Joshua Jones
Bars, Barbers, Boba, and Burritos
OPEN THE VAULT!
Hotel Monaco has finished its top-to-bottom renovation, including one of our favorite bars, The Vault. The once-tiny bar is a bit bigger, amping up the sophistication, but retaining all the charm of its former self. And, all you blue-cheese-potato-chip fans, Chef Patrick LeBeau updated the dish with fresh-fried Idaho potato chips accompanying a smoked blue cheese, Monterrey jack dip. (It’s delish).
From the folks behind The People’s Coffee and right across the street (inside The Randi) comes The Block Barbershop. This newest edition at Second and Second only adds to the vibrancy of the neighborhood–especially with that awesome neon! Road construction is finished, there are a ton of interesting shops, bars, restaurants, and a new liquor store is just a few months away… is 2nd and 2nd rivaling 9th and 9th?
Private event space, The Tasting Room near The Gateway on 200 South has applied to become a bar, operating under the same name. Intriguing… We love how the owners have finished the 1900’s Goodyear Rubber Factory with beautiful exposed brick and wood. We are excited for the convivial possibilities in this gem.
A stone’s throw up the street, the former Finca/George property is getting some love from a venerable Park City restaurateur. The location in Park City has many, many accolades. We might live across the street from these two downtown additions. We will try to contain our excitement.
We will keep an eye on these... A sign appeared this week inside the Judge Building on the corner of Broadway and Main Street: “New York Pizza Kitchen, coming spring 2024.” Killer–we mean killer–location, this place should print money when they open. Down the street between Cupbop and Kaze Sushi, another ‘coming soon’ wrap has appeared for Boba Tea. The beloved Thai shop on south temple Sawadee opened Sawadee 2Go seemingly overnight on Gallivan Avenue. Next door Kafé Mamai will have opened by the time you read this. The African-Caribbean food truck puts down stakes and offers up their jerk cheeseburgers and sambusas
Next to Main Street’s 222 Building, Mali Thai is sometimes overlooked. It has been rebranded as SHIM. Check them out—the lunch specials offer some delicious curries.
SHH!
We’re burying this one a bit. Citizen is still in a soft opening period, but that’s not the reason we put it at the end of our column. It is a charming little neighborhood bar inside the new Lotus Republic on 300 East near South Temple. Views of downtown from the patio are picturesque, the bar itself is gorgeous, and very kind bartenders are interested and interesting. See why we’d want to keep it to ourselves? 
This Week Downtown
GET A HOTEL ROOM!!!
YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS A MINUTE ON MAIN AND DOWNTOWN THIS WEEKEND
Celebrate Mexican Independence Day at 7:30 at Gallivan Center with a free concert by El Grupo Natural. You’ll sway, swoon, and salsa to ranchera, pop, and a little mariachi from this talented and energetic band!
Open Streets returns for a fall edition this Friday! Main Street will turn into an urban playground every Friday and Saturday from noon ‘til 2am! Each weekend brings delightful surprises, like free yoga, pop-up parks, silent disco, urban golf, and lots of free concerts! Check out the full list of fun!
Utah Symphony opens its season with Dvořák’s New World Symphony. Neil Armstrong loved this piece so much he played a recording of it on the moon! The work is paired with two of our favorites: Ravel’s Bolero and Barber’s Violin Concerto. (Friday and Saturday, $17).
NEON RODEO returns! A one-of-a-kind showcase of electrifying music, art, and creativity at the crossroads of the West. Giddyup! (Friday through Saturday)
The confetti cannon of fun explodes at Open Streets with SLAM Block Party 5-8pm. Come see Lionfish and the Salt Lake Academy of Music play a free concert at Main Street and Gallivan Center!
Ciao Bella! Once we had the best gnocchi of our life at Festa Italiana, and we’re determined to find that vendor again this weekend at The Gateway. Utah’s Italian community brings Italian beer and wine, live bands, sports cars, street performers, and yes, delicious food trucks to The Gateway, Saturday and Sunday, 12-7 FREE.
