DTA Staff

DTA Staff

Opening Soon

Torrent Cycle | 15 East 400 South | Currently waiting for their permanent space to be completed, Torrent Cycle is temporarily located at 15 East 400 South.  

Mini Moustachery | 50 South Main | Check out one of City Creek’s newest shops, step inside and enjoy the old school experience of a classic Moustachery.

The Daily | 222 South Main | The Daily is a fast casual cafe focusing on seasonal food, house baked goods and pastries, and quality coffee from Stumptown Coffee Roasters.

Sicilia Mia | 8 East Broadway | According to Salt Lake Magazine, “This is the Italian restaurant Salt Lake has been waiting for!” The downtown location will be opening late October/ early November. 

Recently Opened

Alibi Bar & Place | 369 South Main Street | Enjoy craft cocktails in an intimate setting. Alibi Bar & Place is a great new addition to one of downtown’s densest nightlife hubs.

Button Down Bar & Club | 122 West Pierpont Ave. | Taking the place of Lumpy’s Sports Grill, get your ‘butt on down’ to check out this sports bar meets night club!

Campos Coffee | 228 South Edison Street |  Offering an assortment of in-house brewed coffee and espresso, lunch and a beautiful interior, Campos Coffee has quickly become a local hot spot on Edison Street. 

Core Life Eatery | 50 South Main Street | Featuring green bowls, grain bowls, broth bowls, and made-from-scratch beverages. These hearty salads leave you energized and full, perfect for those eating vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and more.

Este Deli | 238 S Main  | Eleven years ago Dave Heiblim brought New York Style Pizza to Salt Lake. Since its inception, Este Pizza has opened three locations (Sugarhouse, Downtown & Park City) and has won the Salt Lake City Weekly’s readers poll for “Best Pizza” numerous times. Locals and East Coast transplants alike can testify to the authenticity of Este’s offerings. Now Este is bringing “Deli” to Utah, and offering an array of classic sandwiches from the East Coast and beyond. Classics hoagies include the Italian, Cheesesteak, Buffalo Chicken and Chicken, Eggplant and Meatball Parmesan.

Itto Sushi | 12 West 300 South |  With roots in Midvale and Orem, this Japanese Grill and Sushi Bar recently opened another location right in the heart of Downtown.

Post Office Place | 16 West Market Street | Three years in the making, this upscale bar is what Salt Lake City deserves. Stop by for a drink before dinner at Takashi next door, or stay for a full meal with a small plates menu that’s sure to impress.

London Belle | 319 South Main Street | From those that brought you downtown hits like Pleiku and SoCo, London Belle is anticipated to open in the spring. Named after one of Utah’s most high profile madames, it is located near the historic Boston and Newhouse Buildings. Taking the place of SoCo, this upscale bar will feature a diverse menu with unique offerings and craft cocktails. #redlightslc

LaBarba Coffee |  The Gateway | They make one of the best cups of coffee in Utah—and maybe the West. And now, they are moving their downtown location to The Gateway. LaBarba Coffee has announced its newest location in the heart of downtown’s up-and- coming sports and entertainment district..

Ramen 930 Downtown  | 12 West 300 South | From those that brought you Cupbop, Ramen 930 offers hearty bowls of ramen in addition to Japanese comfort classics.

What is YPSLC and what do you want to accomplish?
Young Professionals Salt Lake City is focused on making sure young professionals in our area have a great Utah experience. Our goal is to connect young professionals with each other and the community through coordinating unique events and activities.

YPSLC is a non-profit organization 100% run by a board of young professionals who either moved here for work or have called Utah home for a number of years. We basically live in a postcard: crime rates are relatively low, the cost of living is amazing, if you hate your job you can quickly find a new job, and world class entertainment and activities are right outside our front door.

We have found that if young professionals build friendships and a solid network here, feel connected to local leaders, know where to go and what to do, and engage in projects that impact the community then they are more likely to love living here too. YPSLC has four programs that helps young professionals do just that.

Young Professionals are able to make new friends and build their network through our Connect! Programming. All Connect! events feature a mingle game that ensures event attendees meet at least 3-5 new people.
Our Elevate! Programming is focused on events that help young professionals gain new knowledge, skills, or advance in their career. Past events have included wine tastings, soft skills workshops, and chats with C-Suite leaders.
So many young professionals are unaware of the amazing things to do in Salt Lake City or don’t have anyone to do it with. Through our Experience! Programming, young professionals are able to explore things to do while connecting with people to know in an intimate setting. Experience! events are typically capped at about 25 people. Past events have included a dinner with elected officials and brewery tours.

