Salt Lake City’s drinking scene has quietly transformed into one of the most underrated in the Mountain West. While Utah’s liquor laws once conjured images of hidden “private clubs,” the modern reality is far more inviting. Today, the capital boasts a dynamic mix of historic taverns, sleek cocktail lounges, and inventive brewpubs that cater to every kind of night out.
What makes the bar culture here unique is its emphasis on craft and conversation. Because of the state’s historical focus on low-alcohol beer, local breweries learned to pack maximum flavor into every pint. That same attention to detail now extends to the city’s mixologists, who frequently highlight local botanicals, seasonal fruits, and house-made infusions.
Navigating the local scene still requires a bit of insider knowledge. Many establishments operate as “bars” or “restaurants” under state law, which can affect whether you need to order food with your drink. Knowing where to go ensures you spend less time deciphering rules and more time enjoying the atmosphere, whether you are in a cozy speakeasy or a sun-drenched rooftop patio.
The geography of Salt Lake’s nightlife is wonderfully walkable. Downtown and the adjacent Granary District have become hubs for converted warehouses and historic buildings turned into stylish watering holes. Meanwhile, neighborhoods like Sugar House and 9th & 9th offer a more laid-back, community-focused vibe that appeals to locals and visitors alike.
From award-winning gin bars to subterranean jazz lounges, the city offers a surprising depth of options. You can start your evening with a craft cocktail in a former auto shop and end it with a local lager in a century-old saloon. The best part is that most of these spots are within a short rideshare or TRAX light-rail ride from each other.
Whether you are a local looking to rediscover your city or a visitor exploring the Wasatch Front, this curated guide will help you find the perfect pour. Below, you will find a selection of the city’s most distinctive and beloved watering holes, each offering a unique slice of Salt Lake’s evolving identity.
Lake Effect
| Address | 155 W 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM |
| Phone | (801) 532-2068 |
Beautiful restaurant, loved the atmosphere. Cozy booths with romantic lighting. Good cocktails, but a bit pricey for what you get. Presentation of the food was great and overall the food was solid. Lamb lollipops were delicious! Chicken was a bit dry, but overall the dish was very good. Service was also prompt and just the right amount of attention.
I was visiting for a conference and looked up cool places to eat and this spot was really nice. I love the aesthetic. Everything was really good and I would definitely come back. Alex our waiter was friendly and provided great service!
I want to be clear - this review is for the dinner experience and the dinner experience only. I still fear entering this establishment once the moon has reached zenith.
The food is great, I haven’t had anything here I wouldn’t try again. The service was slower around dinner.
If you want to be able to chat, and not yell during dinner, this isn’t the place for you. While the live music is great, it’s borderline too loud for 6pm dinner on a Wednesday. However, decent place for after work drinks.
Really beautiful atmosphere with an incredible selection of alcohol drinks. The food is really good. I would recommend trying the forbidden rice and the wagyu skewers. They also have live music!
Stopped by Lake Effect for drinks around 11pm and had an okay time. The live music absolutely makes this place....great energy, lively crowd, and an overall fun nightlife vibe. We were at the end of our night, mainly people watching, came for a few drinks before heading back to our hotel, but you could tell a lot of people were enjoying themselves.
There is a cover charge, and the crowd is pretty diverse in age but definitely leans more 30s and under. It gets very packed, especially on the dance floor, so be prepared for that.
The drinks were good (but not amazing), and it can be standing room near the bar & dance floor area as well as the outdoor porch but that’s part of the experience here.
Overall, a great spot for live music and a fun night out.
The Vault
| Address | 202 S Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (801) 363-5454 |
Great service and drinks!
We visited on a Friday and found the atmosphere quiet and relaxed, which we really enjoyed. The appetizers were delicious, and the drinks were spot-on. The pasta, however, was a bit salty and undercooked for our taste. What really stood out was the manager—he personally introduced himself and offered several thoughtful solutions to make things right. That level of service is rare these days and definitely appreciated. Overall, we’d recommend the restaurant and would go back.
A wonderful experience. Benjamin was an excellent server, we were so impressed with his attentiveness and attention to detail. Chad made our night! He had great recommendations on drinks and made some of the best ones we’ve had in the city. The jazz duo playing sent us into a dreamy state, like we were transported to NY in the 50s. The vault truly was an EXPERIENCE. The atmosphere was beautifully designed, lighting impeccable… if you’re looking for a luxury escape for an hour or two in Utah, this is it. We can’t wait to come back.
