Looking for something fun to do before summer ends? Look no further -- we've compiled a list of some of our favorite spots in the Salt Lake Valley that we think are must-visits this summer.
✅ The Pie Pizzeria
The Pie Pizzeria has been a classic Utah landmark for almost 40 years. A popular hangout and study spot for college students, to a family and friends dinner favorite, the Pie is a Salt Lake Valley absolute favorite. They have, hands down, the cheesiest pizza. If you aren’t used to a lot of cheese, it may be hard to swallow, but the taste is unbeatable and make you keep coming back for more.
✅ Hatch Family Chocolates
Hatch Family Chocolates is the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth any time of year. Ice cream? They've got it. Hot chocolate? It's PERFECT! Hand-dipped chocolate and caramel apples? Yep! Brownies, cookies, pastries and more? You KNOW they have the best. Hatch Family Chocolates is located in the Avenues in Salt Lake City, and hosts some of the few remaining true chocolate dippers and candy makers.
✅ Salt Lake Roasting Company
Salt Lake Roasting Company takes their coffee seriously, from the best coffee bean selection to the perfect brewing temperature (which is between 195 and 205F, by the way!). Whether you’re a college student needing a cup of joe before the final for summer is due, or a business person needing some hot chocolate in the middle of broad daylight, this place has the best of both that can be found!
✅ Ballet West
Ballet West began in Salt Lake City in 1963, and has been setting the standard for fantastic dance performance ever since. Ballet West features many decorated artists and choreographers from around the world, and consistently ranks as one of the top professional ballet companies in the United States. Grab season tickets from the 2019-2020 season, or visit their website to see what events they're hosting this summer.
✅ Diabolical Records
Diabolical Records is our Business Development Assistant, Jacqueline Mumford's favorite place in Salt Lake. Their record selection, new and used, and free live performances from local artists to internationally recognized artists, mixed with the music-lovers atmosphere they've created is hard to beat. Swing by their shop on 238 South Edison Street to discover new music and fall in love all over again with songs and artists you thought you already knew.
✅ Dolcetti Gelato
The thing I missed the most from my trip to Italy was the Gelato. When we visited Dolcetti Gelato, I realized the AMAZING about being home from Italy is eating THIS Gelato and experiencing the true Italian atmosphere here. Swing by their location on 9th and 9th. You HAVE to try to Coconut Sticky Rice gelato. Thank us later.
✅ King’s English Bookshop
We’ve talked up our friends at King’s English before, but imagine You’ve Got Mail come to life. This is the greatest cozy bookshop in SLC. The owners know many of their patrons by name and even if they don’t know you, they can still pick out a book you’ll love in just a few minutes.
✅ Sweet Lake Biscuits and Limeade
Sweet Lake transformed from a seasonal farmer's market treat to a brick and motor small business, offering the best lemon and limeade in the Valley, hands down. Their impressive drink selection is matched by an even better variety of food, from warm biscuits to delicious salads, all that go perfectly with their raspberry limeade (our personal favorite.)
✅ The Park Cafe
Located right across from Liberty Park, the Park Cafe is a great breakfast or lunch spot with views almost as good as their pancakes. It's the perfect place to meet up with friends, go out for a family brunch or grab a quick and casual bite to eat! SLC residents are always vying for a spot, so it's often crowded in the mornings. The service is great, and the wait is well worth it!
✅ Saffron Valley
Lavanya Mahate opened the first Saffron Valley location in South Jordan, UT in 2011 after moving to the U.S. from India. Since then, Saffron Valley has expanded to five locations, including a satellite restaurant at the University of Utah, with a sixth opening in Riverton on August 15. Saffron Valley carries an unmatched taste of India, with incredible cuisine and an environment that makes you feel right at home. It's a must-visit.
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Whatever you’re doing this summer, supporting small helps many different economies and is so much fun. Feel free to ask the owner at these establishments what their favorite product is and why. They will doubtless be happy to tell you the story. Love this big life in a small way and give back to those around you!