Best of Utah 2009: Food & Drink

BEST ITALIAN Cucina Toscana On a nightly basis, the great Italian restaurateur/maestro Valter Nassi orchestrates a symphony of fresh flavors and a ballet of superb serviceall hitting the operatic high-notes that we know as Cucina Toscana: City Weekly readers' pick for best Italian restaurant. From the ethereal homemade gnocchi and handcrafted risotto to the sublime house specialty piccata di pollo al limone, we're not even sure you could find better Italian fare in Italy. One thing is certain, you'll never find a more welcoming host than Nassi. 307 W. Pierpont Ave, Salt Lake City, 801-328-3463, Cucina-Toscana.com 2. Lugano 3. Fratelli's Ristorante

BEST BUDGET LUNCH Moochie's Meatballs & More The house that Moochie's built was laid with a foundation of meatballs and grilled Philly steak. And while these two sub options are still Moochie's bedrock, any true gourmand on a budget can you tell that Moochie's wallet friendly lunch menu extends beyond these two divine sandwiches. Even taking on just half a meatball or Philly cheese sandwich will provide an ample amount of messy lunchtime gorging and only set you back between $5 to $6. But that's not counting other great $6 lunch options like the gi-normous Reuben or the tuna grinder loaded with a full can of tuna. For the truly frugal who want to try a twist on the classic Moochies' meatball, how about the macaroni or potato salad with a hearty scoop 'o meatball on top ($4)? That's some mighty fine lunch on a budget. 232 E. 800 South, Salt Lake City, 801-364-0232, MoochiesMeatballs.com 2. Blue Plate Diner 3. Himalayan Kitchen

BEST ATMOSPHERE
Caff Molise
The ambience and atmosphere at Caffe Molise change with the seasons. During winter, it's a cozy, warm spot to enjoy chef/owner Fred Moesinger's bistecca with grilled mushrooms and a glass of hearty Italian Barolo. When the weather turns warm, the Caff Molise action moves outside to the garden patio which surrounds a flowing fountain, where lighter dishes like pomodori e mozzarella are in order. Every Friday nightregardless of the seasonthe Caff Molise atmosphere is charged with jazz, courtesy of the Jon Flanders Trio.
55 W. 100 South, Salt Lake City, 801-364-8833, CaffeMolise.com
2. Log Haven
3. Fratelli's Ristorante

BEST BAKERY (BREAD)
Great Harvest
With more than 20 bakeries in 43 states, Great Harvest must be doing something right. Of the 10 Utah branches, if a recent lunchtime visit to the Draper location is to judge by, local operations are continuing the franchise's national success story of selling honey whole wheat bread and other delicious loaves to American bread lovers. Without additives or preservatives, the breads are baked on premises and range in flavor from cheddar garlic to cranberry walnut. They also offer dipping oils and upscale jams, along with scones, biscottis and chocolate-chip cookies. With Harvest box lunches and even bread gift options, any bread lover's needs are more than fulfilled.
Multiple locations, GreatHarvestUtah.com
2. Crumb Bros.
3. Java Cow

BEST CUPCAKES
Mini's
Stepping into the quaint little Mini's bakery with its pink candy-striped lobby and Audrey Hepburn themed dcor, one might imagine somehow they've been shrunk and transported inside a 1950's Barbie dollhouse. And while the funky retro feel is very inviting, it's the decadent gourmet cupcakes that really draw the crowds. Mini's makes a mean cupcake, and even at $1.75 to $2 for a mini cupcake, you're getting a lot for your taste buds. The bakery does a lot of wedding business and can custom build the perfect cupcakes for your special day. If the femme fabulous ambience of the place doesn't jive with all you macho dudes, why not stop by for one of the tougher daily specials like the Monday Lemon Drop cupcake, soaked in Citron Vodka and frosted in lemon creme cheese frosting. For the more daring, try the Tuesday Margaritaville speciala fresh lime cupcake soaked in tequila.
14 E. 800 South, Salt Lake City, 801-363-0608, Mini-Cupcakes.com

BEST HIGH-ALTITUDE SUSHI
The Aerie Sushi Bar
The Jimmy Walker roll is Dyn-O-Mite! But then, so is everything else at the Aerie Sushi Bar, perched atop Snowbird's Cliff Lodge. Magnificent mountain views match the marvelous sushi and sashimi, artfully constructed by chef Otto Blum and his top-notch team of sushi artists. Put yourself in their hands and order "omakase" style, which means to "protect" or "entrust." You entrust yourself to the sushi chef by basically telling him, "Feed me!" Maybe you'll be treated to thin-sliced sashimi from a live Diver scallop or the Aerie's bodacious three-way Wagyu beef dish.
Level 10, Cliff Lodge, Snowbird Resort, Little Cottonwood Canyon, 801-933-2160, Snowbird.com

BEST BAKERY (SWEETS)
Gourmandise The Bakery
It's hard to imagine a greater pleasure on a warm summer afternoon than a visit to the downtown European-style Gourmandise The Bakery for a coffee and something to soothe that sweet-tooth craving. Gourmandise's shelves all but groan under the weight of delicious cakes, cookies, cheesecakes, scones and tarts. The problem, as ever, is making a choice. As you perambulate up and down the front counter, gazing at the saliva-enducing flaky croissants and the classic Chocalate Decadence and Strawberry Chantilly torte, not to mention robust muffins, it's almost painful to choose. Once you've made your pick and ordered coffee, all that awaits is a chair outside on the hedged-off patio and the opportunity to pamper yourself with dreams of getaways to Paris or Barcelona as you dig into your just dessert.
250 S. 300 East, Salt Lake City, 801-328-3330, Gourmandies.com
2. Carlucci's
3. So Cupcake

