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• Derek Carlisle
• Scion Cider Bar’s charcuterie board offers a feast of cured meats, vegan fig salami, cheeses and more.

Best Charcuterie Board
Scion Cider Bar
While the long list of inventive and spirited hard ciders is reason enough to come to Scion Cider in the Central 9th neighborhood, they've got hearty snacks to supplement your imbibing. With rotating selections including cured meats from Olympia Provisions and Underground Meats, vegan fig salami and of course, cheeses, Scion's comes out on top for its invitation to play mix-and-match with the spread. 916 S. Jefferson St. West, SLC, 801-326-0349, scionciderbar.com
2. White Horse Spirits & Kitchen
3. Salt & Olive

Best Made-in-Utah Food Product
Beehive Cheese
This is not the cheese you grew up on—it's in a league of its own. Beehive Cheese is a dairy deity dominating entirely in the realm of curd-based creations. It's as if the cheese maestros of Utah conjured up a culinary masterpiece, and us ordinary folks have the privilege to relish this enchantment. Their barely buzzed & sea hive cheese are udderly irresistible! Step up your charcuterie board and holidays with Beehive! 2440 E. 6600 South, Ste. 8, Uintah, 801-476-0900, beehivecheese.com
2. Sauced Up Salsa
3. Salsa Queen

Best Must-Have Appetizer
White Horse Spirits & Kitchen Egg n' Chips
When White Horse first opened, the unexpected surprise hit came from their appetizer's menu: The Egg n' Chips has been a best-seller and a Salt Lake staple item. The dish is presented in a brown bag, but don't let first impressions fool you; you'll be scraping the bottom of it in no time. The Egg n' Chips are prepared with their house potato chips, a gooey 63-degree sous vide egg, malt vinegar powder and truffle. 325 S. Main, SLC, 801-363-0137; Airport location: 474 N. 3700 West, SLC, 801-558-8579; whitehorseslc.com
2. Ivy & Varley Everything Brussels
3. Oak Wood Fire Kitchen Baked Goat Cheese

Best Pretzel
Bohemian Brewery
Leave it to the Bavarian experts at Bohemian Brewery to perfect the classic pretzel. Theirs comes hanging on a hook like a new pea coat and is served with a rich tavern cheese sauce. Even if you're hosting a group of four, this soft knot of freshly baked goodness is enough to whet everyone's appetite. Pulling off bits of pretzel to dab in that golden cheese sauce is a perfect way to begin a meal at Bohemian. 94 E. 7200 South, Midvale, 801-566-5474, bohemianbrewery.com
2. Ice Haus
3. Level Crossing Brewing Co.

Best Sliders
Post Office Place
Initially invented as a bar waiting room for Takashi next door, Post has since proven it's not just their cocktails worth pulling up a chair for—and, last year, snagged a James Beard Award semi-finalist designation in the process. Among their elegant lineup of sleek bites and salads, Post's Japanese-inspired sliders are the perfect, hearty bite. Go classic with a smashed beef patty, or try your slider with spam and pickles, crispy katsu or Japanese chicken meatballs. 16 W. Market St., SLC, 801-519-9595, popslc.com
2. Marley's Gourmet Sliders
3. Beehive Distilling

Best Tapas
Eva
The "small plates" concept is really all about avoiding FOMO—e.g., seeing a menu with a dozen amazing-looking things on it, and realizing you can try a bunch of them. But at Eva, the problem is deciding what not to bring to your table: The sublime lobster ravioli? The savory roasted tri-tip bruschetta? The harmonious combination of the fig and pig pizza? The capacity of your stomach might be the only limitation when facing such difficult choices. 317 S. Main, SLC, 801-359-8447, evaslc.com
2. Finca
3. Café Madrid

Best Wings
Trolley Wing Co.
It's the attention to detail that makes the chicken wings at Trolley Wing Co. No. 1. Before the wings even get hit with their signature sauces, they get prepped and fried to golden perfection. In a foodie landscape that often considers chicken wings to be an afterthought, it's nice to have a local spot that takes wings seriously. Multiple locations, trolleywingco.com
2. Wasatch Wing Coop
3. A Bar Named Sue

Best Bento Boxes
Tsunami Restaurant & Sushi Bar
Tsunami Restaurant is killing it in the world of bento boxes. Their commitment to culinary excellence is evident in every meticulously crafted bento box. The artful presentation is a feast for the eyes. For $15, you will not go hungry—the choices they give you are incredible: steak and sushi with tempura?! And do not fret, they can accommodate allergies and gluten-free! Multiple locations, tsunamiutah.com
2. Sapa Sushi Bar & Asian Grill
3. Japan-Sage Market

Best Dim Sum
Hong Kong Tea House
Dim-sum-loving locals know good dim sum can be hard to come by and consistently good dim sum is even rarer. Yet Hong Kong Tea House has been pulling it off for decades. Available six days a week (closed Mondays) until 3 p.m., choose from nearly 50 Cantonese favorites like fried sesame balls, homemade dumplings, sticky rice in lotus leaf, foil wrapped chicken and more, accompanied by a comforting cup of Dragon Well tea. 565 W. 200 South, SLC, 801-531-7010, hongkongteahouse.yolasite.com
2. Red Maple Chinese Restaurant
3. New Golden Dragon

• Derek Carlisle
• Yoko Ramen’s crepe-like gyoza

Best Dumpling/Gyoza
Yoko Ramen
No dumpling compares to these magical little pockets of fried joy. Yoko Ramen's got great ramen, but their star appetizer is gyoza, which are somehow enmeshed together by a thin, crepe-like batter of sorts. It's a crisp welcome to the warm, savory chew of the dumplings, which are filled with either pork or local mushrooms. 473 E. 300 South, SLC, 801-876-5267, yokoslc.com
2. David's Kitchen
3. Kyoto Japanese Restaurant

Best Fried Egg Rolls
All Chay
There's a lot of winning options at All Chay, SLC's beloved all-vegan Vietnamese treasure, but sometimes it's the little things you really require. All Chay's egg rolls hit the spot, so much so that you may feel compelled to order one of their noodle salads just to get the bonus of a halved egg roll nestled into the pile. Don't forget to dunk your roll in the sweet chili sauce! 1264 W. 500 North, SLC, 801-521-4789, facebook.com/allchayveganrestaurant
2. Mi La-Cai Noodle House
3. The Pearl

Best Katsu
Comfort Bowl
Comfort Bowl's chicken katsu is well worth a drive across town to find their food truck, and you won't mind waiting in line for it, either. A crispy but so-tender-and-moist fried chicken breast is cooked up fresh while you wait, then covered with a sumptuous garlic and ginger sauce. It's served with a side of steamed rice and a Thai salad. To. Die. For. Follow that truck! facebook.com/Comfortbowl
2. Mo' Bettahs Hawaiian Style Food
3. Yoko Ramen SLC

Best Korean Bibimbap
Korea House BBQ
Bibimbap is a traditional Korean dish that consists of a bowl of steamed rice topped with veggies, beef, chicken or tofu and a raw egg yolk. One of the most popular dishes on the menu, Korea House BBQ's bibimbap is top-notch, made from scratch daily for lunch and dinner services. Pair it with a side of kimchi or their Spicy Fried Pork Pot Stickers for a fresh take on some Korean classics. 145 E. 1300 South, 801-487-3900, koreahousesaltlake.com
2. Stun Cube
3. Myung Ga Restaurant

Best Momos
Himalayan Kitchen
Pretty much everything on the menu at Himalayan Kitchen is great, but there is something next level about their momos. Maybe it's the chewy steamed dough, the perfectly seasoned fillings or simply how cute they look when they arrive at your table. Whatever their X factor may be, it's had diners coming back for more since the restaurant first opened. 360 S. State, SLC, 801-328-2077; 11521 S. 4000 West, Ste. 105, South Jordan, 801-254-0800; himalayankitchen.com
2. Cafe Shambala
3. Nepali Chulo

Best Pad Thai
Sawadee Thai Restaurant
A downtown and Avenues staple for getting your Thai fix, Sawadee also offers the perfect solution to any acute pad thai craving. Expect a large plate with all the sides you hanker after, plus options to add chicken, shrimp or tofu to the nest of noodles. Plus, you can snag it on the lunch menu for a modest price and a smaller portion. 754 E. South Temple, SLC, 801-328-8424, sawadee1.com
2. Skewered Thai
3. Tea Rose Diner

• Derek Carlisle
• Takashi’sSpider Roll

Best Spider Roll
Takashi
To truly experience this extraordinary eatery, you must try one or two of the specialty rolls. We suggest starting with the spider roll to see how Takashi's stacks up against the others. At Takashi, it's rolled just right with crispy, soft-shelled crab, kaiware sprouts, eel sauce, spicy sauce and sesame seeds. And thanks to owner Takashi Gibo's standards of preparation, it's exactly what a spider roll is meant to be. Let this be your baseline for all future rolls. 18 W. Market St., SLC, 801-519-9595, takashisushi.com
2. Sapa Sushi Bar & Asian Grill
3. Itto Sushi

• Derek Carlisle
• Bagels at The Bagel Project rock, as do their bialys.

