For our September/October issue, we sought to capture the essence of third space camaraderie that resonates with so many of our readers. So, here are our 27 favorite watering holes in Utah stirring up more than something special in a glass. Comprising nationally-recognized cocktail bars that tease our curiosity and no-frills dives that answer the call for human companionship with a stiff pour and schooled benevolence — these are the places we feel represent the current state of nightlife in Salt Lake. Along the way we chatted with four star-tenders that are bringing something special to their establishment, ask asked them to present a seasonal cocktail our readers can sip and enjoy throughout September and October.
Photography by Jazmine Worthen @tasty.shots.slc
Star-Tender Arianna Hone, High West
Arianna Hone offers up a taste of Thailand up at High West. “This drink is a marriage between mango sticky rice and a daiquiri. Tasting notes: nutty, juicy, and smooth.”
Tell us about the drink, does it have a name?
“The drink is called Big Mountain Music Festival, inspired by the music festival held in
Thailand every year. Our summer menu is inspired by music festivals around the globe.”
What’s your favorite thing about tending bar?
“My favorite thing about tending bar is the community and third space aspect of bars. Bars
are a great place to make friends, celebrate life’s wins, and mourn life’s losses. Working in
Park City I am especially exposed to people from all over the world. I love meeting people
from different places, talking to them about bars in their areas and sharing with them why I
love Utah.”
What’s the weirdest drink request you’ve ever received?
“People will commonly describe the color of a drink and where they’ve had it but give no
other information and expect me to be able to recreate it, that’s always a strange
experience. Otherwise, nothing too weird!”
What’s your least favorite drink to make?
“My least favorite drink to make is a drink for someone who is not nice to service staff. I
don’t mind any other cocktail, even though High West Saloon is a high volume bar and crazy
if you’re a nice person I am happy to make you anything. Even a ramos ;)”
What’s something you get asked by customers way too often?
“Everyday multiple times a day I get asked in depth questions about the BERG system. Most of
our clientele is tourists and a lot of times this is their first stop in Utah, and they are ALWAYS
amused by the BERG system. The next most common question as of recently is about the SLC
housewives and the Mormon wives. People really believe Utah is a vacuum!”
Visit Arianna at High West Saloon in Park City, order the “Big Mountain Music Festival”, and then share and tag us @slmag
High West Saloon
703 Park Ave., Park City
highwest.com
Find all 27 of our favorite bars in Salt Lake, and enjoy more Food and Drink coverage. While you’re here, subscribe to Salt Lake magazine to receive six beautiful print issues a year!