BEST CENTRAL UTAH CAFE
Farlaino's Caf
Most peopleespecially those zipping to Lake Powellonly see Price through the rear-view mirror. They really should stop and at least visit the nice dinosaur museum. Or hit Main Street and drop into Farlaino's for a tremendous breakfast or lunch. Home to thriving Greek and Italian communities, the Price area still holds some traditions true, and Farlaino's is one of them. Enjoy heaping servings of your American favorites with a smattering of European flair like its homemade Italian sausage, courtesy of owner Sam Farlaino's secret family recipe. Ah, the good old days.
87 W. Main, Price, 435-637-9217

BEST BREAKFAST
Blue Plate Diner
If you can never get enough of breakfastif you love omelets, Benedicts, griddle cakes, biscuits, huevos rancheros and breakfast burritosjust remember, Blue Plate serves it all day here, seven days a week. They champion all breakfast causes: From those who insist breakfast is lapping up crunchy bacon and greasy sausage to those who favor eggs and home fries to those who swear by tofu and veggies, all will find something to delight and awaken the taste buds. And, yep, the patio on a cool summer morn does make the breakfast world go 'round.
2041 S. 2100 East, Salt Lake City, 801-463-1151, MySpace.com/BluePlateDiner
2. Ruth's Diner
3. Eggs in the City

BEST INEXPENSIVE
Blue Plate Diner
Back in 1930s, the blue-plate special was a low-price meal served on a blue plate with dividers. Substitutions were not allowed, but it was a "square for two bits." So, let's clear things up. You won't find divided blue plates at Salt Lake's Blue Plate Diner, but you will find delicious daily specials. The friendly wait staff will allow substitutions with your order, and you'll likely pay more than two bits for your meal. But you won't need a federal subsidy to enjoy a packed menu of omelets, sandwiches, salads, burgers, chicken-fried steak, homemade meatloaf and fish & chips. Blue Plate is the diner to get us through these vexing economic times, which, for many, seem like the '30s all over again.
2041 S. 2100 East, Salt Lake City, 801-463-1151, MySpace.com/BluePlateDiner
2. Citrus Grill
3. Caf Rio

BEST SURPRISING APPETIZER
The Dodo
"Baked cream cheese, marinated in soy sauce, breaded with toasted sesame seeds. Served with apple and Asian pear slices and crackers." Maybe it's just us, but this Dodo Restaurant starter sounds well, yucky. But nay! In fact, it's a fantastic blend of salty and sweet, creamy and crunchy, warm and cold. It's a generous serving that easily kicks off a dinner for four, keeping you occupied while the chef prepares signature Dodo entrees like honey-baked salmon, Cajun chicken Alfredo, and decadent beef Stroganoff.
152 S. 400 West, Salt Lake City, 801-456-2473; 1355 E. 2100 South, Sugar House, 801-486-2473; TheDodo.net

BEST COWBOY CHIC
Holy Smoke BBQ & Grill
Stroll into Layton's Holy Smoke BBQ & Grill and you'll think you've been transported onto a Wild West movie set. The joint is decorated to the nines with Western paraphernalia: saddles, cowboy boots, Rifleman-style rifles, branding irons and a nice collection of arrowheads. But somehow, the dcor comes across not as kitschy, but as honoring cowboys, ranch hands, American Indians and the like. And whether you're into Old West cowboy chic or not, you'll fall in love with the scrumptious St. Louis pork spare ribs, Carolina-style pulled pork, Texas beef brisket and Memphis-style barbecued chicken. It's all finger-licking great.
855 Heritage Park Blvd, Layton, 801-614-5011, HolySmokeBBQ-Grill.com

BEST LATE-NIGHT The Belgian Waffle Midnight isn't for hoity-toity fare; it's the time to dive into the stuff that only an old-school diner can offer. Open 24 hours a day, this Midvale stalwart serves up a menu with something for every late-night appetite. Dig into a juicy burger or classic sandwich or share a banana split with a friend. Or if an after-hours breakfast is just what the doctor ordered, take the restaurant's name at face value and enjoy a plate of waffles or a massive Denver omelet. Any time is the right time; the lights are always on. 7331 S. 900 East, Midvale, 801-566-5731 2. Molca Salsa 3. Dee's

BEST BREW PUB
Squatters
They're green and organic, they're saving the planet, their beers are slammin'just a little free-range freestyle; Squatters would approve. Squatters Pub & Brewery is too classic to ever go out of style, as evidenced by countless Best of Utah wins with our readers over the years. The urban energy crackles here even during the slower hours, and food is on par with the impressive array of internationally awarded brews. You're nobody until you've been seen hoisting one at Squatters. Also, slammin' the good times in Park City.
147 W. 300 South, Salt LakeCity, 801-363-2739; 1900 Park Ave., 435-649-9868; Squatters.com
2. Red Rock Brewing Co.
3. Desert Edge

BEST ASSEMBLY-LINE PERFORMANCE
Big City Soup
It's a sight to behold on a cold, rainy day when the lunch customer line snakes the entire length of the restaurant, and Big City Soup servers work their stations in-tune like the sections of a symphony orchestra. Six to eight workers assemble an orderfrom ladling delicious homemade soups to doling out tasty bread to ringing up at the cash register. Thanks to precision hospitality, the line moves quicker than most fast-food joints in town. 235 S. 400 West, Salt Lake City, 801-333-7687, BigCitySoup.com BEST OF BOTH WORLDS Beehive Cheese Co. Even lactose-intolerant foodies have a hard time passing up a chunk of the local cheesemakers' Barely Buzzed. From Bite 1, we've been hooked on the ingenious, melt-in-your mouth combination of lavender, espresso and first-class-grade whole milk from Ogden's Wadeland Dairy. Really, it's the perfect replacement for your typical run-of-the-mill dairy/caffeine fix. Best of all, it won't spill all over your suit on the way to work.
2440 E. 6600 South, Uintah, 801-476-0900, BeehiveCheese.com

