Ted Scheffler
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Longtime food, wine & travel writer. Love baseball, skiing, guitars, cooking, auto racing, Provence, Paris, Rio, NYC, Faith & Hank.
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Articles by Ted Scheffler
What’s New in Utah Dining: Montblu in Midway, Pinkbox Sandy & Surf and Turf
Every Friday and Saturday night, Lucky H Buffet at Little America turns up the ante with their Crab, Seafood, and Prime Rib Buffet for just $69 per adult. Dig into fresh crab legs, oysters, and smoked salmon alongside carved prime rib, brisket, and roast turkey, plus a salad station, Spanish paella, and a spread of homemade desserts. It’s a weekend feast worth the appetite.
Utah Restaurant News: Log Haven, Alpine Distilling & Stein Collection
Having stepped into their new roles at Log Haven restaurant as Head Chef and Sous Chef, Todd Hoffee and Dayton Case have been tweaking the Log Haven dinner menu.
Brownstone 22: A New Restaurant in Historic Downtown SLC
A Visit to Brownstone 22 Before I launch into a review of a lovely restaurant called Brownstone 22, please allow me to reminisce a bit, as the location of Brownstone 22 has quite a history. The building in which Brownstone 22 restaurant is located is a beautiful – yes, brownstone – building at 22 East 100 South in downtown Salt Lake City that was built back in 1888 and was home to the historic Utah Commercial and Savings Bank.
Pretty Bird Heads to L.A., North Italia Cocktails & Kids Eat Free at Brass Tag
The mixologists at North Italia in Riverton have launched a special “nostalgia-inspired” cocktail menu, running through September 7th. North Italia is adding a bit of nostalgia to their beverage menu this year with its debut of “Forever Young,” featuring limited-edition drinks that transform nostalgic summer memories into playful, modern cocktails.
La Casa Del Tamal Expands to Downtown Salt Lake City
On a stretch of 5600 West in West Valley City filled with shiny new (mostly) franchise restaurants and shopping centers, there is a marvelous family owned Mexican eatery that in recent years shot close to the top of my favorite local Mexican restaurants list. It is called La Casa Del Tamal and this, my friends, is the real deal. And now, I am happy to report that there is even more La Casa del Tamal to love with the recent opening of a second location – downtown in the Post District on 600 South.
Salt Lake City Dining News: New Menus, Restaurant Moves and Opening
Located in Le Meridien & Element Salt Lake City, Adelaide restaurant and Van Ryder rooftop bar have launched new menus, under the direction of new Executive Chef Daniel Horn. Adelaide has unveiled an elevated breakfast, weekend brunch, and all-day menu.
Table 25 Restaurant Review: From Promising Newcomer to an Ogden Favorite
When I first wrote about Ogden’s Table 25 restaurant, it had just opened. That was in the fall of 2021. I was intrigued by the then-new eatery since the married couple who opened the restaurant – Jaimie and Justin Buehler – had most recently worked for a number of years at the Copper Onion in Salt Lake City. I’ve been a big fan of Ryan Lowder’s Copper Onion since it opened in 2010 and Lowder’s well-mentored employees have gone on to open a number of great eateries and bars of their own.
Utah Restaurant News: Trolley Coffee Opens, Fleming's New Menu & Royal Street Cocktail
The Park City Area Restaurant Association (PCARA) Mountain Mixer Park City cocktail contest is officially underway, and Deer Valley Resort’s contender hails from mid-mountain’s Royal Street Café. Mixologist Alex Gonzales brings Barbie’s Bad Decision to the cocktail menu this month, a bright, juicy sipper with unexpected depth and spontaneity. The cocktail combines Volcan Blanco tequila, Yellow Chartreuse, raspberry coulis, and lime juice.