A nice cocktail bar / lounge in Salt Lake City in the Monaco hotel. Service is good & attentive and the ambiance. My steak frites were cooked perfectly but founded the food to be a bit too salty. If they slightly reduced the amount of salt on the food it will be better. Overall will come again just for cocktails.
We stopped at The Vault twice while we stayed at the hotel. I loved the smoked old fashioneds. My spouse loved the other cocktails. Shout out to Nick for the mini lesson on cocktail smokers!
Incredible vibe last night, largely thanks to Ben! He’s highly skilled and gave 10/10 service. He definitely needs a barback or extra support back there to help the bar hit its full potential, but he handled the rush like a total pro (on a Tuesday evening!). Highly recommend grabbing a drink from him!
Water Witch
| Address | 163 W 900 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 3:00 PM – 1:00 AM Tuesday: 3:00 PM – 1:00 AM Wednesday: 3:00 PM – 1:00 AM Thursday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM Friday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Phone | (801) 462-0967 |
This bar is a great stop in Salt Lake City! The cocktails are a little bit more on the pricey side, definitely worth it though. I highly recommend the blended coffee drink. It was delicious, but takes a little longer to make because they make the whipped cream in store, but damn, it’s so worth it!
I have come here during the weekends, and it gets super busy. It’s a small bar with a little patio space. I just came for my first time during the day, and it was a great vibe as well. Super low-key and chill, and definitely didn’t have to fight for a spot to sit. I highly recommend it since it can be a vibe for the weekend or chill for a little day drinking.
We came to try their cocktails. The server was friendly and attentive. I found the cocktails more straightforward and not as inventive as other cocktail bars. However, the craft was there and everything was well made. They served a Trader Vic/1944 Mai Tai that was on par and delicious. This is hard to find. Many drinks had a tiki vibe which was fun. The setting was low key and almost dive bar-ish. The pricing was good and represented a fair value, especially compared to downtown prices. I would come back.
I had two drinks here that were great. This is my favorite kind of place: really creative stuff in a not stuffy overly fancy place... And it felt really queer and that's always a plus. Thanks for the great time!
Loved this place. The atmosphere was bright and comfortable, the drinks were well balanced and imaginative. We tried the 6 different featured cocktails. I would go both to have these again and try new items they featured. We sat inside but there was also a lovely patio available. Didn't try snacks or food from next door, but we could have ordered from Bar Nohm directly from our table starting when it opened at 5 pm. Angled street parking was available right outside.
You’d be hard-pressed to find a better cocktail in Salt Lake City. Everyone cares about their craft and it shows. Small interior, great vibes.
The Boiler Room
| Address | 32 Exchange Pl, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Friday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Phone | (855) 803-4328 |
The best spot in town, hands down. If you're looking for incredible food, great music, and an amazing vibe, this is it. The DJs always keep the energy high, and the security team does a fantastic job making sure everyone feels totally safe. Huge shoutout to the bar manager, Sam, for always looking out for us and hooking it up! Best service around—10/10 every time.
Came for bingo night. A good amount of people showed up and was such a good vibe. The host for bingo was fun, fair & engaging. Our waitress was very attentive, friendly & checked on us lots. We never had an empty water cup. All the staff at the bar were also friendly and quick at getting our drinks out. No complaints here!
The drinks, food, and service are amazing!!! Get in before 10 and there’s no cover charge on Friday & Saturday! The club after dark is such a vibe I love the patio and I can’t wait to spend more time here this summer!
I have been so impressed with the new staff every single time except for tonight. Security was as amazing as they always are, in multiple ways. They kept me safe from some awful dudes. Give them a raise. However, I was very disappointed with bar staff, especially on the right side of the bar. I came in. I chilled out. I waited for a little bit and that was fine. However, after waiting for like seven minutes, I told a specific very pretty blonde server that I wanted a happy dad. And then I sat for another at least 10 minutes at a mostly empty bar And the handsome ponytail bartender managed to not even make eye contact with me for another 7 minutes. I’m sure it was just an off night but what the hell is going on. It’s Thursday. I love you guys and I wanted to give you my money.
The Boiler Maker is the kind of place you go for “just one drink” and somehow end up closing it down every. single. time. The vibe is right, the music hits, and the crowd keeps things fun without being chaotic.
