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Avrey Evans

Avrey Evans is the Managing Editor of Salt Lake Magazine. She has been writing for city publications for seven years and enjoys covering the faces and places of our salty city, especially when a boozy libation is concerned.

Mar 27
Love0

Mountain Wine Storage is Utah’s First Professional Wine Storage Facility

By After Dark

Wine collecting is serious business. I’m not talking about those few bottles of Moet saved for a special celebration, or a half-corked carafe of Pinot sitting in your kitchen’s wine fridge. Lifelong collectors spend expeditious amounts of time, money and dedication tracking down limited-edition bottles and exotic pours. Collections worth hundreds of thousands of dollars aren’t left lying around to risk damage, theft, or worse—a mischievous teenager looking to nab a seemingly forgotten dusty bottle. These impressive collections should be stored in temperature-controlled facilities run by experts who understand their value, now Utah has one of its own. 

Opened in May of 2024, Mountain Wine Storage is a 9,000 square-foot facility in Heber equipped with high-tech environmental controls and robust security. Finally, a place where your prized collection can be stored safe from the detriments of climate and wandering hands. 

When Bill DeLeon moved to Utah in 2023, one of his greatest concerns was where to store his 3,000 bottle-strong wine collection. His search turned fruitless when he found nothing but residential storage lockers, but Bill did discover a business opportunity. Within the year he staked a commercial space in Heber and began the arduous hoop jumps that any booze-related business owner in Utah knows all too well.

Wine Storage Utah

 The Heber facility maintains optimal wine-storage temperature and humidity.
Wine Storage Utah

Bill DeLeon’s own 3,000 bottle-strong collection is stored under tight security inside the facility.   

The massive facility looks quite industrial on the surface, with forklifts onsite to move crates of wine, and individual locker spaces locked behind gates. But it’s the equipment beneath the warehouse exterior that makes Mountain Wine Storage truly shine, “we thought of everything that a collector and an investor would want,” DeLeon says. The 9,000 square-foot facility is armed with three industrial air conditioners, four industrial humidifiers, two industrial dehumidifiers, 25 security cameras, glass break detectors and an on-site wine concierge. Advanced climate control maintains the facility at 55% to 65% humidity, and 55 degrees Fahrenheit, with any severe variations triggering an alarm to security.

The facility is so dialed into the best wine-keeping conditions that DeLeon keeps his own collection safely tucked away in a locker on site, and he’s met plenty of like-minded wine fanatics whose ears perk up at the thought of a first-rate storage facility for their vino. “I built the facility based on the concept that there are a lot of people in Park City that like wine,” DeLeon says. “What I found is that there are also going to be a lot more people moving to Utah who like wine, and they’re going to need us.” 

Getting those collections into Mountain Wine Storage isn’t DeLeon’s only priority, he’s also interested in connecting with the wider wine community in the Wasatch Back. “We want to organize wine dinners for our clients, as well as work with some of the wineries I know to come out and share their knowledge and products.” Stay up to date with the latest events and opportunities at mountainwinestorage.com.  

If You Go

Mountain Wine Storage
88 W. Airport Road, Heber
mountainwinestorage.com

Feb 25
Love0

Thank You For Joining Us At Our 2025 Dining Awards Ceremony

By Dining Awards, Eat & Drink

Thank You for Celebrating with Us! 

On February 24th, we celebrated Utah’s robust and growing dining community at our 2025 Dining Awards Ceremony. We’d like to take a moment to shout out all the attendees in raising a glass to our winners and enjoying a night of fun! 

Photography by Natalie Simpson, Beehive Photo Video

Photography by Adam Finkle

A special thank you to all our sponsors, without them events like these would not be possible. 

And a big congratulations to all our 2025 Dining Awards winners! 

Our 15 Best Restaurants of the Year are: 

Our Four Restaurants to Watch Are: 

  • Koyote
  • Felt Bar & Eatery
  • Scelto
  • Basalt at Black Desert
    Bambara
  • Rouser at Asher Adams

The #RandomPink Award: Harbor Seafood & Steak

The Golden Spoon For Hospitality: Ali Sabbeh and the Team at Mazza

The Blue Plate Award for Community Service: Scion Cider Bar

The Green Thumb Awards for an Outstanding Grower: Frog Bench Farms

The Spirit Award: Alpine Distilling

Hungry for more? Find all our current and previous Salt Lake magazine Dining Awards winners here! And while you’re here, why not subscribe and get six annual issues of Salt Lake magazine’s curated guide to the best of life in Utah.

Feb 14
Love0

Two Action Sport Events Coming to SLC This Summer 

By Community

First, we got our own NHL hockey team. Then, the Olympics named us their 2034 host, how could sports fans be any happier? Utahns must have done something to earn the favor of the athletic gods because this summer Salt Lake will host two blowout events—The Red Bull Soapbox races and the X Games. 

Red Bull Soapbox Race—Saturday, June 14

Engineers, showmen and adrenaline junkies rejoice, the Red Bull Soapbox race is making a stop in Salt Lake during their 2025 summer tour. The event, which first took place in Belgium 25 years ago, challenges amateur pilots to navigate steep obstacle-laden courses in hand-made soapbox cars. 

Part extravagance and part skill, contestant craft one-of-a-kind motorless vehicles with both steering and braking capability. Teams must find a careful balance between flair and function, as they will be judged on their performance at the start of the race as much as track speed and agility.  The track is lined with jumps, hay bales and crash pads—the latter serving as the finish line for those contestants lucky enough to make it to the end. Most of the cars meet their end in fantastical crashes or engineering failures, both are met with lively cheers and fanfare.

