With thin margins, rising costs, staffing challenges and construction woes, the challenges for some local restaurants proved insurmountable in 2024. Here are a few (of many) Salt Lake City restaurants that we are still mourning.
SLC Eatery—Closed Sept. 2024
One of the most innovative restaurants in town, Chef Logen Crew led a creative team with beautiful service and plating like a piece of modern art, local ingredients and a distinct flair. With true class, they stayed open for an extra 30 days to give their staff a chance to find new jobs. They hope to continue with private parties, supper clubs and pop-ups.
The Local—Closed Sept. 2024
As a food hall, The Local struggled to gain traction, with many of the local vendors leaving and receiving backfill from brand-owned venues. They hope to re-open as an event venue down the road.
Taco Taco—Closed Summer 2024
Downtown Salt Lake City’s first L.A.-style taco counter, Taco Taco was serving squash blossom tacos with a full salsa bar amidst Mexican luchador masks starting in 2014. The original owner sold the restaurant in early 2024, and the concept quietly closed down soon after.
Stanza—Closed Oct. 2024
I lived next door to Stanza from the day they opened in 2016. Their house-made pasta was revelatory, and their affogato with house-made gelato was worth the trip alone.
Beehive Distilling Bar—Closed March 2024
While the distillery remains open, the lovely bar is sadly closed to the public. We are still mourning this beautiful watering hole/meeting spot.
Tradition—Closed Spring 2024
Known for its pies, Southern-leaning fare and herbal cocktails, Tradition transformed a former eyesore garage into a vibrant neighborhood dining spot across the street from Liberty Park. They shuttered their doors suddenly and without notice, even to their employees—a tasteless ending to a formerly delicious spot.
Good Grammar—Closed June 2024
One of our gems of a downtown cocktail bar, was always on the cutting edge of pushing the cocktail envelope during its eight years in business. The space closed and flipped quickly, and we are excited to see what’s new.
Pig & A Jelly Jar—Closed Aug. 2024
After closing their Holladay location in 2023, the Ogden and Salt Lake City locations closed a year later. They made us all love chicken and waffles, with Frank’s Red Hot Sauce and real maple syrup on top.
To combat the bad news, we wanted to take a moment and share the stories of several local restaurants that have adapted, moved, transformed or doubled down on staying
the same to stay in business. Find three restaurants that thrive through grit and great food, here.
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 of life in Utah?