Sam behind the bar is the real MVP fast, unbothered, and somehow always one step ahead of your next drink order. No waving your card around like you’re trying to flag down a cab… Sam’s already on it.
Drinks are solid, service is smooth, and the whole night just flows way too easily. Honestly, if you’re trying to have a low-key night… maybe don’t come here 😏
Why KiKi
| Address | 69 W 100 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 6:00 PM – 1:00 AM Friday: 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (801) 641-6115 |
Took the family out, mom’s first drag show on their Mother’s Day show, and what a good show they put on. They know how to entertain and host. We traded some 20’s for the roll of $1’s they have because you know those outfits and makeup ain’t cheap. A girls gotta work for tips. But you can also buy $1 rolls with a card. It’s a very well run group. I highly suggest catching a show. We had snacks, super yummy. Definitely coming back here! Don’t be shy and come catch a show, it’s worth the table price! 10/10
we came with a party of 15 for a birthday party, and let me tell you IT WAS SO MUCH FUN!!! the queens were absolutely beautiful and amazing and funny. it was such an enjoyable experience. the food wasn’t the best but not the worst, and the penis shaped waffles are so fun!
my only complaint would be that our server was very unkind — but the rest of the staff was incredible. it was a packed full house and everyone killed it! if you’re thinking of coming, just do it!
A group of 6 of us went for my sister's in laws Bday (Fri the 13th). 2 or our 6 had been to Drag shows before. The other 4 of us was our first time. It was fun and we laughed so hard!!! Very entertaining. Relax get involved and it'll be a blast. My wife got the bacon chicken ranch wrap w/sweet potato fries. It was big, good flavor and the fries were delicious 🤤
I got the hamburger, built it how I wanted it, lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup and a lil mayo.
I got s.p. fries as well, basic burger BUT so good!!
My one sister in law got the loaded fries with crispy chicken. It was really really good.
They gave my sis in law a special birthday cake with ice cream.
The 2 MC queens were hilarious. All the performances were extremely impressive, fun and well chorographed. The host at the door and all the servers were joyful, entertaining and you could tell they all love their jobs!
I was visiting SLC from New York, and I must say, the SLC queens we saw were better than any show I’ve been to in NY. I was very impressed. I would stick with beer or a cider however as their house cocktails are super sweet.
It was an interesting show, I am a big fan of drag queens art, this show is different from the usual format but still I see how it can take place 🙂
Van Ryder a Rooftop Bar
| Address | 131 S 300 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (385) 403-0708 |
Tonight, I decided to explore across the street from my hotel and visited Van Ryder, a rooftop bar in downtown Salt Lake City. I really enjoyed the ambiance and the incredible views, but what stood out the most was the outstanding service from my bartenders, Siva and Pagie. They were professional, friendly, and made me feel like I was the only person at the bar, even though the place was packed all night. Their attention to detail and customer service were top-tier, and they clearly know what they’re doing.
I truly enjoyed my experience here, and the next time I’m in Utah, I’ll definitely be back for the great food, amazing atmosphere, and to be served by my new favorite Utah bartenders, Siva and Pagie.
I recently visited Van Ryder and had a very mixed experience.
When we first got there, things started off a little rough. The fries came out cold, and when we asked about sitting closer to the view, the hostess told us we couldn’t, even though the table was completely open. That honestly threw the vibe off for us. At that point, we told our server Kyle to just cancel the food and that we’d pay for our drinks and head somewhere else.
But I have to give credit where it’s due Carli, the manager, completely turned things around. She stepped in, moved us to the open table, and made sure we were able to actually enjoy the experience and the view. That made a big difference.
Once we reset, the lemon drops were amazing definitely a highlight. The burger was fresh, flavorful, and really good. The calamari wasn’t our favorite, and the fries were way too salty, which was disappointing after the first round already came out cold.
We’re not here on vacation and may not even be back in the state, but overall I’d rate the experience a 6/10 and the food an 8/10. Carli really saved what could’ve been a complete miss.
Came on a Sunday night around 7:00pm with reservations. Unfortunately, our first impression wasn’t great. The hostess was a bit rude to my husband and seemed to discourage us from sitting outside, even though our reservation and request were specifically for outdoor firepit seating. It almost made us reconsider staying.
That said, we’re glad we did. We ended up with a cozy sofa by the firepit, and they even offer blankets upon request, which was a really nice touch.
