ON THE STREET: Bar Block Hits 35!
Thirty-five.
That’s the number of bars and restaurants that now call the Bar Block home–making it the greatest concentration of entertainment spaces in the entire state. We love watching this great renaissance for the neighborhood that just six months ago suffered a devastating fire and put five establishments (temporarily) out of business. But from the ashes, these Phoenixes are reopening and soaring. Pull up a stool, let’s take stock of what is coming to Downtown.
White Horse has reopened as well as Chef Charlie Perry’s Eva–both fully refreshed (again, in just under six months)! And yes, Perry did not forget the fig & pig pizza and those unforgettable Brussel sprouts. Hooray!
BARRELS OVERHEAD, GOOD BOURBON BELOW
Also on the Bar Block, Eight Settlers, the distiller known for their whiskeys, vodka, and gin has opened a handsome, three level spot on charming Exchange Place. Katia Dugala, the owner, said they plan to have live music every Friday in a cozy lounge, downstairs. And we love the consistency: open everyday 11am-midnight.
Bar Block-related. Rich Romney and Chef Travis Herbert of Felt fame (recently winning best restaurant from Salt Lake Magazine) have opened Brownstone 22 in the beloved Martine space. The fellas have shined up the space and created a gorgeous room with a warm glow. A recent visit found award-winning mixologist and highly affable Josh Van Gorden slinging from his sophisticated cocktail menu. (Start with the House Cosmopolitan.)
Peru meets Japan at Killa in the beautifully updated Current space. The stories we’re hearing make us wonder… maybe this is our shot into the Michelin universe?
Shame on us for not reporting that UGC (Urban Gyro & Chicken) opened their second location a couple months ago on Regent Street. The tasty lamb and beef gyro is a great lunch option for just $10.
People have been talking with exclamation points about the just-opened Gossip Kitchen. Speaking of glow-ups, the Laziz space went from fast casual to elegant for a menu that serves contemporary Italian AND refined Japanese tapas. We’re going to have to investigate the menu soon. Visit soon before the word gets out.
After 11 months in limbo Old Cuss Cafe returns! And, even better, returns in a Downtown location! Brent’lee Williams & Chef Chandler Bailey Lower have been laboring on lower Pierpont to make a perfect space for their one of a kind vegetarian/vegan restaurant/coffee shop. Try one of their signature drinks like Black Currant Latte, Root Beer Chai, Cereal Milk latte, and Blueberry Pie Latte. YUM!
MODERN WEST: BACK WHERE IT BELONGS
One of Utah’s finest art collectors Diane Stewart has returned Modern West to its rightful place, Downtown… and we are truly thrilled. The gallery opened with Unbound: Art of the West curated by Shalee Cooper. The exhibition is everything Modern West is known for, unapologetically modern, local, beautiful. Go check out this treasure box of art!