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Morgan Hart

Morgan Hart is an almost-graduate from the English program at Brigham Young University. Student by day and server by night, she fills her time by reading, writing, and trying new restaurants, with a few ditch days here and there to ski.

Flanker SLC Saloon-094

Giddy Up: Western-Themed Bars in Utah 

By After Dark

Flanker’s Hidden Boot Saloon

Tucked behind the lively Flanker Kitchen + Sporting Club at the Gateway, you’ll find a surprise waiting: the Hidden Boot Saloon. This rotating speakeasy transforms with each season, and its current Western incarnation is all boots, neon, and nostalgia. Expect a lively mash-up of vintage cowboy decor, glowing LED signs, and the unmistakable charm of swinging saloon doors.

Western Bars Utah
The bar is dressed in its wild-west best. Photo courtesy of Flanker.

“At Flanker we pride ourselves on curating immersive experiences that bring our locals together, and our latest pop-up, the Hidden Boot Saloon, is no exception,” says Francesco Lafranconi, VP of Beverage & Hospitality at Carver Road. “From the moment you walk through the swinging doors, you’ll feel the Western spirit and know you are in for an exciting, unforgettable evening.

For those thrill-seeking revelers, the speakeasy also includes a mechanical bull. Whether you’re channeling your inner rodeo star or just along for the ride (and the inevitable tumble), it’s a playful centerpiece with a cushioned landing for all levels of bravery.

To complete the Western experience, the bar serves up a special cocktail menu showcasing regional flavors and modern flair. Take the Cowboy Colada, a fusion-style piña colada that combines caramel whiskey, High West Double Rye, house-made colada mix and pinto beans—served with a crunchy bacon-coated straw, naturally. Other standouts include the RattleSnake Milk (spiked with Ancho Reyes Chile liqueur, rum, ginger-laced condensed milk, and a whisper of absinthe) and the Here Comes Dolly, a charcoal-blackened sipper with Tito’s, apple, berry, seltzer, and a pinch of sea salt. Hidden Boot also offers plenty of zero-proof options, alongside hearty Western-inspired bites like pulled pork sliders, BBQ burnt end wedge salad and carnitas tacos. 

From the bull rides to the bar menu, Hidden Boot Saloon delivers a lighthearted dose of saloon-style escapism—just don’t wait too long. This pop-up rides off into the sunset at the end of summer.

If you go…

Flanker Kitchen + Sporting Club 
6 N Rio Grande St Suite 35, SLC 
Open Wednesdays and Thursdays 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.  

More Saloon-Style Fun in Utah

The Westerner
Salt Lake’s first country dance hall features live music every weekend, and free line dancing lessons during the week. 

3360 S. Redwood Road, West Valley 
Open Wednesday through Saturday 6 p.m. to 2 a.m 

Aces High Saloon
A no-frills neighborhood bar dedicated to metal, punk rock and outlaw country music. Make yourself comfortable at a leather-tufted booth and enjoy live music most days of the week. 

1588 S. State Street, SLC 
Open Monday through Sunday 12 p.m. to 1 a.m. 

Kemo Sabe
At the top of Park City’s Main Street, Kemo Sabe is a high-end western ware boutique with a well-kept secret. Behind their storefront is a hidden speakeasy serving up saloon-style sips in  a stylish setting. 

268 Main St., Park City 
Open Monday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 


2025 Utah Arts Festival Headliners Announced

By Music

Salt Lake City’s thriving art scene is always finding ways to celebrate local, national, and international artists dabbling in all mediums from music to painting. Get ready for one of Utah’s legacy events celebrating its 49th year: the Utah Arts Festival! Returning to Library Square in Salt Lake City, “The Great Utah Get-Together” is a community celebration of any artistic medium: visual, music, dance, film, literary, culinary arts, and more. Mark your calendars for June 19-22 for a colorful celebration.

There is plenty to marvel at over the four-day event. Browse over 170 visual artists’ work displayed in booths. Admire entries to the festival’s film program, and engage in hands-on workshops. With over 125 performing arts shows to choose from, applaud performers engaging in anything from hip-hop to street theater. And don’t forget the main headliners taking the big stage each night! Four incredible and renowned music artists will perform each night of the event.

Utah Arts Festival
Leftover Salmon Photo Credit Tobin Voggesser

Opening on Thursday, June 19, is Leftover Salmon from Colorado. As one of America’s most beloved festival acts, they’ll kick off the event with a rockin’ mix between traditional bluegrass and rock, Cajun/Zydeco and folk music. Robert Randolph takes the stage on Friday, June 20, with his four-time Grammy-nominated guitar skills.

Click to read our interview with Leftover Salmon band member Drew Emmitt.

Utah Arts Festival
Souls of Mischief.