BEST HOLE IN THE WALL
Musumeci's Italian Deli
There's a saying that restaurant success is all about three things: location, location, location. Well, a crappy locationsandwiched in a corridor of a State Street office buildinghasn't kept ravenous customers from finding Musumeci's Italian Deli, an out-of-the-way hole-in-the-wall eatery with big flavor. Sicilian by way of Brooklyn, Musumeci dishes out hearty New York-style deli fare like veal parmigiana, hot pastrami sandwiches, manicotti, meatball sandwiches alla pizzaiola, sausage and peppers, custom-made subs and moreall with an attitude and style that's hard to come by outside the Big Apple. Put it this way: Don't even think of asking for mustard on your mortadella sandwich.
251 S. State, Salt Lake City, 801-596-2562

BEST BUSINESS LUNCH
Caf Trio
For all those hardworking corporate-types cooped up in office parks and business hotels of Cottonwood Heights, lunch at Caf Trio is somewhat akin to finding a desert oasis for the parched and sun-stroked. For starters, the food at Triofrom wood-fired oven-baked rosemary flatbread and the panzanella salad to the pizzas, pastas and paninisis all scrumptious. And at its downtown location, the Italian restaurant is famous for keeping things cool on its inviting patio by way of its misters and refreshing cocktails. Top it off with a plate of gourmet flatbread and you've got yourself one decadent night out. And the servers? Let's just say we know where GQ keeps its male models off-hours.
680 S. 900 East, 801-533-8746; 6405 S. 3000 East, 801-944-8746, Salt Lake City, TrioDining.com
2. Bambara
3. Market Street

BEST CORNED BEEF
MacCool's Public House
MacCool's steams its corned beef brisket as opposed to braising or boiling it. Co-owner Scott Schlisman says that the steaming process allows him to best control the cooking temperature of the meat, treating it with tender, loving care. If you just throw your brisket into a pot of boiling water, the meat tightens up and gets really tough. MacCool's also cooks its corned beef for about 8 hours, resulting in ridiculously delicate, tasty meat that's damned near erotic.
1400 S. Foothill Drive, No. 166, Salt Lake City, 801-582-3111

BEST CHILI CON CARNE
Boston Deli
There are plenty of reasons to love the Boston Deli, starting with the scrumptious Albacore tuna sandwich and chicken club. And then there's all the funky musical paraphernalia scattered about the place, toolike the drum set hanging from the ceiling. But who'd have thought you'd also find the best chili in town at Boston Deli? This ain't Texas-style chili con carne; this version has yummy, tender beans mingling with tasty beef and a secret concoction of spices that's ever so appealing. Plus, you get crackers and bread on the side to sop up every last luscious drop.
9 Exchange Place, Salt Lake City, 801-355-2146, BostonDeli.com

BEST CHINESE
The Mandarin
How does a restaurant owned by a Greek family in Bountiful wind up winning the award for best Chinese restaurant? Well, it helps to stack the deck (or the woks) with Chinese chefs from Hong Kong and San Francisco who prepare authentic regional Chinese cuisine of the type you'd normally need a Chinatown to find. Along with traditional dishes like Peking duck and Kung Pao shrimp, you'll also find at Mandarin more modern flavors such as Velvet chicken with gooseberries and pine nuts or lamb with an Asian-Mediterranean fusion sauce. And unlike most Chinese restaurants, Mandarin has a winning wine list.
348 E. 900 North, Bountiful, 801-298-2406, MandarinUtah.com
2. Little World
3. Hong Kong Tea House

BEST ECLECTIC THAI
Chanon Thai
The secret is out: Chanon Thai tops the list of local foodies' favorite authentic eateries. Since opening its modest doors three years ago, the little-cafe-that-could has achieved a loyal following among diners who prefer their Thai authentic, spicy and, well, a little offbeat. From the mismatched tableware to menus complete with detailed nutritional facts and homeopathic trivia (lemongrass is a diuretic; kaffir lime leaf's benefit is ... as an appetizer), to small staff of affable servers who chuckle good-naturedly when you confess you can't quite handle the higher end of their 1-5 spice scale, Chanon charms and satisfies every time. Even being oddly closed on Saturdays, other evenings are incredibly busy, proof that this place is well worth the wait.
278 E. 900 South, Salt Lake City, 801-532-1177

BEST PUPUSAS
El Viroleo
This local eatery offers a full menu of authentic El Salvadoran dishes for lunch and dinner but they're famous for their pupusasthick tortillas cooked up with special stuffings like beans, eggs, pork and cheese. These delectable treats also make for an affordable lunch. Try the pupusa with loroca (a tasty vine flower bud from Central America) for $1.50 or the chicharron, stuffed with savory shredded pork for only $1.75. Top it off with a tasty El Salvadoran Super Cola Shampan (it's the champagne of Latin American orange sodas!) and you've got a delicious light lunch for about $5.
471 W. 800 South, Salt Lake City, 801-595-7021

BEST COFFEE HOUSE
Coffee Garden
Vast amounts of the City Weekly staff's total caffeine intake is supplied by the Coffee Garden's Main Street location, so we can fully get behind this readers' pick. But we don't overlook the original 9th & 9th store's unique charms; each location has a distinct personalityMain Street's is literary and incisive; 9th & 9th is cinematic and expansive. Whatever their Myers-Briggs scores, however, each has earned places near and dear to the hearts of Salt Lake City's caffeine junkies, long may we jitter.
878 E. 900 South, 801-355-3425; 254 S. Main, 801-364-0768, Salt Lake City
2. Beans & Brews
3. Alchemy Coffee

