Utah is no stranger to Izakaya joints in 2026, but it wasn’t always so. Guiding Salt Lake’s timid introduction to this epicurean newcomer was Chef David Chon, who opened the original Nohm in 2020 as a quiet, ambient space serving Japanese small plates. It was a concept lost on Covid-struck locals, apart from the late and great Mary Malouf, who marveled, “This place is a treasure, one I hope will be discovered in time for it to flourish.” How did you always know Mary? After a short stumble forcing Nohm to close its doors, Chef Chon joined up with the Water Witch boys and introduced Bar Nohm 2.0 a few years later. It’s safe to say that Salt Lake diners have finally claimed this culinary treasure, wolfing down skewers cooked over a Binchotan grill and broadening our horizons with inventive cocktails. barnohm.com
Side Dish
The crew at Bar Nohm is always up to something new, with programming that has included guest bartender pop-ups, block parties and exclusive themed menus.
This year’s 2026 Dining Awards is a showcase of the best experiences across Utah’s foodscape, and a reminder that each recommendation is a promise. A human-to-human promise. An assurance that a restaurant we say is amazing, is amazing. As you consider your next celebratory meal or casual weeknight outing, here’s your menu of Salt Lake’s 2026 gustatory darlings. The food is thoughtful, the hospitality is warm and the chefs care deeply about the dishes on your table.We promise.