Following on Saturday, June 21, Souls of Mischief will rock the crowd with their groundbreaking hip-hop. Don’t miss their blend of old-school and contemporary beats! The final performer on Sunday, June 22 is the Venezuelan songwriter, musician and producer MV Caldera, bringing her talent for contemporary Latin music to the stage.

Utah Arts Festival
MV Caldera.

With a lineup like this, you’ll want to snag your tickets ASAP. Buy them now on the UAF website. You can find 4-pack and 10-pack options, along with VIP options for hospitality patio access.

As Festival Executive Director Aimee Dunsmore said, “This year’s lineup reflects the Festival’s commitment to presenting transformative musical experiences. Each of these artists has helped shape their respective genres while continuing to push artistic boundaries.” With more than 35,00 attendees, the Utah Arts Festival is the largest outdoor multi-disciplinary arts event in Utah. You don’t want to miss this grand event featuring some of the most talented artists all in one place.

When you go:

Where: Library Square. 200 East 400 South, Salt Lake City
When: June 19–22, 2025
Hours:

  • June 19, 5 p.m.–11 p.m.
  • June 20-22, Noon–11:00 p.m. daily

More information: https://www.uaf.org/


Read more of our music coverage and get the latest on the arts and culture scene in and around Utah. And while you’re here, subscribe and get six issues of Salt Lake magazine, your curated guide to the best of life in Utah.

How to Train for Marathons and Half Marathons in Utah

By Adventures

A beginner’s guide (from a beginner) to planning, training and successfully running your first marathon or half marathon in Utah.

I never considered myself a runner. I grew up playing soccer, which means there was no point in running if it didn’t involve chasing a ball around. When I sporadically decided to start training for a half marathon a year and a half ago, I couldn’t imagine running six miles, let alone thirteen (and 26.2…that was like the end of the world)! It’s overwhelming to start training for a long distance race like I did, but as I took it one day at a time, I found that I fell in love with running in a way I never expected to. Even without chasing a soccer ball.

April is here, the sun is warming up Utah, and many of us need something to help revamp our New Year’s Resolutions—why not soak up the vitamin D by beginning your first half marathon training? To help you get started, I’ve compiled a list of beginner-friendly advice. 

Pick a Race

The first step is to commit. Pick a race, sign up, pay for it. There’s no backing out now!

When I started my quest to cross the finish line, I made my way all around Utah by training and racing. There are hordes of full and half marathons in the Beehive State where you can explore new places while pushing yourself to achieve something. Here are a few of the races I have done:

Utah Valley Marathon runner. Photo courtesy Utah Valley Marathon.

  • The Utah Valley Marathon down Provo Canyon is one of the biggest races in the state, so it’s easy to navigate everything from sign-up to post-finish line chocolate milk. They host a marathon, half marathon, 10k, and 5k in June. This is a great first race.
  • Some say the Drop 13 Big Cottonwood is the fastest half marathon in Utah. Starting at Solitude Ski Resort, you descend over 3,200 ft. This is the race I ran my personal record, or my fastest half marathon!
  • Most people know Draper’s Corner Canyon for its fantastic network of mountain bike trails, but the Corner Canyon Trail half marathon guides you run up and through the trees and across the Bear Canyon Suspension bridge, and that feels (almost) as fun as biking.
  • Also one of the biggest races in the state, the St. George Marathon is a great option for a first marathon because it has a lot of downhill that winds through St. George, Veyo, and Snow Canyon. This was my first marathon course—it’s incredible!
  • In both Provo and Salt Lake, the Runtastic Haunted Half is an unforgettable Halloween-themed race. I’ll always remember running next to snails, Marios and bananas during my first ever half marathon. It’s surprisingly motivating.
  • The Goblin Valley Trail Run near Moab is the most awe-inspiring half marathon I’ve done. Running around hoodoos and buttes is surreal, and the small size of the race makes it even easier to enjoy the views.

There are tons of marathons and half marathons in Utah, both road and trail. For more options, click here.

Buy Gear

There’s good news for gearheads and shopaholics (like me)—new gear! The most important part of running is getting the perfect shoe. Get fitted somewhere like Salt Lake Running Company or Runner’s Corner to find the best shoe for your foot. You also need specialized ware such as socks, tank tops and shorts, water bottles, running vests and nutrition.

Schedule a Training Plan

Most half marathon training plans take 10-14 weeks, and marathon training plans take around 16-20 weeks. This makes April the best time to get started on your training for a summer or fall race. Buy a calendar, fill each week out with your running schedule, and stick to it! In each  week, it’s good to have one long run, one recovery day, and a day or two for cross training. Some good ideas for cross training are lifting, cycling, or swimming (why not train for triathlon while we’re at it, right?).

Training! Photo by Morgan Hart

Find a Support Group

Whether it’s a die-hard training buddy or a supportive spouse, find someone who will tie your shoes on the days that are a little too hard to step outside, someone who will be there with a cold cup of chocolate milk when you first cross the finish line.

