Seven questions with Alison Einerson, Executive Director of Urban Food Connections of Utah. When she's not running the Downtown Farmers Market, you can find Alison wining and dining in the heart of the city.
What is your first or fondest memory of downtown?
I have such great early memories of Downtown! My mom worked at the Salt Lake Athletic Club when I was in elementary school, so we would come to work with her occasionally, and then we'd walk down Main Street, hit the Magic Shop, TP Gallery, Crossroads Mall, and the ZCMI center. It was magical--we just roamed around. I started riding the 37 Magna UTA Bus into downtown when I was in junior high school. We used to hang out on Main, or go get a coffee at Bandaloops, or go swimming at the Deseret Gym! I spent a lot of time Downtown as a kid, and I think it fundamentally helped shape who I am today. One of my first jobs was at the Gap at Crossroads Mall, so I thought I was pretty cool.
What is your favorite thing about downtown?
I love our city in so many ways! I love the energy, the remarkable restaurants, the architecture, and the small businesses that make it unique. I can't pick one thing. Probably the food.
How will downtown SLC look and feel differently five years from now?
I think the new developments that are coming online now will dramatically change our skyline, and that's exciting. I think there will be a lot more people on the streets enjoying our amenities both during the day and at night, and I think we'll continue to be a leader on the forefront of the food scene in the West. I hope people will be enjoying our authentic Market District and visiting the Public Market!
If you could change one thing about Salt Lake City, what would it be and why?
Probably the liquor laws.
Friend or family is coming to town, asking for entertainment recommendations. What three places do you send them to?
The Eccles Theatre is TRULY amazing, I'd recommend that for sure. Drinks at Copper Common, dinner at Copper Onion or HSL. If its summer, the Downtown Farmers Market is a must, and any of the new outdoor concerts that are going to be happening this season.
What's your favorite day of the year downtown?
Opening day of the Downtown Farmers Market!
When you are not working or playing downtown, what do you do for fun or entertainment?
I am generally in the garden, in the kitchen, in the mountains, or traveling around our amazing state with my family and our camper.