The Park Cafe 

604 East 1300 South Salt Lake City | Daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. | $$

Perched next to Liberty Park, The Park Cafe serves up classic American breakfast favorites with zero pretension. Tables fill quickly (truly, we've seen lines wrapped around the block), but you can put your name down and go for a wander around the park, which is the best of both worlds.

The Park Cafe's year-round patio is one of Salt Lake's best-kept breakfast secrets. Summer brings leafy shade and Liberty Park people-watching just across the street. Colorful umbrellas create perfect pockets of shade while keeping that mountain air flowing freely – the ideal setup for long, leisurely brunches that might just stretch into afternoon.

Dishes to Get: Their Huevos Mexicanos arrives picture-perfect, and the signature FTF (French Toast Foolishness) has developed something of a cult following among locals.

Local's Tip: After breakfast, cross the street to Liberty Park for a post-breakfast stroll or a paddle boat ride. Families should make time for Tracy Aviary, where you can get up close with everything from eagles to flamingos. The park also features a playground, old-school Ferris wheel, and pedal boats that'll make you feel like a kid again.

Oasis Cafe 

151 South 500 East Salt Lake City | Daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. 

Health-minded but still hearty enough to fuel a mountain adventure? That's the Oasis Cafe way – a timeless little gem serving thoughtful cafe cuisine in a setting that feels like your coolest friend's backyard.

Roll in for a late brunch and try their Oasis Breakfast – two eggs, breakfast potatoes, applewood smoked bacon, and wheat toast that somehow hits all the right notes. Lunch people can't go wrong with the Oasis Steak Sandwich, where tenderloin meets horseradish aioli, peppery arugula, and melty provolone on ciabatta that manages to be both pillowy and sturdy. Either pairs perfectly with their house coffee, which somehow tastes even better on the patio.

Speaking of that patio – it's open year-round and sits just blocks from downtown's buzz but feels worlds away. Winter brings clear vinyl weather protection that still lets you take in neighborhood views while staying toasty.

Dish to Get: The Oasis Omelet with applewood bacon, mushrooms, onions, avocado, cheese, breakfast potatoes and salsa fresca. The only thing it doesn’t come with is the kitchen sink.

Local's Tip: After refueling, slip into Golden Braid Books through the door past the host stand. This enchanting little shop specializes in spiritual titles, local authors, and the kind of quirky gifts that make perfect Salt Lake souvenirs.

Hub & Spoke Diner 

1291 South 1100 East Salt Lake City | Weekdays 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Weekends 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Retro diner vibes meet modern culinary creativity at Hub & Spoke, where comfort food classics get thoughtful upgrades. Their breakfast burritos have rightfully earned their reputation, but don't sleep on the breakfast nachos, which somehow manage to make perfect sense before noon.

The atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between nostalgic and fresh – think classic diner elements with contemporary touches that make it Instagram-worthy without trying too hard. Whether you're fueling up for mountain adventures or recovering from yesterday's, Hub & Spoke's patio delivers one of Salt Lake's most satisfying brunch experiences.

Dish to Get: Apart from the aforementioned breakfast burrito, the Kentucky Hot Brown Skillet deserves your attention. It comes with house-brined & smoked turkey, bacon, tomatoes, Swiss cheese, sourdough toast, béchamel, and sunny side up egg.

Local's Tip: After your meal, head north to the 9th & 9th neighborhood, where locally-owned shops and laid-back vibes await. Don't miss Salt & Honey Market, where you'll find uniquely Salt Lake souvenirs crafted by local artisans or the famous Out of the Blue Whale sculpture as you walk by.

Copper Onion 

111 East Broadway #170, Salt Lake City | Weekdays 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Weekends 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Daily 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The Copper Onion stands out as one of downtown Salt Lake's most consistent culinary stars, serving elevated American brasserie-style dishes focusing on locally-sourced, sustainably-raised ingredients. A favorite among locals and visitors alike since 2010, it strikes that perfect balance between special occasion and Tuesday night dinner.