Push Yourself, but Have Fun!

Running is hard. You can’t get around that. But that might just be what’s so addicting about it—pushing yourself, running places you’ve never visited before, crossing the finish line right as you feel like you might collapse, just in time to put that medal around your neck and say, “I did it! I did it!” That is an addicting feeling.


2025 Twilight Concert Series Drops

By Music

You’ve probably found yourself starting to dream about summer concerts—green grass at outdoor venues, warm summer air, loud music that can be heard for miles, and a cold drink in your hand as you bump your head to the beat of an incredible live band (or maybe you’re jumping up and down and shouting along with the lead singer, and in that case we hope a friend is holding your drink).

The best way to get ready for this feeling is by buying tickets—and luckily, tickets for the Twilight Concert Series in Salt Lake are going on sale this week! In its 38th year, the Twilight Concert Series has been celebrating musically diverse artists, both new and local and nationally known. It’s important to know they’re making some changes this year. The concerts will be held at two locations, switching off between the Gallivan Center and Library Square. Additionally, they have reduced the amount of tickets they are selling to provide a more comfortable experience for attendees—that means get your tickets asap!

Season tickets are available Wednesday, March 12 at 10:00 a.m. Individual show tickets available Thursday, March 13 at 10:00 a.m. Get your tickets here!

And with that, Salt Lake City Arts Council in partnership with S&S Presents thus presents the 38th Twilight Concert Series lineup:

  • July 12 (Gallivan Center): EARTHGANG, JMSN, Bad Luck Brigade
  • July 17 (Library Square): Sierra Ferrell, TBD, Sammy Brue
  • Aug 6 (Gallivan Center): Waxahatchee, Foxwarren, Wilbere
  • Aug 12 (Library Square): Mt. Joy, The Moss
  • Sep 5 (Gallivan Center): Japanese Breakfast, Ginger Root, Tomper
  • Sep 22 (Library Square): Big Thief, Special guests to be announced

The Gallivan Center concerts open doors at 6 p.m. The Library Square concerts open doors at 5 p.m.

Bonus: All Twilight Concert Series ticket holders get free access to UTA transportation all day on the day of the event! Simply show your concert tickets when asked for payment.

Double Bonus: To get in the summer concert vibe, check out the official Twilight Concert Series playlist on Spotify that features all the artists’ work.


Feast Like a Leprechaun: St. Patrick’s Day Eats in Utah

By Eat & Drink

It’s not romantic, it’s not reverent, and it’s not jolly, but St. Patrick’s Day in Utah sure is festive. The holiday being on a Monday leaves us with an entire weekend to celebrate. It’s time to get your green on and pick an event (or a few) to celebrate the Irish holiday!

The Westerner invites you for some classic tricks at their Shamrocks & Shenanigans St. Patrick’s Pre-Game Party this Friday, March 14. (Sham)Rock like the Irish with their featured cocktails, free line dancing lessons 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., and live music with Colt.46. Enter their raffle for a chance to win tickets to Kelsea Ballerini at the Delta Center!

Visit: 3360 S Redwood Rd, West Valley City

Bewilder Brewing is reprising their St. Paddy’s revelry with food and beverage specials, Irish whiskey and of course, bagpipes. The brewer will be pouring four brand new beers for the occasion, including an Irish Stout, Irish Lager, and everyone’s favorite, Leprechaun Tears. Visit March 15 through March 17.

Visit: 445 S. 400 W., Salt Lake City

Copper Canyon Grillhouse & Tavern is highlighting a dedicated St. Patrick’s Day menu hosting all three meals of the day. Stop by for breakfast to try a corned beef hash, or for lunch and dinner to nosh on some corned beef and cabbage, a hearty lamb stew or traditional Irish soda bread. The menu is available March 15-17.

Visit: 215 S Temple, Salt Lake City (Inside Radisson Hotel)

STK Steakhouse wants you to get lucky by ordering their lil’ corned beef sliders and washing it down with a Leprechaun Stiletto during happy hour. Stay lucky with these special items as early as March 14 and as late as March 21! Additionally, STK is featuring a Bounty of the Seven Seas showcasing the best of seafood from March 5 to April 17.

Visit: 111 S 300 W #101, Salt Lake City

Kona Grill let the leprechauns in…and they dyed their beer, sake, and seltzers green! They are also featuring corned beef sliders and chips available for lunch, dinner, takeout and delivery (if you need a late-night snack for later). These special items are available as early as March 14 and as late as March 21. Kona Grill is also featuring a Bounty of the Seven Seas menu at the same time STK is.