Come for the food, stay for the music at Gallivan’s Rock ‘N’ Ribs! Black Smoke Gypsy, The American Hitmen, and Andrew Boss headline the musical acts. Around the plaza there will be face painting, bounce houses, a merchant marketplace, and plates of ribs starting at just $3!
UNITY Block Party is an inclusive, art-centric event with headliner and social media phenomenon, INKIO. The event will raise money to establish an innovation hub for creative professionals in Salt Lake City. Get your ticket online and then head to Library Square 2-11pm to hear a line-up of 12 artists, $55.
See you at the Market!
THE BLOCKS: CALL FOR ARTIST
CALL FOR ARTISTS
Artist Allowance: $8,000
Entry Deadline: Friday, August 18, 2023, by 11:59 PM
Completion Deadline: Wednesday, September 6, 2023
Entry Materials: 1) Digital portfolio in PDF format. 2) a short description of why you would like to be considered for the project. 3) A proposed concept for the project
ABOUT THIS PROJECT
The location is on Main Street between 100 S and 200 S (see photos below) in Salt Lake City. It is one east-facing wall and is approximately 74’ 8” long and 7’ 6” tall or 560 square feet.
A successful mural proposal should celebrate downtown with vibrant colors, showcasing the community and the people that make up Salt Lake City.
The mural project is envisioned as having a public participation element. It may take a paint-by-numbers approach, wherein the selected artist or team will design the mural with aspects of the painting that can be completed alongside community members. The participation element can take on many shapes, however, and applications are encouraged to suggest interesting ways to involve or represent the community.
THE BLOCKS is seeking portfolios and/or proposals from local artists and designers to design and install a large-scale mural. Proposals that include public participation elements are preferred. The call is open to Utah artists and artist-led teams. Those new to the public art process or artists and designers working outside of the traditional mural process are also highly encouraged to apply.
DETAILS
The vision for this project is to include an element for the community to contribute to the mural in some way. The selected artist will be responsible for the installation of their design including:
- Preparing the wall for painting
- Painting the mural
- Preparing any elements for community participation as necessary
The active dimensions of the wall are outlined below. Visiting the space to get an idea of scale and environment is highly suggested before applying.
LOCATION NOTE:
This site is privately owned and the owner will have the right to remove the mural at any time. The owner will have the final approval of the artwork and will be a part of the selection committee.
REVIEW PROCESS AND CRITERIA
The total commission for the selected artist or team is $8,000. Payment will be made as follows: an advance payment of $4,000 (50%) upon artist selection, design approval and signing a contract; the second payment of $4,000 will be made upon completion of the mural.
SUBMISSION
Please send to . Submissions must be in PDF format. Submissions are due Friday, August 11, 2023, by 5 PM.
1) Digital portfolio in PDF format.
2) A short description of why you would like to be considered for the project.
3) A proposed concept for the project
WE LOOK FORWARD TO REVIEWING YOUR SUBMISSIONS
This mural is a project of THE BLOCKS, an initiative of Salt Lake City & County. THE BLOCKS is Salt Lake’s Cultural Core. It represents the highest concentration of arts, culture, events, activities and entertainment in Utah. It is an invitation to explore and discover. It is a promise to support the arts and build audiences.
CELEBRATE 801 DAY!
Since 1947, 801 has been a numeric moniker for Utah. This Tuesday, August 1, Downtown Alliance and Visit Salt Lake invite Utah to celebrate 801 Day with free concerts, downtown discounts, and a joyous carnival of community.
Signing an official proclamation, Mayor Erin Mendenhall stated: “I encourage residents, community organizations, and businesses to join in the celebration and demonstrate their pride for our city. I further urge residents and visitors to take this opportunity to explore the unique neighborhoods and support local restaurants, bars, and shops in ‘The 801.’”
