The Pioneer hoopla in Utah means many things to many people. To the writers at City Weekly, it has come to mean that this is the week we publish the annual “Coldest Beer” issue—where we celebrate Utah’s “pioneers of hospitality.”
Now in our third year, to gather the “data” for this issue, 18 of us cruised the highways and byways of Salt Lake Valley, Provo, Orem, Ogden, Park City, Eden, Heber and even Logan, to visit more than 200 bars. We focused primarily on true club establishments but also visited a number of taverns and even a few resort restaurants known as “après” watering holes. While stopping to take the pulse of each assigned bar, we also literally tested the temperature of a glass of beer using a digital thermometer. Our beer “specimen” was a Bud Light—or the cheapest pilsner the bar had.
We’ll be the first to admit, our testing process is not a precise science. It’s more a fun exercise. It gives us a reason to visit new clubs in new parts of town, and we hope this issue will have the same effect on you.
This year, we’ve changed things up a bit. We’re still highlighting beer temperatures, but after revealing the top dozen purveyors of the coldest beer (see winners below), we categorized bars to help direct you to the nightlife adventure you’re seeking, listing bars alphabetically by category. Yes, some bars surely deserve multiple categories, but we had to choose the one that stood out above the others. Your experience may differ—leave us a comment below.
Cheers!
The Categories
Destination Bars: Bars with unique offerings often recommended to friends/visitors.
• Cocktails & Specialty Drinks
Naughty & Nice: Bars featuring exotic dancing
Sports Bars: Watch the games or play the games
Neighborhood Bars: Biker bars, dive bars, downtown duck-ins, hidden gems and neighborhood charmers
Resort Bars/Eateries that cater to imbibers of booze.
The Coolest Dozen
Tied for No. 1: 30.6° Corner Pocket, Tooele
Tied for No. 1: 30.6° Lamplite Lounge, Ogden
No. 2: 31.1° Aerie, Snowbird
No. 3: 31.6° Legends Bar & Grill, Park City
No. 4: 31.8° Bourbon House, SLC
No. 5: 32.0° All Star Sports Bar, Tooele
No. 6: 32.0° Granite Club, SLC
No. 7: 32.1° Batters Up, SLC
No. 8: 32.1° Bill’s Lounge, Magna
No. 9: 32.3° The Paper Moon, SLC
Tied for No. 10: 32.4° Mulligan’s, Logan
Tied for No. 10: 32.4° The Leprechaun Inn, SLC
A Bar Named Sue
34.4°
Johnny Cash fans will know the score as soon as they hear the name. Cash is indeed king here, but not to the extent that it’s a full-on theme. What you get is everything you want from a dive bar: a jukebox, cheap booze, a feeling that it’s your secret hang and a kinda-grimy vibe so you feel tough. However, this cellar dweller is as clean as it is cool. Its colorful history as a bar is palpable; it’s still the go-to bar of this part of town. Pool is always free, and you can play in weekly poker tournaments, enjoy darts on actual bristle boards and feast on superlative bar food, including a monster bacon cheeseburger. A shared patio (with neighboring Mexican restaurant El Chihuahua) should be ready to roll any day now. 3928 S. Highland Drive, Salt Lake City, 801-274-5578, A-Bar-Named-Sue.com
Piper Down
39.2°
Although Scottish in essence, Piper Down is known to rake the green on all things Irish—like St. Patrick’s Day, when it becomes party central. Piper Down (subtitled “An Olde World Pub”) is one of SLC’s classiest full-service clubs: pool, live bands, karaoke, food, ball games on the screens, poker and geek trivia nights, plus a cozy bar/dining room/patio extension nicknamed “The Temple Bar.” (It’s a nod to the original name of Piper Down that our always misinformed state officials would not allow.) Knock back a cold one with an authentic Irish app like the “Beeg as Yer Heed” nachos. 1492 S. State, Salt Lake City, 801-468-1492, PiperDownPub.com
Piper Down
Brewvies
43.5°
What could be better than this? You buy a movie ticket, put in an order for some drinks and snacks like chicken strips and sweet-potato fries (with housemade fry sauce) and kick back on a comfy couch or seat in the theater to enjoy one of the best combinations in the world—watching a movie on the big screen with booze that you didn’t have to sneak in. To show your support for SLC’s only cinema pub, sport one of the clever Brewvies T-shirts designed by bartender Robby Petrich, with references to movie favorites like A Clockwork Orange, Back to the Future and The Godfather. 677 S. 200 West, Salt Lake City, 801-355-5500, Brewvies.com
City Club
36.7°
How many other bars double as bona fide museums? City Club is home to both a $1 million Beatles memorabilia collection and one of the best atmospheres in Ogden. The bartenders are friendly but not overbearing, and the clientele are mellow but cheerful as they sip on beer or Beatles-themed cocktails like the Magical Mystery Tour. City Club also offers a free ride service on weekends—both to and from the bar. 264 25th St., Ogden, 801-392-4447, TheCityClubOnline.net
Huka Bar & Grill/Huka Lounge
34.0°
If you haven’t made the Huka scene lately, you’re missing out on the last of indoor huka smoking (the Legislature gave the bar a short reprieve from the Utah Clean Air Act). Keep in mind, there are two bars here: Huka Bar is the rowdier sister, featuring huka-adorned tables, sexy barkeeps and servers, go-go dancers and DJs Tuesday through Saturday. Next door is the very chill Huka Lounge, a hangout with live bands Wednesday and Saturday, pool tables, shuffleboard and a photobooth/jukebox that posts photos directly to Facebook. With Huka Bar’s ample draft beer and cider selection, specialty drinks like Ruby Duby Doo and The Chronic, and a diverse menu featuring the ever-popular Huka pulled pork, this is the place for a relaxing date night. Top your evening off at Huka Lounge (open till 3 a.m.) with a cup of Marley Coffee, specially roasted by Bob Marley’s son. 151 E. 6100 South/139 E. 6100 South, Murray, 801-281-4852, TheHukaBar.com
Shooting Star Saloon
35.6°
From Ogden, you reach the Shooting Star after a gorgeous drive up Ogden Canyon. Or from Salt Lake City, you can take an equally gorgeous drive up Weber Canyon past Snowbasin. At first glance, the Shooting Star looks like the best a little town like Huntsville could do, but step inside and the notion dissipates as you talk to a bartender, regular or someone who came from Germany, Ireland or some other far-off land just to drink here beneath huge mounted moose, elk and a (formerly) 298-pound St. Bernard. This is one of the country’s oldest continuously operating bars, having opened in 1879 and run right through Prohibition—it’s been well-documented on the Travel Channel and the Food Network. Speakin’ of grub: The Star burger is legendary. 7345 E. 200 South, Huntsville, 801-745-2002
The Westerner
41.9°
Two words: mechanical bull. You need more info than that? Seriously? OK, this Redwood Road mainstay is rife with entertainment, from the designated soundproof karaoke room, the region’s biggest dance floor to live local and touring bands on Saturday. If there were any doubts that country is alive and well in Utah, just stop by to witness the up to 1,500 boot-scootin’ boogiers who come through the door each weekend—and have done so for generations. 3360 S. Redwood Road, West Valley City, 801-972-5447
Bar-X
37.4°
Open since 1933, the year Prohibition was repealed, Bar-X survived for decades as a beer-only man cave. The new Bar-X has an ethos encapsulated in the true cocktail, like Old Fashioneds and other pre-Prohibition drinks. The bar also specializes in local musicians, especially jazz musicians like the Joshua Payne Trio, which plays Sunday nights. Bar X’s seriously dark interior exudes a lavish Roaring ‘20s aesthetic—the exclusive “speakeasy back room” furthers the theme with a private bar, muted lighting and an iron-gated patio to keep out the prohibitionists. 155 E. 200 South, Salt Lake City, 801-355-2287, BarXSaltLake.com
Kristauf’s
37.0°
Salt Lake City’s first martini bar offers a cozy atmosphere that is especially attractive to stylish and hip patrons. Sit in one of the black-leather couches surrounded by Vettriano paintings and sip on one of the 80 specialty martinis served at Kristauf’s during a quiet weekday night. Or, come in on the weekends and dance to the live DJ. Kristauf’s has partnered with Maxwell’s East Coast Eatery so you can now order home-style Italian pizza and pasta dishes off the menu that will be delivered to the bar. 16 W. Market St., Salt Lake City,
801-366-9490, MartiniBarSLC.com
Kristauf’s Holladay
33.6°
Just like its older sibling downtown, this East Bench Kristauf’s location offers an elegantly casual environment that’s part neighborhood bar and part nightcap spot, conveniently located next door to Trio restaurant. The specialty of the house is the martini, as evidenced by a menu featuring scores of specialty versions of the classic cocktail. Settle in to a comfy indoor booth, or enjoy the shaded patio, with a special summer menu. 6405 S. 3000 East, Holladay, 801-943-1696, MartiniBarSLC.com
Market Street
Oyster Bar
39.9°
This social club provides a fine dinner, plus any drink of choice—and has done so brilliantly for a few decades now. The late-’50s-style oyster bar connects to the adjacent Market Street Grill, and their shared kitchen offers a variety of seafood and grill entrees. Enjoy old-fashioned classic cocktails and seasonal martinis, served by a “customer comes first” wait staff. The mirrored walls expand the small space so it always feels like you’re in the middle of an especially swanky full house. 54 W. Market St., Salt Lake City, 801-531-6044, GINC.com
Club 48
41.1°
The “48” of Club 48 could be for its location on 4800 South. But then it could also be for one of its 48 (forty-eight!) signature cocktails. Every bartender who has slung a beverage in this Murray landmark has been honored with his or her own signature cocktail. Club 48 also hosts the Harley Mountain Ride on the second Sunday of the month, followed by a $4 barbecue burger cookout. If you don’t have a hog, they have free pool every Sunday. 16 W. 4800 South, Murray,
801-262-7555
Club 48
The Red Door
40.6°
You get a sense for the target clientele just by looking at the martini menu—a 46-drink list of wild, creative indulgences from mild to “high-octane,” and bearing scrumptious-sounding titles like Carrot Cake and Butterscotch Sundae. Summer specialty fruit cocktails kick things up another notch at this place with intimate tables, casual conversation and weekend music (Friday night DJ and Saturday night live jazz). 57 W. 200 South, Salt Lake City, 801-363-6030, BehindTheRedDoor.com
The Tap Room
33.1°
This is Sugar House’s basement bar with true cocktails and a full menu (burgers, dogs, paninis). It’s still tiny, but there’s a killer patio enclosed in six-foot wrought-iron fencing and, in the summer months, it makes for a perfect afternoon and evening lounging spot with the overhanging trees. The Tap Room likes to mix it up with obscure margaritas (like cucumber mango), and you can get a shot of King Louis XIII liqueur for $111. Or maybe you’d just like a can of good ol’ Hamm’s, which the Tap Room special-ordered just for you. 2275 S. Highland Drive, Salt Lake City,
801-466-0974
The Vault [Bambara Bar]
44.9°
Adjacent to Hotel Monaco’s Bambara restaurant, this beautiful bar’s name refers to the building’s early days as a bank. With its marble bar, high ceilings, polished furniture and courteous, expert barkeepers, stepping into The Vault feels like stepping into one of the glamorous, sophisticated bars featured in Mad Men. But don’t let that give you the impression you can’t relax: The atmosphere is casual and intimate. So, order Hawaiian tombo tuna tartare, blue-cheese potato chips or a local cheese plate off the mouth-watering menu and kick back after a long day at the office. 202 S. Main, Salt Lake City, 801-363-5454, Bambara-SLC.com
Vuda
39.9°
Partnered with the equally stylish Vuz restaurant is a classy lounge with a quiet, laid-back feel. But where most nightspots swing hardest on the weekends, Vuda becomes the South Valley’s liveliest spot on Wednesdays, when the club hosts a weekly DJ and dancing benefit for Primary Children’s Hospital. Whether you’re there to hang with the Draper glitterati or spend a quiet evening tucked away in a comfy booth, you’re in the right spot. 12234 Draper Gate Drive, Draper, 801-617-8600, VuzBar.net
The Bayou
37.8°
With a massive beer menu that boasts 300 or so beers from across the globe, The Bayou is one of Utah’s greatest haunts for beer fanatics. And its reputation goes beyond beer: The full lunch and dinner menu of creative Cajun dishes is a hit seven days a week. On weekend nights, the tables and stools fill to capacity even faster when the club hosts local and regional jazz acts for intimate performances. 645 S. State, Salt Lake City, 801-961-8400, UtahBayou.com
Beerhive Pub
42.8°
If your find yourself in serious need of oodles of beer, Beerhive Pub is your place, with more than 200 beers available. Local breweries represented include Uinta, Epic, Squatters and more, and if you’re looking for an obscure beer, chances are you can find it at this beer-lovers’ haven. Take a seat at the bar, where the famous frosted rail will keep your drink icy cold, or step out onto the sidewalk patio with your friends and enjoy the hustle and bustle of downtown. And don’t miss out on pub-food favorites such as the Beer Hive burger, cheese fries and nachos. 128 S. Main, Salt Lake City, 801-364-4268
Desert Edge Brewery
46.4°
With enough space for big groups, including a gorgeous patio, Desert Edge Brewery is the place for hand-crafted brew and food to share with friends or family. As one of the Pub Group Restaurants (which includes Martine, Stella and Red Butte Cafe), you know the emphasis here is on local, innovative fare. Desert Edge is an all-ages establishment to round out a Trolley Square shopping excursion. 273 Trolley Square, 801-521-8917, DesertEdgeBrewery.com
The Deerhunter Pub
41.5°
Probably the best-kept secret in Utah County, the Deerhunter Pub has live music every Friday and Saturday (with bands playing on the back patio if weather permits), karaoke every Sunday and boasts a selection of over 45 beers. This cowboy bar is for the true beer connoisseur or for anyone looking for a casual, laid-back place to drink. 2000 North 300 West, Spanish Fork, 801-798-8582, TheDeerhunterPub.com
Hoppers Bar & Grill
36.9°
It’s always great to discover a brewery that can make a great house black & tan. Hoppers has you covered with the Madame X Stout layered over the Pale Morning Ale. Or perhaps try one of the regular rotations of seasonal brews. You can also feel really good about Hoppers’ Orange Honey Wheat beer—it makes ordering a pitcher at brunch seem classy and helps you wash down the country-gravy-covered “surprise on a shingle.” 890 E. Fort Union Blvd., Midvale, 801-566-0424, HoppersBrewpub.com
Red Rock Brewing Company
45.9°
Award-winning locally made beers—from standards like the hefeweizen and oatmeal stout to high-point beers—are only part of the reason to drop by. Enjoy lunch or dinner from a menu ranging from sandwiches to seafood specials; on a perfect day, the front patio allows a wonderful downtown Salt Lake City street-front vibe. Or if downtown isn’t on your itinerary, there are always the locations in Murray at Fashion Place Mall, and Kimball Junction (approaching Park City). 254 S. 200 West, Salt Lake City, 801-521-7446, RedRockBrewing.com
Bohemian Brewery
38.8°
Owned and operated by a Czech family, the Bohemian Brewery brings an Eastern European-style brew pub to Salt Lake Valley. The always-lagered beers come in a variety of sizes, from your typical brew pub sample glasses up to the Bohemian’s “Manly” stein. The eclectic menu features authentic European goulash, pierogies and spaetzle, in addition to a Czech take on pub classics, with pilsener-battered fish & chips, garlic burger and chicken wings. If you can make it up the stairs at the end of your meal, check out Midvale’s largest scooter museum in the loft that overlooks the dining room. 94 E. Fort Union Blvd., Midvale, 801-566-5474, BohemianBrewery.com
Roosters Brewing Co.