Our server Kyle was excellent! Very accommodating, attentive, and handled everything seamlessly even while busy.
The food isn’t really the highlight here, but that’s not what you come for. The atmosphere, views, and drinks are what make this place stand out. Added touch, the live DJ. It’s a great rooftop experience overall.
Despite the rocky start, it’s definitely a spot worth experiencing.
Super fun rooftop bar giving major cowboy vibes. More casual than you would expect 😉 great drink menu - I loved the southwestern salad, the cauliflower bites were a bit heavy but if you love buffalo sauce you will love them! Definitely somewhere you go to have a good drink and enjoy the scene - the live music was a plus but the sunset had me heading out earlier than I wanted to - it gets hot up there! Super sweet staff, they gave flowers to my mom for Mother’s Day and everyone seemed really happy to be working there.
The moment you step out of the elevator the view captures you. It's outdoors, so dress appropriately. They have blankets if you get cold. The nachos and tuna tartare are delicious.
Bucky was outstanding with service. Attentive and great with drink suggestions.
Music is great. Stick to the drinks on the menu. I had the most tragic vodka martini ever. I've never had to speak with the bartender about how to make a martini, but it happened here. They don't have proper martini glasses.
Gracie's
| Address | 326 S W Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM |
| Phone | (801) 819-7565 |
I love the live music and DJs they have. Great food and great bartending as well! I had two incredible dirty vodka martinis from Brett and Stewart. Matty checked in everyone often. The lettuce wraps are light and flavorful! The mocktails are also delicious!
I went for a second night in a row, with my husband joining me for dinner this time. Haley was very intuitive and knowledgeable of the menu. Delicious pork ribs and well cooked burger
I stopped by for dinner and sat out on the patio. I ordered an appetizer and the waitress returned with my soda informing it was shift change and that I needed to cash out. I did leaving a 25% tip assuming someone would follow up for my dinner order. I received my appetizer but no further follow up. I waited 45 mins and finally left. Walked to Squatters and was greeted quickly and served tacos.
We visited early on a weekday evening and left just before the live music. Next time we will stay. The restaurant has an extensive dinner menu and well as an extensive drink menu. I really appreciated the number of IPAs and Hazy IPAs from local breweries. Our party ordered the Shepard pie, shrimp tacos, and chimichurri steak with potatoes and salad. The Shepard Pie was really good! Our server, Christopher, was attentive and fun.
We went to Gracie’s Bar on January 16th 2026, for my wife’s birthday with our friends, and I’m pretty sure we were the entire population of downtown Salt Lake City that night.
This place was so empty it felt like we were patient zero for a zombie movie, like the bartender should’ve been asking us if they were still open.
You could hear your own thoughts echo, which is dangerous after a few drinks…
That said, our friends carried the night so hard it didn’t even matter, laughs were loud, vibes were high, and birthdays don’t care about attendance.
Still giving it a solid 9/10, because the real party was the people we were with, and Gracie’s politely let us crush this party!
The atmosphere and space are fun, inviting, and apt for conversations with friends without the music being extremely load.
The food on the other hand is average but the nachos not worth it at all. I ordered the big nachos and paid the extra $4 for carne asada. The meat looked old (it was cold too) and lacked flavor; plus it was chopped very small so it even looked like grown beef. Wife had a salad with Salmon. She said it was good. I was impressed that they have really good Tequilas like La Gritona which made for a delicious Paloma and sipping tequila. The staff are nice and attentive. We'll give them another try, but never again on the nachos--please revisit your process and meat!
The Red Door
| Address | 57 W 200 S #102, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (801) 363-6030 |
The service was attentive and friendly.
The drinks came out quickly and tasted good. I would say their garnish game could use some work though. Craft cocktails at a high price point like these shouldn't come with such large, clumsy, hacks of lemon wedge.
The low lighting sets a nice ambiance and the music plays at a good enough volume that you can enjoy a conversation but still feel some privacy in spite of the tightly packed in tables and chairs.
The seats are uncomfortable. Mostly hard, flat wooden chairs and cheap metal stools. Certainly not something that invites you to lounge a while.
Our bartender Adele was simply superb! She guided my friend through their first martini experience and it couldn’t have gone better! The pink pussy cat recommendation won over my friend and we tried the best espresso martini in utah and my barista friend loved it! Her people skills are the best and her hair!!!! Loved my experience here!
