Viva Chicken in St George Utah turns our hundreds of Peruvian-style rotisserie chickens per day, in a win for family-friendly meals.
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This summer, exclusive chef-led dinners across Utah are giving adventurous diners a front-row seat to the creativity unfolding in local kitchens. From rooftop suppers in the mountains to omakase artistry and BYOB wine-paired feasts, these events are more than meals—they’re culinary experiences.
Pendry Summer Supper Series
On select Thursdays through September 4, Pendry Park City hosts an intimate farm-to-table meal created by a rotating roster of chefs. Served on their rooftop patio dubbed The Pool House, each dish showcases honey, apple, snap peas, plums and more sourced directly from the Park City Farmers Market. I recently attended a supper in early July and was thrilled by the flavors, presentation and attentive staff. Kita’s head Chef was our culinary guide that evening, and definitely showcased his restaurant’s Japanese proclivities with dishes like local bread with yuzu honey butter, tuna tartare with caramel ginger emulsion and, of course, unexpected sake pairings. Plan for a three-hour dining experience—perfect for a sunset pic between courses. Tickets are $175 per person, additional costs for wine pairings. This is a 21+ dining experience, reservations available on Open Table.
2417 W. High Mountain Rd, Park City
Rouser Chef’s Table
Inside the stunning Asher Adams hotel in downtown Salt Lake City, Rouser offers a taste of Americana excellence—with a twist. The charcoal-fired open kitchen is a high-spirited dining experience showcasing not just how the food tastes, but how it is prepared. Now, Chef de Cuisine Emilio Camara is taking that immersion to the next level. Every Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m., Chef Camara hosts an intimate six course meal that reflects his own heritage and culinary journey, with plenty of live-fire displays, naturally. Seats are extremely limited to six to eight diners per evening, $100 per person and $62 for an additional wine pairing. Find the entire menu, here.
2 400 W, Salt Lake City
Deer Valley Taste of Luxury Series
Wine dinners, multi-course meals and even Michel Chef-led cooking classes—Deer Valley is doing it all this sumer. With several unique events through August 23, the Taste of Luxury series invites guests to indulge in fine flavors in a truly spectacular alpine setting. Closing out the series next month, Italian powerhouse Chef Giancarlo Morelli will host a hands-on pasta making course, VIP meet and greet, and a five-course Italian dinner with wine pairings from the Bon Vivant Imports portfolio. Tickets start at $215 per guest. Learn more about the Michel Star Chef, here.
2250 Deer Valley Drive, Park City
Mountain Wine Storage x Tupelo BYOW Dinner
Utah’s first professional wine storage facility made a splash when they first opened in 2024, and they’ve only gone up from there. This year, the vino enthusiasts have partnered with the industry’s leading wineries and notable local chefs to host a series of elevated wine dinners. Their next iteration will feature five-courses from Tupelo’s Executive Chef Matthew Harris, highlights include Niman Ranch porchetta, cocoa spice venison carpaccio and spaghetti amatriciana. To complement the meal, Tupelo and MWS invite guests to embrace their inner sommelier and bring their own bottles of Italian Super Tuscan to show off and share with their fellow diners. This is a 21+ event starting at $200 per person, reservations available on Resy.
1500 Kearns Blvd, Park City
Omakase at Post Office Place
Omasake translates to “I leave it up to you,” and at Post Office Place, you’re in good hands. Takashi Chef Brice Okubo, Post Office Head Chef Brendan Kawakami and Takashi Gibo himself have curated a fifteen-course culinary journey, with dishes ranging from contemporary Japanese nigiri to experimental global cuisine. I tried their July menu (the lineup changes each month) last week and was absolutely blown away by the creativity and collaborative nature of this experience. Though it’s hard to choose favorites when you have 15 delectable morsels to choose from, standouts included the hand-tied kaizen-men noodles, grilled toro temaki, Brazilian fish stew and the tempura kombu with uni (are you hungry yet?) The communal dinner is available on Wednesday nights, with seatings at 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets for August are already sold out, but keep an eye on their site and socials for the September ticket drop near the end of the month. Note: This is a 21+ event.