Their charming outdoor patio creates the ideal setting for their brunch offerings, which turn breakfast into an event worth setting an alarm for. Their Classic Eggs Benedict arrives with a silky hollandaise that might just ruin all other Benedicts for you, while seasonal ingredients from local farms shine in every dish. You can literally taste the difference between grocery store eggs and the farm-fresh variety they source from just miles away – all while mountain air adds that something extra you can't quite replicate indoors.

The Copper Onion has maintained its reputation for excellent service, warm atmosphere, and beautifully executed dishes since opening its doors. Reservations strongly recommended – this is one of those spots that stays busy for good reason.

Dishes to Get: The Ricotta Dumplings to start the meal, and then order the Carbonara (yes, pasta for breakfast), the Turkish Eggs or the Eggs Benedict.

Local's Tip: After your meal, take a quick stroll to the nearby Gallivan Center to catch free performances or art installations, or visit the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art to experience boundary-pushing exhibitions from artists around the world.

Log Haven

6451 East Millcreek Canyon Road, Salt Lake City | Daily 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

After spending the day on Millcreek Canyon's gorgeous trails, there's no better reward than dinner at Log Haven. This romantic fine-dining sanctuary tucked within the canyon offers an unforgettable combination of mountain serenity and culinary excellence.

A true jewel among Utah's mountain-view restaurants, Log Haven delights with New American cuisine that's worthy of its spectacular setting. And the patio at Log Haven might just ruin all other outdoor dining for you – mountain views, the gentle soundtrack of a nearby waterfall, and in autumn, a front-row seat to the canyon's spectacular color show as leaves transform to fiery oranges and reds.

Pro Tip: Reservations accepted until 9 p.m. daily, but patio seating follows a first-come, first-served policy, so arrive early for the best outdoor spots.

Log Haven maintains a "neat casual" dress code. If you're combining adventure with dinner, pack a change from your hiking gear – nice jeans and a stylish top or casual dress will have you covered. Save the technical fabrics for the trails.

Dishes to Get: Start with the bold Imperial Milk Stout Brined Duroc Pork Chop or delicate Miso Crab Cakes before moving to standouts like the Achiote Adobo Grilled Chicken or vibrant Stir-Fried Market Vegetables. Save room for their legendary Frozen Coconut Banana Soufflé – as unexpected as it is delicious.

Local's Tip: Millcreek Canyon offers some of Salt Lake's most accessible hiking without the crowds of its more famous neighbors. Dog-friendly (unlike Big and Little Cottonwood) and packed with trails for all abilities, it's the perfect pre-dinner adventure spot. For stunning valley views, tackle the 5.6-mile Grandeur Peak trail – just start early if you're hiking summer afternoons, and always pack plenty of water.

Silver Fork Lodge 

11332 Big Cottonwood Canyon Road, Brighton | Daily 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Silver Fork Lodge delivers mountain charm in spades from its perch in Big Cottonwood Canyon. This cozy alpine retreat serves up hearty, home-style comfort food that tastes even better with a side of fresh mountain air. With mountain views that make everything taste better, dinner here feels like the mountain retreat experience you came to Utah hoping to find.

The outdoor patio is what mountain dreams are made of – towering pines, crisp canyon air, and views that remind you why you came to Utah in the first place. Winter brings the patio tables indoors, but floor-to-ceiling windows keep those spectacular snowy views intact. Summer transforms the space into a refreshing mountain retreat, offering sweet relief from valley temperatures that can climb into the 90s.

The surrounding canyon offers endless year-round recreation – hiking, fishing, and mountain biking when the snow melts; world-class skiing and snowboarding at Solitude and Brighton Resorts (or backcountry terrain for the adventurous) when winter arrives.

Dishes to Get: Their Canyon Pepper Steak will have you plotting your next visit before you've finished the last bite. Locals don't even glance at the menu anymore – they're here for Elmo's meatloaf, a dish so comforting it's practically therapeutic after a day on the trails.

