin Nealon

Outside of Downtown

Desert Star Playhouse

4861 S. State, Murray, 801-266-2600, desertstar.biz

March 28-June 8: Butch Cassidy and the Sunburnt Kid

June 13-Aug. 24: Mister Act: Holy Smokes! Bless These Jokes!

Aug. 29-Nov. 9: The Lord of the Rings: Back in the Hobbit

Nov. 14-Jan. 4: Grinched: I’m Dreaming of a Green Christmas

Hale Centre Theatre

9900 S. Monroe St., Sandy, 801-984-9000, hct.org

April 22-June 8: May We All: A Country Musical

May 6-July 20: The Time Machine

July 1-Aug. 17: The Nutty Professor

July 25-Aug. 3: Musical Tribute: Elton John, Billy Joel & Friends

Aug. 19-Nov. 16: The Addams Family

Sept. 16-Oct. 19: The Magician’s Elephant

Nov. 11-Jan. 25: Disney’s Beauty & the Beast

Nov. 29-Dec. 28: A Christmas Carol

Off Broadway Theatre

12366 S. 900 East, Draper, 801-355-4628, theobt.org

April 5-27: Lore of the Rings

May 31-June 29: TBD

Aug. 2-31: The Scarlet Pimpernel

COURTESY PHOTO

Repertory Dance Theatre

Wasatch Theatre Co.

Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center, 2525 Taylorsville Blvd., Taylorsville, 801-869-4600, wasatchtheatre.org

April 22-27: The Realistic Joneses

Out of Town

Tuacahn Center for the Arts

Tuacahn Amphitheatre, 1100 Tuacahn Drive, Ivins, 800-746-9882, tuacahn.org

May 3-Oct. 4: Disney’s Frozen

May 17-Oct. 18: Anastasia

June 21-Aug. 10: Ring of Fire

July 13-Aug. 19: Jersey Boys

Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre

Utah Theatre, 18 W. Center St., Logan, 435-750-0300, utahfestival.org

July 5-Aug. 1: Little Shop of Horrors

July 10-Aug. 2: Gianni Schicchi & Buosso’s Ghost

July 11-Aug. 2: Guys & Dolls

July 12-Aug. 3: Anything Goes

July 12-Aug. 3: Cats

July 30: Verdi’s Requiem

Utah Shakespeare Festival

195 W. Center St., Cedar City, 435-586-7878, bard.org

Summer 2024 Repertory (July 18 to Oct. 5): Henry VIII, The Winter’s Tale, The Taming of the Shrew, Much Ado About Nothing, The 39 Steps, The Mountaintop, Silent Sky

Wiseguys Ogden

269 25th St., Ogden, 801-622-5588, wiseguyscomedy.com

April 19-20: Ryan Erwin

April 26-27: Andy Gold

May 3-4: Jenna Kim Jones

May 10-11: Alaina Hirschi

Wiseguys South Jordan

Jordan Landing, 3763 W. Center Park Drive, West Jordan, 801-463-2909, wiseguyscomedy.com

April 18: Bob Marley

April 19-20: Heath Harmison

April 26-27: Michael Palascak

May 3-4: Tyler Fischer

May 10-12: Todd Johnson

May 16: Tina Friml

May 17-18: Sklar Brothers ■

Can I Get A Word In?

A local comedian who really brings the ‘brine’: Alex Velluto

BY SCOTT RENSHAW

Salt Lake City is home to a thriving local comedy scene—and perhaps not surprisingly, a lot of it thrives on being a little bit salty about the “dominant local culture/religion,” or bringing the salty language that’s not always acceptable in other places. But one of my favorite Utah comedians is Alex Velluto, whose material generally stays clean and aims as many of his barbs at himself as at the world around him. In his comedy special The Big Gulp Kid, he observes that he’s not really worried about getting his identity stolen: “I’d be curious to see what someone could do with my identity if they weren’t burdened by my personality.” And as for the “security questions” used to prove your identity? “They need to ask you questions that are even more personal—questions even you don’t want to answer. … Questions that if people knew, they wouldn’t want to steal your identity: Insecurity questions.” alexvelluto.com ■

Alex Velluto

DINE

THE FUTURE OF FLAVOR

A look at Salt Lake food trends and what to look for as you dine out.

BY AIMEE L. COOK

Forget bland buffets and chain restaurant mediocrity— Salt Lake City’s culinary scene is hotter than a jalapeño popper on a July afternoon. Dive into the latest dining trends from some chefs making waves and the influencers keeping their fingers firmly on the pulse of this ever-evolving gastronomic playground.

Chefs Weigh in

Patrick LeBeau, executive chef of Bambara (202 S. Main, SLC, 801-363-5454, Bambara-slc.com) has introduced an extensive pickling program. “I wanted to complement our charcuterie program,” he says. “Any vegetable you can think of, I have probably turned into a pickle.”

Phelix Gardner, corporate chef at Pago Group (which includes Pago, Finca, Casot and Emigration Café, pagoslc.com) finds inspiration and trends by following James Beard award winners. “People are becoming a little more price-conscious since inflation has been so nuts the last few years. We are starting to see a lot more cultural comfort food represented ... pasta, pizza, burgers and salads—that’s what people are wanting right now.”

Shirley Butler, executive pastry chef at Riverhorse on Main (540 Main St., Park City, 435-6493536, riverhorseparkcity.com), creates seasonal, locally sourced desserts. “Comfort puddings are showing up quite a bit, and I have been making sticky toffee pudding since I could hold a spoon.”

Drew Kawaguchi, sushi chef at Tsunami (multiple locations, tsunamiutah.com), says the restaurant tries to cater to everyone, including those who don’t eat sushi. “We are doing a ‘crispy sushi’ now [popular in California],” he says, “which our vegetarian customers are really enjoying.”

Trends Influencers Are Tracking Girl dinners

While social media channels have taken to calling it “girl dinner”, the art of small plates dining or tapas has really taken off here. From traditional Spanish pinxtos to sharable dishes of every ethnicity, I love this dining style because you can try a lot of dishes from a restaurant and ultimately eat what would be considered a full meal while enjoying so many different flavors.

—Heather L. King

As a professional restaurant critic and food writer, I’m constantly searching out hidden gems and hot spots at home and abroad. IG @slclunches

Ski resorts are serious about food

As a contributing writer for Ski Utah and Visit Utah, I’m particularly excited to see our 15 ski resorts invest in their on-mountain menus. They’re going way beyond burgers and chips with options that could be served in the area’s finest restaurants. This is a gastronomic win for guests and an economic one for the resorts that are convincing people to go deep into their wallets as well as deep into the powder.

—Paula Colman

I like food and cooking food. I like eating other people’s food (occasionally without their permission). I like pairing food and wine. And people frequently ask me about all of the above. IG @harpo_utah

Paper vs. QR

I think I’m one of the few people who is totally fine with QR code menus rather than paper menus. It reduces clutter, waste and trips to the table for servers. I do think all establishments should have a larger-print hard copy of their menu available on request for folks with diminished eyesight or without smartphones.

Some noteworthy spots with progressive tech and/or inclusive menus include Grid City (333 W. 2100 South, South Salt Lake, 801- 906-8390, gridcitybeerworks.com) with its online menus, tons of plant-based dishes, gluten-free options.

Koyote (551 W. 400 North, SLC, 385-262-5559, koyoteslc.com) lets you order online at your table for your whole party by opening a tab to which you can add items over the course of the meal.

—Christy Gilbert I’m an eternally hungry food adventurer who really loves community—always looking for the next thing and always hoping the next thing is a sandwich with a friend. IG @fig.eats

Tip creep is real

With the price of dining out on the rise, people are noticing every little charge on their food bill, especially when it’s staring them in the face in the form of a tip button. Tip creep is real. When tipping becomes a burden, it detracts from the overall customer experience. Frustration can translate into negative reviews and impact a business’ reputation.

It’s great to see local restaurants raise base wages and incorporate gratuities into pricing, providing workers with more consistent income and shielding customers from aggressive prompts for tips. Cheryl’s Bagels (273 W. 500 South, Bountiful, cherylsbagels.com) and Three Pines Coffee (165 S. Main, SLC, threepinescoffee.com) are the most recent additions to the movement.

—Hang Wong

Hang Wong is a long-time foodie perusing the food scene in Salt Lake, always in the know and always one of the first to try the latest openings and hot spots. IG @hangwong

Ghost kitchens

Ghost kitchens allow chefs a cheaper way to bring their concepts to consumers. Lower overhead, a delivery boom and certain cooking methods are key factors for an up-and-coming culinary creative to utilize a ghost kitchen vs. a food truck. Chef Teilmann Hansen of Enigma Chef (IG @enigmachef ) works out of ComComKitchen (67 W. 1700 South, Salt Lake City, 801-694-2390, comcomkitchen.com) and prepares much of his high-end dishes using sous vide, which is not very user-friendly for a food truck, he says.

—Aimee L. Cook Food & lifestyle writer, IG @gathernoshandsavor ■

Koyote whipped tofu

THE NEW CROP

20 restaurant openings

lighting up the local dining scene.

BY ALEX SPRINGER

Despite the ravages that 2020 inflicted upon our local restaurant scene, our persistent restaurateurs continued to open some great restaurants over the past few years. If your local dinner plans require something a bit on the fresher side of things, look no farther than this list of 20 up-and-coming Utah restaurants.

Thai Better

Utah has always had some strong representation when it comes to Thai food, but there’s something clever about Thai Better’s takeoutfriendly model and adorable branding that make it stand out. Since it opened last year, it’s turned plenty of heads with its tasty curry dumplings and special curries that include pineapple, avocado and duck. 11511 S. 4000 West, Ste. 101, South Jordan, 385-297-0321, thaibetterus.com

Loco Burger

This Mexican-infused, torta-inspired burger joint made enough waves when it opened in downtown Salt Lake to fund a second location that opened late last year. The secret? Gigantic burgers with everything from grilled sausage, ham, pork loin and plenty of melty cheese. It’s rare to find a spot that embodies everything we love about burgers with everything we love about tortas, but Loco Burger has successfully cracked that code. 1702 S. Main, SLC, 801-3862875; 5470 S. 4220 West, Kearns, 801-505-8187, locoburger.com

Basta Pasteria

There aren’t many fast-casual restaurants that can boast homemade pasta, but that’s how Basta Pasteria runs its show. From rigatoni to pappardelle to gnocchi, Basta is making it all in house, and its including some high-end support like burrata and truffle should you feel indulgent during your visit. The pasta is a must here, but make sure you don’t overlook their woodfired pizza. 6157 S. State, Murray, 385-474-2093, bastapasteriaut.com

Ty Fish & Chips

What do you get when a professional sushi chef decides to shift focus to fish and chips? Magic, that’s what. Chef Ty Hoang’s understanding of seafood really shines with each

golden-brown item on the menu. Delectable fried shrimp, crispy crab balls and fried calamari are all part of the show here, but it’s all about the red snapper—fried to perfection and served with a smile. 9411 S. 700 East, Sandy, 385-274-2760, tyfishnchips.com

Lulu’s Hot Oven

Diners along the Wasatch Front have been fortunate to see a plethora of fusion restaurants open in recent years, but Lulu’s Hot Oven has been the only one brave enough to put Mexican favorites like birria and mole on a pizza—and holy smokes does it work. On top of that, Lulu’s menu also includes masterfully constructed tortas, so you really can’t lose here. 10949 S. Redwood Road, Ste. 400, South Jordan, 801-998-8219, lulushotoven.com

Forty Three Bakery

Bakeries aren’t often considered in the same league as fine dining establishments, but if they were, Forty Three Bakery would be right up there with Salt Lake’s finest. Chef Andrew Corrao has evolved his rustic, flavor-packed concept from a local ghost kitchen to one of downtown’s most gorgeous spaces. Sipping espresso while munching on carefully laminated pastry at Forty Three Bakery is one of Salt Lake’s most decadent pleasures. 733 W. Genesee Ave., SLC, 435-962-1628, fortythreebakery.com

Kumo Cafe

When seeking out desserts, it’s easy to forget about the role texture plays in how much we enjoy said desserts. For anyone looking to explore this relationship, Kumo Cafe’s souffle pancakes and fluffy crepes are excellent subjects for your research. With flavors like cookies and cream, passion fruit and creme brulee, the wobbly,

cloudlike souffle pancakes are a gorgeous experience. 3432 S. State, Ste. C, SLC, 385-528-2963, kumocafe.shop

Matchstick Bar and Grill

This West Valley restaurant has embodied the Chinese concept of chuan, a street food-inspired riff on grilled protein and veggie skewers. It’s the kind of food that lends itself to social dining. Matchstick is a great place to round up some pals and order way too many drinks and skewers. Make sure you’re adding some side dishes to the party; the tortilla-adjacent grilled bread is a great meat delivery vehicle. 2000 W. 3500 South, West Valley City, 385-227-8376, matchstickutah.com

De Los Muertos Mexican Kitchen

Once summertime graces the Wasatch Front, the patio at De Los Muertos in Sugar House will be the best place to beat the heat and indulge in some great Mexican cooking. The foundation of De Los Muertos is their Monterrey-style burritos—smothered in mole or chili verde for good measure. For variety, you can check out their breakfast burritos that are served all day. 1215 E. Wilmington Ave., Ste. 104, SLC, 801-869-1006, delosmuertos-mexican-restaurant.com