My colleague and I enjoyed this place so much during our work week in Salt Lake City, that we stopped in three times in one week! Adelle was a superstar… a delightful host and an excellent bartender, who made our experience at The Red Door an absolute pleasure. In addition, the well curated selection of spirits and fun variety cocktails, made this our favorite spot during the week for after dinner drinks.
If sleek, sexy and dark candlelit spaces are your jam, you have a new home!!
We’ve never been but had friends suggesting we go. 4 drinks later we were sold: superb experience. The food bites are simple snacks, the he drinks are all out fancy, decadent, sweet, full bodied, strong, and fun.
The staff was nice and dressed to the 9’s. There’s a patio we didn’t enjoy, but I see it busy all the time.
I loved the mood of The Red Door. It was within walking distance from the hotel I was staying at. My colleague and I enjoyed the atmosphere.
Piper Down Pub
| Address | 1492 S State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84115 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM |
| Phone | (801) 468-1492 |
I hadn't been into Piper Down for quite a few years but I was craving a Patty Melt and figured I'd give them a try. It definitely scratched my itch! Really good beef, the onions were grilled nicely and I loved the rye bread.
I'm kinda mad at myself for not thinking of Piper more often when it comes to lunch! I was super impressed with the quality of the food, it was obviously prepared fresh and the fries are pretty damn good.
Also, very reasonable prices for bar food. Love the bar atmosphere too and the service was great! I won't make the mistake of staying away for so long again!
We can here for vegan food. We loved the meals and also the kind wait staff! We were helped by a lovely waiter named Brittany who was so friendly and accommodating. Food was tasty and service was fast
- The ambiance at piper down was literally the best vibe I've come across in my many experiences with late night pub food. They had a dj spinning vinyl and every single song was incredible and his transitions were lovely
- Super cool to get to meet the members of the Salt Lake Irish mafia who hangout in the back room!
Piper Down by FAR has one of the best Brunch foods (for a bar). Their chicken fried steak is so good, probably the best we’ve had. I got the burrito and it was also very good. There are no pancakes on their brunch menu though, so if you’re a pancake fan i’d go somewhere else. Unsure about the overall bar environment since i’ve only gone here for their brunch but it was delicious and honestly took be by surprise.
(The pics attached to this review are of plant based items - if that helps any wandering veggies out there) - I have been coming here for years now. Not only is the regular menu incredible, but the vegan menu is absolutely iconic. If I am going out to dinner or know someone who is, this is the 1st place I recommend. There is truly something for everyone. Prices are great, people are kind, portions are perfection. On the plant based menu try out their version of a blt, or their garlic mushroom burger, or their basic cheese burger 🍔. For the non veggies, I would recommend their fish tacos or the cowboy burger. Their desserts are also incredible. To top it all off they serve Brigham's Brew from Wasatch Brewery, you cannot go wrong.
This is my first time coming here and it was a 10/10 service but MOSTLY because of our bartender Brittany!!! Her drinks were top tier. She was bringing her Florida radiance to Utah. She was so kind and her service was amazing. We also got the Scottish eggs - those were dry but their mustard was DELICIOUS. but atmosphere was great. Patio in the roof was great. Brittany is amazing we will be back
Earth & Stones
| Address | 63 E Exchange Pl, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | — |
Cute and cosy bar run by amazing ladies! We went there around Halloween. Loved each and every cocktail here. They are amazing for the price! Not a lot of food options but their potato bites were too good!
coffee and breakfast options are so good 😍😍 the vibe is great to enjoy the day.
Also the hot chocolate and Vanilla matcha latte 👀 never really enjoyed matcha until i tried it here
I can’t remember the name of the drink we ordered but it has vodka and lavender and was incredible and the non alcoholic beverages were great for our DD
Super small, intimate space. It has a "homey" vibe with blankets on the couches. There was a birthday party going on when we stopped in and the staff seemed a little stressed. Drinks took quite a while to order and receive. They were very yummy, though. 4 stars because I didn't receive the correct drink.
Super fun and esthetic bar/coffee shop. Great drinks and deals too! Side note, my lady left her purse there when we stopped for a drink. The staff and owner were super helpful! Not only holding the purse over the weekend but making sure I was able to pick it up when I was available. Thanks again!