41.2°
It’s long been voted Best Ogden Restaurant by City Weekly readers, but Roosters also has some of the best local brews, including the rich Junction City Chocolate Stout. If you can’t decide which Roosters beer to order, you can order a sampler trio (or two) for just $1.50 each. Roosters also brews its own root beer, which you can have straight up or “loaded.” Enjoy a brew and a decadent basket of naughty fries on the outside covered patio, upstairs in the dining area or—if you’d rather have your libations with a side of sports—at the main-floor bar. 253 25th St., Ogden, 801-627-6171, RoostersBrewingCo.com
Squatters
42.9°
Like the elephant in that well-known proverb, Squatters feels like a different thing depending on which end of it you’re holding. The downtown location is a wonderful restaurant with thoughtful and delicious upscale pub-style food, perhaps before a show at the nearby Rose Wagner Center. Yet it’s also an after-work bar for enjoying one of its award-winning brews, handcrafted locally since 1989, while watching a game on the big screen. Like the menu of beers, it’s a little something for many different tastes. Look for Squatters also in Park City and now at the airport. 147 W. Broadway, Salt Lake City, 801-363-2739, Squatters.com
Uinta Brewery Brewhouse Pub
36.4°
Beer-o-philes can rejoice at the Uinta Brewery Beerhouse Pub. If Cutthroat Pale Ale or Hoodoo Kolsch are your jam, you won’t want to miss a chance to pay homage to the source of such tasty brews right at the Brewhouse Pub. Besides your favorite Uinta bevs, you can also shop at the in-house beer store for high-point beers. During the day, you can see where all the magic happens and take a quick tour of the brewery itself. 1722 S. Fremont Drive, Salt Lake City, 801-467-0909, UintaBrewing.com
Wasatch Brew Pub
& Brewery
40.8°
With the hangovers from its fall 2011 25th anniversary finally starting to fade, Utah’s first brew pub continues to be a dominant force at the top of Park City’s Main Street. Along with the established classics such as the First Amendment lager, fish & chips and more obscure beers—you must experience the nip of the jalapeño-cream ale—Wasatch has a friendly, laid-back vibe. 250 Main, Park City, 435-649-0900, WasatchBeers.com
Bandits’ Grill & Bar
36.1°
Cowboys and cowgirls should feel right at home in this two-level establishment, with a bar downstairs, eatery upstairs and an inviting street patio, to boot. With its signature amber beer—Bandits’ Brew—and a reputation for the best slow-roasted sirloin in town, its tri-tip nachos are simply to die for. Indulge your instincts for good food and suds while listening to the mournful tunes of Clint Black and the like upstairs, and classic rock below. It’s cowpoke heaven. 440 Main, Park City, 435-649-7337, BanditsBBQ.com
Bayleaf Bar & Grub
40.1°
The Bayleaf’s renowned, authentic Southern comfort food is available throughout the week, and it’s soulfully prepared 24 hours a day on Friday and Saturday. Popular entrees like the chicken & waffles pair well with cheap drafts as well as the extensive local-beer selection and signature drinks like the Pee-wee Herman (a strangely palatable mix of Jack Daniels and orange soda). Big Bubba’s pile of food is also not to be missed. Bayleaf also has pool, foosball and Galaga in case the food, drink and late-night calamity aren’t enough to hold your interest. 159 S. Main, Salt Lake City, 801-359-8490, BayleafBarAndGrub.com
Blind Dog Grill
34.0°
While Blind Dog has no beer on tap, you can best define this sushi-restaurant-meets-East-Coast-upscale-bar’s class by one of its drinks, the Top Dog margarita, which evokes a Florida beach with its astute mix of Patron Añejo tequila, agave nectar, fresh-squeezed lime and OJ. With the 14-year-old Blind Dog, they’ve built something that is both swanky and yet genteel for the well-heeled in Park City. 1251 Kearns Blvd., Park City, 435-655-0800, BlindDogPC.com
‘Bout Time Pub & Grub—Taylorsville
38.2°
There’s a reason why there are seven of these babies throughout the valley, and as you walk into the oaky sports den during any playoff game, you’ll know why. The vibe is laid-back and casual, but these sports fans are passionate. The bartenders always don jerseys—if you spot a male bartender wearing a female bartender’s jersey tank-top, you can safely assume he lost a bet. They’re passionate about food here, too: Don’t miss the Irish nachos—potatoes with ranch, cheese and bacon—or Scotch eggs. 5592 S. Redwood, Taylorsville, 801-968-1444, BoutTimePub.com
Carlos & Harley’s Fresh-Mex Cantina
44.8°
The last place you’d expect to find a fresh-Mex cantina is in a small town in the Ogden Valley, in a building that looks like—and is—a general store. The interior resembles an upscale chain restaurant, except there’s more chain and less Chili’s cheese. And the food (which is really Tex-Mex) is absolutely incredible—especially the carne asada street tacos, which are piled high and go great with beer or margaritas from the full bar. 5510 E. 2200 North, Eden, 801-745-8226, CarlosAndHarleys.com
Club 90
42.6°
Sandy’s Club 90 is big: two floors, a stage and dance floor for the karaoke crowd on Thursday nights and live music on Fridays and Saturdays, a 150-seat patio and a newly remodeled “game” room that features not only five pool tables but numerous wild game and fish mounts on the walls. Game days are also a big deal here. But for manager George Lowe and anyone with an appetite, Club 90 is all about the best in food and drink at unbeatable prices. Order a Crown & Coke for $4.25. Combine that with daily specials such as $2 tacos or the $6.95 half-pound New York steaks, and you might find that eating and drinking at Club 90 can be your ticket out of the recession. 9065 S. 150 West, Sandy, 801-566-3254, Club90SLC.com
Copper Club
39.4°
Copper Club re-opened in a new, larger location in fall 2011, and you can practically still smell the fresh paint. Upstairs carries a classy restaurant/lounge vibe, with sofas facing the fireplace and tables for dining. You can enjoy lobster omelets and other delicacies to the sounds of live jazz at the relaxing, gourmet Sunday brunches—or join the standing-room-only crowd on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. for $6 6-ounce steaks, served with three shrimp and a salad. And don’t miss a trip downstairs to the Sports Page, a huge room with its own bar and a multitude of flat screens. 315 24th St., Ogden, 801-392-7243, OgdenCopperClub.com
Cotton Bottom Inn
35.8°
The garlic burger—celebrated throughout the Salt Lake Valley in song and story—is this beer bar’s claim to fame. It’s a recipe that every other bar in town has tried to copy. Cotton Bottom brings an easygoing dive-bar feel to a swanky neighborhood (with Tuscany restaurant as a next-door neighbor). In warm weather, the shaded patio is an inviting gathering spot at the bottom of the Cottonwood canyons. 2820 E. 6200 South, Salt Lake City, 801-273-9830
Flanagan’s on Main
39.0°
The theme of Flanagan’s, as the name suggests, is decidedly Irish. This is a bar that walks the line between casual and stylish with aplomb. While you nod your head to the local bands with an Irish spin who play downstairs, try the bar’s take on a Bloody Mary—a Bloody Molly. And don’t miss an opportunity to explore the culinary lineup of the usual suspects—Irish beef stew, shepherd’s pie—as well as the more offbeat offerings, like the “banger Alfredo”: Irish banger sausages with red onions and garlic, bathed in a creamy, cheesy sauce and tossed with pasta. Flanagan’s, apparently named after a local priest of the same name, has Tetley’s on tap along with local brews. With just four years under its belt, this is one Irish pub that seems to have been around a hell of a lot longer. 438 Main, Park City, 435-649-8600, FlanagansOnMain.com
Flanagan's on Main
Faces
50.0°
This quaint North Salt Lake bar and grill got its name on account of all the different kinds of faces that come through to enjoy tasty lunches, cold beers and a full bar. The welcoming atmosphere is supported by friendly owner/operators ready at hand with cool drinks and an affordable but tasty soul-food menu that includes barbecue, Philly cheesesteak sandwiches and the popular fried catfish and fried-catfish nuggets. When planning your visit, keep in mind that Faces is open just for lunch on weekdays and only on weekend evenings, excluding Sunday. 659 N. 300 West, Salt Lake City, 801-596-0344
Fiddler’s Elbow
39.4°
A Sugar House institution since 1996, Fiddler’s many tables and booths are packed with sports fans who want good beer, good company and stellar wings while they watch the Utes. Saturdays feature a world-famous breakfast, and Sundays are home to the Prime-rib buffet brunch. With 32 beers on tap, including many locals, you’re unlikely to be disappointed when seeking a pint of your favorite froth to quaff. 1063 E. 2100 South, 801-463-9393, FiddlersElbowSLC.com
Gracie’s
32.7°
Offering myriad pleasures all under one roof, Gracie’s can make a drinking-age adult feel like a toddler in a toy store. This West Temple multilevel hotspot lives up to its gastropub billing by serving an array of appetizing dishes in a variety of seemly settings. Soak up some sun as you watch passersby from the second story, share a fresh melon cocktail and a smoke on the ground-floor patio, or head inside to shoot pool and follow a game on the big screen. Not to your liking? Then come anyway for the live music, DJs, trivia, shuffleboard and Sunday-night cornhole tournament. 326 S. West Temple, Salt Lake City, 801-819-7565, GraciesSLC.com
High West Distillery & Saloon
38.6°
With a distinctive mellow taste in country music, High West has a rustic intimacy that makes the former horse livery—now distillery and restaurant—a pleasure to visit. This up-market roadhouse displays a cultivated taste in everything from its Spanish cheeses to the whiskey and chocolate pairings for dessert. The entire property was moved back five feet to provide ample space for a comfortable, well-designed patio. In the basement, you’ll find the distillery and—on our visit, at least—a chalkboard with a complicated chemical equation demonstrating the complexities that go into High West’s offerings. 703 Park Ave., Park City, 435-649-8300, HighWest.com
Inferno Cantina
38.9°
A Mexican restaurant by day and a dance club by night, the self-styled “only tequila bar” in Salt Lake City has a menu that will whet your appetite, and cocktails to wet your whistle. The décor inside is festive and bright, replete with faux-coral pillars and bamboo siding—while flames lap from gas torches on the outdoor patio and flirty staff round out the beach-bar motif. Live bands play on Sunday Fun Day, and DJs set the dance floor en fuego every Friday and Saturday night. 122 W. Pierpont Ave., Salt Lake City, 801-883-8838, InfernoSLC.com
J & J Lounge
32.9°
The J & J Lounge is a family-owned business that started back in 1976, making it the definitive Tooele neighborhood bar. This cash-only spot is dressed with aged wood, antique beer swag on the walls and a couple of pool tables. Though the bar is known for cheap drinks, the locals also stop by daily for the food. If you’re in the neighborhood, check out the famous chicken-noodle-topped mashed potatoes. 46 N. Broadway, Tooele, 435-882-7605
Lucky 13
41.2°
This food-oriented sports bar is willing to pony up $500 to those who can finish two of their mile-high burgers with fries. If power eating isn’t your thing, come by for Sunday brunch and sip on a bacon-filled Bloody Mary while watching the morning game, or order one of Lucky 13’s famous, flavorful garlic burger or bacon burger. Everything’s made slowly and with care, so there might be a wait for your food to arrive at the table—but it’s definitely worth it. Distract your growling stomach by showing off your smarts on geek-quiz Wednesdays or relaxing outside on the large patio, complete with heaters in the winter, booming sound and big-screen TVs. 135 W. 1300 South, Salt Lake City, 801-487-4482, Lucky13SLC.com
Maxwell’s East Coast Eatery
43.5°
The handsome, dark-wood bar that stretches through Maxwell’s was hand-built with the help of the staff you see diligently serving the clientele. It’s clear they take pride in the bar, and while they serve the delicious Fat Kid pizza that founder Steven Maxwell built his reputation on, this high-volume sports bar has worked just as hard to develop its own Cheers-type atmosphere—according to one manager, 75 percent of the clientele are regulars who come in several times a week. Enough said. 1456 Newpark Blvd., Park City, 435-647-0304, MaxwellsECE.com
Poplar Street Pub
37.7°
It’s easy to imagine an enjoyable way to spend any hour of the day at this casual downtown SLC hangout. For lunch, the full menu of appetizers, burgers, sandwiches and pizzas is built to satisfy; at night, the patio bar offers convenient service; and live music entertains on Friday and Saturday. There’s even an all-you-can-eat Sunday brunch with $4 mimosas, just in case your mornings feel incomplete without a little Poplar Street. 242 S. 200 West, Salt Lake City, 801-532-2715, PoplarStreetPub.com