Bix Bakery and Cafe

Restaurateur Lavanya Mahate has pretty much set the tone for Indian restaurants in Salt Lake, and she recently took all that wonderful experience into the world of professional baking. She has dabbled in bakeries before, but with Bix, Mahate has really embraced the European bakery concept. Vibrant cakes, tasty pastries and coffee all await Sugar House diners who have a bit of a sweet tooth. 479 E. 2100 South, Ste. B, SLC, 385-259-0359, bixbakery.com

20 New Restaurants (continued)

Burgertory

A horror movie-themed burger joint? Yes, please. Serving up entrees like the Exorswiss and Mushrooms and Baconstein’s Monster, Burgertory leans juicily into its chosen concept and backs it up with some truly delectable burgers. Served with their thick-cut Steak Frights. While blood and guts may be thematic at Burgertory, they also have plenty of plant-based options for those vegan vampires among you. 3197 S. Redwood Road, Ste. 9, West Valley City, 385-229-4074, burgertoryslc.com

Scelto

One of Utah’s newest Italian restaurants, Scelto has quickly constructed a loyal fanbase who are clamoring for its fresh take on some classic dishes. Main dishes include scallops with pistachio bagna cauda, short rib served with a red wine jus and a risotto served with local cheese. Pair those stellar options with some house made pizza and pasta, and you’ve got a spot to keep an eye on. 849 E. 9400 South, Sandy, 385-542-3030, sceltoslc.com

Egg Break

The early risers typically don’t have a whole lot of options when it comes to satisfying eats and snazzy interior design. That was until Egg Break opened, of course. This egg-centric restaurant specializes in well-stacked breakfast sandwiches that feature all of your favorite pork products, including a bit of pastrami for good measure. In addition to savory options, Egg Break has plenty of indulgent sweets, such as brioche toast topped with berries and cream. 193 W. 2100 South Expy., South Salt Lake, 385-500-2705, eggbreakbreakfast.com

Kompas Taqueria

Making a taqueria stand out is a tricky endeavor, but Kompas Taqueria is rising to the challenge in some interesting ways. They’re serving up plenty of fusion tacos like the Korean beef and the masala chicken, but it’s their take on tacos al pastor that really make Kompas worth a visit. It’s the pineapple salsa drizzled over that perfectly cooked pork that does it; there’s plenty of bang for your buck here. 726 E. 12200 South, Draper, 385-237-3197

Baby’s Bagels

As diverse and enjoyable as Salt Lake’s local food scene is, we’ve been woefully devoid of local bagel spots. This is why Baby’s Bagels has been such a blessing. Every day the team at Baby’s whips up fresh batches of delicious bagels in-house and serves them up as breakfast sandos or loaded with plenty of lox and homemade cream cheese. Bagel fans of any description won’t want to miss this place. 204 E. 500 South, SLC, 801-613-0066, babysbagels.square.site

Koyote

The ramen scene in Utah has been evolving at a rapid pace, and Koyote represents the next step in that evolution. The menu here has remained quite faithful to its roots by serving up ramen varieties you don’t often see in Salt Lake. In addition to their signature ramen, diners can snag several street food-inspired appetizers like shioyaki saba, a crispy grilled mackerel topped with daikon and green onions. This place has got all the right moves for local ramen fans. 551 W. 400 North, SLC, 385-262-5559, koyoteslc.com

Chez Nibs

When one of your city’s most talented bakers decides to close up shop, it’s lovely to see them reopen a chocolate shop instead. Chef Romina Rasmussen recently rebranded her much-beloved bakery into more of a chocolate and confection destination—though you can still get her famous kouign amann in addition to her new treats. 212 E. 500 South, Ste. A, SLC, 801-673-8340, cheznibs.com

Roux

This contemporary American restaurant is a newcomer in Salt Lake’s celebrated Broadway neighborhood, and it’s wasting no time setting itself apart from its peers. From the homemade

focaccia offered as a bread course to the rich, Reuben-inspired pastrami with blackened cabbage, Roux is taking its cues from on-trend dishes like birria and Basque cheesecake, building an exciting menu for downtown diners. 515 E. 300 South, SLC, 385-256-1367, rouxslc.com

Alhambra Shawarma

Though Alhambra has been operating one of Utah’s most popular Middle Eastern food trucks, its new brick-and-mortar location has pushed Alhambra to step up its game a bit. Their claim to fame is their meaty shawarma, wrapped in lavash and served with plenty of dipping sauces. Alhambra also whips up a mean falafel for anyone interested in a plant-based shawarma. 3965 W. 5400 South, Taylorsville, 801-645-6959, order.toasttab.com/online/alhambrautah

El Cholo

Recently, Sugar House welcomed a legend in the field of Mexican food, and that legend is El Cholo. Originally opened in California circa 1922, El Cholo has long been a Mexican restaurant pioneer. Its arrival in Utah last year marked the first time the venerated restaurant chain moved out of state, bringing its hundredyear legacy along with it. 2166 S. 900 East, SLC, 385-426-2166, elcholo.com ■

COMFORT CRAVINGS

Five gastropubs equipped to feed body and soul.

BY ALEX SPRINGER

It’s easy to write Utah off when it comes to gastropubs, but that feels like a raw deal. We’ve got plenty of local pubs that are whipping up memorable eats in addition to serving a wide selection of local beer and craft cocktails—you just need to know where to look. Here are five pubs with menus and ambiance that will surely turn a few heads.

Garage Grill: Vroom vroom

A brewpub built by gearheads for gearheads, the Garage Grill (1122 Draper Parkway, Draper, 801-523-3339; 12547 Herriman Autorow, Herriman, 801-666-7767; thegaragegrill.com) mixes a high-octane automotive aesthetic with a creative spin on pub fare. It also serves as the dining extension of Salt Flats Brewery, so take a peek at the locally produced beer flights and craft cocktails before you pick something tasty to eat. From there, you can peruse a wellstocked menu filled with NASCAR puns and plenty of creative eats.

Among the most unexpected of these dishes are those on their well-stocked sushi menu— they have some great signature rolls like the Nitro Roll made with yellowtail, fried shishito peppers and avocado that gets topped with some ahi and spicy mayo. The sushi showstopper at the Garage Grill would be the Enzo Sushi Nachos that use crispy wonton wrappers to scoop up chunks of ahi tuna, crab salad and tobiko.

Of course, if something more grilled is your preference, the selection of burgers should not be overlooked. The Mustang, for example, adds a pile of house-smoked brisket burnt ends to a burger swimming in bourbon barbecue sauce and topped with a crispy onion ring.

The Green Pig Pub: Beer, burgers and blues

This downtown pub takes its name from its mission, which is to be an eco-friendly gastropub that accommodates any dietary style walking through its doors. The Green Pig Pub (31 E. 400 South, SLC, 801-532-7441, thegreenpigpub.com) also hosts weekly games and entertainment, including a Monday Blues Jam. Their dinner menu includes plenty of tacos—in the summertime, their Pilsner-battered fish tacos are an absolute must. On the burger side of things, the Denver Burger and its jalapeño cream cheese will knock your socks off.

Those after a more plant-based gastropub experience can check out The Green Pig’s vegan menu, which makes good use of Impossible Burgers in its street tacos and cheesesteak

sandwiches. Their vegan tiger wings tossed with honey Sriracha sauce are also excellent openers to whatever meal you’re after.

If a nice boozy brunch is more your style, then check out The Green Pig Pub on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. when their breakfast menu is in full swing. The Green Pig Breakfast evokes a classic diner feel with its two eggs, sausage, bacon, or ham and crispy hash browns, and their French toast made with challah bread is delightful.

Copper Common

Gastronomic surprises in every bite

Those looking for a gastropub that reads a bit more like fine dining are sure to enjoy Copper Common (111 E. 300 South, Ste. 190, SLC, 801-355-0543, coppercommon.com). This local nightspot is known for its oyster plates— served up in your choice of East Coast or West Coast preparation, of course—but its additional list of bar bites is every bit as luxurious. For example, the duck rillette makes expert use of fennel and apple jam turning the whole affair into a series of memorable bites. Even the deceptive fried chicken contains little gastronomic surprises that are artfully concealed by the maitake mushroom gravy.

As Copper Common’s dining menu is filled with the unexpected, their drink menu follows suit nicely. If you’re going to make oysters a focal point of the evening, consider carrying that enthusiasm over into your drink selection with the Oyster Shooter. This is a nice Laphroaig 10year scotch with a bit of absinthe and lemon that gets served up with a raw oyster of its very own. For something a bit sweeter, you can go with the Amaro Float, which comes with your choice of amaro paired with chocolate and/or vanilla soft serve.

Beer Bar: Got brat?

One of the flagship gastropubs under the Bar X banner, Beer Bar (161 E. 200 South, SLC, 385-259-0905, beerbarslc.com) is all about bratwurst—if you crave Oktoberfest year-round, this is the place for you. Their dining menu revolves around the plethora of freshly made brats that feature varieties like curry, andouille, Italian and buffalo chipotle—they even have plant-based brats like smoked apple sage if that’s more your speed. You pick a brat and then add two toppings from a list that includes kimchi, sauerkraut, chimichurri and sweet peppers, then put the whole thing on a bun, a pile of fries or a salad.

Of course, Beer Bar knows what drink best complements a wide variety of brats, and they have a huge variety of domestic and imported beers on tap—just ask your server which brew goes well with your brat of choice, and they’ll happily help you out.

London Belle: Cozy den of deliciousness

For a gastropub that themes its offerings after a checkered chapter of Utah’s past, look no farther than London Belle (321 S. Main, SLC, 801-3638888, londonbelleslc.com). Named after one of Utah’s most infamous madams of the early 1900s, London Belle leans into the old-fashioned speakeasy style of watering hole that hearkens back to our frontier heritage. The brasserie embraces its history with a modern spin, and the award-winning food is fantastic. Though the madam died in 1925, pub fare classics like Union Jack fish and chips, the Brothel Burger and Madam’s Seafood Pasta recall a bygone era.

The drink menu at London Belle also pulls no punches when it comes to honoring Utah’s houses of ill repute. The Side Piece mixes Don Julio Blanco tequila with some pineapple and egg whites with a twist of lemon, lime and agave for a frothy, tropical treat. For a stylish, tongue-incheek night out, London Belle has you covered. ■

DEREK CARLISLE

The Green Pig Pub’s Denver Burger

CREME DE LA CREME

Seventy-five of SLC’s top restaurants pulled from the 2023 Best of Utah.

BY ALEX SPRINGER, AIMEE L. COOK AND THE CITY WEEKLY STAFF.

For 33 years, Salt Lake City Weekly has published the Best of Utah, an issue that recognizes the best restaurants, menu offerings, beverages, pubs and bars along the Wasatch Front (and beyond). The rankings are based on votes received from thousands of readers. We invite you to visit our website (cityweekly.net) to review the 500+ winners from 2023. But for a taste, and to help you discover some of the city’s finest eateries, here’s a list of the top three winners in major food categories. Get yourself out there and see what’s cooking. Cheers.

Best Barbecue

1. R&R Barbeque

R&R is celebrating more than a decade of dishing up delicious ’cue and Southern comfort fare across the state. From humble beginnings and a single storefront, R&R has bulged (much like our waistbands) to 12 locations in Utah and Idaho. They’re perhaps best known for pulled pork and ribs, though the brisket tacos—made with chopped brisket, housemade BBQ sauce, coleslaw, cilantro, feta and tomatillo sauce—merit a taste. (Best of Utah) Multiple locations, randrbbq.com

2. Pat’s Barbecue

As one of Utah’s barbecue pioneers, Pat’s reputation has remained untarnished for nearly 20 years. Highlights at this legendary local joint include the burnt ends and their smoked meatloaf, but fans of any traditional barbecue eats will find something smoky and flavorful to sink their teeth into. Let’s not overlook the sides either—the baked beans are among the best you can get in the state. (Alex Springer) 155 W. Commonwealth Avenue, SLC, 801-484-5963, patsbbq.com

3. SugarHouse Barbeque

When you’re craving a bit of barbecue from the dry rub-centric Memphis school of thought, SugarHouse Barbeque is where you go. You can’t really go wrong with any of their barbecue offerings, but it’s their ribs that bring in barbecue fans from all over the valley. They’re dressed up with the restaurant’s signature dry rub and smoked to perfection every day. (AS) 880 E. 2100 South, 801-463-4800, SLC, sugarhousebbq.com

Best Breakfast

1. The Park Café

The Park Cafe has a devout following, which sometimes means a wait for breakfast. But since we know their breakfasts are worth the wait, we will wait. Their potatoes are golden nuggets of pure bliss, as are their pancakes (which can be ordered gluten free) and eggs dishes. Plus, they make the wait more manageable with the offer of free coffee, and in so doing, the wait becomes part of the dining experience. The Park Cafe simply rocks our mornings! (BOU) 604 E. 1300 South, SLC, 801-487-1670, SLC, theparkcafeslc.com

2. Eggs in the City

Restaurants that dedicate themselves to breakfast food are an elite group, and Eggs in the City is no exception. Based on the restaurant’s name, you don’t want to miss out on any of their famous Benedicts, but the options don’t end there. Classics like biscuits and gravy, breakfast burritos and fresh cinnamon swirl pancakes will also give you plenty of breakfast bang for your buck. (AS) 2795 S. 2300 East, 801-581-0809, Millcreek, eggsinthecityslc.com

