When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Avenues Proper
Why Avenues Proper is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Avenues Proper, established in 2013, is a cornerstone brewery and publick house nestled in the historic Avenues neighborhood of Salt Lake City. It offers a unique meeting spot where friends can enjoy small-batch, handcrafted beers brewed in-house, alongside a carefully curated core lineup from Proper Brewing Co. This brewpub combines an upscale yet approachable ambiance with a locally sourced, house-made menu designed to pair perfectly with its extensive beer offerings. The setting itself is inviting and informal, featuring a separation between the family-friendly restaurant and the adult bar area, which showcases the glass-enclosed brewing operation, adding an engaging visual backdrop to social gatherings. The venue is open into the evening with extended kitchen hours on weekends, making it a flexible choice for casual meetups or more lively weekend outings. Regularly hosting guest taps from other local breweries, Avenues Proper supports the broader Utah craft beer community and invites visitors to explore a variety of flavors. Situated near notable landmarks like Memory Grove Park and Utah State Capitol, it's an accessible and bustling locale with all the hallmarks of a beloved neighborhood brewery that blends tradition and innovation.
Here's what people think of Avenues Proper
As of recent, Avenues Proper holds a 4.1-star rating based on 605 reviews.
Reviews for Avenues Proper paint a picture of a well-regarded local hub with a solid 4.1 rating across over 600 reviews. Visitors consistently praise the quality and variety of the craft beers, highlighting the range of house-brewed selections and the unique experience of watching the brewing process through the glass-enclosed area. The food receives considerable acclaim as well, with many reviewers commending the upscale yet approachable dishes made from local ingredients, which pair excellently with the beers. The ambiance is frequently described as comfortable and inviting, suitable for both casual family dining and adult socializing, thanks to the thoughtfully divided spaces. Additionally, many appreciate the staff's friendliness and the vibrant, neighborhood feel of the establishment. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional wait times during peak hours and inconsistent service experiences. A few patrons noted that the bar area can become crowded and noisy, which might detract from a more relaxed visit. Despite these criticisms, the majority of reviews emphasize the consistent quality of both the drink and dining experience. Overall, the review consensus underscores Avenues Proper as a celebrated local gathering spot that balances excellent craft brewing with a warm community atmosphere—making it a reliable choice for both locals and visitors seeking a proper pint and good company.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Renee Gomes
This is a great spot to meet up and have a brunch and a beer. We had a young child with us so the dining area chatter was enough that kiddo noise was not out of place. The dishes we ordered were presented well, but the lack of depth of flavor in the gravy dishes made them a bit bland. The chilaquiles were very spicy, great flavor, but the dish couldn’t be finished due to the heat level. No complaints from the French toast or kids waffle. I absolutely would go back, but ask for hot sauce to perk up my pork chop and eggs. The pork chop was no different than a chicken fried steak IMO, delicious, but a bit “mild”. I had the second breakfast oatmeal stout. It was quite dark like I wanted but had a bitter profile that outweighed any notes of chocolate and other things they listed on the menu.
Jessica Loeloff
We went here for dinner over Labor Day weekend with the whole family (kids ages 6 and 2). We have visited before, as it’s pretty close to our house, but it had been a year or so. The food was pretty good! Not spectacular, and similar feedback from last time. The fried mushrooms mostly just tasted like the batter. The cauliflower was very good, loved the sauce! Steak and frites was fine - steak was a little fatty/chewy but cooked well and the way I asked. Fries were yummy and seasoned well. Loved the butter on the steak. The burger was okay, but my husband said the version he had at Proper Burger downtown was better. The little ones split the kids’ waffles and loved the fruit, but for some reason said the syrup tasted funny (yes! Kids complained about a sugary syrup!). I think this was because it was infused with an herb. I suspect adults would appreciate this more. Service was fine. Our waitress was attentive and listened. We sat outside on the patio and it was a nice, quiet evening. We would go back.
Chase Saxton
The food and drinks were great. Felt a little small town like, which was kind of cool. Mostly because it was in a neighborhood. Though they have a kids menu the food wasn't the best for kids. Staff mostly friendly. We'll be back for sure.