In a joint statement, Kaitlin Eskelson, Visit Salt Lake president and CEO and Dee Brewer, Executive Director of Downtown Alliance said, “801 Day provides an opportunity to celebrate our city’s unity and contributions of the people, businesses, and social institutions that make our city exceptional.”
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801 DAY SCAVANGER HUNT!
To celebrate the City’s overwhelming pride in The 801, Mayor Mendenhall will release clues on social media as part of an 801 Day Scavenger Hunt, with special city pride swag bags stashed across Salt Lake City. Follow @slcmayor to get in on all the action Tuesday morning!
801 DAY BUSKERS!
Downtown Alliance and Visit Salt Lake will animate Downtown on Tuesday with live music from street corners from 11:30am to 1:30pm.
- REGENT & 100: NATHAN & JULIETTE
- MAIN & 100: THE BACKYARD REVIVAL
- MAIN & 200: FULL BLOWN HORNS
- MAIN & 300: MARCELO REARTE
- STATE & 200: RAS THE ROBOT
At 7:30pm, Excellence in the Community welcomes all to a free concert with Riverton Big Band at Gallivan Center. Enjoy this big brass ensemble from the grass, or bring your dancing shoes and boogie all night!
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801 DAY DISCOUNTS!
Several downtown businesses and organizations have offered 801 specials, including:
- The Local Market + Bar will offer a Pop's Classic Smash Burger for $8.01 from Pop’s Burgers.
- At the Salt Lake Bees, get 4 tickets for $20 and 50% off regular hot dogs and regular fountain drinks. Visit website and select "Buy Special Ticket."
- The Shop Workspace has a promo day pass for $8.01.
- Aqua Terra at City Creek Center: lunch: $8.01 Half Chicken Club or Half BLT Sandwich w/ Fries + Half House Roll; dinner: $8.01 Half House Rolls + Edamame appetizer.
- KRCL will dedicate a full day to Utah music and our community's diverse music scene. KRCL's 801 Day highlights music from all across the Beehive State.
- Market Street and Oyster Bar will offer double frequent diner points to all current and new diner participants.
- Register Tuesday for the first Rock and Roll Marathon in Salt Lake City happening August 18-19 and get the following discounts: Half Marathon: $85 vs. $129 with code SLCHALF801; 5K: $45 vs. $69 with code SLC5K801
- City Cast Salt Lake will raise a glass to your favorite area code at Second Summit Cider from 7-8:30. Free pickleball and the release of 8/01 Day Second Summit x City Cast Peach Ginger Cider!
- Maize Taco: 2 tacos + drink for $8.01
- In the 801 and want to add your celebration? Email
801 DAY is amplified by:
Good News/Bad News
Ramen Bar has closed (It was recently voted as the 5th best ramen in Salt Lake County. If you’re hankering, Ramen 930 is also on the same list at 45 East Broadway). The good news: Los Tapatios Taco Grill has signed a lease for the space, between London Belle and Eva, and will bring their tasty birria-style taco to a block that brims with the beefy stew, including Santo Taco, and Monarca. Word is that Los Tapatios will be open late to satiate the boozy bar patrons on that block.
I'm BAACK!
After an extensive reno, Bambara at Hotel Monaco reopens this week! The restaurant is once again comfortable and gorgeous, and Chef Patrick LeBeau's new modern bistro menu is filled with local flavors and ingredients. Bambara has always been a trendsetter, and with this reopening, a new era begins. In the fall, the bar will reopen, expanded and with a dedicated entrance on 200 south!
Power Lunch is Back
Up the block, Aqua Terra has comfortably warmed into their new and stylish home inside City Creek Center. Ascend Hospitality is the Washington-state restaurant group that also owns Famous Dave’s BBQ. This is their fifth high-end concept and their first in Utah. We’ve been asking them to open for lunch, and… tada… today we got word that it has happened. Highlights include SLC Steak Frites with bison tips, chimichurri sauce, and pickled vegetables; and Rocky Mountain Melt: a bison patty with caramelized onions, roasted mushrooms, swiss cheese on marbled rye. YUM! Check out the full menu.
