"Ramen was born in China, grew up in Japan, and died in America." Hiro Tagai chuckles as he recalls a conversation with his cousin that has stuck with him ever since. But for Hiro and Felipe Oliveira, ramen is very much alive, and they have made it their mission to share its true essence with the world through Koyote, their dream restaurant.

"So, tea is my happy place, admits Ripple Desai, owner of Tandoori Taqueria in the Maven District. Every time you walk into my parents' home, my dad asks, 'Do you want tea?' And tea in our house is a cup of hot Indian chai.

“Cooking has always been a way for me to be creative, but more importantly, it connects me to my family, my culture, and my roots.” Anthony Chung opened Red Lotus Bistro in April 2020, just one week after Salt Lake City was hit with a wave of closures and uncertainty due to the pandemic. 

“Edison House is not your grandfather’s social club,” explains George Cardon-Bystry, one of the co-founders and visionaries behind this dynamic, upscale social club in Salt Lake City. With deep roots in the area as an eighth-generation Utahn, George returned home to create a space that reflects the changing nature of the city and its community. Opened in late 2022, Edison House stands out as a modern reimagining of traditional social clubs, offering an inclusive, vibrant atmosphere that attracts a diverse membership.

“I’m not a chef; I’m a pilot who just happens to love good food.” Pierre Vandamme laughs as he reflects on the winding path that brought him from Belgium to Salt Lake City - and to opening Bruges Belgian Bistro.

"My entire family is all about food. It's what our family revolves around." Manoli Katsanevas, owner of the eponymous Manoli’s as well as the less formal Paréa, was born and raised in the world of food. When he turned eighteen, he knew that he wanted to pursue a career in this field. Today, he has woven his Greek heritage into the culinary fabric of Salt Lake City, creating dining experiences that celebrate family, tradition, and exceptional cuisine.

“Alan Galeano is the kind of person everyone should have in their life,” says Jonas Piraquive, co-owner, and manager of Mi Buena Vida. Jonas and Alan's shared vision goes beyond delicious food - creating a space where customers feel at home, and employees are valued. It is, therefore, not surprising that this vibrant Mexican restaurant quickly became a community favorite in Salt Lake City since its opening in December 2022.

“We knew we could do well in a Thai restaurant, but we wanted something more challenging,” explains Maneerut Chitratonn, one of the owners of Early Owl. Opened in May 2024, Early Owl has quickly made its mark on Salt Lake City’s brunch scene. The restaurant offers a fabulous menu full of vibrant, healthy dishes, with eggs taking center stage.

“We have a passion for bringing people together through food and drinks,” says Chris Madrill, one half of the dynamic duo behind Marmalade Brunch House. Chris and his brother, Nelson, opened their brunch spot in April 2023, at the remarkable ages of nineteen and twenty. Their youthful energy and love for great food are palpable in every corner of this colorful, welcoming space.

“We’re embracing our roots and providing something different, something special.” Jennifer Rugg, the manager of Golden Braid Books, emphasized how she and the current owner, Pamela Brown, are fully committed to restoring the store’s original intent: a spiritual haven filled with unique products.

“I came to Utah for school, but I stayed because I fell in love with the people, the environment, and the opportunities,” shared the inspiring restaurateur, Chanon Vanngam. Her journey from Thailand to the United States is as remarkable as the dishes she serves in her beloved Thai restaurant.

“It has been a twenty-six-year revolution of veganism. I have seen it through my eyes in my own business.” Ian Brandt reflected on his journey from operating a food cart to owning one of Salt Lake City’s beloved vegan establishments, Vertical Diner. Ian’s love for culinary gems was nurtured by his parents who favored lesser-known restaurants.

“It was really difficult to choose a name for the restaurant,” Milo Carrier confided when we sat down one summer afternoon. “It’s so permanent.” He went on to say that he did not want it to be associated with a particular cuisine. “I didn’t want people to have a preconceived idea of what they would find when they got here.” Milo then admitted that he did have a dog named Arlo years ago, and, yes, he did listen to Arlo Guthrie’s “Alice’s Restaurant,” growing up. In addition, his sister’s name happens to be Alice. But in the end, he simply liked how Arlo sounded. “It rolls off the tongue easily without offering any hint of what is inside the front door.”