On Saturday June 14th, locals will have their shot at infamy as they compete in the high-energy race. The course will take over Main Street starting at the State Capitol, where up to 40 teams of five will test their creativity, endurance and flamboyance. Thousands are expected to be in attendance at the race, one of only three taking place in the U.S. tour this year. “Utah is thrilled to welcome Red Bull Soapbox Race to downtown Salt Lake City. We can’t wait to see how Utahns showcase their creativity and skill in their soapbox designs – it’s a great family-friendly participatory event for the state,” said Utah Sports Commission president and CEO Jeff Robbins in a press conference Wednesday, February 12. 

Applications to compete will be open through March 30, visit redbull.com/soapboxraceutah to apply! 

Find inspiration from previous years’ contestants, below!
Photos courtesy of Red Bull Content Pool

X Games—June 27-June 29

On Thursday, February 13, X Games officials named Salt Lake as one of three hosts for the 2025 games, along with Osaka and Sacramento. The three-day sports festival will take place at the Utah State Fairpark and Event Center where fans can enjoy Moto X, BMX and skateboarding competitions.  “Salt Lake City has a deep-rooted passion for action sports, and we’re thrilled to bring the X Games experience here for the first time,” said X Games CEO Jeremy Bloom, at Thursday’s press conference. “With its incredible outdoor culture, energetic fan base, and strong support from the Utah State Fairpark and Visit Salt Lake, this city is the perfect stage for our athletes to push their limits and put on an unforgettable show.” 

X Games Salt Lake City will host over 100 athletes as they compete for more than $1 million in prize money and legacies as X Games champions. Along with action-packed performances, attendees can also expect brand activations and partnered integrations for an unforgettable weekend. “Our capital city is stoked to host the X Games for the first time ever this summer as they enter their 30th anniversary of world-class sporting events,” said Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall. “Salt Lakers are fans, athletes, and some of them even Olympians—making this a natural fit. We look forward to welcoming competitors and fans to a place that lives and breathes the spirit of competition and community.” 

More information on ticket sales and event schedule is forthcoming, visit xgames.com for the latest updates. 

Jan 21
Love0
Sundance-2015

Things to do During the 2025 Sundance Film Festival

By Uncategorized

The 2025 Sundance Film Festival begins this Thursday (Jan. 23) and my email is enduring a daily barrage of PR releases announcing private screenings, afterparties, panels, chef tastings, opening night celebrations, pop-up lounges (pause for inhale), fireside chats, live performances, and celebrity appearances. All that is to say—there’s a hell of a lot to do up at Park City these next two weeks. So if you’re looking for an activity once you’ve finished up your film screenings, I thought I’d put my besieged inbox to good use. Here you’ll find a list of ways to go beyond the screen at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. 

Official Beyond Film Lineup

Sundance’s Beyond Film programming allows festival goers and cinephiles to interact with their favorite filmmakers. This year’s programming includes four distinct categories: Power of Story (the only ticketed Beyond Film event), Cinema Cafe presented by Audible, Film Church and The Big Conversations. Various participants and special guests expected this year include Olivia Coleman (Jimpa), Steven Yeun (Bubble & Squeak), Eva Victor (Sorry, Baby), Cristina Costantini (SALLY) and more.

“We are thrilled to announce the Beyond Film lineup for the 2025 Sundance Film Festival,” said Kim Yutani, Director of Programming. “The conversations at these events further amplify the ways in which our audiences can engage with the themes and ideas within this year’s Festival Program. We look forward to featuring the inspiring voices of filmmakers, artists, and politicians to connect even more with audiences.” These events take place at the Film Maker Lodge, are free to attend, and are seated on a first-come first-serve basis.

New to the 2025 Sundance Festival, hosts Elijah Wood (Rabbit Trap), and Daniel Noah (Rabbit Trap) will record a live episode of their podcast Visitations featuring special guests.

Find the full Beyond Film schedule here.

Panels and Official Partnered Events

Throughout the next two weeks, Sundance goers can attend panels and events presented by festival partners like Adobe, ACLU, Acura, The Redford Center and more. Highlights include an empowering discussion on storytelling as a tool for social change presented by ACLU—ACLU & Storytelling: Driving Change in Uncertain Times. At the ACURA House of Energy, a mainstay of the festival, a combination of free and invite-only events bring together industry leaders, up-and-coming artists and consumer audiences. Their opening panel on Friday features a diverse panel of producers sharing their views on everything form sustainability to utilizing AI. Other panel highlights from the ACURA house include “Spotlight on Trans Stories and Storytellers,” Women of the World: How Female Filmmakers are Shifting Global Cinema,” and “Better Together: Mapping Gender Allyship in 2025 and Beyond.” All ACURA events take place at their House of Energy, fine more info here.

Find more partnered events from mini workout classes to tips for first-time filmmakers, here!

Parties, Pop-Ups and Lounges

Half the fun of attending Sundance in-person is rubbing shoulders with fellow film buffs and celebs at parties. Unsurprisingly, many of the festivals most sought-after celebration are invite-only, but there are a few experiences that are open to attend, or require a request to RSVP. The Audible Listening Lodge invites all attendees to relax on their roof-top lounge with a free beverage and light bites. Feel free to wander around and listen to some of their most lauded projects inside listening gondolas. (Kimball Terrace, 675 Main Street). Chase invites Sapphire cardmembers to attend their various panels and music performances at their Sapphire Lounge located at 660 Main Street. Program highlights include Friday’s panel for By Design with participants Juliette Lewis, Robin Tunney, Samantha Mathis and more. On Saturday, Jan. 25, the lounge will host a panel with Train Dream‘s cast and director, and the following Sunday will invite Kiss of the Spider Woman‘s Jennifer Lopez and Bill Condon for a discussion.

