Top-Rated Local Eats: A Guide to Utah and Salt Lake County's Best Restaurants

Utah and Salt Lake County are home to some of the best locally owned restaurants in the state. From cozy cafes to upscale dining spots, there's something for everyone in these vibrant foodie destinations. To help you discover the hidden gems in these areas, we've compiled a list of the top-rated locally owned restaurants in Utah County and Salt Lake County.

Top Locally Owned Restaurants in Utah County:

Savage Fish - Orem, Utah - Traditional Hawaiian Poke - Savage Fish offers a variety of different traditional Hawaiian poke bowls, full of the highest-grade fish you can buy!

Communal -  Provo, Utah - Farm-to-table restaurant - Features a constantly evolving menu of seasonal dishes made from local ingredients. Their family-style plates are perfect for sharing, and their rustic ambiance adds to the dining experience.

Black Sheep Cafe - Provo, Utah - Modern southwestern restaurant - Serves up delicious dishes inspired by the cuisine of Utah's Navajo and Hopi tribes. The dishes here are creative and full of flavor, with a focus on locally sourced and organic ingredients.

Bombay House - Provo, Utah - Indian Restaurant - Eating at Bombay House is about much more than just food. It is a complete cultural submersion for all five of your senses. The rich aroma of exotic spices; the rhythms and songs of an ancient culture; warm, intimate lighting; vibrant murals portraying scenes from Indian life and legend.

Station 22 - Provo, Utah - American-style diner - Offers a range of classic comfort foods, including biscuits and gravy, mac and cheese, and chicken fried steak. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable, making it a popular spot for locals.

Good Thyme Eatery - This health-conscious restaurant in Orem specializes in salads, wraps, and bowls made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. They also offer a range of smoothies and juices, as well as vegan and gluten-free options.

Bam Bam's BBQ - This family-owned restaurant in Orem is the go-to spot for delicious barbecue in Utah County. Their meats are slow-cooked to perfection, and their sides and sauces are all made in-house.

Art City Trolley - Springville, Utah - American-style diner - is housed in a converted trolley car and offers classic burgers, sandwiches, and shakes.

Holy Taco - Orem, Utah - Traditional street tacos, opening a new restaurant in Pleasant Grove soon!

Top Locally Owned Restaurants in Salt Lake County:

The Copper Onion - Downtown Salt Lake City - Contemporary American restaurant - offers a seasonal menu that highlights local ingredients. The dishes here are inventive and beautifully presented, and the wine list is extensive.

Red Iguana - Salt Lake City - Beloved Mexican restaurant - Famous for its mole sauces, which are made fresh daily. The portions are generous, and the atmosphere is lively and colorful.

Takashi - Downtown Salt Lake City - Top-notch sushi -  The menu features a variety of traditional and creative rolls, as well as other Japanese dishes like ramen and udon noodles.

Pago - Salt Lake City, Utah - farm-to-table - This restaurant offers a menu of seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The dishes here are beautifully prepared and presented, and the wine list is carefully curated.

Beltex Meats- Salt Lake City - Lunch Sandwiches - This artisanal butcher shop and restaurant offers a range of house-cured meats and charcuterie, as well as sandwiches and other lunchtime fare. The meats here are of the highest quality, and the flavors are rich and complex.

Oak Wood Fire Kitchen - Draper, Utah - Neighborhood craft kitchen, serve amazing wood-fire pizza!

Sunday's Best - Sandy, Utah - American Brunch - offering an assortment of unique takes on some breakfast classics.

White Horse - Downtown SLC - a modern American Brasserie - serves everything from bar snacks to shared plates.

MAKANMAKAN - Sandy, Utah - Indonesian Food - From a simple thought of treasuring family tradition and inspired by street food under one roof, we invite you to explore!

Whether you're a local or just passing through, these locally owned restaurants in Utah County and Salt Lake County are definitely worth checking out. From BBQ to sushi, and everything in between, these spots are sure to satisfy your appetite and leave you with a memorable dining experience.