3. Roots Cafe

If you’re after breakfast with a sophisticated spin, you’ll want to check out Roots Cafe. Their menu is full of breakfast all-stars, but they like to prepare them with a bit of seasonal flair. If you like something sweet for breakfast, you may want to dig into their apple-pecan cranberry bread pudding French toast—just make sure you aren’t planning on eating anything else for the rest of the day. (AS) 3474 S. 2300 East, Millcreek, 801-277-6499, rootscafeslc.com

Best

Chinese

1. Mandarin

The perennial winner of Best of Utah’s Best Chinese category, Mandarin has a rich history of awards and accolades almost as extensive as the flavors coming out of the kitchen. The Greek American Skedros family has been operating Mandarin since 1977 and cultivated a talented team of culinary chefs to provide Utahns with an unforgettable dining experience. Mandarin serves the traditional classics, as well as creative monthly specials. (BOU) 348 E. 900 North, Bountiful, 801-298-2406, mandarinutah.com

2. Red Maple Chinese Restaurant

Red Maple has long been a contender for Utah’s best Chinese cuisine because it’s consistent and has a little something for everyone. You’ve got your traditional lunch specials like pon pon chicken and General Tso’s chicken served alongside one of the finest dim sum menus available on the Wasatch Front. The Red Maple team has always worked hard to deliver a memorable experience for Chinese food fans, and they have yet to disappoint. (AS) 2882 W. 4700 South, Taylorsville, 801-747-2888, redmaplechinese.com

3. Dragon Diner

For many local diners, Dragon Diner was the place that helped them fall in love with Sichuan-style Chinese food. From their Sichuan lo mein to their mapo tofu, this takeout/delivery-only spot has helped Utahns experience the spicy, smoky and flavorful bouquet that comes from Sichuan cuisine. They’ve also got the market cornered on familiar items like beef with broccoli and potstickers, which have locals raving. (AS) 1331 E. 3900 South, Millcreek, 801-272-9333, thedragondiner.com

Red Maple

DINING BEST OF UTAH

Best Fine Dining

1. Table X

Fine dining lives and dies by its ability to set its own pace while keeping up with culinary trends, and Table X has always been a notable example of that maxim. From its impeccable interior design to its ever-evolving menu, Table X never fails to find new and interesting ways to excite local diners. (BOU) 1457 E. 3350 South, Millcreek, 385-528-3712, tablexrestaurant.com

2. Urban Hill

After only a few years in operation, Urban Hill has become one of Utah’s most buzzed-about restaurants. Some locals will tell you that Urban Hill’s successful pedigree is what gives the place its charm, but others will cite the restaurant’s impeccable, European-inspired menu. Either way, Executive Chef Nick Zocco has already gotten recognition from the James Beard Foundation, so you know they’re doing something right. (AS) 510 S. 300 West, Ste. 100, SLC, 385-295-4200, urban-hill.com

3. Log Haven Restaurant

Beloved by old-guard foodies and new food enthusiasts alike, Log Haven has managed to achieve a perfect balance between noteworthy food and a gorgeous atmosphere. In addition to the local accolades Log Haven receives each year, it’s been recognized by national media like Wine Spectator and USA Today for its contributions to Utah’s dining scene. Log Haven has long been the first choice for anyone after a romantic destination dinner in the foothills of our lovely Wasatch mountains. (AS) 6451 E. Millcreek Canyon Road, Millcreek, 801-272-8255, log-haven.com

Fine dining at Urban Hill

Best French

1. La Caille

Located within the pastoral ambiance of a 23acre countryside surrounding a turreted stone French-country chateau, La Caille offers a classy getaway for exceptional French dining. A European tradition, the charcuterie board includes assorted Utah meats and cheeses, Featured main courses include mouthwatering temptations such as bouillabaisse, cherrywood smoked salmon and crusted sea bass. Try topping dinner off with a sundae, cheesecake or refreshing sorbet. A walk around the picturesque grounds is another fitting finale. (BOU) 9565 S. Wasatch Boulevard, Sandy, 801-942-1751, lacaille.com

2. Courchevel Bistro

Named after Park City’s French sister city, Courchevel is one of the best ways to experience traditional French and European cuisine locally. Executive chef Clement Gelas has conceptualized the menu to embody what he loves about France’s Savoie region, which he originally called home. From the coq au vin to the duck confit pasta, fans of classic European cuisine will find plenty to love about Courchevel. (AS) 201 Heber Ave., Park City, 435-572-4398, courchevelbistro.com

3. Franck’s Restaurant

While Franck’s is easy to miss hidden among the trees at the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon, it’s hard to go anywhere else for dinner once you know where it is. Perhaps best known for its Tuesday Tasting Menu which allows Chef Robert Perkins to let his imagination run wild for an evening, Franck’s has become Utah’s gold standard for Frenchinspired cuisine. (AS) 6263 S. Holladay Boulevard, Holladay, 801-274-6264, francksfood.com

‘Lecker’ (delicious!) German fare at Siegfried’s Delicatessen

Best German

1. Siegfried’s Delicatessen

Serving up everything from spaetzle to black forest cake, Siegfried’s Delicatessen has long been our go-to for everything German, and it continues to impress. Whether you’re getting some delicious grilled brats and sauerkraut from their cafe or simply shopping for some imported knockwurst, you’ll find a little piece of Germany wherever you look. (BOU) 20 W. 200 South, SLC, 801-355-3891, siegfriedsdelicatessen.com

2. Bohemian Brewery

Bohemian Brewery offers traditional Bavarian dishes like schnitzel, paprikash and pierogies, but it’s the German hunting lodge aesthetic that has put this restaurant and brewery on the map. There’s an old-school appreciation of the classics that comes through with every dish Bohemian Brewery serves up, and the freedom to enjoy these eats with a gigantic stein of their signature beer makes your meal that much more memorable. (AS) 94 E. 7200 South, Midvale, 801-566-5474, bohemianbrewery.com

3. Ice Haus

German food has always been synonymous with pub food, so it’s fun to see Ice Haus repurpose some German classics into their bar food-centric menu. For example, the German corndog, bacon-wrapped brat bites and German nachos feature bratwurst reimagined into some classic American pub fare. It’s all made with a deep love and appreciation of its culinary roots, making Ice Haus a must for fans of German cuisine. (AS) 7 E. 4800 South, Murray, 801-266-2127, icehausbar.com

WOODBINE FOOD HALL

DINING BEST OF UTAH

Best Greek

1. Manoli’ s

Even a flood that kept the restaurant shuttered for several months this year couldn’t stop Manoli’s from becoming a James Beard Award semifinalist and earning the 2023 Best of Utah title of Best Greek Food. Maybe it’s the meze, a seasonal assortment of shareable bites ranging from vegetarian to meat to seafood, or the warm loukoumades with spiced honey syrup, but one thing’s for certain—you haven’t truly tried Greek food until you’ve tried it here. (BOU) 402 Harvey Milk Blvd., Ste. 2, SLC, 801-532-3760, manolison9th.com

2. The Other Place Restaurant

Since 1986, The Other Place Restaurant has been providing sumptuous, diner-style breakfasts to downtown denizens, but it’s perhaps best known for its traditional Greek cuisine. Everything from pastichio to dolmathes can be found in the cozy confines of this local gem. Those who like a bit of fusion with their breakfast will want to check out the gyro omelet, which converts your favorite Greek sandwich into a fluffy omelet. (AS) 469 E. 300 South, SLC, 801-521-6567, theotherplacerestaurant.com

3. Greek Souvlaki

It’s thought that this local Greek establishment first brought the gyro to the Wasatch Front when it opened in the early 1970s. Over the years, Greek Souvlaki has become the first name in fast Greek eats—all those years making delicious gyros have certainly paid off. This restaurant remains prominent in Salt Lake’s dining scene because of its consistently tasty Greek classics. (AS) Multiple locations, greeksouvlaki.com

Best Indian

1. Mumbai House

Nearly 8,500 Google reviews and 4.9 stars don’t lie, Mumbai House (formerly Salt Lake’s Bombay House) is Utah’s go-to for golden samosas,

‘Htenia’ seared scallops at Manoli’s Greek Restaurant

creamy saag aloo and tender chicken tikka ma sala. Aiming to please plant-based friends and meat lovers? Choose from an extensive list of vegan and vegetarian options (try the pineapple tofu) or carnivore classics like rogan josh, lamb vindaloo and butter chicken. Take your dish to the next level with refreshing cucumber raita with house-made yogurt. (BOU) 2731 E. Parleys Way, SLC, 801-581-0222, mumbaihousecuisine.com

2. Bombay House, Provo Provo’s top-tier Indian restaurant is well-known to everyone on the Wasatch Front—if you’re looking for traditional Indian classics in a romantic setting, Bombay House is usually at the top of your list. The team at Bombay House has honed their tandoori skills for years, and the variety on hand is enough to tantalize any palate. (AS) 463 N. University Ave., Provo, 801-373-6677, bombayhouse.com

3. Himalayan Kitchen

While our local Nepalese experts specialize in those adorable, meat-stuffed momos, their Indian options are equally adored by locals. For a dish that has no shortage of drama, you can’t go wrong with the Kathmandu Tandoori, which combines tandoori chicken and prawns with chicken and lamb tikka masala. Of course, they have smaller versions of these delectable favorites, but why not try them all at once? (AS) Multiple locations, himalayankitchen.com

Best Italian

1. Caffé Molise

Caffé Molise is that distinctive trattoria you take your friends to when they visit Salt Lake. As you pass through its art-filled dining areas and garden patio, you’ll be greeted by the wafting aromas of Northern Italian cuisine and the fresh dishes of the Molise region of Italy. While it’s all delicious, the butternut-squash ravioli is truly out-of-this-world comfort and richness. It’s an added bonus that BTG Wine Bar is located beneath the eatery, and

caffemolise.com

2. Sicilia Mia

A restaurant that mixes the sophisticated atmosphere of fine dining with the welcoming, friendly service one would expect from a neighborhood bistro, Sicilia Mia has a little bit of everything. Their housemade pastas include familiar dishes like lasagna and ragu, but they’re always served up with a bit of unexpected flair. For the drama queen at your table, consider ordering up the signature carbonara to see it finished off in a flaming wheel of Parmigiano-Reggiano. (AS) 4536 S. Highland Drive, Holladay, 801-274-0223, siciliamiaristorante.com

3. Valter’s Osteria

The late Valter Nassi’s legacy lives on with the top-notch service and showstopping menu on display at Valter’s Osteria. This is a place that is packed from open to close, and not once have the servers missed an opportunity to make diners feel like they’re the only ones in the restaurant. Pair that with a tableside presentation and an excellent wine list and you’ve got an instant classic. (AS) 173 W. Broadway, SLC, 801-521-4563, valtersosteria.com

Best Japanese

1. Takashi

Takashi is the ultimate Japanese culinary thrill ride in Downtown SLC. Sushi becomes an adventure, and each roll is a mini exploration of taste. The vibrant atmosphere and attentive service only add to the delight. Whether you’re a sushi connoisseur or a novice, Takashi’s fusion of flavors and playful creativity guarantees a memorable, fun-filled dining experience that’s second to none. If sushi is not your thing, the braised pork ribs will have you coming back for more! (BOU) 18 W. Market St., SLC, 801-519-9595, takashisushi.com

DEREK CARLISLE

JOHN TAYLOR

Caffé Molise’s polenta

DINING BEST OF UTAH

2. Sapa Sushi Bar & Asian Grill

There are plenty of sushi restaurants that will include a few Japanese dishes as an afterthought, but Sapa excels on both fronts of its menu. Their sushi game can hang with the other metro-area greats, but their noodles, short ribs and curries are all thoughtfully crafted onsite—no matter what you get, you’re in for some excellent Japanese fare. (AS) 722 S. State, SLC, 801-363-7272, sapabarandgrill.com

3. Kyoto Japanese Restaurant

With over thirty years of operation, Kyoto brings a sense of seniority to Utah’s Japanese food scene. With that seniority comes an unshakeable confidence in their dishes, each of which has stood the test of time. From their fresh and flavorful freshwater eel donburi to a solid roster of sushi, nigiri and sashimi, the subtleties and nuance of traditional Japanese cooking are well-represented at Kyoto. (AS) 1080 E. 1300 South, SLC, 801-487-3525, kyotoslc.com

Best Korean Barbecue

1. KOU-Korean BBQ Of Utah

The Korean barbecue experience is simply incredible, and it doesn’t get better than KOU. Their lunch and dinner all-you-can-eat options are affordable (under $33) and offer samples of premium beef, angus brisket, pork and signature side dishes. Korean barbecue, where patrons grill the meat themselves on a tabletop grill, is a fun date night experience or outing with friends and family. (BOU) 7157 S. State, Midvale, 801-996-8415, thekou.com

2. The Angry Korean

The Angry Korean made a name for itself with a menu that blends traditional Korean comfort food like bulgogi with amazing fusion concepts like the Korean cheesesteak sandwich. It’s this type of creativity that has kept diners coming back, and it seems like they’re always adding new surprises to the menu. Fans of Korean food will want to keep this place on their radar. (AS) Multiple locations, theangrykorean.com

3. Ombu Grill

Embracing the Korean culinary practice of providing a wide range of prepared proteins, veggies and sides, Ombu offers an all-you-can-eat concept that has made it a popular destination for fans of Korean food. Ombu boasts over fifty different options and a friendly staff that will help guide you through the Korean barbecue process if you’re new to the game. (AS) Multiple locations