ONTOP SLC
| Address | 328 S State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 PM – 1:00 AM Tuesday: 6:00 PM – 1:00 AM Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Thursday: 6:00 PM – 1:00 AM Friday: 3:00 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 6:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 3:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Phone | (385) 499-2364 |
I've been to ONTOP in the past and had some good times, but I went for St Patrick's Day this year and last weekend because we thought a Brazilian DJ was going to play... Each of the last two times, the DJ inside was constantly pressing this laser siren sound effect. It's seared into my senses. Every song transition, every tempo change, after lyrics he liked, absolutely constantly. My friend group started a game where we tried to guess when he'd press it next because it would not stop.
Great bar, I was skeptical at first but once we got in there it had a good vibe. The dj (pretty sure their name was Caleb) super nice played songs I requested and was just a vibe. TBH come here to dance, there is a lot of space and it’s just chill
In a city where the clubs and bars are already less than subpar, add another one “On top” of the list.
Waiting in line to get in just so me and my 1 friend (who was also a girl) got past while the 2 guys we were with were held back while the bouncer let in a group of assumingely his friends. We get yelled at and pushed into the bar while trying to wait for them. We finally manage to get a drink after who knows how long. Then squeeze our way into the outdoor section which has to be some sort of fire hazard with how many people they were letting in. Music was fine, the only thing that had attracted us into coming in at all. Minutes after being in there we see one of the paid neon signs being paraded through the group saying “Free Epstein” which left many speechless and incredibly uncomfortable. Not sure why the bar would agree to putting something like that on their sign, i guess if theyre that desperate for money…
Music was fine, drinks were terrible and expensive, the people there were horrible. Do not recommend going.
Worst place ever. No where to sit unless you pay for a VIP seat. DJ sucks. They’ll take advantage of you if you’re tipsy, meaning they’ll run up your bill. Almost need to have a designated person to buy your drinks who is not drinking to watch your tab. Don’t be deceived by the long lines.
Your music is terrible and way too loud at night Thursday-Sunday. We can hear it two blocks away multiple floors up. Other people living nearby also agree the music is a nuisance
Bar-X
| Address | 155 E 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 PM – 1:00 AM Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Thursday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Friday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 6:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Phone | (801) 355-2287 |
I had an amazing experience at Bar-X! The atmosphere is stylish, cozy, and perfect for relaxing after a long day. The interior is beautifully designed, especially the long bar with its warm lighting that creates a great vibe.
The cocktails were excellent—well-balanced, creative, and made with high-quality ingredients. The bartenders were friendly, knowledgeable, and happy to recommend drinks based on my preferences. Service was fast, attentive, and professional throughout the evening.
The music wasn't too loud, making it easy to enjoy conversations with friends. Overall, the combination of great drinks, excellent service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes this place worth visiting. I'll definitely be coming back. Highly recommended!
Had some after dinner cocktails, we got the Ivy League and Porch Pounder— thought they were okay tasting but the presentation was nice. The music playlist was fun, but clashed a bit with the speak-easy, golden, classic decor but that’s fine. Loved the bar shelf organisation, so visually pleasing. Didn’t order food, but the options were so limited I didn’t have high hopes.
I live in Tucson, and I was looking for a bar with a great vibe, while I was here in SLC. Bar-X did not disappoint! Julie is an amazing bartender, cocktail officianado, and you can tell she loves this place!
I told her it reminds me of a place in Tucson called The Shelter, because both bars play old movies on TV screens, and they both have great vibes!
Bar-X is also connected to Beer Bar, which has the grill and supports larger groups and has screens for sports. Great pairing!
I'll just say "Come to the Bar-X side!" 😎
My husband and I absolutely love coming here! Everyone is friendly, from the staff to fellow customers. And no one is better cocktails and cocktails than the bartenders here. An oasis from the insanity that is our country atm. Just go there, you'll see.
I sat down at the bar, ordered a drink, bartenders were awesome. Drink was great. After asking about food, they said I had to go wait in line across the way. I did so. Upon returning, lost my seat at the bar. Not a big deal. But it would be awesome if they could take food orders while already seated. Oh well. Food was good. I ordered the Southwest Brat & the drink was a Penicillin with Black Label Johnny Walker base.
Very college bar atmosphere.
Beerhive Pub
| Address | 128 S Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM Thursday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM Friday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (801) 364-4268 |
Great beer selection! Nice bartender and good crowd. No food here but they’ll allow you to bring in your to go order.