Local's Tip: Silver Fork Lodge embodies the laid-back mountain spirit Salt Lake locals love. No need to stress about your attire here – hiking clothes and ski pants are completely welcome. This is where adventure and appetite meet, with zero pretension.

Arlo 

271 North Center Street, Salt Lake City | Wed. - Sun. 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday Brunch 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Arlo brings chef-driven excellence to Salt Lake's historic Marmalade District with a menu that celebrates global influences and the rhythm of the seasons. Must-try dishes include their Beet Salad, where zippy citrus and crunchy pistachios create the perfect balance. Light eaters shouldn't miss the Chicory Salad, a refreshing favorite among regulars.

The outdoor patio at Arlo feels like dining in a secret garden, with its vine-covered pergola creating an intimate, romantic atmosphere. During colder months, they transform the space into a heated glass house, ensuring year-round comfort without sacrificing those magical outdoor vibes.

Just steps away sits the magnificent Utah State Capitol, where stunning architecture and panoramic city views provide the perfect pre-dinner stroll. The Marmalade District itself offers charming historic homes and local shops worth exploring before your reservation.

Dish to Get: They have an inventive take on Fish and Chips. They top fresh cut potato chips with house smoked fish, celery and dill with caraway creme fraiche.

Local's Tip: While in the area, visit nearby Memory Grove Park for a quiet moment among stunning City Creek Canyon views. The peaceful green space features scenic walking paths, a dedicated off-leash dog area, and an impressive marble Pagoda crafted from the same Vermont quarry that supplied the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Tuscany 

2832 East 6200 South, Holladay | Sun. - Thur. 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Fri. - Sat. 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Tuscany serves up Italian-inspired cuisine in a setting that feels like you've stumbled upon a secret villa at the base of the Wasatch Mountains. Nestled among lush greenery, this restaurant offers a tranquil escape that's perfect for special occasions or those nights when you just need a meal that feels like a getaway.

The patio at Tuscany might make you forget you're just minutes from downtown. Surrounded by towering trees and ivy-covered stone walls, it creates a magical dining atmosphere whether you're enjoying a summer evening under twinkling lights or a cozy fall dinner with the mountains as your backdrop.

Dishes to Get: Don't miss their Chicken Piccata, Double Cut Pork Chop, or the House Made Gnocchi – all prepared with the kind of attention that transforms quality ingredients into memorable meals.

Local's Tip: After dinner, take a scenic drive up Big Cottonwood Canyon to Guardsman Pass (just before Brighton Ski Resort). The panoramic views of the canyon and neighboring counties are breathtaking, especially at sunset. In autumn, it's one of the best spots to witness Utah's spectacular fall colors, and on clear nights, the stargazing is phenomenal thanks to minimal light pollution. Pack layers if you're heading up in spring or fall – temperatures drop quickly at higher elevations.

Fisher Brewing 

320 West 800 South, Salt Lake City | Mon. - Sat. 11 a.m. to 12 a.m., Sun. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Fisher Brewing Company revives a slice of Salt Lake history in the evolving Granary District. This employee-owned craft brewery offers a constantly rotating selection of expertly crafted beers and cocktails in a space that balances industrial charm with neighborhood warmth.

Originally founded in 1884 by German immigrant Albert Fisher, this historic brewery has been reborn as a community hub where quality and creativity flow as freely as the conversation. Their tap list changes regularly, ensuring there's always something new to discover, from crisp lagers to experimental IPAs.

Their outdoor patio has quickly become one of Salt Lake's favorite gathering spots – dog-friendly, people-friendly, and serviced by a rotating cast of local food trucks that pair perfectly with their brews. Mountain views and downtown vistas create the ideal backdrop for afternoon or evening hangouts.

Local's Tip: The surrounding Granary District is experiencing a renaissance, with vibrant murals, unique shops, and exciting food concepts appearing seemingly monthly. Take some time to explore this evolving area that represents Salt Lake's creative future while honoring its industrial past.

