Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Salt Lake City | Upscale Soul Food Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Salt Lake City | Upscale Soul Food Food

• Proper Brewing Company — American · rated 4/5: Industrial charm meets a vibrant social energy at this bustling brewery, where the gleam of stainless steel tanks provides a backdrop for lively conversations and clinking pint glasses. The air carries the toasted scent of malt and citrusy hops, inviting guests to explore a rotating tap list paired with elevated comfort food that reimagines classic pub fare. Whether settling into a communal table or grabbing a seat at the bar, diners find a welcoming space where the craft of brewing is celebrated in every crisp sip and savory bite.
• Sayonara — Japanese · rated 4/5: Steaming bowls of rich, artisanal ramen take center stage at Sayonara, where the comforting aroma of simmering broth invites guests into a vibrant, high-energy space. A curated forest of draft handles pours everything from crisp Japanese lagers to citrusy local IPAs, providing a cold, refreshing balance to the kitchen’s savory, noodle-filled masterpieces. The experience is rounded out by inventive cocktails like the fiery Wasabi Mule, making it a premier destination for those seeking the perfect marriage of soul-warming comfort food and a lively bar scene.
• Empanadas801 — Spanish · rated 4/5: Golden, hand-crimped pockets of savory delight take center stage at Empanadas801, where the air is thick with the comforting scent of toasted pastry and slow-simmered spices. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch that gives way to tender, flavorful fillings, perfectly paired with vibrant house-made salsas that add a zesty kick to the experience. This inviting neighborhood haunt captures the essence of artisanal street food, offering a warm and vibrant space where every flaky, sun-kissed empanada feels like a handcrafted celebration of flavor.
• Bar Nohm — Japanese · rated 4/5: Moody lighting and neon glows set the stage at this spirited izakaya-inspired haunt, where the energy of a bustling cocktail bar meets the refined artistry of Korean-inflected soul food. The air carries the smoky scent of charcoal-grilled skewers and the bright zing of fermented spices, perfectly paired with inventive cocktails that push the boundaries of traditional mixology. It is a place where bold, punchy flavors meet a sophisticated edge, inviting guests to linger over shared plates in a space that feels both intimate and electric.
• Paxton Pub — American · rated 4/5: Paxton Pub stands as a soulful neighborhood sanctuary where the warm patina of weathered wood and the rhythmic clink of glassware create an instantly familiar embrace. Guests lose track of time over frothy, hand-pulled ales and plates of elevated comfort food that celebrate honest flavors, all served within a convivial atmosphere that hums with the spirit of local community.
• Sugar House Station — American · rated 4/5: Sugar House Station serves as a vibrant culinary crossroads where the nostalgic charm of a neighborhood hub meets a world of bold, sun-drenched flavors. The air hums with the aroma of bubbling pizza al taglio and golden, crispy fried chicken, while tables are laden with everything from delicate Greek mezedakia to bowls of silken, authentic pasta. It is a welcoming sanctuary where global comfort food is elevated to an art form, inviting guests to linger over a signature burger or find a sweet finale in a whimsical homemade confection.
• Aces High Saloon — American · rated 4/5: Aces High Saloon invites guests into a spirited, rustic retreat where the aroma of sizzling carne asada and melted cheese fills the air. The kitchen masterfully bridges the gap between zesty Mexican street food and classic American comfort, serving up everything from sauce-smothered burritos to jus-soaked French dips in a space that feels both timeless and energetic. It is a destination for those seeking bold, soul-warming flavors and a lively atmosphere that captures the heart of a true neighborhood hangout.
• Good Food Gluten Free — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this inviting neighborhood gem, where the comforting scent of allergen-friendly baking fills the air and promises a feast without compromise. Guests indulge in a thoughtfully curated menu of vibrant, wholesome dishes that prove gluten-free dining can be both sophisticated and soul-satisfying, all within a warm atmosphere designed for effortless connection.
• The Bayou — American · rated 4/5: Stepping into this vibrant tribute to the Gulf Coast feels like a spirited escape to the heart of New Orleans, where the air hums with energy and the aroma of bold, peppery spices. The kitchen reimagines Southern comfort through inventive plates like savory alligator cheesecake and golden gumbo fries, while heaps of crispy popcorn crawfish and zesty paprika shrimp bring a playful, soul-warming crunch to the table.
