BEST of UTAH 2024 | The BEST restaurants, bars, entertainment, nightlife, dishes, drinks, media, and politics in Utah. | Best of Utah | Salt Lake City
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    click image COVER ILLUSTRATION BY CLINT BURLAP
    • Cover illustration by Clint Burlap
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    Assorted treasures at Capital City Antique Mall - COURTESY PHOTO
    • Courtesy photo
    • Assorted treasures at Capital City Antique Mall

    Best Antique Store
    Capital City Antique Mall
    Filled with terrific treasures, interesting oddities and amazing antiquities, it's no wonder Capital City Antique Mall was named Utah's best once again. This mall has more than 65 vendor booths, all showcasing troves full of finds. You'll never run out of things to spy in here. This mall covers all your collecting needs and more. Plus, they're open on Sundays.
    capitalcityantiquemall.com
    2. The Green Ant
    3. Vintage Drift SLC

    Best Alterations, Apparel
    Sue's Alteration
    With its windows facing Sugar House Park, blonde wood, mirrored walls, well-tended plants and jazz music, Sue's Alteration feels more like a health studio than a workspace. The pampering continues with a staff that's helpful and friendly. Walk-ins are welcome but an appointment is recommended for more detailed jobs. You will exit Sue's with a desire to go through your closet in search of items that need tailoring. 
    suesalteration.com
    2. Tailor Cooperative
    3. Leone's Custom-Made, Tailor & Dry Cleaning

    Best Animal Hospital
    VCA Cottonwood Animal Hospital
    When your fur baby is a true member of the family, you don't want to leave veterinary care to chance. VCA Cottonwood Animal Hospital provides both regular appointments and emergency after-hours services to account for any health contingency and fills pet prescriptions. And if you're a first-time client, your initial exam is free of charge. They know how much your pet means to you.
    vcahospitals.com/cottonwood
    2. MedVet Salt Lake City
    3. University Veterinary Hospital & Diagnostic Center

    Best Animal Shelter/Rescue
    Best Friends Animal Society
    Inaugurated under humble circumstances in 1984, Best Friends continues its work in providing shelter for homeless animals unabated. From their flagship sanctuary in Kanab, this nonprofit spearheads collaborative efforts with shelters from around the country, with the hope that "no-kill" may indeed become a widespread reality. "Who rescued whom?" queries a common bumper sticker. Thanks to the facilitation of Best Friends, the homeless animals of today may yet become our rescuers tomorrow.
    bestfriends.org
    2. Humane Society of Utah
    3. Ruff Haven Crisis Sheltering

    Best Asian Market
    Chinatown Supermarket
    As the largest Asian market in Utah, the Chinatown Supermarket is a must if you're looking for authentic Asian ingredients and cuisine. This market has it all, from live seafood to roasted duck to a variety of fruits and vegetables. Located in the heart of South Salt Lake's Chinatown, this supermarket is more than just a stop on your errands list; it's a whole experience.
    chinatown-supermarket.com
    2. H Mart
    3. Ocean Mart 

    Best Attorney
    Jacob Jensen, Jacob Jensen & Associates
    While the lion's share of the client work done by Jacob Jensen & Associates involves traffic incidents, it's possible that if you were bitten by an actual lion, they'd be your go-to as well, as suits involving animal bites are part of their wide-ranging portfolio of specialties. But they also handle an assortment of other tough personal injury cases, from slip-and-falls to bicycle collisions to injuries sustained on the ski slopes.
    jacobjensenlaw.com 
    2. Jonathan Jemming, Jemming Law, LLC
    3. Orlando Luna, Oluna Law PLLC

    Best ATV/OTR Store
    Young Powersports XL
    With new and pre-owned inventory, a state-of-the-art parts 'n' service department, plus a wide range of brands, price points and after-market accessories, Young Powersports is your one-stop shop for snowmobiles, on- and off-road vehicles, even motorcycles (built for both speed or 'round-the-town rides). Find them online, or just look for that looming Centerville water tower in front of their bustling complex. 
    youngpowersportsxl.com
    2. Steadman's Recreation Inc
    3. Weller Recreation

    Best Auto Dealership
    Mark Miller Subaru
    It's well-known that when you move to Utah, you surrender any non-Subaru vehicle you own at the state border, immediately envisioning yourself behind the wheel of a sensible Outback. Mark Miller Subaru is a perfect place to make your transition to the Subaruhive State, with a large selection of new and pre-owned vehicles and a parts 'n' service department that'll keep your sled running for the obligatory decade or 200k miles. Whichever comes first.
    markmillersubaru.com
    2. Nate Wade Subaru
    3. Young Subaru

    Best Barber Shop
    Jed's Barber Shop
    Jed's Barber Shop is all about inclusiveness and has been rocking it as one of the first barber shops in SLC to join Strands for Trans. They're trendsetters for all ages, and kept their staff strong through the pandemic. Here, hair and talent know no gender—just good feelings all around! People flock to Jed's for the friendly atmosphere and the unbeatable free games and soda, which you won't find anywhere else. 
    jedsbarbershop.com
    2. The Salt Lake Barber Company
    3. Savant Barbershop