16 W Market St., Salt Lake City
Chef Collaboration Series at Urban Hill
Launched in spring, Urban Hill has hosted two special dinners in collaboration with notable chefs around the city. Last week, Chef Manoli Katsanevas and Urban Hill’s Nick Zocco presented a delectable lineup of Greek meets American cuisine. I will admit, these dinners are a bit hard to pin down—check Urban Hill’s site and socials to stay in-the-know. Apart from their collaboration series, the restaurant is also offering a Hungarian wine dinner on August 19 for $190 per person. The six-course meal includes highlights like blue corn langos, pork and duck sausage and stone fruit dumplings all paired with pours from Boutique wine. Reservations available on Resy.
510 S. 300 West, Salt Lake City
Mar | Muntanya Chef’s Garden Table
Once a week, Mar | Muntanya Chef Tyson prepares a multicourse journey of Northern Spain’s coastal flavor. The menu adapts through the season and showcases produce harvested directly from the Chef’s Garden, the SLC Farmers Market, and local greenhouse growers. Diners will gain an insight into each dish directly from the Chef, and maybe even make a few new friends at the communal tables. Tickets are limited to 10 seats per evening at $150 per person, get yours on Tock.
170 S. West Temple, Salt Lake City (Inside the Hyatt)
See more stories like this and all of our Food and Drink coverage. And while you’re here, why not subscribe and get six annual issues of Salt Lake magazine’s curated guide to the best life in Utah?
Photos by Lindsay Salazar | Design by Bond Design Company
Penthouse, meet pasture. What began as her clients’ quest for the perfect Manhattan digs turned into a surprising overhaul in the hills for designer Jennifer Chipman, principal of Bond Design Company. The homeowners in question were dreaming up their perfect downtown NYC design when they happened upon a sprawling ranch property just outside of Park City. And with that, the creative energy took a turn for the unexpected, bringing the saturated hues and polished edge of a chic, city interior to the rustic peaks of Utah.
“This wasn’t your average gut job,” Chipman says. “The home had great bones, a mostly functional layout and views that stop you mid sentence. The house was practically begging to be elevated, not erased.”
To transform the home’s typical mountain design into the big-city statement that the clients had envisioned, the Bond team stripped the house to the studs, rebuilding the interior with sharper lines, bolder colors and more detailed finishes. The designers relied on the existing layout, but reimagined a handful of notable areas to give them the breathing room requisite of a rambling ranch.
One such space was key: the kitchen. One of the most dramatic transformations in the home, the room went from a cramped space with three (yes, three) small islands to a stunning hub of activity. “In a move that bucks tradition, we skipped barstools altogether,” Chipman says. “Instead, we added extra storage on the front side of the island, reflecting our client’s preference for gathering in dedicated dining spaces rather than eating at the counter.”
Stone plays a starring role here and throughout the home. “Our client is a collector of the colorful, the rare and the unapologetically bold—and we were more than happy to lean all the way in.”
In the kitchen, Calacatta Monet marble’s signature purple veining makes a statement that’s both ambitious and cohesive—tying into the plum tones from the great room, entry and primary suite. The book matched marble hood anchors the space, mirroring the drama of the fireplace across the room for a sense of quiet symmetry.
In the entryway, a marble mosaic floor reminiscent of the gilded Art Deco era sets an undeniably glamorous tone. Teamed with a contemporary Holly Hunt wall covering, the foyer elements introduce the balance between timeless elegance and modern edge that defines the ensuing rooms.
Once charmed by the transformed entry, guests immediately emerge into a statement-making great room. The star of the show is a mantel fireplace clad in five meticulously matched slabs of Bianco Lasa Macchia Vecchia stone. Dramatic veins draw the eye to the soaring ceilings and wide windows, grounding the eye on a central focal point.
Above the fireplace, an abstract original artwork by Jordan Daines brings in the deep purples and plums echoed throughout the home’s fabrics and finishes. Fully retractable glass doors open the space to the surrounding landscape, offering a seamless connection to the outdoors (and the occasional cameo from Sadie and Bolt, the resident baby Highland cows). “This is the kind of room that doesn’t just set the tone, it refines it,” says Chipman.
In the bedrooms, the luxe urban vibe continues, carrying the plum palettes and statement stones deeper into the home. The client wanted the primary suite to feel luxurious, yet serene. Bond Design delivered a retreat layered with deep tones and patterns with just enough punch to feel elevated, but not so much as to overwhelm the space.
Calacatta Turquoise marble clads every possible inch of the primary bath, from shower walls to door jambs. “When Mother Nature creates something this beautiful, you let it shine,” Chipman gushes. The showstopping slabs feature sweeping veins of green, turquoise and even the design’s prevailing plum, making it the ultimate statement piece for the home.