Totem’s
33.7°
Like a palace of wood, bars, icy beers and delicious victuals, Totem’s is a massive bar with something for everybody. Between five bars on the club side alone, poker and pool tables, a patio and a karaoke stage, Totem’s packs the floor with diversions and some of the coldest beer on the west side—which also pairs well with the great menu that includes spicy breaded chicken wings, killer steaks and housemade tamales and tortillas. 538 S. Redwood Road, Salt Lake City, 801-975-0401
Trolley Wing Company
40.5°
Trolley Wing Company is a high-energy joint located on the upper floor of Trolley Square. The menu centers around wings, which are served with your choice of 13 housemade sauces, and beer to wash them down. If you don’t feel like paying, try the Enema Challenge: 12 wings in the hottest sauce. If you can finish them in 30 minutes, there’s no charge. 602 E. 500 South, Salt Lake City, 801-538-0745, TrolleyWingCo.com
The Bears Den
34.3°
The Magna strip club gets its name from a giant bear that the owner shot years ago and now stands stuffed in the main room. The Bears Den resembles the man cave you wished you owned—it’s adorned with antique beer signs, stuff that’s been shot and, of course, scantily clad ladies. With cheap drinks like $1.50 MGDs and signature shots like the Hump Day (Three Olive Birthday Cake vodka, pineapple juice and grenadine topped with whipped cream), The Bears Den is a bar for guys who like bars. 8785 W. 2700 South, Magna, 801-250-6616
Club Wet
42.6°
After a 2009 update to Ogden’s zoning ordinance, Club Wet—located, luckily, far away from any malls, parks or churches—is now the only strip club left in Ogden (and northern Utah in general). But Club Wet isn’t resting on its guaranteed-clientele laurels: The club strives to please its guests in all possible ways, whether with the erotic shows happening onstage, the Thursday $5 steak dinners or bartender Jake Jessop’s White Trash Swimming Pool cocktail (as you might guess, it contains a little bit of everything). There’s also a swanky private balcony overlooking the stage—perfect for bachelor parties—and a back patio that opens at night with its own rolling bar and occasional karaoke. 2706 S. 1900 West, Ogden, 801-395-1517, Club-Wet.com
Pinky’s Gentlemen’s Club
38.1°
This strip club, which boasts Salt Lake City’s only spinning stripper pole, as well as a pool table covered in pink felt, may look rough and tumble on the outside. But for all its derring-do, Pinky’s offers a sweet neighborhood hangout. The bar’s manager, Andrea, says it’s mostly regulars, and she really does know their names. “It’s Cheers with boobies,” she claims. The house specialty drink is the Spider Bite, made with Tarantula Azul and Red Bull. Not only does Pinky’s offer a full menu of assorted pub grub, but also free lunch, Monday through Friday. An expanded patio is under construction as you read. 4141 S. State, Murray, 801-261-3463, PinkysTopless.com
Duces Wild
33.4°
They call it “your slightly naughty neighborhood bar” and, even though this section of 300 West is no one’s neighborhood, Duces Wild does have a friendly vibe—and yes, the dancers are slightly naughty (a little more so if you’re prepared to make it rain). Besides strippers taking shifts on the single central stage, there are plenty of pool tables and video games should you, for some reason, need a distraction from nearly naked ladies. 2750 S. 300 West, Salt Lake City, 801-467-4600, DucesWildSLC.com
Duces Wild
Southern X-posure
36.6°
This State Street strip club has one of the most ingenious specials in town: “Sunday Services: Free lunch to all members dressed in their Sunday best.” With a full menu that ranges from salads and sandwiches to burgers and hefty steaks, it might be worth clipping on that tie. Or there’s the simpler “Tag Team Tuesdays: Two Girls Per Stage,” which is also quite tasty. 3420 S. State, Salt Lake City, 801-288-1488, MySouthernX.com
Trails Gentlemen’s Club
33.0°
When asked what it’s best known for, the response is “boobs” with a frank smile. It’s also the home to City Weekly’s 2012 Best Strip Club DJ, Tyler Justice. Here you can enjoy watching “meat” while you eat meat—a 9-ounce steak is just $5. The service is always friendly and prompt. Don’t plan on a soulful conversation since the music is loud and the lights dim—but then again, isn’t that the point? 921 S. 300 West Salt Lake City, 801-363-2871, TrailsClub.com
A Beuford Gifford’s Libation Emporium (ABG’s)
40.4°
Come for the drinks and music, but don’t forget the food. For instance, the owner, Big Dane, makes his own barbecue sauce, the Big Mouth BBQ Sauce, which is almost worth drinking by itself. The bartenders are friendly, welcoming and easy to talk to. There’s also live music every weekend that ranges from local rock bands to blues to heavy-metal screamers. ABG’s is super casual and will feel like home if you’re not careful. 190 W. Center St., Provo, 801-373-1200, ABGsBar.com
Brewskis
39.7°
What can you say about the bar that does everything? With three separate rooms that almost qualify as separate bars, Brewskis has the market cornered on live music—local and touring bands on Fridays, cover bands on Saturdays—sports, games, pizza and draft-beer selection. No matter the time of day, Brewskis is buzzing—both because of the crowds and the plethora of neon signage in and outside of the bar. 244 25th St., Ogden, 801-394-1713, BrewskisOnline.net
Burt’s Tiki Lounge
37.3°
Everything about Burt’s falls into step with its gritty persona. The rugged venue is lined with hilarious, creepy and just-plain-awesome nostalgia, which has been donated entirely by staff members and by bands that have performed there. More importantly, the concert calendar is booked six nights a week with local and national performers—mostly rockers and metalheads, but also some rap and country (yes, country) acts. 726 S. State, Salt Lake City, 801-521-0572,
California Night Club
43.3°
Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, California Night Club delivers a full set of music with some of the biggest names in Mexican live bands and DJs. The impressive stage looks out on a massive dance floor and lounge area. When the neon lights subside and stereos power down, patrons can head next door to California Tacos for some of the spiciest and most authentic Mexican cuisine in town. 49 E. 900 South, Salt Lake City, 801-532-2226
Canyon Inn
41.4°
The location at the foot of Big Cottonwood Canyon makes it a favorite of skiers, but that doesn’t mean nothing’s happening during the warmer months—just that the crowd’s a bit more heavy on the locals. Outdoor “Sunset Sessions” concerts benefiting the Utah Food Bank liven up the summer, but the weekend live music keeps the house lively throughout the year. Plus, the legendary Chicago-style pizza will keep your hunger at bay. Pool tables are free weekdays. 3700 E. Fort Union Blvd., Cottonwood Heights, 801-943-6969
Club Mixed Emotions
35.7°
It’s not the Copacabana, and you’re not Henry Hill, but to patronize this local hangout you’ll need to use the back entrance, Goodfellas-style. You can drop the gangster act inside, where you’ll find a mellow atmosphere, friendly staff, and live bands and hip-hop shows that frequent the Mixed Emotions stage. The bar’s roomy interior also houses two pool tables, electronic darts, a pinball machine and a host of old-fashioned candy dispensers. Enjoy a vast beer menu and 7- or 12-inch pizzas, depending on how much of an appetite you work up bouncing to the tunes. 1030 S. State, Salt Lake City, 801-355-8055
Devil’s Daughter
38.9°
Get your sin on at this spacious, recently opened bar with unholy drinks like Jim Beam 90-proof Devil’s Cut bourbon and a signature Devil’s Daughter drink called the Blue Devil—a demonic combination of Stoli Blueberi vodka, blue curacao, sweet & sour mix, grenadine and a cherry. Nonliquid attractions include house-smoked barbecue, pool and other games, live music on the weekends and an entire second floor you can reserve for your next rockin’ birthday party. 533 S. 500 West, Salt Lake City, 801-532-1610, DevilsDaughterSLC.com
Five Monkeys
36.9°
It’s a roomy joint, with an elevated stage and an upstairs bar overlooking a bodacious dance floor. Five Monkeys serves up all the usual libations, including $3 Coors steins (and was, in fact, a previous Coldest Beer winner)—the perfect accompaniment to an order of wings or a garlic burger. With free pool, there’s no better place to monkey around in. Father and son owners Craig and Ryan Oliver take pride in the bar’s wide-ranging live music on Fridays and Saturdays. “Bands want to play here,” says papa Craig. (Privileged info: The name Five Monkeys actually refers to his grandkids.) 7 E. 4800 South, Murray, 801-266-1885, 5MonkeysBar.com
Gino’s
36.3°
Gino’s used to be known almost exclusively as a karaoke bar, but the joint has stepped up its live-music bookings (mostly hard rock & roll) to compete with the stage amateurs. Likewise, they don’t just have pool, they have pool tournaments (Thursdays), and Gino’s is known to take its parties just as seriously. 3556 S. State, Salt Lake City, 801-268-1811, Facebook.com/GinosSLC
Kamikazes
34.9°
This club is in a distinguished-looking church just outside of downtown Ogden, but it’s probably also the most raucous place in town after 10 p.m. most nights—that’ll teach you to judge by appearances. On Friday and Saturdays, Kamikazes hosts local and touring rock bands in one, er, chapel?, while a DJ spins in the next room, ensuring that the joint is always packed and pumping. On weeknights, people come to play pool and chow down on Greek food and the array of eyebrow-raising drinks, like the Purple Boner—the ingredients are top secret but it tastes just like a lime rickey. 2408 Adams Ave., Ogden, 801-621-9138, Facebook.com/Kamikazes.Ogden
Liquid Joe’s
33.4°
“We are a live music venue”—and that says nearly everything you need to know about Liquid Joe’s. Since the early ‘90s, Liquid Joe’s has done one thing very well, and that’s hosting everything from cover bands (‘80s dorks the Spazmatics every Saturday, classic-pop crooners the Pop Jockeys on Thursdays) to local bands and touring acts like Dick Dale, who made a repeat visit earlier this month. It offers all the other stuff—pool, TV, video games—but the real fun here is hoisting a huge frosty stein of domestic brews (or local microbrew) and singing along to songs you know by heart. 1249 E. 3300 South, Salt Lake City, 801-467-8512, LiquidJoes.net
Bar Deluxe
44.1°
As a member of what some call the “Statehood” district (on State Street between 600 to 900 South), Bar Deluxe is a classic venue for artists and concert-goers. With a great stage, expansive dance floor and a well-stocked, moderately priced hooch selection, Bar Deluxe has in no time become a go-to downtown nightspot. Its established headliners and rising local stars feel at home in the mid-size venue. Thanks to the attentive bar staff, the audience can take full advantage of the great bar without missing a beat. 666 S. State, Salt Lake City, 801-532-2914, BarDeluxeSLC.com
Bar Deluxe
The Spur Bar & Grill
40.1°
Dating back to the 2002 Winter Olympics, the Spur does everything in its own, feisty way, right down to the long alleyway you have to trudge to get there. As the bartenders swap jokes and dude-festooned comments, you can’t help but admire what they say is one of the last all-live music venues in town. The Go Green cocktail—Hendricks gin, sake, Thai basil, cucumber and fresh lime—is the definition of summer, even if, unlike in the winter when it’s open seven days a week, it’s only Thursday through Sunday. Charming, gnarly and always good fun, The Spur sums up the good-natured soul of Park City like no other bar. 352 Main, Park City, 435-615-1618, TheSpurBarAndGrill.com
The Urban Lounge
41.2°
The near-nightly selection of touring and local bands at The Urban Lounge is as diverse as it gets in Salt Lake City, and so are the things bands say about the venue on social media. They might comment on the paintings of John Stockton and Karl Malone by the door done by local Andrew Sato or the new-and-improved sound equipment. They might mention the abundance of Lev bottles consumed here each night or brag about their high score on Ms. Pac Man—as Stephen Malkmus of legendary ’90s rock band Pavement did. You can try to beat his score next time you catch a killer band. 241 S. 500 East, Salt Lake City, TheUrbanLoungeSLC.com
The Wine Cellar
37.9°
Walter “Mitch” Mitchell built bombs in the military, so he runs a clean, orderly place where lonely beer-nursing is verboten—Mitch’ll introduce you to new friends if he sees you doin’ that because “nobody is alone here.” The décor is the coolest and most unusual we’ve found, with everything from plush Tiggers to a cigar-box guitar and a sword collection—one for every year the Cellar has been open. Music is the main event—you should check out ace singer-songwriter Danny Weldon and old-school funkers Controversy. The Wine Cellar is open Thursday to Saturday; try the catfish.