    Saturday Cycles: For all your biking needs - COURTESY PHOTO
    • Courtesy photo
    • Saturday Cycles: For all your biking needs

    Best Bicycle Repair Shop
    Saturday Cycles
    Whether you're tuning up your ride for the season or building out the components on a Franken-bike, Saturday Cycles has what you need and, better yet, at the prices you want to pay. Trust this handy crew to get your gear in working order and you'll be back to cranking the gears in no time.
    saturdaycycles.com
    2. Salt Lake City Bicycle Collective
    3. Wasatch Touring

    Best Bicycle Store
    Saturday Cycles
    Salt Lakers love Saturday Cycles, with its friendly, knowledgeable staff and a broad range of services and gear at affordable prices. But it wasn't always the easiest place to get to on a bike, perched between a highway and a freeway ramp. Now, in its new biking- and transit-friendly location in the Depot District (and on the future Green Loop!), there are more reasons than ever to love this charming local bike shop. saturdaycycles.com
    2. Contender Bicycles
    3. Guthrie Bicycle Co.

    Best Bookstore
    The King's English
    Established in 1977, this bookstore has become a beloved staple in Salt Lake City. Its intimate and welcoming atmosphere, combined with a team of friendly and knowledgeable book-lovers, makes shopping in The King's English a one-of-a-kind experience. This locally-owned store not only sells a carefully curated selection of books, but also connects with the community by hosting events, local authors and book groups.
    kingsenglish.com
    2. Under the Umbrella Bookstore
    3. Lovebound Library

    Best Camping Gear
    REI
    Go into REI and just try to leave without spending at least $50. You won't! Slick little foldable camping tables, sleeping bags and blankets galore—what's not to like? They've got a generous return policy, epic deals on used equipment and a ton of rentals available to members. You can trust that what you buy at REI will last.
    rei.com/stores/salt-lake-city
    2. Recreation Outlet
    3. Smith & Edwards

    Best Cannabis Budtender
    Mia Hicken, Dragonfly Wellness
    Mia's sweet soul, depth of knowledge and patience with cannabis newbies has been a massive help to Salt Lakers navigating the over-complicated world of medical marijuana. Patients applauded her great smile and overall attitude. Not only is she a cool as heck budtender, but she's also the lead singer of local garage band Drusky! IG: @miahickenmusic
    2. Dennis Magana, WholesomeCo Cannabis
    3. Michael Johnson, Bloc Pharmacy South Jordan

    Best Cannabis Concentrates
    WholesomeCo Cannabis
    WholesomeCo Cannabis has employees who will spend time answering all your questions. They have great knowledge of the products and can give helpful advice depending on whatever stage of the cannabis journey you find yourself. They have a wide selection of concentrates with flavors ranging from Trop Cookies x Strawberry Guava to White Truffle to Menthol, and many more!
    wholesome.co
    2. Dragonfly Wellness
    3. Pure Plan Medical

    Best Cannabis Edibles
    Dragonfly Wellness
    Dragonfly's selection of gummies and tablets is truly astounding. The piña colada and strawberry-flavored tablets are standouts for their sweet, weed-less flavor. The DragonBites sleep gummies are heavenly, with the perfect balance of CBD, CBN and THC to knock you out at bedtime. Looking for more of a pick-me-up? The DragonBites active gummies are great for helping you feel alert and focused. You won't find a better variety of options in Utah.
    dragonflywellness.com
    2. Cannabist Dispensary
    3. Bloc Pharmacy (South Jordan)

    Best Cannabis Edibles (CBD)
    Kush Kube
    The high CBD content can help reduce anxiety without the paranoia that comes with THC, reviewers have noted, making Kush Kube a good option for people looking for help sleeping. They pack a punch and are widely available at gas stations and smoke shops around the Salt Lake Valley.
    kingbdistribution.com

    2. Koodegras
    3. Hemplucid

    Best Cannabis Flower
    Beehive Farmacy
    One reviewer said that everything they've sampled from Beehive has been "riptastic". What else can one really say? The variety of strains available is delightful, with SLC Scoops, Red Velvet and Chem Cake standing out as favorites among customers. Beehive always seems to have something good on hand, even when other pharmacies in the valley are sold out.
    beehivefarmacy.com
    2. Bloc Pharmacy (South Jordan)
    3. Curaleaf UT (Lehi)

    Best Cannabis: Medical Card Provider 
    KindlyMD, Utah Medical Card & Medication Management Services
    With warm and knowledgeable providers, easy scheduling and digestible learning materials, it's easy to see why KindlyMD stands above the rest around these parts. They help take the stress out of qualifying for your medical card and will have you in and out in less than an hour.
    kindlymd.com
    2. Empathetix
    3. Mountain West Medical Clinic

    Best Cannabis Pharmacy
    WholesomeCo Cannabis
    WholesomeCo Cannabis is known for being clean, simple, informative and easy to navigate. They have a wide selection of products at fair prices, and even offer free delivery for purchases over $50. The friendly staff are welcoming and ready to share their wealth of knowledge about the products. Visit the brick-and-mortar location in Bountiful, or check out the online store, with guaranteed discreet delivery.
    wholesome.co
    2. Dragonfly Wellness
    3. The Flower Shop (Ogden)