Visit: 13253 S Teal Rdg Wy Suite J-190, Riverton

Flanagans on Main in Park City is known for their Leprechaun day debauchery, and for good reason. Their ultimate St. Patrick’s Day celebration will feature six live musicians starting at 1 p.m. and ending at 1 a.m on March 17. Stop by for authentic Irish nosh, good drink and fun.

Visit: 438 Main St, Park City

Flanker Kitchen + Sporting Club is having a St. Paddy’s Day Weekend festival. On Saturday, March 15, enjoy live music by Shanahy at either their Irish Brunch from noon to 2:00 p.m. or at their Festival After Party from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with hearty Irish menu options. You can book their karaoke room, golf suite, or sporting club to get the most out of your St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

Visit: 6 N Rio Grande St Suite 35, Salt Lake City

RoHa Brewing Project is hosting a St. Patrick’s Day market on March 15 from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Support local vendors by shopping from handmade jewelry, pottery, art and more! Enjoy live music from BoomDrops and food from Tacos Daddy food truck.

Visit: 30 E Kensington Avenue, Salt Lake City

Piper Down Olde World Pub, a traditional Irish pub, is offering a celebratory taste of Ireland with cocktails and live music (think bagpipes and Celtic punk) this St. Patrick’s Day weekend. Their celebrations are featured from March 14 to 17 (music starts at 8:30 p.m. each night), but this pub is always open and serving traditional Irish eats year-round!

Visit: 1492 South State Street, Salt Lake City

The Green Pig Pub has quite the lineup for St. Patrick’s weekend, starting March 14 at 9:00 p.m. and going all the way to March 17 at midnight. Visit for live music from Red Shot Pony and many several others all weekend, with an adult trivia night on March 16.

Visit: 31 East 400 South, Salt Lake City

Feldman’s Deli, a New York-style delicatessen in SLC, is bringing back their famed Corned Beef & Cabbage specials for two days this year. Grab your Irish fixins on March 14 and 15, and stay for live music at 6 p.m.

Visit: 2005 East 2700 South, Salt Lake City

Last Call Sports Bar in Springville wants you to join them for their Saturday Shenanigans St. Patrick’s Day Party with green beers, karaoke, bingo and a Texas Holdem tournament. The night will be filled with music from DJ J.Ping and DJ Hijacks, and on March 17, DJ Drewbacca will visit for the holiday!

Visit: 135 N 2000 W, Springville

Leprechaun Inn celebrates the Irish all year long, but they go all out come St. Patrick’s day. On March 17 the bar is hosting a festive St. Paddy’s party featuring traditional Irish food, bag pipes, giveaways and more.

Visit: 4700 S. 900 E., Suite 6, Murray

47th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Siamsa

The Hibernian Society of Utah wants you to flood the streets and join the crowds for the 47th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Siamsa in Salt Lake City! Engage in true Celtic culture through good food, the parade and storytelling of Irish mythology and history. The parade starts at 11:00 a.m. and the Siamsa, or folk entertainment, goes from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. all at the Gateway.

Visit: 18 N Rio Grande St, Salt Lake City


Your Week Ahead: Foodie Edition March 3—March 9

By Eat & Drink

March is a rough month in Utah—Will it rain? Will it snow? Will it be sunny? Though the weather is unpredictable, places to get a good meal never are. Check out these food-related events going on in Utah this week to make March a memorable month. And as a bonus, we’ve included more restaurants serving up hot, hearty meals to get you through mud season.

Monday 03/03

What: Game Night at Scion Cider
Where: Scion Cider, Salt Lake City
When: 03/03, 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
Grab a French Dip sando from C9, or a Katsu special from Bar Nohm (now offering select takeout options on Mondays), and belly up at Scion Cider. The cider bar hosts Rock N’ Bingo every Monday at 7, and follows with Tipsy Bingo at 8 p.m. Show up at Scion Cider at 7:00 p.m. for a chance to win at Rock’N Bingo, or come try your luck at 8:00 p.m. Check out their website for their other events (Lego night, popcorn and movie night) throughout the week.

What: Latte Flight at Guayoyo Café
Where: Pleasant Grove
This Latin coffee shop in Pleasant Grove serves two caffeine-filled flights of lattes and ice drinks. Featuring flavors such as tres leches, dulce de leche and matcha, Guayoyo’s drinks are unique compared to other cafes. Hungry? Add on a fresh empanada or sandwich.

What: Japanese Dessert at Doki Doki
Where: Salt Lake City and Orem
Fat cream puffs, thickly-layered crepe cakes, delicate panna cotta cups, fluffy Japanese pancakes dripping in syrupy sauce—how can you possibly go another day without trying one of these? Not only do they have Japanese desserts, but they also sell bubble teas, hot chocolate and coffee. That’s a well-rounded dessert place!