Last but not least is our Give! Programming. Give! is all about giving back to our community. We fundraise for local nonprofits and volunteer in the community. We have done everything from hand out burritos in Pioneer Parks to laying sod in South Salt Lake to holding a karaoke event that allowed us to raise money for Shelter Kids.

Ultimately, we want to make sure every young professional wants to live here and never leave.

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How have these organizations been successful in other cities?
Similar organizations have been very successful in other cities, even if they had less to work with. Young professional organizations have led the charge in attracting young professional to cities we were not originally interested in living in. Great examples are Milwaukee’s Newaukee, Oklahoma’s TYPROS, and Ohio’s CYPCLUB.

TYPROS does things like funds programs that engage young professionals in economic development and "placemaking" initiatives, which reimagine public spaces to improve residents' health, happiness and well-being. Newaukee was able to assist in changing the perception of Milwaukee from a manufacturing town to a city with a vibrant arts & culture scene.

These cities are now seeing an influx of global businesses wanting to have a presence in the state and the willingness of young professionals wanting to continue to reside in the state or relocate to the area to fill jobs.

What should young professionals care about joining your organization?
Young professionals should care about joining YPSLC because we are a one-stop shop for all a young professional’s needs. Bare minimum, YPSLC can assist a young professional in expanding their network. The area becomes so small and goals become so much easier to achieve when you have a strong network.

Hundreds of young professionals are currently using YPSLC to build solid connections with others who will gone on to become future business and community leaders in our state.

Where do you see YPSLC in five years?
In five years’ time we will have empowered other young professionals to use our model and create similar organizations across Utah. Point of the Mountain Area is booming and the young professionals who reside there due to the tech industry have needs that need to be addressed.

How do you see Downtown fitting into your long-term objectives?
The Downtown Alliance has been a valued early partner in helping us achieve our goals while making sure downtown is a place young professionals want to be. For example: When a child finds a great playground, they beg their parents to take them there. When a young professional finds a great playground, they take themselves there. We ultimately want young professionals to “take” themselves to our playground regardless of if they are already living in Utah or residing outside of the state.

Al fresco dining in downtown will get a taste of old world charm as Caffé Molise and BTG Wine Bar open the doors to their new location at the historic Eagle Building this summer. Partners Fred Moesinger and Aimee Sterling purchased the building, commonly referred to as “the Bay” by locals, after a three-year search for a downtown location to fit the needs of their established, popular businesses. The restaurant and wine bar’s current location is slated for future redevelopment, necessitating a move. With the purchase and renovation of the Eagle Building, Fred and Aimee are creating an iconic gathering space that blends the building’s neo-renaissance style with the celebrated fresh Italian cuisine, warm service and a bright future.

Caffe Molise 2

A Tall Order to Update a Historic Building

The Eagle Building had sat for some time in disrepair, and Moesinger’s excitement is palpable as the challenging project approaches the finish line. “It’s a grand old place,” says Moesinger. “Aimee and I are excited to be restoring it to former glory. We’ve been looking to buy a building for over three years, but nothing we saw met all of our needs.” It was important for Moesinger and Sterling to have a downtown location, a building with charm and also a patio—their former patio on 100 South was routinely voted a top patio in the city. “We feel fortunate to have found all those qualities in the Eagle Building,” says Moesinger. “Our business has grown, thanks to the support of our customers over the last 25 years, and we look forward to better serve them in our new space.” The Eagle Building has immense historical significance to the city, listed on both the Salt Lake City Landmark List and the National Historic Register. Upgrades to the building require design review to preserve the historical integrity of the space. The building is chock full of fine details and grand features that characterize its neo-renaissance style, with a nod to Italian roots. Visible markers of the style are the grand staircase, arched windows and openings, exposed brick, Egyptian-style pillars, and its three stories separated by horizontal ‘belts.’

Renovations Moesinger and Sterling had to make include adding an elevator for improved ADA access and service, landscaping and design of the balconies and patio for outdoor seating, and creating separate commercial kitchens for the dedicated menus at each business. The grand staircase on West Temple leads to the main dining room for Caffé Molise; and BTG Wine Bar’s separate entrance on 400 South, under the original antique awning, descends to the three-quarter basement. The upper level includes space for expanded seating, private events and banquets. With a grand patio and two balconies designed with shade and natural finishes, outdoor dining will be available to both restaurant and wine bar patrons. This promises to be an incredible space to while away the summer nights.

