Dinner and a drink for under $30? With Laurel Brasserie & Bar, the Grand America embraces casual dining.
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March weather is notoriously unpredictable, especially in Utah, where a week of sunshine is often followed by days of unrelenting snowfall. But for steadfast gardeners and loyal landscapers, the early spring season is a time to reevaluate your awakening outdoor areas. Of course, it’s not quite time to plant delicate blooms in the ground, but getting a head start on your plein air projects will undoubtedly sow the seeds of green-thumbed success. To help you get started, Ginger Belnap, owner and principal landscape designer of Meadow Brook Design, offers her top five tips for Utah spring landscaping.
1) Be careful with fertilizer
Winter storms hit the Wasatch Front sporadically between March and April, and a surge in moisture can impact your lawn. Too much rain produces runoff that carries fertilizer away that hasn’t had the opportunity to soak into the soil. Belnap suggests keeping an eye on the weather and applying fertilizer two days before a heavy storm to avoid deficiency. The type of fertilizer used is just as important as timing, and using the nutrient-rich version gives your lawn the best chance at revival after a long winter. “In the spring, you want to apply a high-nitrogen fertilizer to give your lawn a quick green color,” says Belnap.
2) Think of the big picture
Even seemingly low maintenance and water-wise landscapes require maintenance. Do your future self a favor by planning out the landscape of your entire yard before you begin spring gardening. “An efficient landscape design takes advantage of the entire yard, fostering a sense of function, flow and beauty,” Belnap explains. Factors to consider when planning your landscape include:
- Defining areas organized by plant type
- Including distinct borders
- Not forgetting pathways
3) Prioritize Privacy
Without added privacy, even a well-designed landscape loses its charm and comfort. While you wait for the season’s last freeze, take the opportunity to research garden features that provide both visual appeal and the feeling of seclusion. Strategically placed fences may separate a neighbor’s property from yours, but other solutions include decorative screens and evergreens. Even a row of potted topiaries can designate a private sitting area apart from the busier yard areas when placed in an appropriate position.
4) Focus your family values
If you plan on undertaking a total landscape overhaul this spring, Belnap advises investing in features you know your family will use and enjoy. “If your family enjoys playing games, prioritize a level lawn space to play soccer or football,” she says. “Or maybe installing a pickleball court is a better fit for your family and lifestyle—be creative!”
5) Remember bigger isn’t always better
It might be tempting to go ahead and invest in mature shrubs and plants that will immediately fill in your sparse landscape. But planting juvenile greenery gives your yard an opportunity to grow and change with the seasons while also being easier on your budget. Belnap thinks of this as a long-term investment, like “choosing small trees over shrubs as they take longer to grow and require less long-term maintenance.”
While you’re here, subscribe to Salt Lake magazine and get more home and garden tips from our sister publication Utah Style & Design.
Like many of nature’s creatures, your houseplants are enjoying an extended slumber during the winter season. And while you might start to notice foliage becoming sparse or dry, it’s actually plants’ way of saying: “Wake us up after Groundhog Day.” There are, however, some winter tasks for green-thumbed caretakers. Melinda Meservy, horticulturist and Thyme and Place shop owner, uses the word PAMPER to guide her wintertime houseplant care.
PRUNE
“You want to prune or remove anything that has been dying to allow for new growth,” Meservy says. By cutting damaged leaves and stems, your plant will efficiently conserve energy throughout the winter.
AERATE
When soil becomes too packed, it begins to repel water and plants are unable to pull nutrients out of the organic matter. Meservy suggests using a chopstick to gently lift and separate soil once a month.
MIST (OR NOT)
“Not all plants like to be misted,” Meservy explains. The key is to research where your houseplant evolved and try to recreate that environment. Ferns, monsteras and pothos appreciate an extra layer of moisture while succulents prefer to be left alone during the colder winter months.
PROVIDE LESS WATER
During their winter dormancy, plants don’t need nearly as much water. Scale back your watering schedule in accordance with each plant’s moisture needs. You should also refrain from fertilizing indoor foliage. “Fertilizing a plant during the winter is like trying to force somebody to eat when they’re asleep,” says Meservy.
ETCETERA
Etcetera involves keeping an eye out for common pests like spider mites and mealybugs that appear during the winter. “If you have pests, it usually means there has been some overwatering or there is no drainage,” she says.