    Best Cannabis Topical
    Dragonfly Wellness
    The Dragonbalm is the star of the show here, offering relief from headaches and colds, arthritic pains, and muscle strains. The 2:1 THC to CBD ratio offers a nice balance between the heady and bodily effects. It's like they combined Vick's Vapor Rub and Icy Hot!
    dragonflywellness.com/products/topicals
    2. WholesomeCo Cannabis
    3. The Flower Shop (Ogden)

    Best Cannabis Topical (CBD) 
    Muscle MX
    There's a nice variety of uses at Muscle MX with a special focus on athletic performance and recovery. The Activate CBD Balm loosens stiff muscles, while Recovery lessens joint pain and reduces inflammation. The balm comes in a deodorant-like stick, which makes it easy to pack for long trips or tournament days.
    musclemx.com
    2. Koodegras No. 9
    3. Farmer & Chemist: Problem Salved

    Best CBD Products
    HempLucid
    The wide range of options is what makes HempLucid shine. Reviews of their tinctures, sleep gummies and lotions are nothing but glowing; prices are affordable and online orders are simple. Whether you're looking for something to soothe an aging pet or help you drift off to sleep without using THC, HempLucid has you covered. hemplucid.com
    2. Acrely Farms CBD
    3. Beehive Buds

    Assorted selections at Under the Umbrella Bookstore - COURTESY PHOTO
    • Courtesy photo
    • Assorted selections at Under the Umbrella Bookstore

    Best Company That Gives Back 
    Under the Umbrella Bookstore
    Under the Umbrella is a queer bookstore built on celebrating queer authors and books. Not only is this bookstore dedicated to creating a safe and accessible space for LBGTQIA+ people, but they're constantly finding ways to give back to local organizations and charities. From donating proceeds to hosting events to encouraging the community to curate their selections, this business knows how to give back in as many ways as they can.
    undertheumbrellabookstore.com
    3. The Other Side Thrift Boutique 
    3. Mark Miller Subaru

    Best CBD Retailer
    Koodegras
    Founded in 2015, Koodegras was the first CBD specialty store in Utah. They sell small-batch, artisanal 100% THC-free CBD, and also offer "full spectrum" products. Among their 200 products are oils, tinctures, lotions, edibles, gel caps, tablets, topicals, bath bombs, patches, vaporizer cartridges and even products for dogs. Reviews cite the wide variety of products, excellent quality, and friendly, helpful staff well-versed on CBD's available products and health benefits.
    koodegras.com
    2. Acrely Farms CBD
    3. Farmer & Chemist

    Best Clothing Boutique
    IconoCLAD
    IconoCLAD is a favorite because they emphasize community. Their staff are helpful and there is always a wide variety of clothing, whether you are looking for fun festival outfits, last-minute rave accessories or just everyday attire. Their second-hand clothing is high quality, which makes for a fun thrifting experience.
    IG: @IconoCLAD
    2. Pib's Exchange
    3. Retro Betty

    Best Comic Book Store
    Black Cat Comics
    Sugar House has gone through a ton of changes over the past two decades, but Black Cat is one of the few shops that has become a local staple. Greg Gage has done an amazing job of providing a bounty of options, both old and new, as well as collectibles you can't find elsewhere. Not even a car coming through the front door a few years ago shook them from their spot!
    blackcat-comics.com
    2. The Nerd Store
    3. Dr. Volt's Comic Connection

    Best Consignment Store
    IconoCLAD
    If you haven't gone through your closet lately, then consider this to be your own personal sign! IconoCLAD is open to buying your gently worn clothing, shoes, and accessories at a good price. They offer in-store credit, which can make shopping a more eco-friendly experience without breaking the bank. IG: @IconoCLAD
    2. Pib's Exchange
    3. The Other Side Thrift Boutique

    Best Culinary School
    Salt Lake Culinary Education 
    This facility isn't dedicated to a single track of education. Instead, it offers a variety of programming for chefs of all ages. You can be well on your way to calling yourself "chef" before long, if that's your choice, or you can simply become a better weekend baker. With kitchen culture having a moment like never before, Salt Lake Culinary Education can take anyone to the next level.
    sliceutah.com
    2. Park City Culinary Institute
    3. Salt Lake Community College Culinary Miller Campus

    Festive adornments from Millcreek Gardens - AUSTEN DIAMOND
    • Austen Diamond
    • Festive adornments from Millcreek Gardens

    Best Flower Nursery
    Millcreek Gardens
    When you're looking for beautiful adornment to your landscaping, you want to make choices that are as smart as they are aesthetically pleasing. Millcreek Gardens has spent decades providing Utahns with fantastic flora, as well as helpful guidelines for where, when and how to plant your new additions. And they're terrific at guiding those who are interested in showcasing native plants.
    millcreekgardens.com
    2. Glover Nursery
    3. J&J Nursery and Garden Center