Best Bagel
The Bagel Project
It took two transplants from New Jersey to help Salt Lakers experience true East Coast bagels. Through trial and error, the owners re-created the taste of their childhoods, making bagels from scratch sans preservatives, sugar, eggs or honey. It's not the water, they claim, but rather the old-world fermentation process that sets theirs apart. With varied flavors and spreads from hummus to jam to cream cheese, they'll have you munching like a pro in a New York minute. 779 S. 500 East, SLC, 801-906-0698, bagelproject.com
2. Rich's Bagels
3. Cheryl's Bagels

Best Ramen
JINYA Ramen Bar
Ramen is one of those rare dishes that can be both hip and humble, and JINYA has thrived by making it the former. Every JINYA location just feels like it makes you cooler by association. Whether you've gone with the popular black garlic tonkotsu or the vegan Red Fire Opal, you're getting something that tastes every bit as good as it looks—a trademark of hip ambassadors everywhere. Multiple locations, jinyaramenbar.com
2. Tosh's Ramen
3. Yoko Ramen

Best Thai Curry
Skewered Thai
With every spoonful, the flavor explosion of Skewered Thai's curry catapults your taste buds to the bustling streets of Bangkok. The rich, velvety sauce hugs tender morsels of meat or vegetables, creating a harmonious blend of creamy and spicy that's nothing short of perfection. The pumpkin curry makes you close your eyes, savor the moment and wonder how you ever lived without it. 575 S. 700 East, SLC, 801-364-1144, skeweredthai.com
2. Chanon Thai Café
3. Tea Rose Diner

Best Donuts
Banbury Cross Donuts
Banbury Cross has become one of those reliable winners, and for good reason—their amazing light and fluffy confections are impossible to resist. For decades now, many a workday in a Utah office has gotten a boost from employees walking in to see that magical box with the rocking horse logo, letting you know that sweet deliciousness resides within. Locations in SLC, Centerville and Layton, Facebook.com/BanburyCrossDonuts
2. Fresh Donuts & Deli
3. Chubby Baker

Best Kouign Amann
Eva's Bakery
You can't go wrong with any of the baked goods in the case at Eva's Bakery, but if you want to treat yourself to the very best (and if they're not sold out), order the kouign amann. But don't take our word for it. According to one IG follower, "These are the damn best on this planet." When it comes to flaky, crunchy, gooey, sticky, sugary laminated layers of buttery dough, that's a contest we wouldn't mind judging. 155 S. Main, SLC, 801-355-3942, evasbakeryslc.com
2. Fillings & Emulsions
3. Gourmandise

Best Specialty Cakes
Tulie Bakery
If cakes went to heaven, Tulie's would be on order. The French bakery is the place to get your special occasion cakes for your most loved ones (or yourself! Let's be honest about the importance of buying yourself the perfect b-day cake). Local favorites include their lush olive oil cake, which blushes with citrus notes and luxe brown butter buttercream frosting. They even offer flourless cakes, like their fudgy chocolate cake with ganache. 863 E. 700 South, SLC, 801-883-9741; 1510 S. 1500 East, SLC, 801-410-4217; tuliebakery.com
2. The Chocolate, A Dessert Cafe
3. Granite Bakery & Bridal Showcase

Best Vegan Cakes /Confections
Sweet Hazel & Co.
Sweet Hazel is maybe best-known for its vegan iterations of popular candy brands, satisfying the sweet tooths of countless vegans in the valley. Their "Galaxy Bars," "Crunchies" and peanut butter cups are amazing, but they also offer versions of favorite childhood sweets, like Cosmic Brownies topped with candy sprinkles, Funfetti mini cakes and Samoa bars. Go forth and indulge, the vegan way! 282 W. 7200 South, Midvale, 801-889-1466, sweethazelandco.com
2. City Cakes & Cafe
3. Passion Flour Patisserie

• Derek Carlisle
• Dress the pulled pork your way at SugarHouse Barbeque.

Best BBQ Pulled Pork
SugarHouse Barbeque
SugarHouse BBQ has been smoking meat for nearly 30 years, so it's no surprise they know something about pulled pork. They also know something about their customers' BBQ preferences. While we could debate 'til the hogs come home about which regional style is best, SugarHouse lets you dress up your pork the way you like with four signature sauces: vinegary Carolina Pig, mustard, cayenne-based hot sauce or sweet and tangy barbecue. 880 E. 2100 South, SLC, 801-463-4800, sugarhousebbq.com
2. Salt City Barbecue
3. Charlotte-Rose's Carolina BBQ

• Derek Carlisle
• Hruska kolaches: for breakfast on the go

Best Breakfasts to Go
Hruska's Kolaches
As wonderful as breakfast burritos are, it can be quite difficult to eat one and successfully navigate the morning commute. In contrast, the breakfast kolaches at Hruska's make for a tasty, filling breakfast that's pretty easy to eat while on the move. Whether it's stuffed with ham, cheese and scrambled eggs or one of their tasty cream cheese and fruit variations, a kolache in the morning pretty much guarantees a good day. Multiple locations, hruskaskolaches.com
2. Apollo Burger
3. Red Moose Coffee Co.

Best Hawaiian Barbecue
Mo' Bettahs Hawaiian Style Food
Utah's Polynesian population is nearly 27,000—the fourth-largest Polynesian community in the country after Hawai'i, California and Washington. Mo' Bettahs re-created the feel of family gatherings by serving up the best Hawaiian barbecue around. Grilled and roasted meats, such as teriyaki chicken, kalua pork and beef are plentiful at Mo' Bettahs, and no Hawaiian barbecue is complete without a heaping serving of macaroni salad. Multiple locations, mobettahs.com
2. Kokonut Island Grill
3. Moki's Hawaiian Grill

Best Biscuits & Gravy
Sweet Lake Biscuits & Limeade
Putting "biscuits" in the name of your restaurant is like throwing down a gauntlet, and Sweet Lake continues to defend its reputation. It doesn't matter if their biscuits are slathered in that delicious sausage gravy or topped with a bit of homemade jam, there's something special in each bite. Biscuits are rarely seen as main course material, but Sweet Lake will always be here to remind us. Multiple locations, sweetlakefresh.com
2. Ruth's Diner
3. Lazy Day Cafe

Best Breakfast Burrito
Beto's Mexican Food
Breakfast burritos are hard to screw up, which makes a truly great breakfast burrito even harder to acquire. Somehow, every location of Beto's manages to whip up the absolute finest breakfast burrito in town, which is an impressive feat in itself. Whether it's the gargantuan size or the savory fillings, it's hard to do better than one of these lovelies. Multiple locations, betosmexicanfood.com
2. Alberto's
3. Rancherito's Mexican Food

Best Breakfast Sandwich
Central 9th Market
For the second year in a row, City Weekly readers have turned to Central 9th Market for their breakfast sando of choice—and it's easy to see why. The market is already a sweet spot to visit in general, perched at the beating heart of the Central 9th Neighborhood. But the sandwich itself is a thing of artful simplicity: a pitch-perfect combination of egg, pork and cheese punctuated by two slices of impeccable wood-fired bread. 161 W. 900 South, SLC, 385-332-3240, central9th.com
2. Frankie & Essl's
3. Roots Cafe

Best Chicken & Waffles
Pig & A Jelly Jar
No local restaurant quite nails a savory breakfast in the way that Pig & A Jelly Jar does. Perhaps the best example of this is their chicken and waffles. No flavor opportunity is missed with this dish–golden brown waffles that manage to simultaneously soak up syrup and remain crispy and juicy fried chicken that hits all the right savory notes. Multiple locations, pigandajellyjar.com
2. Hub and Spoke Diner
3. Bruges Belgian Bistro

Best Cannoli
Carlucci's Bakery
Cannoli is one of those desserts that doesn't get enough love, as many Italian joints don't see them for their full potential. This is why Carlucci's is so important—their take on this traditional dessert presents the cannoli as it should be. The creamy, rich filling is piped into the crisp shell as soon as you order, and it's as close to dessert perfection as one can get. 314 W. 300 South, Ste. 1, SLC, 801-366-4484, carluccisbakery.com
2. Sicilia Mia
3. Osteria Amore

• Derek Carlisle
• Brats: Siegfried’s serves up the best of the wurst!

Best Brats
Siegfried's Delicatessen
There is a fine art to crafting the perfect bratwurst, and Siegfried's Delicatessen manages to nail it every single time. Whether you get one in-house, sliced up on a kaiser roll and doused in mustard, or take some home to grill up yourself, you're getting the best bratwurst this side of Frankfurt. The snap, the notes of black pepper and garlic—everything lands exactly where it's supposed to. 20 W. 200 South, SLC, 801-355-3891, siegfriedsdelicatessen.com
2. Bohemian Brewery
3. Beer Bar

• Courtesy photo
• One of many greats on the menu: Lucky 13’s jalalpeño popper burger

Best Burger
Lucky 13 Bar & Grill
Lucky 13 shows up regularly on our Best of Utah lists, but its burger expertise officially expanded to the national stage when enjoytravel.com listed it as the 14th best burger joint in the country. Perhaps Lucky 13 always manages to snag these accolades because the place simply embodies everything that makes a burger great: diverse ingredients, unassuming presentation and just enough edge to be charming. 135 W. 1300 South, SLC, 801-487-4418, lucky13slc.com
2. Crown Burgers
3. Proper Burger Co.