What: To-Go Salad Bowls at Tossd
Where: Provo, Vineyard, and Pleasant Grove
Salads are not always considered a “hearty” meal, but at Tossd you’re guaranteed to be full after one of their bowls. Stop by on a lunch break to pick up an easy to-go nourishing salad or rice bowl with lots of meat, veggies, and delicious dressings.

Tuesday 03/04

What: Food Truck Tuesdays & Thursdays
Where: Gallivan Center, Salt Lake City
When: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Get your food truck fix by attending the food truck roundup in the parking lot of the Gallivan Center, hosted every Tuesday. Trucks rotate every week, so you’re guaranteed to have something new to try each time you go. This Tuesday’s linuep includes Da Ramalli Pizzeria, La Lupe, Shifuku, Vostok Burger, Hot Dog on a Stick and more.

What: Don Joaquin Taco Tuesdays
Where: Don Joaquin (Salt Lake City, American Fork, Saratoga Springs, Lindon, Provo, Springville)
When: Tuesdays, all day
Not much is better than $1.45 tacos, especially when they’re from Don Joaquin (my dad, a mexican food lover, claims these are his favorite street tacos). With locations all over central Utah, you can indulge in Taco Tuesday anywhere you are.

Wednesday 03/05

What: Omakase Nights
Where: Post Office Place, Salt Lake City
When: Wednesdays in March, 5:30 p.m. & 8:00 p.m. 
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, you’ll not want to miss this omakase event with collaboration from chefs with Post Office Place and Takashi. Omakase translates from Japanese to “I leave it up to you.” At this event, you’ll leave it up to the chefs to decide what your night will taste like! Reserve your spot online, there are still a few seatings left in March.

Thursday 03/06

What: Trivia Night at Brick’s Corner
Where: Brick’s Corner, Salt Lake City
When: Thursdays, 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Game Night Live hosts a free trivia night at Brick’s Corner. Bring the family and compete to see who knows the most random trivia, and enjoy some Detroit style pizza while you’re at it!

Friday 03/07

What: Princess Tea at the Grand
Where: The Grand America Hotel
When: 03/07-09, 12:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Dine like a princess with a princess at the Grand America Hotel’s Princess Tea. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in the month of March bring your little one to enjoy a magical afternoon tea while visiting with princesses such as Jasmine, Elsa, Sofia, and Moana. Don’t forget to make a reservation!

Saturday 03/08

What: 3rd Annual International Women’s Day Market
Where: Salt Lake City Council
When: 03/08, 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Experience flavors from all over the world at this Women’s Day Flavors in Motion & Spring Market event. From cuisine to culture to commerce, women from all international backgrounds come together to share their expertise. Booths will feature an iconic cuisine and a unique women’s tradition.

Sunday 03/09

What: Sunday Pho at The Pearl
Where: The Pearl, Salt Lake City
When: Sundays, 6:00 p.m. until sold out
If you’re a pho lover, make sure to get your order in at The Pearl before it’s sold out for the night. Made with six hour chicken bone broth and your choice of various meats (or a vegan option), this pho is sure to satisfy any craving for warm noodle soup.

And last but not least, if you’re looking to treat yourself and a spouse or a group of friends to top dining in Utah, take a look at our Dining Awards winners this year. We’ve cultivated a list of the best restaurants from St. George to Ogden, with plenty of options in Salt Lake City.


Hell’s Backbone Acquires Boulder Mountain Lodge

By Eat & Drink

Your plans to visit Southern Utah this year just became deliciously more exciting. On February 11, 2025, the renowned Hell’s Backbone Grill & Farm in Boulder, Utah announced their acquisition of the gorgeous Boulder Mountain Lodge property, adjacent to the famed dining destination. Both of these endeavors have existed in harmony under separate ownership for many years but after years of discussions can combine the lodging property with the ambitious food and sustainable living that Hell’s Backbone exemplifies. The recent purchase was completed through a unique community-funded initiative.

 “This fulfillment of our dream represents so more than just the buying of a physical property,—it’s been our beloved home for so long, and being able to actually own it now is really a testament to the power of love, community support, and the commitment of our team to a kind of higher-consciousness way of doing business,” says Blake Spalding, co-founder of Hell’s Backbone Grill & Farm.

Photo by M McIntyre

The property’s team consists of long-time chef-owners Spalding and Jen Castle, along with key team members Nina Brownell, Morgan Reedy, and Nick Barretta—all year-round Boulder residents. This acquisition was made possible through the contributions of these three dedicated “Hellion Investors” along with a group of long-term guests and friends of the restaurant. Their own “Hell’s Angels” made low-interest loans and gifts, so the team could avoid traditional banking institutions and conventional financing.

Hell’s Backbone puts an effort and care you don’t see often into its locally sourced food. They grow much of their produce on their six-acre organic farm and source food from heirloom orchards and local ranches. No other restaurant is more Southern Utah-flavored than Hell’s Backbone so to combine it with a beautiful lodge surrounded by three Utah national parks and decorated with iconic Utah flora and fauna is the perfect match for an authentic get-away experience.