“Every other element in the room plays a supporting role—carefully selected to complement, not compete,” says Chipman. “The result is a space that feels both wildly luxurious and deeply grounded, anchored by a material that speaks for itself.”
Stone has a lot to say throughout this design, from mosaic tile accenting pantries and auxiliary bath floors to crystalline Calacatta Namibia backsplash in the family’s game and media room, each installation offering both high style and functionality to its respective space.
In the end, these homeowners couldn’t be happier with their decision to leave the bustling city behind in favor of a glamorous rustic retreat. “This is not your typical Fifth Avenue address—and that’s exactly the point,” Chipman concludes.
This story was originally published by our sister publication, Utah Style & Design magazine. Find all their home decor coverage and get the latest on the decorating and design encompassing Utah. And while you’re here, subscribe and get four issues of Utah Style and Design, your curated guide to the best decor in Utah.
Salt Lake City’s Nick Zocco hit an amazing milestone last week, showing up in force to face off against culinary juggernaut Bobby Flay in his signature Food Network show ‘Beat Bobby Flay.’ It wasn’t just a win, it was Chef Zocco, the Executive Chef of Urban Hill taking down his former boss, as he mentioned in a personal Facebook post announcing the win, “I grew up watching Bobby, and to my surprise, found myself cooking at Bobby’s signature restaurant Mesa Grill for just over 6 years in Las Vegas. It took me higher and more experienced in so many great ways.” Going from sous chef at Mesa Grill, working his way through the Utah culinary scene, up to executive chef at Urban Hill, and even receiving a James Beard nod, this win is one more accolade on a public stage for this talented chef.
To get to the round against Bobby Flay, Chef Zocco first had to compete against the talented Stefanie Torres from Austin, Texas. He came in with a win, making his signature pork albondigas in just 20 minutes of cook time. From there, he had the chance to stand up with the Iron Chef himself, Mr Flay, with a dish he picked: Chile Rellenos.
Nick chose a lump crab filling while Bobby went with chorizo. It was an even match-up considering both have a Southwest cooking style. Ultimately, Chef Zocco came out on top, adding a black bean and New Mexico red chile sauce for the win.
He isn’t the first Utah-based chef to do us proud. Chef Viet Pham of Pretty Bird has won against Bobby Flay a resounding two times.
As a James Beard finalist in 2024, helming one of Salt Lake Magazine’s top restaurants in SLC, and now with a win against Bobby Flay, we can’t wait to see what Chef Zocco cooks up next.
See more stories like this and all of our Food and Drink coverage. And while you’re here, why not subscribe and get six annual issues of Salt Lake magazine’s curated guide to the best life in Utah?
Alison Krauss & Union Station performed at Red Butte Gardens’ Outdoor Concert Series last Friday (July 25, 2025) and, once again, promptly sold the place out. The band’s in the midst of its Arcadia Tour (named after their impressive 2025 album of the same name) and had an incredible neon sign onstage in case anyone forgot. Krauss needed little help playing and singing to the gathered mass, but she brought along Willie Dixon and Jerry Douglas anyway, spreading talent in every which way Friday night.
For her part, every song Krauss sang was an immediate soul salve, an invitation to breathe a little easier, a song preceding a long night of rest. She quipped at one point that the collective had mostly sad music in its repertoire — that their entire goal was to leave the crowd feeling far worse than they did before they arrived — but it hardly dampened spirits. Both songs and band received their appropriate spotlight, and we were better off for it. Whether it was Douglas offering frequently long jams on his Dobro or Krauss easing us through the band’s catalog (“Looks Like The End of the Road,” “The Hangman,” even an O Brother Where Art Thou nod with “Down to the River to Pray”), it was a welcome respite to the week. When bluegrass delves into lullaby territory, it creates a mood you don’t ever quite want to stop. Thank you, Alison. Thank you, players.
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.
These charming small businesses dotting rural Utah have gained unprecedented fame thanks to big followings on social media. To thousands of followers, these niche shops and boutiques are often considered as much of a destination as the sparkling lakes, powdery chutes and red rock monoliths that hover nearby.
Beljar Home
Furnishings and fashion
Following a handsome, well-established couple as they hunt antiques in chocolate-box villages amongst honey-hued cottage shops? Yes, please. Joining said couple online as they choose cabinetry, fixtures and furnishings for new building projects in picturesque Heber Valley? We’re liking and subscribing.
