Desert Delights: Discovering the Laid-Back Charm of Balcony One

Balcony One in Virgin, Utah. Photo by Greg Brinkman

Out in Virgin, Utah, Balcony One catches your eye with its bright pink adobe exterior that looks like it was plucked straight from Santa Fe. This isn’t just a place to grab a meal—it’s where locals and travelers come to unwind, enjoy a little live music, and dig into some great food. With a menu that leans Mediterranean-American, Balcony One offers a relaxed spot to kick back, enjoy good company, and soak in the desert views.
Balcony One’s menu has a solid lineup of Mediterranean-inspired dishes that show off fresh, local ingredients. One of my favorites was the bone-in bacon starter—a thick, glazed cut of pork belly with a sweet, caramelized crust. The glaze gives a nice sticky crunch while the inside is rich and tender. The jicama slaw served on the side is light and refreshing, balancing the dish with a bit of freshness and tang. Another good starter is the arugula salad. It’s simple and fresh, with a peppery kick from the greens and a tangy lemon vinaigrette, topped with shaved Parmesan.

Pork Chop at Balcony One. Photo by Greg Brinkman

For the main course, I tried the pork chop, which was downright impressive. The chop itself is thick and juicy with a perfectly seared crust. It comes with roasted Brussels sprouts and a flash-fried baked potato, which gives the potato a crispy skin and a soft, fluffy interior. This isn’t just a pork chop—it’s one of those meals you’ll be thinking about long after you’ve left. Seriously, I will make this a regular stop when traveling to Zion any time in the future.
The vibe at Balcony One is relaxed and friendly, with a full bar and frequent live music. Whether you’re in the mood for a local craft beer, a glass of wine, or a cocktail, the bar has plenty of options. The music on the back patio ranges from acoustic sets to local bands and adds a nice backdrop without overwhelming the experience. It’s the kind of place where you can make a night of it—come for the food, stay for the atmosphere.
The building itself has a Southwest look that fits right in with the red rock landscape around Virgin. Inside, the decor is simple and inviting, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light and frame the desert views. And if you prefer dining outdoors, the patio seating is just right for enjoying a meal with a view of the rugged scenery. The setup feels authentic to the area and manages to be both laid-back and a little bit special.

Arugula Salad at Balcony One. Photo by Greg Brinkman.

One thing you’ll notice here is the attentive and friendly service. The staff knows the menu well and seems genuinely happy to make suggestions or answer questions. They’re there when you need them but never hover, making it easy to settle in and enjoy the food and the moment. As a former frequent business traveler, I ate at the bar more often than not, and the bar service here is just as attentive as anywhere else in the place. I instantly felt like a local the minute I sat down.
Balcony One is more than a meal—it’s a place where the vibe of Virgin, Utah, comes to life. From the pink adobe exterior to the live music and friendly atmosphere, every part of the experience feels welcoming and a bit unexpected. With its Mediterranean-inspired menu, fresh flavors, and laid-back charm, Balcony One is the kind of place that makes you want to linger, enjoying every bite and every moment. Whether you’re stopping by for the bone-in bacon, digging into that pork chop, or just soaking in the scenery with a cocktail in hand, Balcony One is a spot worth traveling for.