Best

Latin American

1. Arempa’ s

Ah, the overstuffed glory of Arempa’s signature dish. It’s almost as if they have an ongoing dare to see how many fillings they can fit into each arepa they serve. Not that anyone is complaining—every juicy, savory mouthful is pure dynamite. Arempa’s also provides a taste of other Venezuelan dishes such as cachapas, empanadas, patacon and pabellon. For the best results, plan a latenight visit after some bar hopping. (BOU) Multiple locations, arempas.com

2. Papito Moe’ s

Thanks to Papito Moe’s, locals have come to understand the healing power of a good mofongo. This deceptively simple Puerto Rican dish made from mashed plantains, garlic sauce and a bit of chicharron for good measure is delightfully comforting. Whether you get this served on its own or along with the restaurant’s wide variety of grilled proteins, you’re getting something out of this world. (AS) 7786 S. 5600 West, Ste. 101, West Jordan, 385-529-5462, papitomoes.com

3. Facil Taqueria

Utah diners love a taqueria that provides a bit of fusion on their tortilla, and Facil Taqueria is always up to that challenge. Their Nashville hot chicken tacos, for example, combine Mexican escabeche with locally sourced hot honey for a bite that simply transcends cultural boundaries. If tacos aren’t your thing, try the enormous, glazed pork belly burrito—just make sure you’re not planning on eating anything else for the rest of the day. (AS) 4429 S. 2950 East, Holladay, 801-878-9969, faciltaqueria.com

Best Mexican

1. Red Iguana

There’s a reason Red Iguana always dominates this category, and it’s not just the mole. OK, maybe mole has a lot to do with it, but you have to admit this place completely nails the marriage between good food and good vibes every time you visit. It’s one of the few local places that is worth waiting in line for. (BOU) Multiple locations, rediguana.com

2. La Casa Del Tamal

Long before birria tacos became an Instagram-worthy food trend, La Casa Del Tamal was on the scene. Their beef birria tacos have been the industry standard for these gooey, dippable tacos. As the name implies, this spot is also known for its signature tamales made with everything from rojos de puerco and mole poblano (AS) 2843 S. 5600 West, Ste. 140, West Valley City, 385-266-8729, lacasadeltamalutah.com

3. Chile-Tepin

The menu at Chile-Tepin contains plenty of Mexican favorites, but the restaurant’s ability to infuse their menu with a vibrant life of its own is what puts this spot on the list. From the service to the decor, Chile-Tepin creates an upbeat vibe that is inescapable. For dishes that truly exemplify the Chile-Tepin vibe, check out their sizzling fajitas or their gooey chile relleno. (AS) 307 W. 200 South, SLC, 801-883-9255, chile-tepin.com

NIKI CAHN

COURTESY PHOTO

Red Iguana is a perennial winner for Best Mexican.

Arempa’s is home to the Best Latin American cuisine.

Serving American Comfort Food

DINING BEST OF UTAH

Best Middle Eastern

1. Mazza

Looking for an old-school drive-in?

Hire’s Big H is the place!

Gourmandise world-class pastry

For over 20 years, Mazza’s Middle Eastern cuisine has left its mark on the Salt Lake dining scene. The dishes—falafel, shawarma, kebabs, dips and salads—use only fresh ingredients and all-natural meats. Our faves have to be the dolmas, the dips and any of their lamb dishes. Mazza’s Middle Eastern beer and wine selections are among the largest in the U.S. Can you tell we love Mazza? (BOU) 1515 S. 1500 East, SLC, 801-484-9259, mazzacafe.com

2. Laziz Kitchen

What’s in a name, you ask? “Laziz” means “tasty and lighthearted” in Lebanese, and that accurately defines the experience you’ll have dining in the restaurant or taking their thoughtful food to go. Every satisfying bite is delicious and friendly, like a warm hug for your palate after a long day. Traditional favorites like muhammara, hummus and beet dip will have you swooning for more. (Aimee L. Cook) Multiple locations, lazizkitchen.com

3. Afghan Kitchen

This restaurant serves up authentic Afghan dishes exploding with flavor. Each dish sings with warm spices like cardamom and coriander, balanced by fresh herbs and tangy yogurt. The melt-in-yourmouth mantu dumplings, filled with seasoned ground beef and caramelized onions, are a must-try. Tasty kebabs, marinated in aromatic spices, sizzle on the grill, leaving a hint of smoky tastes on your palate. Don’t miss the borani banjan fried eggplant appetizer, the lamb shank mughuli or qabuli palow, rice studded with raisins, carrots and nuts, each bite a celebration. Friendly service and vibrant decor transport you to Kabul’s bustling streets. (ALC) 3142 S. Main, SLC, 385-229-4155, afghan-kitchen.com

Best

Old-School Drive-in

1. Hires Big H

While the days of carhops and poodle skirts are moving farther and farther away from us, it’s nice to visit a place like Hires Big H to recapture some of the Happy Days vibes. Even for those not after a sense of nostalgia— borrowed or otherwise—the burgers, sides and shakes at Hires will always do the trick. (BOU) Multiple locations, hiresbigh.com

2. Iceberg Drive Inn

This iconic eatery has been serving up the best creamy, dreamy shakes in all the land for the past 60 years. Grilled burgers, handcut and breaded onion rings with homemade fry sauce, of course, and the drive-in classic, tater tots. It’s fast food, yes, but it’s a legend, a memory maker, a taste of Americana that never gets old. (ALC) Multiple locations, icebergdriveinn.com

3. Woody’s Drive-In

Everyone still loves a carhop, right? Woody’s is keeping it real with the nostalgic food and car service. Bite into a burger—a symphony of perfectly melted cheese, crisp lettuce, pickle, tomato and fry sauce—a classic that’ll make you feel like a kid again when calories didn’t count. Onion rings, handbattered and golden, are pure, crunchy bliss. Get yours with marinara for dipping. Fries? Forget fancy; these are thick-cut champions begging to be dunked. And for you healthconscious types, the chicken Caesar salad should do. (ALC) 6172 S. 1300 East, Murray, 801-266-6934, woodysdrivein.com

Best Pastry 1. Gourmandise

Taking their cues from the annals of classic French pastry, Gourmandise has established itself as a serious destination for fans of baked goods. Their expert use of butter, chocolate, custard and fresh fruit simply makes every pastry on their shelf shine just a little brighter. In addition to their top-notch pastry game, each Gourmandise location is a warm, welcoming place to chill out and enjoy all those flavors and textures on display. (BOU) Multiple locations, gourmandise.com

2. Fillings & Emulsions

Step into the realm of edible art. Forget your average croissants—here, pastries are meticulously crafted by the hands of a Cuban maestro. Each creation is a visual feast. Delicate guava pasteles burst with guava’s sweet-tart embrace, while the various macarons are soft and subtle with a fluffy filling. Boldly flavored meat pies explode with creamy richness. But it’s the artistry that absolutely stuns. Chocolate disks with a precise, intricate design embellish special cakes, which are almost too pretty to eat. (ALC) Multiple locations, fillingsandemulsions.com

3.

Délice Bakery & Café

An authentic taste from southern France is what awaits you here. You are immediately drawn to the pastry counter’s vibrant display of buttery croissants, jewel-toned macarons and delicate fruit tarts. Each bite is a burst of flavor, whispering of passion born by a cuisinier and pâtissier duo. Indulge in the quiche Lorraine, its crust flaky and golden, the filling rich and savory. Then, surrender to the pain au chocolat, its layers whisper-thin, the chocolate heart molten perfection. (ALC) 2747 S. State, SLC, 801-953-1910, delicebakeryslc.com

JOHN TAYLOR

JOHN TAYLOR

LEGENDARY FOR A REASON

Downtown - Cottonwood - South Jordan

DINING BEST OF UTAH

Best Romantic Dinners

1. Log Haven Restaurant

Log Haven is a love story in the making. Located in a historic log mansion in the Wasatch National Forest, Log Haven offers an intimate dining experience that stirs the soul. The warm glow of candlelight dances on wooden beams, creating an enchanting ambiance. When it comes to romantic dinners, Log Haven has long been the ultimate destination for lovebirds seeking an unforgettable evening. Nature is delicious. (BOU) 6451 Mill Creek Canyon Road, SLC, 801-272-8255, log-haven.com

2. La Caille

Since opening its doors in 1975, La Caille has been a bastion of quaint country-French elegance. Delight in the locally sourced fare and homegrown produce, allowing each dish to be served at peak freshness. Try the escargots à la Bourguignonne before your main course for an added culinary experience. (ALC) 9565 Wasatch Blvd., Sandy, 801-942-1757, lacaille.com

3. Valter’s Osteria

This fine-dining Italian restaurant is as iconic in the Salt Lake City food scene as its late founder, Valter Nassi. Dishes are perfectly executed, and the service is top-notch. Offerings are reminiscent of an Italian grandmother’s home cooking with a dash of modern elegance. Try the Pollo Nassi for comfort or the Lamia Cotognata for a medley of flavor. (ALC) 173 W. 300 South, SLC, 801-521-4563, valtersosteria.com

Best Salt Lake Valley Pizza

1. Bricks Corner

Anyone who has indulged in Detroit-style deepdish pizza without heading out of state owes a tip of the cap to Bricks Corner. Not only does this local favorite serve up plenty of traditional recipes, but its signature pies like the Spam-tossed Polynesian Pie and the veggie-friendly Roots Pie bring a touch of gourmet flair to this transcendent pizza joint. (BOU) 1465 S. 700 East, SLC, 801-953-0636, brickscornerslc.com

Bricks Corner Detroit style pizza is the locals’ choice.

2. The Pie Pizzeria

For over 40 years, the crew at this pizzeria has been tossing pizza and pleasing the palates of their loyal customers. Guests delight in crafting their dream pies, selecting an eclectic array of toppings, from succulent meats to fresh produce and seafood. (ALC) Multiple locations, thepie.com

3. Via 313 Pizza

Serving up Detroit-style pizza with a social conscience. The pizza creatives at Via 313 bring the pizza with some of the most daring combinations. From dill pickle to lobster, their one-of-a-kind monthly pizza features offer scrumptious tastes that give back a portion of the proceeds to a nonprofit. (ALC) Multiple locations, via313.com

Best Seafood

1. Current Fish & Oyster

With a menu that’s innovative, contemporary and honed through extensive research, Current selects and prepares the freshest seafood from regional America. We feel like their entire menu is award worthy, but you can’t go wrong with the oysters, ceviche, or the cooked-toperfection scallops. They may have won best seafood— but save room for dessert because where else can you taste powdered olive oil?! (BOU) 279 E. 300 South, SLC, 801-326-3474, currentfishandoyster.com

2. Market Street Grill & Oyster Bar

Craving a taste of the sea with a side of tradition? Dive into Market Street Grill’s heritage-rich seafood spread, where every bite takes you on a nostalgic sail through 1980s elegance. The seafood options are abundant here, but they might have the best Seafood Louie salad in town. (ALC) Multiple locations, marketstreetgrill.com

3. Kimi’s Chop & Oyster House

Don’t let the name fool you; there are plenty of delicious dishes beyond chops and oysters at Kimi’s. But if seafood is where it is at for you, try the Toast Smögen; it’s a smorgasbord of seafood in one bite. You also can’t go wrong with the caviar onion dip and pommes frites. (ALC) 4699 S. Highland Dr., Holladay, 801-946-2079, kimishouse.com

Look for the best seafood at Current Fish & Oyster.

Best Soul Food

1. Sauce Boss Southern Kitchen

Before Sauce Boss came along, it was hard to make the distinction between soul food and Southern cooking. Sure, the two often overlap, but nothing quite drives the concept of soul food home as hard as a pile of Golden Splendor or some fried catfish from Sauce Boss. Just make sure you haven’t eaten in a few days before you take this journey— soul food tastes best when it’s served in massive quantities. (BOU) 877 E. 12300 South, Ste. 203, Draper, 385-434-2433, saucebosssouthernkitchen.com

2. The Bayou

The scent of rich, seasoned Cajun cuisine cannot be overstated when you enter this eatery. Sure, they have a great standard bar food menu, but for the more adventurous palate, try the alligator cheesecake appetizer, a savory dish with alligator sausage, or the gumbo fries topped with crawfish. Beer lovers founded the Bayou, so rest assured they will have what you crave to quench that thirst (ALC) 645 S. State, SLC, 801-961-8400, utahbayou.com

3. Taste of Louisiana

Step into a culinary journey with the Taste of Louisiana, where the Southern charm of seafood gumbo and baked cheese grits are alive and thriving in Utah’s food scene. Savor the rich, wellseasoned flavors of Louisiana—each dish a comforting echo of entrée with Louisiana roots yet tailored to modern tastes and served right here in the heart of Utah since 2016 by Army veteran Jerrell Carter. (ALC) Woodbine Food Hall, 545 W. 700 South, SLC, 801-332-9737, tasteoflouisianautah.com

NIKI CHAN

DEREK CARLISLE

DINING BEST OF UTAH

Best Steakhouse

1. Ruth’s Chris Steak House

The first iteration of Ruth’s Chris Steak House opened in 1965, and it’s set America’s standard for premium steak houses ever since. The a la carte menu is ideal for those wishing to sample a few of their delicious sides (we recommend the sweet potato casserole) to pair with their choice of protein. It is understood that each cut is USDA Prime and comes piping hot straight from the kitchen to your table. (BOU) 275 S. West Temple, SLC, 801-363-2000, ruthschris.com

2. Spencer’s for Steaks and Chops

Step into this dark-wood steakhouse famous for its USDA Prime, Wagyu and dry aged steaks cooked to your specifications. Whether you crave a robust ribeye or a delicate filet mignon, prepare for one of the city’s finest meals. Don’t sleep on the seafood or the award-winning wine list. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. (ALC) 255 S. West Temple, SLC, 801-238-4748, spencersslc.com

3. Hoof & Vine

Don’t underestimate this finer dining experience out in the ‘burbs. Touted as a “modern American steakhouse,” Hoof & Vine is brought to us by the same owners as another fine dining establishment, Tiburon. This eatery serves dry-aged meats, signature cocktails and an excellent selection of wines. The menu changes often, offering cleverly constructed main dishes and scratch-made desserts. Watch for their affordable wine-pairing dinners hosted monthly. (ALC) 7680 S. Union Park Ave., Midvale, 801-569-4645, hoofandvine.com

To taste the best sushi in Utah, try Takashi’s spider roll.