    Best Doggie Biscuit Take Out
    Bjorn's Brew
    What's a better pick-me-up than a fresh coffee and snack from a beloved, locally-owned coffee shop? Knowing you can share the wealth with your dog, too! Bjorn's Brew is built to serve you and your pets. Not only are their dog bones a hit for your canine companions, but Bjorn's celebrates our local pet population by featuring "Pets of the Week" and donating to animal charities.
    bjornsbrew.com 
    2. Rebel Paw
    3. Ma & Paws Bakery 

    Best European Food Imports Market
    Caputo's Market & Deli
    This Italian food market has a fantastic meat and cheese department, shelves of sauces and condiments, a wine section and a variety of other items like beverages and chocolates. The deli area has a menu of entrees with a great selection of salads and appetizers. Stop in, grab a sandwich and pick out some deli for dinner.
    caputos.com
    2. Pirate O's
    3. Siegfried's Delicatessen

    Best Family-Owned Business
    The People's Coffee 
    Despite having to move buildings during the pandemic, owner Omar Jamhour has brought the shop to life while adding to the heart of downtown. With giant windows, it's a great place to study solo or to chat with friends. It's also a mix of old and new—a historical building with charm as well as modern touches like the iconic LED sign. Stop in for caffeine or a variety of foods. IG: @thepeoplescoffeeutah
    2. Black Cat Comics
    3. Sauced Up Salsa LLC

    Best Fishing Gear Store
    Western Rivers Flyfisher
    If you'd like to look someone in the eye who knows their stuff about fishing before you buy your next lure, pole or tackle, go no further than Western Rivers. The staff is friendly and extremely knowledgeable, and the selection of products makes this the perfect one-stop shop before your next fishing trip.
    westernriversflyfishing.com
    2. Fish Tech Outfitters
    3. Sportsman's Warehouse

    Best Florist
    Cactus & Tropicals
    There are a few things you want from a florist: high quality, diverse stock and a helpful staff to point you in the right direction. Cactus & Tropicals has provided all of the above and more during nearly 50 years serving the Utah community, with cut flowers, wreaths, blooming arrangements and more for every possible occasion.
    cactusandtropicals.com
    2. Native Flower Company
    3. Hillside Floral

    Among the many hobby wares sold at Game Night Games - AUSTEN DIAMOND
    • Austen Diamond
    • Among the many hobby wares sold at Game Night Games

    Best Hobby Shop Store
    Game Night Games
    Decrease that screen time at Game Night Games and get back to the old-fashioned ways of mingling with like-minded table top fans, card game aficionados and board game addicts. The staff is friendly and will have no problem introducing you to something new. Check the event calendar and engage with the vibrant community of meet-ups every single night of the week. The Game Room is boss.
    gamenightgames.com
    2. The Nerd Store
    3. The Legendarium

    Best Gaming Store
    Game Night Games
    With Utah being one of the biggest states for board-gaming, it should come as no surprise that Game Night Games has found its niche in the community as a one-stop-shop for whatever game you may be looking to play. They have managed to keep their finger on the gaming pulse for everything ranging from family nights all the way to die-hard TTRPG players. 
    gamenightgames.com
    2. Hastur Games & Hobbies
    3. Oasis Games

    Best Grocery Store Bakery
    Harmons Grocery 
    Harmon's pastry chefs craft an ever-changing selection of delicious desserts to satisfy any sweet craving. They make everything fresh, from elegant cakes to fruit tarts, cannoli, classic crème brulee, maple bars and kouign-amann. It's always cookie season, ranging from gingersnaps to snickerdoodles. Harmon's meets every bakery need with an endless procession of crusty artisan loaves of bread to accompany soup, create a sandwich or eat with bread and jam.
    harmonsgrocery.com
    2. Dick's Market (Bountiful)
    3. Soelberg's Market

    Best Hair Salon
    Lucero Hair And Wellness
    What sets Lucero apart is their commitment to inclusivity and their approach to giving each client an individual, customized hair experience. Their goal is to allow each person to see themselves authentically and perfectly as they are when they are done—that is what "wellness" means. Lucero does not take their careers or professionals lightly, only bringing on folks who have the truest sense of their inclusive mission. IG: @lucerohair_andwellness 
    2. Landis Lifestyle Salon
    3. Lunatic Fringe 

    Best Healing Spa
    The Kura Door
    If you're dreaming of a whimsical afternoon of pampering, look no further than Kura Door! Their Ofuro Bath is a must-try experience (words will not do this experience justice), and the facials are nothing short of magical transformations. Stepping through the door of the location nestled in The Avenues feels like entering a fantastical realm of relaxation and rejuvenation, all genders welcome.
    thekuradoor.com 
    2. Sego Lily Spa
    3. CoCo Art & Spa

    Best Jewelry Store
    9th & 9th Jewelers 
    In business since 1989, this family-run operation works in the realm of the expected, selling engagement and wedding rings and the like through an ethical, sustainable model. Specializing in custom-made pieces, the shop's also your only stop in the event that a piece of jewelry has become damaged, with the craftsfolk of this storefront often seen hard at work through the shop's big front windows.
    9thand9thjewelers.com
    2. Tresor Jewelers
    3. Mineral and Matter

    Various flavors offered by Salsa Queen - CLINT BURLAP
    • Clint Burlap
    • Various flavors offered by Salsa Queen