HBG guests will see many exciting improvements in the weeks and months ahead, including the introduction of “Little Bone,” a new food truck operation on the lodge grounds, run by returning team member Lacy Allen. Little Bone will serve daily many of the beloved breakfast items from pre-pandemic times, and also dinner service on the restaurant’s off nights, featuring beloved menu items and new offerings. “Our guests have tearfully rhapsodized about our breakfasts, and we’re overjoyed to have found the right person and circumstances to make it work and bring back the magic,” says co-founder and executive chef Jen Castle. 

Hell’s Backbone has found its place on the Boulder Mountain Lodge property for 25 years. For both owners and customers, it is an exciting movement to combine forces to make an even more authentically local experience through food and hospitality. The lodge already offers an outdoor hot tub, ten acres of a bird-watching sanctuary, lawn games, a gifts shop, and a fireplace, but this new partnership will add heated patio seating, a new food truck service, and an opportunity for event booking such as retreats or weddings. Spalding and Castle are excited to kick off their 26th season on March 14, 2025. 

Hell’s Backbone Grill & Farm has been the recipient of many of Salt Lake magazine’s highest dining honors since its founding. There has not been a year that this restaurant has not earned a nod from Salt Lake magazine. Our late editor Mary Brown Malouf long championed this experiment in sustainability, kindness and destination dining in Southern Utah. Mary lobbied tirelessly for the James Beard Foundation to create a new region for its annual national restaurant awards to bust out Utah (also Colorado, Idaho, Montana and Wyoming) restaurants from under the shadows of California and Phoenix.

Hell’s Backbone Grill & Farm was selected as a James Beard Awards semifinalist in 2017, 2018, and 2019, and advanced to nominee in 2020, the year the awards were canceled due to the pandemic. Spalding and Castle were honored most recently by the restaurant’s inclusion as semi-finalists for Outstanding Restaurant (one of twenty restaurants each year in the national category) for both 2022 and 2023.

HBG Entrance. Photo by Morgan Reedy.

In addition to nods from us, HBG has been featured in many national publications, including the New York Times, O Magazine, and Bon Appetit. HBG was also the subject of a 2018 New Yorker feature highlighting its efforts to save the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument from being downsized. 

The destination restaurant proudly enjoys the highest Zagat ratings in Utah and follows Buddhist principles, with a commitment to sustainability, food and social justice, and community and planetary responsibility. Co-owners Jen Castle and Blake Spalding have also created a retail line of food and two acclaimed and beloved cookbooks, With a Measure of Grace, the Stories and Recipes of a Small Town Restaurant, and This Immeasurable Place, Food and Farming from the Edge of Wilderness. Hell’s Backbone Grill & Farm was also one of four restaurants chosen to represent Utah’s Slow Food movement in an exhibit in the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, D.C.


Valentine’s Day in Utah

What To Do With Your Boo: Valentine’s Day Eats and Activities

By Eat & Drink

Valentine’s  Day is coming up, and the pressure is on to find the perfect date night for you and your partner. Thankfully, Utah has no shortage of food and fun suited to all different tastes. Whether you’re looking for an intimate, three-course dinner, a night of dancing, or anything in between, the beehive state has you covered.

WHERE TO EAT ON VALENTINE’S DAY 

Alpine Distilling Social Aid & Pleasure Club 

Try your hand at spirit infusion at Alpine Distilling in Park City. The expert distillers will offer advice and encouragement to couples trying out new flavor combinations. Stop by their Social Aid & Pleasure Club after for a special cocktail menu, and the barrel release of Alpine’s Triple Oak Whiskey. 
364 Main Street (lower level) Park City, UT 84060

Bambara and The Vault

The eclectic Hotel Monaco downtown hosts two delightful dining experiences inside, Bambara and The Vault, both offering special Valentine’s items this year. For $75 per person, Bambara’s four-course menu features items like mushroom tortellini, hamachi crudo and Utah prime beef tenderloin. At The Vault, couples can enjoy a dozen oysters and a bottle of bubbles for $80, the perfect pre-dinner treat. Reservations available on their website
202 South Main St., Salt Lake City, UT 84101

The Chocolate: A Dessert Cafe

Surprise your sweetie with something sweet this Valentine’s Day with desserts from The Chocolate. Pick from a variety of baked goods including heart-shaped cakes, chocolate raspberry mini cupcakes, chocolate cheesecake bars, cookies, and even a Valentine’s Day-themed cookie decorating kit. Orders for Valentine’s Day sweets must be in by Feb. 10.
9120 S Redwood Rd, West Jordan, UT 84088
212 State St, Orem, UT 84058