BEST SEASONAL SETTING Diva's Cupcakes & Coffee Whenever it is a damp, drizzly November in your soul, Diva's domed greenhouse is the destination of choice. Its lush interior, perfumed by narcissus and enlivened by gurgling water, is a restorative space for coffee, scones or a bowl of soup on a bleak day. In spring, when the world is mud-luscious and puddle-wonderful, the adjacent patio invites you into the sun for a boost of serotonin and perhaps a chicken-salad sandwich and one of Diva's signature gourmet cupcakes. There's also plenty of interior space, clean and well-lighted, offering the choice of tavern tables or library room with comfy chairs. 1560 E. 3300 South, Salt Lake City, 801-485-0619, DivasCupcakes.com

BEST PLACE TO PROPOSE OVER A BOWL OF CHILI
The Cabin
Located in the Canyons' Grand Summit Hotel lobby, The Cabin's fine dining features eclectic Western dishes including venison, elk and bisonall served in cabin coziness. It's so sweet and intimate at the Cabin, as flames flicker in the fireplace and candlelight illuminates your table, it would seem the perfect place to "pop the question" even if you're just sucking up a spicy bowl of bison chili after a day of skiing or hiking in the mountains. It's romantic in the old West style. It also provides an eye-popping wine list as well as fine whiskeys and scotchesshould liquid courage be required.
4000 Canyons Resort Drive, Park City, 435-615-8060, TheCanyons.com

BEST EAST MILLCREEK COMFORT FOOD
Stella Grill
Something is happening in the 'burbs we like to call bistro-ization. A number of hip little eateries are sprouting up and many, like Stella, are proving you can be hip and sleek and modern and survive outside of downtown. Stop at Stella any weeknight and catch a large group of Red Hat Society ladies kibitzing over soup and sandwiches, parents with their kids downing enchiladas and fettuccine, date-night couples savoring Morgan Valley lamb and mashed potatoes and even a few singletons with a good book, a juicy burger and a beer. It's a warm and inviting little joint that may just prove that the time for little bistros in the 'burbs has come at last.
4291 S. 900 East, Salt Lake City, 801-288-0051

BEST DELI
Tony Caputo's Market & Deli
Some of us remember a time pre-Caputo's. It was not the worst of times, but it was not the best of times, either. Today, it's hard to imagine downtown Salt Lake City without Tony Caputo's ode to all things edible: his magnificent market and delicatessen across from Pioneer Park. From high-end Venezuelan chocolates and fresh Italian truffles to hearty Italian subs, heroes and hoagies, Tony Caputo's Market & Deli delivers a flavor-filled urban punch to our palates. And, not one to rest on his laurels, Tony recently installed Utah's best cheese cave. Like a fine Timex timepiece, he just keeps on tickin.'
314 W. 300 South, Salt Lake City 801-531-8669, CaputosDeli.com
2. Granato's
3. Grove Market & Deli

BEST SALADS Oasis Cafe The Oasis Caf has long been a hub for people who care about what they eat. Salads here are sophisticated greenery to say the least. There's the traditional spinach salad made wonderful with gorgonzola cheese and candied pine nuts. The Mediterranean grilled salad combines Yukon gold potatoes, onions, olives, tomatoes, feta cheese and hummus with various fish or meat. The Imperial features crab cakes and a sticky rice roll with your greens. But to really impress yourself or others, order the roasted beet tower topped with arugula and goat cheese. It's "salad elevated." 151 S. 500 East, Salt Lake City, 801-322-0404, OasisCafeSLC.com 2. Zuppa's 3. Red Rock Brewing Co.

BEST SMOKE GETS IN YOUR EYES
Spencer's Smokin' Grill, Park City
"Everything tastes better when you're high..." goes the motto at Spencer's Smokin' Grill. But don't call the narcsthey're talking about the Park City altitude, of course. The secret to this terrific BBQ joint is smoke, which you can begin to smell blocks from the restaurant. The pork at Spencer's is smoked for 16 freakin' hours before Mark and Susan Spencer deem it ready for your plate. And the secretthough not a secret for much longerto the bodacious smoked pork, sausage and salmon is the wood they use: oak. Once you taste the cookin' at Spencer's, you'll never utter the words mesquite, applewood or cherrywood again! Oak is where it's at.
1890 Bonanza Drive, Park City, 435-645-8483, SpencersSmokinGrill.com

BEST FRENCH
Paris Bistro & Zinc Bar
In Paris, corner bistros are as ubiquitous as French poodles. Here in Utah, they're more rare than finding cassoulet on a restaurant menu. Merci! then, to chef/owner Eric DeBonis for bringing a slice of the City of Lights to Salt Lake City, with his Paris Bistro & Zinc Bar. Menu items like escargot, duck confit with Puy lentils and watercress, and steak tartare with pommes frites help give Francophiles a reason to go on living. And The Paris' exquisitely selected wine list holds many, many treasures from France and elsewhere to round out a French-themed evening.
1500 S. 1500 East, Salt Lake City, 801-486-5585, TheParis.net
2. La Caille
3. Franck's

BEST TUBESTEAK
Johnniebeefs
Thanks to John, the namesake owner of Johnniebeef's in Midvale, you don't have to fight the crowds at a ball game to get your lips around a world-class hot dog. Fenway Franks notwithstanding, you might never taste a better tubesteak than Johnniebeefs' classic Chicago Dog. You can have it your way, of course, but the traditional Windy City wonder comes with mustard, onions, green relish, cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, pickles and celery salt on a steamed poppy seed bun. Order a pair because you're going to want seconds.
7194 S. Union Park Ave., Midvale, 801-352-0372, JohnnieBeefs.com