Maintaining A Storied History

When it comes to bringing people together over food and drinks, the Eagle Building has a long and varied history in Salt Lake City. Built from 1915 – 1916 to house the Fraternal Order of Eagles, the building was designed by renowned architect Nils Edward Lilienberg. The Order was a social club founded by theater owners in Seattle for those working in the industry to organize, recreate and party while touring the country’s theater cities. Eagle buildings appeared across the country in cities with vibrant theater scenes, including Salt Lake City—home to 12 operating independent theaters, including the Orpheum, Utah Theater and Capitol Theatre. While the Order worked on timely issues, such as labor laws and medical services, it was also known for boisterous parties frequented by touring Vaudeville actors. One can imagine the scene here as the night unfolded with flowing drinks, dancing, card games and underground boxing matches. The Fraternal Order of the Eagles left the building during the Great Depression, then from the 1950s – 1980s, it was home to Equitable Life & Casualty Insurance Company. In the 1990s, the building went through a major renovation becoming the Bay, followed by a decade of revolving dance clubs. Remember Club Vortex and the swimming pool built for Club Splash? Before Fred and Aimee purchased the building, it sat vacant for several years, a ghost of good times past lurking on the corner of 400 S and West Temple.

The Eagle Building was not originally a stand-alone building, as it was part of a vibrant city block, across the street from the famed Newhouse Hotel. The building is a rare survivor from that block and a colorful era in Salt Lake City history. “We are thrilled to see the building renovated and readapted for new use,” David Amott, preservation programs director of Preservations Utah notes. “Improving the future of the building adds to the color and context of the city.”

Menus

The core menu at Caffé Molise will remain the same, featuring fresh Italian cuisine inspired by the Molise region of northern Italy. Look for daily and seasonal specials to supplement the existing offerings. With a commitment to local ingredients and handmade regional specialties, the restaurant has welcomed casual diners, convention goers and groups celebrating special occasions for 25 years in Downtown SLC. BTG Wine Bar will be able to spread its wings and expand offerings in this new location. A Wine Spectator-recognized bar, BTG Wine Bar has an incredible selection of wines managed by sommelier Louis Koppel. Wine is offered by the two-ounce taste, by the glass or by the bottle, in addition to a full bar with crafted cocktails and beer. This is Salt Lake City’s grown-up place to relax for wine snobs and novices alike. In its new space, BTG will have a dedicated kitchen offering an expanded menu of bites and meals. The additional space will host wine pairing dinners, tasting events and wine education.

With construction nearly complete and finishing touches coming together, the project is slated to open this summer. Join the locals and visitors gathering here to embrace old world cuisine in a building brimming with old world charm. May we raise our glasses with a celebratory “Saluti” and enjoy the pleasantries of a Salt Lake City summer night.

404 S. West Temple

Caffé Molise
M-Th 11:30 am – 9 pm
F-Sa 11:30 am – 10 pm
Sun 11:30 am – 9 pm
caffemolise.com

BTG Wine Bar
Every day, 5 pm – 1 am
btgwinebar.com

When is the last time you acted like a tourist in your own city? It’s easy to get caught up in the monotony of day to day life, which can make you forget to explore where you live. Fortunately, you are not far from the perfect getaway - downtown Salt Lake! Now is the time to plan a downtown staycation for your friends or family and enjoy local attractions you may have overlooked, or taken for granted.

Girls Getaway

So you finally have a weekend free, and so do your friends...this calls for a girls getaway! Put your schedules on pause and grab that opportunity to head to Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City (15 West 200 South) for a staycation full of R & R, delectable bites and memorable fun.

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This upscale boutique hotel sits in the heart of downtown and showcases modern decor, blissful bedding, animal-print robes and the finest Atelier Bloem bath and body amenities. Once the squad arrives, take advantage of this much-needed downtime with the ladies to unpack, order room service, catch up on life and plan your weekend adventures. After reveling in the fact that you pulled this retreat off, explore the hotel’s offerings. The hotel’s health-conscious perks include a high-performance 24-hour fitness center, yoga mats and custom-designed PUBLIC bikes for you to borrow. Guests can arrange to have spa services, including massages and facials, brought directly to their rooms.

Housed in the hotel’s historic Continental Bank lobby, Bambara serves seasonally inspired New American cuisine (think pan-roasted and grilled meats plus skillfully prepared seafood and game) and historic architecture. Friends looking to quench their thirst can enjoy hosted nightly wine receptions in the lobby or grab a specialty drink from the award-winning bar menu at The Vault. When it’s time to hit the town, let Salt City Cycle Cab take your crew around on an unforgettable pedicab adventure through downtown’s dining and entertainment district. Share tapas at Martine (22 East 100 South), make a toast to good friends and delectable gastropub fare at Gracie’s (326 South West Temple) or spice it up with Latin American street food at Taqueria27 (149 East 200 South). Remember to save some room for locally-crafted goodies at Last Course (115 South Regent Street) ice cream and dessert studio.

Polish the evening off with live music at The Depot (400 West South Temple), a Ballet West or Utah Opera performance at Capitol Theater (50 West 200 South) or an exciting Utah Jazz game or concert at Vivint Smart Home Arena (301 South Temple).