Best Ribs
Salt City Barbecue
If barbecue were a meteor, Salt City’s would be the story to describe it. Salt City Barbecue has taken the local BBQ scene by storm in barely a few years. Best, they've accomplished this feat as a food truck, not as a brick-and-mortar location with all the giant gizmos. They’ve quickly acquired a loyal customer base to go along with their stacks of awards for not just ribs, but also brisket, steak, chicken, pork, appetizers and dessert. Surely, nachos are next. Find them and dig in, folks. 801-899-5541. Visit website for food truck locations: saltcitybbq.co
2. Pat's Barbecue
3. SugarHouse Barbeque

Best Crepes
Monsieur Crepes
In a Sugar House store that looks like a French corner deli, French chef Maxime Ambeza and his wife, Raysha Carrasco, utilize traditional French recipes to create distinctive crepes for their customers. Their menu includes an extensive list of sweet and savory fillings. Sweet fillings include Nutella, strawberry, banana and chocolate, while savory offerings include brie, prosciutto, tomato and spinach. Bon appetit! 1617 S. 900 East, SLC, 787-358-9930, monsieurcrepesut.us
2. Greenhouse Effect Coffee and Crepes
3. Dali Crepes Catering & Cafe

Best Eggs Benedict
Finn's Cafe
It seems like every new restaurant menu these days touts "reimagined" takes on classic dishes, but Finn's Cafe makes a strong case that classics should be classic for a reason. After all, why mess with the perfection that is the delicately poached egg, savory Canadian bacon and buttery hollandaise sauce atop a toasted English muffin. It's just one of many ways Finn's champions heritage and tradition at the heart of its Sugar House cafe. 1624 S. 1100 East, SLC, 801-467-4000, finnscafe.net
2. Sweet Lake Biscuits & Limeade
3. Hub and Spoke Diner

Best French Toast
Kneaders Bakery & Cafe
Kneaders bakers slice two thick pieces of their chunky cinnamon bread, dip it in a seasoned egg wash, then cook up their delectable French toast. They top it with housemade caramel syrup, a whipped cream dollop and fresh-from-the-farm strawberries. Enjoy it in-house or take a kit home for a family breakfast: The French Toast Feast Family Kit includes 10 slices of Chunky Cinnamon French toast, 10 strips of bacon, whipped topping, sliced strawberries and caramel syrup. A chef's kiss to your day! Multiple locations, kneaders.com
2. The Park Café
3. Hub and Spoke Diner

Best Pancakes
Penny Ann's Cafe
We often forget that the word "cake" is right there in "pancake," but Penny Ann's Cafe helps us remember what this breakfast staple shares with dessert. Eating an order of Penny Ann's "heavenly" pancakes instantly evokes every slice of birthday cake you've ever had, only this time you get to eat it for breakfast and with maple syrup. Multiple locations, pennyannscafe.com
2. Lazy Day Cafe
3. Roots Cafe

Best Quiche
Eva's Bakery
With its charming atmosphere and intimate bistro furnishings, Eva's Bakery will transport you to a Paris sidewalk café. Once you sample their breakfast menu, Eva's will be a regular stop for your petit-dejeuner. They serve quiche Lorraine and veggie quiche daily—both light and fluffy. Try them with potatoes, fresh greens or a scrumptious orange muffin. Don't forget to pick up a treat for later. The chocolate croissant and the salted caramel macarons are délicieux! 155 S. Main, SLC, 801-355-3942, evasbakeryslc.com
2. Tulie Bakery
3. Beaumont Bakery & Cafe

Best Comfort Food Dish
The Bayou's Jambalaya
Said to be a dish that combines various influences from multiple cultures inhabiting the Port of New Orleans. The Cajun and Creole dish has many interpretations around the world, but here in SLC, the Bayou has mastered it, turning it into a famous staple at the Cajun-themed bar. Try it with shrimp or crawfish—and there's even a vegetarian option. 645 S. State, SLC, 801-961-8400, utahbayou.com
2. Wasatch Brew Pub Loaded Mac N Cheese
3. Sauce Boss Southern Kitchen Shrimp and Grits

Best French Fries
Lucky 13
You know them for their burgers and sandwiches—The Nut Butter and The Big Benny are musts when visiting—but keep in mind that Lucky 13 has the best fries in town. Get the good ol' regular fries, or live large with a basket of Cajun or rosemary-garlic fries. Look, no one's going to win a "freshest breath" competition after visiting Lucky 13 anyway, so go ahead and load up on those garlic fries. Your taste buds will thank you. 135 W. 1300 South, SLC, 801-487-4418, lucky13slc.com
2. Crown Burgers
3. Patty Shack

• Alize Harding
• Ice Haus’ poutine is made with French fries, squeaky cheese curds and rich brown gravy.

Best Poutine
Ice Haus
Best poutine has to go to Ice Haus because you can go two ways with the delicious fry gravy—classic, with a side of any of their German-inspired eats, or vegan mode ... with any of their German-inspired vegan eats. A big pile of fries with Ice Haus' poutine gravy generously poured over the top is the warm, filling taste treat to share at your table when hanging at this charming neighborhood pub. 7 E. 4800 South, Murray, 801-266-2127, icehausbar.com
2. SpudToddos
3. Hopkins Brewing Co.

Best Meatloaf
Ruth's Diner
The meatloaf at Ruth's Diner is a mood. It's a vibe. It's everything. A mainstay on the menu, this dinner entree— served with mashed potatoes, gravy and sautéed veggies—is from a traditional recipe. Don't resist ordering comfort food at Ruth's—you'll still be cool. Cool comes with the territory. And no matter who your mom was or what her meatloaf tasted like, Ruth's will always have it beat by a country mile. 4160 Emigration Canyon Road, SLC, 801-582-5807, ruthsdiner.com
2. Tradition
3. Franck's Restaurant

Best Sweet Potato Fries
The Bayou
The Bayou's sweet potato fries are unmatched. They're expertly cut and fried to golden perfection, achieving that coveted crispy exterior that's a hallmark of great fries. But what truly sets them apart is their secret seasoning blend, which adds a tantalizing kick that elevates each bite. You can order them 50/50 with a mix of regular fries. By the way, their dipping sauce is delightful! 645 S. State, SLC, 801-961-8400, utahbayou.com
2. Cubby's
3. Spitz

Best Vegan Burger
Grid City Beer Works
Every brewery worth its hops has an accompanying kitchen—or ties to the local food truck or pop-up community. Every so often one of the kitchens gains a following. Found in a funky zone of off-ramps and light industry, Grid City Beer Works is a destination for fans of both food and drink. The beer? Super-solid. The food? So good! And the vegan burger— a double-decked, house-blended style of vegan excellence, served with vegan cheddar on a brioche bun—has taken the top spot with our readers. 333 W. 2100 South, SLC, 801-906-8390, gridcitybeerworks.com
2. Proper Brewing Co.
3. Old Cuss Cafe

Best Beignet
Pig & A Jelly Jar
Pig & A Jelly Jar serves a fresh, from scratch menu with a unique twist on Southern comfort food. Brunch driven, Pig serves breakfast and lunch all day. No food says French Quarter more than a traditional beignet. Pig's beignets are made on site and best served warm with their delicious blueberry compote. At Pig, they believe food should be made with love, served with integrity and should include a unique dining experience. Multiple locations, pigandjellyjar.com
2. Thirst Drinks
3. Franklin Ave Cocktails & Kitchen

• Courtesy photo
• The Wizard Hat, with a caramel center, at Momo’s Gourmet Cheesecake Co.