2550 Washington Blvd., Ogden, 801-399-3600, WineCellarOgden.com
The Woodshed
40.8°
Now that it has cornhole in the spacious back patio, The Woodshed claims to have everything you need in a bar, but is perhaps best known for the live music that runs the gamut of genres. The most popular night might be Reggae Night Thursdays, but The Woodshed is packed all week long. You might be drawn to the photo booth or free video games, including Ms. Pac-Man, or a spot to share a quiet drink—this can also be the place for that until 8 or 9 p.m.; then it gets crazy. 60 E. 800 South, Salt Lake City, 801-364-0805
Area 51
41.5°
A mainstay in SLC’s club scene, Area 51 is the place for alternative-, goth- and industrial-themed nights, where you can dress as crazy as you like and dance the night away. With a drink list that can only be called extensive—there are more than 100 specialty concoctions—your tastebuds will never be bored. Come for the famous Fetish Ball—held on the final Saturday night of every month, always themed—and behold fetish demonstrations, vendors and the most interesting people-watching you’ll ever encounter. 451 S. 400 West, Salt Lake City, 801-534-0819, Facebook.com/ClubArea51SLC
Bogey’s Social Club
& Grill
36.1°
Bogey’s is on top of its game. The massive sports bar in Clearfield has everything from televised contests of athletic feats and contests to White Trash and Superhero parties. It’s also known for the balls-out Mardi Gras celebrations—there’s even a huge King chair just for the occasion. There’s Texas Hold ‘Em four nights a week, pool, darts, bingo, live music and food prepared by—get this—a real “executive chef” in a French Quarter dining area. This upscale VIP joint also provides a free shuttle. 22 E. 200 South, Clearfield, 801-773-9385, BogeysClub.com
Broadway Bar & Grill
43.0°
If you’ve got the hankerin’ for a wild night in Tooele, then cure that with a stop at the Broadway Bar & Grill. Only a short walk from historic Main Street, this club is the locals’ late-night party spot. On the weekends, the dance floor is packed with people getting lost in the sound of the DJs and live bands, and on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, patrons can belt out all of their favorite karaoke jams. While you’re there, try the Red Devil shot (raspberry vodka, vanilla liquor, pomegranate liquor and cranberry juice).
104 N. Broadway, Tooele, 435-843-0456
The Circle Lounge
40.9°
The covered patio and club-chic interior at The Circle Lounge are packed on Friday and Saturday nights with a well-dressed clientele who come to shake it to house, hip-hop and trance DJs. The savvy crowd can also take advantage of a full sushi bar between songs. The club is a great pick during the week, as well, with a performance every other Wednesday by local jazz dynamos The Joshua Payne Orchestra. 328 S. State, Salt Lake City, 801-531-5400
Club Allure
36.7°
Club Allure, located next to Interstate 15 in Sandy, offers what you wish you could find in all other clubs. Ready for the list? Go: Convenient, free parking. A 15,000-square-foot club with an interactive lit-up dance floor. Karaoke on the weekends (and Wednesdays). DJ Chrismo mixing up top 40 music and videos on 180-inch screens. Five bars serving inexpensive drinks, including PBR on tap. Reasonable cover charge (guys $5; ladies free). Kitchen open until 11 p.m., with daily lunch specials. A 4,000-square-foot beach-themed patio with fire pits and covered seating. Now you know why this bar hosts up to 1,000 souls on a weekend night. 8925 S. Harrison St. (255 West), Sandy, 801-566-7979, AllureSLC.com
Downstairs
38.8°
An intimate Vegas-style martini-bar-cum-DJ-venue, owned by That ‘70s Show star Danny Masterson (who occasionally moonlights at the club as DJ Mom Jeans), Downstairs is a chic gathering of nooks and sofas with a fireplace and wood décor to add to the upscale lounge charm. With a well-stocked bar, including classics such as mai tais and kamikazes, Downstairs is a bar that prizes its cool, laid-back vibe as much as its polished selection of vinyl spinners and roster of nationally touring DJs. 625 Main, Park City, 435-615-7200, DownstairsPC.com
Good Spirits
37.9°
All alone on a long stretch of 3300 South between SLC and West Valley City, Good Spirits is definitely a stalwart bar—and when you step inside this repurposed burger shop, it might seem like 1972 (more clubs should really utilize a tinsel curtain). Good Spirits features the usual good-times suspects of karaoke and games (poker on Sundays), as well as some tasty bar chow. 999 W. 3500 South, Salt Lake City, 801-263-0411
Habits
41.2°
Habits prides itself on looking great, from providing a clean environment to dressing to kill on Friday and Saturday nights (yes, they enforce the dress code). The recessed dance floor, presided over by DJ Scotty B, is cool and unusual—a boogie pit, if you will. It pairs well with the sound system, and it’s a good place to burn off the delicious calories from Habit’s full menu of steaks, sushi, burgers and appetizers. There’s poker on Mondays and pool all the time—and a great many locals convene here for sports, too. 832 E. 3900 South, Salt Lake City, 801-268-2228, ClubHabits.com
The Hotel Bar & Nightclub/Club Elevate
40.9°
Give your heart a break and let the three floors and 32,000 square feet of earth-shaking bass do the blood circulating for you at the Hotel, a swanky dance club born out of a restored Salt Lake City landmark. The Lobby, Elevate, The Ballroom, The Opium Lounge and The Game Room offer different strokes for different folks. Theme nights are held weekly, pool is free in The Game Room and you can watch the gyrating masses from above while smoking a hookah in The Ballroom. 155 W. 200 South, Salt Lake City, 801-478-4310, TheHotelElevate.com
Karamba
43.3°
Karamba is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights—and all they want to do is dance. In fact, stainless-steel stools outnumber tables so that patrons can make the most of the expansive floor and easily access the three full bars. Alas, there is no draft beer, but each station has coolers stocked with frosty bottles. The music, both live and DJ’ed, is typically Latin sounds like salsa and cumbia, but hip-hop owns Friday nights. Sunday is gay “Pachanga” night, and the club splits in two with spicy rhythm on one side and thug beats on the other. 1049 E. 2100 South, Salt Lake City, 801-637-5170
Metro Bar
47.0°
Metro earned its reputation for fun by serving up strong drinks and throwing great dance parties. Home of one the longest-running all-request nights (Dance Evolution every Thursday) and LGBT-friendly Fusion Saturdays, Metro Bar is one of the few spots in Salt Lake City that will not only play just about any song of your liking (even Justin Bieber) but also serve you a cocktail to enjoy it with that has some heft to it. If dancing’ ain’t your thing, then check out Dr. Sketchy’s Anti-Art School on the first Monday of the month. 540 W. 200 South, Salt Lake City, 801-652-6543, MetroBarSLC.com
One Nightclub/Lounge
35.4°
Want Vegas glam but on a Utah budget? Then head to One, a downtown nightclub that focuses on creating a unique experience. The “flair” bartenders are some of the best in the state. They juggle, blow whistles and perform choreographed dances. One is full of specialty evenings with hookah and salsa instruction on Thursdays, Stereo-Fridays and Cake on Saturdays, featuring lots of color with mash and house music. 180 W. 400 South, Salt Lake City, 801-979-0966, Facebook.com/OneSLC
Scallywags
39.8°
The former Saints & Sinners is now a “pirate bar” (we’re not sure what it means, either), but Scallywags is still a full-throttle dance-party club that rages in more square footage than first meets the eye. From the dance floor and VIP hookah lounge downstairs to the pool and foosball tables, stripper poles and State Street-view patio upstairs, the only thing missing here is Cap’n Jack Sparrow. 3040 S. State, Salt Lake City, 801-604-0869
Southern X-Posure
43.0°
Technically, this is still the O-Town location of Utah’s largest chain of adult clubs. Thing about that is, Ogden’s mayor is still cleanin’ up the town, so he put the kibosh on exotic dancers. That means this particular Southern X is just a “party bar” and will soon undergo a remodel and name change. Details are premature, but we’re told the drinks will stay “super cheap” and ladies get in free. There’s a lot of potential for this large room, especially as a live-music venue—we’re just sayin’. 1847 Wall Ave., Ogden, 801-394-4757
W Lounge
32.6°
W Lounge is a DJ’s “home base.” This downtown spot on West Temple is the home of City Weekly’s 2011 DJ of the year, Flash & Flare, and showcases local talent, as well as big-name out-of-town acts such as Kid Sister, Rye Rye, Rusko, The Hood Internet, Willy Joy and JWLS—to name a few. But besides great tunes and talent, W Lounge is one of the city’s only dance clubs to offer a healthy selection of organic beverages like $3 beers and $4 blueberry bombs. W gets the party started late from Wednesday to Saturday. 385 S. West Temple, Salt Lake City, 801-359-0637
Club Try-Angles
33.2°
This welcoming neighborhood gay hotspot—complete with ample room for booty-shaking, a comfortable patio and friendly service—will sate your need for non-boring drinks that couldn’t be more unusual. With drinks like Purple Cool-aid, Sweet Swamp Water and Va-jay, your tastebuds will be rocked. Try the Cyber Slut, a tasty combo of Malibu Black, peach schnapps, vanilla rum, raspberry rum and triple sec. Stop by on Sundays for barbecue on the patio. 251 W. 900 South, Salt Lake City, 801-364-3203, ClubTry-Angles.com
The Paper Moon
32.3°
Salt Lake City’s No. 1 (and only) lesbian bar (even though they like to say they’re more all-inclusive these days) proves that the girls really do like everything the boys do: dancing, karaoke, Texas Hold ‘Em, dart tourneys, beer, the works. This pink-and-corrugated-steel playground also hosts some of the most fabulous parties and theme nights around. 3737 S. State, Salt Lake City, 801-713-0678, Facebook.com/PaperMoonSLC No. 9 Coldest Beer
The Paper Moon
Jam
39.5°
This club is probably the chicest, sleekest, and gayest thing on the north end of town. It’s also one of the friendliest and nicest clubs in town, no matter what your persuasion. Cold beers pair well with regular DJs, karaoke and a manic dance floor. The club has also got one of the nicest interiors around (it helps when an owner has a passion for interior design). TV screens are placed handily above the urinals in the bathroom, and there’s a wall in the club that’s repainted with a new design and logo every weekend. 751 N. 500 West, Salt Lake City, 801-355-3479, JamSLC.com
The Trapp
39.4°
Reminiscent of a neo-cowboy bar, you’ll always find a cold beer but never a cold shoulder at the Trapp. A one-of-a-kind gay bar, the Trapp serves a variety of beers in Mason jars and its own form of Mind Erasers that are affectionately called the “house wine.” But what makes the Trapp unique is the “mirrored boots,” disco ball-esque cowboy boots. According to the manager, Frank, people come from all over the nation just to get a picture with the mirrored boots. 102 S. 600 West, Salt Lake City, 801-531-8727, TheTrappSLC.com
Sports Bars: Watch the Game Here
Batters Up
32.1°
Batters Up is a haven for all things game day, with everything that fans crave for spectating in style. The TVs in every corner cast their glow upon the abundance of tavern games and the classic American fare on Batters Up’s full menu, which surpass the expected necessities of a sports bar. Batters Up also hosts pool tournaments three nights a week, plus karaoke, wing cook-offs and a live hip-hop DJ on weekend nights. 1717 S. Main, Salt Lake City, 801-463-4996, BattersUpSportsBar.com No. 7 Coldest Beer
‘Bout Time Pub & Grub—Downtown
36.2°
Sports junkies rejoice: ’Bout Time Pub & Grub, located in The Gateway mall, has the brews, the eats and the many, many flat-screen HD TVs to make game day truly memorable. The sports-centric atmosphere is even reflected in the friendly bartenders, who wear jerseys in support of their favorite teams. The extensive menu includes pub-fare favorites like Scotch eggs, wings and beer-battered onion rings, but there are also gourmet burgers, flatbread pizza, fresh salads and more, which take the selection beyond typical bar food. 169 S. Rio Grande St., Salt Lake City, 801-456-4252, BoutTimePub.com