With a storefront in Midway, the owners of Beljar Home take their online followers on sourcing journeys through Provence and the Cotswolds, advise DIY home decorators on layering old and new items, showcase just-arrived merchandise and take us along for a peek into their building projects, throwing words like “moody,” “old-world” and “antiquey” around more often than candy at a parade.
Exterior of Beljar Home. Photo courtesy of Beljar.
Owners Desiree and James Bastian take followers along on their sourcing journeys. hoto courtesy of Beljar.
“You can come into the store and outfit an entire home, custom-order a sofa or find those perfect vintage light fixtures,” says co-owner Desiree Bastian of Beljar Home. “But we love visitors who come to just look around or pick up a little something to take home. Collecting things over time helps people tell their stories: an heirloom pillow, a unique salt and pepper shaker set, a hand-painted bowl, a cozy throw.”
James Bastian, the other half of the quintessential husband-wife duo, agrees. “We love it when our friends stop by. Some live around the corner, some live out of the country and stop in to meet us,” he says. “They pick up a cinnamon roll at Midway Bakery, come into the store, and then…on with their day. We love being part of the itinerary.”
64 W. 100 North, Midway | @beljarhome
- Owners: Desiree & James Bastian
- Make a Day of It: Visit Deer Creek Reservoir, Homestead Crater, Soldier Hollow
- Followers: 83.4k
Emie James
Home decor and gifts
Comprising Eden, Huntsville and Liberty, the 7,500 people who make up Ogden Valley cherish its small-town charm and tight-knit community. Amid sparkling Pineview Reservoir and nestled between the Wasatch and Monte Cristo Mountain Ranges, the valley hosts only a few storefronts and gas stations, a handful of restaurants, a market, a church, an elementary school, a hardware store and a library. The old monastery is gone now.
Peaceful, yes. Quaint, for sure. A little too quiet? Sometimes. Lifelong resident Lisa Pack and her daughter Marne Grange say they wanted to create a fun community hub not just for lifers like themselves, but for new residents and even visitors eager to make new friends.
“There really wasn’t a place to hang out and see your girlfriends, to meet new people, to buy a little gift for a shower, to grab a little treat and say hello,” says Lisa, adding that the valley has deep roots going back generations but it’s sometimes hard to connect—especially for newcomers. “It occurred to us that some people feel like, ‘If I don’t have family from here, I don’t belong.’ We want people to feel connected in this community.”
Teaming up with her daughter, Marne Grange, the two, (who consider themselves “besties”), answered the call, opening a charming little home decor, gift and treat shop in Eden called Emie James.
Marne believes their online presence far outweighs store traffic because, while merchandise is trendy and up-to-the-minute, followers also get a glimpse of small-town life. It’s what compels folks to trek from Kaysville or Kentucky to meet the uber-friendly staff and bring home a whimsical, mounted metal moose sporting spectacles, a trendy kitchen towel or an oversized “Apres Ski” sweatshirt. Some visitors even stick around long enough to sign up for Emie James’ flower arranging, sushi-making or sourdough-baking workshops.
5522 E. 2200 North, Eden | @emie_james
- Owners: mother-daughter duo Lisa Pack and Marne Grange
- Make a Day of It: Splash in Pineview or Causey Reservoir, hike the Brim Trail, mountain bike Ben Lomond or ski at Snow Basin or Powder Mountain.
- Followers: 24.6k
The Creamery
Quick-stop dairy shop and full-service eatery
Many a childhood was spent gnawing on squeaky cheese curds in the back of the family station wagon after an I-15 pit stop at the dairy plant in Beaver, Utah.
“Those cheese curds are what got us here today,” says Matt Robinson, director of The Creamery. Matt also happens to be Beaver City’s mayor.
Still housed right off the freeway directly between Salt Lake and Las Vegas, the storefront experienced an extreme makeover as The Creamery, a stunning dairy dream house drawing in not just I-15 travelers, but–more than ever–those making a special trip.
The Creamery has long been a must-stop for I-15 travelers coming north to Salt Lake City or south to Las Vegas. Photo courtesy of The Creamery.
Formed by a dairy farmer co-op, the store makes it a point to share farming families’ stories via social media and posts every scrumptious dairy iteration sold in the store (think wrapped mango fire cheddar wedges and blueberry shortbread cookie mix). The quick-serve restaurant is a foodstagrammer’s dream: creamy strawberry ice cream, jalapeno mac and cheese, braised short rib grilled cheese sandwiches…you get the picture.