Best Cheesecake
Momo's Gourmet Cheesecake Co.
Cheesecake can be a finicky dessert to perfect, so the fact that every mini, cutie and standard full cheesecake you get from Momo's hits the right balance between firm and creamy is worth our attention. Their seasonal flavors give each visit enough variety to keep coming back, and their flavors are always sweet and refreshing. Multiple locations, momoscheesecakes.com
2. The Dodo Restaurant
3. Tin Roof Grill

Best Bread Pudding
The Grand America Hotel
Even if you think you're not a bread pudding fan, try this one. Made with croissants and topped with rum sauce, the Grand America's singular bread pudding matches the classic elegance of its opulent downtown setting. Rich and moist, with a firm outside and tender center, the pudding is accompanied by a divine rum sauce that is delicious and heavenly. You may find yourself wanting to drink the sauce on its own. 555 S. Main, SLC, 801-258-6000, grandamerica.com
2. The Copper Onion
3. Caffé Molise

Best Chocolate Cake
Caffé Molise
A real winner from a beloved Italian hotspot. While there are several toothsome toppers to tuck into at this trattoria, this treat is tops. Extravagantly rich in flavor and dense in makeup, this moist confection combines dark chocolate with a whisper of cinnamon for a dessert that is positively squisito. 404 S. West Temple, SLC, 801-364-8833, caffemolise.com
2. Tulie Bakery
3. The Chocolate, a Dessert Cafe

Best Cookies
RubySnap Fresh Cookies
It's hard to give a menu of cookies character, but this is where RubySnap succeeds. Each of its cookie varieties gets a name and pinup persona to go along with its flavor combo and, man, does it work. The cranberry, almond and white chocolate Aubrey embodies the girl next door with a secret, and the chocolate chip mango Viviana just wants to take you dancing all night. 770 S. 300 West, SLC, 801-834-6111, rubysnap.com
2. Crumbl Cookies
3. Chip Cookies

Best Decadent Dessert
Gourmandise
Ooh-la-la! You might think you were in France when you drool over the bakery case at Gourmandise. Each cake, tart and pastry is meticulously appointed to look almost too good to eat. And yet, you must. Take the Queen Emma, for example. "Layers of tropical cakes and mousse (guava, passion fruit and coconut). Finished with coconut Chantilly cream, guava glaze, fresh berry garnish and white chocolate curl." That's just one reason Gourmandise is Utah's finest in decadence. Locations in Salt Lake, Draper and American Fork, gourmandise.com
2. The Chocolate, A Dessert Cafe
3. Délice Bakery & Café

Best Macaron
Fillings & Emulsions
Macarons are not just a special dessert—they're a delicate art form. The ultimate macaron aficionado must stop by Fillings & Emulsions where they are celebrating 10 years. Not only can you indulge in macarons on the spot but you can bring home assorted or customized boxes of 6, 12, 35 and even a "tower" of 200. Picture a tiny, exquisite sandwich, where every bite explodes with flavor! 1475 S. Main, SLC, 385-229-4228; 1980 W. 3500 South, West Valley City, 385-549-1167; fillingsandemulsions.com
2. Gourmandise
3. Eva's Bakery

• Courtesy photo
• Twisted Tiramisu: Dessert with a little something extra

Best Tiramisu
Twisted Tiramisu
Turning 40, Pam Williams felt it was time to pursue a hobby. Her love of cooking for co-workers led to the creation of Twisted Tiramisu. It's a web-based business offering tiramisu—a delicious Italian custard-like dessert—in "twisted" flavors. Trending flavors include passion fruit, crème brulee and Boston cream pie, all available to order online and pick up in Midvale. Fillings don't always include coffee—sometimes it's infused milk, juice, tea, or local spirits, says Williams. twistedtiramisuslc.com
2. Sicilia Mia
3. Osteria Amore

Best Gelato
Dolcetti Gelato
It's as if an Italian designer uploaded his portfolio across this creatively quirky venue. A gazillion chandeliers accompany Asian umbrellas and inflatable globes—and that's just the ceiling. A feast for the palate happily accompanies this visual extravaganza. One-hundred and fifty artisanal gelato flavors rotate daily next to a cabinet where cookies, brownies, macarons and pastries, tea and espresso, are temptingly available. Once you pick a flavorful treat, relax on an overstuffed couch, to bask and enjoy. 902 E. 900 South, SLC, 801-485-3254, dolcettigelato.com
2. Sweetaly Gelato
3. Capo Gelateria Italiana

Best Steakhouse Prime Rib
Maddox Ranch House
Maddox Ranch House is Utah's original steakhouse and well-known for its quality cuts of beef, including prime rib. Slow-cooked all day, the pepper-encrusted hearty portion of protein is served after 3 p.m. and, heads up, limited in quantity. Served with the perfect homemade au jus, it is the stuff of cravings for carnivores. Early-bird diners can enjoy a prime rib special from 3 p.m.-5 p.m. daily for only $20.95. 1900 S. Highway 89, Perry, 435-723-8545, maddoxfinefood.com
2. Christopher's Prime + Sonoma Wine Bar & Grill
3. Carvers Steak & Seafood

Best Steakhouse Rib-eye
Ruth's Chris Steak House
Who knew a broiled steak could taste so good? Apparently, founder Ruth Fertel did, and her patented broiler has been in use since the mid-'60s. The 16-ounce USDA prime cut rib-eye is generously seasoned and served sizzling on a 500-degree plate. The well-marbled juicy steak is a meal all its own—but you'll want to order the signature sides, too! Multiple (154) locations worldwide, including in SLC and Park City, ruthschris.com
2. Maddox Ranch House
3. Grub Steak

Best Gyro
Greek Souvlaki
Staple foods like the cheeseburger, taco or Greek gyro are easy to make good, but difficult to make great, which speaks to the consistency of Greek Souvlaki. With four locations (downtown, Murray, West Valley City and South Jordan), Greek Souvlaki combines quality and convenience, and their mouthwatering pita, lamb and white sauce (or red) will leave you both full and looking forward for more. Multiple locations, greeksouvlaki.com
2. Yanni's Greek Express
3. Santorini's Greek Grill

• Courtesy photo
• Greek Souvlaki grilled meat skewers are tops.

Best Souvlaki
Greek Souvlaki
Once again, Greek Souvlaki takes home the gold in the Best Souvlaki category. The delectable chicken or pork is stacked with grilled veggies and is perfect on its own or accompanying one of Greek Souvlaki's many traditional Greek side dishes. Looking for an easy catering option for a party or event? "The Souv's" souvlaki catering options are a great choice to feed a squad. Multiple locations, greeksouvlaki.com
2. Yanni's Greek Express
3. Crown Burgers

• Courtesy photo
• Italian Village’s calzone(aka pizza bender)

Best Calzone
Italian Village
For more than half a century, since 1968, Italian Village has offered reasonably priced Italian fare to prom dates, families and anyone seeking delicious food. Here's a hint—on the menu, the sumptuous and customizable calzone is called a pizza bender. It comes stuffed with ham, pepperoni, sausage and cheese (or you can substitute any three-item combo) for $7.99. Enjoy the calzone and accompanying iceberg dinner salad, and it's no more hunger pangs. 5370 S. 900 East, Millcreek, 801-266-4182, italianvilliageslc.com
2. The Pie Pizzeria
3. Rusted Sun Pizzeria

Best Lamb Dish
Mazza
This isn't just a dish; it's a culinary mic drop, a cheeky slap of flavor that leaves you begging for more. The lamb at Mazza is practically whispering sweet nothings to your taste buds. Get your toes wet with an appetizer of seasoned lamb meatballs. Next, try the lamb kebab or dishes such as lamb and rice dolaa, lamb and spinach or the Mazza lamb shank. If you want to taste the epitome of lamb perfection, Mazza is your destination. 1515 S. 1500 East, SLC, 801-484-9259, mazzacafe.com
2. The Other Place Restaurant
3. Manoli's

Best Biryani
Himalayan Kitchen
As biryani, rice becomes star of the show. And at Himalayan Kitchen, biryani (which, depending on location, can be served with chicken, goat, lamb, prawn or vegetables) is at its most savory and comforting. Basmati rice is cooked with curry spices, toasted nuts and fried onions. Drizzle cool raita over it, and you've got yourself a complete meal. 360 S. State, SLC, 801-328-2077, himalayankitchen.com; 11521 S. 4000 West, South Jordan, 801-254-0800, himalayankitchensouthjordan.com
2. Saffron Valley
3. Mumbai House

Best Carbonara
Sicilia Mia
Before Sicilia Mia opened, Francesco Mirenda created a Sicilian carbonara. Diners are treated to a tableside presentation prepared inside a 2-foot wide grana padano cheese wheel. Parmigiana pecorino cheese is added before hot house-made noodles blend inside the cheese wheel with other ingredients, including eggs and pancetta. The result is a carbonara whose rich flavor is a show-stopper equal to its luxurious presentation. Enjoy this dish at both Sicilia Mia and their sister restaurant in Millcreek, Antica Sicilia. 4536 Highland Drive, SLC, 801-274-0223, siciliamiautah.com
2. The Copper Onion
3. Italian Graffiti

Best Eggplant Parmesan
Valter's Osteria
The old world meets new at Valter's Osteria, an Italian fine-dining establishment in downtown SLC. Entering this gem, with its white tablecloths, multiple meal courses, full bar and open kitchen, you feel like you've flown to Italy for dinner. Valter's delicious eggplant Parmesan (melanzane al forno) is always a popular choice. The succulent sliced eggplant is baked, topped with mozzarella and served with fresh tomato sauce. 173 W. 300 South, SLC, 801-521-4563,valtersosteria.com
2. Sicilia Mia
3. Per Noi Trattoria