‘Bout Time Pub & Grub—Herriman
36.5°
Herriman may not be overflowing with places to bend an elbow, but maybe all you need is one really good one. Settle in to watch whatever game is of interest to you—with 21 screens available, odds are good you’ll be able to find it—and enjoy the menu of terrific sandwiches and other pub fare. Take a break to play a game of pool, or head outside to the patio. 5500 W. 13400 South, Suite C4, Herriman, 801-878-3600, BoutTimePub.com
‘Bout Time Pub & Grub—West Jordan
43.7°
It’s no surprise that, in the spirit of competition, the West Jordan iteration of the many ‘Bout Times in the Salt Lake Valley says that it’s the best. If you ask bartender Dave Middleton, it’s because of the enthusiastic, sports-junkie bar staff that includes him, Brandon and Tyson in the evening, and DeAndra and Dawn during the day. The patron-picked jukebox music pumped over the speakers helps get the adrenaline going at this lively spot, as does the steady stream of Cinemark 24 Jordan Landing theater-goers, who just can’t get enough hi-def screens. 3778 Center View Way, West Jordan, 801-280-1000, BoutTimePub.com
The Huddle Sports
Bar & Grill
35.7°
All sports bars are not created equal. The Huddle is more like a sports multiplex, sporting 26 HD TV screens in a setting that allows easy viewing from every seat. Every night offers unique food specials from the food menu, including 35-cent wings on Mondays and $1 “tacos & trivia” Tuesdays. And if you need a moment away from the enthusiastic fans, step outside to the roomy patio, a nice addition to a bar that already had plenty to brag about. 2400 E. Fort Union, Cottonwood Heights, 801-438-8300, SkiSaltLake.com/TheHuddle.htm
The Huddle Sports Bar & Grill
Carol’s Cove II
38.6°
Another one of those strip-mall clubs that’s far larger than it appears outside, Carol’s Cove II (does it really need the II if I no longer exists?), is a serious karaoke bar that also happens to be a great place to catch a little ball on the tube, enjoy live music on the weekends and chow down on some good, cheap eats (the garlic burger is semi-legendary on this stretch of State Street). 3424 S. State, Salt Lake City,
801-466-2683
The Dawg Pound Tavern
37.1°
It looks unassuming on the outside, and the interior is classic frat-house minimalism, but The Dawg Pound is arguably more “Metal!” than all other State Street bars combined—if your band has anger issues and a pointy, illegible logo, you’ve probably played here on the haloed stage right next to the front door. There’s pool and, of course, suds: The last four digits of the club’s phone number spell out B-E-E-R. 3550 S. State, Salt Lake City, 801-261-2337
Doolan’s Sports Bar
& Grill
39.0°
For all its family-friendly atmosphere and large dining area, this is at heart a classic sports bar with a laid-back funk. Grab one of the sound dogs—boxes that allow you to have the sound of whatever sport you are following on the multitude of channels blaring from your table—and watch your favorite sport. Or settle down at one of the two patios with a Summer Breeze—vodka and lemon splash—or a cold beer and the beer-battered dill pickles infused with jalapeño and bacon. You’ll be set for the duration. 738 Main, Park City, 435-649-0888, DoolansSportsBar.com
Fox Hole
38.5°
Regulars love this sports-oriented bar, but newcomers can carve their own niche by adding decorations to the walls. If your favorite team isn’t already represented by the many pinned-up flags and jerseys, you can bring in some paraphernalia. Then, stay for the big game, and come back the next afternoon to squelch a hangover with the signature Fox burger—a patty stuffed with jalapeños, cheese, bacon and onion. And if you “like” Fox Hole on Facebook, you’ll get $2 off. 7078 S. Redwood Road, West Jordan, 801-566-4653
Legends Sports Bar
34.1°
Adorned in sports swag and repping U flags, this sports bar is the place to go if you’re in the business of making friends. The large patio features comfortable couches, three fire pits and karaoke on Fridays. The outgoing staff is happy to get you a Grapeful Dead (similar to a Long Island iced tea) or piña colada martini. If you’re feeling lucky, stop by on Wednesdays for free poker night with a $250 cash prize and 50 cent wings. 677 S. 200 West, Salt Lake City, 801-355-3598, WhyLegends.com
Lumpy’s
38.8°
Lumpy’s is a two-floor sports bar that does everything right. That includes making sure your favorite athletic events are on a multitude of flat-screen TVs and that there’s plenty of other things to do, like poker, “bar” pong (love those loony liquor laws—you know what they mean), darts, pool, karaoke, live music (Thursdays) and dancing with DJs on Fridays and Saturdays. The food is also outstanding—we recommend huge helpings of nachos or the El Jefe appetizer sampler—oh, and the weekend brunch, served until 2 p.m. 3000 S. Highland Drive, Salt Lake City, 801-484-5597
Lumpy’s Downtown
37.4°
If you hate bar hopping, stop by Lumpy’s for the most comprehensive sports-bar experience in the downtown area. The huge, three-floor bar houses a game room basement complete with four pool tables, three foosball tables, and video games—not to mention countless TVs broadcasting about every sports game possible. After the game, head upstairs to the dimly lit social space to mingle with regulars and newcomers alike, or slide into a booth to catch some niche sports action on your own personal TV. Finally, mosey on up to the top floor for dancing to the live DJ. 145 W. Pierpont Ave., Salt Lake City, 801-883-8714, LumpysDowntownSLC.com
The Point After
33.3°
This bar, located in Murray’s Sports Mall, is an uptown find. After (or in place of) a gym workout, there’s no better place to congregate for great drinks, tempting (and even healthy) dishes, patio on two decks and live music Thursday, Friday and Saturday. “We’re the best-kept secret out of downtown,” says manager Doug Marlowe. With 30 HD flat-screens on two floors, The Point After sponsors numerous charity events and charters buses to U of U home games and golf leagues. But beyond sports, there’s a swanky nightclub vibe, where drinking, dining and dancing are the class acts. Food is made fresh; meats, including salad meats, are smoked in-house. You’ll also find Terrence Hansen playing his two-headed guitar here every Thursday. 5445 S. 900 East, Murray, 801-266-9552, PointAfterSLC.com
Scorez Sports Bar
33.2°
On the outside, it may seem like a hole-in-the-wall sports bar, but what sets Scorez apart is not only the cold beer but also the extremely hospitable staff. After a few visits, the bartenders will remember your name and your drink. The patrons and staff are down to earth and willing to chat or just leave you be, depending on your mood. Be sure to add a signed dollar bill to the hundreds of others taped up on the walls. 571 W. State, Lehi, 801-768-9085
Stockman’s Bar
34.6°
What seems to be a little roadside dive is, in fact—for now. Stockman’s is undergoing renovations that will transform it into a giant two-level party place later this summer. Until then, it’s a cozy spot for drinking Laytonites to watch sports, play pool or just get hammered. For the latter purpose, try the signature Vegas Bomb, which features four types of booze and Rockstar—and makes three servings for nine bucks. Post-remodel amenities will include a rooftop bar and live music. 80 N. Main, Layton, 801-544-8102
Summit Lounge
40.8°
Next to Osaka Sushi in Layton is this strip mall-ish sports bar, where you can order an Underbomb featuring locally made spirit Underground and Red Bull. Ka-boom. After that, if it’s Sunday or Thursday, you’ll probably feel like a little karaoke. Wednesdays and Thursdays feature local singer-songwriter Preston Creed, who draws big crowds. The Summit also serves food—including some righteous chile verde nachos—every day. Mondays feature Texas Hold ‘Em. 918 Heritage Park Blvd., Layton, 801-773-8784, Facebook.com/SummitLounge
All Star Lanes
Sports Club
39.2°
Eff it, dude, let’s go bowling. Even if you “don’t roll on Shabbos,” there’s plenty to do at this clean, friendly joint—namely, drink booze and watch other sports. There are 16 taps, a full liquor shelf (though liquor isn’t allowed back in the bowling alley) and plenty of HD TVs. Sundays are packed with football fans, and there’s free Texas Hold ‘Em that night as well as Monday and Thursdays. If you’re wasted, or plan on getting there, Allstar covers taxi fare, up to 15 miles, to and fro. 1776 W. 7800 South, West Jordan, 801-566-6627
All Star Sports Bar
32.0°
Look behind the Walmart in Tooele to find this ultra-mega sports-bar fortress. Located inside of the All Star Fun Center, it’s one of the few bars in Utah where you can enjoy a cocktail while bowling. There’s also laser tag and a full arcade, so, essentially, this place is like an adult Chuck E. Cheese. The best thing about it, they’ll pick you up from wherever you are in Tooele, drive you to the bar and even drag you home, for free! 1111 N. 200 West, Tooele, 435-833-0999, AllStarLanes.com No. 5 Coldest Beer
Club DJ’s
32.5°
After the big-box stores moved out, Club DJ’s has been the anchor store of this Taylorsville strip mall. And, in a sense, the huge bar is itself a big box (of fun). DJ’s boasts 13 electronic dartboards with Wednesday and Friday dart tournaments—locker rentals are available for those expensive Tungstens. Every three months, the Utah State Dart Tournament gets things uber-competitive, but folks can also unwind with weekly karaoke and Top 40 and hip-hop rolled out by DJ Xman and DJ Big Sexxy. 3849 W. 5400 South, Taylorsville, 801-964-8575, ClubDJsUtah.com
Duffy’s Tavern
34.0°
Just a long ball away from Spring Mobile Ballpark, Duffy’s is a mecca for the diamond’s devout. Pregame here as the Bees take BP, then return to soothe your heckle-weary throat with an icy postgame brew. Even after the boys of summer go into hibernation, this is an idyllic neighborhood sports bar, with charming staff, cozy booths, a big-screen TV, darts, pool tables and a menu that includes 17 generously filled sandwiches. So root, root, root for the home team, but if they don’t win, at least there’s Duffy’s. 932 S. Main, Salt Lake City, 801-355-6401, DuffysTavernSLC.com
Fats Grill & Pool
37.9°
It’s all about pool at Fats, which has seven well-maintained tables. Music is probably a close second. The giant paintings of Jimmy Page and Jerry Garcia are your first clue; the next is the 98-capacity music venue downstairs where local bands play on Fridays and Saturdays. Fats’ burgers and pizza are also renowned for ridiculous deliciousness and, of course, there are several great beers on tap, including locals like Wyld, Sum’r, Baba and Golden Spike Hefeweizen. 2182 S. Highland Drive, Salt Lake City, 801-484-9467, FatsGrillSLC.com
Johnny’s on Second
42.2°
Is everything a game to you? Good, Johnny’s on Second should be right up your alley. Not even “Fast Eddie” Felson could lose at these pool tables, which are free until 7 p.m. every day. Other diversions include shuffleboard, pinball, electronic darts and NFL Blitz ‘99. Poker nights are held Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays; trivia on Mondays, karaoke on Wednesdays; and live music is hosted on Saturdays. TVs are plentiful, drinks are cheap, and pizza and sandwiches can be bought at the bar. 165 E. 200 South, Salt Lake City, 801-746-3334, JohnnysOnSecond.com
Jupiter Bowl
36.2°
Part of the New Park complex near Kimball Junction, this upscale bowling alley understands that adults want toys to play with just as much as their kids do. With 16 lanes for bowling, a video-game arcade, pool tables, an intriguing cocktail list and a few local brews on tap, Jupiter is the perfect night out when you just want to play. And being Park City, they do things with just a little more flair. Instead of the typical bowling-alley fare of gooey pizza and soft drinks, for example, Jupiter goes for fried green beans, fish tacos and cubanas. Yum! 1090 Center Drive, Park City, 435-658-2695, JupiterBowl.com
