Best Things to See in Salt Lake City (2025)
Red Iguana
Mexican restaurant · Fair Park
A multigenerational, family-run standard where rich, scratch-made moles define the city’s flavor. Frequently cited by Eater and beloved by national food media, it’s as local as it gets—lively rooms, gracious hospitality, and plates that linger in memory.
Oquirrh Restaurant
American restaurant · Central City
Chef Andrew and Angie Fuller’s intimate dining room champions Utah producers with imaginative, technique-driven plates. Named a 2025 Best Restaurant by Salt Lake Magazine, it’s a clear snapshot of SLC’s confident, ingredient-first cooking.
The Pearl
Bar · Downtown
A Vietnamese-American bar from chef Tommy Nguyen where shareable plates, pho nights, and an excellent cocktail program meet. Recognized by Salt Lake Magazine and covered by Axios, it channels Central 9th’s creative energy.
Caputo's Market & Deli
Deli · Downtown
More than an excellent deli: this independent market is a hub for artisan cheese, exceptional chocolate, and hands-on classes. The Salt Lake Tribune regularly highlights its education series and the beloved annual Chocolate Festival.
Fisher Brewing Company
Brewery · Downtown
A revived 1884 brewery turned employee-owned taproom anchoring the Granary District. Known for a rotating cast of food trucks and an easygoing community vibe, it’s a reliable stop for fresh lager and pale ales.
Templin Family Brewing
Brewery · Downtown
Brewmaster Kevin Templin’s lager-focused taproom pairs big, communal tables with firepits and a steady stream of medal-winning beers. Local outlets have chronicled TF’s World Beer Cup and GABF wins—proof in the steins.
caffe d'bolla
Coffee shop · Downtown
John and Yiching Piquet’s micro-roastery pioneered siphon coffee in SLC. Praised by local food writers and industry pros, it’s a meticulous, sit-and-savor experience that turns a cup into a one-hour tasting journey.
Kilby Court
Live music venue · Downtown
Since 1999, this tiny, all-ages garage venue has launched countless touring and local acts. Covered by the Salt Lake Tribune and Axios via its Kilby Block Party, it captures the DIY heart of the city’s music scene.
The Heavy Metal Shop
Music store · Liberty Wells
An indie record-and-merch institution since the late 1980s, still owned by founder Kevin Kirk. The Salt Lake Tribune has chronicled its move and enduring community role—stop in for vinyl, stories, and SLC music lore.
Utah Museum of Contemporary Art
Art museum · Downtown
Downtown’s non-collecting contemporary museum spotlights regional and global artists with timely, socially engaged shows. Recognized by state and national arts groups, it’s free with a suggested donation and easy to pair with nearby venues.
Scion Cider Bar
Bar · Downtown
A Central 9th gathering place with one of North America’s largest craft-cider lists. Honored by Salt Lake Magazine for community service and highlighted by cider industry groups, it’s a smart, social way to explore orchard culture.
Dented Brick Distillery
Distillery · South Salt Lake
Independent distillers drawing from an on-site artesian well, offering tours and tastings of award-winning rye, gin, and more. Recent medals from national competitions back up the story; book a tour to see the operation up close.