Best Ravioli
Valter's Osteria
My, but our readers do love Valter's Osteria's housemade ravioli! Perhaps it's because of the daily sampler on offer in which Valter's ravioli and gnocchi are served as a first course or appetizer (a recent sampler featured a spinach and butternut squash ravioli with Valter's mother's meat sauce). Or, if cheese is your obsession, just dive into the comfort of a plateful of four-cheese ravioli with cream sauce and asparagus. 173 W. 300 South, SLC, 801-521-4563, valtersosteria.com
2. Caffé Molise
3. Sicilia Mia

Best Birria Taco
La Casa Del Tamal
In an eatery that claims "passion" is the most important ingredient in its cuisine, you can trust that each bite of La Casa Del Tamal's birria taco is a flavorful fiesta. Its tender, spice-infused meat is tucked into a crispy tortilla shell, and it comes alive when you dunk it in a rich consommé. More than just a taco, the drippy goodness takes the crunch to a whole new level. 2843 S. 5600 West, Ste.140, West Valley City, 385-266-8729, lacasadeltamalutah.com
2. Los Tapatios Taco Grill
3. Santo Taco

Best Ceviche
La Cevicheria
Sure, the words "ceviche" and "Utah" don't necessarily belong together, but the team at La Cevicheria has raised the bar for this classic dish. It's perhaps best enjoyed on a sweltering summer day with a shot of tequila, but anyone craving the delightful acidity and herbaceous flavors of a good ceviche needs to check this place out, ¡pronto! 123 E. 200 South, SLC, 801-906-0016, lacevicheriautah.com
2. Puro Peru Peruvian Grill
3. Barrio

Best Chilaquiles
Red Iguana
We all know that Red Iguana has been a staple in our city for over 40 years. Red Iguana's chilaquiles dish is a sunrise on a plate. The crispy tortilla chips, smothered in a sauce that's as enchanting as a magic spell, create a flavor alchemy that defies explanation. When it comes to this Mexican delight, Red Iguana has the chilaquiles game on lockdown, turning every meal into an ingenious celebration of taste. Multiple locations, rediguana.com
2. Maria's Méxican Grill
3. Eggs in the City

• Courtesy photo
• The whole enchilada at Blue Iguana

Best Enchilada
Blue Iguana
City Weekly readers voted Blue Iguana the Best Enchilada, but it's up to you decide which of their nine varieties is your favorite. Will it be spicy, slow-cooked chile verde? Creamy enchiladas suizas with mole poblano? Or maybe the enchiladas amarillas with tender carnitas? Any way you roll, be sure to pair your plate with a margarita (there are over a dozen of those to choose from) or the mezcal-based cantarito served in an authentic Mexican clay mug. 165 S. West Temple, SLC, 801-533-8900, blueiguanarestaurant.net
2. Tres Hombres Mexican Grill and Cantina
3. Red Iguana

Best Empanada
Arempa's
You may recognize them from the Food Network's Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. Their Venezuelan empanadas (as well as their arepas and cachapas) are handcrafted with meticulous care, guaranteeing the ideal ratio between the freshly made, savory fillings and the succulent corn cakes and fried pockets. These pockets of joy are among Utah's top culinary delights. Multiple locations, arempas.com
2. Argentina's Best Empanadas
3. Noemi's Cafe & Catering

Best Huevos Rancheros
Oasis Cafe
Oasis takes a traditional Mexican dish of eggs, tortilla and pico de gallo and conjures breakfast magic with it. (Apropos, given the New Age aura wafting from Golden Braid Books next door.) Combining the ranch-style dish with their own black bean puree, salmon chorizo and guacamole, this is a delectable brunch item that you can only find before 3 p.m. Don't sleep on this one. 151 S. 500 East, SLC, 801-322-0404, oasiscafeslc.com
2. Red Iguana
3. Eggs in the City

Best Menudo
La Casa Del Tamal
La Casa Del Tamal is packed most nights, and for good reason—the authentic Mexican restaurant brings a new flair for traditional Mexican dishes. And if you are curious about the menudo, know that it's a traditional soup made with tripe (the edible lining of a cow's stomach), chili powder, garlic and onion. If you truly espouse nose-to-tail dining, this hearty and delicious soup is for you. 2843 S. 5600 West, Ste. 140,West Valley City, 385-266-8729, lacasadeltamalutah.com
2. La Puente Restaurant
3. El Meño's

Best Nachos
Porcupine Pub & Grille
Even at their most chips-and-cheese basic, nachos are kind of a perfect pub appetizer. Then there's the glorious mountain of comfort food that is the Porcupine's nachos, as their blue and white tortilla chips get a boost from tomatoes, olives, jalapeños, scallions, cilantro, salsa, [pause for a breath] guacamole and sour cream, and that's before you decide whether to augment it with chicken or black beans, and make it a meal on its own. 3698 E. Fort Union Blvd., Cottonwood Heights, 801-942-5555, porcupinepub.com
2. Nacho Daddy
3. Lake Effect

• Visit Salt Lake
• Chile-Tepin’s magnificent molcajete

Best Molcajete
Chile-Tepin
Chile-Tepin prepares its classic Mexican dishes, including molcajete, from family recipes. If you've never tried a molcajete (meaning "mortar and pestle"), this is the place to experience it the "first time." Served in a stunning volcanic stone pot cradling a medley of succulent meats, grilled veggies and seafood, Chile-Tepin's molcajete bursts with flavor. It's a feast for your eyes and appetite as the ingredients mingle and delight all the senses. 307 W. 200 South, SLC, 801-883-9255, chile-tepin.com/home
2. Blue Iguana
3. La Casa Del Tamal

Best Quesadilla
Tres Hombres Mexican Grill & Cantina
Decked out with gorgeous artworks and plants, Tres Hombres rocks the cantina vibe quite nicely. Their quesadilla is a generous near platter-size portion, with a perfectly fried tortilla. Fillings include a choice of seasoned meat, chiles, cheeses and pico de gallo. To top it off, it's served with sour cream and guacamole. Olé! 3298 Highland Drive, Millcreek, 801-466-0054, treshombrescantina.net
2. Blue Iguana
3. Chunga's

Best Tacos
Facil Taqueria
These tacos are a balance between carefully crafted and uniquely inventive. Menu items include Nashville hot chicken tacos topped with Mexican escabeche and nutty pepita salsa macha; local mushroom tacos glazed with orange and ancho, topped with fermented cabbage; plus standbys like cauliflower and avocado tacos with house hot sauce and carrot chips. If you've yet to join the cult of Facil tacos, it's time to drink the Paloma! 4429 S. 2950 East, SLC, 801-878-9969, faciltaqueria.com
2. Roctaco
3. Taqueria 27

Best Tacos al Pastor
Chunga's
The tacos al pastor are the big-ticket item at Chunga's, made with savory, marinated pork, pineapple and greens. The iconic Mexican street food is but the tip of the iceberg for delicious eats at Chunga's—they have all the favorites (burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas) as well as excellent tortas and gorditas. 180 S. 900 West, SLC, 801-953-1840; 1895 S. Redwood Road, SLC, 801-973-6904; chungasslc.com
2. Real Taqueria
3. Santo Taco

Best Tamales
La Casa Del Tamal
Each masa-hugged tamale here is a work of art. And the fillings are a flavorful secret society your taste buds long to join. The history of this ancient food goes back 9,000 years; every aspect of preparation followed traditions and rituals. It's still a lengthy process today but you can now enjoy fresh tamales daily at La Casa Del Tamal. They use the recipe of the owner, whose hometown is Hildalgo, Mexico. 2843 S. 5600 West, Ste.140, West Valley City, 385-266-8729, lacasadeltamalutah.com
2. Victor's Restaurant
3. El Meño's

• Derek Carlisle
• Wait for the delicious crunch of Bricks Corner’s pizzas

Best Deep-Dish Pizza
Bricks Corner
Bricks Corner occupies a special place in the hearts of pizza fans. Once we've been seduced by the iconic crunch that develops on the edges of each Bricks Corner pie, we are forever changed. When such culinary alchemy is matched with a heap of tasty toppings, it's just hard to look at other pizzas the same way. 1465 S. 700 East, SLC, 801-953-0636, brickscornerslc.com
2. Slackwater
3. The Pie Pizzeria

Best Tres Leches
Cakes by Edith
Tres Leches is a staple in Latin cuisine. Consisting of, clearly, three types of milk (evaporated, condensed and heavy cream), this cake is moist and rich. Cakes by Edith, owned and operated by Edith and Jorge Lopez, has been perfecting Tres Leches and a plethora of other delicious desserts for over 15 years together. While Edith and Jorge make everything from scratch, they say their "secret ingredient is love." 1736 W. 5000 South, Taylorsville, 801-963-3743; 1515 W. 12600 South, Riverton, 801-542-0169; cakesbyedithbakery.com
2. Panadería Flores
3. Canela Bakery