Lindzee O’Michaels Mixologists
36.9°
There’s an anarchic spirit to Lindzee’s, exemplified by the 6-inch-long braided beard that bartender Sasquatch—so named for his loping walk, he says—sports, along with an infectious grin and friendly manner. “We try to give people reasons to come back,” he says. There’s a vast variety of games, from ping-pong to Australian foosball; great local bands like Dirtbags Don’t Die; and, on Sundays, the opportunity to bring in your iPod and share your music with everyone else. You could easily spend an endless array of days and nights in Lindzee’s and never get bored. 825 Main, Park City, 435-658-1183, LindzeeOMichaels.com
Maggie McGee’s
36.7°
On either side of Maggie McGee’s narrow entryway are vintage sporting goods for both winter and summer activities—so you know this Irish pub takes its sports seriously. The bartenders even wear referee uniforms. Karaoke is offered nightly and Geeks Who Drink trivia happens every Tuesday, both of which fit right in with Maggie’s friendly, competitive spirit. The kitchen serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, and the staff recommends the Mad Maggie sandwich (roast beef, chipotle-barbecue sauce, jalapeños, pepper-jack cheese, bacon) and a cold, alcoholic lime rickey. 6253 S. Highland Drive, Salt Lake City, 801-273-9899, MaggieMcGees.com
Oscar’s Social Club
39.4°
If the free UFC fights don’t already draw you to this State Street hangout, Oscar’s Social Club will lure you in with one of its other offerings—DJs on Fridays and Saturdays, and poker three nights a week on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Thursday is also karaoke night, so if you don’t know when to fold ‘em, at least you can sing some Kenny Rogers to amp you up for next week’s antes. 8136 S. State, Midvale, 801-566-3222
West Valley Billiards
41.2°
There’s something about drinking a brew or two that aids in seeing the geometry of pool-ball angles. Beer is billiards magic. Aside from the kegs of eight draft beers at West Valley Billiards, not much has changed since it opened in 1979. It’s one of two places in the state to play golf (not the walk-ruining, sand-trap-ridden sport) on a professional-size table. And, of course, WVB offers a bevy of regulation-size billiards tables on the bar side and smaller ones (for the kiddos) on the all-ages side. 4669 W. 3500 South, West Valley City, 801-968-2200
Highlander Club
37.9°
It’s possible to miss the Highlander, what with the construction and that funky Highland/Van Winkle intersection, but once you find it, you’ll be back. It’s a clean, comfortable cubby hole, and you can get refreshing signature drinks like the Berry Bomb (essentially an Arnold Palmer with raspberry tea, vodka and lemonade) and play free pool on Sundays and Wednesdays. The main event here is karaoke seven nights a week, 365 nights a year. To nourish your vocal cords, order some sushi (it’s made fresh right next door at Akasaka Sushi), Prime rib, halibut and burgers—the menu varies daily. 6194 S. Highland Drive, 801-277-8251, Salt Lake City, HighlanderUtah.com
The Tavernacle
Social Club
35.7°
Famous for being the first piano bar in Utah, the Tavernacle may seem a bit slow on the weekdays, but come Friday and Saturday, it’s standing-room only. The Tav specializes in anything with rye whiskey and can make a mean Old Fashioned. The service is always friendly and the staff willing to lend an ear—if you can be heard over the dueling pianos. 201 E. 300 South, Salt Lake City, 801-833-0570, Tavernacle.com
Keys on Main
38.7°
This dueling piano bar will put anyone in a good mood. Even your shy friends will fall in love with the comedic pianists and sweetheart bar staff. Stop by for the signature cocktail “It’s Britney, Bitch” and karaoke with a live band on Monday nights. On weekends, the place is packed with visitors from the southern end of the valley, but Keys will fill any evening with nostalgic songs that will get even the stuffiest crowd singing along. 242 S. Main, Salt Lake City, 801-363-3638, KeysOnMain.com
Keys on Main
Uncle Bart’s
39.6°
Uncle Bart’s is a no-frills dive bar where newcomers get treated like regulars. It’s perfect for making your karaoke debut—on Tuesdays or Thursdays, just show up and sing; there’s no daunting stage, just a casual opening of chairs. A few feet away, a small but appreciative crowd will cheer you on. If that’s not enough, there’s live music on the weekends and pool and darts to be enjoyed while sipping a cool mug of beer. Don’t be surprised if you bump into local musicians known to rehearse at the nearby Downtown Music warehouse. They might even show up for the Sunday jam session. 837 S. Main, Salt Lake City, 801-532-9068
‘Bout Time Pub & Grub—Holladay
39.6°
Cozier and less chaotic than many sports-bar establishments, this is still a great location to grab a hearty meal and enjoy watching your favorite game with friends. Forget about unforgiving metal chairs—this patio offers a comfortable couch for relaxing away from the cheers of the fans. Or, you join the crowd inside to compete in the video trivia contests. 6522 Big Cottonwood Canyon Road, Holladay, 801-733-0228, BoutTimePub.com
Club 366
34.8°
The cutesy log-cabin exterior belies Club 366’s jack-of-all-trades interior. Regulars can belly up to the main bar (with a huge selection of local drafts on tap) and get sassed by the high-energy servers while noshing on one of the famous “Patti” melts. Sports fans can keep an eye on UFC fights or baseball on one of the 33(!) screens. Or, keep heading toward the back to shake it on the huge dance floor. But our favorite feature is the back patio bar, which is home to DJs on the weekend and “date night” Tuesdays, when it takes on a bistro feel. 366 36th St., Ogden, 801-395-1517, Facebook.com/Club366
The Garage
44.6°
Nothing adds to the gritty character of a roadhouse bar like surviving a close-call fire that burned down parts of the building. Though The Garage’s outsides may still smell like fireworks, this rollicking live-music venue has risen from the ashes no worse for the wear—in fact, it’s adopted the slogan “the hottest bar in town” in honor of its fiery renovation. Celebrate its re-opening by kicking back on the huge gravel back patio in the shade of the refinery, or head inside, where cold brews pair well with hot music. Patrons can enjoy a casual atmosphere and nearly nightly samplings of roots, blues and rock music from local and national touring artists. 1199 Beck St., Salt Lake City, 801-521-3904, GarageOnBeck.com
Goodtimes Saloon
43.3°
What every good bar needs is a backyard. Not just a patio, but a fenced-off area where patrons can run amok or play volleyball. Goodtimes has that—in fact, it’s pretty much a park, and they make good use of it all summer long with bonfires, beer tastings and casual games of horseshoes. Indoor activities include booty-quaking DJ nights, live music, pool leagues and tourneys. It’s also State Liquor Store-adjacent, which seems counter intuitive from a business perspective, but not from that of a patron.
641 W. 600 North, Layton, 801-544-8717, Facebook.com/GoodTimesSaloon
Sky Blue
33.2°
It’s not the easiest place to find, but once you’ve navigated the Sky Lodge’s lobby, gone up the elevator and along a lengthy corridor, the payoff is huge. Sky Blue has simply the best patio in Park City. Where else can you drink in a hot tub, or lounge around on sofas under the clear blue sky? With fire pits, heating lamps and blankets for the winter, and a breeze—as if on demand—for the summer, this is one rooftop you might be tempted to keep all to yourself. 201 Heber Ave., Park City 435-658-2500, TheSkyLodge.com
Sky Blue
The Green Pig Pub
39.3°
No little piggy, this wild boar of a bar is an amalgam of everything you’d expect from a live-music venue and a high-end sports bar. Whether you’ve come to dig Monday’s Blues Jam or root on Real Salt Lake, there’s not a bad view in the house. A separate bar serves Salt Lake City’s only rooftop patio, from which you can take in the city’s urban landscape and the more distant Wasatch Range. Live music is booked four times a week, trivia is held twice weekly, and omelettes and waffles are made to order during the Green Pig’s famous Sunday breakfast buffets. 31 E. 400 South, Salt Lake City, 801-532-7441, TheGreenPigPub.com
Hog Wallow
43.7°
Inside, it feels like the kind of rustic lodge where you’d expect to find an epic character like Beowulf sharing tales of heroic deeds—assuming Beowulf could also enjoy live music four nights a week while doing so. He could. But it’s what’s outside Hog Wallow that’s the star attraction: The multiple-award-winning, gorgeous, tree-filled patio area, complete with waterfall, makes it feel as though you’ve escaped the world. Try the tasty appetizers, whether your pleasure is inside or out. 3200 E. Big Cottonwood Canyon Road, Salt Lake City, 801-733-5567, TheHogWallow.com
No Name Saloon
38.2°
The word “eclectic” screams from every direction in this bar, from the beaten copper bar to the shuffleboard table to the owner’s curious collection of oddities hanging on the wall—”expensive junk,” says one member of the wait-staff. It’s a beer-and-a-shot hall, but with elevated ambitions, claiming both the biggest patio in town and a young, friendly and fast staff who keep the drinks coming in a bar that keeps it kicking into the early hours. 447 Main, Park City, 435-649-6667, NoNameSaloon.net
The 19th Hole at Copper Golf Club
37.5°
There’s nothing like a public golf course to accompany a great patio. When the weather warms up, The 19th Hole is more than a great place to grab a cheap frosty brew after a round of golf—every Friday and Saturday, the massive outdoor patio opens up to live bands, DJs and anyone who’s willing to cut some rugs. While you’re there, try the Magna Tramp shot (Amaretto, raspberry liquor, sweet & sour and lime). 8975 W. 2600 South, Magna, 801-252-8940
The Puck
39.8°
The coolest part of this three-level sports establishment is the rooftop bar. Overlooking the Maverik Center, it’s a spot to come chill before or after a Grizzlies game or a high-energy rock show. If the weather outside is frightful, there are huge semi-circle booths downstairs in which to lounge as you gaze upon the big screen above the bar or the dancing souls getting down to DJ Birdman on the weekend. 3396 Decker Lake Drive, West Valley City, 801-975-7825, ThePuck.org
The Sidecar Bar & Grill
43.1°
In an otherwise largely deserted mini-mall, The Sidecar is an oasis of urbane classicism, topped by a patio view of Park City’s Main Street that lets you people-watch and imbibe in comfort. Its mix of elegant martinis, ruggedly individualistic choice of beers—Lagunitas IPA was just being delivered when we dropped by—and Fat Kid Pizza make this bar a sampler of Park City’s ski-town sensibilities. 333 Main, Park City, 435-645-7468
The Veranda Social Club
42.4°
Remember Tony’s on Highland Drive? Alas, it is no more. Instead, proprietor Tony Smith has kicked things up a notch with the opening of The Veranda Social Club (which many recall as the former location of the Rivers in Murray). Perhaps now, with Smith’s plans for a four-star restaurant/classy social club, it can realize its true potential. The full menu includes Italian made-from-scratch pizza, paninis, salad, pastas (even gnocchi) as well as salmon or rib-eye from 11 a.m. daily. The bar will feature a 12-tap keg system, live music and a house DJ. But the pièce de résistance is the spacious creekside patio—there’s no better summer hangout. 4760 S. 900 East, Murray, 801-268-1399, Facebook.com/TheVerandaNightclub
The White Owl
34.9°
The biggest, best and almost only bar in Logan (Mulligans is still a private club) doesn’t look like much from the outside, but it’s huge. Downstairs, there’s the main bar, a back bar and a cavernous pool hall—which also has plenty of dart boards. A staircase leads up to a spacious, backyard-deck-style patio bar; locals eagerly count down to the opening of the deck each summer. Throw in burgers made fresh from locally butchered meat to go with ice-cold beer, pool/darts leagues, karaoke and occasional live music, and you have a party.
