Discover the best places to eat lunch in Salt Lake City Utah—from Reubens and ramen to upscale pastas. These top-rated local spots promise a midday meal worth remembering.
The best places to eat lunch in Salt Lake City Utah include everything from pasties to pappardelle
Lunch in Salt Lake City doesn’t have to be a compromise. Most of Best Places to Eat Lunch in Salt Lake City Utah are in plain sight but most people dont even know where to start. Whether you’re in a rush between meetings or planning a more leisurely mid-day bite, the city offers a surprisingly diverse range of lunch spots—many of which are beloved by locals and frequented by regulars. From historic delis and bustling brewpubs to elegant bistros and global fusion counters, Salt Lake’s lunch scene holds its own.
We’ve compiled this list of the best places to eat lunch in Salt Lake City Utah based on thousands of real diner reviews across Yelp, OpenTable, Reddit threads, and trusted local guides like Gastronomic SLC. Whether you’re craving comfort food, artisanal sandwiches, or something upscale, each pick below has something genuine to offer your next noon-hour craving.
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Feldman’s Deli
Type: Deli sandwiches
Address: 2005 E 2700 S, Sugar House
Website: feldmansdeli.com
Feldman’s Deli is one of those unassuming gems that punches way above its weight—literally. Known for massive, East Coast–style sandwiches like the classic Reuben and signature corned beef, this Sugar House staple brings serious deli credibility to Salt Lake City. Diners often comment that the portions are hefty enough to stretch across both lunch and dinner.
According to Gastronomic SLC and Yelp reviews, their ½ lb sandwiches are “authentic and unapologetically meaty,” with rye bread and homemade slaw that mirror NYC deli traditions. The casual setting makes it a perfect lunch stop when you’re craving something filling, flavorful, and fast. If you only have one shot at lunch in SLC, this is an excellent place to start.
Caputo’s Market & Deli
Type: Italian deli & marketplace
Address: Multiple locations — Downtown, 15th & 15th, Holladay
Website: caputos.com
Caputo’s isn’t just a lunch spot—it’s practically a Salt Lake institution. Family-owned since the 1920s, this Italian deli and market offers a curated taste of Old World tradition with house-made mozzarella, artisan prosciutto, and a sandwich menu that reads like a greatest-hits album of Mediterranean flavors.
Whether you’re grabbing lunch from the Downtown counter or enjoying a longer sit-down at the Holladay location, Caputo’s delivers on every level. Locals rave about the Italian cold cuts, fresh baguettes, and beautifully curated cheese selection. It’s especially popular with professionals looking for a quality meal that doesn’t feel rushed or mass-produced. Plus, it doubles as a gourmet grocer—making it easy to bring a little bit of lunch home with you.
Dough Miner
Type: Grab-and-go bakery/pasty shop
Address: 945 S 300 W, Granary District
Website: doughminer.com
If you’re in a hurry but still want something special, Dough Miner is your best bet. Specializing in savory pasties—portable, golden-baked pockets of meat, potatoes, and cheese—this Granary District spot nails the concept of grab-and-go without sacrificing quality.
Patrons describe the pasties as “perfectly flaky” and “deeply satisfying,” with options ranging from classic steak-and-potato to rotating seasonal fillings. It’s a favorite among office workers and creatives from nearby co-working spaces looking for a fast, hearty lunch. The vibe inside is retro-minimalist, and the smell of baking pastry alone is enough to lure you in off the sidewalk.
Avenues Proper
Type: Brewpub & American bites
Address: 376 8th Ave, Avenues
Website: avenuesproper.com
Tucked away in the historic Avenues neighborhood, Avenues Proper offers a seasonal, chef-driven lunch menu that’s as elevated as it is approachable. From house-ground burgers to inventive small plates, the offerings change with the seasons but always feature local ingredients and thoughtful prep.
It’s a go-to for both weekend brunch and weekday lunches, thanks to its welcoming patio and Proper Brewing beer selection. Reviewers on Google and TripAdvisor highlight the calm atmosphere and consistently strong service. It’s a spot where you can have a relaxed lunch with a colleague or unwind mid-day with a pint and a solid burger.
Délice Bakery & Café
Type: Café & bakery
Address: 2747 S State St, South Salt Lake
Website: delicebakery.com
For a lunch that leans lighter—but doesn’t skimp on flavor—Délice Bakery & Café is a charming stop just south of downtown. This Euro-style café blends warm hospitality with house-baked pastries, crisp paninis, and refreshing salads, all served in a bright and airy atmosphere.