Best Cauliflower Dish
Laziz Kitchen
Cauliflower, the humble crudite formerly in the dustbin of popular cooking, has made a major comeback in recent years, earning its own BOU category. Laziz Kitchen, on its website, describes how it takes its fried cauliflower and transforms it, Lebanese style, by adding just two ingredients: cumin and parsley. Simple, but astonishingly tasty. The three items come together in a marvelous way, prepared by skilled cooks who typically apply a less-is-more philosophy. And that's how a star is born. Three locations: Granary District, Midvale and downtown; lazizkitchen.com
2. HSL
3. Fav Bistro

Best Falafel
Laziz Kitchen
Laziz Kitchen's housemade blend of spiced garbanzo and fava beans perfectly captures falafel's crisp exterior and soft interior. Vegan and gluten-free, Falafel's a great add to any of the bowls and wraps at this small, locally owned chain. It's a pretty tasty appetizer by itself with a side of lemon tahini sauce, but when part of Laziz's signature dishes, the falafel really shines. Three locations: Granary District, Midvale and downtown, lazizkitchen.com
2. O'Falafel Middle Eastern Cuisine
3. Mazza

Best Shawarma
Mazza
Mazza's shawarma is a thing of beauty. Made with thin slices of lamb and beef marinated in seasonings, it's cooked on a standing grill, then shaved into a pita pocket and finished with tahini, greens and turnip pickles. The tender meat dances with seasonings, creating tantalizing flavors in every bite. Mazza has long held a special place in our community's heart, and this dish is one of the reasons why. 1515 S. 1500 East, SLC, 801-484-9259, mazzacafe.com
2. Curry Fried Chicken
3. Beirut Cafe

Best Gluten-Free Pizza
Slackwater Pizza
Slackwater, renowned for its delicious pizza, extends its culinary prowess to gluten-free offerings. What makes their gluten-free pizza so adored is the unwavering commitment to taste and quality. The gluten-free crust, often a challenging aspect, is perfected to achieve the ideal balance of crispiness and tenderness. It is so delicious you may ask yourself if it is actually gluten-free?! Hot Honey Double Pepperoni is a local favorite. Multiple locations, slackwaterpizzeria.com
2. The Pie Pizzeria
3. Este Pizzeria

Best Margherita Pizza
Settebello Pizzeria Napoletana
Settebello was one of the first U.S. pizzerias to be certified by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (VPN) which ensures that the Settebello pizza-making process upholds the traditions created in Napoli over 200 years ago. The fluffy, oven-charred Margherita pizza—made with crushed tomatoes, mozzarella di bufala, Parmigiano, basil and olio—is a perfect mix of crisp, cheesy and chewy, served piping hot. It's out of this world. 260 S. 200 West, SLC, 801-322-3556, settebello.net
2. Pizza Nono
3. Level Crossing Brewing Co.

Best Cobb Salad
The Dodo Restaurant
The Cobb may be a salad, yes, but it's also a satisfying meal when done right. And boy, does The Dodo know how to do it the right way. Their "Chef's Cobb" consists of fresh greens, crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, avocado, crumbled Gorgonzola and buttermilk dressing. Let us pray this fan favorite at the Dodo neighborhood bistro never goes extinct. 1355 E. 2100 South, SLC, 801-486-2473, thedodorestaurant.com
2. Red Rock Brewing Co.
3. Squatters Pub Brewery

Best Coleslaw
Feldman's Deli
It's not surprising to see Feldman's as a repeat winner in this category, because their approach to the classic deli side remains so unique. The amazing sandwiches served here find their perfect accompaniment in the flavorful mix of cabbage and carrot, creamy dressing, and that peppery punch of seasoning. Not only would it probably win a blind taste test, but anyone who had ever tried it before would know exactly where it came from. 2005 E. 2700 South, SLC, 801-906-0369, feldmansdeli.com
2. Pretty Bird
3. Salt City Barbecue

Best Salad
Spitz Doner Salad
What constitutes a good salad? For some, it may be a dense colorful salad that packs a punch. Those who prefer substantial salads would likely be the same ones who voted for Spitz's Doner Salad for Best Salad. It's a salad to be reckoned with: crunchy greens piled high with onions, peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, pepperoncinis, garbanzo beans and fried pita strips, topped off with luscious dressing. It's a salad lovers' green dream come true, and healthy, too! Multiple locations, spitz-restaurant.com
2. Sweet Hazel & Co. California Chick'n
3. Nomad East's Smoked Salmon Salad

Best Cheesesteak Sandwich
Moochie's Meatballs & More
If it's a hot sandwich with meat and cheese, you can bet Moochie's makes it better than anyone else. Their cheesesteak sandwich, for example, exudes indulgence—all that melty cheese and thinly sliced beef, and the freshly baked sandwich buns are to die for. Forget the plane ticket to the City of Brotherly Love–you can get all that and a bag of chips right here at Moochie's. Multiple locations, moochiesmeatballs.com
2. The Philadelphian
3. DP Cheesesteaks

Best Banh Mi Sandwich
Oh Mai Sandwich Kitchen
What started as a small Vietnamese kitchen on State Street has blossomed into a local banh mi empire. Even after Oh Mai's expansion to all areas of the Wasatch Front, their banh mi have remained satisfying, flavorful additions to our local food scene. From the simplicity of the sunny-side-up egg to the sophistication of the honey-glazed pork, Oh Mai's banh mi game is unmatched. Multiple locations, ohmaisandwichkitchen.com
2. Little Saigon
3. All Chay

• Derek Carlisle
• Moochies’ transcendentmeatball sandwich

Best Meatball Sandwich
Moochie's Meatballs & More
The Moochie's cheesesteak has already been recognized on this list, so it's not a huge surprise that Moochie's meatball sandwich would follow suit. The homemade meatballs, the gooey marinara and the melty cheese hit just right on this classic sandwich. Sure, it's hard to mess up a meatball sandwich, but that makes it all the more difficult to excel at one like Moochie's does. Multiple locations, moochiesmeatballs.com
2. Caputo's Market & Deli
3. Grove Market And Deli

Best BLT
Central 9th Market
While the BLT is technically an off-menu item (last we checked), the artful sandwich makers at Central 9th Market are nonetheless prepared to make you one when you ask for it—with a just-right cluster of crisp bacon and fresher-than-fresh veggies held between two thick cuts of wood-fired focaccia. This three-ingredient lunch classic has never looked, tasted or crispy-crunched better. 161 W. 900 South, SLC, 385-332-3240, central9th.com
2. Hopkins Brewing Co.
3. Lucky 13

Best Cuban Sandwich
Beltex Meats
People adore Beltex Meats' Cuban sandwiches made with their in-house smoked ham, roast mojo pork loin, house-brined pickles, mustard, Swiss cheese, fennel marmalade and freshly baked bread. They're so irresistible that if you don't arrive early (Saturday special only), they're gone within the first hour of opening. We love having this quality butcher shop in our city—though, as you can see, it's more than just a butcher shop! 511 E. 900 South, SLC, 801-532-2641, beltexmeats.com
2. Whiskey Street Cocktails & Dining
3. Red Rock Brewing Co.

Best French Dip Sandwich
Desert Edge Brewery
For starters, the French Dip sandwich originated in Los Angeles, not France, but was so named, it's thought, because of its French roll. Desert Edge leans more toward spice with its Mexican Hot Roast Beef Dip. They take a sourdough baguette, pile it high with slow-roasted beef, pepper jack cheese, roasted chiles and chipotle mayo and serve it up with spicy au jus. But if it's French you're after, pair it with a cup of Desert Edge's famous French onion soup. 551 S. 600 East, SLC, 801-521-8917, desertedgebrewery.com
2. Piper Down Pub
3. Chop Shop Park City

Best Fried-Chicken Sandwich
Pretty Bird
Back during the social media kerfuffle that revolved around fried chicken sandwiches, those of us who had been to Pretty Bird just sat back and chuckled. As much as the big fast food chains wanted to duke it out, we all know that Pretty Bird is the only place in Utah to go if you wanted a really, really good fried chicken sandwich—and it still is. Multiple locations, prettybirdchicken.com
2. Cluck Truck
3. Mr. Charlie's Chicken Fingers

• Courtesy photo
• Have what she’s having: Feldman’s pastrami Reuben

Best Reuben Sandwich
Feldman's Deli
Some people would have you believe that Jewish rye bread, corned beef, swiss cheese, sauerkraut and Russian dressing make a Reuben, but those people are misled. A true Reuben requires you to eat some of the corned beef with your fingers before you can pick the sandwich up. A true Reuben gets all over your hands, face and shirt. Feldman's Reuben is the Best of Utah because they know how to make a true Reuben. 2005 E. 2700 South, Millcreek, 801-906-0369, feldmansdeli.com
2. Siegfried's Delicatessen
3. Level Crossing Brewing Co.