REPOT
You don’t have to repot your plants each year, and some species prefer to stay root-bound. But as your plants begin to wake up from hibernation, offer them new soil in a spacious pot to boost spring growth.
Read more on 2022 houseplant trends and subscribe to get Salt Lake directly to your mailbox.
If you’ve been chasing the winter blues with spiked hot cocoa and sickly-sweet concoctions, it’s time to switch it up. Swap out the peppermint schnapps with a refreshing cocktail to keep you warm through February. Finding inspiration in seasonal favorites, Water Witch bartender Kenzi Anderson pairs the rich flavors of cognac with a homemade cinnamon pear shrub. The vinegar-based syrup adds a touch of acidity to the cocktail while complimenting the seasonal profile. To balance the sweetness, Anderson adds Cocchi Americano, a Moscato-based aperitif with a bitter citrus profile. The combination is complex, full-bodied and equally sippable when topped with a splash of soda water.
The Tuning Fork
Cocktail by Kenzi Anderson
What’s Inside:
1½ ounce Martell V.S. Cognac
½ ounce Lemon Juice
½ ounce Cocchi Americano
½ ounce Pear Cinnamon Shrub
Shake It Up
Combine all ingredients in your favorite tin and shake for about ten seconds. Add the mixture to a Collins glass and top with soda water. Garnish with dehydrated lemon wedge and enjoy.
Make Your Own Shrub
Peel and dice 880 grams of Bartlett pears. Combine pears with 675 grams of white cane sugar and leave at room temperature overnight, then refrigerate for half a day. Combine 3 cups white distilled vinegar with 50 grams of whole cinnamon sticks in a pan and simmer for five to ten minutes. Remove from heat and let cool at room temperature for 36 hours. Strain both mixtures and combine 12 ounces of cinnamon vinegar with 21 ounces pear mixture for a delectable shrub.
We’ve all been there—rushing to the grocery store to pick up a last-minute bouquet for a loved one on Feb. 14. But if you want to gift your Valentine something that truly reflects your affection, an underwhelming bundle of wilted blooms just doesn’t cut it. Luckily, the Beehive State is brimming with gifted florists that are happy to offer their flower-friendly services to every aspiring Casanova. Here are 14 places to get Utah flowers this Valentine’s Day.
Lilly and Iris
Midvale florist Lilly and Iris incorporates the latest floral trends and best quality blooms in all their arrangements. This Valentine’s Day, they are offering their signature florist’s choice arrangements as well as all rose bouquets. Arrangements start at $60, order by Feb. 13 for next day delivery.
@lilly.and.iris on Instagram
Native Flower Company
Native Flower Company is a full-service florist based in Salt Lake City offering uniquely-designed, custom flower arrangements delivered to your door. The theme for their Valentine’s Day line this year is UNCHAINED, inspired by the beloved UK ballad “Unchained Melody.” They are also offering custom arrangements and add-ons like chocolates and small gifts. Place your order by 12 p.m. Feb. 12 and pick up by 5 p.m. Feb. 13.
1448 E. 2700 South, SLC, 801-364-4606
Artisan Bloom
Artisan Bloom is a luxury florist service that prides themselves on wowing even the most discerning clients. This year, they are offering three price points for their Valentine’s Day collection. Starting at $125, their designer arrangements are expected to sell out before the anticipated deadline of Feb. 14 at 10 a.m.
7573 S. Main Street, Midvale, 801-913-7444
The Fleur Market
Logan-based florist The Fleur Market is offering a variety of bouquets and arrangements this Valentine’s Day. Their designer’s choice starts at $42 and is available for local same-day delivery. They also sell charcuterie baskets, chocolate boxes and live houseplants for the green-thumbed Valentine.
320 N. 100 East, Logan, 435-799-3350
Twigs
Twigs is a Salt Lake City florist specializing in romantic rose-filled bouquets and traditional arrangements. Their same-day delivery options ensure your gift shows up just in time for Valentine’s day.
1616 S. 1100 East, SLC, 801-596-2322
The Petal Coop
Formerly operating as a mobile flower service, The Petal Coop is moving into their first brick-and-mortar location in the Maven District just in time for Valentine’s day weekend. Starting at $45, their lush arrangements are designed to delight in pink ceramic vases and a spring palette. Order by Feb. 7 and visit their site for available pick-up times.