    Best Locally Made Salsa
    Salsa Queen
    Salsa Queen is a household name. What started as a delicious local salsa offering has grown into a dip empire, with varieties spanning pico to tomatillo to creamy chipotle to fancy freeze dried packs. Fit for every occasion and sensibility, Salsa Queen unabashedly stuffs her salsas with fresh flavors impossible to find in store-bought varieties. And, without fillers and preservatives, each mouthful will have you chanting "all hail the queen!"
    salsaqueen.com
    2. Salsa Del Diablo
    3. Sauced Up Salsa LLC

    Salt Lake City Public Library’s Urban Room - CLINT BURLAP
    • Clint burlap
    • Salt Lake City Public Library’s Urban Room

    Best Library Branch
    Salt Lake City Public Library (Main)
    For years, if not decades, the modern library has expanded in function from the simple exchange of books between local readers to becoming a valuable social space—one of the last places in contemporary society in which all citizens move about in a single, civic venue. Modernized into the quarter-million square-foot, five-story structure that it occupies today, SLC's main library is a handsome building serving a noble purpose. slcpl.org
    2. Marmalade Branch
    3. Sprague Branch

    Best Local Ad Agency
    Love Communications
    Love Communications is a business that brands organizations, re-brands organizations and rejuvenates the brands of organizations. They do well at creating an emotional connection by making the message of your business stick with great brand development and creative production, media planning and buying, management and implementation, as well as PR and community outreach to help customers take notice.
    lovecomm.net
    2. FUEL Marketing
    3. Sky Digital Media

    Best Local Bank for Small Businesses
    Mountain America Credit Union 
    When you walk into the office of any MACU, the thing that strikes you is the calm of the place, the staff moving through their list of customer needs with a steady ease. Need a $10,000 loan to help you through the slow season? Or are you simply struggling to remember PIN numbers? The good folks at MACU will help you negotiate the big and small vexations of your business banking life.
    macu.com
    2. America First Credit Union
    3. UFirst Credit Union

    Best Local Company to Work For
    UFirst Credit Union 
    UFirst Credit Union is known for its kind management and co-workers, with room to grow and excellent benefits. People who work there praise that the goals set by the Credit Union are achievable and allow for growth in the company and that there are always opportunities to try something new. The HR department is also made up of helpful staff who are easy to talk to.
    ufirstcu.com
    2. Young Automotive Group
    3. HK Brewing Collective Taproom & Bar

    Best Local Gear Brand
    Cotopaxi
    Utah is known for its outdoors, and the best place to get high quality gear while also supporting a local business is Cotopaxi. They pride themselves at providing well-thought-out options for travelers who want both organization and comfort. Their durable and lightweight bags are especially praised and they have great customer service.
    cotopaxi.com
    2. Skullcandy
    3. Black Diamond Equipment

    Best Local Grocer
    The Store Fine Foods
    Big things come in small packages—and The Store proves this is true. While carrying national brands, The Store is truly big if you are searching for Utah-sourced products. Offering a plethora of delicious and unique local items, it also has an in-house bakery, butcher and self-serve food buffets. Add to this the curated gift packages, gourmet pre-prepared meals, wood-fired pizzas and catering, and you wonder how such a small package can hold so much. 
    thestorefinefoods.com
    2. Liberty Heights Fresh
    3. Hello! Bulk Markets    

    Best Looking Utah Liquor Bottle 
    Cerulea Gin, Holystone Distilling
    This elegant bottle not only calls your eye with its beauty, but also serves as a tribute to survivors of breast cancer. A portion of Cerulea sales is donated to support breast cancer research. And get this, the lavender colored gin changes color when mixed with ingredients of other pH levels. Simply remarkable.
    holystonedistilling.com
    2. Vintage Distillery, Vintage Spirits Distillery
    3. Salt City Vodka

    Best Market: Middle Eastern
    Black Cherry Mediterranean Market 
    With an increasingly-cosmopolitan residential base, Salt Lake City doesn't lack for great international markets, be they global or hyper-regional. Since 2011, Black Cherry's carved out a great niche, carrying products of all sorts in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, kosher and specialty varieties. For a fun and educational look at the products, check out the shop's Facebook page, which gives a glimpse at the myriad options available, from hookahs to seasonings to fresh produce.
    blackcherrymarket.com
    2. Specialty Market
    3. Shahrazad Market and Restaurant

    Best Pet CBD
    Roxy's CBD & Wellness
    Along any major thoroughfare, stores selling hemp-related products have gained a mainstream acceptance in recent years, with products now apart from the exclusively-human. Pet CBD products are a staple at Roxy's, with the brands HempLucid and Pet Releaf among their offerings. As with products geared to the two-legged set, these CBD products offer everything from stress relief to the minimization of joint pain, with flavors that'll speak to the animals in your household.
    roxyscbdandwellness.com
    2. HempLucid
    3. Koodegras