36 W. Center St., Logan, 435-753-9165
Bikers & Other Beautiful People
Barbary Coast
36.7°
Whether it’s raising funds for a worthy cause or simply providing you with a beer to toast, Barbary Coast—a family-run biker bar with a philanthropic twist—gives you that same warm-and-fuzzy feeling you get while riding your Harley to the joint. No motorcycle? No problem. Everyone is welcome at the Coast, where you can get all the cold suds you need plus food offerings that’ll keep you coming back. Case in point: the Thursday $8 rib-eye steak special is not to be taken lightly. If this big guy doesn’t fill you up, pair it up with a heaping order of hand-cut french fries. 4242 S. State, Salt Lake City, 801-265-9889
Copper King
40.1°
This Magna joint is a regular stop on biker rides. With $1.50 Miller Lite bottles, three pool tables, air hockey, darts and live music on the weekends, Copper King is a great place to get loose on the cheap. Cutting off your T-shirt sleeves is optional, but make sure to try their signature $4 Scooby Snacks shot (Malibu rum, melon rum and milk, served chilled). 9071 W. 2700 South, Magna, 801-252-1226
Cruzrs Saloon
34.9°
You may wonder if “Cruzrs” is the creative spelling of a bar for alternative lifestylers. But in fact, there are plenty of bikers that frequent the club and a diverse crowd besides. It’s a big place with a dance floor abutted by a massive boob tube. The prime hangout space, though, is the patio where the trash can has a basketball hoop and there’s a towering red Tuff Shed that houses high tables and keeps smokers warm in the winter. Bonus amenities include Cruzrs’ neighbor: the all-vintage Atomic Arcade is open late. 3943 S. Highland Drive, Salt Lake City, 801-272-1903
Cruzrs Saloon
Filling Station
33.1°
This spot breaks all the of stereotypes typically associated with biker bars. It’s as if the new owner, Christine Gyllenskog, gutted a high-performance hot-rod garage and transformed it into a spacious and sporty roadhouse bar. If you’re there on a Monday night, make time for poker night and enjoy a full steak dinner for $8. Or, if you want to get a li’l boozy, then try the signature Green Cream shot (made with Hypnotic and Peach Schnapps). 8979 W. 2700 South, Magna, 801-647-7075
Rock Bottom Lounge
34.2°
What once was a residential brick home is now the “Home of the Fat Bastard.” That’s a Philly, mind you, and they’re proud of it. Many of the patrons are bikers, and a sign welcomes them—but not any bad attitudes. Patch-wearers are welcome, Rock Bottom says, but the only beef should be on the burgers or the Bastard. Evidently, they obey, because this is always a nice, and snug, place to hang out. 317 Washington Blvd., Ogden, 801-621-2070
The Bar in Sugarhouse
36.7°
This long-standing Sugar House fixture—the cabin next to Fat’s—once housed The Tap Room. Now, it’s basically the same place, a beer-only tavern that attracts visitors from across the country due to its age (est. 1947) and Swiss chalet construction. The Bar in Sugarhouse sticks to 4.0 beers, but you will find some local craft beers from Uinta and Shades of Pale. A Golden Tee machine gets plenty of use from the regulars; otherwise, all you have to do is drink beer and watch TV. Ahhhh … 2168 S. Highland Drive, 801-485-1232
‘Bout Time Pub & Grub
37.4°
These little neighborhood sports bars are popping up everywhere. This one occupies the former Club Sandpiper on Highland Drive, so it’s more neighborhood-y than the others. You can expect televised sporting events, pool and a selection of fine pub grub without worrying about croaky karaoke singers or anything other than pool, darts and video games. 4002 S. Highland Drive, 801-278-5100, BoutTimePub.com
Frankie & Johnnie’s
41.1°
To become a regular at Frankie & Johnnie’s, you’ll have to get by Mitzy the guard dog first. Don’t be fooled by her less-than-intimidating name; Mitzy is 8 pounds of pure ferocity. Once you make it past her, you’ll find cheap drinks, karaoke and pool tables backed by a patio that will make you forget you just stumbled in from State Street. Should you become a regular for life, maybe F&J will offer you a birthday barbecue like they do their elite regulars. 3 E. 4800 South, Murray, 801-263-0072
Frankie & Johnnie's
Cheers To You—Midvale
37.9°
If Cheers’ Coach Pantusso had a real-life incarnation, it would be Rick at Cheers To You—Midvale. He’s been bartending for longer than most of his customers have been alive. His signature cocktail will make you forget the rough day you just had. After a stein or two—don’t even ask for a “pint”—give the claw machine a whirl and see if you can score that flat-brimmed Yankees cap you’ve always wished you had. 7642 S. State, Midvale, 801-566-0871, CheersToYouMidvale.com
Chuckles Lounge
39.9°
Pull up a stool at this cozy hole in the wall after a long day at work and bask in the unpretentious atmosphere while downing a cold one. Or, stop by in the middle of the day for the Wednesday lunch specials. With cheap drinks and lots of activities, including free pool every Tuesday and Sunday and free darts every Wednesday, Chuckles Lounge could become your regular chill-out spot. 221 W. 900 South, Salt Lake City, 801-532-1721
City Limits Tavern
43.6°
Every city should have some idiosyncratic dive bars: City Limits is Provo’s. An unpretentious hangout for either a night out with friends or to be left alone to nurse a beer, the crowd here is often post-college age, though anyone can find their spot at the bar or karaoke machine. Be on the lookout for crotchety characters who’ll be the highlight of your visit. Beer pong and Jell-O shots complement a satisfying beer and cocktail menu. 440 W. Center St., Provo, 801-374-2337, CityLimitsTavern.com
Granite Club
32.0°
The Granite Club is a scruffy place in its golden years, a cool little dive in a nice part of town. There’s one pool table, one foosball table and a shuffleboard unit that’s lovingly maintained every two to four weeks—a point of pride with the staff. On Saturdays, there’s live acoustic music, and, during the summer, they’ll occasionally grill burgers on the back patio, which has serious tiki-bar potential. But, mostly, “We put the capital ‘D’ in ‘dive’!” says bartender Chance. 3820 S. Highland Drive, Salt Lake City, 801-277-9018 No. 6 Coldest Beer
Green Whale
37.9°
Though it’s nestled just yards away from the South Ogden commercial paradise of the Newgate Mall and Costco, the Green Whale is about as low-key of a hangout you can get. There’s a poker table, but no specific poker night—just stop by if you want to start a game. An ancient TV behind the bar is tuned to the programming of the bartender’s choice—when City Weekly stopped by, it was a highly addictive true-crime channel. It’s the perfect place to duck into to escape the hustle and bustle of Riverdale Road. 3576 Riverdale Road, South Ogden
Jackalope Lounge
37.6°
A shrine to irreverence, you’ll be overwhelmed by kitsch and contradictions at the Jackalope Lounge (more bar than lounge, at that). Stuffed jackalopes and crushed beer cans wear antlers on wall mounts, but the flippant atmosphere belies a serious devotion to crafting good times for all comers. DJs man the turntables from Thursday to Saturday, the kitchen offers savory sandwiches, and for $6, you can guzzle a High Life ($1) and a shot of Jim Beam ($2) and Jager ($3). An odd medley but somehow, here, it works. 372 S. State, Salt Lake City, 801-359-8054, Facebook.com/JackalopeLounge
O’Shucks Bar & Grill
39.8°
From the peanut shells on the floor to the cheerfully loud staff, O’Shucks takes pride in being Park City’s only dive bar. They’re all about taking care of the locals with unpretentious food—burgers with cheddar or Swiss for $3, for example, everyday till 5 p.m.—and drinks, like the Cowboy, which involves a refreshing mix of Coke and 151 Rum. This is where you come to drink and chew the fat with—or spill your guts to—sympathetic bar staff. 427 Main, Park City 435-645-3999
Old Man’s Saloon
34.0°
Sports are king here, as evidenced by the trophy and memorabilia cases near the front door. Old Man’s Saloon boasts pretty good softball and bowling squads—and clientele who love their Utah Jazz (so many bobbleheads). It’s a family-style joint, in that the staff hangs around even during their off hours. The long bar usually accommodates everyone, but overflow can belly up to high tables with padded rails and shoot either pool or the proverbial substance. 215 Washington Blvd., Ogden, 801-399-3231
Swedetown Pub
44.5°
This Beck Street bar is a great industrial-neighborhood joint where even a stranger can drink like a local. Cheap brews will keep you rooted to your barstool and allow you to appreciate a slower, more contemplative drinking pace. It’s the kind of environment where drinking and thinking aren’t interrupted by noise and distractions, other than perhaps the clack of the odd pool ball. 1461 Beck St., Salt Lake City, 801-532-9282
Three Alarm Saloon
46.1°
Don’t stand too close to the bar when the alarm sounds at the Three Alarm Saloon; you’re apt to singe your eyebrows. The fire-breathing bartenders will put on a show for you unlike any other. If it gets too hot inside, head out to the patio, where you can sit under the sky or avoid the rays in a covered spot. If you get there after the kitchen closes—or get hungry after last call—the $1 tacos at the taco cart outside are among the best in town. 7273 S. State, Midvale, 801-562-5252
Tradewinds
49.2°
A host of regulars dot this small bar on any given night. Quietly tucked away next to Big City Bowl, it’s a great place to celebrate after throwing down the turkeys or, alternatively, to drown your gutterball sorrows. Maybe bowling isn’t your thing? Try your pool-shark skills at one of the bi-monthly pool tournaments. 8000 S. State, Midvale, 801-562-1775
Bourbon House
31.8°
What makes the Bourbon House (in the basement space that was originally the infamous D.B. Cooper’s and, later, Monk’s House of Jazz) the watering hole of choice for downtown dwellers and workers? The bar’s after-work crowd and weekender devotees would likely echo a bartender’s unofficial slogan: “Same prices, better bar.” We echo that. No dive itself, Bourbon House has dive prices but also delicious daily food and drink specials, as well as a full menu, plus modern, upscale décor in an underground tavern atmosphere. And it doesn’t stop there: The Bourbon House also offers ample pool tables, karaoke, live music and DJs—oh, and Olympia beer. Cool squared. 19 E. 200 South, Salt Lake City, 801-746-1005, BourbonHouseSLC.com No. 4 Coldest Beer
Cheers To You
45.3°
Cheers takes enormous and well-deserved pride in its solidified status as a neighborhood bar. Across the sizable counter, bartenders and patrons hold conversations that occasionally drown out the plentiful TVs and jukebox jams. Outsiders can walk into the pub and easily find themselves pulled into the camaraderie. Rely on Cheers for free pool on Thursdays, acclaimed karaoke on Fridays and an always inviting, unpretentious air. 315 S. Main, Salt Lake City, 801-575-6400
Murphy’s Bar & Grill
33.3°
The bartenders at Murphy’s will serve not only just about any kamikaze you can dream up (even a Jameson kamikaze), but they will also pour cold drafts from near and far including, naturally, from the Emerald Isle. This nearly subterranean lair has a quiet lounge feel for post-work drinkers but become lively by night. Don’t forget to order a specialty burger or a platter of spaghetti (though it’s not “Irish” spaghetti). 160 S. Main, Salt Lake City, 801-359-7271, MurphysBarAndGrillUT.com
O’Shucks
38.9°
Long before the new City Creek mall, right across the street, was even conceived, a small basement bar beneath a beautiful redstone began what is now one of its defining factors: a friendly attitude. It’s not just the outgoing bartenders that make O’Shucks feel like home, but the talkative regulars who want everyone to have a good time. Stop by on a Wednesday night to pick up a schooner (a big-ass goblet of beer) or half-pound burger for only $5. O’Shucks shares space with Ahh Sushi, so you can also trade your suds for some sake and seafood. 22 E. 100 South, Salt Lake City, 801-596-8600
The Republican
42.2°
“Irish” isn’t just a theme here that turns the place into St. Patrick’s Day Disneyland. This is the kind of pub where the regulars can enjoy a game of real steel-tip darts between pints, where the TV shows European soccer matches (when it’s not time for a Real Salt Lake watch party) and where the friendly regulars help ensure (in the words of one bartender) “no drama.” Enjoy the weekly Monday-night pub quiz—or, if your heart can take it, Free Bacon Wednesdays. 917 S. State, Salt Lake City, 801-595-1916
The Spot
37.7°
From one angle, it seems like a place out of time, with a ‘60s-ish exterior outside and black booths and lava lamps inside. Yet it’s also the kind of place where a cooler in the corner boasts an array of high-end beers like Gulden Draak from Belgium or the X96 Radio from Hell Red as Hell Ale. That juxtaposition perfectly fits a clientele that mixes an after-work crowd of neighborhood professionals (including local musicians taking a break from rehearsing at the nearby Downtown Music warehouse), post-Bees-game sports fans and younger regulars getting their weekend on. 870 S. Main, Salt Lake City, 801-355-7768
Wasted Space Bar
41.8°
Open seven days a week, Wasted Space is a tree-shrouded State Street watering hole, whose powerful air conditioners and $2 shots all day, every day, make it a perfect after-work destination. Wasted Space regularly features DJs and live music of every genre on a small stage in the middle of the bar, as well as karaoke on Mondays. 342 S. State, Salt Lake City, 801-792-3271, Facebook.com/WastedSpace.bar
Historic Place
42.9°
While there is a jukebox, a sports-centric TV and even a small patio out back, most of the action at Historic Place takes place at the bar, where the bartender banters with the regulars stopping by for a quick pint on the way home from work. The name and kitschy neon signage act as a lure for visitors and tourists, as well, who can leave their mark on the bar by writing their names on dollar bills (bring more than one—it’s cash-only) to be added to the collection taped to the wall and ceiling. 162 25th St., Ogden, 801-394-6233
Lamplite Lounge
30.6°
The Lamplite starts where 24th Street begins to ascend, so its patio gives a scenic look of a city that’s a work in progress. Inside, it’s clean, air-conditioned and well-lit. During City Weekly’s visit, the clientele broke into a brief, impromptu food fight that we’re told is uncommon but indicative of the camaraderie here. A full menu boasts delicious Greek souvlaki, as well as burgers, wings and plenty of fried foodstuffs. Fridays feature karaoke, and the many electronic darts machines are the center of attention on the Sunday/Thursday league nights. 455 24th St., Ogden,
801-399-3525 No. 1 Coldest Beer (tie)
Lighthouse Lounge
33.6°
This big ol’ sports bar is beer-only, but promises “good times and good friends” to go with its frosted barley pops and eats, like the specialty stuffed burger. Its offerings include pool, darts, video games, television and—if you’ve guzzled a few and feel like bursting into song—there’s karaoke every Friday at 9 p.m. Regulars return for the aforementioned company and friendly wait staff. 130 25th St., Ogden, 801-392-3901
The Fifth
38.8°