“Our guests come for amazing and unique dairy products and that’s a credit to the farmers, producers and folks in the kitchen,” says Mayor Matt. “Unmistakably, without a doubt, though, what people come to consume most at The Creamery is that small-town connection, that farm-to-table experience. They want to drink milk that comes from the Roberts’ dairy just 12 miles to the west, or those cheese curds made at 4 a.m. this morning.”
165 S. 500 West, Beaver | @thecreameryutah
- Owners: Dairy Farmers of America
- Make a Day of It: Birthplace of the famous outlaw, Butch Cassidy, visitors can check out the new Eagle Point ski and summer resort, hike, fish, snowmobile, or horseback ride through Fishlake National Forest in the Tushar Mountain Range, or check out the famous Crusher in the Tushars bike race.
- Followers: 7.8k
Cosy House
Home and lifestyle shop
OK, OK, St. George is not exactly a small town, but it ain’t big either. And despite big-box stores anchoring strip malls among its red rock vistas, the southern Utah hotspot is not known as a shopping destination. (Just try to pry visitors away from their bikes or golf clubs!)
When Nancy Van Matre moved back to Utah from Southern California, she says she loved hopping on her bike and hitting the trails from her front door. “What’s not to love?” she asks, “Everything was right at my fingertips.”
Cosy House exterior. Photo credit Lacey Alexander.
Cosy House’s showroom. Photo credit Lacey Alexander.
Everything, the former homestore owner adds, except a beautiful place to shop. “I’d ask friends, ‘Where’s a place to buy a lovely little gift or something pretty for my home?’” she says. “The answer was always the same: TJ Maxx or Target.”
Nancy says she was anxious to recreate the quintessential cool home store, gift go-to and “shop around the corner.” Now, her Cosy House hosts a loyal following of local and social media friends who celebrate her effortless, laid-back aesthetic. The store features mounds of books, cozy furniture, ridiculously un-faux-looking faux foliage (because of all the second-home owners in St. George), sleek lamps, precious oil paintings, modern rugs, marble cake stands, delicate soap dishes and yummy smelling candles.
Now Nancy, her neighbors, and her followers who venture a visit really do have it all: their bikes, their golf clubs and their little shop around the corner.
904 W. 1600 South, St. George | @becosyhouse
- Owner: Nancy Van Matre
- Make a Day of It: Enjoy Snow Canyon, Zion National Park or Sand Hollow State Park. Try your mountain biking skills at Bearclaw Poppy or tee off at one of seven public golf courses in the area.
- Followers: 18.2k
Snuck Farms
Modern farm and storefront featuring produce, gifts and a to-go menu
When Page Westover and her husband Brian obtained her Grandpa “Snuck’s” Pleasant Grove property, cradled between Mt. Timpanogos and Mt. Nebo, the land had been reduced to just over three acres, surrounded by the type of residential developments that tip small towns into suburb status. But Pleasant Grove, which touts itself as an agricultural community, resists suburbia. Silicon Slopes may be a stone’s throw away, but rituals like June’s Strawberry Days—with its charming parade and rodeo—push back against encroaching sprawl.
Page dreamt of preserving her family’s land and its heritage. She also longed for a simple, small-town life for her family. By ‘simple’ she didn’t mean easy—but a back-to-the-land existence where the trained nutritionist could enjoy growing fresh food while working side by side with her kids.
“I’m driven to nourish people in that way,” says Page. “We need more spaces like this where people can be connected to their food.” A pipe dream for most, Page set about farming her small plot by utilizing hydroponics: a method of growing greens sans soil, which sprout side-by-side in an extended system of PVC pipes fed by recirculated water.
Snuck Farm’s market is stocked with locally made foods, gifts and more. Photo courtesy of Snuck Farms
The result is fresh greens all year long. Documenting her labors with picturesque images of her modern barn, her maturing leafy lettuces in vivid greens and purples, and massive bundles of cut flowers from the extensive cutting gardens, her followers soak in the wonderment of romantic rural life. To get a closer look, folks can visit the farm store, where pressed juices, bags of fresh greens, cut flowers and products from other local farmers and artisans await purchase. The kitchen to-go items like wraps, salads and granola.