Copper Canyon Grill House & Tavern 

Enjoy a romantic evening in the heart of downtown at Copper Canyon. Located inside the Radisson Hotel, the restaurant is offering a special three-course dinner for one-night only. Menu highlights include New York strip, lobster mac and cheese, grilled branzino and pappardelle ala lentil ragu. $69 per person, reservations available here
215 W South Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101

Franck’s

Franck’s is offering a prix fixe, 7-course meal plus dessert from Feb. 13 through Feb. 18, featuring items such as spruce tip and togarashi crusted prime strip, duck tataki and chilled shellfish tart. Prices are set at $155 per person.
6264 S. Holladay Blvd., Holladay, 801-274-6264

Fleming’s Steakhouse and Wine Bar

From Feb. 13–17, Fleming’s is offering a special surf-and-turf Valentine’s Day menu. Feast on a shareable 16oz chateaubriand and 12 oz North Atlantic lobster tail, pair it with truffle mashed potatoes and finish with a dark chocolate cherry tart. $220 for two, available in a single serving for $106 per guest. 
20 S. 400 West, #2020, SLC, 801-355-3704

Hearth on 25th

Located on Ogden’s Historic 25th Street, Hearth on 25th is offering a special 10 course Valentine’s Day dinner this year. Available Friday and Saturday, dinner highlights include shiso tart, duck consome and elk loin. $80, optional drink pairing for $50.  Book a reservation on their website hearth25.com. 
195 25th St STE 6, Ogden, UT 84401

Hyatt Centric Park City 

Enjoy a prix-fixe Valentine’s day dinner with your S.O. at the Hyatt Centric. Menu highlights include lobster ravioli, seared sea scallop, French onion tart and more. $79 per person. Call 435-940-1235 for reservations. 
3551 North Escala Court, Park City, UT 84098

Laurel Brasserie & Bar

Treat you and your boo to an elegant staycation at the Grand America Hotel. Now offering Valentine’s day stay and dine packages, couples can book a one-night stay with either dinner or brunch featuring a special prix fixe menu. Reservations available on their website.
555 S, Main St., SLC

Log Haven

Lovebirds rejoice! Log Haven is hosting their annual Three Nights of Passion from Feb. 14 through the 16. The loved-up weekend will feature live music, specialty cocktails, mocktails and a special menu. Valentine’s day is already booked, but there are still openings on Saturday and Sunday. Call 801-272-8255 to book. 
6451 Mill Creek Canyon Rd., SLC, 801-272-8255

Montage Deer Valley 

Steak or sushi—take your pick and visit the stunning Montage hotel in Deer Valley whose Apex Steakhouse and Yama Sushi are both serving delectable Valentine’s Day offerings. 
9100 Marsac Avenue, Park City, UT 84060

Magleby’s in Springville and Siempre 

Magleby’s is hosting two Valentine’s Day buffets this year at their locations in Springville and Draper. Highlights include prime rib and a decadent seafood arrangement.  
Siempre—1283 E. Mike Weir Drive Draper, UT 84020
Springville—198 S Main St. Springville, UT 84663

Mar | Mutanya

The Spanish-style restaurant in the downtown Hyatt Regency Hotel has an outdoor dining experience just in time for Valentine’s Day. Private snow globes on the restaurant’s patio can accommodate up to eight people and offer stunning views of Salt Lake’s cityscape, as well as keep guests warm in the Utah winter.
170 S W Temple St, SLC, 385-433-6700

Pago Group

The Pago Group is offering several Valentine’s Day options in Salt Lake.

Pago on 9th & 9th 

Pago’s 16th annual Valentine’s Day Tasting menu will be available for one day only, with highlights like broiled snow crab, Idaho morels, bison NY Strip steak and old fashioned chocolate cake. Optional wine pairings available. $120 per person. Book a table inside or on their outdoor heated patio here
878 S. 900 East, SLC, 801-532-0777

Finca, a Spanish restaurant specializing in tapas, is offering a special Valentine’s Day menu on February 14th only. The coursed meal begins with a choice of plato de queso or olivos, followed a choice of tapas like patatas bravas and ensalada de naranja. Main courses include braised lamb shank and crispy halibut. $85 for food, $40 for wine. 
1513 S. 1500 East, SLC, 801-532-3372

Pendry Park City 

Inside the Pendry, Japanese steakhouse and sushi restaurant KITA is offering an exclusive four-course prix-fixe menu. Double down on the loved-up experience by indulging in a relaxing couple’s massage at Spa Pendry, or some pre dinner cocktails and live music at Apres Pendry. $250 per couple, reservations available here.
2417 W High Mountain Rd, Park City, UT 84098 