    Brian McOmie - COURTESY PHOTO
    • Courtesy photo
    • Brian McOmie

    Best Private Bar Service
    Your Favorite Bartender
    For those new to Utah or uninitiated in the complications of alcohol services for public or private events, Your Favorite Bartender is the go-to for education, understanding and damn good drinks. Fully equipped with their own craft syrups, the local owners/operators/bartenders create traditional and nontraditional drinks for the pickiest or most experimental palettes.
    yourfavoritebartender.org
    2. Premier Event Services
    3. Lux Catering

    Recreation Outlet has all the outdoor goods you need - STEVEN VARGO
    • Steven Vargo
    • Recreation Outlet has all the outdoor goods you need

    Best Recreation Sports Store
    Recreation Outlet
    You know that thing you forgot (or lost) on your last climb, backpacking trip, trail run or other adventure? There's a good shot you can find it here for a fair price. They've got a fantastic selection of outdoor goods and run a ton of sales to help you get back outside without breaking the bank. The location is very convenient as well.
    recreationoutlet.com
    2. Backcountry Retail Store
    3. Level Nine Sports

    Best Pet Groomer
    Arnie's Dog Spa
    Dog moms and dads rave about the gentle and thoughtful treatment that Isabel, McKenna and the other groomers provide. The spa has earned a reputation for working with larger breeds like German Shepherds and huskies. Looking at the before and after pictures of their clientele is definitely worth at least 15 minutes of your time.
    arniesdogspa.com
    2. A Cut Above Pet Salon
    3. Kibbles & Cuts

    Best Pet Supply Store
    The Dog's Meow
    If all you want is a 50-pound bag of mass-produced kibble, you've got grocery stores and chain pet emporia. But if you want options for the healthiest specialty pet food, you need a place like The Dog's Meow, with its impressive stock of wholesome options for dogs and cats. And if you're visiting select locations, you can also take advantage of dog-washing stations to keep your pooch their fresh-and-friskiest.
    dogsmeow.com
    2. Healthy Pets (Salt Lake City)
    3. Ma & Paws Bakery

    Best Piercer
    Dustin Robbins, ENSO Piercing + Adornment
    It takes a good piercer to relax a newbie offering up their precious flesh for its first puncture, and a great one to get the person facing the needle to openly laugh. Dustin is a piercer whose proficiency, professionalism and artistry is evenly met with his disarming communication. Appointments by text are greatly appreciated by those of us who are phone call averse. Go get yourself a little more hole-y today. 
    ensopiercing.com
    2. Courtney Marriott, Abyss Body Piercing
    3. Kristina Butterfield, The Piercing Place

    Best Piercing Studio
    KOI Piercing Studio
    Getting a piercing can bring on some anxiety, which is why going somewhere that feels clean and safe is always important. KOI Piercing Studio has staff who will provide you with as much information as possible about your piercing and help you feel comfortable during the process. They also have a wide selection of high-quality jewelry in the store, so you can shop while you are there.
    koipiercingslc.com
    2. Abyss Body Piercing
    3. ENSO Piercing + Adornment

    Best Private Event Venue
    Red Butte Garden 
    Red Butte Garden spans 100 acres at the University of Utah and is the largest botanical garden in the Intermountain West. The stunning Orangerie and Fragrance Garden, filled with aromatic plants, provide a picturesque setting for weddings, celebrations, engagements and work retreats, featuring breathtaking views and a magical ambiance. It is a beautiful space for every occasion, and their staff facilitate memorable experiences—both of which keep folks coming back long after their event.
    redbuttegarden.org
    2. Cactus & Tropicals
    3. Church & State

    Best Remote Workspace
    Kiln 
    Since COVID's rude introduction into our consciousness, the concept of remote working's only become more pronounced. But at Kiln, you can sip a coffee and not feel the guilt of tying up a public table for the afternoon. With pretty much every amenity, Kiln gives you the best of all worlds: privacy when needed, community and comradeship and all the bells and whistles you could ask for.
    kiln.com
    2. Red Butte Garden Courtyard
    3. Church & State

    Best Residential Complex
    The Royce On 9th Apartments, Murray
    When a decades-old K-Mart up and died, a giant parcel of land in Murray suddenly opened once again for development. Enter visionary apartment community builder ICO, (an arm of Ivory Homes) and The Royce on 9th was born. Combining a premier mid-valley location, easy transit and thoroughfare access and nearby dining and nightlife with high-level living amenities and comfortable apartments, it's no wonder The Royce is already getting raves.
    liveattheroyce.com
    2. Avia
    3. Sterling Pointe Apartments

    Best Runners' Store
    Salt Lake Running Company
    Whether you're an ultra-marathoner or just getting started with jogs around your block, having the proper gear makes all the difference in the world. From the latest in footwear design to performance clothing that keeps you looking and feeling your best, Salt Lake Running Company has everything you need and the helpful, knowledgeable staff to get you laced up and ready to pound the pavement.
    saltlakerunning.com
    2. Runner's Corner
    3. RunGr8 Running Center

    Apparel brands and boards at Milosport - JOHN TAYLOR
    • John Taylor
    • Apparel brands and boards at Milosport