The beer here is great! Decent price for a pint! The customer service is excellent here! Our bartender gave us free samples of the beer and made sure our beer was poured the way we wanted! He was friendly, chatty and informative! Definitely worth checking out! The vibe here is dark, chill, cozy and calm! The decor is unique, it’s on a busy street of downtown salt lake and has quite the charm to it! Will be back soon!
We had our eye on this bar and planned to end our city tour here. The interior has its own charm and vibe. It was great to sit at the bar, and thanks to the cooling strip that runs along the entire bar counter, our beer didn't get warm. The beer selection was wide, the beers were tasty, and the bartender was very friendly. My colleague and I spent a really nice evening here, and it was the perfect end to our exploration of Salt Lake City.
Weekdays or weekends always a cool calm environment to have some cold drinks. All the bartenders I have met have all been really cool and nice all the beers are cold and I love the ice rail that keeps your beers cold
Great bar! Friendly, efficient service with really great selection of beers. Great prices on the liquor there too. Can't go wrong with Redbreast 12yr old Irish and Epic Nitro Stout on tap! TNX
Dick N' Dixie's
| Address | 479 E 300 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM |
| Phone | (801) 994-6919 |
Stopped by for a quick drink after our dinner date and ended up staying the whole night. Attentive bar tenders, cheap drinks, and friendly vibe overall. We had a great time!
Such a down to earth fun bar and the service is incredible! Especially the bartender Mads. She’s welcoming, hardworking, and personable. Will be back and recommend this bar to everyone.
P.S. Personally I think there should be a gold standard when it comes to tipping. If you can’t tip AT LEAST 15-20% when you go out to a restaurant or a bar, stay home.
Madz and the whole dick’s crew provide the best bar experience in SLC. Top tier. I’ve never had a bad time there! Be sure to check out their assortment of slushies this summer - the peach redbull they’ve got now goes great with tequila and the frozen aperol spritz is just what you need on a hot day!
Always tip your bartenders! Nobody wants to be the guy who tips $1 on $39.54 🤮
For reference, Iszack:
20% tip on your tab: $7.90
(39.54 x 0.2 = 7.908)
so, $8 would be an acceptable tip.
your tip percentage: 2.5%
(1 / 39.54 = 0.0253)
(0.0253 x 100 = 2.53%)
as you can see, unacceptable.
whether it’s math or manners that are confusing to you, perhaps it’s best for everyone if you take your business elsewhere 😉
I came into Dick’s N Gracie’s and bought three shots for my friends, totaling $39.54. I left a $1 tip, and while I understand that may not have been the tip the bartender expected, I don’t think that justifies being mocked or disrespected.
The bartender “Mads” made a comment about my last name being “Rich,” which felt unnecessary and unprofessional. I went there to have a good time, not to be made fun of over a tip amount. On top of that, when I left my first review, the response I received was just an emoji, which made the situation feel even more dismissive.
I understand bartenders work hard and tips matter, but customers should still be treated with basic respect. This experience left a bad impression, and I hope management takes it seriously.
Was told that we left too little of a tip, and that came with a lot of unneeded attitude. My friend who paid the till was a bit tipsy, so he probably wasn’t thinking too much about it. We came back into the bar and asked for a few more shots and received a snarky response by the server named Madz who helped us earlier that night. When I go to a bar, I expect good service no matter the tip. Get your bartenders in shape then I’ll think about coming back.
International
| Address | 342 S State St #69, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Friday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM |
| Phone | (801) 906-8798 |
My boyfriend and I have been looking for OUR going out place and as soon as we visited International (locally: Nash) on a night where they were having a Goth DJ night, we found our place!!! The vibes, the music, the crowd, the DRINKSS! Their winter drink menu is so flavorful and different! We love the lemon coco and the Berries & Cream drink (not so much the one with mole in it). We have enjoyed every time we have gone!! Cannot recommend enough. After the bar, you gotta hit up one of the hotdog vendors outside!! The perfect sustenance for a night out, haha!
Truly this place sucks. Too tight, bartenders don’t care. Any amount of fun you could have here, the staff will make sure you have a mediocre night. Not worth it do not go
Cool bar, a step above The Jackalope in terms of service/drinks/pricing. Cocktail was good, blackberry beer was great and they have steins for lots of beers which is pretty sick. Left bathroom is men’s (no signage because they’re hip). Pool is free!