Just off of (or right before, depending) Exit 317 in Bountiful is this deceptively cool little place that the staff estimates is the third- or fourth-oldest watering hole in the state. It’s longer than it is deep, with a beautiful stone bar that stretches wide and stays strong in the face of bumping hip-hop bass. Regulars appreciate signature drinks like the Astro-Pop and take advantage of four nights of karaoke per week, with a Thursday “Powerball” jackpot for the winner. If you’re hungry, check out the hot gwack dog, which comes grilled with guacamole, cheese and onions. 980 N. 500 West, Bountiful, 801-295-9983
The Fifth
Mulligan’s
32.4°
Tucked away just off of Logan’s Main Street, Mulligan’s is like Alice’s rabbit hole, where you can disappear for a few cold ones with friends you’ve yet to meet. The bar is tiny but well-stocked, and the room is spacious and inviting. After trying a Caitlin’s Candy, one of bartender Caitlin’s signature drinks, you can decide if Mulligan’s bartenders are, in fact, “the hottest,” as Caitlin claims. One caveat: Mulligan’s remains a private club … but its charms outweigh the membership fee. 33 Federal Ave., Logan, 435-752-5511
No. 10 Coldest Beer tie
Sandtrap Club
36.3°
The staff here says, rather cryptically, that the a.m. and p.m. clientele is like “day and night.” We couldn’t stick around to compare and contrast the diurnal/nocturnal fauna, but here’s what we know: The dimly lit cubby hole has a late-’60s, early-’70s living/rumpus-room feel (they estimate it opened in 1968) with a big TV in the corner (and three more behind the bar), pool tables, Golden Tee and a pinball machine. The food is cheap, with $5 steaks or Philly cheesesteaks on Mondays and Saturdays and a weekend brunch (their Pancake shots probably pair well). There’s also live music Thursday through Monday. 2851 Washington Blvd., Ogden, 801-394-4446
Hidden Away But Worth Looking For
Bongo Lounge
36.0°
Perhaps you’ve never noticed Bongo nestled among the fancy furniture stores on Highland Drive. Venture inside, though, and you’ll fall in love with this tidy, surprisingly awesome spot. A row of semi-private booths lines the north wall if you want to keep to yourself or your group, or there’s a three-sided bar centered on the east wall if you feel like socializing with the diverse crowd. Pool, video games, a dart board and a jukebox are there for your pleasure, and the bartender on duty says, “We have good, cheap drinks all the time.” 2965 S. Highland Drive, Salt Lake City, 801-466-1577
Corner Pocket
30.6°
You could walk right by this place and not even know it’s there. But don’t let the lack of a sign scare you away. As one of the loyal patrons pointed out, “I come here because people don’t get rowdy.” And he’s right—this downtown neighborhood joint is full of friendly Tooeleans and cheap frosty suds. Besides the cold brews, try one of the signature shots, like the Sun-kissed Bomb (orange vodka, peach Schnapps and Red Bull). 48 E. Vine, Tooele,
435-882-2521 No. 1 Coldest Beer (tie)
Club Rendezvous
41.8°
Be forewarned: As you walk through the triangle-shaped entrance of Club Rendezvous, if you ring the bell hung just above the antique-looking beer-cooler doors, you buy everyone a drink. A bartender related a story of a woman who decided to clang it and rang herself up a $400 bill—drinks for everyone playing darts and pool inside the joint as well as the horseshoe playin’ folks out on the lovely, huge patio. 1900 W. 4100 South, West Valley City, 801-972-4264
Do Drop Inn
33.6°
The Do Drop Inn shares a signature drink with its neighbor, Linda Lou’s, located in the same building across from Hill Air Force Base. The MiG (dig the Air Force reference) contains Crown Royal, grape Pucker and Sprite and is popular among its patrons, who are mainly non-AF locals. Its other charms include a loud jukebox, foosball, “really good burgers,” friendly staff and frosty mugs, as well as occasional live music and open-mic nights. 2971 N. Hillfield Road, Layton,
801-776-9697
Donkey Tails Cantina
41.4°
There’s a special kind of vibe to a place that decorates its pot shelves not with pots, but with motorcycles. This Draper lounge/sports bar caters to a casual after-work crowd attracted by the full menu of the attached Guadalahonky’s Mexican restaurant, plus daily specials like 50 cent taco Tuesdays. But you can also relax on the patio by the fire pit, or enjoy live acoustic-music performances on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays for a completely different brand of relaxation. 136 E. 12300 South, Draper, 801-571-8134, Guadalahonkys.com/Donkey_Tails.html
Down Under Club
36.5°
This basement bar occupies the lower level of a building that also houses a Mexican restaurant and veterans’ hangout. Once inside, the atmosphere is so inviting you’ll forget you’re underground. Six TVs show sports and are “always on.” There’s also pool, shuffleboard, darts and video games, but the real fun is outside on the patio. With colorful Christmas lights strewn all over the tall wooden fence and awning—as well as Down Under’s own dedicated jukebox, this is one of the best, wonderfully divey patios in Utah. Down Under is known to stage goldfish races, and Lenny’s Café delivers food until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Exclaim your excitement by ordering Down Under’s signature cocktail, called Oh F—k Yeah. 544 W. 400 North, West Bountiful, 801-397-0758
Linda Lou’s Time
for Two
33.8°
Linda Lou’s is secreted behind another bar, the Do Drop Inn, which is behind a 7-11—so it’s a prime escape spot. Linda Lou’s shares a unique cocktail with the Do Drop called the MiG (INCOMING!) which mixes Crown Royal, grape Pucker and Sprite. It looks like your buddy’s basement bar, only it’s a lot bigger and, during the summer, sleepy. That’s a plus in our book because escape means escape, y’know? 2981 N. 350 West, Layton, 801-825-0311
Lofte’s
42.9°
Need a drink before or after a flight to strengthen your resolve? This airport-adjacent bar and grill offers a bounty of good grub and tasty beverages. Be advised, this is not just a fly-by drinking and dining spot—this place bustles with business travelers drawn in by the cold beer, tempting eats and pleasant attitude from the bar staff. 2106 W. North Temple, Salt Lake City, 801-741-1188
Lone Star Saloon
39.3°
The old-timey tunes playing over the jukebox, dark wood and leather of the bar, cowboys-and-Indians decorations on the wall, vintage bar mirrors and liquor-brand signage all give this saloon a definitive Western feel. But one thing really seals the deal: The two or three bullet holes in the painted cowboy on the stage. But don’t worry—they’re merely from some cooks messing around after everyone had gone home. No messing around with this, either: Lone Star is definitely a place to seek out when you’re heading west. 3153 W. 2100 South, West Valley City, 801-972-0506
Old Towne Tavern
37.9°
Wander down old Main Street in Midvale, and you’ll be transported to another time. An antique store and a baseball-card shop are just a couple of the memory-jogging places to visit on your way to a true old-school neighborhood tavern. While most of the clientele is foot traffic, we highly recommend you visit Old Towne Tavern by any means necessary. This place boasts a casual charm that you can’t find in many bars in the valley. Head out back for some horseshoes or one of the barbecue-smoker special events. 7662 S. Main, Midvale,
801-566-3172
Bill’s Lounge
32.1°
If you’re looking for a true neighborhood bar in Magna, this is your spot. Bill’s Lounge is where you’ll find the locals enjoying the coldest brews to be found in Magna. With a great jukebox, air hockey and pool tables, there’s plenty to do and plenty of suds to be guzzled at this cash-only, beer-only bar. And if you’re in Magna on a Sunday, be sure to stop by for the weekly car show barbecue held in the adjacent lot. 9027 W. 2700 South, Magna, 801-250-9987 No. 8 Coldest Beer
Henry’s Inn
39.0°
South Salt Lake is loaded with vintage bars, but Henry’s Inn is downright antique—at least on the outside. Inside, this beer-only tavern is more like a well-polished Tarantino movie set, with pool tables, wood paneling and the funkiest carpeting this side of Vegas. Henry’s also hosts regular karaoke nights and serves up some surprisingly good bar food. Bring cash; they don’t like plastic here. 2645 S. State, Salt Lake City, 801-637-0675
Henry's Inn
David’s
33.7°
David’s has the coziness of a fisherman’s hideaway in the Florida Keys, where gravelly voiced men play cards and tell tall tales. The 12-foot, 6-inch encased marlin behind the bar certainly adds to that ambiance. It took bar owner David Van Wagenen an hour and a half to reel in the 450-pound behemoth, which won him first place at the 1983 International Billfish Tournament in Kona, Hawaii. He’s collected a variety of other knickknacks in that 40-year span that give this eatery distinctive character. 2324 S. Redwood Road, West Valley City, 801-972-9688
Dick N’ Dixies
44.7°
With an open, sunny feel, this bar offers a comfortable spot to relax—certainly one of our town’s best neighborhood hangs. Bartenders are no-nonsense yet friendly and happy to mix you one of their creative cocktails, like the Bearded F*$#ing Mohawk. As the official viewing bar of Real Salt Lake, Dick N’ Dixies is the perfect place to watch a game. You might even spot one of the players chilling out between practices. 479 E. 300 South, Salt Lake City, 801-521-3556
The Hitching Post
42.0°
The Hitching Post pays tribute to the good old days. Pool tables abound, while the ceiling is made up of bygone advertising planks of Utah County businesses from yesteryear. A full menu is offered till 6 p.m. After that, fill up on assorted fried foods. The super-casual feel is perfect for friends to meet, eat and drink after work. 30 N. Geneva Road, Orem, 801-492-7760
Junior’s Tavern
39.0°
Yearning for some soulful inspiration? Escape the bustle of downtown and embrace your inner hepcat at Junior’s Tavern, where a bygone era of easy listening and easier conversation endures. The bar-top wood is printed with sheet music and a wall case houses an impressive collection of old beer cans, but those are the only frills you’ll find in this relic of jazz’s heyday. Free Wi-Fi is available, and customers are encouraged to swing by with some takeout from the many nearby eateries. Vibes can also be enjoyed on the patio, where it’s no drag if you smoke. 30 E. Broadway, Salt Lake City, 801-322-0318, JuniorsTavern.com
Kokomo Club
38.0°
With 50-plus years in Ogden, Kokomo has amassed a stalwart yet diverse group of regulars—one night you’ll find reticent Ogdenites bellied up to the bar, the next you might see a group of women dancing under the giant stuffed elk head to the sounds of “Single Ladies” on the jukebox. It’s a cash-only operation, but a glass of beer is just $1.75—you can’t get much more old school than that. 216 25th St., Ogden,
801-621-9991
Lazy Dog Saloon
38.3°
Lazy Dog is comfy like a well-worn shoe, but the good beer-drinking people of Riverton (and their dogs) know it’s the place to go to lap up some suds. Dave, the Lazy Dog’s bartender of eight years, lets it slip that the club’s days are numbered due to a road-widening project that will eventually claim the building. But that doesn’t deter the friendly locals from gathering for a game of pool, mug o’ beer, town gossip and even a quiet smoke out on the back porch. Honest: Dogs really are welcome. 12755 S. Redwood Road, Riverton, 801-302-5584
The Leprechaun Inn
32.4°
This Murray neighborhood watering hole is where cold beer, signature drinks, pub grub and local bands converge to make Irish eyes smile. Located at Ivy Place Shopping Village with plenty of convenient parking, the food offerings here include huge portions, low prices and a daily special. Try the world’s freshest margarita—The Skinny Girl—or a specialty cocktail like the Grape Ape, Bee Sting or Fireball. With 15 HD TVs, three pool tables and a year-round, spacious heated/covered patio, your luck and your day can’t help but improve at “the Lep.” 4700 S. 900 East, Murray, 801-268-3294, TheLeprechaunInn.com No. 10 Coldest Beer tie
Manny’s
36.5°
Probably no reason to call it “Manny’s Too” anymore, since the original 2100 South Manny’s is now a parking lot. Not that this Manny’s would ever pass for “new”; this joint (and most of the regulars) has a definite old-school, lived-in vibe that stretches longer than the bar itself—and it’s a long damned bar. They can get wild next door at Willie’s—Manny’s is a place to chill. 1704 S. Main, Salt Lake City,
801-467-6289
Redwood Lounge
42.5°
This near-west-side standard bearer is the epitome of a neighborhood lounge that goes out of its way to make its patrons part of the bar’s extended family. Since ‘66, the bar has been a family-run establishment with deep roots in the neighborhood. Every year, the bar hosts a Pete & Lois Memorial golf tournament in honor of the bar’s original owners, and today’s owners are just as special for a particular reason: Ute fans who celebrate their team with tailgating shots of Grand Marnier. Take that, east siders! 502 S. Redwood Road, Salt Lake City, 801-972-9822
Sugar House Pub
40.3°
Sugar House was a neighborhood in need of a proper pub, one that matched the area’s personality, and this is it. This spotless joint is hip without being hipster and attracts a college crowd, as well as educated professionals. Several local brews—Squatters, Wasatch, Uinta—are available, as well as a selection of imported bottled beers—they’re great for chasing a polish dog with sauerkraut. The back room features several pool tables and the ever-popular Ms. Pac-Man/Galaga combo. 1992 S. 1100 East, 801-413-2857 Facebook.com/SugarHousePub
Twilite Lounge
37.1°
The cool-and-casual Twilite Lounge has been a barroom retreat for Salt Lakers since 1947—a place for the community to gather for cold drinks and warm conversation. With its red leather seats, Twilite’s character and old-timey charm attract patrons of all ages. Operated for decades by the Greek Cairo family, Twilite took on the family’s persona of quick wit, surly banter and good old-fashioned hospitality. A welcoming place to imbibe in any season, year after year, the Twilite quietly rolls up the memories. 347 E. 200 South, Salt Lake City, 801-532-9400, TwiliteLounge.com
Willie’s Lounge
37.2°
Founded in 1948, Willie’s claims to be among the longest continuously operated bars in Salt Lake City. Now, they cater to snow bros, the hip, the humble and the Derby Girl crowd. Willie’s has 15 specialized drinks, all named after roller derby’s high rollers. There’s also a “mind-eraser” menu of drinks sure to live up to their names. Willie’s has your appetite covered: A delivery service brings in food from nearby restaurants. 1716 S. Main, 866-612-2920, WilliesLounge.net
X-Wife’s Place
42.8°
Located near Trolley Square, X-Wife’s is the place to take the edge off your day. The lounge vibe is mellow and the bar staff is hilarious—much the same as they were back in the ‘60s and ‘70s when the bar was packed with U of U students and their professors. It was called My Wife’s Place back then, but that’s another story. In any generation, it’s the perfect place to grab a beer, have an intelligible conversation and shoot some pool. 465 S. 700 East, Salt Lake City, 801-532-1954
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