Best Sushi

1. Takashi

Takashi is our sushi sanctuary in the city of salt, where every roll is a tantalizing work of edible art (try the Caribbean, the Spider, or the Surf & Snow). And there are more than rolls here; the sashimi must be tasted—so let your server guide you along on a delicious adventure to taste the specials or ask to be served omakase (leave it up to the chef). (BOU) 18 W. Market St., SLC, 801-519-9595, takashisushi.com

2. Sapa Sushi Bar & Asian Grill

Thinking outside the traditional Asian fusion/sushi box and offering delicious and creative dishes at an affordable price sets Sapa Sushi Bar & Asian Grill apart. Try the Baked Dynamite, a delightful concoction for scallops, calamari, shrimp, mushrooms, and onions baked in a spicy mayo and unagi sauce. The vibe in the restaurant is fun and welcoming; the exterior is an architectural feat. (ALC) 722 S. State, SLC, 801-363-7272, sapabarandgrill.com

3. Tsunami Restaurant & Sushi Bar

Experience the art of sushi at Tsunami Restaurant and Sushi Bar, where every dish is a masterpiece crafted with fresh fish flown in daily. Local sushi chefs have elevated Utah’s palate with their creative creations and Asian-inspired dishes since opening in Sugar House in 2002. Other offerings include rice bowls, chicken katsu and Tsunami baby back ribs. (ALC) Multiple locations, tsunamiutah.com

Sawadee Thai Restaurant voted No. 1 by readers.

Best Thai

1. Sawadee Thai Restaurant Sawadee reigns as one of SLC’s favorite Thai establishments, and for good reason. You can not only get your favorite comfort dishes like heaping plates of pad thai and pad see ew, or steaming bowls of tom kha, but rotating chef’s specials to get a real taste of Thai cuisine. Look out for crispy duck dishes and seafood splendors full of every kind of seafood you could desire in a bowl. (BOU) 754 E. South Temple, SLC, 801328-8424, sawadeethaiutah.com

2. Tuk Tuk’ s Pineapple fried rice and Thai chicken wings are just a few of the favorite things at Tuk Tuk’s. Family traditions and recipes that have been passed down make each dish sing authentically with bold flavor- a definite taste treat for the consumer. (ALC) 2222 W. 3500 South B7, West Valley City, 385-227-8347, tuktuks.co

3. Skewered Thai Authentic dishes served with fresh ingredients and traditional Thai flavors make this eatery a fan favorite. The selection of curry dishes is also unmatched, with additions like pineapple curry and pumpkin curry. Save room for dessert—the fried banana with ice cream is the stuff of cravings. (ALC) 575 S. 700 East, SLC, 801-364-1144, skeweredthai.com

Best Vegan

1. Vertical Diner Utah restaurants are upping their vegan game, but this eatery makes vegan food the star of the show. You’ll be wowed by vegan plays on classic dishes that are found with appetizers, wraps, salads, sandwiches and burgers. Breakfast options are in abundance and the beverage program (wines, spirits and beers) is far better than a lot of bars in town. Nearby construction and COVID may’ve conspired to ding business, but Vertical has hung in there. (BOU) 234 W. 900 South, SLC, 801-484-8378, verticaldiner.com

2. Buds

Forget bland rabbit food! This vegan joint overflows with love for both animals and your taste “buds.” Every bite sings with homemade passion, starting with the melt-in-your-mouth BBQ veggie chicken. Forget processed “meats” here; creativity reigns supreme. Each creation is a revelation; proving plant-based doesn’t mean flavorless. This little shop proves compassion has flavor, and one bite will leave you wanting more. (ALC) 509 E. 300 South, SLC, budsslc.com

DEREK CARLISLE

DEREK CARLISLE

tradition ...tradition

3. Zest Kitchen & Bar

House-made “meats” sizzle creatively, Tandoori (jackfruit)tacos dance with spice, and the mushroom risotto is the perfect combo of rich and savory. Craft cocktails, like the beet sangria or the Caveat made with Apple Whiskey, elevate the experience. Each sip is an explosion, perfectly paired with your plant-based plate. It’s vegan done right, a vibrant celebration of taste and compassion, leaving you wanting more (and maybe a nap for that food coma!). (ALC) 275 S. 200 West, SLC, 801-433-0589, zestslc.com

Best Vietnamese

1. Mi La-Cai Noodle House

Tuck into a curtained booth with a warm, fragrant bowl of pho, a cup of toasty genmaicha tea and a side of egg rolls, and you couldn’t feel further from SLC’s busy State Street. For nearly 30 years, La Cai’s been the place to get one’s Vietnamese food fix. Service never skips a beat, dishes are always consistent (try the chicken lettuce wraps and the walnut shrimp), and the takeout game? Well worth the drive. (BOU) 961 S. State, SLC, 801-322-3590, lacaislc.com

2. All Chay

Step into this cozy vegan Vietnamese restaurant nestled in the heart of Rose Park. Prepare yourself for a culinary journey where familiar Vietnamese favorites like pho and banh mi are reimagined with purely plant-based ingredients. The talented chef has mastered the art of creating piquant broths without relying on meat and bones. The flavors are rich and satisfying, leaving you craving for more. (ALC) 1264 W. 500 North, SLC, 801-521-4789

3. Little Saigon

Sometimes, the humblest atmospheres serve the best food. Such is the case with Little Saigon. This little haunt, tucked away from the street, presents an unassuming eatery serving up some of the best bahn mi sandwiches this side of Vietnam. OK, so it is usually crowded, and it may be difficult to get a table at times, which may give it away that this place rocks, but wait your turn; it’s worth it. (ALC) 2021 Windsor St., SLC, 801-906-8630, littlesaigonutah.com ■

Lettuce wraps at Mi La-Cai Noodle House, home of Utah’s best Vietnamese food.

DINE

When you have guests to entertain, here’s how to impress them.

BY ERIN MOORE

Visitors to Salt Lake City can usually find a pretty predictable “must-go” and “must-do” list from friends and social media. But lately, it’s been hard to keep up! There are almost too many new, interesting and delicious places to keep track of. Some are national chains; others are local, and a few are one-offs. All we can say is: “Go!”

Not Your Father’s Steakhouse: STK

This global steakhouse chain does everything on their menu to the swankiest degree, from classic cuts of steaks to steadily priced surf ‘n turf to oysters with caviar and the loveliest little gem salads. They also get creative with dishes like miso-glazed sea bass, maple-rubbed salmon, chef’s ceviche and a jalapeño-pickled shrimp cocktail. The lavish menu is reflected in the price of offerings, but anyone chasing Wagyu beef could expect as much. 111 S. 300 West, Ste. 101, SLC, 385235-6376, stksteakhouse.com

Hot tip: Seek out brunch, lunchtime or their happy hour menus for an easier-to-digest price list, or pop on in Sunday through Thursday to sample some of the goods on their $69 steak nights.

Make Your Soul Glow: Sol Agave

Bet you didn’t think you could crave your favorite Mexican dishes more than you do—Sol Agave’s California-inspired, seafood-spiked menu will prove you wrong. Lobster is at home in guac as well as in enchiladas, a tenderloin app that gets marinated with sweet tamarind, crispy taquitos are packed with prawns packed with crab and baby back ribs are glazed in chipotle. Every imaginative take is anchored, of course, by rice and beans. Multiple locations, solagave.com

Hot tip: Head to their Botanas menu for tasters of their street-style tacos, guacamole, queso and inspired fried calamari.

Fast (and Fun) Food: Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, Midvale

Of the four Raising Cane’s locations in the valley, this one is significant because it’s a passion project of rapper Post Malone, who calls Utah home. Post Malone teamed up with the franchise in 2023 to bring a personalized Posty experience to Utahns—the special location has a bright pink exterior and is decorated with Post-inspired décor. Besides the food, there’s exclusive merch for

fans to seek out inside. 890 E. Fort Union Blvd., Midvale, 801-988-0027, raisingcanes.com

Hot Tip: If you’re already familiar with the very straightforward offerings of this chicken-fingerslinging chain, do yourself a favor and order the exclusive menu item inspired by Post’s favorite order. And look for the full suit of armor in the bathroom.

Sushi in the Hood: Mint Sushi

SLC’s sushi game just got better with not one but four Mint Sushi locations in the valley (Sandy, Cottonwood Heights, Holladay, Sugar House). Mint is a little more curatorial than many may be used to—instead of a sprawling menu of sushi, galactically-named rolls are narrowed down to a handful of interesting combinations that tend to stay below $20 each.

Hot tip: The list of small-plate offerings is not small but offers a mouthwatering selection of expected and unexpected treats like Wagyu crostini, sesame roasted chicken and even jellyfish. Multiple locations, mintsushiut.com

A History Lesson in Mexican: El Cholo

A Los Angeles family tradition has found its way to Utah by way of its new Sugar House locale, where you can get a taste of the restaurant that

helped popularize what we now know as Mexican food in the Western U.S.—enchiladas, tamales, fajitas, you know the drill! Menu items like Sonoran Style Nachos, Green Corn Tamales, Taste of History, and Crabmeat Enchiladas are all labeled with the date they were introduced to the restaurant, making for a dining experience with a side of history. 2166 S. 900 East, SLC, 385-426-2166, elcholo.com

Hot tip: Check out their website ahead of time to glimpse their expansive menu and learn about their family history.

High Brass Brunch: Laurel Brasserie

The Grand America’s restaurant Laurel Brasserie offers one of the most unique brunch experiences in the city. For once, eggs are not the star of the show, because while you can get them, diners can also sample buffet options like crepes, pizzas, herb-crusted prime rib, charcuterie (such a European breakfast), and fancy, filling delights like duck confit, trout amandine and mussels with frites. The Grand America Hotel, 555 S. Main, SLC, 801-258-6708, laurelslc.com

Hot Tip: If you are passionate about crudo, come for Laurel’s charcuterie offerings and stay for the seafood case: shrimp cocktail, smoked salmon carpaccio, tuna tartare and mixed seafood salad await, on ice.

Patio dining and laid-back vibes at Gracie’s

Rooftop Bars: Drinking, Elevated

Your guests will enjoy getting some height above our fair city, but it’s likely even you will be dazzled by the views of Salt Lake’s ever-rising skyline from these perches.

Drift Lounge at Woodbine

At Woodbine Food Hall, you can get whatever you’d like to eat, and you can also pack it up to the casual rooftop cocktail bar—the Drift Lounge, where you can soak in the chill vibes of the Granary District. 545 W. 700 South, Ste. 100, SLC, 801-669-9192, driftloungeslc.com

evo Hotel’s Crown Bar

At the center of all the Granary action appears to be evo—a place to buy gear, climb, skate, work out, even stay. And beyond that, imbibe. Spend your day in the middle of the action and cap it at evo Hotel’s Crown Bar, with a drink and views from the top of this Granary hub. 660 S. 400 West, SLC, 385-386-8585, evohotel.com

Gracie’s

A downtown institution, at Gracie’s, you can enjoy live jazz bands and an easygoing evening out, complete with fresh air and the sound of downtown hubbub. 326 S. West Temple, SLC, 801-819-7565, graciesslc.com

The Green Pig Pub

A Best of Utah “Best Rooftop Patio” winner of many years, Green Pig is as casual and cozy as bar patios come, and the bar bites are just as comforting. 31 E. 400 South, SLC, 801-532-7441, thegreenpigpub.com

Grid City

Just as delicious as the burgers and craft beers that Grid City specializes in are the views from their patio—the mountains look tall and mighty when you’re up there. 333 W. 2100 South, SLC, 801-906-8390, gridcitybeerworks.com

COURTESY PHOTO

Rooftop Bars: Drinking, Elevated (continued)

The Mayor Voss

Edison Street continues to become a place to be, and the latest reason is The Mayor Voss. This vibrant new spot for eats, drinks and music features a rooftop bar that looks out onto the busy alley—a chic hideaway. 228 S. Edison St., SLC 801-419-0871, mayorvoss.com

Piper Down

This favorite Irish pub just made a bid to get more popular by opening up their roof to their loyal pub-goers in what might be a State Street first. 1492 S. State, SLC, 801-468-1492, piperdownpub.com

Stoneground Kitchen

Stoneground has much to draw you in, like classic Italian eats and crunchy thin-crust pizzas. But if you choose to dine up top (and fireside) on the roof, you can also enjoy distinct views of downtown SLC along 400 South. 249 E. 400 South, SLC, 801-364-1368, stonegrounditalian.com

Van Ryder

This new locale atop the equally new Le Méridien hotel in Salt Lake may win the contest for most breathtaking views—familiar but high-end bar fare makes it easy to pick a dish and get back to losing yourself in the horizon. 131 S. 300 West, SLC, 801-658-4400, vanrydersaltlake.com ■

“This is a genuine rare find. The food is excellent. The atmosphere is perfect for a small group or date night. The wait staff are friendly and attentive in the style of a community family. Many people there are clearly regular customers who interact with the wait staff like they’re old friends. This place is on my very short list for Salt Lake City!” - Spencer

“Wow! I’m well traveled in the Middle East, and Mazza was perfectly designed to give you the experience of going abroad to the Levant. The restaurant has a traditional vibe, appropriate decorations, and a family owned feel. The professionalism and cleanliness and flavors were noteworthy. Extremely pleased. “ -Mariyah

DEREK CARLISLE

Piper Down patio

MUSIC

Christine Baird:

“Leaving my gigs feeling fulfilled”

I play both solo and with my band in northern Utah, everywhere from Edison House to The Spur. Stylistically, I describe myself as “Rocky Mountain Soul”— gritty elevated rock with a whole lot of soulful vibes. I have been gigging in the SLC area since the start of 2022. Although I grew up in the area, I had spent the previous decade living and working as a musician and performer in New York City. When I relocated back out West at the end of 2021, I was genuinely surprised to discover such a flourishing music scene. Over the past two years, I have watched it grow exponentially and have been so pleased with the following I’ve started to develop from my gigs around town. Gigging in Utah has gifted me the opportunity to not only make good money but also explore my artistry in a way I never felt like I could in NYC for various reasons. Sure, there have been occasional nights where barely anyone pays attention, but I usually leave my gigs feeling fulfilled, heard and truly supported by the staff and patrons alike. Overall, the experience has been very positive! christinebairdmusic.com

MUSICAL NOTES

Here’s why so many awesome bands put down roots in Utah.