577 N. 200 West, SLC, 801-971-1127
Dancing Daisies Floral
Dancing Daisies Floral is a boutique studio based in Farmington. This year, they are offering a variety of rose bouquets and custom arrangements starting at $55. Their Valentine’s Day orders are available for pickup and local delivery.
1185 N. Jackson Ave., Farmington, 801-915-9048
Every Blooming Thing
Salt Lake florist Every Blooming Thing is offering their full range of custom-made arrangements as well as special Valentine’s Day options. Order by 1 p.m. for same-day delivery on Feb. 14.
1344 S. 2100 East, SLC, 801-521-4773
Cactus and Tropicals
With locations in Draper and Salt Lake, Cactus and Tropicals specializes in unique arrangements using local blooms, succulents and tropical flowers. Their designer’s choice starts at $50, other arrangements begin at $65. Same day delivery is available if ordered by 12 p.m. Closed Sundays.
2735 S. 2000 East, SLC | 12252 Draper Gate Dr., Draper
801-485-2542 | 801-672-0935
Flower Creations UT
Latina-owned Southern Utah florist Flower Creations is offering several swoon-worthy Valentine’s Day packages this year. Options to add chocolates, balloons, stuffed bears and other items. DM for pricing and delivery details.
@flowercreationsut on Instagram
Orchid Dynasty
Specializing in exotic plants and tropical bouquets, Orchid Dynasty is offering a curated Valentine’s collection this year. Wrapped arrangements start at $75.
365 W. 900 South, SLC, 801-583-4754
Sticks & Stems
Sticks & Stems is a Utah County-based florist offering custom arrangements starting at $65. Each design follows a pastel color palette with seasonal white, lavender, blush, yellow and green blooms. Order by Feb. 7 for local delivery on Feb. 12, or pickup on Valentine’s Day.
@sticks.stems on Instagram
Little Lady Floral
This year, Little Lady Floral is offering two packages for Salt Lake sweethearts. Starting at $75, each arrangement includes dusty rose blooms in a unique design. A locally-baked macaron box can be added for $15. Order by Feb. 5 to get $15 off your order.
@littleladyfloral on Instagram
Jimmy’s Flowers
Jimmy’s Flowers is a family-owned company with locations in Davis and Weber counties. Their bright and fresh floral arrangements make an ideal gift for any discerning valentine. Arrangements range from $45-$180 with the option to add on balloons, chocolates, cards and candles. Ordering is available Feb. 7-14.
2735 Washington Blvd., Ogden | 2840 N. Hillfield Rd., Layton | 470 S Main St., Bountiful
801-621-2360 | 801-773-8400 | 801-298-3228
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Filling the home with lush greenery has been proven to boost moods, lower stress and improve focus. So it’s no wonder many of us looked to our houseplants to provide sanctuary over the past few years. The growing craze surrounding indoor houseplants is expected to continue as we enter 2022, and local experts are chiming in with their own green predictions. Horticulturist and Thyme and Place owner Melinda Meservy has welcomed shoppers into her botanical boutique since 2018 and has developed a keen sense in houseplant trends. Here, she shares her forecast for what 2022 has in store for green-thumbed enthusiasts.
Aroids Are The New “It” Plant
Move over succulents, aroid plants are here to stay. Aroid plants include many of your favorite greenery like pothos, monsteras and philodendrons. These plants are notorious for their easy and forgiving nature, perfect for novice gardeners looking for low maintenance greenery. But don’t mistake their soft temper for dullness—aroids are known for their vibrant color and quick growth rate. “I’m seeing people gravitate toward aroids because they want to see their plant actually progress and grow,” says Meservy.
Houseplant Parents Will Improve Their Skills, But Others Will Lose Their Green Thumb
In 2021, many rushed to their nearest plant shop to bring a piece of the outdoors inside. Now, Meservy expects some of those early enthusiasts to lose interest. “As with any trend, I think there might be a bit of a pendulum swing back,” she says.” I think I’m going to see some people get discouraged and give up.” Of course, other houseplant parents will have sparked an attraction that will only keep growing. “The people that have really connected with their plants and found a benefit will keep loving them, and start learning how to best care for them,” says Meservy.
