If you are planning an upcoming trip to Salt Lake City and you are anything like me, then food is your top priority. I am a Salt Lake City local and have spent a lot of time checking out all of the best restaurants here. I am excited to share this list of the best restaurants in Salt Lake City with you. 

11 Best Restaurants and Eateries in Salt Lake City

Takashi: This sushi restaurant is my number one recommendation. If you can only go to one of these restaurants, please make it Takashi. If you are feeling adventurous, order the Omakase. Omakase is a Japanese phrase that means, “I’ll leave it to you.” At Takashi, you set a dollar limit somewhere around $50 per head and leave it to the sushi chef to bring out rolls, appetizers, and sashimi. Expect to wait an hour because they don’t take reservations. It’s so worth the wait!

What to order: Torched Sablefish

Tacos Mi Carmello: Looking for a hidden gem that most tourists never check out? This taco spot has the best tacos and vampiros in all of Salt Lake. Think of a Vampiro as a crunchy taco.  If you go on a Tuesday or Thursday tacos are 2 for 1.  

What to order: Al Pastor Vampiro

Valter’s: Treat yourself to an evening of delicious pasta other rustic Italian specialties. Valter’s is home to the best fresh pasta in Salt Lake City. Be prepared to take your time enjoying the atmosphere, great service and seeing tableside presentations of many dishes being served all around you. 

What to order: Lemon Gelato with Fresh Honey

Oasis: I am in love with brunch and Oasis is one of my favorite brunch finds in Salt Lake. They have a beautiful patio and a cute bookstore inside for you to explore. One of the best parts about Oasis is their mix of healthy and vegan options along with more traditional brunch items. Don’t forget to order a mimosa with one of their fresh juices too!

What to order: German Buttermilk Pancakes

Banbury Cross Donuts: Hands down, the best donuts in all of Salt Lake. Be sure to get here on the earlier side to have your pick of donuts. This is my favorite stop on the way up to the mountains before a day of skiing. 

What to order: Sugar Donut

Normal Ice Cream: I scream, you scream, we all scream NORMAL ICE CREAM! I have been known to hit up this spot more than once a week and always have a pint in my fridge. Normal Ice Cream is amazing soft-serve ice cream, with one permanent location and an ice cream truck. They change their flavors monthly so keep an eye out on Instagram for the latest. 

What to order: A Composed Cone

Moochies: Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, Moochies is home to the famous meatball sub. I recommend ordering either the meatball sub or a hoagie depending on your mood. Be prepared, these sandwiches are huge and you probably only need to order a half. 

What to order: Salami and Provolone Hoagie

Taqueria 27: This is an all-time favorite of mine, and my go-to spot for date night, Taqueria 27 never disappoints with their unique taco fusion. They have your traditional tacos and a few more risky options like the stir-fried orange shrimp over Asian slaw taco. 

What to order: PBLTA & Hand Shaken Margarita

Yoko Ramen: There are a few really great ramen spots in Salt Lake City, but Yoko Ramen has quickly become my favorite. The quaint restaurant is cozy and the perfect spot to sip on ramen when the temperatures dip. 

What to order: Pork Ramen with Miso Butter

White Horse: This classic bar lives up to the hype. Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time as they normally have a long wait just to sit at the bar. White Horse has an amazing rustic atmosphere and offers delicious cocktails to pair with your dinner. 

What to order: Egg n’ Chips and Steak Tartare 

Freshie’s Lobster: Voted best lobster roll in the US in 2016, Freshie’s does not disappoint. They now have two locations; one in Salt Lake City and one in Park City plus a food truck. You may not have come to Salt Lake looking for the world’s best lobster roll, but you found it anyway.

What to order: Real Mainah Lobster Roll

If you are looking for more Salt Lake City recommendations, check out my weekend guide and my 5 favorite coffee shops.