BY EMILEE ATKINSON

As City Weekly’s music editor, I’m always surprised by the local music scene— surprised in a good way, of course. For starters, it’s filled with some of the nicest, coolest and most creative people I’ve ever met. Their passion and drive are unmatched, and we listeners constantly get to reap the rewards of their hard work.

Seriously, what did we do to deserve all of you?

From Ogden to Provo and everywhere in between, amazing groups of every genre and background can be heard. Just about any type of music that suits your tastes and moods can be found here. We asked a few local musicians why they continue to grace us with their presence (as opposed to moving to larger music markets). Here’s what we learned, and when you’re finished reading this, I hope you’ll give their music a listen!

Zyglrox: “More fans coming to local shows and supporting the artists”

I find that the music scene in the Salt Lake area is very welcoming to newer musical acts. I’ve heard acts in other cities have a difficult time finding gigs, but that isn’t the case here. It’s pretty easy finding other artists willing to join a bill. I am also constantly inspired by the support that musicians in the Salt Lake area offer each other. Everything feels more in the spirit of collaboration than one of competition. Everybody seems pretty tightly knit through social media. The fans are also pretty crazy in the area. Over the past few years, I’ve noticed a lot more fans coming to local shows and supporting the artists. They know the music and are passionate about supporting their favorite local artists!” zyglrox.bandcamp.com/music

Swerved by Blondes: “There really isn’t anywhere else with this kind of music scene.”

Swerved by Blondes is a five-piece punk rock band that was formed in 2022. After unsuccessfully trying to kick-start their love lives, the members of Swerved—Sam Parkinson, Cameron Goff, Conner Goff, Christian Martinez and Jack Carnivale —

decided after high school to pursue music and to start a band. They’d all played in short-lived bands with each other in high school but, after graduation, the final lineup came together.

The band decided to make high-energy music with relatable lyrics that everyone could sing along to. With love ballads like “Broken” and “U&Me” and punk anthems such as “Lollygagging” and “Dead Inside With a Side of Fries,” Swerved created a sound that everyone can jam out to.

Soon after forming, the band realized how truly lucky they are to be able to play the Salt Lake music scene. With so many amazing venues and audiences that are ready to party, every show was incredibly fun. The band feels there is no better music spot on earth than Salt Lake City and Provo.

If you’ve ever been to a Swerved show, you know how crazy the band can be onstage, and to this day, they’ve never had an audience in Salt Lake that didn’t match their energy. There really isn’t anywhere else with this kind of music scene, and that’s why the band loves the Salt Lake City. IG @swervedbyblondes

COURTESY PHOTO

Christine Baird

MUSIC

New Distraction: “There’s always a quick mountain escape from the daily bustle.”

New Distraction is a home-grown, three-piece band—all Utah natives and students of music. We’re comprised of drummer Chris Petty, a graduate of the U of U with a master’s of music in jazz studies; singer/guitarist Jake Martin, a Berklee College of Music alumnus with a BA in songwriting; and bass player Nate Meredith, a five-year principal bassist of the WSU Symphony Orchestra.

If you’re into ’80s pop, funk, ’90s-’00s alternative, reggae, contemporary, whatever ... we are, too! We integrate whatever our new distraction is and build it into our original music. And we have new music releasing soon! (Follow us on social media to hear it.)

Living in northern Utah, it’s impossible to overlook the beauty of nature as a cultural influence here. It’s like having a natural playground, and one that we as a band like to use to spark creativity. There’s always a quick mountain escape from the daily bustle that’s just a stone’s throw away, yet just a short ride downtown is a city center with plenty of music venues to choose from.

It’s also well-known that Utah is a traditionalist state, but that has spurred a thriving counterculture to bloom here. We’re showing the world that Utah’s putting out more than hymns now. IG @new.distraction

Scott Lippitt: “A fantastic network of unique small to medium-sized music venues”

I’ve been asked by my friend and City Weekly music editor, Emilee Atkinson, to share my thoughts on why local musicians love the local scene and how newcomers can best experience it. So, I went to my local music cassette tape collection, grabbed Dad Bod’s Pastels, threw it in my tape player and began typing out a response. Between the beautiful mountains, hiking trails, approachable city-life and an average of 222 sunny days a year, there’s a lot keeping me in Salt Lake City. The strongest glue, however, is the supportive, highly talented, historic and growing music scene. As an independent musician, I couldn’t imagine a better U.S. city to establish and grow a music career.

I’m not alone, either. My music friends and various music-makers I’ve talked to here have the same to say: Salt Lake City has a unique blend of traits that make it perfect to pursue music. The city-size is approachable yet large enough for a musician to grow an engaged fan base.

There is a “team” sentiment in which we all encourage and push each other to grow, as opposed to the “competitive” sentiment that can be found in cities like LA and Nashville. We are all working to highlight the immense talent and dedication to music found in SLC.

The momentum is building as well. One example is Little Moon, a Provo-NPR Tiny Desk contest winner in 2023. SLC also has a fantastic network of unique small to medium-sized music venues such as Urban Lounge, Kilby Court, The Beehive, The DLC, The International, Metro Music Hall and more. These venues have immense character. These venues host everything from local musicians who may be having their first concert to

national acts such as Big Thief, Porches and Reel Estate.

As a musician, it’s inspiring to play the same stages as my idols. If you’re looking to get into the music scene, look for an interesting show at Kilby Court, the DLC or The International, and you have a decent chance of meeting a large chunk of the music scene in one night. IG: @scott_lippitt_music

Ideal Horizon:

“Utah is part of our story as a band” We come from all over the U.S. We have one Utah local, Bryson, who plays bass for the band. Renee, our vocalist, is from Georgia. Keith, our drummer, is from Virginia. And Dominique, our guitarist, is from Texas. We all love being musicians for the same reason so many love listening to music. We love being a part of a community where we can all have one common connection. Being the ones making the music is a whole new level of satisfaction because we get to see how the things we create can speak to others as well. Coming together in Utah is part of our story as a band; we are proud to say this is where we started. There is a tight knit music/ creative community here that we have only had a taste of being a part of. From the venues to the photographers to the sound techs and producers, we love that we have the chance to represent this area. idealhorizon.co ■

JACOB MONIZ

SYDNEY SIGURD

Ideal Horizon

Swerved by Blondes

MUSIC

Typically, these raves begin in the early afternoon or evening and end at 2 a.m. with official afterparties downtown. The lineups include both local DJs for earlier slots and major headlining DJs like Diplo, Excision, DJ Snake, Kascade, Timmy Trumpet and Above & Beyond. During these raves, there are three different stages (one inside, one outside and one on the beach) with high-quality visuals, lasers, fire and spectacular fireworks at the end of the night.

Mutiny Music Collective is the youngest production group, popping up in SLC during the pandemic. While their first rave was a socially distanced drive-in festival in Grantsville featuring artists like Riot Ten, Subtronics and Sullivan King, they’ve grown substantially in the time since. They’ve also thrown successful two-day shows at Fear Factory with headliners Svdden Death and Deathpact last summer.

LNE Presents, founded in 2012, is not exclusively an EDM entertainment company; however, they regularly book EDM talent like Steve Aoki at The Marquis in Park City and Syndicate shows at Soundwell SLC.

Outside of these larger events, both V2 and Mutiny throw smaller-scale night events. V2 has been known for hosting their weekly Therapy Thursdays for nearly a decade at downtown Sky SLC, as well as regular shows at Soundwell SLC. More recently they’ve featured events at the Masonic Temple on South Temple, while the latter recently started throwing almost weekly sold-out shows at Boxpac Project warehouse on the westside of SLC as of January this year.

TECHNO CATS

Dial in Salt Lake’s electronic dance raves and parties.

BY ARICA ROBERTS

Seemingly little attention has been paid to the electronic dance music (EDM) scene within Salt Lake City, but if you’ve ever been to a local rave or underground show and danced well into the morning hours, then you know it’s the real deal. The three major production companies—V2 Presents, LNE Presents, and Mutiny Music Collective—boast several successful raves and shows on a regular basis. The difference between a rave and show lies within the size of the crowd and level of production put into the events.

For example, V2 Presents throws both large-scale raves like Get Lucky in March, Get Funky in May, Das Energi in August and Get Freaky in October. Many of these raves have taken place for over a decade, and their popularity is growing. Utah’s population has also grown, bringing new faces to the events, plus more attendees are coming from out of state.

These companies also make use of the downtown venue The Complex, for events like the NYE Saturnalia party by Mutiny (with headliner Marauda) and Basscase (with major dubstep and drum n bass artists like Justin Hawkes and Midnight Tyrannosaurus) thrown by V2 and SLC Live at the end of January. These production companies have a strong social media presence and announce scheduled events weeks or months in advance.

During both raves and smaller-scale shows, the crowd is full of mostly young adults in rave attire, trading brightly colored beaded bracelets, necklaces and accessories called “kandi,” which is a distinctive and unique part of rave culture and is designed to be given away or traded away as a sign of PLUR culture: peace, love, unity, and respect. Outside of major headliners, the local SLC DJs and producers are also making major waves in the scene. These include, but are not limited to: Fransis Derelle, OBAŸASHI, and Z & Z.

For the more exclusive underground parties, the locations are generally sent to ticket holders the day prior or day-of a show. These are held in places ranging from warehouse shows to parties out in the desert. Years later, these parties are still talked about and have established a legacy that has impacted the spirit of underground EDM shows in SLC.

In earlier years, an underground EDM show would take place in a secret location. If the show was super underground, wherever they would send you would send you to another location, and that’s where the show was. Seeking out the

location was part of the allure. Walking into an underground EDM show is like walking through a magical portal. There is the immediate contrast between the dark atmosphere and laser beams, crowds of people often dressed in costumes and LED dancers with hoops, poi and fans. One’s inner child can come out to play and be filled with awe.

The growth of the underground EDM scene can be best described as an ebb and flow. Over the past decade, many production companies have come and gone; tending to grow and fizzle out every three or four years.

Some production companies such as BLAQ VOID, Jaguar Occult and TEN4 Club have sustained their growth and maintained the scene’s core values. Their code of conduct is what makes them stand out the most, as they strive for a safe environment for anybody and everybody. This is the true ethos of underground EDM and what ultimately makes it so special.

Going to underground shows, you always get surprised because there is always new music and talent, friendly faces and good vibes all around. There is a difference in that attendees are not only there to see their favorite DJ, but also to build community and connection through music in Salt Lake City in the underground scene.

Overall, Salt Lake City has it all: if you’re looking for heavy dubstep bangers to funky house beats and mid-tempo rhythms, there are many spaces that have something for everyone to dance along. ■

COURTESY PHOTO

Datsik at LNE Presents

Alibi Bar & Place: small but mighty

Alibi Bar & Place

Small but mighty, Alibi continues to be an unexpected place to get down—and due to the cozy size of this craft cocktail-slinging bar and place, up close and personal with your dancing partner. Expect DJs spinning a variety of R&B, pop both new and old, and unexpected remixes. 369 S. Main, SLC, 385-259-0616

Area 51

All-ages have their very own dance floor at this bi-level dance venue where 18+ locals have their own place to groove, while 21+ folks can get a few drinks and wander between the two areas with their respective DJs. Don’t miss out on their famous goth nights, or the iconic Goth Prom! 451 S. 400 West, SLC, 801-5340819, area51slc.com

Club Karumba

If you want an excuse to show off your niche moves and hold a date close, head to Karamba, the Sugar House dance venue where Latin heat rules the night—look forward to reggaeton, bachata, cumbia, merengue and salsa. 1051 E. 2100 South, SLC, 801-696-0639

Club Verse

A new addition to a changing State Street, Club Verse is not only injecting atmosphere into the area but working to be another welcoming space for LGBTQ+ folks to let loose. With live music also on the horizon, Club Verse is a dance floor worth checking out. 609 S. State, SLC, clubverseslc.com

Durango Bar

Another State Street locale, Durango is bringing live Latin music and bands to the weekend crowd—great for anyone who wants to dance to more than just electronic music but not miss out on the lively club atmosphere. 923 S. State, SLC, 801-712-2662

READY TO BUST A MOVE?