Of course, Park City has plenty of live music offerings and post-midnight screening DJ sets to go around. Insomniac’s High Altitude Event Series is taking over the Marquis throughout the festival—featuring EDM moguls like RL Grime, Seven Lions, Illenium and Loud Luxury. Find tickets and schedule here. On a more exclusive level, Tao Group has reprised their Park City popup this year. The invite-only club is hosting two events on Jan. 24 and the 25th with musical guests TYGA and more unannounced special guests. Access is limited, but VIP reservations may still be available via email at taiparkcity@taogroup.com. For those averse to the “untz untz” genre, The Cabin on Main Street is hosting a variety of live musical acts throughout the festival, from folk instrumental to country. Tickets available at thecabinparkcity.com.

A few more Sundance nightlife special mentions: The Pendry is hosting a live music series at the base of the mountain from Jan. 23—Feb. 2 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., featuring tunes, comfort food and cocktails. Head up to their rooftop where the The Pool House Bar & Grill is serving up panoramic mountain, raw bar items and bubbles. Another on-mountain experience; Deer Valley’s newly opened Chute Eleven has just announced their Slopeside Sets. The intimate DJ sets combine top-tier entertainment with elevated apres bites, musical acts over Sundance include Austin Millz, Wuki, Honeyluv and Night Tales.

After all your Wasatch Back reveling, head into downtown Salt Lake City where Frame by Frame is hosting a free end-of-fest pop-up. Presented in partnership with The Blocks Art District, Utah Film Commission, Visit Salt Lake, Fice Gallery, Salt Lake City and Sundance Film Festival, the event will feature live DJ sets, art installations, live screen printing and more. Head to www.theblocksslc.com/framebyframe for more information

Eat Your Way Through Park City 

There’s just something about sitting through a world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival that rouses your appetite. Of course, Park City has never been lacking in the dining department. Festival goers should expect an explosion of activity in the mountain town, and many restaurants fill up quickly with reservations. To make your dining experience that much easier, we’ve compiled a list of Park City hotspots serving up delectable meals all festival long. 

Jan 20
Love0

Four Free Sundance Screenings for Locals

By Sundance

The 2025 Sundance Film Festival begins this weekend and runs through Feb. 2nd. For locals, these two weeks are marked by a flurry of film buffs inundating our street with their expensive winter ware and industry speak. We overhear our fair share of “Wow this little ski town is so cute!” and “What do you mean I need my ID?” It’s like Salt Lake and Park City are discovered all over again. For most locals, the ones who’d rather our rad state stay a secret, Sundance is blacked out as a time to avoid the riff-raff of Main Street and instead explore the festival offerings in a more remote way. 

To accommodate our wish, Sundance is once again offering free Local Lens screenings. This year’s lineup includes four in-person screenings and one online screening—all free and available to Utah residents. To register, purchase a single film ticket through the Sundance Film Festival website and check out as normal. 

Four In-Person Films Free to Locals 

What: Omaha with a special screening of the short film The Long Valley
When: Wednesday, 01/29 at 6:15 p.m. 
Where: The Ray Theater, Park City 
Synopsis: After a family tragedy, siblings Ella and Charlie are unexpectedly woken up by their dad and taken on a journey across the country, experiencing a world they’ve never seen before. As their adventure unfolds, Ella begins to understand that things might not be what they seem.

What: Deaf President Now! 
When: Thursday, 01/30 at 4:30 p.m. 
Where: The Rose Wagner Theater, Salt Lake City
Synopsis: During eight tumultuous days in 1988 at the world’s only Deaf university, four students must find a way to lead an angry mob — and change the course of history.

What: Best of Fest
When: Sunday, 02/02 at 3 p.m. 
Where: The Ray Theater, Park City 
About: Sundance Institute’s Utah Community Program presents complimentary screenings of this year’s Festival favorites to Locals in Salt Lake and Summit Counties. In addition to serving as a thank you to our local community for hosting the Festival, these screenings allow many in the community to participate in our programming who may otherwise not have an opportunity.

What: Best of Fest
When: Sunday, 02/02 at 5:30 p.m. 
Where: The Rose Wagner Theater, Salt Lake City
About: Sundance Institute’s Utah Community Program presents complimentary screenings of this year’s Festival favorites to Locals in Salt Lake and Summit Counties. In addition to serving as a thank you to our local community for hosting the Festival, these screenings allow many in the community to participate in our programming who may otherwise not have an opportunity.

Online Sundance Film Screening Access 

If an at-home screening is more your style, Sundance is offering locals the choice of four films to screen at home: Sally, Speak, East of Wall, and Where the Wind Comes From. Sign up here to receive your promo code which can be used at checkout. 

Need help navigating this year’s festival? Check out our top tips here!

Dec 16
Love0
December events Utah

Your Week Ahead: December 16—December 22

By Arts & Culture

The holidays are nearing and Salt Lake is celebrating the season with another exciting week of events. From festive performances to winter bazaars and visits from Santa, there are plenty of December events in Utah. For even more events happening in Salt Lake City this week and throughout the month, visit our community events calendar!

Monday 12/16

What: Manheim Steamroller Christmas 
Where: The Eccles 
When: 12/16-12/17 select showtimes
America’s favorite holiday show returns for its 35th season! The traveling ensemble will perform on The Eccles stage for two nights, bringing with them dazzling multimedia effects and a signature sound of the season. 

What: A Christmas Carol
Where: Hale Center Theatre
When: Various dates through 12/28
HCT’s 40th retelling of Dicken’s Famous Tale, and the show never disappoints. Scrooge’s timeless journey is told alongside dancing, music, lighting and costume. Select dates still available. 