Salt Lake Food Events: Eat Drink SLC, St. Regis Farm Dinners & $55 Omakase
According to its founders, “Eat Drink SLC raises awareness about Salt Lake’s finest culinary and cultural opportunities. Our vision is to engage patrons with the marriage of food and drink, and share stories about how it evolves, adapts, and innovates. Filled with tastes, art, people, and joy, Eat Drink is a welcoming, inclusive event for all the senses.” Eat Drink SLC returns to its home at Tracy Aviary on September 16th and 17th, 2026.
Davis Dining Deals: Budget-Friendly Eats in Davis County
Utah’s Davis County – with its overabundance of chain restaurants – isn’t known for culinary hotspots. However, if you take the time to scout out Davis County’s independent eateries, you’ll find a good number of ones that are family-friendly as well as budget-friendly. Here are a few of my favorites. Vito Leone You won’t find a better cheesesteak in Utah than at Vito’s in Bountiful. This is an unusual operation – and a truly independent one.
Utah Restaurant News: Laziz Opens in Sugar House, Provisions Closes
Last week,Deer Valley Resortannounced Chef Sam Phelan as their new Executive Chef, who will oversee the Resort’s acclaimed culinary offerings. “On behalf of Deer Valley’s entire culinary team, I want to congratulate Chef Phelan for his well-deserved promotion to Executive Chef of Deer Valley Resort,” said Deer Valley Resort Vice President of Food and Beverage Jacob Musyt.
Indian Food Fair Returns to Liberty Park in Salt Lake City on August 15, 2026
Lovers of authentic Indian cuisine – and I’m one of them – will want to mark your calendars for Saturday, August 15, 2026. That’s when the 7th Annual Indian Food Fair will take place at Liberty Park from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Photo courtesy of Lai Yuching on Unsplash. According to the organizers, “Indian Food Fair Food and Market Vendors bring this celebration to life, filling the air with the aroma of sizzling spices, fresh herbs, sweet treats, and handcrafted treasures.
'Mina Ristorante Siciliano Review: One of Salt Lake City's Best Italian Restaurants
If I was forced to only indulge in one type of cuisine going forward, I think it would be Italian. I could live on pizza and pasta alone, never mind all the other great flavors that Italian cooking has to offer. And so, I was thrilled a few months ago when owner/partner Adam Rosh reached out to me about his new restaurant. It’s called ‘Mina Ristorante Sicilliano, located in the space on 900 South that was home previously to Matteo, before they relocated to downtown SLC.
Utah Dining News: Tupelo Summer Menu, Market Street Grill Closing & Forum Fest
Tupelo Park City’s dog-friendly patio is now open for the summer with good vibes and great views.
What's New in Park City: Pride Celebrations, Summer Markets, and a Culinary Power Move
Hill Top Hospitality businesses – Hearth and Hill, Hill’s Kitchen and Urban Hill – are celebrating Pride Month at their Park City and Salt Lake City locations with Pride-themed specials throughout June. $1 from every Pride item sold will benefit Equality Utah. At Hill’s Kitchen, Look for the Chai Curious featured drink alongside Pride-themed Dot Cakes and Pride Krispies. It’s the best time to try the viral dot cake with $1 of each benefiting Equality Utah.
Father’s Day Dining Guide: Steaks, Brunches and Whiskey Across Utah
When you remember all of the things your dear old dad did for you and keeps doing for you, don’t you think you at least owe him a nice meal on Father’s Day? If so, here are some great places to do just that. The distillers at Park City’s Alpine Distilling invite guests 21 and over to visit the Alpine Social Club to create a custom Father’s Day gift bag with locally made gin, whiskey, gift cards, tumblers, candles, and bourbon maple pecans.
From Pioneer Park to Park City: Summer Food, Drinks and Fun Across Utah
The Downtown Farmers Market returned to Pioneer Park on Saturday, June 6th and runs every Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm through October 24th. Folks at The Downtown Alliance said, “The Market arrives at the peak of early summer harvest, and shoppers will find every reason to rejoice on opening day: spring greens, radishes, snap peas, herbs, and the first of the season’s sweet corn will fill vendor stalls from week one. No grocery store can compete with the just-picked freshness of our farmers.