BEST CHILE VERDE
Tarahumara
Named for the native Tarahumara people of Chihuahua, Mexico, this terrific little Midway eatery dishes up some of the best Mexican fare you'll find in the state. There's a salsa bar with more than 20 different homemade salsas to complement dishes like pollo asado, barbacoa, mole poblano, and seared scallops in passion fruit & tomatillo sauce, But the real bell-ringer at Tarahumara is the slow-braised pork chile verdepork so tender you can eat it with a spoon. Redolent of Anaheim chiles, this is truly championship chile verde.
380 E. Main, Midway, 435-654-3465, Tarahumara.biz

BEST FUSION
Shabu
At Park City's high-energy Shabu restaurant, owners/brothers Kevin and Robert Valaika characterize what they do as "Freestyle Asian Cuisine." It's a creative fusion of traditional Asian ingredients and flavors such as Mongolian shabu shabu with contemporary culinary techniques in a new wave ambiance. So at Shabu, it's not frowned upon to order fresh escolar nigiri, dip it in truffle-ponzu sauce, and wash it down with a Shabu signature Japanese Julip cocktail. Or, for the ultimate seafood fusion fare, try the Freestyle Sea Bass, which is steamed and infused with ginger and chives, then brushed with black bean and garlic paste, creating its own natural broth.
333 Main, Park City, 435-645-SAKE, ShabuPC.com
2. Faustina
3. Thaifoon

BEST GREEK
Aristo's
Since opening in 2003, Aristo's has elevated the Greek dining experience in Salt Lake City. For too long, souvlaki and dolmathes have been presented as fast food, comfort food and coffee shop fare. Where was a Greek restaurant that offered an upscale setting for going out to dinner, i.e., table service; beer, wine and liquor; weekly live music and fabulous, authentic Greek specialties such as keftethes, octopus and marides? Now, we have the answer in Aristo's; life is no longer a Greek tragedy.
224 S. 1300 East, Salt Lake City, 801-581-0888, AristosGreekRestaurant.com
2. The Other Place
3. Greek Souvlaki

BEST COFFEE STALWART
Salt Lake Roasting Company
In a town where you'd think coffee shops have no future, it turns out they have quite a past. At least 20 years of a past at the Salt Lake Roasting Company, the venture that basically kicked off the city's modern-day coffee house movement. Its exceptional roasts make SLRC the brand to give as gifts and to buy for personal consumption. But best of all is simply joining friends for a fresh cup of coffee and a tasty bakery treat at either of its two locations. It was the hip place to gather back in the day, and remains so today, even with a burlap bagful of new competitors.
320 E. 400 South, Salt Lake City, 801-363-7572; Library Square, 210 E. 400 South, Salt Lake City, 801-532-0450; Roasting.com

BEST FORKED TONGUE
Argentine Corner
Inadequately cooked cow's tongue is an unattractive, decidedly chewy morsel. But boiled for several hours, then sliced wafer-thin and served with a garlic and parsley vinaigrette, it's a culinary jewel. Clearfield's Argentine Corner is one of the few proponents of this particular art. Served with crusty white bread while you wait for the chef to fire up his barbecue, it's the perfect starter, melting like butter on your taste buds.
442 N. Main, Clearfield, 801-773-9909, ArgentineCorner.com

BEST INDIAN
Bombay House
As the pioneer of Indian food in Utah, 16-year-old Bombay House has a special place in Salt Lake City's heart. It's tandoori oven-prepared lamb and chicken dishes, along with their naan breads, have long been a key staple of their menu. But the Bombay is nothing if not adventurous when it comes to broadening the palate of curry-loving Utahns. One recent addition to the menu, the delightfully named Bollywood Chicken, includes an intriguing concoction of pineapples, ginger and coconut milk. Along with its classic fare such as lamb saag and Rag's chicken, batter-fried and sauteed with mangos and onions, Bollywood chicken reflects the kind of ambition that helps keep Bombay top of mind when pining for a curry.
2731 E. Parley's Way, Salt Lake City, 801-581-0222; 463 N. University Ave., 801-373-6677, Provo; BombayHouse.com
2. Himalayan Kitchen
3. Tandoor

BEST DOWNTOWN EGG-SALAD SANDWICH
The Robin's Nest
This popular downtown eatery is packed every day around noonbut even the frenetic lunchtime crowd can't obscure The Robin's Nest's warm, inclusive atmosphere. Sandwiches are prepared to order, and each one comes with a portion of the Nest's specialty orzo salad (it's got basil, pine nuts, olive oiland something else ... a secret ingredient management refuses to divulge). But if you're ever walking by and see a placard announcing egg salad day, don't. Don't walk by, that iswalk right in and order. You'll be glad you did. The fact that you can't get that egg salad just any day of the week only adds to its elusive allure.
311 S. Main, Salt Lake City, 801-466-6378

BEST HUNGER FOR SURVIVAL
One World Everybody Eats
This downtown cafe's business model might have made yesterday's greedy MBA execs laughfeed customers a good, wholesome meal, and ask them to pay what they think the meal is worth. Since then, the world's economy has tanked, and restaurants everywhere at bracing for a rough year. Even One World had to face growing pains and take stock after much of its staff left. Yet, One World, with its idealistic vision, compassion and down-to-Earth practicality, is still here. And it may represent just what the world needs to get back on track.
41 S. 300 East, OneWorldEverybodyEats.com

BEST WESTERN VALLEY RESTAURANT Copper Creek Pub & Grub It's a simple place with a simple plan: Good, inexpensive American chow served up with a big-ass stein of beer (also pretty cheap). Copper Creek recently opened a Park City location, but it was West Valley where City Weekly first fell in love with the "Full Monte" Cristo sandwich, turkey, ham and Swiss battered and deep-fried, powdered lightly with sugar and served with a side of raspberry jamthat item alone brought us back to WVC more than once; there are dozens of others just as delectable. 3451 S. 5600 West, West Valley City, 801-417-0051; 825 Main, Park City, 435-615-9900, CopperCreekPubAndGrub.com 2. Q4U 3. India Fusion