Tuesday 12/17

What: Candlelight Christmas
Where: This is The Place
When: Through 12/23
Step back through time at This is The Place’s pioneer-era Christmas Village, complete with heritage carolers, a live nativity, and a magical shopping experience. 

What: Trees of Diversity exhibit 
Where: Utah Cultural Celebration Center
When: On display through 12/31
In a tradition that began over 20 years ago, the Trees of Diversity represent an array of cultural and ethnic backgrounds and family traditions. Enjoy the range of colorful trees, wreaths, nativities and festive decor as you explore the exhibit, and stop by the Winter Scenes and Holiday Dreams exhibit while you’re there. 

What: Annual Christmas Carol Sing a long
Where: The Delta Center 
When: 12/17 at 7 p.m. 
Warm up those pipes, Utah’s annual Christmas Sing-a-Long is back. This year’s free event features special musical guests Calvary Baptist Church Choir, Jon Schmidt of the Piano Guys, and more. 

Wednesday 12/18

What: Santa’s Village
Where: Daybreak
When: 12/18-12/21
Daybreak has been transformed into a magical Christmas village filled with craft stations, holiday decor, and special appearances by Buddy the Elf, The Grinch, and of course Santa. This event is free to attend but requires a timeslot reservation. Register here. 

What: Utah Grizzlies v. Tahoe Knight Monsters
Where: Maverik Center 
When: 12/18 at 7 p.m. 
Cheer on our Grizzlies as they take on Tahoe’s Knight Monsters on Wednesday. Save on tickets for Bud Light Wednesdays, when online fees are waived 50%. 

Thursday 12/19

What: Odyssey Dance Theatre’s Christmas Spectacular SPECTACULAR
Where: Grand Theatre, 1575 S State St., SLC
When: 12/19-12/23
Odyssey Dance Theatre has compiled all the holiday favorites into one ultimate show, featuring excerpts from A Christmas Carol, The Nutcracker, A Christmas Story, the Rockettes and more. Purchase your tickets here. 

Friday 12/20

What: Jolly Holly Diva Drag Show
Where: Metro Music Hall
When: 12/20 at 8:30 p.m. 
Enjoy a nostalgia-packed extravaganza with tribute acts to Elvis Presley, Elkton John, Jack Skellington and more. The award-winning Jason CoZmo will be taking to the stage to perform his larger-than-life impersonations and interactive stand-up comedy. Tickets are available here. 

What: Festive Fridays at Wheeler Farm
Where: Historic Wheeler Farm
When: 12/20 at 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. 
Bundle up in your best festive winter wear and enjoy an evening at Wheeler Farm. The farm is dressed in its holiday best with holiday light displays and a meet-and-greet area with Santa. 

Saturday 12/21

What: Celebrate the Winter Solstice 
Where: The Natural History Museum 
When: 12/21 at 10:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. 
Welcome the shortest day and longest night of the year with NHMU. The museum will be hosting a sun catcher and paper snowflake workshop, and exploring the magic of polymers by making Insta-Snow. Register here. 

What: Ken Sanders Rare Books Flea Market
Where: The Leonardo
When: 12/21-12/22 at 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
KSRB has partnered with the Leonardo to host a weekend of local shopping. Find the perfect gift amongst artisan vendors, handmade goods and vintage finds. 

What: Winter Solstice Bazaar 
Where: Millcreek Common
When: 12/21 at 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. 
Peruse an eclectic winter market with artisan foods, creative wares and holiday entertainment. Try your skills on the ice rink afterward all lit up for the Christmas season. 

What: A Very Merry Christmas Party 
Where: The Westerner
When: 12/21 at 6 p.m. 
Join the Westerner’s holiday celebrations with an ugly sweater contest, seasonal cocktails, pictures with Santa and more. 

Sunday 12/22

What: Fantasy at the Bay Light Show
Where: Willard Bay State Park
When: through 12/23 at 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. 
Load up the family station wagon and enjoy a drive-through light show at Willard State Park.

Dec 10
Love0
Christmas dining Utah

Christmas and New Year’s Eve Dining in Utah 2024

By Eat & Drink

The presents are en route, hidden, or wrapped, and all that’s left on the agenda is that dreaded Christmas dinner. Instead of adding cooking and cleanup to your holiday to-do list, we’ve curated a list of eateries willing to do all the hard work for you. Plus you’ll be supporting incredible local restaurants who need all the love they can get this holiday. So sit back, relax, and let somebody else do the cooking this Christmas season. Check out our top picks for Christmas dining in Utah:

Salt Lake City and The Wasatch Front

Arlo
Hosting a Christmas Eve feast has never been easier with Arlo’s new holiday meal kits. Each kit serves four to six people and is complete with amazing sides, cocktail mixes and more—just add your own main protein! Orders can be placed here. 

The Aerie
Snowbird is hosting two special dinners at The Aerie on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. While the menu’s are still pending, you can be sure to enjoy a unique winter evening of flavor and fun. Stay afterward for a firework show and balloon drop. 

Bambara
Enjoy a relaxing Christmas Day brunch with Bambara. The restaurant’s new Chef JV has curated a lovely menu with standouts like a seafood display, Duck Confit Croquettes, Intermountain Mushroom Risotto and more. Select reservation times available, $100 per person. Make your reservation here. 

La Caille
Every Sunday, La Caille hosts a special Santa Brunch with menu highlights like Berry Lemon Curd Pancakes, Ham & Gruyere Cheese Omelet, Filet Benedict and more. Make your reservations online, here. 