Claypots Caribbean Grill (a business incubated at the Downtown Farmers Market) has opened a brick and mortar shop in one of the most unique spaces downtown. Walk through the door at 268 South Main Street… nope, don’t go to Vape On Main downstairs or the People’s Bar upstairs… head through the tiny bodega, Market on Main. Up the ramp in the back you’ll find Chef Michelle and her two kids serving simple island fare at down to earth prices. You’ll be pleased by the food… and the experience!
We’ve been interested in what is happening in the former Ginger Street space at State and Broadway. Rumors of something truly unique for SLC have been swirling. Today, Gastronomic has more details: Sayonara, from the owner of Tradition by Liberty Park, wants to replicate the feel of a back alley Tokyo bar with a highly themed restaurant and lounge… intriguing!
Kelly Howard has signed a lease for the Bourbon House space, in the basement of the Walker Center. Howard owns Prohibition, in Murray and plans to call this location Repeal. A full remodel is in the works for a kitchen-focused concept.
Wanting to spend less time at the bar, and more time at the barre? The GYM at City Creek is moving into the newly renovated 175 building on West Temple. This building is easy to overlook, but with ample onsite parking and City Creek Dental onsite (our fav), we think downtown residents are going to get to know the corner well.
Coffee, Cocktails, Poké, Pork and Tiki
ON THE STREET MAY
Who is ready for Water Witch Bar 2.0? The trio behind the 900 south, James Beard-nominated location are expanding downtown. A remarkable location, the hidden and historic Cramer House, part of the recently opened Aster project. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the House was built in 1890 by Christopher Cramer, a Danish immigrant who ran a floral shop. There will be significant upgrades before they’re slinging their spirits. In the meantime, you can anticipate several other developments at The Aster, including a sushi restaurant.
Comfortable and cosmopolitan, Cupla Coffee has opened on 200 South next to Homecoming Southern Kitchen–and it is gorgeous! We wandered over on opening day and were greeted like a long-time friend. Cozy furniture, a library wall, great coffee, and genuine, friendly service. What more can you ask for? Yes, we’ll tell you: the two gooey eggs, melty cheese, and smokey bacon on a croissant.
Doha, Dubai, and Ibiza. Coming soon to Salt Lake, STK, the international celebrity-endorsed steakhouse was teased at the ribbon cutting of phase one of The West Quarter. A clarion call of what Salt Lake residents are thirsty for, The West Quarter opens with Van Ryder, the sexy amber-lit rooftop bar and is complemented by French-themed Adalaide (don’t miss the oysters).
The “coming soon” sign for LemonShark Poké taunted us for months, then years. We almost gave up hope for the restaurant in The Judge Building, but happy to report the wait is over and reviews are in. The Downtown Ambassadors in the yellow jackets have named it one of their favorite lunch spots and a 4.8 rating on Google Reviews adds to the good publicity. If you’re at Gallivan Plaza, the path to poke is puny. In close proximity is Poke & Sushi Hut, Fresh Fin, and Uncle Shark!
Speaking of The Judge Building, we reported Robin’s Nest had flown the coop at their longtime roost. Thankfully, as the crow flies, they have cracked open in the DP Cheesesteak location on Broadway. People are raven about the new refuge. Don’t miss the turkey and smoked gouda.
Just barely percolating, someone is investing in the Ginger Street location at 324 South State. (Oh, how we miss those chicken tendies). Well-placed sources say it will be an elegant modern Japanese fusion restaurant. Intriguing–we will keep digging.