BEST SLICE O' PIE
Left Fork Grill
At Left Fork Grill, owner/chef Jeff Masten's homemade pies are often sold out by noon or shortly thereafter. So we advise getting there early, like Masten does. Jeff Masten begins making his pies and home-style soups from scratch early in the morning, before the 7 a.m. breakfast service begins. Each and every last pie that Masten bakes is a reason to go on living, but the strawberry, banana-cream, and blackberry pies are truly to die for.
68 W. 3900 South, Murray, 801-266-4322

BEST TRULY FRENCH FRIES
Les Madeleines
Most foodies are already hip to Les Madeleines' out-of-this-world pastries, namely the recent Food Network-approved Kouing-aman, a rich, buttery pastry whose devoted fans snatch up without pausing to peruse the cafe's lunch menu. Might we suggest leaving some room in your stomach for an order of absolutely superb pommes frites? Golden and dusted just so with a combination of addictive but hardly overpowering spices, the fries are crispy on the outside, dense on the inside revealing authentic potato with every bite. Imagine that. Fries that taste like potatoes and not a vat of grease. And, in keeping with Les Madeleine's attention to detail, each order comes with a side of dipping sauce: half-ketchup, half-mayonaisse giving diners the option of eating fries as the French intended, or as Utahns prefer.
216 E. 500 South, Salt Lake City, 801-355-2294, Les-Madeleines.com

BEST MURRAY SUSHI
Yamasaki
You don't need to head downtown or up the canyon for fresh, innovative Japanese fare. Many Murray residents can practically walk to Yamasaki for sushi and cooked dishes on par with more high-profile Utah restaurants of its kind. Service is friendly and efficient, with menu items like the Nemo roll and sushi arriving at the table in perfect waves.
6055 S. 900 East, Murray, 801-293-7115

BEST JAPANESE
Takashi
Just mention the name Takashi to Utah foodies and the reaction is usually somewhere between fawning and drooling. This downtown restaurant offers a tantalizing blend of old and new, with updates on traditional Japanese fare that often leads to fierce cravings satisfied only with an order of clams in red curry-coconut broth or a comforting bowl of agedashi tofu. Even sushi slaves who like it raw make room for a little of the hot stuff. In Takashi's hands, any temperature is the right one.
18 W. Market St., Salt Lake City, 801-519-9595
2. Kyoto
3. Naked Fish

BEST SUSHI
Takashi
The only downside to eating sushi at Takashi is realizing that while in theory it makes sense to order every item on the menu, neither your stomach nor your wallet would appreciate the all-in approach. A more ideal method of sampling each of the restaurant's insanely fresh, delicious and inventive rolls, nigiri and sashimi is to simply return again and again for bites of buttery soft aji, basil-filled Easy Rider and jalapeno-flecked Ramon's Roll. Your waistline will thank you.
18 W. Market St., Salt Lake City, 84101, 801-519-9595
2. Tsunami
3. Happy Sumo

BEST BLUE-COLLAR GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH
Lamb's Grill Caf
Yeah, yeah, go ahead and spend $12 on some uptown fad version of a grilled cheese sandwichsomething with six kinds of cheese (brie, goat and god knows what else) on rosemary-infused French bread. But the real thing, the pinnacle of comfort in a sandwich, resides at Main Street's mainstay dining spot, Lamb's Grill Cafe. You can order cheddar or Swiss on whole wheat, white or rye bread. The sandwich comes expertly fried, buttery and crisp. (And hooraycut diagonally!) The cheese (choose cheddar) oozes from the crusts and melts in your mouth. It comes with potato chips, but if you're serious about your love affair with fat, order Lamb's fries instead. Ask for them crispy and eat them while they're good and hot.
169 S. Main, Salt Lake City, 801-364-7166, LambsGrill.com

BEST CANYON CAFE
Springville Golf Club Caf
As greasy spoons go, this caf serves a mean cheeseburger. What sets it apart is its locationand the view that affords. Smack at the mouth of Grindstone Canyon, it also stands just before the entrance to the wonders of Hobble Creek itself. Beyond the delights of the Springville Golf Club, which it faithfully serves throughout the year, lies the glory of the rising canyon. Locals proclaim autumn is the best time of the year to truly revel in the views from the caf of the pine and brush blessed mountains. But whether it's the darting swallows that live in nests above the patio or the bear that last year killed a buck on the golf course, nature, it seems, is right before your eyes.
East Hobble Creek Canyon Road, Springville, 435-489-6717

BEST ROAD TRIP DINER
Road Island
This 1939 diner was actually relocated from Rhode Island to Utah in 2007. It was a primo diner in its day and is still a stunning tribute to the art deco design of its time. Known for omelets, homemade cinnamon rolls, pancakes, ham and hash brownseven the coffee is exceptional. If this little diner could make the trek all the way from New England to Utah, then a 40 minute drive from Salt Lake City to Oakley is a cinch. And the trip back in time is pretty swell, too, Peggy Sue.
981 W. Weber Canyon Road, Oakley, 435-783-3467, RoadIslandDiner.com

BEST WOOD-OVEN PIZZA
Zucca Trattoria
To create one of Zucca's authentic Napoli-style pizzas like the marvelous Margherita, with perfectly charred crust bubbles, you're going to have to import a 1,000 degree Valoriani wood-fired pizza oven from Italyand then know what to do with it. Zucca's chef/owner Elio Scanu certainly knows what to do with his imported wood-fired pizza oven. His pizzas are topped with nothing but first-class ingredients like fresh buffala mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes and then cooked to pizza perfection in a flash. You won't find a better pizza pie this side of Napoli.
1479 E. 5600 South, South Ogden, 801-475-7077, MyZucca.com