Cucina Wine Bar
Cucina is reprising their New Year’s Eve wine dinner this year, with just 30 seats available. Ring in the New Year with a six-course gourmet dinner and exquisite wine pairings. $200 per person on Dec. 31st, 6 p.m. Reserve your seat here.

Current Fish & Oyster
Ring in the New Year with a seafood feast at Current. For $95 diners can enjoy delicious earth and sea items like Mahi Maji, Filet Mignon, Crab Cakes and Caviar. Make your reservations here. 

Francks Restaurant
French restaurant Franck’s is hosting two special holiday dinners this season on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. On Christmas Eve, diners will enjoy a delectable five-course feast with items like Yorkshire Pudding, Wagyu Beef Cheek, Carmelized Grouper and more. Join the restaurant on Dec. 31st for another upscale course dinner with seven courses and an optional wine pairing. View the whole menu and make your reservations here. 

Harmon’s
Take the stress out of cooking with heat-and-serve dishes from Harmon’s. Options include Deluxe Ham Dinner, Plant-Based Holiday Meal, Green Chile Porki Tamale Meal and more. A La Carte items available, find them all here.

Laurel Brasserie & Bar
Enjoy a tried-and-true Christmas Buffet at the Grand America’s Laurel Brasserie & Bar. The restaurant is offering its festive feast on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Reservations are required, make yours here.

Little America
Little America’s Christmas brunch is back this year for both Xmas eve and day. Seating is available on a first-come-first-serve basis at their Lucky H Buffet and The Coffee Shop. 

Mar|Muntanya
The Spanish Basque-inspired restaurant inside the sleek Hyatt Regency hotel welcomes diners to a holiday brunch of bites and bubbles.  Enjoy hearty Spanish tapas along with brunch faves inside their cozy outdoor Alpen Globes. Reservations available on Tock.

Salt Republic
Enjoy a decadent Christmas Day brunch buffet at The Salt Republic with items like Pumpkin Brulee Cake, Slow-Roasted Ribeye and Applewood Smoked Ham. $75 for adults, children 12 and under eat for $37. Afterward, head up to the Hyatt’s balcony for photos with Santa and other holiday vignettes. Reservations available on tock.

Tuscany Restaurant
Christmas Eve reservations at Tuscany are now available! For one-night only the restaurant will be serving a special holiday menu featuring Wagyu Short Rib, Grilled Australian Lamb Chob, Pan Seared Nantucket Scallop and more. $100 per seat. Click here to make reservations. 

Urban Hill
Ring in the New Year with Chef Nick Zocco’s curated four-course menu for $139 per guest. Menu highlights include Bourbon Glazed Texas Qual, Day Boat Scallops, Spanish Blue Fin Tuna, Black Truffle Risotto and more. View the entire menu, and make reservations, here. 

Park City and the Wasatch Back

The Goldener Hirsch Inn
 Gather with loved ones on New Year’s Eve \ at Goldener Hirsch, where a five-course prix fixe holiday menu has been curated by the award-winning culinary team. $195 per person, reservations available on OpenTable. The restaurant is also hosting a special brunch on New Year’s Day featuring savory house-made pastries, a mimosa bar and plenty of spirited toasting.

Grub Steak
Grub Steak’s New Years Eve dinner includes a Beef Wellington, Creamed Spinach, Chocolate Lava Cake and more. $89.75 per person, for reservations call 435-649-8060. 

Homestead Resort
Midway’s Homestead Resort is hosting three holiday dining events on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s. Their NYE dinner features a unique menu at Simon’s restaurant with a special menu, live music and a countdown to midnight. 

Hill’s Kitchen
Make a feast for eight in as little as an hour with Hill’s Kitchen’s heat-and-serve feasts. For $345 you’ll receive Niman Ranch Rib Roast, Fennel & Herb Crusted Salmon, Winter Squash, Alpine Swiss & Gruyere Potato Au Gratin and more. . Additional sides available for purchase. Pickup Dec. 24th. Place your order here.

Hyatt Centric Park City
Hyatt is hosting 12 Days of Centric with festive holiday activities and delicious meals. Check out their Christmas eve Prix-Fixe dinner, or Christmas Buffet for an unforgettable dining experience. Full menus and reservations here. 

The Mariposa at Deer Valley
Enjoy a four-course New Years Eve Dinner at Deer Valley’s The Mariposa. The upscale steakhouse will also offer a Laurent Perrier Champagne pairing. $90 per person, make your reservation here. 

Montage Deer Valley
The Montage is hosting four unique holiday specials this season, including a Christmas Buffet with live music, and a NYE dinner with a four-course menu. Find all menus here. 

Pendry Park City
Hosted at Pendry’s KITA restaurant and Apres Pendry, guests can enjoy an array of holiday celebrations from a NYE party to a NYE dinner at KITA. Menus and reservations are available here. 

Purple Sage
Western American bistro Purple Sage invites you to join their New Year’s Eve celebration with a coursed meal, featuring items like Chicken Tamale Pancakes, Braised Buffalo Short Rib, Butternut Squash Ravioli and House-made Butterscotch Pudding. $145 per person. Reservations available here. 

Riverhorse on Main
 Ring in 2025 with a 5-course plated dinner, live music, and champagne toast at midnight at Riverhorse on Main’s annual New Year’s Eve bash. Extremely limited seating begins at 7 p.m., reservations available via email at events@riverhorseparkcity.com

Windy Ridge Bakery
Order signature holiday sides and desserts, or a complete holiday dinner! Favorites include scalloped potatoes, whipped sweet potato, dinner rolls and sauteed green beans. Don’t forget a signature Mile High Apple Pie from Windy Ridge Bakery, a Christmas staple, available for pick-up before Christmas Day. To order, click here. Orders close on 12/16 at 5 p.m.