Hannah Loehrke
The fancy frites were phenomenal, and the thyme maple syrup with the French toast was so unique
Ryan Hogan
Avenues Proper in Salt Lake City is a must-visit spot for anyone seeking a vibrant dining experience with an inventive twist on classic dishes. Nestled in the Avenues neighborhood, this gastropub captures a cozy yet lively ambiance, making it a great choice for casual meetups or a night out. The menu features a variety of creative, seasonal dishes, and their attention to quality ingredients is apparent in every bite. One of the standout items is their spicy chicken sandwich – a dish that’s hard to forget. The chicken is perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with just the right level of spice to keep things interesting without overwhelming the flavor. Topped with fresh greens, a tangy aioli, and nestled between a soft, toasted bun, this sandwich is an absolute crowd-pleaser and a personal favorite. Apart from the food, Avenues Proper also boasts an impressive selection of house-brewed beers, each thoughtfully crafted to pair well with their menu. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, always ready to make recommendations and ensure a great dining experience. Whether you’re a local or just visiting Salt Lake City, make sure Avenues Proper is on your list – you won’t be disappointed!
How to reach Avenues Proper
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Why Avenues Proper may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Avenues Proper with your friends?
Choosing a venue to gather with friends or family can define the entire experience, and Avenues Proper in Salt Lake City offers everything needed for a memorable meetup. This hidden gem doubles as a neighborhood eatery and microbrewery, providing not just excellent food and drinks but also a warm, inviting atmosphere. It stands out as Utah’s smallest craft brewery, so if your group appreciates unique, small-batch beers brewed in-house, this place has you covered. The décor strikes a perfect balance between contemporary and cozy, featuring exposed ceiling air ducts, polished cement floors, and low-slung leather seating that create an urban yet relaxed vibe. Despite hard surfaces that often cause noise in other venues, Avenues Proper maintains a surprisingly comfortable and quiet environment—ideal for catching up and lively conversation. The staff completes the package with friendly, attentive service that ensures everyone feels welcome. Whether it’s a casual night out, a birthday celebration, or a weekend brunch, this is a venue where your group can relax, enjoy proper food and proper drinks, and cherish the quality time together.
What activities can you enjoy at Avenues Proper and why is it perfect for group meetups?
At Avenues Proper, the activities subtly revolve around great food, craft brewing, and social engagement, making it an excellent spot for group gatherings. The small-batch microbrewery aspect allows friends to explore distinctive beers unavailable elsewhere in the area, including creamy nitro taps like their popular Oatmeal Red, an Irish-style red ale. Beer tasting becomes an event in itself as you sample various house brews alongside your meal. Their menu features a delightful range of appetizers and entrees, often with a twist—such as the spicy Cauliflower Pa Nang—that ignite the palate and encourage shared plates. Large groups can easily split dishes, fostering a communal dining experience. The restaurant's reputation for serving flavorful, thoughtfully prepared food means your meetup can focus on enjoying quality dishes rather than just drinks. Additionally, the space accommodates weekend brunch, expanding opportunities to catch up in the daytime. The balance of ambience, service, and food selection ensures every person in the group finds something enjoyable, making it easier to please diverse tastes. Whether it’s a lively celebration or a quiet get-together, the environment naturally lends itself to socializing without overwhelming noise or distractions.
How does Avenues Proper create an inviting ambiance for groups?
Avenues Proper achieves its inviting ambiance through careful design choices and strategic management of sound and lighting, critical for a group-friendly environment. The décor is contemporary industrial with exposed ductwork, polished concrete, and bare wooden furniture but is softened by warmth and thoughtful layout to prevent the space from feeling cold or overly noisy. Despite multiple hard surfaces that can reflect sound, the venue manages excellent acoustics; groups can enjoy conversations without having to raise their voices, making it easy to engage with everyone present. Comfortable leather banquettes line the walls, providing cozy seating that encourages lingering over drinks and food. Lighting is warm and welcoming, neither too bright nor too dim, which adds to the relaxed vibe. The staff contributes substantially to the atmosphere by being attentive yet unobtrusive, facilitating smooth service and ensuring social energy remains positive without interruptions. These elements combine to create a setting that invites groups to settle in comfortably, whether for intimate friend circles or larger family gatherings.
What kind of food and drink offerings make Avenues Proper stand out for groups?
The food and drink options at Avenues Proper mix quality craftsmanship with approachable variety, making it a standout choice for groups. Their kitchen delivers high-quality, satisfying dishes that can be shared among friends, including creative appetizers and hearty mains. For example, flavorful, spicy options like the Cauliflower Pa Nang reflect a chef excited to offer bold tastes, appealing to those who enjoy adventurous eating. Salad options and meat-focused dishes also provide balance, catering to different preferences and dietary needs within a group. Drinks are equally enticing, with the in-house microbrewery producing unique small-batch beers not found elsewhere in Salt Lake City. These craft brews, including smooth ales served on nitro tap, allow groups to toast with something special, enhancing celebrations like milestone birthdays. Beyond the beers, a well-curated drink menu ensures everyone can find a favorite, from casual drinkers to beer aficionados. This combination of quality, variety, and distinctive local brewing makes sharing a meal here a richer, more engaging experience for groups.