Utah Farmers Markets Open for Summer as Deer Valley's Fire & Flavor Festival Returns
The Fire & Flavor Festival returns to Deer Valley Resort for its second year, bringing together renowned chefs and open-fire cooking. The Fire & Flavor Festival runs across five summer weekends as chefs bring live-fire techniques and signature dishes to life, all set against the stunning mountain backdrop that Deer Valley Resort offers. Food and beverage are available à la carte throughout the festival.
Pizza al Taglio Arrives in Salt Lake City at Via Veneto Pizzarium
When I heard that Marco and Amy Stevanoni – owners of Veneto Ristorante Italiano – were opening a pizza restaurant, I was excited. That’s because for my money, Veneto may just be the best Italian restaurant in our state. But what really filled me with anticipation was that their new pizzeria – Via Veneto Pizzarium – would specialize in pizza al taglio. What is pizza al taglio?
New Sunday Brunches to Try in Salt Lake City This Summer
For the first time in its venerable history, Log Haven restaurant will begin serving Sunday brunch, starting on June 7th. The folks at Log Haven invite guests to “Join us in the canyon for a beautifully curated brunch experience featuring plated favorites like Brioche French Toast, Canyon Biscuits & Gravy, Huevos Rancheros, and our house Honey-Almond Granola — all created by Chef Todd Hoffee and Sous Chef Dayton Case.
Park City’s Biggest Outdoor Dinner Party Returns: Savor The Summit 2026
Savor The Summit is Park City’s annual outdoor dinner party on Historic Main Street, where participating restaurants set up tables along the street for an evening of gourmet food, craft cocktails, and live music. The event transforms Main Street into a vibrant al fresco dining experience, with reservations required directly through each individual restaurant. It’s an unforgettably delicious way to kick off summer in Park City.
The New Inn at Sundance and Tree Room Honor Robert Redford’s Legacy
In 1969, actor/filmmaker Robert Redford acquired the land that would become Sundance Resort, so-named for his “buddy” film with Paul Newman, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. His vision for Sundance was to create a place that offered activities such as skiing, hiking and biking, but also preserved the natural beauty of the area. Redford developed the resort with a strong emphasis on environmental conservation.
Utah Food News: Log Haven’s New Chef, Park City Dine About, and Deer Valley Classes
With the recent change in ownership of Log Haven restaurant, changes are coming in the kitchen, as well. Chef Dave Jones Here is what the owners of Log Haven had to say about a new chapter for the restaurant’s culinary team. “For over 30 years, the heart of Log Haven has been shaped by the passion, creativity, and mentorship of our Chef Dave Jones.
Best Mother’s Day Brunches and Dinners in Utah for 2026
‘M’ is for the many meals you made me. So, isn’t it about time to treat Mom to her own special meal? Luckily, there is no shortage of places to celebrate moms with Mother’s Day meals at local restaurants. There is an abundance of Mother’s Day brunches, buffets, dinners and luncheons to choose from. Here are some great options.
Momomaru Sushi Review: Salt Lake City’s New Destination for Japanese Hand Rolls
When visiting Denver, my wife and I love dining at a restaurant called Temaki-Den, which specializes in Japanese-style hand-rolled sushi. And so I was thrilled when our friends Andrew and Tammy told us that SLC now has a sushi restaurant that serves hand rolls. It’s called Momomaru.
Utah Events in May 2026: Living Traditions Festival, IRC Fundraiser and Limited-Edition Doughnuts
The International Rescue Committee has announced that tickets are now available for the IRC in Utah’s upcoming fundraising dinner on May 21: Rebuilding Lives Elevating Futures. The IRC and Spice Kitchen Incubator organizers say, “This will be a truly special & fun event! We’ll gather to enjoy a meal, experience live performances from diverse community members, and engage as a community.