350 Main
Indulge in a 4-course dinner on New Year’s Eve starting with Hamachi Crudo, Crispy Cauliflower and Pork Belly. Mains include options of Charred Elk Chops, Muscovy Duck Breast or Creole Seared Scallops. $150 per person, reservations available here.

Are you hosting a holiday gathering this season? Find top hosting tips and tricks from local experts here!

Dec 03
Love0
DSC_5173

Kilby’s 2025 Lineup Drops

By Music

The sixth rendition of the ever-growing Kilby Block Party will take place May 15 to 18 at the Utah State Fairpark, and festival presenters Sartain & Saunders (S&S) have gone all out to provide Salt Lakers with another jam-packed weekend of local and national acts. 

What began as an alt-block party outside of Kilby Court in 2019 has ballooned into the hottest spring ticket of the year. Last year we saw big-draw acts like The Strokes, Vampire Weekend, Wu-Tang Clan and LCD Soundsystem. This year promises more high-quality bookings. In their typical dream-big fashion, S&S has expanded Kilby Block Party 6 from three to four days, featuring 75 artists and an even larger festival footprint. Taking over the Utah State Fairpark, the 2025 Block Party is prioritizing festival goers with added space for amenities like water stations and relaxation areas. Organizers have also taken complaints about audio bleed from stage to stage into consideration and mapped out new areas for smaller stages to spread the sound around.

Ticket Info

The four-day festival begins on the evening of Thursday, May 14, 2025, and runs through Sunday, May 18, 2025. Like 2023, S&S is offering four-day passes only this year which will go on sale Wednesday, Dec. 4 at 10 a.m. Early bird passes for KBP6 went fast before the lineup dropped, so expect some competition when it comes to snagging this first tier of tickets! Of course, we’ll be providing readers with tons of pre-festival coverage as well as day-by-day reviews and photography of the 2025 festival, check out last year’s coverage here. 

The 2025 Kilby headliner list has some stunners, including New Order, which is grinding out late-career touring like pros but might be moving toward the last-chance to-see column.

  • New Order

  • Beach House 

  • Weezer 

  • Justice 

The so-called supporting acts are almost more exciting than the headliners. We’re looking at you Devo, which recently just started touring again. Future Islands and St. Vincent also raised our eyebrows. Here’s the full list.

  • Devo

  • Future Islands

  • Yo La Tengo

  • Slowdive

  • Car Seat Headrest

  • Wallows

  • St. Vincent 

  • Toro Y Moi

  • TV on the Radio

  • Still Woozy

The supporting, supporting cast has a bright smattering of local acts (in bold) amid an interesting mix of up-and-coming performers and bands. Kilby’s free-range setup makes for a great chance to discover something new. 

  • Teen Suicide, Levelor, Julien Baker & Torres, Built to Spill, Perfume Genius, Peter McPoland, Vacations, Youth Lagoon, The Lemon Twigs, Momma, Hey, Nothing, Hovvdy, Lunar Vacation, Wishy, Been Stellar, Being Dead, Cardinal Bloom, Free Range, Melancholy Club, Josaleigh Pollett, Montell Fish, Black Country, New Road, Panda Bear, Gang of Four, The Black Angels, IDKHOW, George Clanton, Wisp, Friko, Youbet, Over Under, Marchall Van Leuven, Hurtado, Nation of Language, Tennis, Real Estate, Boa, Jay Som, Geese, The Pains of Being Pure at Heart, Vagabon, Frost Children, Nourished by Time, Husbands, Lime Garden, Wlat Disco, Faerybabyy, Beeson, Gift, Hannah Frances, Poolhouse, Elowyn.

Other Kilby Court News 

Kilby Court, Utah’s longest-running all-ages venue and the namesake of its biggest music festival, was recently sold to venture group Blaser Ventures in late October. The ownership change marks a new era for the venue. Buyer Brandon Blaser has assured Salt Lake music fans he plans to preserve the integrity of the venue. “Kilby is just such an essential part of the fabric of Salt Lake City and the Granary District. It’s one of those cultural icons and moments that is very unique to Salt Lake,” Blaser told development news source Building Salt Lake. “The loss of it would be absolutely detrimental to the history of the Granary area and what makes the Granary so special. We view it as an essential piece of our history and culture that we are proud to be partners in helping to preserve.”

The purchase of Kilby is another feather in Blaser’s cap of Granary Area acquisitions, which have included the Post District, Granary Square and the historic Pickle & Hide building next to the music venue. According to Building Salt Lake, all of Blaser’s projects in the area focus on adaptive reuse, rejuvenating local businesses, artist workshop spaces and other community hubs. Plans for the 2.3-acre Kilby Court development will follow suit as Blaser aims to reconfigure existing industrial and residential spaces into a cultural haven. Read Building Salt Lake’s full coverage here. (And let’s hope Blaser keeps his promises.)

Meanwhile, while you anticipate and work the angles on 2025 tickets, reminisce with our 2024 reviews and coverage. 

Find images from the 2024 Kilby Block Party Below.

Photo credit Natalie Simpson @beehivephotovideo

Dec 02
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Family Surfing at Waikiki beach_SLM ND24_Hawaii Tourism Authority

Mele Kalikimaka: Enjoy the Holidays in Waikiki

By Travel

Here we are again. As much as we dream of a white Christmas, the snow storms and low temps mark the first tendrils of winter’s long grasp on the Beehive State. Winter is long enough. Why not trim a few days off the snowy calendar and escape to Hawaii? You might miss the lights at Temple Square, sure. But we think the endless summer of Hawaii is a trade-up. Instead of shoveling snow, you’ll explore outdoor adventures and unique cultural expressions, witness the season’s record-breaking surf and enjoy east-meets-west dining. Welcome to Waikiki on the fair Isle of Oahu. It sure beats grandma’s fruitcake.   