Mayor Voss has opened on Edison Street. We’ve loved this airy, light-filled urban gem since Campos Coffee renovated it to rave reviews. Don’t miss the pork belly bao with cucumber and hoisin, hoisted on a soft heated bun.
Speaking of Edison Street and warm buns, HOT BUNS is expected to open in the next month. Ryan Lowder adds to his culinary empire with this walk-up hamburger concept. It is enticing since Copper Onion’s burger is widely regarded as the best in the state.
Long time readers will surely note this writer’s interest in tiki. (Our previous installment broke the news of Neptune’s Palace coming to The Gateway in June). So, we are delighted to introduce you to Paradise Parlour, a tiki pop-up at Flanker. Renowned, globetrotting mixologist Francesco Lafranconi was commissioned to create the delicate Polynesian libations. These drinks are fun to imbibe, beautiful to look at, and incredibly sophisticated. Stuart at Gastronomic declares, “From the moment you walk through the door, it’s one of the most unique sensory experiences in Utah right now.” High praise!
11 NEW CONCEPTS AND ONE VENERABLE OUTLET HITS PAUSE
ON THE STREET MARCH
This week, we plan to check-out French-themed Adelaide at Le Meridien and Homecoming Southern Kitchen on 200 and West Temple. Follow our social media for our reports! In the meantime, here are some exciting openings to look forward to:
We begin where we left off in our last On The Street column: a mysterious bar on 400 South that is promising authentic tiki drinks and animatronics in a whimsically-themed world. Well, we now have a name and date: Neptune’s Palace is working towards an early summer opening (DABS-dependent). The name truly lives up to the Willy Wonka-meets-Hunter S. Thompson vibes that we’ve heard about through the rumor mill.
Highly-anticipated, The Local Market and Bar opened today! We got a sneak peek of the casual corner food hall with eight concepts at 310 East University Blvd and will be back soon. Highlights? Well, the bar of course, staffed with mixologists that made a fine Moscow Mule. Pop’s Burger served a deliciously moist cheesy burger on a spongy bun, and The Cereal Killerz’ has over 100 cereal styles from around the world, generously served over ice cream.
We’re excited that the 48-year-old Junior’s Tavern, a venerable drinking hole where denizens of all salaries rub shoulders with one another, has been purchased by Bob McCarthy from longtime owner, Greg Arata. Bob owns two of our other favorite places in town: Garage on Beck and Stoneground. We’ve heard he wants to polish the place but leave the best vestiges like the beer can collection, pool table, and even the film encyclopedia (it's a great way to strike up a conversation).
Hotel Monaco opened in 1999 and it remains near the top in our rolodex of recommendations: consistent quality at Bambara, considerate cocktails at The Vault, quirky and cozy rooms. But nearby competition from newly-opened Hyatt Regency, Element, and Le Meridien have convinced the brass that a full polish is due. Scheduled to begin in April and completed by late summer, the rehaul includes all 225 rooms, Bambara gets a facelift, and (we’re most excited about this) a dramatic and moody update and expansion to The Vault.
At City Creek Center, Ogden-founded Pearl Milk Tea Club has opened. Located near VRX Pharmacy, they will serve boba smoothies, pearl milk teas, and coffees. Also, another Utah company, Thread who makes slim wallets, will open soon next to Donovan Mitchell’s STANCE.
Brick and Mortar, a fine establishment on Edison Street has decided to cash in its chips and rebrand itself as Mayor Voss. Between the 1880’s and the 1920’s Edison Street was the heart of the Black community. Horace Voss was a influential Republican and served in the state capitol in 1903, his picture still hangs inside the senate chambers. After claiming domestic abuse and filing for divorce, Mayor Voss was murdered and the killer was caught (not his wife). For the full story, check out historian Rachel Quist’s and KUTV’s Jamie McGriff story.