Page says her farm life attracts followers because farming is in our DNA—an intrinsic connection between humans and land. “People comment: ‘You’re living my dream, I wanna do this,” she says with a laugh. “And I think, ‘No you don’t.’ It’s nonstop, 24-seven, 365 days a year. There’s a reason people sell their farms.”
Truthfully, though, Page says she understands the draw—of course she does. “We don’t get access to this anymore, there’s very little greenspace,” she says. “There’s something innate and familiar, we don’t want to let go of this tie we feel with land and food.”
504 W. 1100 North, Pleasant Grove | @snuckfarm
- Owner: Page Westover
- Make a Day of It: Explore Timpanogos Caves, hike to Battle Creek Waterfall, bike, walk or rollerblade along Murdock Canal trail, or hit the Strawberry Days parade and rodeo every June.
- Followers: 16.2k
Bolt Ranch Store
Western lifestyle, clothing, home and gifts
Instead of buzzing through Kamas on your way to Mirror Lake, Jenny and Abby Watts recommend stopping to smell the flowers—or the fresh hay—and then coming by Bolt Ranch Store.
“The calving season in April and May is worth the drive up,” says Jenny. “Just cruise by all the beautiful fields and you’ll see them.”
Abby often answers questions about the famous nearby Oakley Rodeo in July, which Bolt Ranch Store sponsors, but she also reminds customers about Kamas’ Demolition Derby in May, Fiesta Days rodeo in late July, Frontier Days Rodeo over Labor Day weekend in Francis and Peoa’s Ranch Rodeo Shoot in June.
But you’ll need a great pair of boots to fit in—and if you’re in the market for a Stetson, the in-house hat shaper stands at the ready. If you decide to stay in Kamas and buy the whole ranch, Bolt House will stock you with enough horse tack, saddles, bridles and cowhide to last you until you remember you’re actually a city slicker.
“But we don’t just sell cowboy stuff,” says Abby, who owns the store with her mom, likening their partnership to a constant girls trip—shopping included. “We have all kinds of stuff, like Free People, Mother Denim, Goorin Bros. Hats, turquoise jewelry, local artwork and gifts. We’re like a mini department store.”
Yes, shoutouts and tags from Food Nanny and Ballerina Farm have helped put Bolt Ranch Store on the social media map, but it’s their gorgeous ranching photos mixed in with modeled merch that keeps followers coming back for more.
“At our ranch, we run 150 cow-calf pairs, (300 total), and we own eight Highland cows, four donkeys (which we plan to breed), ten horses, three Kunekune pigs, two barn cats and Walter, our Bernese Mt. Dog,” says Jenny. “You’ll meet Walter if you come in, he’s the official shop dog.”
95 S. Main St., Kamas | @boltranchstore
- Owners: Mother-daughter duo Jenny and Abby Watts
- Make a Day of It: Drive mirror Lake Scenic Byway, visit Provo River Falls and Notch Pub.
- Followers: 20.2k
Read more stories like this and all of our Community coverage. And while you’re here, subscribe and get six issues of Salt Lake magazine, your curated guide to the best of life in Utah.
All of Utah is now in either moderate or severe drought, which is causing the state’s lakes and reservoirs to decline at an abnormally fast rate.
According to a report this week from the Utah Division of Water Resources, the state’s reservoir levels dropped by about 10% between June 1 to July 1—levels typically drop by about 2% during that timeframe.
“Unfortunately, our storage is declining at a concerning rate,” said Candice Hasenyager, director at the Utah Division of Water Resources, during a news conference at the Jordanelle Reservoir on Monday. “This dramatic decrease in storage is a clear signal that we need to watch how we use our water more closely than ever before.”
Abnormally dry weather, coupled with an underwhelming spring runoff season, have resulted in all of the state now experiencing some kind of drought. The desert regions in eastern and western Utah are now in severe drought, which means the air quality is worsened by dust, cattle have inadequate water, and pasture and streams and ponds are drying out, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
Higher elevation areas in central Utah are in moderate drought, which limits feed for cattle, negatively impacts soil moisture and begins to dry out natural springs.
That’s resulted in a statewide decline in reservoir levels. Earlier this month, almost all of northern Utah’s reservoirs were above 90% capacity — now, Porcupine, Jordanelle, Strawberry and Currant Creek reservoirs are the only bodies of water in Utah above 90% capacity.
