In recent months, Utah’s culinary scene has seen an impressive influx of new establishments, ranging from restaurants to bars and cafes. These openings bring an array of global flavors and dining experiences to the Beehive State, catering to food lovers of all kinds.
Starting with a notable reestablishment, Star Of India has reopened in Salt Lake City at 1000 S Main St. This restaurant, a nostalgic favorite for many, including its original patrons, is acclaimed for its South Asian cuisine, offering dishes like chicken chili tikka masala and keema matar. As it stands, Star Of India ranks among the top three South Asian dining locations in Utah.
Meanwhile, Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken has made its debut in Orem at 541 E University Pkwy. This popular chain is known for its hand-battered, double-fried chicken, with a menu that also highlights various Korean and Japanese dishes. The Salt Lake Tribune has hinted at further locations in West Valley City and Lehi.
Another new spot worth mentioning is Big Dipper, which recently opened its second location at 208 E 500 S in downtown SLC. Known for its innovative take on French dip-style sandwiches, the menu features creative options like a banh mi with pho dipper, and Cuban sandwiches dunked in black bean soup.
For bubble tea enthusiasts, Coco Bubble Tea has opened its second shop in South Jordan at 11428 S Pkwy Plaza Dr, expanding its reach from the original location in Provo.
The Continental, led by chef Bleu Adams, has officially opened in Provo at 63 E Center St. This restaurant reimagines American cuisine through an Indigenous lens, offering inventive dishes such as Anasazi bean hummus and duck confit with mole negro. The restaurant has also hosted guest chef events featuring notable culinary talents.
A long-anticipated arrival, Cosmica has opened its doors in the Central 9th area at 945 S 300 W. Chef Zach Wade’s menu emphasizes traditional Italian classics without unnecessary alterations, focusing on quality ingredients in its simple yet profound dishes.
Creole & Sliders Cafe has moved into South Salt Lake at 2285 S Main St, bringing flavors from New Orleans with a focus on shrimp po’ boys and cornbread, which have garnered favorable reviews.
Dos Hermanos has transitioned from food truck to a permanent location in Park City at 6699 N Landmark Drive, offering authentic Paraguayan street food, including empanadas and lomitos.
El Barril has also opened in South Salt Lake at 633 E 3300 S, revamping the space left by previous eateries with its fresh offerings.
Following the Texan influence, Goat Head has debuted at 702 S 300 E, where owners Sarah and Michael Boone-Witham create a breakfast and lunch menu inspired by their roots.
New Korean cuisine is represented by Guroott in Orem at 266 N State St, which has received praise for its authentic home-cooked meals.
For brunch lovers, Hash Kitchen is now welcoming patrons at its new location in SLC at 1313 Foothill Dr, offering a vibrant menu filled with hashes, frittatas, and a DIY Bloody Mary bar, complete with infused vodkas.
Hispaniola Bistro has made its mark by showcasing Dominican flavors, with unique dishes that pay homage to the diverse culinary influences of the region. The quick mention of donuts has attracted attention, with a captivating twist on Kibbeh among the offerings.
Holy Taco in Pleasant Grove at 312 E State Rd specializes in authentic Mexican al pastor tacos and various vegetarian options to accommodate different tastes.
Junah, located in the Central 9th area at 916 Jefferson Street, is the latest venture from the Koyote team, combining Italian and Japanese culinary elements to create unique fusion dishes.
For BBQ aficionados, Kenny J’s BBQ is now open in South Jordan at 11610 District Dr, specializing in Texan-style BBQ with a menu laden with smoked meats and hearty sides.
Located at 1600 Snow Creek Dr S, Matilda is a new addition from the team behind Five5eeds and Tilly’s, while McAlister’s Deli has entered the Utah market with a location in Sandy at 7810 S 1300.
Mooyah Burgers, Fries & Shakes is also gearing up to serve its famous burgers, fries, and shakes at its South Jordan location at 11428 South Parkway Plaza Drive.