If you think you can dance, here are 15 places to prove it.

BY ERIN MOORE

SLC’s nightlife scene is full of opportunities to strut your stuff on the dance floor, whether you want to dance silent-disco style or fall in line (dance). Read below for our guide to the best places to dance the night away in Salt Lake City.

Gem Nightclub

A new nightclub on the SLC scene, Gem is the best new place to indulge in SLC’s best hip hop music, from favorite local DJs like DJ Juggy, DJ Mak and DJ Mezz. Besides their regular Urban Nights, don’t miss out on their theme nights and touring guest performers. 132 Pierpont Ave., SLC, 801-654-3684, gemnightclub.com

Good Grammar

This tucked-away spot on Gallivan Avenue is a must-stop if you’re moving between bars on Main and State Street—just get there before the line to get in is down the block. Before it gets busy, grab a bite and one of their finer cocktails before the dancing sets in for the night. 69 E. Gallivan Ave., SLC, goodgrammar.bar

Ibiza SLC

At Ibiza you can get your Latin dance music fix—from Afrobeats, World Music to reggaeton raves and live music and DJs. And with theme nights galore, this nightclub is guaranteed to give any group a novel experience. 180 W. 400 South, SLC, 385-347-9076, ibizaslc. com

International Bar

On weekends this rather new State Street bar is vibrant with a rotating variety of local DJs, most notably their goth night DJs. But hit them up on any day of the week for interestingly themed DJ sets and live music from local and touring bands. 342 S. State, SLC, 801-9068798, internationalbarslc.com

Mambo Nightclub SLC

Another addition to what appears to be an SLC Latin nightclub renaissance, Mambo Nightclub brings the party (and DJs, and theme nights) to the west side of the city, just between Rose Park and downtown. 536 W. 100 South, SLC, 801-673-9895, mambonightclubslc.square.site

Milk+

One of SLC’s buzziest new additions to the queer bar scene is also a great place to just go dance, with various rooms featuring various DJs each night—so you can pick your vibe and be sure to have a perfect night. 49 E. 900 South, SLC, 801-935-4424, milkslc.com

Sky SLC

You don’t have to wait until summertime rave season starts to enjoy local and touring acts spinning dubstep, electronica and all manner of dance music—Sky not only towers in stature but in its year-round offerings. 149 Pierpont Ave., SLC, 801-702-9014, skyslc.com

Twist

Here, you have more than enough space to let loose—the restored 19th-century building is cavernous. Multiple bars and multiple areas to dance pull in a young crowd eager for pop DJs, and that’s what they get. 32 Exchange Place, SLC, 801-322-3200, twistslc.com

Westerner Club

SLC’s famous country western bar provides a dancing experience like no other—on the big dance floor, you can join an ocean of line dancers all moving in unison to big country hits. Just make sure you dodge the couples practicing swings and drops. 3360 S. Redwood Road, West Valley City, 801-972-5447, westernerslc.com

Why Kiki

This may or may not be the only place in SLC where you can just as easily watch a drag show, dance with the crowd, then pop down to a dedicated dance floor to groove to silent disco, all in one place. There’s no question when it comes to what to do at Why Kiki. 69 W. 100 South, SLC, 801-641-6115, whykikibar.com ■

COURTESY PHOTO

Tuesdays

thursdays

Kilby Block Party

Friday, May 10- Sunday, May 12

Utah State Fairpark, 155 N. 1000 West, SLC, kilbyblockparty.com

Man, oh man. Nothing gets people hyped these days quite like Kilby Block Party. The concert series started as a tribute to Kilby Court’s 25th anniversary but has grown into something more entirely. Thousands flock to the series each year, and it only seems to get bigger and bigger. Be prepared to party even harder as KBP enters its fifth year. The full lineup is online along with tickets, travel packages and all other info you need to come rock out.

Ogden Music Festival

Friday, May 31-Sunday, June 2

Fort Buenaventura 2450 A Ave., Ogden, ofoam.org

Why come to Ogden if you’re not going to stop in at Ogden Music Festival? Sure, there are plenty of reasons to visit O-Town, but if you’re a fan of bluegrass, folk and acoustic music in general, you do not want to miss this festival. Some of the acts you’ll get to see this year are Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, Sarah Jarosz, Hays Carll, Celisse, Say She She, Las Cafeteras, Pixie & The Partygrass Boys and more. Head to Ogden Music Festival’s website for all show details, as well as information on volunteering if that’s your bag.

Fort Desolation Fest

Thursday, June 6-Saturday, June 8

Cougar Ridge Resort, 800 S. 600 East, Torrey, fortdesolation.com

Want to head out of town for an adventure? If yes, Fort Desolation Fest should be your destination. Head down south to listen to great tunes and do some camping while you’re there. Reserve an on-site camping spot, or check out this year’s new glamping feature. This year’s lineup includes Black Pumas, Sierra Ferrell, Paul Cauthen, The Record Company, Jaime Wyatt, The Lil Smokies, Pokey LaFarge,

SHAKE, RATTLE AND ROLL

Don’t miss these summer music festivals of 2024.

BY EMILEE ATKINSON

There is no shortage of music festivals in Utah. The summer is jampacked with huge shows, and it can be hard to keep track. Never fear though, here’s a list of some of the biggest festivals and all of the info you need to plan your epic, music-filled summer.

Urban Arts Festival

Saturday, July 27-Sunday, July 28

Utah Blues Festival

Friday, June 14- Saturday, June 15

Gallivan Center, 50 E. 200 South, SLC, utahbluesfest.org

Nearly 10 years on, the Utah Blues Festival returns once more to bring you all of your blues favorites to one place. This year you can catch Larry McCray, Tab Benoit, Dennis Jones, Cash Box Kings, Sue Foley, Southern Avenues, and many more. Enjoy some great music and attend the various free workshops.

Deer Valley Music Festival

July 5-August 9

2250 Deer Valley Drive South, Park City, deervalleymusicfestival.org

If you love a concert and a gorgeous view, don’t miss any of the shows of the Deer Valley Music Festival. Bring your coziest blanket, and pre-order a picnic from the venue and have a relaxing evening of beautiful music in the Snow Park amphitheater. Among the gems of the summer lineup is Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit w/Adeem the Artist on July 13.

Country Fan Fest

Wednesday, July 24- Saturday, July 27

Deseret Peak Complex, 2930 UT-112, Grantsville, countryfanfest.com

Discover the electrifying lineup of country music’s brightest stars set to grace the stages of Country Fan Fest. Explore the artist roster below to find out who’s performing on each day of this unforgettable music festival at the Deseret Peak Complex in Tooele County. This year’s lineup includes Neal McCoy, Graham Barham, Riley Green, Chase Rice, Aaron Watson, Abby Anderson, Bailey Zimmerman, and many others.

The Gateway, 400 W. 200 South, SLC, utaharts.org

The Urban Arts Festival is your one stop shop to see great performances, buy gorgeous art and just have an overall great time with those in your community. “Rooted in the social and cultural life of the community, Urban Arts Festival provides a platform for cultural art, music, and performance,” their website reads. There’s plenty of activities for everyone, including kids, so feel free to bring the whole fam! Keep an eye on the website for a full list of activities that will be at the festival and for the lineup of music acts.

Park City Song Summit

Thursday, Aug. 15-Saturday Aug. 17

Newpark Town Center, 1389 Center Drive, Park City, parkcitysongsummit.com

The Park City Song Summit is a unique event that combines music and wellness. “Park City Song Summit was started out of a passion for music and a mission to bring clarity and normalcy to the struggles musicians, artists, and music lovers alike face around mental health and dependency,” according to the event’s website.

Das Energi Festival

Friday, Aug. 9-Saturday, Aug. 10

The Great Saltair, 12408 W. Saltair Drive, Magna, dasenergifestival.com

SLC has become well-known over the years for its ever-growing EDM scene. Each year, thousands head to The Great Saltair to dance to the very best the genre has to offer. Das Energi has continued to grow and become a favorite festival of ravers and connoisseurs of dance music. The full lineup wasn’t available at press time, but you can expect a music festival unlike any other, with a backdrop of the Great Saltair salt flats.

COURTESY

PHOTO

Kilby Block Party

Rev. Peyton’s Big Damn Band, Olivia Wolf and Cory Mon.

Twilight Concert Series

Dates TBA

Gallivan Center, 50 E. 200 South, SLC, saltlakearts.org

Before Kilby Block Party, before Das Energi, there was the Twilight Concert Series. Now in its 37th year, the Twilight Concert Series has continued to recognize incredible national acts alongside our own beloved locals. It typically has a diverse lineup that appeals to a wide range of listeners. Keep an eye out for the full lineup, and don’t sleep on getting tickets! They tend to go fast.

Ogden Twilight

May 16 to Sept. 13, 2024

Ogden Amphitheater, 343 E. 25th St., Ogden, ogdentwilight.com

The baby sibling of the SLC Twilight Series, Ogden Twilight brings the fun up north to offer even more variety to concertgoers. The 2024 schedule includes: May 16: Phoenix w/Metric and Beastie Vee; June 22: Cannons w/Washed Out; July 5: Ben Böhmer w/Tinlicker; July 6: Diplo w/Gioli & Assia; Aug. 8: Killer Mike & The Mighty Midnight Revival / Hippo Campus; Aug. 14: St. Vincent; Aug. 23: TBA; Aug. 29: Thievery Corporation w/Dirtier; Sept. 6: Broken Social Scene; Sept. 13: Tycho. ■

Utah’s Best Escape Artists

A Beer Lover’s Paradise

Twilight Concert Series

DRINK

WINING AND DINING, UTAH-STYLE

Local spots where you can sniff, swish and swirl with the best of them.

BY SHERAL SCHOWE

It might surprise you to know that Salt Lake City boasts a wine scene as diverse and captivating as its breathtaking landscapes. From restaurants with impressive wine lists to cozy wine bars pouring glasses of rare and interesting wines from around the world, the city’s vinicultural landscape offers a tantalizing journey for oenophiles and curious newbies to the wine world alike. Salt Lake City has emerged as a surprising haven for wine enthusiasts on every level, from the social imbiber to the serious student of advanced opportunities and education. Want to meet fellow wine aficionados? Here are a handful of my personal favorite bars, restaurants, wine stores, major wine events, wineries, clubs and certification opportunities. It is by no means an exhaustive list, so forgive me in advance if I have neglected to include your favorites!

Wine Bars

Casot Wine and Craft Cocktail Bar

For a very chill, yet mentally stimulating vibe on the 15th & 15th block, Casot has to be my go-to place on a Sunday afternoon or any other night before or after dinner. This is another innovative creation of Scott Evans who brilliantly sources some extremely rare finds from small family winemakers specializing in organic and biodynamic agriculture. The extraordinarily skilled bartender, Brian Richey, pours the most amazing lineup of wines, selected by Evans each week, which have included famous players such as Premier Cru Bourgogne, Vega Sicilia, as well as some extremely rare finds from the tiniest regions of Europe. Richey is a certified French, Italian and Spanish Wine Scholar, so if you are looking for stimulating conversation about the wines they have on offer, you will be entertained and enlightened. Casot also offers creative cocktails and craft beers. There’s something for everyone and the lineup changes every week. 1508 S. 1500 East, SLC, 801-441-2873, casotwinework.com

BTG Wine Bar serves more than 75 wines “by the glass” (BTG), as well as creative cocktails and a decent bar food menu. I love the vegetarian eggplant meatballs and focaccia with marinara, and I could truly eat a gallon of their shoestring fries. 404 S. West Temple, SLC, 801-359-2814, btgwinebar.com

Ivy and Varley is worth mentioning for its incredibly extensive list of spirits, and therefore, cocktails. The special menus include some vegan and vegetarian options that are creative and delicious. You must visit their website to see the entire list of wines, spirits and food. 55 W. 100 South, SLC, 801-895-2846, ivyandvarley.com

White Horse is an impressive place to bring your friends from out of town. Without exception, my guests have exclaimed a loud, “Oh My God!” when they walk in and see the entire wall of dramatically back-lit spirits. No worries, there is a reasonable wine list as well. The food is fantastic. My friend from Italy and I kept ordering and ordering until we about closed the place— worth every bite, sip and calorie. For a fun read, visit their website for the true story of the “White Horse prophecy.” 325 S. Main, SLC, 801-363-0137, whitehorseslc.com

Restaurant Wine Lists of Note

Log Haven

Thanks to the extreme wine passion of sommelier Ian Campbell, Log Haven’s wine list has never failed to impress the most discerning of diners looking for the perfect pairing to chef Dave Jones’ culinary creations. It was Campbell who handed me my first glass of Amontillado sherry, as dry and crisp as the falling leaves on an autumn day, which it actually was. I was transformed then and continue to be impressed by his selection of wines from around the world from reasonably priced to collector level. Campbell has created a list of specialty cocktails as well, to start your evening by the fireplace, or to enjoy while listening to a beloved local musician such as Emilee Floor as you take in the beauty of this historic canyon treasure. 6451 E. Mill Creek Canyon Road, SLC, 801-272-8255, log-haven.com

