7 "New" Places to Get a Good Bite or a Well-Made Drink

Homeworks Property Lab
Aug 4
2 min read

Updated: 6 days ago

The food and beverage scene here in the Salt Lake valley tends to move pretty quickly. Truth be told, it's tough to keep up—for every door that closes (we hate to see our favorites shut down), it seems that three or four new restaurants or bars open in its place. On the one had, it means that our local economy is still robust and welcoming for those with an entrepreneurial spirit amid significant population growth. But it's also a good reminder...

Always keep your mind (and stomach) open to trying new things.

The following spots may not all be "new" in the traditional sense (some have been open for a while), but they're certainly not "old" either. And no matter how long they've been around, we encourage you to venture out and explore if you haven't already given them a try.

FOOD

1) Junah

If you're feeling a little reticent about a menu described as "Italian & Japanese fusion," do yourself a favor and put that aside. We've yet to try a bad dish here (suggestions: Buffalo Burrata Arancini or Tagliata di Bosco), and the thoughtfully designed interior lends a warm ambiance with a minimalist touch.

2) Top Taco:

Salt Lake City has more than its fair share of amazing spots for a taco you won't soon forget, and Top Taco is, decidedly, one of those. Peddling "authentic Mexicana al pastor and carne asada," you'll want to pop in here for the tacos (or loaded nachos) al pastor or the loaded asada fries.

3) Cosmica

First things first, they somehow nailed the camp, retro, spaghetti western, eclectic design here, and it makes for a delightful dining experience. But Cosmica is also serving some really great Italian dishes (suggestions: any pizza, House Puffy Bread, or Liguine e Shrimp) alongside a great natural wine list.

4) Bar Nohm

Nohm closed shortly after Covid, much to everyone's chagrin, but in 2023, it reopened again as Bar Nohm (this time in partnership with the guys next store). Chef David Chon and the owners of Water Witch added a "secret" connecting door, insanely unique cocktail menu, and Asian fusion sharing menu. It's a perfect night out.

5) Van Ryder

Sometimes you want an insane and unbeatable view to accompany your drinks/bites, thus we've added Van Ryder to this short list. Sitting atop downtown SLC's Le Meridien hotel, this rooftop bar offers sweeping views of our valley, all the expected beverages, and a menu that touts a smoked brisket platter and truffle fries.

6) Spritz!

This new cocktail bar is seated inside the Peery Hotel, and it's a lovely spot to stop for a prosecco spritz (Aperol, St. Germaine, Limoncello, etc.), tasty mocktail, or well-made, run-of-the-mill-cocktail. The theme here feels cute and quirky: expect to find brightly colored, velvet sofas, tchotchkes, and eclectic art while you sip.

7) Thieves Guild Cidery:

Yes, they produce and serve around a dozen rotating house-made ciders and occasional sparkling meads or cymys in‑house, using local ingredients. But more importantly, this is a fantasty-themed cidery and taproom that Salt Lake Magazine described as, “chaotic wizard maximalism.” So everyone should just...go.