Eva 

317 South Main Street, Salt Lake City | Daily 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Eva sits right in the heart of downtown's Main Street, offering shareable small plates and craft cocktails that make it the perfect pre-show fuel stop or gathering place before a night out.

Their hidden patio is one of downtown's best-kept secrets, tucked behind the restaurant and surrounded by the energy of urban Salt Lake. It's an ideal spot to decompress after shopping at nearby City Creek Center or before catching a performance at the Capitol Theatre just a few blocks away.

Dishes to Get: The small plate format encourages exploration – don't miss the Lobster Ravioli, Fig & Pig Pizza, or their perfectly executed Grilled Lamb Chops.

Local's Tip: After dinner at Eva, take a magical evening stroll down Main Street, where trees twinkle with colorful lights year-round, creating the perfect transition to your next destination.

Handle Bar 

751 North 300 West, Salt Lake City | Weekdays 11 a.m. to 1 a.m., Weekends 10 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Handle Bar brings playful bicycle-themed energy to Salt Lake's Marmalade District, creating a vibrant spot with something for everyone. Their entire vegan menu has converted even dedicated carnivores, while the Tiger Wings keep regulars coming back regularly. Their tap list features an impressive selection of local and domestic beers, with creative cocktails for those who prefer spirits.

The dog-friendly patio offers year-round mountain views and plenty of people-watching. Heaters keep the space comfortable during cooler months, and the relaxed vibe makes it perfect for everything from casual dates to friend gatherings.

The surrounding Marmalade District features historic homes and local shops worth exploring. Memory Grove Park and the Utah State Capitol are just minutes away when you're ready for some post-drink exploration.

Dishes to Get: The Handlebar Nachos, Smoked Wings and the Carne Asada Loaded Fries or Tots should not be missed.

Caffe Molise 

404 South West Temple Street, Salt Lake City | Daily 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sun. - Thur. 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Fri. - Sat. 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. 

Just at the edge of downtown, Caffe Molise has earned its reputation among locals for Italian-inspired cuisine that manages to be both sophisticated and heartwarming.

The outdoor patio feels like stumbling upon a secret garden in the middle of the city. Surrounded by lush greenery, it creates an enchanted atmosphere that's perfect for romantic dinners or leisurely lunches when the weather cooperates.

Entertainment options abound just steps away – Capitol Theater, Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center, and Abravanel Hall all offer opportunities to experience Salt Lake's vibrant performing arts scene before or after your meal.

For wine enthusiasts, BTG Wine Bar awaits in the basement below, offering over 75 wines served "By The Glass" alongside expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate setting.

Dishes to Get: Must-try dishes include their Polenta Con Salsiccia, featuring spicy sausage, roasted peppers, onions and marinara, and the Papparadelle Al Sugo, with house-made fresh papparadelle tossed with a savory, slow cooked sauce of pork and beef with tomatoes that elevates pasta to star status.

Local's Tip: Caffe Molise gets bustling, especially during dinner hours. Make a reservation if you're planning to catch a show afterward to ensure a relaxed meal without watching the clock.

Sapa 

722 State Street, Salt Lake City | Mon. - Sat. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., Mon. - Fri. 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Sat. 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Sapa brings Asian fusion brilliance to Salt Lake, blending Japanese and Vietnamese influences into a dining experience that feels both exotic and comforting.

But Sapa's outdoor patio is what truly sets it apart – featuring authentic antique Vietnamese tea houses that were carefully imported and reassembled to create an otherworldly courtyard experience. Surrounded by these intricate wooden structures and lush greenery, dining here feels like being transported thousands of miles from downtown Salt Lake.

Dishes to Get: Don't miss the Baked Dynamite with scallop, shrimp calamari and mushroom– or signature sushi creations like the Maui Wowie, where tempura shrimp, mango, and macadamia nuts create tropical magic on your palate. Their imaginative cocktails provide the perfect flavor complement, balancing traditional Asian ingredients with contemporary mixology.