Morty’s Cafe is the latest addition to the Logan area, opening its doors at 111 E 1600 N, while Motel West has introduced a limited menu of tacos and burritos in Orem at 1128 S State St.
Mint Sushi has joined the ranks in Draper, and Mr. Feng’s Chinese Food & Pho has opened in Midvale at 7640 State St, boasting a diverse menu that combines Hunan and Sichuan cuisines with Japanese and Vietnamese influences.
North Italia has established its first Utah location in Riverton at 13303 South Teal Ridge Way, featuring handcrafted Italian dishes alongside craft cocktails in a vibrant dining atmosphere.
Pepper Lunch, an international DIY teppanyaki chain, is now a part of the Riverton dining scene at 13299 S Teal Ridge Way.
Ramblin Roads is the latest iteration of a local American restaurant chain, with two new locations now gracing downtown SLC at 169 S Main St and 206 South West Temple.
Repeal, a jazz-infused cocktail bar, has revitalized the space at 19 E 200 S, featuring an extensive drink menu and a new dining experience that aims to capture the lively spirit of downtown.
Salt City Che, a Vietnamese dessert shop, has opened in West Valley City at 3585 S Redwood Rd, offering an intriguing selection of sweet beverages and treats.
Sal Y Limon Modern Taqueria has emerged in Midvale at 1076 East Fort Union Blvd, promising authentic Mexican flavors with a contemporary twist.
See’s Candies has made its debut in Ogden at the Crosspointe Shoppes, adding to its well-known reputation in the region.
Senor Pollo has expanded to a new location in Midvale at 7563 S Main St, specializing in Sinaloan-style chicken.
Smothered Burrito has opened a new Jordan landing site at 7211 Plaza Center Dr that complements its downtown SLC restaurant.
The Station Bar, a new establishment in Herriman at 12283 Herriman Main St, offers a typical bar menu filled with familiar favorites.
Sugar House Station has transformed into a food and bar hall at 2155 S Highland Dr, with multiple vendors operational, including Cannella’s and Proper Burger.
Sweet Honey Desert is a newcomer in Chinatown at 3390 S State St, promising authentic Hong Kong desserts.
Tacos 1905 has arrived in South Jordan at 10709 S Redwood Rd, providing a wide variety of taco options.
Takumi Sushi & Buffet has become the latest all-you-can-eat destination in Sugar House at 618 E 400 S, featuring an extensive selection of sushi and Asian dishes.
Tandoori Taqueria has made a comeback in the MAVEN District, showcasing its Indo-Mexi fusion menu after a year-long break.
Thai Taylorsville has established itself in Taylorsville at 4121 Carriage Square, while Tuk Tuk’s has expanded to SLC’s Marmalade neighborhood at 535 N 300 W.
Several new eateries are also on the horizon: Downtown Daybreak is set to welcome Moena Cafe, Hires Big H, and Nomad Eatery.
Hruska’s Kolaches will be taking over the space previously occupied by Brownies! Brownies! Brownies! at 1751 S 1100 E.
Kiitos Brewing’s second location in Sugar Hood is underway at 1533 South 1100 E, with an expected opening in May.
Konala, a healthy fast food brand, is preparing to launch in Salt Lake City, emphasizing its innovative drive-thru concept that promotes health-focused menu items.
Mensho’s ramen restaurant is preparing for a soft opening this May 22nd and 23rd, known for its commitment to sourcing from local farms.
The anticipated Plov & Borsch will cater to the Eurasian cuisine contingent at 55 N Redwood Road, offering flavors from Central Asia and Eastern Europe.
Finally, Scout Bar & Grill has opened in Springdale at Red Cliffs Lodge, offering hearty comfort food and a unique dining experience amidst Zion National Park.
Additionally, Starbird has announced plans for franchise expansions in Salt Lake City, aiming to bring its premium fast food concept to the area.
Local dining enthusiasts have a lot to explore with these myriad openings, promising delectable dishes from various culinary traditions. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional comfort food or innovative fusion dishes, there’s much to indulge in across the state.
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