Supply Chain Disruptions Will Endure
The stop-and-go of the global supply chain has touched all corners of industry, including the houseplant community. Meservy has experienced difficulty in stocking her shop with new species and products since the pandemic began, and is settling in for another year of solution solving. The easiest way to avoid supply chain obstacles? Shop small. Instead of sourcing plants at big-box stores like The Home Depot or Lowe’s, support local nurseries and shops where you’ll find plenty of items made right here in the beehive state.
Pots and Containers Will Find the Spotlight
In 2022, people will find meaning in pots and containers as much as in the plants themselves. “I think we are going to see plant lovers spending time and effort to find the right containers for their plants that they really love,” says Meservy. Her favorite trending pieces? Midcentury modern pieces with cylindrical features.
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Plenty of us have romantic, Norman Rockwell-esque visions of cooking the perfect Thanksgiving feast for a big family gathering. But for many home cooks, the reality is much different—the turkey is dry, the rolls are burnt and someone forgot to bring the Jell-O salad your ancestors have been making since 1847. If you’re looking to leave it to the pros and take the guesswork out of the holiday this year, many of Utah’s best chefs are serving both Turkey Day classics and nontraditional twists for both dine-in and takeout. Here are 25 Utah restaurants serving Thanksgiving dinner this Nov. 25.
(This post was originally published in 2021, for a list of restaurants serving dinner and take-home feasts this year, click here.)
Salt Lake City and The Wasatch Front
Arlo
Arlo’s carry-out Thanksgiving dinners feed four to six people for $200. The menu includes sides like chicory salad, Brussels sprouts, turkey gravy and apple pie. Turkey not included. Food comes cold with reheating instructions. Read the full menu and place your order here.
274 Center St., SLC
385-266-8845
Bambara
Bambara will be open from 1 p.m.-6 p.m. on Thanksgiving day serving their regular menu along with Turkey Day favorites. Visit their site to make reservations.
202 S. Main St. (Inside Hotel Monaco), SLC
801-363-5454
SLC Eatery
Continuing their take-home Thanksgiving dinner tradition, SLC Eatery is serving up delicious options for your own home enjoyment. Select a traditional package serving up to four people for $150. They also offer individual meals like the prime rib dinner, the salmon dinner, and the turkey dinner. Add on appetizers like smoked french onion dip with nori potato chips to be the most popular person at the family table. View the entire menu here.
1017 S. Main St., SLC
801-355-7952
Franck’s
Franck’s is offering their annual Thanksgiving dinner with an impressive pre-set four course menu starting at $60 per person. Menu highlights include four-day brined young turkey steak, brown butter pomme puree and pecan apple butter pie. Read the full menu and make reservations here.
6263 S. Holladay Blvd., SLC
801-274-6264
Hub & Spoke
Hub & Spoke is serving a Thanksgiving brunch buffet from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on the 25th. Their menu includes Hub and Spoke favorites as well as traditional Turkey Day items. Prices start at $34.99 for adults and $17.49 for kids. Menu highlights include chicken and waffle, turkey hash, butternut squash bisque and classic Thanksgiving sides like homemade stuffing. Click here for the full menu.
1291 S. 1100 East, SLC
801-487-0698
Fleming’s Steakhouse
Fleming’s is serving Thanksgiving dinner all day with a three course menu. Highlights include prime bone-in ribeye, lobster bisque and cinnamon-orange infused cranberry sauce. Prices start at $49.99; click here for the full menu.
20 400 West, SLC
801-355-3704
Harmons
Harmons has done the work for you to make a delicious Thanksgiving meal at your home. Their ready-to-roast dinner serves six to eight people and costs $175. Items include 12 pound seasoned turkey, 2 quartz of fresh herb stuffing, ½ pint of fresh-made cranberry sauce, 1 quart of fresh-roasted caramelized yams, and a 9-inch Harmons pie of your choice. Visit their site for more information.
Multiple Locations
Vessel Kitchen
This year, Vessel is once again offering delicious, fully prepared Thanksgiving meals. Select either a regular or large bundle which includes mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, baked mac and cheese and more. Individual sides are also available. Turkey is not included. For more information on ordering, click here.
