Salt Lake City: Different by Nature

From hot coffee to artisan cheese, Salt Lake City, UT (SLC) has become a fast-growing destination for chefs and foodies from across the country. With one of the largest Mormon populations in the country, a religion that prohibits the intake of alcohol, caffeine, coffee, and tea, it is interesting that this small metropolitan tucked in the middle of the western United States would be named in the top five New Food Cities of 2014 by Wine Enthusiast. But with new restaurants popping up throughout the city, the "Different by Nature" urbane has a lot to offer the casual visitor.

Throughout The Art of Catering Food conference, you'll have the opportunity to explore historic city landmarks, sample local artisan cuisine, and discover some of the most popular restaurants and brewpubs throughout downtown SLC–and you will still have time to venture out on your own! Here are some attractions, recommended by the locals, that we encourage you to try during your trip:

Utah Olympic Park
Visit the spot of the 2002 Winter Olympics and walk the tracks of your favorite winter games, from bobsledding to Nordic Ski jumps. Today, the park is used as an activity hub with zip lining, comet bobsledding, adventure courses and more!
435.658.4200 | utaholympiclegacy.org/park

Forage Restaurant
For those of you looking to taste truly locally-grown ingredients, Forage is the place to be! This James Beard Award semifinalist uses the best ingredients found in the Wasatch mountains and from local ranches to create awe-inspiring dishes. At $89 per tasting menu, these delicacies come at a steep price, but one warranting numerous awards and recognition.
801.708.7834 | www.foragerestaurant.com

Eva's Bakery
If bread is what you crave, Eva's Bakery is the perfect French pastry shop for your morning, afternoon and snacking needs. Boasting an authentic menu of French delicacies, you can enjoy artisan delights breakfast through lunch.
801.335.3942 | evasbakeryslc.com

Bambara
Recently named Salt Lake City's Best Restaurant, Bambara is host to a highly recommended seasonal menu using the city's finest organic and sustainable ingredients. Located in close proximity to many top performance venues, Bambara is a choice location for pre- and post-show dining.
801.363.5454 | www.bambara-slc.com

City Creek Center
In addition to the 110+ stores, this unique shopping center was recently named the Best Retail Development in the Americas and features a retractable glass roof, hourly fountain shows, and a creek that truly creates a natural surrounding indoors.
www.shopcitycreekcenter.com

The Copper Onion
For a casual dining experience, The Copper Onion serves regional American fare for brunch, lunch, and dinner throughout the week in a casual and affordable environment.
801.355.3282 | thecopperonion.com/home

Food Trucks
Salt Lake City has experienced a thriving food truck scene since 2010, with everything from poutine to korean barbecue to grilled cheese. If you're staying in town an extra day after AOCF, be sure to check out the Thursday Food Truck Rally at Gallivan Center for some amazing mobile fare. If you can't make it, not to worry! There are 36 mobile food trucks registered in SLC so you're bound to find something good to munch on during your stay.
roaminghunger.com/slc

Faustina Restaurant
Located in a quiet neighborhood, this award-winning American Bistro is offers a sophisticated dining experience for a reasonable price.
801.746.4441 | www.faustinaslc.com

Vinto
Wood fire pizza and seasonal Italian cooking attract locals and tourists alike to this award-winning restaurant year-round. Stay and dine or order food to go and enjoy a nice stroll through downtown Salt Lake City.
801.539.9999 | www.vinto.com


While meals are provided throughout the day during AOCF programming and optional events, most dinners and breakfasts are on your own and there are many more options than what's listed above.

And in case you're wondering, liquor is available and you do not need to buy a membership to drink at a bar–but there are still some restrictions that may catch you off guard. To learn more about Utah's updated liquor laws, click here.

Start planning your AOCF2015 trip now–take your team or meet new attendees and enjoy all this majestic metropolis has to offer!


Get Fresh June 2015