Utah bar scenes aren’t just about the food and drinks but the social aspect of gathering with people—laughing and loving with friends. I’m always on the lookout for a great Utah bar scene where I can eat, drink, talk, dance, and feel connected. So, what are the best bar scenes in Utah? Here are my top five.
1. Lake Effect Cocktail Bar
Lake Effect Cocktail Bar is probably my favorite bar in town. I love the chic vibe and atmosphere where a little smart outfit is preferred over jeans and flip flops. Located in downtown Salt Lake City, they have super creative cocktails that are also super delicious. For something more feminine, I like the Lacey Lingerie, a blend of rose vodka and rose champagne. For something more aggressive, go for a Thor. The combination of Old Forester Lake Effect barrel-proof bourbon, Rittenhouse rye, espresso demerara, and angostura and barrel-aged bitters will put some hair on your chest. Lake Effect serves fabulous food for brunch, lunch, dinner, and late night when a scrumptious charcuterie board is all you need. Live music seven days a week.
2. Whiskey Street and White Horse
Whiskey Street Cocktails & Dining and White Horse Spirits & Kitchen are sister bars and restaurants located in downtown Salt Lake City on Main Street. I’m talking really great bar food such as pork belly lettuce wraps, truffle grilled cheese, braised short rib, and Dungeness crab gnocchi. Both places are great for sampling whiskey, but all spirits, beer, and wine are available. Come for the food, stay for the whiskey, and return for the people!
3. Club 90
Located at the opposite end of the valley just off 90th South, Club 90 offers classic bar grub such as nachos, wings, burgers, and sandwiches. The cover charge is only $7 and the drinks are cheap! I love the vibe of this old classic hangout in Sandy. You will find me there most Saturday nights dancing my little toes off and loving the DJ and no-nonsense crowd. It’s a great place to let your hair down, no matter your age!
4. The Cliff Dining Pub
The Cliff Dining Pub is another fun spot at the south end of the valley in Draper. The food is always good, and the bartenders know what they’re doing. There is dancing on Friday and Saturdays in the pub area. If you want more of a restaurant experience, they have two separate areas, so you can choose your vibe. I personally come here for the outdoor patio with amazing views of the valley. I love to watch a romantic sunset and sip bubbly or dine on the restaurant patio for a completely relaxing evening. A little known fact is that they have a great sushi bar with really fresh fish and talented chefs that make it a one of my fab spots for dinner and drinks!
5. O.P. Rockwell Cocktail Lounge & Music Hall
For a special night out, head to O.P. Rockwell Cocktail Lounge & Music Hall on historic Park City Main Street. It’s a music bar with a classy atmosphere, and the tunes are always rolling with live bands. I suggest starting with dinner at a Park City restaurant and finishing up at O.P. Rockwell for the rest of the evening (since they don’t serve food here). There are lots of seating options, depending whether you want to be next to the band, at the bar, or in a more secluded area. If you love craft cocktails and live music, you’re going to love this place, but be sure to purchase tickets in advance!
Here’s to breaking bread and toasting to you soon at one of these favorite Utah bar scenes of mine!
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