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Best Restaurants in Park City

Best Restaurants in Park City

Park City Southwest, USA Travel Guide

Culinary Overview

Cultural and Historical Context

The town's culinary scene developed from its mining roots into a sophisticated resort destination. While traditional mountain comfort food stays available, a strong focus exists on high-quality, often locally sourced ingredients.

A diverse array of international cuisines, notably American, Italian, and Asian, stands present. Fine dining is a prominent place in the experience, especially in Deer Valley.

Ingredients and Flavors

  • Hearty dishes suitable for mountain activities are a focus.
  • Game meats, like elk and bison, appear frequently.
  • Fresh, seasonal produce, high-quality cheeses.
  • Craft beverages from local breweries and distilleries gain frequent feature.

Regional Variations

Historic Main Street

Offers the widest variety, from casual pizza to upscale bistros, with a lively atmosphere.

Deer Valley

Known for luxury dining, often with American and European influences, with impeccable service.

Kimball Junction

Features family-friendly and chain restaurants, generally at a lower price point than resort areas.

Dining Customs and Etiquette

  • Reservations: Strongly suggested for dinner, especially at popular spots during peak season.
  • Tipping: 15-20% is customary for quality service.
  • Dress Code: Generally casual, though "smart casual" suits fine dining.
  • Meal Times: Breakfast (7-10 AM), Lunch (11:30 AM-2 PM), Dinner (5-9:30 PM), Après-Ski (3-6 PM).

Must-Try Dishes

Signature Dishes & Snacks

Deer Valley Turkey Chili

A classic and acclaimed dish at Deer Valley Resort, known for its rich and hearty taste.

A mountain favorite, taste a local classic.

Steak & Game Meats

High-quality steaks, elk, and bison often appear on menus, prepared with local ingredients.

Savory meats prepared with local flair.

Truffle Fries

A popular upscale side dish found in many fine dining and casual eateries across town.

An elegant twist on a beloved side.

Beverages & Seasonal Delights

  • Alcoholic: Utah features unique liquor laws.
  • Full-strength beer (5% ABV) is available in grocery stores.
  • Liquor, wine, and higher-ABV beers are sold in state-controlled liquor stores.
  • Restaurants and bars serve a full range, but some "club" licenses may call for temporary membership.

Snacks, Desserts, & Markets

Iconic Snacks & Desserts

Local bakeries and cafes offer pastries, cookies, and desserts. Ice cream shops gain popularity in summer.

Seasonal and Festival Foods

Winter sees hearty soups and warming dishes. Summer offers fresh salads and barbecue. Farmers markets (summer/fall) display local produce, baked goods, and artisanal foods.

Dining Options

Fine Dining Establishments

Experience elevated cuisine and refined settings.

  • Riverhorse on Main: Upscale American cuisine, noted for its ambiance.
  • Grappa: Classic northern Italian dishes in a charming setting.
  • Fireside Dining (Deer Valley): Unique experience with courses cooked by stone fireplaces (winter only).

Mid-Range Restaurants

Comfortable dining with a variety of flavors.

  • High West Saloon & Distillery: Gastropub fare and craft spirits.
  • Wasatch Brewery & Pub: Classic pub fare and local craft beers.
  • No Name Saloon & Grill: Casual American pub with a lively après-ski feel.

Budget Eateries & Markets

Affordable options for a quick and satisfying meal.

  • Davanza's: Local favorite for pizza, subs, and Italian comfort food.
  • Freshie's Lobster Co.: Authentic Maine lobster rolls.
  • Grocery Stores (Smiths, Whole Foods): Offer prepared foods and deli options for affordable meals.

Markets and Food Halls

Park City Farmers Market Summer

A display of local produce, artisanal foods, and prepared meals.

Grocery Stores

Smiths (Kroger), Whole Foods, and Fresh Market stand ready for groceries and prepared items.

International Cuisine Options

Asian Cuisine

Sushi, Thai options available.

Mexican Cuisine

Find various Mexican eateries.

Italian Focus

Italian cuisine stands out.

Other Flavors

Further options on Main Street and Kimball Junction.