Libertango

Sandy is the new location for a South American family who created an awardwinning restaurant in Brazil and have made Utah their new home and second restaurant location. This innovative restaurant screams the theme of wine from the entrance that showcases a wall of wine bottles to the wine menu. It’s a pleasant surprise for the southern reaches of Salt Lake County. 10395 S. State, Sandy, 385-379-6122, libertango.us

Salt Lake City has emerged as a surprising haven for wine enthusiasts on every level. —Sheral Schowe, wine educator

DRINK

Antica Sicilia

This Millcreek eatery features a great list of reasonably priced Italian wines to pair with their award-winning cuisine created by chef and owner Giuseppe Mirenda. 3300 S. 2020 East, Millcreek, 385-202-7236, anticasiciliaut.com

Stanza Italian Bistro & Wine Bar

Any restaurant with Barolo Chinato on their list becomes an immediate favorite of mine. 454 E. 300 South, SLC, 801-746-4441, stanzaslc.com

State Wine Stores

If you’ve lived here more than a week, you’ve already figured out that the only way to purchase wine is to discover the network of Utah State controlled wine and liquor stores. While state stores offer wine selections, I prefer to search for wines at these two predictably well-stocked locations:

Store No. 41 is not only fully supplied with wines from the far reaches of Europe but staffed with the most knowledgeable professionals to guide you to the perfect selection for your dinner pairing, cellar collection or educational wine class. For the best advice on your wine purchases, ask for Eric, Justin or Drew. 280 W. Harris Ave. (1605 S. 300 West), SLC, 801-412-9972, abs.utah.gov

Store No. 35 is also well stocked and wellstaffed, though smaller than the Harris Avenue location. It’s very highly recommended for European as well as new world specialties. 250 S. 300 East, SLC, 801-533-6444, abs.utah.gov

Utah Wine Events

Utah Wine Festival takes place on Labor Day weekend every year, in Cedar City. Year after year, the wine competition becomes larger, and more competitive, as Utah’s winemakers work with older vines, improved agriculture and increased skills as winemakers. The competition is only one of the events on this ever-growing festival which includes winemaker’s dinners, lunches, winery tours, educational classes and the longest table for a wine dinner in the state. You will be able to purchase tickets in the summer for this early fall event at utahwinefest.com

Eat Drink Salt Lake takes place at Tracy Aviary this year Sept. 11-12. It is co-hosted by SB Dance to raise awareness about culinary and cultural opportunities. You’ll visit stations featuring local chef’s yummy bites and fabulous wines from around the world, accompanied by music, dance and performing arts. Purchase tickets at eatdrinkslc.com

Red White and Snow is a weekend-long wine, culinary and ski event held in Park City every March. For 20 years, this three-day event features wineries and top chefs presenting wine tastings, pri-

vate vintner dinners, skiing at three resorts, silent auctions and a black-tie gala dinner. All proceeds benefit the National Ability Center, which is the best reason of all to attend this spectacular event. redwhiteandsnow.org

Park City Wine Festival is scheduled for Oct. 3-5, 2024, at the Canyons Village. This is an opportunity to taste the wines from more than 100 wineries from California to France, attend wine dinners and lunches plus the bonus of educational seminars presented by the winemakers and sommeliers. parkcitywinefest.com

Wine Clubs and Organizations

La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs SLC, established in Utah 1976, is one chapter (Bailliage) out of 130 in the United States as well as 90 countries worldwide. It is the oldest and largest food and wine organization in the world, with its beginnings in Paris, France—500 years before the French Revolution in 1248. There are about 60 members who meet every other month for an exquisite food and wine experience at high-end restaurants throughout Salt Lake Valley. Members wear colorful ribbons that reflect their rank as a professional chefs, sommeliers, restaurateurs, hoteliers, food and wine educators and oenologists as well as nonprofessional foodies and wine aficionados who join for the opportunity of meeting like-minded people to celebrate the art and experience of the table. To inquire about the SLC chapter, visit chaineslc.org

Les Amis du Vin is a more casual social club for wine enthusiasts. It was started in 1976 to create opportunities for wine lovers to gather as a group of friends on a regular basis to enjoy the cuisine

of local restaurants and hand-selected wines. ladv-utah.org

Wine Schools

Wasatch Academy of Wine was established in 1991 as Utah’s first and largest wine school. There were several wine experts in Utah who came before as educators, brokers, mentors and major collectors, but this was the first to offer public wine classes for all levels of students. Services include advanced certification in the areas of Italy, France and Spain as well as fun one evening or lunchtime tastings at restaurants throughout the valley. Private wine dinners for homes or businesses are also available. Contact me, Sheral Schowe (yes, it’s my company!) for more information. Wasatch Academy of Wine is the affiliate provider of post-nominal certification programs through the Wine Scholar Guild. We also offer one night food and wine pairing classes through University of Utah Lifelong Learning (utahlifelong.com) and credit courses for Salt Lake Community College Culinary Arts Department. OK, enough about me! 801-414-7895, wasatchacademyofwine.com

Utah Wine Academy was created by Jimmy Santangelo in 2010. There is none better than Santangelo to teach you about cocktails, tequila, mezcal, gin, bourbon and scotch as well as wine! He is hilariously entertaining and spot on with accurate and engaging information. When I’m not teaching my own classes, I like to take his. He is the affiliate instructor provider for WSET, Wine and Spirits Education Trust, which is the first step in becoming a master of wine. To book a class or start your journey as a serious student of wine, visit wineacademyofutah.com ■

Savor inspired wine pairings at Stanza Italian Bistro & Wine Bar

Can I Get a Word In?

My favorite Utah drinking myths.

BY THOMAS CRONE

Acommon opinion among folks who don’t live in the Beehive State is that it’s hard to get a drink here. If you never step foot outside of Utah’s borders, this kind of thinking may seem like an outdated cliche, but it lives on in the average thinking of folks who call the other 49 states home.

They assume that if you live in Utah, you ski, hike or are in love with other forms of outdoor sports. They’ll probably also assume that you’re a Latter-day Saint. But having lived in SLC myself, I’ve found you can live a full life without ever stepping foot in a temple or ward house.

There’s also a notion that everything in Utah is just a little bit, well, weird. Maybe it’s due to the image of the sphinx at Gilgal Sculpture Garden in too many local tourist guides or TV shows featuring Utah’s polygamous families or the fact that Utah also makes regular, national headlines because the state’s largest body of water is evaporating into the high desert air.

But while we’re on the subject of liquids, there’s nothing like the misconceptions of Utah drinking laws. There’s no shortage of folks who offer a (wrong) opinion about drinking culture in Utah.

Misconception No. 1: The beer is weak—like 3.2 ABV weak! Untrue! But this one’s not wildly out of sync with reality. Go to one of the city’s great brew pubs, and you’ll probably go through a quick quiz if you’re not a daily regular. Your ID will be scanned, and you’ll be pointed to the draft towers,

where beers up to 5% can be poured for you onsite. If you’re looking for a “heavy point” ABV of over 5%, you’ll be directed over to the cooler near the front door, where bigger porters, stouts and IPAs often chill out. The bartender, almost certainly wearing a name tag, will go over your options for a second drink, when you can order it and how it can be consumed.

Misconception No. 2: Utah restaurants try to hide bartending operations. The tradition of a “Zion curtain,” a physical partition that separated drinker from bartender, ended in 2017 as restaurants all across the state made national news smashing their frosted glass, bartop walls. As NPR reported at the time, “The goal of the original rule was to shield kids from the supposed glamour of bartending and subsequent risks of underage drinking.”

Misconception No. 3: Members only? No, you don’t need to buy a membership card to drink at your favorite local pub. Go to a bar like Twilite Lounge (347 E. 200 South, SLC, 801-532-9400, twilitelounge.com) on a Friday night at, say, 11 p.m. You’ll find a young, hip clientele enjoying modern cocktails and dive bar-priced domestic beers. A membership card displayed behind the counter is a keepsake from the olden days (that ended in 2009), when exactly that kind of pocket paperwork was necessary to grab a round. Today, it’s an amusing, wee remnant of a bygone era. ■

If you’re ever confused by Utah’s liquor laws, get more confused by visiting: abs.utah.gov/faq

LIGHT THE FIRE WITHIN

GET READY TO PARTY WHEN THE OLYMPICS RETURN TO SALT LAKE CITY.

BY BENJAMIN WOOD

With the possible exception of 1869, when the transcontinental railroad came together at Promontory Summit, the coolest thing to ever happen in Utah was the 2002 Winter Olympic Games. And in 2034, unless something goes catastrophically wrong, Utah will get to do it again.

I was 15 and living in Ogden when the games first came to town. And like any Utahn, I have my personal list of magical moments: waiting in the freezing cold on Ogden’s 25th Street for the torch relay at Union Station; seeing Brooks & Dunn perform on the Medals Plaza; watching Belarus upset Sweden in Men’s Hockey; and, later, taking a school field trip to a Paralympic sledge hockey game, still one of the most thrilling live sporting events I’ve ever witnessed.

That’s not even my full list. The games were simply everything, everywhere, all at once There they were, wrapped around the facades of downtown skyscrapers. There they were in the Roots berets and collectible pins and volunteer coats that infected local fashion. There they were around every corner, down every alley, under your bed and outside your door. For weeks, both before and after the event itself, the eyes of the entire world were on Utah and the exposure forever changed the state for the better.

Now that I’m older and living in Salt Lake City proper, my excitement for the games has only grown, and not just because I want my son and his generation to have the same experiences I did. I also want legitimate public transit so future Utahns aren’t forced to drive everywhere. I want liquor and land use laws that allow neighborhood bars to thrive and that allow adults to socialize responsibly. I want a vibrant city center where locals and visitors enjoy spending their time and treasure,

with an economy steady enough to fund critical services like education, affordable housing and environmental repair.

There’s no guarantee we’ll get those things with the Olympics—but I guarantee they don’t happen without the Olympics. The wheels of government simply grind too slow and are too prone to stagnation when left to their own devices. Every now and then, you gotta recharge the batteries if you want to get good things done.

People are right to maintain caution and skepticism toward the games, but there’s also legitimate reasons why Utah is in a better position than other hosts. Legacy venues are in relatively good condition, needing upgrades and facelifts but no wholesale rebuilds. And the new elements that do need to be constructed can double as permanent community assets, something Mayor Erin Mendenhall noted in her recent State of the City address when she said the 2034 Medals Plaza wouldn’t necessarily revert to being a parking lot after the games, as the 2002 plaza at 300 West and North Temple did.

Utah is also facing an acute housing crisis, and the leadup to the next games ensures a decade of sustained development attention right where it belongs—in our dense and densifying urban centers rather than the sprawling suburban periphery.

To put it bluntly, Utah built many things wrong in the past and the necessity of preparing for the Olympics gives us a chance to build things better, or at least less bad. That’s what a second Olympics means for our city and many cities throughout the state—a fighting chance at a better future.

But who cares about all that … because it’s going to be fun! Yes, there will be costs and yes, there will be conflict, and, yes, there will be tRafFiC, but there will also be more parties, more concerts, more celebrity sightings, more swag and more events with more tickets than organizers even know what to do with. And when it’s over, Salt Lake City will be a bigger, brighter and a more globally notable version of itself, until we do it all over again in another 20 years! ■

Salt Lake City

Mayor Erin Mendenhall speaks at Olympic Plaza on Dec. 1, 2023.

WOMEN, WINE AND WILDERNESS

FINDING FRIENDSHIP ALONG THE TRAIL.

BY CAROLYN CAMPBELL

Angelique Fish never guessed that her first backpacking trip would become a turning point. She recalls her sense of accomplishment after completing that first outdoor venture. “I hung my bear bag, cooked my food and filtered my water,” she says. Her confidence rose as she embarked on more outdoor experiences.

Fish’s friend, Cindy Vance, accompanied her on that first backpacking trip. Both women envisioned the power inherent in supporting other women in the outdoors. As a result, in 2016, the women co-founded the Women’s Wine Hiking Society as a Facebook group.

Vance notes that snacks often accompany the wine. And nondrinkers are always welcome. “Sometimes, we will do a potluck where we share ingredients,” she says. “We try to have fun events where people can show up, meet others and connect.” In hopes of helping more women see future hike announcements, they created a website. Today, the Utah group has 5,400 members. There are chapters in all 50 states.

Fish describes their philosophy: “We’re a social club with a hiking problem. We’re not the group that races to the top. Rather, we’re the group chatting the whole way.”

Vance says, “The number of women who have found their best friend in this group is amazing. You would think they had known each other for years. We might all start as strangers. In the end, we are all friends.”

Each hike becomes an event. “We’re a community, and we have an ambassador who guides every hike,” Vance explains. She and Fish coordinate every aspect, assuring everyone knows the starting point. “We ensure everyone is safe, and no one is left behind,” says Fish. “Even if you’re a slow hiker, it’s OK. We will make sure to wait for you. You will get to the top with us.”

With a motto like: “Making pour decisions since 2016. Wine not?” you know the vibe is fun. The Women’s Wine Hiking Society—where members are often 30-somethings who may have relocated to Utah—are one of many ways that locals make connections while figuring out what makes this pretty great state rock. winehikingsociety.com ■

Happy hour in the Great Outdoors: Women’s Wine Hiking Society