And some reservoirs in the south are now at meager levels. Lake Powell, the second-largest reservoir in the country, is at 32% capacity; Yuba Reservoir is at 20%; Piute Reservoir is at 22%: and Panguitch Lake is at 50%.
Statewide, the average reservoir level is 75%.
Meanwhile, the Great Salt Lake is currently at about 4,192 feet in elevation, several feet below 4,198, the minimum for what’s considered a healthy range. Lake levels peaked in April at about 4,193 feet, and according to the Division of Water Resources, will continue to decline until temperatures drop and the irrigation season ends this fall.
Some water providers have now imposed restrictions on water usage and irrigation — to see if your provider is enforcing restrictions, visit the Utah Department of Natural Resources’ website.
See more stories like this and all of our City Watch coverage. 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?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kyle Dunphey covers politics, public safety and the environment for Utah News Dispatch. He was named Best Newspaper Reporter by the Utah Society of Professional Journalists in 2023 for his work on crime and immigration at the Deseret News.
The Grand America high tea is an annual tradition with beautiful service, an elegant atmosphere, and stunning chef-crafted finger food.
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Before you know it, summer will have slipped into fall with back-to-school stress and slimming daylight hours. Luckily, there’s still plenty of opportunities for making the best of the season with events throughout the valley. From free movies in the park to summer festivals and exclusive dining experiences, there’s a little something for everyone in this week’s curated event guide.
Monday 7/28
What: The Wizard of Oz
Where: Sundance Mountain Resort Outdoor Stage
When: 7/28 at 8 p.m.
In partnership with UVU School of the Arts, Sundance Mountain Resort presents a summer production of L. Frank Baum’s classic, The Wizard of Oz. Framed by majestic views of Mt. Timpanogos, this unique outdoor performance is perfect for all ages. Arrive at the venue early for a special barbecue dinner served in the Sundance Grove from 6-8 p.m. Tickets start at $34.
What: Free Concert Series in the Park
Where: Liberty Park
When: 7/28 at 7 p.m.
The Chase Home Museum of Utah Folk Arts has reprised their free summer concert series at Liberty Park this summer. Every monday in front of the Chase Museum in the middle of the park, spectators can enjoy a lively concert of traditional folk music and cultural dance. The performers on July 28 are Finch & the Magpies, and the Nepalese Association of Utah.
Tuesday 7/29
What: Friends & Family Night in the Garden
Where: Red Butte Garden
When: 7/29 at 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
On select Tuesdays this summer, Red Butte hosts special hands-on garden experiences with crafts, live music and more. This week’s theme is ‘Water Walkabou’, encouraging guests to learn more about water-wise living through garden tours, drought-friendly gardening practices, and a DIY rain catcher activity.
Wednesday 7/30
What: Star Party
Where: UofU South Physics Observatory
When: 7/30 at 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
The final star party of the evening will be held Wednesday night at the South Physic Observatory, near Kingsbury Hall on the University of Utah campus. Observe galaxies, nebulae, planets and more at this free-to-attend astronomic educational event. Summer viewing hours begin at 9 p.m. weather permitting.
Thursday 7/31
What: Ritual Chocolate Tasting
Where: 2175 W 3000 South Ste. 100, Heber
When: 7/31 at 7 p.m.
Learn how to taste chocolate like a connoisseur with the artisanal chocolatiers at Ritual. The intimate, guided tasting will teach guests how to slow down and savor a curated selection of chocolates, learn about their origins and discover unexpected pairings. $25 per person, reserve your spot by emailing info@ritualchocolate.com
What: Movies in the Park
Where: Centennial Park, West Valley City
When: 7/37 at sundown
Bring your own lawn chair or blanket and settle in for a free screening of Ferdinand. Arrive early to enjoy food trucks and shop the West Valley City Farmers Market. Find even more free movies at parks across the valley, here!
Friday 8/01
What: 2025 Kimball Arts Festival
Where: Main Street, Park City
When: 8/01–8/03
The 56th Annual Kimball Arts Festival connects community members with a network of jury-selected artists. Considered a premier Park City event, Main Street is transformed into a promenade of artist booths displaying everything from ceramics, to jewelery, to metalwork and photography. In addition to viewing and purchasing art, festival goers can enjoy live music, artist demonstrations, craft beer and local cuisine. Purchase single day and weekend passes, here.