    Best Snowboard Shop
    Milosport
    Celebrating 40 years of serving SLC's snowboard scene, MILO has been our go-to shop before most resorts even allowed the sport. Inside you'll find a curated mix of local apparel brands alongside hard-to-find boards like Gentemstick. And the sales team knows their stuff—you'll likely spot them slashing at Snowbird or Brighton on their days off.
    milosport.com
    2. Salty Peaks Snowboard Shop
    3. Ski 'N See Ft. Union

    Best Shooting Range
    TNT Guns & Range
    Whether you are a first-time shooter or a pro, TNT Guns & Range is safe respite from the fears of open-air ranges or trips to the tops of mountains with empty cans and a few pistols. Offering all types of gun rentals, their professionals assist in setup, instruction and operation. Utilize their clear pricing for a one-off, a membership, or corporate events.
    tntgunrange.com
    2. Lee Kay Public Shooting Range
    3. Bountiful Lions Club Rifle Range

    Best Skate Shop
    Milosport
    Let's make a bet to see if you can go to any Utah skatepark without spotting at least one Milosport logo. From decks to apparel, sunnies and stickers, MILO has been outfitting Utah's skate scene since 1984. MILO's roster is so impressive, it reads like a who's who of the biggest names in pro skateboarding and snowboarding. If Milosport is good enough for these folks, it's damn sure good enough for you too. 
    milosport.com
    2. Raunch Records & Skate
    3. Beehive Skate Shop

    Best Ski Shop
    Sports Den
    If there was ever a doubt that Salt Lake's a destination for the skiing-inclined, check out the arrivals at the airport sometime. If those travelers were ever to mispack something, locals might send them to the Sports Den, where their ski shop's got customers covered. The Sports Den has what you need: boots, poles, gear, all sold by experienced staffers. Plus, they've got athleisure wear that'll look great for bumming around the resort. sportsden.com
    2. Lone Pine Gear Exchange
    3. Wasatch Touring

    Best Smoke/Vape Shop
    Blackhouse Vapor Company 
    Coming up on a decade in business, Blackhouse Vapor has something figured out. With a facility that looks more like a lounge than their competitors' brightly-lit shops, the staff at Blackhouse familiarize customers with the latest in vape and smoke products. Bringing back a regular client base by supplying them with the best products around ought to allow Blackhouse a solid chance to remain in this game for another decade, or more. blackhousevapor.com
    2. Murray Vapes
    3. Robertsons Smoke & Coffee Shop

    Best Specialty Nursery
    Cactus & Tropicals
    With a pleasingly diverse selection of plants and unique gift offerings that can be found throughout the entire year, Cactus & Tropicals is not just a plant paradise but also a stunning venue for special events. The temperature-controlled interiors give off a welcoming hue of humidity and fresh flowers.
    cactusandtropicals.com
    2. Glover Nursery
    3. Orchid Dynasty

    The staff at Studio Elev8 - COURTESY PHOTO
    • Courtesy photo
    • The staff at Studio Elev8

    Best Tattoo Shop 
    Studio Elev8
    This traditional shop is giving way to strategies that make the tattoo experience better for the artist and client alike. It's a nice blend of modern and traditional, starting with a required consultation to make sure that the client is on the same page with the artist. There's a truly distinct feel between the different artists' styles as well, with darker, more horror-inspired work at home alongside brighter, sillier designs. studioelev8.com
    2. Only Forever Tattoo
    3. Salty Kitten Tattoo Co.

    Unique fashions at Pib’s Exchange - CLINT BURLAP
    • Clint Burlap
    • Unique fashions at Pib’s Exchange

    Best Thrift Store
    Pib's Exchange
    Curated collections of eccentric oddities await beyond the walls of this local vintage-lover's haven, filled to the brim with some sort of sweater or smock for even the pickiest of fashionistas. With clothing for every gender, enticing bits and bobs as accessories, and hard-to-find rarities mixed with newly minted band merchandise, Pib's has long been taken up by the community as a treasure trove of stone-cold style.
    pibsexchange.com
    2. IconoCLAD
    3. The Other Side Thrift Boutique

    Best Tattoo Artist
    Mike Johnson, Studio Elev8
    Mike's art stands on its own for its dynamism and boldness. He creates bright, expansive designs and has a great instinct for how to design a piece using the contours of the subject's bodies. He also specializes in dermagraphics and is one of the best in the nation at areola restorations for survivors of breast cancer.
    studioelev8.com/mike-johnson
    2. Ashley Love, Only Forever Tattoo
    3. Danny Madsen, The Garden Electric

    Best Tree and Shrub Nursery
    Glover Nursery
    Looking to turn your yard into a leafy paradise? Glover Nursery has you covered. This family-owned garden store stocks foliage that thrives in Utah's desert climate, and their friendly plant pros will guide you to the best trees and shrubs for your space. Glover even offers landscape consulting if you're looking for a full redesign of your outdoor oasis. 
    glovernursery.com
    2. J&J Nursery and Garden Center
    3. Arbor Day Nursery

    Best Tree Services
    Diamond Tree Experts
    With over 56 years of experience in the tree care service, Diamond has perfected its business model. With four certified arborists on staff and service across the Wasatch Front, Diamond will meet the needs of any job large or small. They offer free estimates, tree removal, trimming, stump grinding, work area clean-up and will recycle waste into a sustainable mulch.
    diamondtreeexperts.com
    2. SuperTrees Utah
    3. Amen Trees