Salt Lake Food News: Gossip Kitchen Opens Downtown, Hand Roll Pop-Up, Cinco de Mayo Specials in Park City
Gossip Kitchen – a collaboration between Chef Soy (Batsaikhan Ariunbold of Mint Tapas & Sushi) and Carmine Delli Bovi (Carmine’s Italian Cuisine) – held a soft opening last Friday in advance of opening to the public. It is located in SLC at 152 East 200 South. The new eatery features Asian and Italian fare. However, this is not a fusion enterprise a la Junah. Rather, there are distinctly Italian menu items and distinctly Asian ones.
STK Steakhouse Salt Lake City Happy Hour Review: Affordable Dining at a High-End Steakhouse
Happy Hour Pricing for the Budget Conscious Ever since STK Steakhouse SLC opened the day after Christmas in 2023, I’ve been intrigued and have wanted to go there. The prices, however, kept me away. I’m talking $108.00 for a ribeye steak without sides, $39 for their shrimp cocktail, and $24 for parmesan truffle fries, to name but a handful of the pricey dishes at STK. Needless to say, it’s pricing far beyond this food writer’s budget. That’s the bad news.
Epic Brewing Opens New Bar in Salt Lake City + Dining Specials & Derby Day Events
This Friday, April 17, 2025, Epic Brewing Company is unveiling their new bar to the 21 and over public, located at 825 S. State Street in SLC. You may recall that Epic formerly had SLC’s smallest bar, with something like six bar stools. Well, that bar still exists in the front part of Epic adjacent to its beer store. But there is a new, sprawling bar in the rear of the building with an outdoor patio and seating for mobs of beer lovers.
Two Utah Chefs Reach 2026 James Beard Finals, Plus Spring Dining Updates
A milestone moment in the restaurant awards season, the James Beard finalists have been announced for 2026. Two talented Utah chefs made the cut. In the Best Chef: Mountain category (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Utah’s finalists are Travis Herbert of Felt Bar & Eatery and Nick Zocco of Urban Hill.
Sushi by Boū Review: Speakeasy Omakase Experience Opens in Salt Lake City
For sushi lovers, there is a new omakase restaurant in town and it’s unique and inviting. It’s called Sushi by Boū, but more about that later. First, for anyone who might not be familiar with omakase-style dining, here’s a brief tutorial. Omakase is a Japanese dining style where the chef takes full control of the meal, and the guest leaves the selection of dishes up to the chef.
Free Pet Food in Salt Lake City: Street Dawg Crew Helps Pets of the Homeless
I normally write about food for humans. However, this week I want to give a shout out to the Street Dawg Crew of Utah, helping folks in hard times to feed their dogs and cats. The Crew says, “Our pet food outreach in Salt Lake City takes place every 2 weeks on Sunday from 12-1 pm. The next outreach will be on Sunday, April 12th. No qualifications. Just show up for free dog and cat food.
Penny Ann’s Cafe Opens Sandy Location, Mazza Updates Menu, and U of U Food Classes
It’s hard for me to believe that it was way back in 2011 when I first wrote about Penny Ann’s Cafe, which had just opened. Today, there are five locations of the family friendly restaurant with the “Heavenly Hotcakes,” including the most recent addition in Sandy, at 7405 South Union Park Avenue.
Where to Eat Easter Brunch in Salt Lake City and Park City 2026
Regardless of your religion – or lack thereof – Easter Sunday is always a great excuse to get together to break bread with friends and family. From Easter Brunches to an Easter Bunny Tea Party, here are some good options for Easter Dining in our area. The team at The Capital Grill say about their Easter Brunch, “We will be serving two courses of chef-created selections along with classic brunch cocktails and Champagne.