Finally, late-breaking news that City Creek Center’s Chick-fil-a will be closed for renovations for a couple weeks. On the day we noticed it boarded up, mourners were discovering other food stalls at the food court, including Bocata, the pizza oven sandwich shop, as well as the venerable Taste of Red Iguana offering a daily special: mango enchiladas with rice and beans for the absurd price of $6.75. Two great local options to explore while the Chick is breaking those eggs.
ALL ABOARD THE FUN TRAIN!
NBA fans and locals riding UTA TRAX downtown during NBA All-Star Weekend will enjoy singers, musicians, comedians, magicians and friendly hosts on downtown trains.
Downtown Alliance has joined with Salt Lake City and Utah Transit Authority to program live entertainment inside TRAX trains during the NBA All-Star Weekend, February 17-19. TRAX passengers will find the hosts and performers on trains downtown from 6-10 pm, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. There are also entertaining public events programmed at Gallivan Center, The Salt Palace, and The Gateway during All-Star weekend. Train hosts with each performer will answer tourist’s questions and direct visitors to nearby destinations, restaurants, and activities. This mass-fun event will coincide with UTA’s zero fare week, February 12-21.
“We are thrilled to provide zero fare for the ten days surrounding the NBA All-Star events and the fun and exciting activities planned for parts of our transit system” UTA Board Chair Carlton Christensen said, “This is part of our efforts to support the community, boost Utah’s economy, and join with our partners in welcoming thousands of visitors to the region and to Utah. ”Downtown Alliance collaborator Bahaa Chmait, director of JOYMOB Events, has assembled a cadre of characters to charm passengers. “We design experiences that leave people feeling happier and more connected to those around them. We believe in creating community and belonging. That can happen in a boardroom, in a park, or even on a train. We’re thrilled to be part of the All-Star weekend fun,” he said.
“JOYMOB Events is one of many local surprises and delights we have planned for locals and visitors during All-Star weekend,” said Downtown Alliance executive director Dee Brewer. “Bahaa and his crew add magic to the fabric of Salt Lake with flash mobs, dance parties, and a love letter project that has been written about in The Washington Post.” Brewer added, “we are also grateful to UTA for their willingness to experiment with us in welcoming the world to Salt Lake City.”
Read more about Bahaa and JOYMOB Events at www.joymobevents.com
CENTRAL TO TRANSFORM GALLIVAN
A celebration of local art, music, and food, CENTRAL will reimagine Gallivan Plaza with a curated three-day experience over All-Star Weekend. Free, and welcoming to all ages, CENTRAL will run 1-10 pm, February 17, 18, and 19. CENTRAL is underwritten by Salt Lake City, Downtown Alliance, The Blocks, and Visit Salt Lake.
Norbert Bueno and his creative team at Bandah designed an immersive installation featuring 25 musicians and upcycled shipping containers with a museum-quality exhibit of local artists. “Our creative team referenced Utah landscapes, music, cultures, downtown’s urban environment and, of course, basketball in creating this experience.” said Bueno. Bueno’s previous collaborations with the Downtown Alliance include pop-up musical performances, roller disco on Main Street, and Groove at Gallivan. “I believe this will be a one-of-a-kind experience that will delight residents and visitors alike,” he said.
Vishwa Srinivasan of Alleyways Amplified is producing a generative A.I. film with local company Outtakes that tells stories about Salt Lake, to be projected on the Gallivan stage. And, Bahaa Chmait, director JOYMOB Events will sprinkle intriguing surprises, sure to produce wow-moments. Adorning the Gallivan grounds will be larger-than-life sculptures from artist Emily Nicolosi, and a sculpture produced just for this event by Isaac Gonzalez, and Norbert Bueno.
Some of Utah’s favorite food trucks and carts will serve their specialties during the three day celebration.
“We believe CENTRAL will be among the Salt Lake City surprises and delights that locals and visitors discover downtown during All-Star Weekend,” said Downtown Alliance executive director Dee Brewer.
Check this page for musician line-up, coming soon.