A girls weekend is incomplete without an escape to the spa or a shopping spree. Round up the ladies for a day of pampering and relaxing at Sanctuary Day Spa (42 South Rio Grande Street). Hot stone massages, spa facials, mani/pedi combos and designer haircuts and styles are just a sampling of what this full-service spa and salon offers. Window shopping is taken to the next level at City Creek Center (50 South Main Street). This retail experience is one of a kind, showcasing over 100 diverse stores and restaurants, including Nordstrom, Macy's, Tiffany & Co., Michael Kors and lululemon, all in a casual, pedestrian-friendly environment. Shop ‘til you drop and then head back to the hotel and reminisce about your weekend escapades.

Couples Retreat

Need a break with your honey but can't travel far? An escape to Hilton Salt Lake City Center (255 South West Temple) gives couples the opportunity to leave reality behind and reconnect, all in the comfort of your own town.

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Conveniently located in the center of downtown, the 18-floor Hilton Salt Lake City Center boasts 19 luxury suites featuring king-size beds, plush linens, posh European bathtubs, separate sitting areas and breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains. Couples can make the most of their staycation and maximize time away with an early check-in or late check-out. If leaving Fido at home gets you down, pets are invited to stay at the hotel. A relaxing soak in the hotel’s hot tub or a refreshing swim in the heated indoor pool are sure to kickoff your getaway. Kick back in a chaise lounge on the seasonal sundeck (open May - Sept.) and feel the tension fade. If a workout is on the agenda, the fully-equipped fitness center caters to any fitness needs. Don't miss an intimate dinner for two at Spencer’s for Steaks and Chops, the Best of State-awarded restaurant and winner of the 2017 Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence. Located in the hotel, this Salt Lake City staple delivers contemporary and seasonal dishes, hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, local produce and cheeses as well as classically inspired cocktails, local craft beers and an award-winning wine list that has kept locals coming back for two decades.

Feeling adventurous? Hilton Salt Lake City Center’s downtown location is within walking distance to a plethora of ethnic eateries. Finca (327 West 200 South) serves Spanish tapas and dishes, Valter's Osteria (173 West Broadway) offers a taste of Tuscany and Takashi (18 West Market Street) creates rolls to make any sushi-lover swoon. Dinner and a show go hand-in-hand and there is no better place to find that combo than downtown. Catch a Broadway production or concert at the new Eccles Theater (131 South Main Street) or treat yourselves to a Utah Symphony performance at Abravanel Hall (123 West South Temple). If you’re looking for a laugh, Wiseguys at the Gateway (194 South 400 West) comedy club has you covered.

Try something new and take a cooking class at Harmons Grocery (135 East 100 South) and learn how to make your own romantic dinner! Fresh and local produce and products sold at The Downtown Farmers Market (350 West 300 South) during the summer and fall months will inspire your next culinary masterpiece. A relaxing stroll through The Gateway’s (400 West 100 South) open-air retail and dining district promises the downtime that you both deserve.

Family Escape

Planning a family vacation is not for the faint of heart (think pitstops, juggling the circuit of movies and snacks and enduring the chorus of “are we there yets?” echoing from the back seats). While getting out of town can be daunting, a family staycation at Radisson Hotel Salt Lake City Downtown (215 West South Temple) can be the answer to many of the typical traveling woes.

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Radisson Hotel Salt Lake City Downtown is the perfect homebase for your family’s next retreat. Spacious, contemporary rooms and suites, outfitted with comfy beds and unique headboards that feature artwork by prominent pop artists, allow your clan to spread out and feel right at home. Even your four-legged family member is welcome at this pet-friendly destination. After settling in, vacation mode begins when you hit the indoor heated swimming pool. The kids are certain to burn some energy while parents soak in the adjoining hot tub and unwind in the onsite sauna. If you want to get your sweat on, check out the fully-equipped fitness center. Playing stirs up an appetite and feeding the brood is simple with the hotel’s onsite family dining options. In-room dining brings the goodies to you, offering an extensive menu including several kid-friendly bites. The hotel’s Copper Canyon Grill House & Tavern serves casual American-style fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Pre-dinner and late-night drinks flow at the tavern and the in-house coffee shop has fresh brews to get you going in the morning.

With so many amenities offered at this hotel, it’s hard to find a reason to leave. However, if you want to venture out, family-friendly eateries are just outside the door. Try Bruges Waffles & Frites (336 West Broadway) for both sweet and savory lovers, grab a bite at Rich's Burgers-N-Grub (30 East Broadway), savor a home-style meal with a slice of history at The Lion House Pantry (63 East South Temple) or simply head over to City Creek Center where over 20 dining options satisfy any palate or pocketbook.