Salt Lake Food News: Via Veneto Pizzarium Debuts, Arepa Fest, and New Pizza Releases
Great news for pizza lovers! Marco and Amy Stevanoni – owners of Veneto Ristorante Italiano – have opened a new pizza restaurant located at 511 East 900 S in Salt Lake City called Via Veneto Pizzarium. From the business: Via Veneto Pizzarium is a quick-service restaurant offering Pizza al Taglio, a traditional Italian, semi-thick, light, and crispy crust pizza. The name, al Taglio, translates to “by the cut,” refers to the way the pizza is sold, in slices by weight, served in generous portions.
Mazza Cafe at 26: How Ali Sabbah Kept a Salt Lake City Restaurant Alive
Given that 17% to 20% of restaurants close within their first year, nearly 30% close within three years, and about 50% shut down within five years, it’s nothing short of remarkable that Ali Sabbah’s Mazza Cafe celebrated its 26th anniversary on March 6th. It certainly hasn’t been easy sledding. Long before Ali Sabbah was a two-time James Beard Award finalist for Best Chef – back in the winter of 2000 – I wrote a review of Mazza.
Utah Dining News: St. Regis Culinary Takeover, Fleming’s Wine Dinner, and Left Fork Grill Closing
The Culinary Takeover dining series returns to the St. Regis Deer Valley March 18-21, 2026. The folks at the St. Regis said, “The St. Regis Deer Valley, one of the most luxurious mountain Resorts in the world, announced Culinary Takeover 2026, a gastronomic adventure with food, wine, libations and entertainment the ingredients for five dynamic dining events March 18-21, 2026.
Repeal Bar & Restaurant Review: Jazz, Cocktails, and Small Plates in Salt Lake City
When Repeal bar and restaurant opened last spring in the downtown space that was previously home to Bourbon House, Kelly Howard, Co-Owner of Repeal and of Prohibition in Fashion Place said, “Our dream is to bring a distinctive flavor and a dining experience like no other to Salt Lake City.
Salt Lake City Dining News: Mazza Marks 26 Years with New Menu Additions
On March 6, 2026, Mazza marks its 26th year in Salt Lake City. For more than a quarter of a century, owner Ali Sabbah has shaped the restaurant around a philosophy that blends tradition with personal interpretation. “Like family cooking, every kitchen interprets traditional dishes in its own way,” Sabbah says. “At Mazza, we focus on ingredient quality and technique to create food that is distinctive while staying true to the spirit of Lebanese cuisine.” That philosophy begins with the ingredients.
Eva Reopens in Downtown Salt Lake City After Main Street Fire; Bucklin Wine Dinner and Pendry Après Ski Events Announced
I’m thrilled to report that Eva restaurant in downtown SLC has reopened, six months after closing and rebuilding due to the massive fire that destroyed a number of Main Street businesses. Eva is the second business – after White Horse Kitchen & Spirits – to reopen following the fire. Named for his grandmother, owner/chef Charlie Perry Eva opened 17 years ago serving tapas-style cuisine in a comfy and warm setting – a true independent gem of a restaurant.
Kiitos Brewery Brings Granary Favorites to Sugar House
I really love Kiitos Brewing in the Granary District of SLC. The staff there is super friendly and knowledgeable and the beers, well, they are superb. In case you missed it, there’s more Kiitos to love since owner/CEO Andrew Dasenbrock and his crew opened a Kittos Brewing location in Sugar House near the end of 2025, following eight years of brewing in the original location.
Hearth and Hill Sugar House Restaurant Review | Salt Lake City
In early 2019, when Hearth and Hill restaurant opened in the Redstone zone of Park City’s Kimball Junction, it became an overnight sensation with both locals and visitors alike, serving up an eclectic array of culinary delights and libations with eye popping decor and design. Since that time, owner Brooks Kirchheimer and his family founded Hill Top Hospitality and opened Hill’s Kitchen & Catering, Urban Hill, and most recently, a second Hearth and Hill – this one in Sugar House.