HOW TO SUNDANCE IN STYLE IN SLC
Did you know more people will watch Sundance premieres in Salt Lake than in Park City this year? Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center and Broadway Centre Cinemas will host dozens of screenings and for the first time, Megaplex at The Gateway joins as an official venue. But where to eat, drink, and party like Park City? We’ve got that covered too, including two official Sundance Lounges as well as swanky bars and restaurants where maybe you’ll get a glimpse of a Streep, Stiller, or Scorsese:
BROADWAY CENTRE CINEMAS
Showing more than 30 films, Broadway will be buzzing. Thankfully, parking will be easy at the multi-story garage just east of the theater. Have some time? Make reservations at Copper Onion–a Salt Lake stalwart that is still consistently delightful. Or, try something new at Franklin Ave like the Mafaldine–a duck ragu with poached egg, grana padano, and gremolata. Both restaurants are decadent, both offer items you’ll crave long after leaving, and both will require a reservation.
Are you racing from one preview to the next? Try Roctaco on Edison Street. The menu features unique tacos from around the globe and the flavors are out of this world. The interior is as creative as the ingredients–like the Meow Wolf of the taco world. Don’t fear if the line goes out the door–it moves quickly.
The new outpost of local’s favorite, Laziz Kitchen is another option for a fast casual bite. On Edison and 200 South, Lebanese food is served in a modern, airy cafe–don’t miss the muhammara and halloumi! And, be sure to discover the tiny speakeasy in the back, appropriately named, Back Door.
After the show, check out the official Sundance Lounge at Copper Common. Grab a cocktail and enjoy live entertainment that starts at 8 and 10 pm every night. A roster of local’s favorites include Michelle Moonshine, Sara Degraw, and Nate Spenser.
Need a late night nosh and not afraid to mingle with SLC’s late night denizens? Kitty-corner from Broadway is Pie Hole with cheap (and good) pizza-by-the-slice, canned beer, and oodles of personality.
ROSE WAGNER
The Rose is one of our favorite performing arts spaces in the heart of downtown. Here, you’re in the middle of steak city. Spencer’s For Steaks and Chops inside the Hilton is your classic carnivores castle with voluptuous red booths and mahogany lined walls. Nearby is Ruth’s Chris, but the closest to the theater is locally-owned Christopher’s Prime. Enjoy the filet mignon and amp it up with the bourbon peppercorn sauce.
Have less time and excited for that bio pic on Michael J. Fox or the doc on Stephen Curry? Head right across the street to the local institution known as Squatter’s; sit at the miles-long bar for friendly and quick service. In January, you can’t go wrong with a Full Suspension Pale Ale and bowl of Buffalo Chili topped with cheddar cheese.
The Rose is in a great location for after-show cocktails and conversation–especially at Post Office Place on Market Street. They specialize in Japanese Whiskys, but have a full bar. Soak up the martinis with a katsu (fried chicken) slider!
MEGAPLEX AT THE GATEWAY
Ready to Sundance in style? Vibrating and reclining electric loungers await festival goers at the newest host venue. Not sure Redford would have ever imagined this 42 years ago! Luxuriate at the brand new Italian Graffiti, seconds from the theater. An ode to Rome, a bacchanal to Bologna, Italian Graffiti is the best the country has to offer in a lavishly modern setting.
Not in the mood for a meal fit for the Gods? Try Maxwell’s Little Bar, a half block east of The Gateway. It is another new Italian restaurant that lives up to its name–a postage stamp space whipping out moon-sized pizzas and meatballs the diameter of your fist–if your fist is the size of John Goodman.
While at The Gateway, don’t miss the second Sundance Lounge, directly beneath the theater at HallPass. No Sundance credentials are required for the daily acts at 7 pm and 9 pm. Plus, the elevated food hall offers a half dozen eateries and a bar–don’t miss the lobster roll at Colossal Lobster or the bao bun at Graffiti Bao!