    Best Vegetable Nursery
    Kuwahara Wholesale
    Growing up, every kid dreams of a Narnia-like passageway—a door or wall that opens up to a fantasy-filled world. Kuwahara Wholesale is a small, familiar bungalow-style home converted back and back and back into magically well-maintained greenhouses of flowering plants. Their offerings change seasonally, and they support other local businesses through their farmer's market. They even have positive reviews on Nextdoor, where all good things die a fiery death.
    kuwaharawholesale.com
    2. Glover Nursery
    3. Millcreek Gardens

    Best Veterinary Care
    Hillside Veterinary Hospital 
    There are times in every pet guardian's life in which outside aid is needed—sometimes urgently. Be it a complicated surgery or an annual check-up, Hillside Veterinary Hospital is able to help most small animals, with half-hour diagnoses and consultations offered before varied options are offered. Inside a state-of-the-art facility, Hillside's large roster of veterinarians, nurses and support staff are there to make the experience the best possible, for both pet and owner.
    hillsidevet.com
    2. University Veterinary Hospital Diagnostic Center
    3. VCA Cottonwood Animal Hospital

    Best Vinyl Record Shop
    Randy's Records
    Since 1978, Randy's Records has been a one-stop shop for any Utah vinyl lover. Their wide collection of records and their knowledgeable staff make this record shop Utah's best. Not only do they sell both new and used vinyl records (yes, you can sell your records at Randy's, too!), but they also sell new and used CDs, turntables, amplifiers and speakers. Randy's really has it all.
    randysrecords.com
    2. Graywhale Entertainment
    3. Daybreak Records

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    Open Streets hub at Granary District - COURTESY PHOTO
    • Courtesy photo
    • Open Streets hub at Granary District

    Best City Street Makeover
    Open Streets Granary
    The Open Streets program started on Main Street, swapping congestion for sidewalk dining, street performers and foot traffic. But 2024 saw the party shift to the Granary District, with a beautiful mural reclaiming excess roadway and a temporary roundabout calming traffic. Throughout September, a neglected industrial zone became a vibrant community hub, showing how every neighborhood can benefit from prioritizing people over cars, and how doing so requires little more than a bucket of paint.
    thegranarydistrict.com

    Best Bugs and Bones
    Natür Showroom
    Looking for a unique gift for the person who has everything? Look no further than a Chinese Golden Scorpion, Ibex skull or Prognathodon tooth. Feeling more romantic? Perhaps a Tiger's eye mineral bracelet or a set of meteorite stud earrings instead. From insects to minerals, from land or sea, Natür Showroom in Midvale has everything and anything you're looking for when it comes to the absolutely not mundane.
    naturshowroom.com

    Best Bus Route
    200 South
    It's well established that Salt Lake City's streets are unusually wide. That means a lot of space to work with, but lazy leaders were long content to phone it in on street design, pouring asphalt wall to wall and drawing in as many car lanes as possible. Finally, someone had the good sense to claim a piece of one road for the humble bus—improving transit, safety and walkability while leaving plenty of room for drivers.

    Best Garden Co-op
    Wasatch Community Gardens
    Making land productive is a satisfying endeavor, made even more satisfying when the effort is shared. Wasatch Community Gardens is a popular enough space for that work that there's usually a waiting list, but it's worth that wait. And if you have no previous experience with gardening, never fear! They also offer education courses to help you with the basics you need to get started. wasatchgardens.org

    Best Gluten Free Bakery
    Good Food
    For those of you who do have Celiac, Good Food Gluten Free Bakery wants you to know they have your back. Bakery items don't have to taste like cardboard, and that's why owner Maren K. hires some who eat gluten: "We want to feed our community and fulfill a need." Good Food has expanded from cupcakes and cookies to a weekly fry fest of donuts, and their specialty item, eclairs. IG: @goodfoodglutenfreebakery

    Best Local Printmaker
    Saltgrass Printmakers
    This non-profit open access print shop offers classes and workshops that appeal to a wide range of individuals. Their events are geared so that beginners and the more skilled among us can work alongside each other. They work with local schools and businesses as well as with artists from both near and far. saltgrassprintmakers.org

    Best Providers of Shade — The Good Kind
    TreeUtah
    Since its founding in 1989, TreeUtah has been dogged in its efforts with tree-planting and stewardship education around the state. Among its varied verdant initiatives is its commendable work in addressing urban heat zones and air pollution along Salt Lake City's west side. With as many historically underserved urban areas as we have, and with temperature extremes likely to increase due to climate change, the work that TreeUtah is doing is indeed evergreen. treeutah.org

    Extra Special Amenable Award
    The Staff at the Whitmore Branch
    For our 40th Anniversary Rewind project, we at City Weekly were obliged to make extensive use of scanners. Without infinite resources at our disposal and with boxes to work through, we thought it best to turn to our local libraries. In the end we were glad we did, for the staff at Salt Lake County's Whitmore Branch was supportive and accommodating. And for a community paper, what's more community-oriented than the local library? slcolibrary.org

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