Best Inexpensive Lunch
Buds
If you want a big-ass sandwich that will fill you up on the cheap, look no farther than this SLC vegan classic. Not only will Buds save you money, their plant-based options come in every craveable taste—classic deli, Italian cold cut, buffalo, pesto, cheesesteak, BBQ and even pizzasteak. All the sandies come in under $8, leaving more than enough room for a lavender lemonade, horchata cold brew or a dollar-fifty cookie to have as a treat. 509 E. 300 South, SLC, budsslc.com
2. Tacos Don Rafa
3. Santo Taco

Best Seafood Sandwich
Freshies Lobster Salt Lake City
A delicious seafood sandwich is a harmonious blend of fresh, flavorful ingredients that transport you straight to the seaside, which is quite a feat in Utah. It begins with the star of the show: the seafood, which can vary from succulent lobster or crab, seasoned and then cooked to perfection, ensuring it retains its natural, oceanic flavors. Multiple locations, freshieslobsterco.com
2. Slapfish
3. Chop Shop Park City

Best Deli Sandwich
Caputo's Market & Deli
Whether it's the signature Old School sandwich or the traditional muffaletta, any sandwich at Caputo's tells a story. Thinly sliced deli meats, freshly-baked bread and a little bit of amore are what make Caputo's deli offerings so irresistible. You can get any sandwich (plus any of their signature deli meats) to-go, for a taste of Caputo's at home. Multiple locations, caputos.com
2. Feldman's Deli
3. Grove Market And Deli

Best Fish Platter
Current Fish & Oyster
Current Fish & Oyster's seafood platter keeps us coming back for more! Succulent seafood offerings—including oysters, shrimp, Dungeness crab and Maine lobster tail—are all expertly prepared and plated to perfection. Current's menu is designed around fresh seafood available from regional America with an eye always toward sustainability. So sit back and enjoy their expertise in tasting what's fresh, well-prepared, good for you and good for the planet. 279 E. 300 South, SLC, 801-326-3474, currentfishandoyster.com
2. Market Street Grill & Oyster Bar
3. The Bayou

• Taste Utah
• Fish and chips at Little Taste of Britain

Best Fish & Chips
Little Taste of Britain
Little Taste of Britain offers what its name implies-- assorted British faves, led by fish and chips. They're real planks of white cod done perfectly with a great batter. The fish is always white and fresh. It falls apart as you enjoy every bite. There's also shrimp, shepherd's pie, mushy peas (a British delicacy), simple salads and other delights. They have lots of British products for sale, including sweets and canned goods. Cheerio! 768 W. 1425 North, Layton, 801-543-5707, littletasteofbritain.net
2. On the Hook Fish and Chips
3. Summerhays Halibut and Chips

Best Oysters
Current Fish & Oyster
Oyster lovers, rejoice! With "oyster" in their name, the shellfish at Current have to be fresh and well prepared to bring the taste of the ocean (and a hint of brininess) to landlocked Utah. Current Fish & Oyster offers two delicious options to choose from: chef's choice oysters on the half shell or Kumamoto oysters on the half shell. Both are served with mignonette sauces and lemon to complement the oysters and satisfy your cravings. 279 E. 300 South, SLC, 801-326-3474, currentfishandoyster.com
2. Market Street Grill & Oyster Bar
3. Kimi's Chop & Oyster House

Best Poke
Hanaya Poke SLC
When it comes to crafting your own poke masterpiece in SLC, Hanaya Poke is the undisputed maestro of the "build your own" symphony. When you crave sushi (but not sushi prices), a poke bowl is a great go-to! Offering the freshest fish selections and a rainbow of vibrant toppings, it's a poke paradise letting you make your own beautiful music. Sometimes we crave that sweet, sweet gochujang sauce! 675 E. 2100 South, Ste. B, SLC, 385-528-0592, hanayapokeslc.com
2. LemonShark Poké
3. FreshFin Salt Lake City

Best Seafood Cocktail
Market Street Grill & Oyster Bar
For more than 40 years, patrons of Market Street Grill & Oyster Bar have ordered countless bowls of clam chowder and platters of oysters. It's no surprise that Market Street also serves an impressive gulf shrimp cocktail with a housemade cocktail sauce. Tuck into a shrimp cocktail, pair it with a gin martini, and you'll conclude life is good. Multiple locations, marketstreetgrill.com
2. Tres Hombres Mexican Grill & Cantina
3. Maria's Méxican Grill

Best Clam Chowder
Market Street Grill & Oyster Bar
On Oct. 30, 1980, the first Market Street Grill opened inside the historic New York Hotel building in downtown Salt Lake. The chef back then, the late Tom Guinney, brought his recipes from California where he'd worked at seafood restaurants and been a corporate chef. His recipe for his "undeniably best clam chowder in the United States" is made with clams, onions, celery and fresh leeks. Guinney's chowder was served the first night and remains a mainstay today. Multiple locations, marketstreetgrill.com
2.Current Fish & Oyster
3.The Green Pig Pub

• Derek Carlisle

Best Chili
Whiskey Street Cocktails & Dining
If you associate chili with tailgating at a football game or as a dish to be enjoyed in the mountains around the campfire, Whiskey Street will change your mind. Their bourbon black bean buffalo chili topped with shredded fontina cheese and cilantro crème fraiche is the most elevated rendition of this comfort classic we've ever tasted. Wash it down with one of over 500 (five hundred!) whiskeys. 323 S. Main, SLC, 801-433-1371, whiskeystreet.com
2. The Soup Kitchen
3. Squatters Pub Brewery

Best French Onion Soup
Desert Edge Brewery
Desert Edge may be pros at brewing beer, but some patrons go there expressly to sip something warm and golden. A symphony of caramelized onions simmered in savory beef broth and crowned with a thick layer of melted Swiss cheese, Desert Edge's French onion soup is the epitome of craveable comfort food. Also available at Desert Edge's sister restaurant, Stella Grill, this is not just soup; it's a warm hug for your taste buds. 273 Trolley Square, SLC, 801-521-8917, desertedgebrewery.com
2. Gracie's
3. Stella Grill

Best Soup
Soup Kitchen's Cream of Tomato
Soup Kitchen is a nostalgic, welcoming place—the décor in Sugar House especially might remind you of your school cafeteria back in the day. Their clam chowder, chicken noodle, cheese broccoli or good old-fashioned split-pea are all house-made and delicious, especially on chilly wet days. Soup Kitchen's tomato soup is a must; it has a particularly robust, delightful flavor and is best for dunking their housemade breadsticks into. Locations in Sugar House, South Salt Lake and on Redwood Road, slcsoup.com
2. Feldman's Deli's Matzo Ball Soup
3. Oasis Café Tomato Fennel

What Did We Miss?

Best Croissant Menu
Forty Three Bakery
With new digs of his own now, international award-winning pastry chef Andrew Corrao is serving his buttery croissants in a variety of ways. The classic all-butter croissant is always delicious, but that vanilla bean-glazed pull apart hits differently. Try it for yourself and report back. 733 W. Genesee Ave., SLC, 435-962-1628, fortythreebakery.com

Best Vegan BBQ
Blatch's Backyard BBQ
A backyard miracle in the Avenues, Blatch's offers vegan barbecue done right—not only with mains like slow smoked jackfruit, tempeh burnt ends, smoked seitan brisket and Korean barbecue strips, but with their variety of sides. No order is complete without mixing and matching smoked poblano potato salad, wood-fired rolls, Cuban-inspired black beans and, of course, slaw. Make this your next takeout order, but, keep in mind, they're open only two days a week for pre-reserved orders and pick-up. 186 I St., SLC, 385-210-5029, blatchsbackyardbbq.com

Best Avocado Toast
Beaumont Bakery & Café
The elote-inspired avocado toast at Beaumont satisfies the Southwestern toast twist you didn't know you needed. Perfectly ripened avocado, smoky roasted corn, crumbled Cotija cheese and just-spicy-enough fresno chilis pile atop hearty Super Seed bread for a breakfast that easily masquerades as lunch or #girldinner (add eggs, turkey or salmon if you please), available daily open to close. Bonus points if you pair it with a lemon filled cruffin. 3979 Wasatch Blvd., Millcreek, 801-676-9340, beaumont.cafe

Best Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs
Nana's Sonoran Hot Dogs
As Nana's officially brought bacon-wrapped hot dogs to the Wasatch Front, it's only fair that they nab the Best of Utah accolades for this wonderment of porcine goodness. While wrapping a hot dog in bacon seems like an easy way to turn up the volume on those taste buds, the Nana's team goes above and beyond. They offer the genuine article when it comes to the Sonoran hot dog, and it's always a good time. 7659 S. Redwood Road, West Jordan, 623-210-7320, @nanas_hotdogs

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• Delice Bakery’s case of tempting treats

Best Gluten-Free Velvety Goodness
Delice Bakery & Café Crème Brulee
Chef Jean-Jacques Grossi started baking at a young age in France. After moving to Salt Lake City in 1977 and working for other bakers, Chef Grossi and Akbar Matinkhah opened Délice French Bakery and Café in 2018. A dessert of theirs sure to please is their rich, creamy custardy crème brulee with that slight burnt-sugar crunch of the caramel topping. Stop by and pick one up today. 2747 S. State, SLC, 801- 953-1910, delicebakeryslc.com