10 dollars per person to get in just to have the worst music i’ve heard in years. The only good thing was the photo booth that cost 9 bucks to use then takes 10 minutes for the photos to come out. There should never be a cover fee for this type of place.
Workers here are evil.
They tried to keep my phone and say my phone wasnt there but I have location tracking so I said to the worker, no it is there.
Girl with glasses and face piercings wouldnt give it back to me even tho i was standing at their doors, on my work lunch break needing my phone back. Thankfully im insistent and advocate for myself and got my phone back. Screw this place.
Eight Settlers Lounge Downtown
| Address | 44 Exchange Pl, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (801) 410-8297 |
Food, drinks, atmosphere, and service were incredible. Aaliyah provided top notch service. My friends and I shared the Shishito Peppers, Truffle Mashed Potatoes, Empanadas, Calamari, and Ahi Tacos for dinner; and had the Pistachio Gelato for dessert. Everything was beautifully presented and tasted amazing! I can't wait to go back and try their other dinner options.
So glad we found this spot! The food was delicious and portions were large for the tapas style. Our server, Cameron, was so attentive and we even had a prime spot to enjoy the live music. We will definitely be back on future visits to SLC.
Delicious food, great service, and awesome vibe! Our waiter & bartender Cameron was excellent! He was very knowledgeable about the menus and was happy to answer questions. Will be back!
All I can say is - "WOW"!! Delicious food, creative cocktails, great service in a super cozy and inviting space. So many incredibly amazing flavors !! The whole experience exceeded my expectations. This place is a must go!
The female chef is great, you can see that she puts a lot of love & pride into the delicious dishes..All the dinner items we had were excellent, & dont forgot the Tiramisu !!
Loved the music & atmosphere turn that Music UP!!
Friendly staff...I will be going back.
Insider Tips for Enjoying Salt Lake City’s Bar Scene
Before you head out for a night on the town, understanding a few local nuances will significantly enhance your experience. Salt Lake City is incredibly welcoming, but its unique regulatory landscape and high-altitude environment mean a little preparation goes a long way. These practical tips will help you navigate the scene like a seasoned local, ensuring your focus remains on the flavor and the fun.
1. Understand the “Bar” vs. “Restaurant” Distinction
In Utah, establishments are licensed differently. A “bar” license means you do not need to order food, but you must be 21 or older to enter. A “restaurant” license allows minors to be present, but you may be required to order food with your alcohol. If you are planning a trip with a mixed-age group or just want a drink without a meal, check the establishment’s license type online before you go.
2. Pace Yourself at Altitude
Salt Lake City sits at approximately 4,300 feet above sea level. The thinner air means alcohol can affect you more quickly than it does at sea level. Drink plenty of water between beverages, and consider starting with a lower-ABV option like a session beer or a spritz. This is especially important if you have just flown in from a coastal city.
3. Explore the Local Beer Culture
While you are here, do not just stick to national brands. Utah brewers have mastered the art of flavorful, sessionable beers due to historical alcohol limits. Look for local favorites from Fisher Brewing, TF Brewing, or Kiitos. Many bars feature rotating local taps, and asking your bartender for a “local recommendation” is always a good move.
4. Take Advantage of Happy Hour and “Zion Curtain” Workarounds
Although traditional happy hour pricing was illegal for years, recent law changes now allow many bars to offer discounted drinks during specific windows. Ask your server if they have any specials. Additionally, while the “Zion Curtain” law has been relaxed, some bars still craft their cocktails in a theatrical, visible manner—enjoy the show.
5. Plan Your Transportation
While downtown is walkable, the weather can change quickly, especially in winter. The TRAX light rail offers a free fare zone downtown, making it easy to hop between bars without moving your car. If you are heading to the Granary District or Sugar House, a rideshare is often the most convenient and safest option for a night of tasting.
Salt Lake City’s bar scene is a testament to resilience and creativity. The constraints that once defined the city’s nightlife have fostered a culture of quality over quantity, where the craft of the drink and the warmth of the welcome take center stage. You will find that many bartenders here are not just servers but storytellers, eager to share the history of their building or the origin of a unique local ingredient.
Ultimately, the best bar in Salt Lake City is the one that matches your mood. Whether you are seeking a quiet corner for a first date, a lively patio for a summer evening, or a historic counter to strike up a conversation with a stranger, this city has a stool waiting for you. So, raise a glass, take in the mountain views, and enjoy the distinct character of Utah’s capital.