905 E. 900 South, SLC
801-810-1950
Cuisine Unlimited
Cuisine Unlimited is offering two packages to fit your feasting needs. The “just the sides package” costs $190 and includes 10-12 servings. Menu items include herbed mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables and chutney. Their all inclusive package is priced at $410 and includes a charcuterie board, turkey, various sides and dessert. All items are also available a la carte. View the full menu here.
4641 S. Cherry St., SLC
801-268-2332
Provisions
Provisions is serving a three course meals on Nov. 28. The menu includes Thanksgiving classics along with deliciously prepared seafood and vegetables. Prices start at $60 for adults. Call for more details.
3364 S. 2300 East, SLC
801-410-4046
Pago
Pago is offering two Thanksgiving meal kits this year. The omnivore package feeds up to four and includes honey and sage roasted turkey breast, roasted baby carrots, sourdough stuffing and apple crisp. The vegetarian package serves two and includes stuffed acorn squash, whipped potatoes with mushroom gravy and salad. Visit their site for more information on ordering and pick-up.
341 S. Main St., SLC
801-441-2955
Hearth on 25th
Hearth is offering their turkey feast to-go again this year with menu items including slow cooked oven roasted turkey, whipped Yukon potatoes, cranberry chutney and roasted sweet potatoes. Each feast serves up to six with options to purchase multiple packages.You can also add on your choice of dessert.
Make reservations and view the whole menu here.
195 25th St., Ogden
801-399-0088
La Caille
La Caille is serving a gourmet Thanksgiving dinner starting at $130 for adults. The three course meal includes roasted butternut squash soup, rose apple salad and your choice of entree. Side dishes include bacon brussel sprouts, root vegetable sausage stuffing, herb gravy and rosemary aus jus. Call for reservations and view their whole menu here.
9565 Wasatch Blvd., Sandy
801-942-1751
Archibald’s
Pre-order a fully-cooked traditional Thanksgiving feast from Archibald’s by Nov.20 for menu items like slow-roasted turkey, sweet potato casserole, apple sage stuffing and Archibald’s famous pumpkin pie cake. The dinner serves up to eight and costs $180. For pick-up times and the full menu, click here.
1100 W. 7800 South, West Jordan
801-938-1999
Brio Italian Grille
Brio’s Thanksgiving feast is available for pick-up and delivery. Priced at $78.99, the small package serves three. For bigger gatherings, the large option feeds six and costs $148. Menu items include classic turkey, broccolini, stuffing and pumpkin spiced bread pudding. To-go feast can either be prepared cold and ready to heat or hot and ready for enjoyment. Download the menu PDF and place your order here.
80 Regent St., SLC
801-359-4401
Tuscany
Tuscany is serving a three course meal from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. on Thanksgiving day. Menu highlights include glazed Duroc ham, garlic whipped potato and eggplant pomodoro. Prices start at $68 for adults. Call to make reservations.
2832 E. 6200 South, SLC
801-277-9919
The Aerie at Snowbird
Aerie’s Thanksgiving day buffet is available from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. and offers delectable items like parmesan and garlic crusted halibut, chili-braised pork and, of course, tender turkey dinners. Click here to view the full menu and make reservations.
9320 Cliff Lodge Dr., Snowbird
801-933-2222
Log Haven
Log Haven is serving a four course plated luncheon from 1 p.m.-5 p.m. on Thanksgiving day starting at $75 for adults. Menu items include herb brined turkey served with buttermilk mashed potatoes and fresh cranberry sauce. Read the full menu here.
6451 Mill Creek Canyon, SLC
801-272-8255
Park City
Powder Restaurant at Waldorf Astoria
Serving an elevated twist on Thanksgiving Day favorites, Powder is offering a buffet from 11:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Tickets start at $125 for adults, Buffet items include a full-service carving station, roasted vegetables, maple glazed Brussels sprouts and pumpkin cheesecake. Call for dine-in options and view the whole menu here.
2100 Frostwood Dr., Park City
435-647-5500
Hearth and Hill
Hearth and Hill is offering take-home Turkey dinners that serve eight for $295. Packages include a 12 pound organic turkey, mashed potatoes, glazed yams and Brussels sprouts with bacon & cranberry, with options to add truffle mac & cheese, refuel salad and cheddar biscuits. Curbside pick-up available 11a.m.-3 p.m. Thanksgiving Day. Call to reserve order at 435-200-8840 and view the entire menu here.
