"Established in 1879, the Star is the oldest continuously operating saloon west of the Mississippi, and a favorite among wintertime adventurers. Located in the sleepy mountain town of Huntsville, this Old West joint is about an hour’s drive north from Salt Lake City, situated in the valley between the mountain resorts of Snowbasin and Powder Mountain. The ambiance and decor are quirky, with multiple huge pieces of mounted taxidermy confronting guests from the walls (including a large St. Bernard), part of the Star’s particular charm. It’s perfect for a winter pit stop after a day on the slopes nearby for a burger, chips (there’s a strict policy against French fries), and a beer. Those in the know come for the off-menu Star Burger: two patties with cheese, Polish knackwurst, and bacon. The staff is curmudgeonly, the service is slow, and the place is cash-only, but the oddball factors add up to one of the best burgers in the entire state." - Sarah Entwistle