Locals often mention it as a hidden gem, tucked away from the city’s more trafficked streets. Yelp reviewers praise the bakery’s flaky croissants and seasonal quiches, while others return regularly for the turkey panini paired with a fresh green salad. It’s also a popular spot for casual business meetings and solo lunches, thanks to its quiet vibe and strong coffee program. If you’re wondering where to eat lunch in Salt Lake City and want something peaceful and refined, Délice is a safe bet.
Salt Lake Brewing Co (Squatters Pub)
Type: Brewpub
Address: 147 W Broadway, Downtown SLC
Website: squatters.com
As Utah’s original brewpub, Salt Lake Brewing Co—better known to many as Squatters—has been a downtown fixture since the late 1980s. It’s a go-to for hearty pub fare like burgers, club sandwiches, and wings, all paired with their lineup of award-winning beers brewed onsite.
OpenTable reviewers describe the space as casual and bustling during lunch hours, with fast service and generous portions. The location near Broadway makes it especially convenient for office-goers and travelers staying downtown. For those exploring top lunch places in Salt Lake, this one delivers the classic brewpub combo: reliable comfort food, great beer, and a crowd that feels like locals and visitors blending seamlessly.
SOMI Vietnamese Bistro
Type: Vietnamese/Asian fusion
Address: 1215 E Wilmington Ave #100, Sugar House
Website: somislc.com
SOMI brings a touch of modern elegance to Vietnamese cuisine, offering a focused and elevated lunch experience in the Sugar House district. Their menu balances tradition with flair—think vermicelli bowls with grilled pork, bánh mì sandwiches with a crisp French baguette, and pho that’s both aromatic and beautifully plated.
It’s often highlighted in local blogs and lunch recommendation threads on Reddit for its atmosphere: sleek without feeling cold, and ideal for a sit-down lunch that still fits within your hour. Google reviewers frequently call out the attentive service and refined plating, while the flavor-forward dishes make SOMI one of the best lunch spots in SLC for Asian cuisine done with intention.
Woodbine Food Hall
Type: Food hall
Address: 545 W 700 S, Granary District
Website: woodbineslc.com
If you’re dining with a group—or just indecisive—Woodbine Food Hall is the ultimate lunchtime solution. Nestled in the revitalized Granary District, this food hall features multiple vendors offering everything from ramen and Nashville hot chicken to craft tacos, pizza, and more.
Reviewers across platforms mention the energetic, industrial-chic vibe and the sheer range of options. It’s a popular choice for co-workers with different cravings or solo diners who want to explore something new. With both indoor and patio seating, plus beer and cocktail options, it turns the lunch hour into a mini tasting adventure. Among SLC restaurants for lunch, Woodbine stands out for sheer variety and communal energy.
Garage On Beck
Type: Pub & comfort food
Address: 199 Beck St, Marmalade
Website: garageonbeck.com
Set in a converted gas station just north of downtown, Garage On Beck oozes character and comfort. The menu leans all-in on pub-style indulgence—burgers, wings, and their cult-favorite “Mormon funeral potatoes,” which have earned shout-outs on Reddit and Google alike for being both nostalgic and uncommonly satisfying.
The casual atmosphere is a standout feature, with picnic tables, local live music, and open-air seating that feels more like a neighborhood gathering than a restaurant. It’s a top pick for those seeking unfussy, flavorful food with a side of Utah charm. If you’re narrowing down where to eat lunch in Salt Lake City with a side of character, Garage On Beck has serious appeal.
Whiskey Street
Type: Bar & modern American
Address: 323 S Main St, Downtown SLC
Website: whiskeystreet.com
Don’t let the name fool you—Whiskey Street isn’t just a bar. During daylight hours, it morphs into one of the best places to eat lunch in Salt Lake City Utah, offering a menu of elevated American fare with surprising depth. Sandwiches, small plates, and fresh salads dominate the menu, all served in a space that feels more like an upscale lounge than a tavern.
Yelp and Wikipedia both highlight its calm daytime atmosphere and serious attention to cocktail craftsmanship. It’s popular with professionals and downtown dwellers who want an elevated yet efficient meal. Bonus: the booths are perfect for conversation-heavy business lunches or recharging solo with a bourbon and a BLT.