1153 Center Dr., Park City
435-200-8840
Riverhorse on Main
Offering several carry-out items, Riverhorse’s menu items include sage stuffing, candied yams, wild game meatballs and butternut squash soup. Items are available à la carte and serve up to four guests. Some menu items come with reheating instructions for pick up. Learn more here.
540 Main St., Park City
435-649-3536
Butcher’s Chop House & Bar
Butcher’s is serving Thanksgiving Dinner from 2 p.m -10 p.m. starting at $55 for adults. Their menu includes turkey, garlic green beans and candied yams as well as regular menu items. You can also book an exclusive experience in their private Aspenglobes. Tickets start at $125 and include a two course menu. For more information and to book a reservation, click here.
751 Lower Main St., Park City
435-647-0040
Luna’s Kitchen
Luna’s is offering a variety of Thanksgiving platters and sides for pickup only on Wednesday, Nov.24 from 2 p.m.-7 p.m. All items come with reheating instructions. Menu highlights include old-fashioned gravy, chef curated cheese and charcuterie platter, sage and apple stuffing, and boursin roasted garlic mashed potatoes. Click here for the full menu and ordering details.
1400 Snow Creek Dr., Park City
435-731-8383
Grub Steakhouse
Grub Steakhouse is serving a Thanksgiving meal starting at $40.75 for adults. Menu highlights include roasted turkey, creamy mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie. Take-out also available. Visit their site for more details.
2093 Sidewinder Dr., Park City
435-649-8060
This post was originally published in 2021, for a list of restaurants serving dinner and take-home feasts this year, click here.
Read more about food and drink in Utah.
If you’re looking for something to switch up your winter sipping routine, look no further than Salt Lake’s own Tsuki Sake. The first of its kind in Utah, Tsuki is infusing our spirit scene with cultural authenticity and delicious products to boot.
You might not expect sake and Utah to pair so well together, but Tsuki co-owner Jillian Watanabe saw potential for a match made in sake heaven. Her heritage as a half-Japanese Salt Lake local is what originally pushed her toward sake and Japanese cuisine, and as she says “one sip can change your life.” After learning about the unique traits of the spirit, like its terroir-like tendencies and connection to seasons, Watanabe found herself getting more excited to talk about sake. She gained the title of International Kikisake-shi after completing rigorous training from the Sake School of America.
The course taught her everything from the history of brewing methods to perfecting the pairing process—basically, Watanabe knows a shit-ton about sake.
Watanabe’s original goal was to travel to Japan and expand her knowledge of traditional sake brewing methods. But, of course, the world had other travel-inhibiting plans. While bound in the states, she connected with Executive Chef Kirk Terashima and Utah brewery alumni Ty Eldrige. The three shared a common interest in bringing a sake company to Salt Lake, and within a year Tsuki was created.
Tsuki’s namesake is owed to Watanabe’s wife, who suggested the name after Watanabe’s affinity for the moon. “It’s also a symbol of womanhood, femininity and power,” she says. When she pitched it to her business partners, they said the name was a fitting way to honor Watanabe as a female sake brewer—of which there are very few in the entire world.
The line currently carries two sakes: The Supermoon and White Peach Nigori. The Supermoon—renamed from the previous “Junmai Daigingo” to curb the occurrence of shoppers yelling “what’s this Jumanji business?!” at the liquor stores (really, Utah?)—is a premium-grade filtered sake with fruity notes and a bright finish. “Long story short, the rice polish ratio is what makes Supermoon a Daiginjo, and the only ingredients are water, rice, yeast and Koji which is what Junmai means,” Watanabe explains. Described as a “fruit salad on the nose,” she suggests pairing the sake with seafood like oysters, mussels and sushi.
When you’re in the mood for something sweeter, reach for the White Peach Nigori. Made with pure peach puree, it’s a thicker sake with a coral glow. “I wanted to kind of represent Utah with something that is local to the state, sort of a fusion between Japanese and Utah flavors,” Watanabe says. Don’t get it confused, White Peach is by no means the kind of flavored sake you’d order at an all-you-can-eat sushi restaurant. The peach notes are prominent enough to give the sake some weight, but are subtle so they don’t overwhelm the palette. “It’s such a smooth sipper, and it goes awesome in a cocktail,” she says. “Anything with sparkling wine and honey simple syrup, or spicy flavors like Thai basil and habanero.”