Be a tourist in your own backyard with the Visit Salt Lake Connect Pass, an all-in-one ticket to 13 of Salt Lake’s best attractions. This passport includes admission to Clark Planetarium’s (209 East 500 South) 3D IMAX and Dome Theatre, Discovery Gateway’s (444 West 100 South) hands-on children’s museum and The Leonardo’s (209 East 500 South) science and art exhibits, just to name a few. Buy your pass at visitsaltlake.com. It’s possible to get back to nature, even in the city. Feast your eyes on the gardens at the 35-acre Temple Square, take a hike in nearby City Creek Canyon or explore the downtown scene on a GREENbike.

No matter the reason for your staycation, you may find that you've been living in a tourist's paradise all along!

When guests step into Whiskey Street off Salt Lake’s downtown Main Street, they are instantly transported into a land where as many as 150 whiskeys from around the world come together in a warm, welcoming environment with southern-inspired food that holds its own.

Housed in a grand old building from the early 1900s, Whiskey Street takes its name from the stretch of road it now resides on. Designated as Whiskey Street by Brigham Young, the area between 200 and 400 South once housed the saloons, breweries, billiard clubs and parlor houses of the city where gentiles were able to quench their thirst. 

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With an eye to history and a sense of what could be, Whiskey Street became the second undertaking of The Bourbon Group—but the one that was destined to make locals and visitors stand up and take notice. “I wanted to build a bar that would rival any great bar in any big city in this country,” explains Jason LeCates, managing partner with The Bourbon Group, which also owns Bourbon House in the bottom of the Walker Building and Whiskey Street’s next-door neighbor, White Horse. Having spent several years working in the liquor industry in Seattle, LeCates took all the things he saw Salt Lake was missing at the time—a lack of appreciation for a great back bar and a huge wall of fine whiskey and other spirits—and put them all together to craft Whiskey Street. The results he says, “made our guests feel like they were in a bar you’d see in Boston or New York City.”

Now celebrating its fifth year of operation, LeCates is still gratified by Utahns’ initial response to the completed project. “Our customers were so stoked and proud that Salt Lake had grown up a bit with the opening of Whiskey Street.” And grow it did. Almost immediately, Whiskey Street became a standing-room-only affair on the weekends with patrons queuing behind the 72-foot-long cherry wood bar for a selection from the impressive spirits collection on display. But, the real surprise behind Whiskey Street might be the food. “Even though we’re primarily a bar we always focus just as much on food as we do drinks,” states LeCates. And convention goers, business people and locals of every stripe have gotten the message, flocking to the bar for lunch, dinner, late-night and brunch outings on a regular basis.

The Bourbon Group’s Executive Chef Matt Crandall has full creative control and direction at Whiskey Street and each restaurant within The Bourbon Group. “I wanted to have a little Southern influence without it being a Southern-style menu,” Crandall says of Whiskey Street’s concept. “I wanted it to be a place people could dine at comfortably and consistently. I also wanted to focus on the food being able to pair well with whiskey and bourbon.”

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Diners at Whiskey Street will find that not only does every item on the menu suggest a spirit pairing, they will also find beer and wine matches, too. In this formula, The Bourbon Group has solidified what their brand stands for, described by LeCates as, “Matt’s cuisine, a great whiskey selection and craft cocktails.”

Crandall’s inspiration behind all of The Bourbon Group’s menus comes from his grandfather who founded Hires Big H—a Utah food institution. “His philosophy was always fresh, quality ingredients done in-house. We use that philosophy; and if we can make it in house, we will. That’s why we take the time to cure and smoke our meats, make ketchup, etc., and do whatever we can to make or use the best product available.” Whether guests are sharing the decadent deviled eggs filled with creamy pimento cheese yolks dressed with crispy double-smoked bacon and pickled mustard seed that’s finished with bourbon-smoked paprika and fresh chive, or diving into the roasted corn crab chowder studded with roasted corn and vegetables along with fresh crab and a flourish of smoked paprika oil, each dish is memorable in its execution and flavor profile.

“My favorite item on the menu is the bourbon buffalo chili,” Crandall says. “I could eat it every day. It has black beans, buffalo, three types of roasted chilies, bourbon and then its topped with fontina and cilantro crème fraiche.” What’s clear is that Whiskey Street doesn’t serve typical bar food yet there’s still something for everyone here. Whereas the short rib grilled cheese will melt even the most ruthless businessman’s façade, the bourbon and coke meatloaf could charm its way into any grandma’s heart.

