I’ve called Utah home my entire life, and for me, there’s nowhere better suited to my proclivities for spontaneous mountain escapes, an innovative dining scene, and tight-knit community spirit. But I’ll also be the first to confess that living in the Beehive State isn’t always easy. Between ugly redistricting battles, eye-popping housing costs, resource-draining data centers funded by sharky venture capitalists, and, oh yeah, a lake on the brink of collapse—being a Utahn requires grit.
Instead of folding under the pressures of today’s world, Utahns harness a special kind of fortitude that I see displayed every day, from the smallest acts of intention to collective acts of great courage. I see it in the waterwise gardens flourishing throughout my neighborhood, in my favorite restaurants hosting fundraising pop-ups for employees during times of crisis, and in community theaters inspiring new generations of land stewards through arts and education. I see it on the trails as hikers offer the obligatory Utah wave before stopping to pick up plastic on their way out, and I see it in the leaders who inspire me to show up and speak out in the face of adversity.
So if you are searching for a bit of reassurance in a time of geographical trepidation, let this issue be your guide. At its core, our annual Best of the Beehive edition is meant to inspire readers to love where they live.
Whether it’s introducing you to refugees who have turned their struggles into success through culinary training or fashion-forward designers who are putting Utah on the map for streetwear, these stories celebrate the people shaping our communities. You might feel inspired to stay up past your bedtime to revisit a favorite trail beneath a canopy of stars and perhaps a little vindicated after peeking inside the fridges of your favorite local chefs.
Our ode to loving local reaches its crescendo in the eponymous feature, Best of the Beehive, where we’ve tapped the community to nominate the things, people, and places that continue to make Utah a place they are proud to call home. Thousands of nominations flooded the polls, championing the bests of well, everything. Antique shops, Pilates studios, french fries and dive bars — our readers are decidedly opinionated when it comes to their favorites. Consider these winners and finalists as 327 more reasons to love where you live.
Haven’t subscribed yet? You’re missing out. Head over to our subscribe page and get six copies a year of Salt Lake magazine.