What: 801 Days
Where: Gallivan Center
When: 8/01 at 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Commemorating a new holiday, 801 Day is a celebration of Utah’s favorite area code (sorry 385-ers). Hosted by City Cast Salt Lake, the free block party features a beer garden, live music, artisan marketplace, food trucks and more! This event is free to attend but requires a RSVP, do so here!
What: Beautifica 360
Where: Clark Planetarium
When: 8/01 with showings at 6 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.
Visionary composer James Hood has created a fulldome music experience designed to promote joy with fantastic imagery and inspiring audio.
What: Hogle Zoo’s 94th Anniversary
Where: Hogle Zoo
When: 8/01 at 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Celebrate Hogle Zoo’s lasting legacy at their anniversary event on August 1. Throughout the zoo guests can interact with themed games, animal biofact stations, animal enrichment activities and keeper chats, don’t forget to sign a personalized post card with your favorite memories at the zoo. See the full schedule of trainings, feedings and enrichment, here!
Saturday 8/02
What: Chef’s Table with Emilio Camara
Where: Rouser
When: 8/02 at 7 p.m.
Every Friday and Saturday, Rouser’s Chef de Cuisine hosts an exclusive dinner series featuring live-fire and charcoal grilling, culinary storytelling and six delectable courses. The private evening is only available for groups of six to eight, priced at $100 per person. Explore the menu, here.
What: Brewlastic Book Fair
Where: Kiitos Brewing
When: 8/02 at 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Ken Sanders Rare Books and Kiitos Brewing have joined forces to present a full day of books and brews. The free-to-attend Brewlastic Book Fair showcases Utah’s literary community with live readings, author speed dates, blind dates with a book, and a large market filled with local bookish vendors and booksellers.
What: 6th Annual Indian Food Fair
Where: Liberty Park
When: 8/02 at 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of India at this free outdoor festival. Local vendors will offer everything from aromatic spices, to classic Indian dishes, to clothing, jewelry and more.
Sunday 8/03
What: Summer BBQ Jam with Celebrity Chef Jack Arnold
Where: St. Regis Deer Valley
When: 8/03 at 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Famed barbecuer Jack Arnold will showcase his renowned grilling techniques set to high-energy music from DJ Dolph at this slopeside event. The all-you-can-eat evening features multiple food stations and collaborations from Colorado Craft Beef, Grilla Grills and Manukora Honey, all located inside the luxury resort’s Vintage Room and patio. This event is 21+, tickets are $125 per person.
What: Salt Lake Sideways Rooftop Tasting
Where: The Camber | 320 N 490 West, SLC
When: 8/03 at 4:30 p.m.
Learn more about Salt Lake’s small business community at this casual tasting event. A $5 entry fee includes samples of food and drink from eateries like Xiao Bao Bao, Vertical Diner, Argentina’s Best Empinadas, Laziz Kitchen and more.
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Campfire Hors D’oeuvres
Who says roasting sticks are just for marshmallows? Try spearing a round of Brie, mozzarella or cheddar instead. Once it’s gooey inside, wrap it in a slice of Creminelli salami or prosciutto, then place it on a cracker for a smoky, savory bite. Craving something sweet? Add a square of local artisanal chocolate from Ritual or Amano for an indulgent twist.
A Healthy Treat
The fire’s heat will start to caramelize the natural sugars in sliced peaches, pears, carrots, zucchini, apples, watermelon, pineapple and strawberries. You can roast your fruits and veggies on a skewer, or wrap them in tinfoil and set them in the coals. When they’re ready, drizzle them with a little bit of olive oil and sea salt.
Custom Kabobs
Once your fire reduces to glowing embers, set a grate over the coals and get ready for smoky meats and veggies. Any meat works—just avoid cuts that drip too much to prevent flare-ups. Add limes, salsa, garlic butter or other toppings, and voilà: a build-your-own feast that’s as fun to cook as it is to eat.
Don’t Forget the Bread
Roll your favorite dough into snakes, wrap them around skewers and roast away. Parbake beforehand for that perfect crispy-chewy bite. When they’re done, brush with garlic butter and parsley—or honey or your favorite dessert topping. Or skip the fuss and just bring a giant can of Nutella.
And for Dessert…
Besides the traditional s’mores, try roasting Starburst candies, Reese’s cups or cookie dough egg rolls (raw cookie dough wrapped in a wonton). For even more decadence, it’s hard to beat the traditional Dutch oven peach cobbler. Layer in your fixings, find an evenly-heated area in the coals, and let it work its magic for 45 minutes to an hour.
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