Deer Valley Launches Corduroy Lunch Club as Park City Wine Fest and New SLC Pizza Spot Arrive
Deer Valley Resort has introduced a new way to experience first tracks without the early wake-up call. Debuting earlier this month, Corduroy Lunch Club is a new midday skiing experience that gives guests access to freshly groomed ski runs at noon. Additionally, Deer Valley is introducing a new Shepherd’s Pie, available exclusively at Deer Valley East Village Restaurant.
New Salt Lake City Food Events: Sushi by Boū, Cucina Wine Dinner & Yamato Ramen Pop-Up
If, like me, you love the Japanese style of dining called omakase, you will be excited to learn that Sushi by Boū is coming to downtown SLC. Sushi by Boū, the pioneering experiential omakase concept from hospitality group SimpleVenue, is expanding to Utah with the upcoming opening of Sushi by Boū Salt Lake City inside The Peery Salt Lake City Downtown, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. The opening marks the brand’s first location in the state and its latest milestone amid rapid national expansion.
Valentine’s Day Prix-Fixe and Special Menus at Salt Lake Restaurants
Well, it’s that time of year again – time to celebrate love, lust and luscious food and drink for Valentine’s Day. I usually choose to do that at home, but if you’re looking to venture out for a romantic restaurant meal on Valentine’s Day, here are some terrific options. At Casot, Pintxos y Vino will highlight the wine bar’s Valentine’s Sparkling Wine Tasting hosted by founder and sommelier, Scott Evans.
Log Haven Under New Ownership, Plus Slopeside Sets at Deer Valley and Utah’s 2026 James Beard Semifinalists
Big news from the owners of award-winningLog Haven Restaurant. Log Haven Restaurant, the iconic and beloved dining destination nestled in Millcreek Canyon, announces the beginning of a new chapter under new ownership, guided by a deep respect for its history, its people, and the land it calls home.
Tupelo Celebrates a Decade of Fine Dining with Southern Flair
Matt Harris and Maggie Alvarez of tupelo. Just a few days before Christmas in 2015, Matt Harris and Maggie Alvarez opened tupelo in Park City. The dynamic husband-and-wife team chose to spell tupelo with a lower-case “t,” honoring the tupelo trees of the South from which delicate tupelo honey is produced, and to distinguish it from the Mississippi hometown of the King of Rock and Roll. Harris and Alvarez met when they both worked at the then brand-new St. Regis Deer Valley.
New Restaurants and Reopenings in Utah
Known nationwide for its bold pink branding, immersive shop design, and wildly creative doughnut flavors, Las Vegas–based Pinkbox Doughnuts® had expanded with the grand opening of its first-ever Northern Utah location in American Fork at 610 W. Main St. “We are beyond excited to introduce Utah County—and the greater Salt Lake region—to Pinkbox Doughnuts and to finally bring our fun, experiential, and creative doughnuts to Northern Utah,” said Stephen Siegel, Founder of Pinkbox Doughnuts.
Hotel Thaynes Offers Affordable Dining in the Heart of Park City
Affordable eatery at New Hotel Thaynes. Drawing inspiration from the Park City’s legendary Thaynes Canyon mining district, Hotel Thaynes, Park City, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel has opened, paying homage to the mining town’s vibrant history with a complete redesign, scene-setting artwork, and character-rich design elements woven throughout the property.
Winter Dining in Utah: Tupelo Park City Cocktails, Hyatt Regency SLC Chalet Dining, and Flanker’s Zero-Proof Menu
Tupelo Park City and Chef/Owner Matthew Harris invites guests to indulge in a fresh lineup of handcrafted cocktails, spirits, and dinner selections brimming with local ingredients and Southern charm. Reservations are now open for dinner service at the globally-inspired fine dining restaurant through the winter season. “We are excited to showcase our new winter cocktail and dining menus to our loyal community and eager vacationers this winter,” said Tupelo Partner Maggie Harris.
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