• Oasis Cafe — Mediterranean · rated 4/5: This sun-drenched retreat invites guests to unwind amidst the irresistible aromas of hand-tossed pizzas and sizzling gourmet burgers, creating a vibrant sanctuary for elevated comfort food. The kitchen transforms nostalgic favorites into a culinary escape, pairing velvety homemade mac n’ cheese with whimsical treats like cinnamon-dusted churros and the iconic, tropical chill of Dole Whip.
• The Lion House Pantry — American · rated 3/5: Steeped in history, this inviting cellar eatery welcomes guests with the irresistible aroma of legendary, pull-apart rolls and sweet honey butter served amidst the warmth of rustic brick walls. Diners find a nostalgic sanctuary in the heart of the city, savoring soul-warming comfort food that evokes the simple, hearty flavors of a traditional family kitchen.
• Flanker — American · rated 2/5: Bathed in the electric glow of massive screens and vibrant neon, this high-octane sporting club reimagines the game-day experience as a sophisticated social celebration. Guests settle into plush seating to enjoy elevated American comfort food and masterfully shaken cocktails, all while immersed in a pulse-pounding atmosphere where the thrill of the stadium meets the refinement of a premier lounge.
• Desert Edge Pub — American: Housed in a historic, high-ceilinged space where the clatter of copper kettles meets the warm hum of neighborhood chatter, this inviting brewery serves as a rustic oasis for craft beer enthusiasts. Golden ales and robust stouts flow freely from the taps, perfectly pairing with a menu of hearty, elevated comfort food that celebrates bold flavors and local ingredients. Whether tucked into a cozy booth or enjoying the airy atmosphere, diners find a soulful retreat where the art of brewing and the joy of a shared meal come together seamlessly.
• Sawadee 2Go — Thai: The air hums with the rhythmic clatter of woks and the intoxicating aroma of toasted chilies and fresh basil, drawing diners into a vibrant space where the soul of Thai street food thrives. Each dish bursts with a balanced harmony of sweet, sour, and spicy notes, offering a quick yet transportive journey through the bustling night markets of Bangkok.
• Oh Mai — Vietnamese: This lively neighborhood haunt hums with energy, drawing guests in with the irresistible aroma of charred lemongrass pork and the crisp crackle of golden, house-baked baguettes. Vibrant bowls of steaming pho arrive at sun-drenched tables, brimming with fragrant herbs and a rich, slow-simmered broth that captures the soulful essence of Vietnamese street food. It is a bright, welcoming space where the bold interplay of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors creates a fast-paced yet deeply satisfying culinary escape.
• Big Dipper Sandwiches — American: This vibrant neighborhood haunt hums with the savory aroma of slow-simmered jus and golden, crusty baguettes fresh from the oven. Towering sandwiches are crafted with artisanal flair, inviting guests to partake in the messy, soul-warming ritual of plunging each bite into rich, umami-packed broths that define the ultimate comfort food experience.
• Salt Egg City — Chinese: Step into a vibrant culinary hub where the rich, golden allure of salted egg yolk takes center stage, infusing every dish with a decadent, umami-packed glow. The kitchen masterfully balances velvety, sun-colored sauces with satisfyingly crispy textures, reimagining modern comfort food through a bold and buttery lens. This high-energy destination elevates a singular, savory obsession into a gourmet experience that is as visually striking as it is deeply indulgent.
• La Casa Del Tamal — Mexican: The air here is thick with the nostalgic aroma of steamed corn husks and slow-braised chilies, drawing guests into a lively space that celebrates the soulful heart of Mexican comfort food. Each hand-folded tamal reveals a treasure of tender masa and vibrant fillings, creating a sensory journey that honors tradition through every savory, spice-kissed bite.
• HalGaTteok — Korean: This vibrant eatery breathes new life into Korean soul food, serving up thick, uncut rice cakes that swim in a glossy, deep-crimson sauce rich with sweet and savory heat. The air is filled with the comforting aroma of simmering broth and sizzling tempura, inviting diners to savor a nostalgic yet elevated street-food experience where every chewy, spice-laden bite feels like a warm embrace.
• Vegan Daddy — American: Vegan Daddy brings a bold, soulful energy to plant-based dining, where the air hums with upbeat music and the irresistible aroma of sizzling, savory comfort food. Guests dive into indulgent, gravity-defying creations that challenge every plant-based stereotype, layering smoky textures and vibrant house-made sauces into dishes that feel both nostalgic and revolutionary. The space radiates a welcoming, unpretentious charm, inviting everyone to linger over decadent bites that prove meat-free dining can be both wildly satisfying and unapologetically fun.