Finca

1513 South 1500 East | Daily 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. 

126 Regent Street | Tues. - Thurs. 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Fri. - Sat. 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

With two distinct Salt Lake locations, Finca delivers Spanish-inspired cuisine featuring vibrant flavors and locally-sourced ingredients.

The 15th & 15th location boasts a serene patio retreat, where lush greenery and ivy-covered walls create an urban oasis perfect for lingering over tapas and conversation. After dining, explore this charming neighborhood's local shops and cafes, including the beloved King's English Bookshop, where local authors and carefully curated titles await. Nearby Sugarhouse Park offers mountain views and peaceful duck-watching just a short drive away.

The downtown Regent Street location may be smaller but places you steps away from the Eccles Theater, where Broadway shows and touring acts provide the perfect post-dinner entertainment.

Dishes to Get: Their two paellas, Paella de Valencia and Paella de Mariscos, and crispy Patatas Bravas are consistent favorites. Save room for their Churros with chocolate dipping sauce – they'll ruin all other churros for you forever and make you want to book a trip to Spain.

Local’s Tip: Each location offers a distinct vibe to match your mood. The 15th & 15th spot provides a relaxed, neighborhood feel perfect for casual gatherings, while Regent Street puts you in the heart of downtown energy when you're craving that urbane night-out experience.

Franck’s Restaurant

6263 Holladay Blvd., Holladay | Sun., Tues. - Thurs. 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Fri. - Sat. 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Franck's Restaurant creates an intimate retreat where fine dining meets playful creativity in Holladay's peaceful surroundings. Their patio, enveloped by lush greenery, offers a serene backdrop for culinary exploration. This hidden gem elevates American fine dining with unexpected twists that delight the palate.

Dishes to Get: Don't miss their Lemon Brined Southern Fried Chicken, where sweet tea and cheddar grits meet house-made hot honey cucumber for a sophisticated take on comfort food. The Crispy Braised Local Lamb Shank, accompanied by silky brown butter polenta and mocha-burgundy sauce, showcases their talent for balancing tradition with innovation. Save room for the whimsical Milk & Cookies Budino, featuring milk pudding, brown butter cookie, and bourbon caramel.

Root’d Cafe 

2577 Bengal Blvd., Cottonwood Heights | Daily 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Just minutes from Salt Lake City proper, Root'd Cafe delivers locally-sourced ingredients and creative comfort food in a space that feels like your favorite neighbor's backyard. The sunny patio offers views of the quiet Cottonwood Heights neighborhood and makes the perfect fuel stop before heading to nearby mountain adventures – or recovery spot after a day on the trails.

Dishes to Get: Their Breakfast Burrito – packed with perfectly grilled veggies, your protein of choice, and house potatoes – puts chain versions to shame.

Local's Tip: Since Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons are watershed areas that don't allow dogs, nearby Millcreek Canyon makes the perfect alternative for four-legged adventurers, with trail options for all ability levels.

Pro Tip: If you're visiting in summer, Snowbird transforms into an outdoor playground with mountain coaster rides, alpine slides, and a tram that delivers you to breathtaking wildflower meadows. At the same time, the resort's summer festivals bring live music, craft vendors, and mountain-top dining experiences just a scenic drive away from downtown.

Finn’s Cafe

1624 South 1100 East | Daily 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Finn's Cafe brings a unique Scandinavian twist to Salt Lake's breakfast scene, tucked into the vibrant Sugarhouse neighborhood. This cozy morning spot pairs perfectly brewed coffee with fresh, distinctive plates you won't find elsewhere in the city.

The garden patio feels like dining in a secret flower garden, surrounded by lush greenery and blooms that create a peaceful retreat perfect for lingering over brunch conversations.

Dishes to Get: Don't miss their Norwegian Waffles, served with traditional lingonberries, or the Scandinavian Breakfast featuring poached red trout alongside eggs and hash browns. Their Eggs Benedict crowned with Finn's signature Hollandaise sauce has developed something of a cult following among locals.

Local's Tip: After breakfast, explore the surrounding Sugarhouse area, known for eclectic shops, local art galleries, and the expansive Sugarhouse Park, where walking paths, picnic areas, and mountain views await.

