David D.
Google
Stepping into the Old Spaghetti Factory at Trolley Square always feels a bit like stepping through time, into a place where meals linger, stories are shared, and tradition matters. I’ve dined here many times over the years, but this most recent visit was especially memorable as we celebrated my daughter’s 16th birthday, a milestone made all the sweeter by good food and warm atmosphere.
We made a reservation in advance, which I highly recommend, especially on a Friday night. Even arriving a little early, we were greeted by staff stationed outside, efficiently and cheerfully managing the evening’s flow before we ever crossed the threshold. True to form, we were seated right on time.
One of the enduring delights of this location is its variety of dining spaces, the main floor, the upstairs balcony, and even the iconic old trolley car, where I once had the pleasure of sitting on a previous visit. This time we were seated on the bustling main floor, right in the heart of the action. Far from distracting, it was a joy to watch the staff move with practiced rhythm, like a well-oiled macchina, each person knowing their part.
Our waitress (shout-out to Alex) was friendly and attentive throughout the meal, striking that perfect balance between present and unobtrusive. With it being the holiday season, I was genuinely impressed by the abundance of festive décor. It was warm, nostalgic, and charming, exactly the kind of old-world ambiance that pairs well with pasta and conversation.
As always, the drinks were a hit. My kids and I never pass up the cotton candy limeade, sweet, playful, and delightfully unique. While I usually come for their legendary mizithra cheese and browned butter for my entree, this time I branched out and ordered the Manager’s Favorite, a half-and-half plate. I paired the mizithra with their rich meat sauce, upgraded to the larger portion, and made it extra saucy. A wise decision, as it meant I enjoyed the meal all over again the next day.
Each entrée comes with a choice of soup or salad. I upgraded to a Caesar salad, while my son opted for the minestrone. And of course, no visit would be complete without the fresh bread and butter; simple, soft, and perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce from the plate.
And just when you think the meal has come to a satisfying close, the included dessert arrives, a small but meaningful tradition that further cements the Old Spaghetti Factory’s place as a classic. Each entrée comes with a choice of vanilla ice cream or spumoni. A couple of us went with the classic vanilla, simple, smooth, and comforting, while others chose the spumoni, that old-school Italian favorite layered with chocolate, pistachio, and cherry ice creams (this one does not include bits of fruit and nuts). It’s the kind of dessert that feels nostalgic and ceremonial, less about indulgence and more about continuity, one final, sweet reminder that this is a place where traditions endure and meals are meant to be remembered.
The Old Spaghetti Factory has been a fixture in Salt Lake City for generations, and that history is part of its charm. Even my mother remembers coming here as a young single adult, and she still stops in whenever she’s back in town. Few restaurants can claim that kind of legacy.
Once again, the Old Spaghetti Factory did not disappoint. From the service to the setting to the satisfying comfort of a hearty Italian meal, it earns every bit of its five stars. This is a place where memories are made, and remade, one plate of pasta at a time. 🍝