Monarca
Type: Mexican bistro & bar
Address: 268 S State St, Downtown SLC
Website: monarcaslc.com
A newer entrant to Salt Lake City’s lunch scene, Monarca has already made a splash with its artful approach to Mexican cuisine. With a menu rooted in regional classics and an upscale bar program, this restaurant was named Best Restaurant Bar 2023 by OpenTable—no small feat in a competitive downtown market.
Diners on OpenTable and Google call out the ceviches, enchiladas, and lunch-hour tacos as both beautifully presented and deeply flavorful. Monarca is ideal for a client lunch or mid-day celebration, with an ambiance that feels like a mini escape from the workday. If you’re exploring top lunch places in Salt Lake and want something festive yet polished, it checks every box.
Caffe Molise
Type: Italian upscale casual
Address: 55 W 100 S, Downtown SLC
Website: caffemolise.com
Few restaurants in Salt Lake have the longevity and local love that Caffe Molise commands. A fixture for over 30 years, this Italian gem serves up handmade pastas, pan-seared proteins, and seasonal specials in an elegant-yet-approachable setting. It’s lunch with intention—think Ravioli con Zucca, Pappardelle al Sugo, and a glass of wine under the midday sun.
Multiple OpenTable reviews highlight the consistency and warmth of service, noting that lunch here feels like both a meal and a mini retreat. Whether you’re dining al fresco or seated indoors near their iconic art collection, Caffe Molise proves that the best places to eat lunch in Salt Lake City Utah can also be the most memorable.
FAQ: Best Places to Eat Lunch in Salt Lake City Utah
What’s the most convenient lunch spot downtown?
Caputo’s Market & Deli and Squatters Pub are two centrally located options that offer fast service and quality meals, perfect for workday lunches or sightseeing breaks.
Where can I get a quick lunch to-go in Salt Lake City?
Dough Miner and Woodbine Food Hall are standout options for fast, flavorful lunches. The pasties at Dough Miner and the vendor variety at Woodbine make them local favorites for grab-and-go.
Which Salt Lake City lunch spots are good for a business meeting?
Caffe Molise, Avenues Proper, and Whiskey Street all offer quiet daytime atmospheres and attentive service—ideal for professional settings.
Are there any upscale lunch spots in Salt Lake City?
Yes—Monarca and Caffe Molise both provide elevated dining experiences, with chef-crafted menus and full bar programs. They’re perfect for a polished lunch date or mid-day splurge.
What’s a fun lunch option with a group?
Woodbine Food Hall is great for groups thanks to its variety of vendors and casual, communal seating. Garage On Beck is another solid pick for relaxed group dining with pub food and live music ambiance.
If you’re planning your midday meal, these are the best places to eat lunch in Salt Lake City Utah
Lunch is more than just a break in the day—it’s an opportunity to recharge, reconnect, or explore a new flavor in your own city. Whether you’re a local in search of a fast favorite or a visitor wondering where to eat lunch in Salt Lake City, this list offers something for every appetite. From artisan sandwiches and classic comfort food to globally inspired dishes and elevated Italian, these 12 spots showcase the incredible diversity of the Salt Lake dining scene.
With so many choices packed into walkable neighborhoods like Sugar House, the Avenues, and downtown, it’s easy to see why lunch in SLC is anything but boring. No matter your mood or timeframe, the best places to eat lunch in Salt Lake City Utah deliver quality, authenticity, and the kind of midday satisfaction that keeps locals coming back again and again.
About Utah Food Reviews
Utah Food Reviews is your go-to regional guide for honest, locally grounded restaurant coverage across the Wasatch Front and beyond. We focus on real crowd consensus, expert curation, and accurate reporting—always highlighting the best places to eat, drink, and gather in Utah.
Learn more about our mission and editorial standards on our About Us page.
About the Author
Written by Ellie Maren, a Salt Lake City–born food writer and cultural documentarian dedicated to chronicling the Mountain West’s evolving dining landscape. As the editor of Utah Food Reviews, Ellie brings clarity, intention, and deep local insight to every review—favoring observation over opinion and experience over flash. From family-run lunch counters to modern tasting rooms, she tells the story of Utah’s kitchens with integrity and presence.
How This Article Was Prepared
This article was compiled by the editorial team at Utah Food Reviews through extensive analysis of real diner feedback and review trends. We cross-referenced high-authority sources such as Gastronomic SLC, OpenTable, Reddit forums, TikTok videos, Instagram posts, Google Reviews, and Yelp ratings to ensure each recommendation reflects true local popularity and quality. We do not accept paid placements—every listing is earned through consistent excellence noted across platforms.
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