Laan Na Thai

336 W 300 S | 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Sunday

Laan Na Thai brings Bangkok street flavors to downtown Salt Lake with zero jet lag required. Their drunken noodles might ruin all other versions for you – they strike that perfect balance between spicy kick and savory depth that has locals scheduling their next visit before they've finished the first bite. Don't miss their chicken pad thai either – it's exactly what pad thai should be, with perfectly cooked noodles and that ideal sweet-tangy-umami harmony.

Their sidewalk seating puts you right in the middle of downtown energy, where people-watching becomes part of the dining experience. The compact outdoor setup creates a communal vibe where neighboring tables often share food recommendations or toast across spaces when something particularly delicious arrives. It's the ideal spot to unwind with friends over shared plates and craft drinks that pack surprising flavor punches.

Dishes to Get: Aside from the drunken noodles and Pad Thai, check out the green curry pasta and curry dumplings for a different flavor balance.

Local's Tip: Before your meal, stroll through the historic Avenues neighborhood, where beautiful architecture in various styles, stunning valley views, and tree-lined streets create one of Salt Lake's most distinctive areas.

Proper Burger Company 

865 South Main St. | Sun. - Thur. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fri. - Sat., 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.

Proper Burger Company delivers handcrafted burger perfection using fresh, never-frozen ingredients in creative combinations that satisfy both traditionalists and culinary adventurers. Enjoy your burger on their welcoming outdoor patio, a casual, dog-friendly space perfect for people-watching while you tackle your towering creation.

Dishes to Get: The "Johnny Utah" – featuring house-smoked turkey pastrami, zesty coleslaw, and zucchini pickles – offers a unique twist on the classic burger. For those seeking the ultimate indulgence, the Pork City, USA, a house made ham, bacon, fried egg, fries, proper sauce, American cheese, tomato, and pickled jalapeno magnificent experience.

Plant-based diners aren't left behind – The Bollywood Burger features mango and apple chutney, curried roasted red pepper hummus, kale pesto, bell pepper, spinach, red onion that satisfies even committed carnivores.

Local's Tip: Just a block east on State Street, IconoClad offers a treasure trove of consignment shopping beloved by Salt Lake's younger crowd. Their thoughtfully curated mix of gently used and new clothing ranges from on-trend streetwear to unique vintage pieces, all at wallet-friendly prices. It's the perfect post-burger browsing destination for sustainable fashion finds with personality.

Hog Wallow Pub

3200 East Big Cottonwood Canyon Rd., Cottonwood Heights, SLC | Wed. - Sun. 12 p.m. to 1 a.m., Mon. - Tue. 2 p.m. to 1 a.m.

The Hog Wallow Pub sits perfectly positioned at the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon, offering rustic charm, live music, and that quintessential après-ski (or hike) atmosphere locals love.

Their tree-shaded patio creates a magical outdoor setting just minutes from downtown but worlds away in feeling. With heaters extending the outdoor season, it's the perfect year-round spot to refuel after canyon adventures or simply escape the city for an evening.

Dishes to Get: Menu highlights include perfectly smoky wings, fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs, and a tri-tip sandwich that's worth the drive alone.

Local's Tip: Before settling in at the Hog Wallow, explore the natural beauty of Big Cottonwood Canyon. If you're looking for an accessible adventure with big scenic payoff, the Donut Falls trail offers a 3.3-mile out-and-back experience with a unique waterfall that flows through a donut-shaped hole in the rock. It's the perfect afternoon hike before rewarding yourself with dinner and drinks.

These patios are just the beginning of what makes Salt Lake the perfect blend of urban energy and outdoor adventure. From downtown's vibrant arts district to powder days just 30 minutes from your hotel room, you'll find yourself planning your next visit before you've even finished this one. Whether you're here for mountain thrills, cultural discoveries, or simply to savor the unique flavors of our city, Salt Lake delivers experiences that stay with you long after you've returned home.