And even for visitors who want only to enjoy a dram or a cocktail, there’s still bourbon bacon caramel popcorn or curried cashews, Moroccan-spiced peanuts and pecans for snacking. Appreciated from a towering booth along the north wall or the open-air patio at the entrance, the care and thought of every design decision at Whiskey Street—from the inclusion of more than 20 different woods into the interior to the careful curation of quality spirits—has placed the establishment at the forefront of Utah’s growing bar scene and resulted in its tremendous popularity among locals and visitors.

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However, the truth is that Whiskey Street still might never have come to be without the help of Vasilios Priskos—a real estate developer who served as The Bourbon Group’s landlord and ultimately a beloved community leader and champion of downtown Salt Lake City.

“Vasilios Priskos was hands down one of the greatest men I’ve ever met. If it wasn’t for Vasilios’ faith in me, Whiskey Street would have never happened, at least in that space,” recalls LeCates. “We needed that type of space to create what we did. When we approached Vasilios and Eric Fuhrman about leasing the space they had already accepted a letter of intent from another tenant. Vasilios saw our vision and knew we’d be successful. Not only did he like our concept, he knew it was a great thing for Main Street. I miss him a great deal. He loved this city very much.”

Like Priskos and LaCates himself, Whiskey Street and The Bourbon Group have brought marked change to not only one block of Main Street in downtown Salt Lake, but to Utah’s culture as a whole. “Whiskey Street taught us that people in Utah were starting to demand the absolute highest quality in every aspect of their drinking and dining experience,” LeCates concludes. And that’s something we can all raise a glass too.

Seven Questions with Christianna Johnson, Program and Grant Manager for Urban Food Connections of Utah. When she's not at the Downtown Farmers Market, see how this Idaho native spends her time in downtown SLC!

What is your first or fondest memory of downtown? 

I'm originally from Pocatello, Idaho, and moved to Salt Lake City to attend the University of Utah. So one of my first memories of downtown was taking a trip to Salt Lake with my high school friends to see Modest Mouse perform at Pioneer Park for the first concert of the 2010 SLC Twilight Concert series. My friends and I were so excited to see one of our favorite bands perform and thought it was an amazing show. Compared to my hometown of Pocatello, downtown Salt Lake City seemed like such an amazing and exciting place. Eight years later, I still think it is. 

What is your favorite thing about downtown?

My favorite thing about downtown is that it feels welcoming to everyone regardless of their background or reason for being there. Whether you take TRAX to see all the lights during the holiday season or you ride your bike to see a show at the Depot, you know that you will feel welcome. 

How will downtown SLC look and feel differently five years from now?

I hope that five years from now there are more engaging public spaces, more people on the streets (especially at night), there are more people using active transit, there are more affordable housing options, and a public market is thriving. 

If you could change one thing about Salt Lake City, what would it be and why?

I would like to see more people biking and walking to get places downtown. 

Friend or family is coming to town, asking for entertainment recommendations. What three places do you send them to?

If you're looking for a more relaxing fun night out, I would recommend checking out a concert at the Eccles Theater, seeing a movie at the Broadway Theater, or enjoying a craft beer at Beer Bar. There are so many other fun bars in downtown SLC as well. 

What's your favorite day of the year downtown?

My favorite day of the year downtown is the opening day of the Downtown Farmers Market. It's great to see all the local farmers and small businesses being supported—not to mention I love enjoying all the delicious food on a beautiful summer day. 

When you are not working or playing downtown, what do you do for fun or entertainment?

When I'm not working or playing downtown, I am taking as many trips as I can. Whether that's visiting Utah's national parks or enjoying all that other big cities in the US and other countries have to offer, I always enjoy experiencing and learning from new places.
 
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Opening Soon

Campos Coffee | Campos has 7 flagship Campos Coffee cafes, roasteries in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and an amazing network of partner cafes across Australia. They have at least one social project in each region we buy from. They’ve built a school building in Papua New Guinea. They’ve purchased a large tractor for a coffee farming co-op in Kenya and built hundreds of drying beds. They’ve been major funders in Open Heart – a program that sends Australian heart surgeons to Rwanda to perform life-saving operations on children that would otherwise have no access to cardiovascular specialists. They are major supporters of a school building project in Ethiopia to house 1000 students and a school library in El Salvador. And these are just some of the many social projects they’re proud to have played a part in with the Campos Coffee history.

Este Deli | 238 S Main  | Eleven years ago Dave Heiblim brought New York Style Pizza to Salt Lake. Since its inception, Este Pizza has opened three locations (Sugarhouse, Downtown & Park City) and has won the Salt Lake City Weekly’s readers poll for “Best Pizza” numerous times. Locals and East Coast transplants alike can testify to the authenticity of Este’s offerings. Now Este is bringing “Deli” to Utah and offering an array of classic sandwiches from the East Coast and beyond. Classics hoagies include the Italian, Cheesesteak, Buffalo Chicken and Chicken, Eggplant and Meatball Parmesan.