Christmas in Waikiki
Waikiki’s long, rolling waves are ideal for both beginner and seasoned surfers.
Photos courtesy Hawaii Tourism Authority

‘Where the Sea Meets the Sky’  

In the 1800s when the Hawaiian monarchy ruled the islands, Waikiki Beach was an exclusive playground for the royals to lord over the scenic beaches and enjoy the waves in privacy. Today, the famous beach is the jewel of Honolulu, a vibrant city with world-class shopping, high-rise hotels and culinary gems surrounding this brilliant backdrop of sun (and beginner-friendly) surf. Make Waikiki your base and know that Oahu’s wonders area short drive away. (You are on an island, after all.)

No. 1: On The Trail

Christmas in Waikiki
Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is a vast 400-acre rainforest garden free and open to the public.
Photos courtesy Hawaii Tourism Authority

Oahu boasts spectacular volcanic ranges dotted with waterfalls and all-level hiking terrain. Just 12 minutes from Waikiki, Diamond Head rewards hikers who bust out the short but steep .8-mile ascent with breathtaking 360 views of the Pacific Ocean. To reduce overcrowding, non-residents must make a reservation online and pay a $10 fee per vehicle(gostateparks.hawaii.gov/diamondhead). In Hawaii, do go chasing waterfalls. Waimano Falls in the island’s center is reached by a challenging trek through a collection of natural pools. Just 30 minutes Southeast, Manoa Falls is a moderate family-friendly walk through a bamboo forest and banyan trees. And, while the trail gets a little muddy during Hawaii’s rainy season, it’s also the best time to marvel at the high-flowing 150-foot waterfall.

No. 2: Surfing & Sea Life

If you haven’t rented a car, consider using the Turo service or navigating public transit to visit North Shore, a surfing mecca where, during winter swells, waves reach up to 50 feet in height. Spectators can watch some of the world’s best surfers come to compete during major competitions throughout December —the HIC Haleiwa Pro and The Vans Pipe Masters. Intermediate surfers can rent a wetsuit and board from Surf N Sea and head to Pipeline, Sunset Beach or Waimea Bay for more achievable waves. For snorkeling and wildlife sightings, Laniakea Beach’s calm waters and sandy beaches are frequented by giant green sea turtles (Honu) soaking up the rays. On the opposite side of the island, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is brimming with marine life. Protected by a volcanic cone and its status as a marine life conservation park, the bay’s coral bottom and clear waters are a sure bet for snorkeling among the rainbow of Hawaii’s aquatic life (hanaumabaystatepark.com).

Christmas in Waikiki
Hanauma Bay State Park
is a prime snorkeling spot.
Photo by Ryan Tishken/AdobeStock

No. 3: Cultural highlights 

Find time to learn more of Hawaii’s deep and vibrant cultural history. (This doesn’t mean boring, there’s no shortage of fun ways to do so.) The Royal Hawaiian Center in the heart of Waikiki presents traditional Hawaiian dance performances every week and hosts a festive Rock-A-Hula show during the holidays (royalhawaiiancenter.com). Learn more about the early history of Hawaii and the neighboring Polynesian Islands at the Polynesian Cultural Center, which hosts daily luaus, theatrical performances and cultural activities. Take a guided tour through its “Islands of Polynesia,” a living museum dedicated to preserving the traditions of Tonga, Tahiti, Samoa, Fiji, Aotearoa and Hawaii. (polynesia.com). Iolani Palace, the residence of Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs, offers succinct tours perfect for filling a rainy afternoon (iolanipalace.org), and Bishop Museum is filled with millions of artifacts, photos and heirlooms from throughout Hawaiian history (bishopmuseum.org).

No. 4: Eat your way around Waikiki

Waikiki has much to offer your tastebuds, from a quick and delicious ABC Store musubi (a beach day must-have) to casual noodle shops and elevated island cuisine. Start the day with some pink pancakes at Surf Lanai, an airy beachside cafe inside the Royal Hawaiian Hotel (surflanaiwaikiki.com). For a hearty lunch, visit Marugame Udon in Waikiki which has developed a rabid fan base for its well-priced noodles (marugameudon.com). Family-owned and operated since 1961, Rainbow Drive-In serves classic Hawaiian comfort food in a retro setting. Pro Tip: Order the Mix Plate: BBQ Beef, Boneless Chicken and Mahi Mahi with extra gravy, and thank me later (rainbowdrivein.com). To satisfy a seafood craving, Herringbone inside International Marketplace offers “$3 buck shuck” happy hour oysters alongside a fresh ocean-to-table menu (aoki.group.com/herringbonewaikiki.com). Finally, for a lux night out visit MW Restaurant and opt for the five-course tasting menu. The intimate eatery is curiously located on the second floor of a luxury car dealership, but don’t let its offbeat setting detract from the high-concept menu showcasing regional flavors (mwrestaurant.com.)

Owned by husband and wife duo Wade Ueoka and Michelle Karr-Ueoka, MW is a sleek dining experience specializing in regional cuisine and ingredients.
Photo by Melissa Chang

Christmas in Waikiki
Owned by husband and wife duo Wade Ueoka and Michelle Karr-Ueoka, MW is a sleek dining experience specializing in regional cuisine and ingredients.
Photo by Melissa Chang

Holiday Happenings 

Get in the festive spirit with “Seven Days of Mele,” a week-long celebration of hula and song on Waikiki Beach Walk Plaza (waikikibeachwalk.com). The Holiday Lights tour is a two-hour hop-on-hop-off trolley bus tour through Honolulu’s most lit-up neighborhoods, Christmas caroling isn’t mandatory but highly encouraged (holidaylightshi.com). On the Friday following Thanksgiving Day, the Waikiki Holiday Parade takes over Kalakaua Avenue with marching bands, dancers and floats. And for those holiday imbibers, Christmas tiki bars pop up throughout Waikiki like The Christmas Bar at Twin Fin Hotel, Sippin’ Santa at Prince Waikiki and Ho-Ho Holiday Tiki Bar at International Marketplace. 

