As the headquarters of the Mormon Church—with most streets named in relation to their distance from the temple, lest you forget the focus of the city—Salt Lake City has long had trouble shaking its conservative reputation. But with recently relaxed liquor laws, a burgeoning cocktail scene, farm-to-fork dining, and some of the best skiing in North America, this "Crossroads of the West" is a hidden gem for mixing adventure, relaxation, and surprisingly top-notch options for fun.
Powderhounds will feel at home at one of SLC's 14 nearby ski resorts, which get steady snow as late as April, and off-the-slopes diversions abound both in the city center and its neighboring communities. So pack your snow jacket, hop a direct flight from OAK or SFO to Salt Lake in less time than it would take you to drive to Tahoe, and prepare to forget everything you thought you knew about this ideal mountain getaway.
Courtesy of Bodega
Bodega/The Rest
Upstairs, expect a backdrop of bullhorn-affixed brick for tacos and whiskey. Downstairs, the experience transforms into a decidedly upscale affair in the vein of 1920s speakeasies, with a real record player—reservations strongly recommended. The low-lit, unabashedly hip surroundings set the scene for expertly crafted cocktails and filling mains such as the order-ahead beer-can chicken, perhaps best enjoyed over a vintage tome or view of the obscure taxidermy.// 331 Main St., bodega331.com
Eva Restaurant/Eva's Bakery
Both named after the chef/owner's great grandmother, Eva Restaurant and Eva's Bakery draw inspiration from their namesake's love for French cooking and high-quality ingredients. Small plates at the main restaurant defy easy definition, at times veering towards comfort food and at others aligning more with Mediterranean flavors. With reclaimed wood and chalkboard menus (plus a hidden backyard patio), the laid-back vibe matches the relaxed presentation of the brick oven–blistered flatbread, stone-fired baker's pies, and creamy shrimp and grits. Over at the bakery, you're welcomed by the smell of fresh bread, which you can purchase by the loaf or savor in a stuffed French toast or croissant sandwich. // 317 S. Main St., evaslc.com; 155 S. Main St., evasbakeryslc.com
The Eating Establishment on Main Street
Recently revamped by the same Ty Burrell–helmed restaurant group that's behind popular SLC watering holes Bar X and Beer Bar, The Eating Establishment is the only place on Park City's Main Street that can serve booze as early as 10am due to a special license, making it an ideal place for a boozy brunch. While a visit before hitting the slopes is ideal, the 40-year-old restaurant is making a name for itself as an aprés-ski destination as well, with housemade ingredients for its cocktails, right down to the ice. // 317 Main St. (Park City