• Mexitacos — Mexican: Mexitacos pulses with the vibrant energy of a sun-drenched street market, where the rhythmic sizzle of the plancha and the intoxicating aroma of charred chilies draw guests into a colorful, high-energy space. Hand-pressed tortillas serve as the canvas for a symphony of bold flavors, from succulent, slow-cooked meats to zesty house-made salsas that provide a bright, spicy kick to every bite. This lively neighborhood gem captures the soulful essence of authentic street food, offering a spirited escape where every meal feels like a festive celebration.
• Saffron Valley East India Cafe — Indian: This vibrant escape captures the soul of the subcontinent, where the warm glow of golden saffron hues and the intoxicating aroma of hand-ground spices invite guests into a space of communal warmth. The kitchen weaves together a rich tapestry of regional flavors, from the fiery depth of slow-simmered curries to the delicate crunch of street-food-inspired small plates, all served with a modern, artistic flair. It is a place where every bite tells a story of heritage and spice, offering a sensory journey that lingers long after the last sip of fragrant chai.
• Sara Thai Kitchen — Thai: Stepping into Sara Thai Kitchen feels like a sensory journey to Southeast Asia, where the air is thick with the fragrant perfume of lemongrass, kaffir lime, and sizzling chilies. Vibrant curries swirled with silky coconut milk and wok-seared noodles arrive at candlelit tables, offering a masterclass in the delicate balance of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors that define authentic Thai soul food.
• South City Tacos — Mexican: South City Tacos pulses with a vibrant, urban energy where the rhythmic chop of fresh ingredients and the sizzle of seasoned meats on the plancha create a lively soundtrack for every meal. Hand-pressed tortillas cradle a kaleidoscope of bold flavors, from smoky charred proteins to zesty house-made salsas that burst with brightness and heat. It is a soulful neighborhood haunt where the air is thick with the aroma of toasted chilies, inviting guests to settle in for an authentic celebration of street-food artistry.
• Chicken Express — American: This bustling Southern landmark welcomes guests with the irresistible aroma of seasoned flour and hot oil, creating a nostalgic atmosphere centered around the art of the deep fry. Hand-breaded tenders and golden catfish fillets arrive piping hot alongside pillowy rolls and savory hushpuppies, offering a satisfying crunch that defines the comfort-food experience. A legendary cup of ice-cold sweet tea serves as the perfect companion, cutting through the rich, savory flavors of a quintessential roadside feast.
• Arempa's — Mexican: Arempa’s captures the vibrant spirit of Venezuelan street food, drawing guests in with the irresistible scent of toasted corn and the lively hum of a bustling kitchen. Golden, griddle-crisped arepas arrive steaming and overstuffed with everything from succulent pulled meats to cool, zesty slaw, offering a soulful dining experience that balances rustic tradition with bold, sun-drenched flavors.
• Santo Taco — Mexican: Vibrant colors and the rhythmic press of fresh masa set the stage at this lively taqueria, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of slow-roasted meats and charred chilies. Guests gather in a spirited, sun-drenched space to feast on hand-pressed tortillas overflowing with succulent fillings and bright, zesty salsas that capture the soulful essence of Mexican street food. Every bite offers a bold celebration of tradition, creating a high-energy dining experience that feels both authentic and refreshingly modern.
• Señor Pollo Mexican Grill — Mexican: The air at this vibrant grill is thick with the smoky, citrus-infused aroma of chickens slow-roasting to golden perfection over an open flame. Inside, a lively atmosphere welcomes guests to feast on succulent, spice-rubbed meats paired with zesty house-made salsas and warm tortillas that capture the soulful heart of Mexican comfort food.
• Dickey's BBQ Pit — American: The air hangs heavy with the intoxicating aroma of hickory smoke at this quintessential Texas-style pit, where slow-cooked meats are hand-sliced to order and served with rustic charm. Guests feast on tender, bark-crusted brisket and fall-off-the-bone ribs piled high on butcher paper, all complemented by savory southern sides and the refreshing chill of an iconic oversized yellow cup.
• Rancherito's — Mexican: Rancherito’s hums with the vibrant energy of a classic neighborhood taqueria, where the savory aroma of sizzling al pastor and grilled carne asada spills from the busy open kitchen. Guests dive into oversized burritos wrapped in warm tortillas and street tacos piled high with fresh cilantro, all brightened by a colorful array of zesty, house-made salsas. This unpretentious local staple offers a comforting, flavor-packed escape that captures the bold and authentic spirit of traditional Mexican street food.