LaBarba Coffee |  The Gateway | They make one of the best cups of coffee in Utah—and maybe the West. And now, they are moving their downtown location to The Gateway. LaBarba Coffee has announced plans to open its newest location in the heart of downtown’s up-and-coming sports and entertainment district, set to open Spring 2018.

London Belle | 319 South Main Street | From those that brought you downtown hits like Pleiku and the short-lived SoCo, London Belle is anticipated to open in the spring. Named after one of Utah’s most high profile madames, it is located near the historic Boston and Newhouse Buildings. Taking the place of SoCo, this upscale bar will feature a diverse menu with unique offerings and craft cocktails. #redlightslc

MidiCi Neapolitan Pizza | The Gateway | MidiCi has made a name for itself by offering authentic Neapolitan thin crust pizza, baked in handmade wood-fired ovens imported from Italy—right in the center of its restaurants—so that patrons can see exactly what goes into everything they make.

Sicilia Mia | 8 East Broadway | According to Salt Lake Magazine, “This is the Italian restaurant Salt Lake has been waiting for!” The downtown location will be opening late October/ early November. 

Recently Opened

Dave and Busters | The Gateway | The Gateway has announced the opening of entertainment and dining chain Dave and Buster’s, which is now open! 

Access Salt Lake | 175 W 200 South Ste. 100 | An emerging co-working space that connects small businesses and entrepreneurs with the resources and network they need to grow and incubate their businesses. 

Cupla Coffee | 175 West 200 South Inside the Axis Business Building | Identical twins, Abigail Purdie and Bethany Heath are the dynamic duo behind Utah’s one and only Cupla Coffee House. “We pride ourselves on sourcing our green bean from a lovely selection of quality coffee plantations from around the world. Our beans are organic, fair trade and shade grown. We rotate our coffee according to availability, seasonality, and supply. Along with being a high altitude roastery which allows Cupla to create deliciously unique flavors and quality notes to our roasts, we are also a small batch, tabletop roasting company. This technique allows the beans to be precisely roasted and gives our company the ability to offer fresh and high-quality product every batch, every day.”

Doki Doki | 249 E 400 S | Rolled ice cream is starting to take off in a big way, and new eateries offering the tasty spirals of frozen goodness are finding ways to present them with something unexpected. At Doki Doki, which celebrated its grand opening at the tail end of February, they're rolling up their ice cream inside sweet Japanese crêpes. To drink, Doki Doki serves different cream teas, along with boba tea for those who like their beverages to have a bit of texture. Beat the summer rush and get there now.

Quarters Arcade Bar | 5 East 400 South | Located in the basement of the historic New Grand Hotel, Quarters is downtown Salt Lake City’s first beer arcade. Quarters provides a casual, comfortable gaming and social environment paired with craft cocktails and beer as well as familiar and affordable liquor and brews.

Soundwell | 149 West 200 South| Previously known as Club Elevate, this is Salt Lake’s newest music venue. Located in the heart of downtown, the fully remodeled space opened in April 2018 offering top-notch talent, and premium sound in an intimate 600 person venue.

True Gentleman Custom Suits | 281 S Weechquootee Plaza | Buying fine clothing should be an experience that is unlike any other! True Gentleman is turning men's fashion in custom tailored clothing into a lifestyle, not just a brand. We are continuously pushing the men's fashion industry to new heights and are changing the way people perceive the clothing buying experience specifically, bespoke suits. Founded in late 2013 True Gentleman has grown to be a nationwide brand with customers ranging from top executives, billboard music award winners, and professional athletes.

Seven questions with Jesse Dean, Director of Urban Development for the Downtown Alliance. See how downtown will look and feel differently in five years with downtown's development guru.

What is your first or fondest memory of downtown?

Oh, man! That's a tough one. My family has always been a big supporter of Tony Caputo and the Caputo's Gourmet Food Market and Deli. The memory that sticks out most to me is going down to his newly opened downtown location across from Pioneer Park. Tony had previously worked for Granato's Italian Deli but had decided to open his own business. I was what you'd call a "rambunctious" (to put it nicely) 10-year old and Tony had this line he'd say to me after years of seeing me tear through the Granato's shop. When we walked in, he'd say: "Jesse, this is my shop. You can do whatever you want in here. Because you know what? It doesn't really matter." The running joke in my family was that end line, "it doesn't really matter". If I knocked over a display or ran like a maniac through the store, Tony was there calming down my mom and reminding her that "it doesn't really matter." Although I didn't understand it at the time, Tony's business was the quintessential locally owned, family-friendly downtown business. Even when I see Tony today, he still reminds me of my youth and also his favorite catchphrase: "It doesn't really matter."