Getting here (with Aloha)   

Christmas in Waikiki
Waikiki’s white sandy beaches and world-class surf were once exclusively reserved for Hawaiian royalty.
Photo courtesy of Luxury Collection Resort, Hawaii Tourism Authority

Last May, Hawaiian Airlines launched its first-ever nonstop route between Salt Lake City and Honolulu. The new route will get you to Hawaii’s capital city in about seven hours. And while Delta also offers a non-stop, we say fly Hawaiian. The airline is well-known for its warm island hospitality and the new flight features a locally-inspired menu curated by Honolulu chef Wade Ueoka and Michelle Karr Ueoka. For added travel ease, the airline offers its premium airport service, which provides passengers with a dedicated host for arrival to and departure from Honolulu. And on the way out, SLC passengers will get exclusive access to the HNL’s new speakeasy-style lounge, called Apt. 1929. Inside the swanky parlor, guests enjoy luxury amenities, personalized meals and craft cocktails from the James Beard-winning Bar Leather Apron. You’ll want to get to the airport early for this (hawaiianairlines.com).

Nov 28
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A tropical Santa Inspired Cocktail_SLM ND24_Flanker Kitchen + Sporting Club

Blast to Christmas Past with Flanker’s Holiday Pop-Up

By Uncategorized

The Flanker team collaborated with the Utah Arts Alliance to pack their Gateway location with “wow” moments, from thousands of lights wrapping the bar to giant gingerbread installations throughout the space. Hardcore holiday fans will be delighted to discover the subtle nods to their favorite seasonal films in the holiday pop-up, one scantily clad leg lamp included (“It’s a Major Award!”) Amping up the Christmas whimsy, Flanker’s mixologists have whipped up a signature cocktail menu filled with festive flavors, unique garnishes and on-theme vessels. It’s an adult’s winter wonderland. 

Flanker Holiday Pop-Up
Flanker Kitchen + Sporting Club decks the hall of their parlor for the holidays.
photo Courtesy Flanker Kitchen + Sporting Club

Transforming Flanker’s sizable dining room and parlor into a living Hallmark card is no easy feat, and the bar team collaborates with several local designers and carpenters to accomplish the task. In years past, Flanker’s Ryan Hopay brought Modern Display and the Utah Arts Alliance to help supply massive amounts of wrapping paper, Christmas bows and enough twinkling lights to make Clarke Griswold ruffle in jealousy.

The build-out takes a few weeks to design and layout, and Ryan is always finding new ways for guests to enjoy the space. “We push our imagination every year to try and find new ways for our guests to experience Christmas at Flankers.” This year attendees can expect larger-than-life ornaments, nutcrackers and Christmas trees placed throughout the dining room. Flanker’s backroom tiki parlor will still be the main star of the show, starting with the hallway lined with LED ornament archways and brilliant holiday lights on all sides. “The Hallway is always a very big ‘wow’ moment,” says Hopay. “It gives the guest a little taste of what they’re about to walk into.” 

Carver Road’s Beverage and Hospitality Culture VP and renowned mixologist Francesco Lafranconi created the cocktail menu around the concept of holiday nostalgia. “Finding drinks that are only available for a certain time of year allows our guests to appreciate the moment,” he says. “Flavors like sage, cranberry, cardamom and ginger aren’t only delicious, but they have an emotional value.” 

Flanker Holiday Pop-Up
The festive design is the result of a partnership between Flanker and Utah Arts Alliance.
Photo courtesy Flanker Kitchen + Sporting Club

Taking their commitment to Christmas one step further, each liquid creation is served in a unique mug or glass, like last year’s Milk & Cookies cocktail which combined Titos, Kahlua, Heavy Cream and Vanilla-Cinnamon Syrup and served up in an adorable ceramic milk carton. Another favorite from 2023, The Grinch featured a Tiki-forward mix of Wahaka Mezcal, Pineapple Rum, Ginger Beer and Bitters sipped from a holiday mug with the likeness of Grinch himself returns. This year, guests can expect a new list of signature cocktails offering both festive flavor and heart-tugging sentiment. “Our holiday menu will fully evoke that Christmas excitement and nostalgia,” Lafranconi promises. 

The special menu at Flanker’s holiday pop-up is sure to include signature, jolly-themed drinks
photo Courtesy Flanker Kitchen + Sporting Club.

Along with a range of festive libations, Flanker’s Chef Daniel is whipping up a fun selection of small bites and desserts. Last year’s DIY S’mores platter was a hit with guests who were given a mini flame and all the fixins to recreate the childhood memory tableside. Guests can look forward to similar immersive food experiences this season like homemade pizzas served in a Little Nero’s pizza box—prepubescent delivery kid not included. Also in the cards, the Flanker’s crew is planning a packed program with holiday activities from movie screenings to DJ sets, and plenty of holiday card photo ops. Find their most up-to-date schedule on their website. 

Flanker’s Holiday Pop-Up will be up and running right after Thanksgiving and is open during their regular business hours.  

If You Go

Flanker Kitchen + Sporting Club 
6 N Rio Grande St. Suite 35, Salt Lake City.
flankerslc.com