Special Dietary Considerations

Specific Dietary Needs

  • Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Most restaurants are accommodating. Vegan options increasingly appear, especially at mid-range to fine dining.
  • Gluten-Free and Other Allergen-Aware Dining: Many restaurants are accustomed to requests for gluten-free, dairy-free, and other allergens.
  • Halal and Kosher Availability: Dedicated Halal or Kosher restaurants are limited.
  • Some larger grocery stores might carry specific Kosher or Halal products. Self-catering advisable for strict dietary needs.

Communicating Your Needs

Inform Your Server

Always let your server know about any allergies and ask about preparation methods.

Clear communication aids a safe dining experience.

Call Ahead

For complex allergies, calling restaurants in advance is recommended to verify options.

Pre-call to secure your dining peace of mind.

Resources for Specific Dietary Needs

Helpful Apps
Find Me Gluten Free
HappyCow (for vegan/vegetarian)
Use these apps to find suitable restaurants.
Look for menus that clearly label dishes.
Always confirm with your server.
Self-catering is an option for very strict needs.

Park City restaurants generally adjust to various dietary needs. Look for establishments proud of their fresh, local ingredients, as they often exhibit greater flexibility.

  • Many chefs appreciate advance notice for special requests.
  • Casual eateries might have fewer options than fine dining.
  • Always double-check ingredients.
Beyond the Restaurant

Grocery stores offer a broad range of products for specific diets, making self-preparation a viable option.

Explore local markets for fresh, raw ingredients.

Culinary Experiences

Tours & Classes
  • Some private chefs or culinary schools display private cooking classes.
  • Food tours, especially walking tours of Historic Main Street, appear through local operators.
  • These tours focus on tastings and the history of the area's food scene. GetYourGuide could feature local food tours.
Local Producers
  • High West Distillery & Saloon: Tours and tastings of whiskey production.
  • Park City Farmers Market: Direct interaction with local farmers and food producers seasonally.
Food Festivals & Events
  • Taste of Park City: An annual culinary event showing local restaurants.
  • Park City Wine Classic: An annual wine festival.
  • Savor the Summit: A long-table dinner on Main Street in June.

Unique Dining Concepts

Mountain-Side Dining

Ski-in/Ski-out Dining

Many restaurants at the base of the resorts display convenient dining right off the slopes.

Ease of access | Quick bites
Park City Mountain Dining
On-Mountain Dining

Fine dining experiences at lodges accessible only by ski, like The Mariposa (Deer Valley) or Glühwein Hut (Park City Mountain).

Exclusive settings
Deer Valley Dining
Après-Ski Tradition

A strong tradition in Park City, with many bars and restaurants displaying special menus and lively atmospheres immediately after the ski day.

Post-ski fun

Further Culinary Highlights

  • Local Dairies and Cheesemakers: Explore artisan cheeses.
  • Seasonal Harvest Events: Festivals and special menus tied to local produce.
  • Craft Bakeries: Freshly baked goods and pastries.
  • Specialty Coffee Shops: Local roasters and unique blends.

Dining Accessibility

Accessibility Information

Many newer restaurants and resorts offer wheelchair access. Historic Main Street may pose challenges due to older buildings and steep terrain.

Verify accessibility directly with establishments.

Public Transport

Park City's free bus system connects most dining areas, offering a convenient way to move between restaurants and bars.

Use the bus to navigate dining destinations.

Local Favorites

High West Distillery & Saloon

A local icon for whiskey and refined Western fare on Main Street.

Sammy's Bistro

A beloved spot for American comfort food with a local following.

Davanza's

A long-standing local favorite for casual pizza and Italian delights.

Important Dining Notes

Utah’s unique liquor laws call for attention. Be aware of rules regarding alcohol sales and consumption.

  • State-controlled liquor stores are the only places to purchase spirits and wine.
  • Many restaurants offer full bar service; some may operate with club licenses.
  • Full-strength beer (5% ABV) is readily available in grocery stores.
  • Responsible consumption is standard practice.
  • Check operating hours for both restaurants and liquor stores.