Together, the sake duo have taken the city by storm and Tsuki only plans to get bigger. Watanabe has been on the lookout for a brick and mortar brewery to expand the business. She also wants to offer canned sakes. “We want something to compliment the Salt Lake lifestyle of going skiing or hiking, some pocket sake when you are out and about.” Imagine cracking open a can of cold sake while your friends shotgun beers in the resort parking lot—the ultimate power move.
As Salt Lake’s first-ever sake company, Tsuki is a delightful addition for sake enthusiasts and casual sippers alike. Look for their lunar label the next time you’re in the liquor store, just don’t ask the clerk where the Jumanji is.
Find Tsuki on Instagram @tsukisakeslc. Vote for your favorite local bartender in our 2021 Cocktail Contest.
Fall drinks don’t always have to be toddies and cider. Bartender Mckenzie Foster of Post Office Place shows us that gin pairs well with sweater weather. Using the basic Negroni as reference, Foster reimagines the classic cocktail with a peach aperitif and blanco vermouth. The two play well with Waterpocket’s robust gin without venturing into sweet territory. Foster adds a touch of Chinese Secret Bitters to evoke the flavor of fall, and the spicy undertones are well placed. The mixture is light yet surprisingly hardy and warm. It’s the perfect sipper during the transitional season.
Rinquinquin Negroni
Cocktail by Mckenzie Foster
What’s Inside
1.5 oz Waterpocket Gin
.75 oz La Pivón Blanco Vermouth
.75 oz Rinquinquin Peach Apertif
Chinese Secret Bitters
Stir and Sip
Place a large block of ice in a rocks glass and sprinkle it with bitters to your taste. Then, add the ingredients starting with the Vermouth and Rinquinquin. Once the gin joins the party, stir until all ingredients are blended. Garnish with a fresh lemon twist and enjoy.
Bartender’s Choice
Missing a few ingredients in your home bar? Swap out the Waterpocket Gin for something similarly delicate. Just be sure to avoid anything overly floral or peppered.
Read more on bars and libations in Utah.
There is something to be said about a bar that keeps things simple and classic, especially in a city where try-hard trendy spots and zoomer-friendly bars pop up daily. The latest joining this echelon of approachable watering holes is The Pines. Owned by the Dick N’ Dixie’s group and residing in the former Tinwell space, The Pines is a welcome new but familiar face.
Before they even opened their doors, The Pines was faced with challenges that are now synonymous with the year 2020. “We signed the papers in March of last year, and about two weeks later the whole city closed down,” says owner Will Bourne. For six months Bourne and co-owner Kirsten Fowler sat on the empty space and waited for their moment. Despite their delayed opening, Bourne says purchasing the building was a worthy investment. In addition to inheriting a beautiful bar and a reputable weekend hotspot, The Pines is situated in an up-and-coming area of Salt Lake. “In the next few years, this neighborhood is going to be booming,” Bourne says.
Fast forward to 2021 and that very same neighborhood is already thriving. Next to Proper Brewing Company and adjacent to spots like Water Witch and Duffy’s Tavern, The Pines is a worthy addition. Walking into the bar is like seeing an old friend in a new place. The sleek industrial decor is familiar yet fresh, and the bar is stocked with a wide range of alluring elixirs. Both elevated and approachable, Bourne says The Pines is everyone’s bar. “It’s a place you can come and hang out, watch a game if you want or explore cocktails with our talented bartenders.”
The Pines is definitely a place you can knock a few back and just generally hang out, but they’re also getting into events. Visit the bar on a Wednesday for free weekly trivia, or step out on Fridays for their New Wave Funk night with DJ Retrograde and Nix Beat. Bourne and Fowler are also experimenting with craft cocktail evenings, so you can make art or trinkets while you drink. The last boozy craft night was held in partnership with local service Party Chez Vous, which provided all the tools to make lush succulent terrariums while The Pines offered libations—because what’s more fun than playing in some dirt while tipsy?
The Pines is a perfect combination of Dick N’ Dixie’s easygoing attitude and the cool ambiance of the former Tinwell. While the bar isn’t technically the new kid on the block, they are keeping the spirit of stiff drinks and long nights alive on south Main Street.
837 S. Main St., SLC, 801-906-8418
Read more about libations and nightlife in SLC.