BEST MEXICAN
Red Iguana
At this pointafter what seems like decades of "Best of" awards for the Red Iguana, the only shocker would be if it didn't win the Best Mexican restaurant category. Which just goes to show that the Cardenas family is as beloved here in Utah as it is time-tested. The guys from Los Lobos eat at the Red Iguana when they come to town and Guy Fieri has featured it on the Food Network's Diners, Drive-ins & Dives. Even a guy crashing his car through the front of the restaurant and creating his personal takeout window can't slow this place down. Holy mole!
736 W. North Temple, Salt Lake City, 801-322-1489, RedIguana.com
2. Blue Iguana
3. Caf Rio

BEST COOKING IN THE GARDEN
Marguerite Henderson
Salt Lake City's own Julia Child, Marguerite Henderson has made a living not only by teaching cooking, not only by publishing cookbooks, not only by catering to bigwigs, not only by opening two restaurants (one of them the Avenues' Cucina which she has sold) but essentially by doing what she loves: cooking. She is rather famous for hosting cooking classes literally in her back-yard garden with produce just plucked off the vine. Henderson reminds us that cooking is a pleasure to be savored slowly and enjoyed, but most of all, shared with others.
MargueriteHenderson.com

BEST CHICKEN PHILLY
Joni's Deli
This 20-year-old, unpretentious little sandwich shop is a great find. If you don't find it, the packed house at lunchtime will never miss you but you, on the other hand, will miss out on some of the city's best cheesesteak sandwiches. While Joni's traditional Philly cheesesteak is the stuff of legend, the chicken Philly is its modest, blushing cousin. Order it and be ready for a veritable bomb: a fresh-baked roll encasing grilled chicken and veggies topped off with melted cheese, all designed to explode in your mouth (and your hands if you're not careful). A lunch hour spent here cannot be deducted from your life (but it will be added onto your cholesterol).
52 E. 1700 South, Salt Lake City, 801-486-6687

BEST FOOD PYRAMID PIZZA Tin Roof Grill At Sandy's Tin Roof Grill, there's a tempting array of tasty tapas like basil pesto flatbread, garlicky poached shrimp, patatas bravas, Spanish tortillas, and crispy calamari. And of course the salad, sandwiches and pasta dishes are all popular too. But if you're looking to include something from each food group into one dish, we suggest the Tin Roof Grill white bean and grill steak pizza, which comes adorned with tomatoes, red onion, and fresh basil. 9284 S. 700 East, Sandy, 801-566-5226

BEST MIDDLE-EASTERN
Mazza
If you're feeling a bit down, the falafel here will make you feel wonderful. Or a glass of Massaya wine. In fact, Mazza has been many a Salt Laker's first introduction to the wonders of Middle Eastern cuisine. We like Mazza's slow, diagonal encroachment upon the downtown area: First 15th & 15th, then 9th & 9thwhat's next, 6th & 6th? Then it's a hop, skip and a jump to 3rd & 3rd and, before you know it, there it is: the brand-spanking new Temple Square location. Well, we can dream.
1515 S. 1500 East, 801-484-9259; 912 E. 900 South, 801-521-4572, Salt Lake City, MazzaCafe.com
2. Caf Med
3. Cedars of Lebanon

BEST NEW SLC RESTAURANT
Au Naturale
When lifelong friends Doug Nelson and George Metos put their heads together to create a new restaurant, words like "fast," "healthy," "nutritious," "natural" and "delicious" kept coming up. So voila! Au Naturale serves fast (there's even a drive-thru takeout window), healthy, natural, nutritious, delicious foods like gourmet flatbread pizzas, oven-roasted fries, homemade chicken pot pie, and fresh salads to their happy, healthy customers in a lively, spotless, contemporary setting.
880 E. 2100 South, Salt Lake City, 801-466-8888, GoAuNaturale.com
2. Wild Grape
3. Naked Fish

BEST REASON TO LET THEM EAT CAKE
So Cupcake
These days, specialty cupcake shops are about as ubiquitous as drive-thru coffee shacksand why not? Their products are fun, cute and delicious. Hating cupcakes, in fact, is a bit like hating kittens. So Cupcake adds to the dome-shaped pastry's curbside appeal with a secret ingredient that even health nuts will applaud. Inspired by their daughter Celina, a bright, imaginative girl with cerebral palsy who is by every definition a "foodie," Kevin and Natalie opened the store to help people make positive choices and to demonstrate the only limitations we have are the ones we place on ourselves. If that's not enough reason to frequent So Cupcake, how about Blueberry Cake with Violet Vanilla Butter Cream Frosting & 3 Fresh Blueberries on Top?
3939 S. Highland Drive, Salt Lake City, 801-274-8300

BEST ROMANTIC
Log Haven
It feels more like a retreat than a restaurant: just a little log cabin plunked down in the middle of 40 picturesque acres of private grounds. Gorgeous canyon views give it a feeling that's both epic and intimate, whether you're nestled inside during the winter or enjoying the outdoor patio during the spring. And that's before we even begin discussing the food from chef Dave Jones, full of local and organic ingredients and complemented by an award-winning wine list. For a wedding, an engagement, an anniversary or "just because," Log Haven delivers the total package.
6451 E. Mill Creek Canyon, Salt Lake City, 801-272-8255, Log-Haven.com
2. Fresco
3. Tuscany

