Mary’s Fab 5: Bar Scenes

Winter 2021

Utah

56

Column: Mary’s fab 5

Mary’s Fab 5: Bar Scenes

After being locked up in the house for so many months and living on their own cooking skills, everyone was sooo ready to be dining out again! However, I realized that it was not just the food we were craving but the social aspect of gathering with people. Laughing and loving with friends was what I missed. I didn’t need so much a good restaurant but rather a great bar and grub where I could stay and talk and dance and feel connected to my world again. So, what are the best bar scenes in Utah? Here are my top five.

BY MARY CRAFTS

1. laKe eFFeCt

Lake Effect 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 the Dante’s Inferno. The combination of rum and serrano peppers is sure to put some hair on your chest. They serve fabulous food for brunch, lunch, dinner, and late night when a scrumptious charcuterie board is all you need. Live music on the weekends.

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 and hazelnut-dusted calamari, and my all-time favorite, short rib poutine. If you haven’t had poutine, you’re in for a treat with this Canadian creation made with tender pulled short rib, melted cheese curd, mornay sauce, and crispy fries—pure heaven with any beer or cocktail. 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, Club90 offers classic bar grub such as nachos, wings, burgers, and sandwiches. The cover charge is only $5 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. With free line dancing lessons, Texas Hold’em poker, and live band karaoke, it’s a great place to let your hair down, no matter your age!

4. the CliFF Dining puB

This 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. Ifyou 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 fora 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 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 Park City Main Street. This live music venue has a classy atmosphere and two great bars. Charcuterie boards, desserts, healthy snacks, and specialty coffees are available from Park City Desserts & Coffee, located directly above this subterranean music hall. Preorder, pick up, and bring it with you to the show. It’s best to go online and purchase tickets in advance. They offer a variety of options including general admission, mezzanine seating, and multiple VIP areas. They are open on Friday and Saturday nights, as well as for special engagements throughout the month. If you love craft cocktails, you’re going to love this place!

Here’s to breaking bread and toasting to you soon at one of these favorite hot spots of mine!

Winter 2021

57

Utah