Living the High Life
Not everyone is in the mood for a martini when they hit a martini bar. Thankfully, living in the West means the swanky joints in town know to expect some low-key customers looking for a simple beer.
37.2 Kristauf’s Martini Bar (Holladay)
Kristauf’s Holladay has the same impressive cocktail list as its downtown twin, but this location also boasts beer on tap, including a nice selection of local microbrew favorites. Even better? Trio’s Holladay location is right next door, meaning you can order meals until 10:30 p.m. on weekends while enjoying your libations. A slick, industrial interior and two large patios give the impression this is the younger, but no less sophisticated, sibling. 6405 S. 3000 East, Holladay, 801-943-1696, MartiniBarSLC.com
39.5 The Vault
Tucked away inside Hotel Monaco, this is not the spot to hit on a rowdy bar crawl. If, on the other hand, what you seek is a quiet place for intimate conversation, a nice glass of wine or freshly poured local beer, The Vault will not disappoint. Frequented by hotel guests and locals looking to escape the bustle of downtown, The Vault is an elegant little getaway. The bar also serves snacks and meals from Monaco’s menu, which features local, seasonal and sustainable cuisine. 202 S. Main, Salt Lake City, 801-363-5454, Bambara-SLC.com
43.1 Sky Bar
Sky Bar’s impressive 360-degree view of the valley allows visitors and locals to gaze on the twinkling metropolis while lounging in art-deco-inspired booths. If the vista gets boring, sidle up to the dance floor’s ringside seats to watch weekly karaoke, go-go dancers on the weekends or Thursday’s free salsa dance lessons. There are unluckier places to find oneself than on the Red Lion’s 13th floor. 600 S. 200 West, Salt Lake City, 801-530-1313, SkyBarSLC.com
43.6 Habits Dinner & Dance Club
This retro bar in Millcreek is incredibly spacious and surprisingly classy. A big dance floor and bigger menu proves the owners take both dinner and dancing seriously. The menu ranges from sushi and Kobe steak to more typical bar fare. Top 40 DJs, weekly karaoke and the occasional fashion show distinguish this bar’s lineup. Drop by during the day to catch older regulars, a hockey game and one of the nicest bartenders you’ll ever meet. 832 E. 3900 South, Salt Lake City, 801-268-2228, ClubHabits.com