BEST THAI
Sawadee
Just down from the Avenues, Sawadee is a genteel paradise for the lunch crowd, a cool Thai oasis that offers excellent, reasonably priced food in a peaceful, elegant environment. Its $7.45 lunch special is one of the best deals in town. Salad with a drizzle of peanut sauce; light, fluffy jasmine rice; a deep fried spring roll; and two choices from a 20-odd item list of curries, coconut and chicken soupseven some barbeque dishes. With delicate desserts including fresh mangoes with Thai sweety sticky rice not included, they are still a sore temptation to round up the perfect meal.
754 E. South Temple, Salt Lake City, 801-328-8424, Sawadee1.com
2. Thai Siam
3. Chanon Thai

BEST SUB SELECTION
Grinders 13
Grinders 13, a Utah sandwich institution via New Hampshire, has been bringing thousands of Utahns delicious subs (or "Grinders" as those Easterners call them) for over 30 years. The 13 may have denoted how many subs Sylvia and Maurice "Moe" Girouard offered back in the '70s but, in the new millennium, this eatery now boasts almost double that, with 24 subs to satisfy the pickiest sub lover. For a little variety, how about trying the savory Salisbury steak grinder? Or the pot roast sandwich, heaped with slow cooked pot roast, gravy and veggiesit's like Mom's Sunday dinner on a bun! For the vegan crowd, try a garden burger grinder and for the not-so-vegan crowd, try out the veal cutlet grinder which goes great with spaghetti sauce and peppers.
1618 S. State, 801-467-3676; 2125 S. 3200 West, 801-973-6489, Salt Lake City, Grinders13.com

BEST ORAL CONTRACEPTIVE
The Cotton Bottom's Garlic Burger
Part of Cotton Bottom's long-celebrated mystique is its locally renowned garlic burger. A burger of such acclaim that Cotton Bottom owners discovered a little caf in New York City willing to admit it copied their recipe. It's the kind of indulgence you owe yourself once in a whilea slab of garlic-drenched meat washed down with a few brews. But did you know the Cotton Bottom's garlic burger keeps your teenage daughters safe? Who wants to kiss a randy male student reeking of garlic? Add to that that the burger helps soak up the booze, thus helping to temper a young man's potentially booze-clouded mind, and it's clear the Cotton Bottom is one of Salt Lake's unsung civic heroes.
2820 E. 6200 South, Salt Lake City, 801-273-9830

BEST VEGETARIAN
Sage's Caf
Back in the day, Sage's Caf dominated the Best Vegetarian category not only because owner/chef Ian Brandt possesses mad culinary skills but also because his labor of love was pretty much the only strictly meat-free joint in town. Now in its ninth year, Sage's remains on top thanks to its commitment to quality organic ingredients, inventive menu items and friendly, knowledgeable servers. Oh, and the carrot butter. We'd pretty much crown them the victors on the strength of that addictive appetizer alone.
473 E. Broadway, Salt Lake City, 801-322-3790, SagesCafe.com
2. Vertical Diner
3. Oasis

SANDY'S BEST THAI LUNCH
Royal Thai Kitchen
It's hard not to love food that tastes fresh and home-made, and that's what you get at this little ma & pa Thai restaurant, tucked away in the mall that houses the beloved Spoons N' Spice and across from Salt Lake Community College's Sandy Center. Royal Thai Kitchen's lunch special at $6.99 is the real deal, featuring a rotation of soups, curries and noodles. They're more than willing to bring the heat, if requested, and some patrons leave dabbing sweat off their brows as proof. Best of all is the friendly cook who visits the tables after lunch to check on your contentment with her meal.
816 E. 9400 South, Sandy, 801-571-8791

BEST LAVISH BRUNCH
Stein Eriksen Lodge's Glitretind Restaurant
Imagine a vast spread of exquisitely prepared salmon, shrimp, sushi, free-range chicken, pork ribs, salads and soups in addition to breakfast faves like eggs Florentine, thick seasoned bacon, french toast, waffles, omelets, and crepes topped off by succulent desserts including creme brulee, chocolate decadence cake and Stein's apple pie. The altitude is high and so is your spirit after indulging in this feast. Go early, enjoy the view, linger as long as they'll let you.
7700 Stein Way, Deer Valley Resort, Park City, 435-645-6455, SteinLodge.com

BEST VIETNAMESE
Cafe Trang
Its move to the Crane Building has made Caf Trang such a popular destination for suburbanites attending events at EnergySolutions Arena that many of us, with fond memories of the old Main Street locationand even the one at the dearly departed Cottonwood Mallyearn for the good old days. But it's good to still see Trang on the map. Pho shizzle.
307 W. 200 South, Salt Lake City, 801-539-1638
2. East West Connection
3. Indochine

BEST DOWNTOWN/CENTRAL RESTAURANT
Bambara
The best thing about Bambara may be that it’s on Main Street. It’s a well-done, ground level, comfortable restaurant right where one should be in the heart of the business district. The Hotel Monaco is now overshadowed by a brand-new next-door skyscraper, but with Bambara, the older building retains the street’s classic character. Chef Nathan Powers directs the restaurant’s outstanding cuisine which is served by the city’s friendliest professional wait staff—Bambara offers the quintessential downtown dining experience. Pick anything on the menu—though you have to start with the blue cheese house-cut potato chips.
202 S. Main, Salt Lake City, 801-363-5454, Bambara-SLC.com
2. Takashi
3. Tin Angel

BEST SMALL TOWN DRIVE-IN
Rodriguez Polar King
Every small town in Utah has one: that charming little family-run drive-in on Main Street. In Summit County’s Coalville, it was once simply “The Polar King.” Somewhere along the line, the Rodriguez family took over. They’ve added huge homemade burritos, enchiladas and yeros (yes, yeros) to the typical menu of cheeseburgers and chicken fillets. The fries are hand-cut and tasty and the milkshakes are thick and gooey. Friendly service and perfect after a day of fishing or mountain biking.
128 N. Main, Coalville, 435-336-2372

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