Why is the service at Avenues Proper favorable for hosting meetups?
Service at Avenues Proper is consistently praised for being friendly, professional, and accommodating—crucial factors when hosting a meetup. The staff’s attentiveness ensures that even larger groups receive timely service without feeling rushed or neglected. Friendly interaction from servers helps create a welcoming environment where guests feel comfortable asking questions about the menu or drink offerings and can rely on knowledgeable recommendations. This level of care enhances the overall meetup experience, allowing the group to focus on enjoying each other’s company rather than managing logistics. Furthermore, being a privately owned establishment, Avenues Proper seems to maintain a close-knit team spirit, translating to genuine hospitality and pride in service quality. This attention to detail results in a smooth flow from ordering to dining, minimizing wait times and encouraging a relaxed, uninterrupted gathering, which is essential when hosting celebrations or casual catch-ups.
What makes Avenues Proper suitable for special occasions like birthdays or weekend brunches?
Avenues Proper’s versatility is a major draw for groups looking to mark special occasions or enjoy leisurely weekend brunches. The venue’s microbrewery aspect adds a unique flair to milestone celebrations such as 21st birthdays, where guests can enjoy their first legal craft beers in a comfortable setting. Casual yet refined, the environment supports both lively toasts and meaningful conversations. Furthermore, the restaurant’s weekend brunch offerings provide an additional layer of social opportunity—bringing friends or family together for a relaxed meal in the late morning or early afternoon. The menu during brunch retains the quality and creativity seen at dinner, often catering well to group dining with ample options for sharing. Whether it’s an upbeat birthday party or a sunny brunch gathering, Avenues Proper’s combination of ambiance, food, drink, and attentive service makes it an adaptable space that meets a variety of social needs while feeling special and thoughtfully curated.
How accessible and convenient is Avenues Proper for groups coming together?
Located off B Street, near the hospital and in a pleasant neighborhood of Salt Lake City, Avenues Proper is conveniently situated for locals and visitors alike. Its proximity to residential areas means groups can easily plan meetups without extensive travel or parking hassle. The neighborhood setting adds a sense of intimacy and safety that larger, busier locations often lack, making guests feel at home. Hours of operation are accommodating, with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch time slots that fit a range of schedules and preferences. The layout inside is spacious enough to handle groups without crowding, providing privacy for conversations while operating within a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere. All these factors combine to make Avenues Proper an accessible and convenient choice for hosting gatherings—whether planned in advance or spontaneous.
What feedback do visitors provide that supports Avenues Proper as a meetup spot?
Visitors consistently highlight several aspects of Avenues Proper that affirm its status as an excellent group meetup destination. Reviews often emphasize the good service, attentive staff, and high-quality food, with many guests noting their desire to return multiple times because of the welcoming environment and satisfying culinary experience. Highlights include the unique house-brewed beers, the flavorful menu including spicy dishes for food adventurers, and the comfortable seating arrangements that encourage gathering and lingering. Some guests particularly appreciate the venue’s atmosphere as neither too loud nor overly formal, striking a perfect balance for socializing. One review mentioned celebrating a 21st birthday there as a memorable experience, underlining the suitability for special occasions. Overall, the positive reception from visitors reinforces Avenues Proper’s reputation as a neighborhood hub where friends and family can gather comfortably and enjoyably.
Why should you consider Avenues Proper over other restaurants or bars for your next group event?
When choosing a spot for your next group meetup, Avenues Proper offers a distinctive combination of qualities that set it apart from typical restaurants or bars. The unique microbrewery aspect means your group can enjoy craft beer brewed onsite, which adds a special personalized touch to the occasion that usual pubs or chain restaurants don’t provide. The thoughtfully curated food menu caters to diverse tastes and promotes sharing, essential for group dynamics. Ambiance-wise, it balances modern design with warmth, creating a refined yet unpretentious environment. Service is friendly and responsive, enhancing comfort and flow during any meetup. Additionally, the venue’s commitment to quality and local community creates a neighborhood feel where everyone can relax and connect. Considering these factors, Avenues Proper is more than a place to eat and drink—it’s a hub for social experience, making your gathering memorable and enjoyable.