Rouser 

Inside Salt Lake’s sexiest new hotel, the Asher Adams, lovers can spend a loved-up evening enjoying a special Valentine’s Dinner. The hotel’s contemporary restaurant Rouser has created a menu with many stars, like the King Crab Caesar, wild mushroom agnolotti and Chilean Sea Bass. Menu available Feb. 14-16th, $180 per couple. 
2 S 400 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101

Spencer’s Steaks & Chops

Spencer’s offers romance and delicious meals year-round—their newest speakeasy spaced called Rare Room is an ideal setting to spice up date night. The restaurant offers special Valentine’s day cocktails through the end of February, pair one with the millionaire’s bacon and braised ossubucco.  
255 S. West Temple, SLC, 801-238-4748

STK Steahouse

Downtown Salt Lake’s STK is offering a special Valentine’s Day menu from Feb. 10—16. Highlights include 6 oz. wagyu filet, imperial kaluga caviar, chocolate lava marshmallow cake and more. Reservations available here.
111 S 300 W #101, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 

Urban Hill

Urban Hill, an ever-popular dining destination and recent James Beard semi-finalist, is hosting a Valentine’s Day dinner. The Granary District restaurant is offering a four-course tasting menu for $95 per guest and an optional wine pairing for an additional $45 per guest. 
510 S 300 W #100, Salt Lake City, UT 84101

VALENTINE’S DAY ACTIVITIES

What: Love Sucks Burlesque Brunch 
Where: Undercurrent Bar
When: Feb. 16 at 11 a.m. to 4 p.m .
Calling all the singles, Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be a downer! Undercurrent is hosting an exciting brunch with three courses and live burlesque performances. Tickets available here

What: Galentines Night Out
Where: Kiln at the Gateway
When: Feb. 13 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 
Grab your gals and head to the Gateway for an evening of mingling and fun. Featuring mocktails, temporary tattoos, a photobooth, charm bar, craft station and vintage shopping, this event is the ultimate girls night out! 

What: Valentines Tea
Where: The Grand America
When: Feb. 1—Feb. 17 
Toast with your S.O. at The Grand America’s annual love-day high tea. Hosted throughout the month of February, the quintessential high tea features house-made pastries, savory tea sandwiches, heart-shaped treats and more. Seatings from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Adults $50, kids 12 and under $35. 

What: Lots to Love at Gardner Village
Where: Gardner Village
When: Feb. 1—Feb. 28 
Celebrate your loved ones all-February-long at Gardner Village. The West Jordan shopping center is hosting paint nights, horse-drawn carriage rides, escape room adventures, five-course meals and relaxing massages on various dates. Visit their website for the complete schedule. 

What: Cellar Club Valentine’s 
Where: Tracy Aviary, inside the Chase Mill. 
When: Feb. 13 at 6 p.m. 
Hosted by Wine Academy of Utah’s Jim Santangelo and Eat Drink SLC, this month’s Wine Takes Flight series features a multi-course dinner by Chef Heather Joy, live music and three beverages. 

What: Valentine’s Swing Dance Class
Where: DF Dance Studio
When: Feb. 14 at 8 p.m.
This year, skip the roses and chocolates and instead treat your partner to a new experience. Fun and romantic, DF Dance Studios is hosting a “Boost & Heart Swing” class for couple, no experience necessary. 

What: Hearts Ablaze
Where: Millcreek Common
When: Feb. 14 at 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. 
Curate your perfect Valentine’s day with a variety of activities hosted at Millcreek Common. From pizza making class to ice skating and wood burning art, there’s a little something for everyone. The venue will also be hosting a free live performance from Hot House West at 9 p.m., and will have a selection of food vendors on-site. Learn more here.

What: Cupid’s Cabaret
Where: The Pearl on Main
When: Feb. 14 at 8 p.m. 
Prepare to be dazzled at this seated variety show featuring burlesque, drag, aerial and musical performers. Performances by Ms. Meredith and Jenna Tea, Jax Creative, London Skies, Lilia Maughn, Violet Ends and more. Tickets available here

What: Cupid’s Clue Quest: A Valentine Adventure for Singles
Where: Residence Inn Salt Lake City Downtown
When: Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. 
Hosted by Cupids Clue Quest, this unique event begins with filling out a compatibility questionnaire by Feb. 7th. After receiving a special delivery by mail containing the first clue, guests will gather at the hotel for an hour of mingling, live music, food and more. By 8 p.m. the games will begin with a puzzle, games and a mysterious scavenger hunt. More information here

What: Sips Under the Sea 2024: Kisses and Fishes
Where: Loveland Living Planet Aquarium
When: Feb 14 from 7 p.m to 10 p.m.
Enjoy an elevated aquarium experience with a semi-formal evening of small bites, signature cocktails, live music and romance-themed education stations. 21+ only, tickets available on their website


If you and your boo are total foodies, consider visiting one of the restaurants recently named a James Beard semifinalist, find them all here.