What is your favorite thing about downtown?

The people. I've worked at the Downtown Alliance for over 6 years and the people I've met through this job who are helping to shape our community are truly incredible. I must admit that our jobs at the Downtown Alliance are a bit weird. We can start our morning at Pioneer Park working with farmers market vendors from across the region and then having meetings with small business owners, property owners, developers, city employees and elected officials. These are disparate groups - but they are all united by one common factor: downtown. The passion they show for building a dynamic and diverse community makes coming into work everyday easy and rewarding. 

How will downtown SLC look and feel differently five years from now?

Downtown is developing at an unprecedented rate. The surface level parking lots of today will be office towers, residential units, hotels and retail locations in the future. Right now I think downtown is essentially divided in half between the East-side development and West-side development. Projects like Block 67 from the Ritchie Group, the Convention Center Hotel and Station Center will help to create a more cohesive, walkable downtown that is even more vibrant than what we see today. 

If you could change one thing about Salt Lake City, what would it be and why?

Salt Lakers have a chip on their shoulders based on inaccurate perceptions of our community from the outside. I think we too often want to replicate what's happening in other urban centers across the country vs. asking ourselves what is authentic to our identity as a city. I'm proud to be a native of Salt Lake City. Authenticity and ownership of your community, despite your own perceptions of its flaws, is the one thing I would change. 

Friend or family is coming to town, asking for entertainment recommendations. What three places do you send them to?

Another tough one! I'm going to take the evening out on the town route. I would have them start at Copper Common for a cocktail and a shared plate of their incredible wings. From there, I'd send them up Main Street to Martine. My wife worked at Martine for a short stint when she first moved here from Chicago so it has a special place in my heart. The restaurant is located in a historic brownstone and for the architecture nerds out there it is located next to (literally touching) Salt Lake City's newest office tower, 111 Main. After Martine, I'd send them to the brand new Eccles Theater just down the street to catch a Broadway show, touring musician or comedy routine. 

What's your favorite day of the year downtown?

The first day of the Downtown Farmers Market. I love watching Pioneer Park come alive with the bustle of vendors, patrons and music along with 10,000 friends of downtown. 

When you are not working or playing downtown, what do you do for fun or entertainment?

I love the proximity of our foothills and mountains right out our back door. You can find me running with my dogs, hiking, mountain biking or skiing.

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.   

Seven questions with Tyler Bloomquist, Artistic Director for the Cultural Core. Where does this Salt Lake native see our city in five years? Find out in our latest staff profile.

What is your first or fondest memory of downtown?

First engrained memory of downtown was seeing the abstracted Arches mural at Dinwoody Plaza on 100 S. between Main and West Temple when I was either 7 or 8 years old, wondering how it was done and wanting to do something just like it. Fondest memory would be a tie between the many hours spent skateboarding, drawing, and people watching at the old SLC courthouse, what is now the downtown SLC Library/Library Square and sharing a late night tour around downtown with the artist Barry McGee.

What is your favorite thing about downtown?

Whether it be on the buildings, the neighborhoods, or the people, my favorite thing are the faces; both old and new.

How will downtown SLC look and feel differently five years from now?

I envision an engaging and welcoming street atmosphere that puts people first; inviting public spaces, interactive wayfinding, innovative decision making, and a density of diversity, all lead by the efforts and energy of our creative community.

If you could change one thing about Salt Lake City, what would it be and why?

It’s passive-aggressive nature because it’s an obvious waste of time and doesn’t do anyone any good.

Friend or family is coming to town, asking for entertainment recommendations. What three places do you send them to?

High-energy = FICE for a new pair of sneakers to explore the city / SLC Library rooftop for the view / Memory Grove for a hike while still being in the city

Low-energy = Broadway Theaters for a film / Rio Gallery, UMOCA, and Modern West for art and historical design / Ken Sanders Rare Book for vintage postcards, reading material and the aroma of ink on paper

Food/drink = Gourmandise / Junior’s / Eva’s

Even though it’s not downtown = Gilgal Gardens

What's your favorite day of the year downtown?

The first warm, sunny Saturday of Spring. Everyone is out rocking their styles, sharing time with friends, seeing and being seen. The city has a certain contagious buzz and the shared goal of soaking in the sun, it’s a beautiful feeling.

When you are not working or playing downtown, what do you do for fun or entertainment?

Paint/draw, sit and people watch with a notebook and pen handy, watch films, read, consume music, consume culture, walk around the city, travel as much as possible - sometimes via GoogleEarth, basketball, coffee with friends and family, and plot with my wife Shalee.