Best 'Let's Share' Paella
Mar | Muntanya
Chef Tyson Peterson is a Utah native who is able to channel Spanish cuisine like it's his job. OK, it is his job, but Peterson has a knack for creating fusion dishes that actually work really well. His paella has everything you would want in this sharable dish (no tapa-size plate here), with some extra proteins to spare. 170 S. West Temple, SLC, 385-433-6700, mar-muntanya.com

Best Not-Necessarily-Mexican Tacos
Roctaco
There's nothing wrong with a traditional taco filled with traditional ingredients, but when you want to deviate from tradition, Roctaco's freestyle tacos have you covered. They specialize in borrowing liberally from the cuisine of Korea, Vietnam, India and Mexico for their tacos, and each one is a tasty adventure in itself. 248 S. Edison St., SLC, 801-905-8016; 471 E. St. George Blvd., St. George, 435-652-5999; roctaco.com

Best New York Style Pizza
Villaggio Pizzeria
Villaggio's New York-style pizza is a big city yum adventure that reminds us of the bustling streets of NYC with every bite. To add to the authenticity, they even import some of their ingredients from the Big Apple! But it's not only about pizza; their menu is a culinary gold mine. You can stick to the classics or step it up with a balsamic glaze—either way, your taste buds will thank us! 3144 S. State, Ste. 1, South Salt Lake, 801-410-4355, villaggio-slc.com

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• Meat Hook: barbecue and more!

Best Party BBQ
Meat Hook BBQ
We go to Meat Hook BBQ for delicious brisket, ribs and pulled pork, but we stay for the party—the home party, that is, especially one you don't have time to prepare for. When you expect lots of guests (think: Super Bowl), better hook up at Meat Hook for selections beyond BBQ joint staples. Tacos, burgers, sandwiches, appetizers and salads can round things out. Party of one? Keep the Barbecuterie platter near your TV remote and eat for two days. 3380 S. Redwood Road, SLC, 801-938-3773, meathookbbqco.com

Best Drunken Noodles
Nuan's Thai Kitchen
Many Thai food lovers rejoiced at finding Nuan's Thai Kitchen reopening in new digs, albeit at another Cottonwood Heights strip mall. Once again, we can indulge in Nuan's delectable spring rolls, chicken satay, green curry and pad thai that we know and love. It's just steps away from an excellent state liquor and wine store. Ergo, you can buy your booze and then feast on their truly delightful drunken noodles when you get home. 1871 Fort Union Blvd., Cottonwood Heights, 801-432-8356, nuansthaikitchen.com

Best Vegan Sushi Rolls
Keyaki Sushi
Not only does Keyaki Sushi create innovative Latin and Japanese fusion rolls, but they also serve amazing vegan sushi. Most restaurants stop at two or three (somewhat boring) vegan rolls. But Keyaki offers 10 big, beautiful, loudly decorated rolls giving vegans the delight usually reserved for fish-eaters. Rolls include tropical fruits, toasted coconut, tofu several ways, crunchy zucchini and in the case of the Imperial Roll, enoki mushroom nestled inside a roll topped with elegant fried lotus. 167 W. 4500 S. Frontage Road, Murray, 385-787-4409

Best Sushi on a Bullet Train
Sushi Pro & Timi Boba Milk Tea
Sushi Pro is the only restaurant in Utah that boasts "conveyor belt" sushi (the Japanese call it kaitenzushi). Small covered plates of freshly made sushi and sashimi travel around on a conveyor belt next to the tables, and diners are free to grab what looks good to them. At the end, the plates are added up to determine the bill. You can also order dishes or boba tea drinks off the menu, and they are delivered to your table by the most adorable toy bullet train imaginable. 4337 Harrison Blvd., Ogden, 385-432-0834, sushiproutah.com

Best Noodles in the Making
Oishi Ramen
The flavor combinations at Oishi Raman are spectacular. That they offer oxtail, tongue and even intestine skewers indicates that this State Street eatery is willing to push—and please—local palates. Notably, upon entering Oishi Ramen, you might notice their cooks making, stretching, pulling and turning homemade noodles. Those noodles become the base for their Chinese-style ramens, but can be added to a Japanese ramen dish as well. You'll forgo all packaged noodles ever after. 3424 S. State, Ste. A, SLC, 801-410-4310, oishiramenslc.com

Best Belly-Warming Modern Asian
Saola Restaurant & Lounge
Apres ski dining options tend to be of the bougie variety--butternut squash bisque, oysters, etc. But post-ski noshing should warm you up from the inside out, and that's what you get at Saola. Their sophisticated take on popular Asian favorites like egg rolls, Peking duck and pho with filet mignon brings cozy comfort food to a new level. 7307 Canyon Centre Parkway, Ste. 1, Cottonwood Heights, 801-944-2949, saolaeats.com

Best Pop-Up Bagel Getting a Home
Baby's Bagels
SLC's newest (and perhaps chewiest) bagel can be found all around town at different locales. Find their completely coated bagels in every flavor at Liberty Heights Fresh, The Neighborhood Hive and as breakfast sandos at Old Cuss Café. Or just buy directly from them Thursdays through Saturdays at their new full-service bagel shop that opened Nov. 11. 204 E. 500 South, SLC, 801-613-0066, instagram.com/babys.bagels

Best Park City Breakfast
Five5eeds
Fresh, wholesome, crunchy and inventive. We have so many reasons to love the breakfast/brunch menu of this Aussie eatery, such as their huge pancakes slathered in mixed berries, Moroccan baked eggs, smashed avocado and peas on toast, and delicious housed-baked goods. There's a wow factor here that outdoor adventurers and locals cannot ignore. Fill'er up here and hit the slopes. 1600 Snow Creek Drive, Ste. EF, Park City, 435-901-8242, five5eeds.com

Best Weekend Spice
Curry Connect
Sandy's Curry Connect prides itself on fresh South Indian fare (but you can order Northern dishes as well). On weekends, Curry Connect is generally packed, and perhaps their weekend specials have something to do with it. Dishes like Thalappakatti goat biryani, Veg Manchurian and Kerala fish curry highlight the list. Broaden your palate and soak up the positive energy of the friendly owners and customers. 863 E. 9400 South, Sandy, 385-274-4177, curryconnect.com

Best 'Normal-Size' This
Apollo Burger
For decades, the Supersize Me model of giant portions at takeout eateries has been all the rage. But there's growing evidence consumers want to get back to normal (in pant size and budget). At Apollo Burger, you can still order their craveable burgers and sandwiches, but maybe slow your belly roll with any of their eight junior-size items. Pair that Junior Apollo Burger with any seven fresh salads for takeout—Greek, Cobb and Chef's included! Multiple locations, apolloburger.com

Best Quietly Cheap, Quality Burrito
Yoko Taco's $5 Bean Burrito
You may have noticed that even fast food ain't cheap these days—but you can still get a cheap ... er ... affordable burrito and with locally sourced, high-quality fixin's at Yoko Taco. Their $5 bean and rice burrito is simple satisfaction rounded out by fried cheese and their house sauces. It won't break the bank at lunch time. 285 W. 800 South, SLC, 385-218-4325, yokotacoslc.com

Best Oh My Stars & Chars in Cedar City
Centro Woodfired Pizzeria
If, after attending a fabulous theater production at the Utah Shakespeare Festival, you get a craving for scratch-made pizza ingredients and toppings, lovingly handled pizza dough and wood fired oven char, then make that reservation at Centro for their "artisan made" fare (hint: The fennel sausage pizza does not disappoint). It's also the place for proper "stagedooring," and glimpsing your favorite performers because—you know—actors gotta eat, too. 50 W. Center St., Cedar City, 435-867-8123, centropizzeria.com

Best Apple Strudel
Weller's Bistro
If German hospitality and comfort food are what you crave, here you'll find authentic entrees like schnitzel, stuffed cabbage rolls, beef rouladen and goulash with sauerkraut and spätzle. After your meal, full you may be, but find room for the German apple strudel (apfelstrudel). This heavenly dessert consists of layers of baked cinnamon-seasoned apples, raisins and berry sauce in a strudel pastry that sits on a dish of vanilla sauce and is topped with powdered sugar and chocolate drizzle. Layton, here we come. 197 N. Main St., Layton, 385-888-9531, wellersbistro.comBest Asian-Inspired Omelets

Uncle Jeffi's Place
Uncle Jeffi's Place is Anny Sooksri and Jeff Kelsch's latest restaurant venture. (The pair also founded Tea Rose Diner, Tea Rose Thai Express, Chabaar Beyond Thai and FAV Bistro—located next door to Uncle Jeffi's.) While Uncle Jeffi's serves all the classic breakfast and lunch options, it's their Thai breakfasts—such as Thai fried egg, Kai Jeaw Moo Sup and the Thai omelet—that beckon those wanting to free themselves from eggs over easy. These dishes are lighter than trad American diner fare—and healthier—but still so tasty. They open at 7 a.m. 1968 E. Murray Holladay Road, Holladay, bestthaifoodinutah.com/uncle-jeffis

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