When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass
Why Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass, located within Utah's first food hall in downtown Salt Lake City, offers a lively and unique dining experience perfect for meeting up with friends. Located at 153 S Rio Grande St Suite 107, this restaurant specializes in bold and flavorful Nashville hot fried chicken with a southern comfort twist. Its presence inside HallPass, an 11,000 square foot modern dining hall featuring multiple artisan kitchens and communal seating, adds to the vibrant atmosphere, making it ideal for social gatherings. Guests can enjoy the lively ambiance paired with the menu’s signature dishes, such as their acclaimed spicy chicken, renowned for being one of the best quick-serve options in the city. The food hall setting provides an expansive and casual environment conducive to spending leisurely hours catching up with friends over great food and drinks. HallPass also boasts amenities including a full bar and outdoor seating, broadening the appeal for casual meetups. Its location in The Gateway area makes it accessible for both locals and visitors looking for a fun, flavorful meal in a contemporary setting. Blaze of Thunder’s integration into this food hall ecosystem means patrons have access to diverse culinary offerings nearby, enhancing the overall social and dining experience.
Here's what people think of Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass
As of recent, Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass holds a 3.6-star rating based on 77 reviews.
User reviews for Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass highlight a mixed but generally favorable reception, reflected in its average rating of 3.6 out of 5 across 77 reviews. Positive feedback often praises the quality and flavor of the chicken, with several customers calling it "the best spicy chicken quick serve" and commending its perfect seasoning and bold southern-style taste. Many appreciate the fast service and the lively food hall environment where the restaurant is situated, making it a convenient and enjoyable spot for casual dining and social gatherings. Users also mention how the restaurant is a popular choice for delivery through platforms like Uber Eats and Grubhub, citing good food quality even when ordered for takeout. On the other hand, some negative reviews focus on inconsistencies in service, particularly mentioning issues with order accuracy and occasional delays in delivery. A few customers found the portion sizes smaller than expected for the price. Some dissatisfaction was noted regarding the Grubhub delivery experience rather than the food itself. Overall, the reviews suggest that while Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass excels in flavor and creating a fun dining atmosphere inside a vibrant food hall, there is room for improvement in order management and delivery logistics. The conclusion from the feedback is that Blaze of Thunder remains a favored spot for spicy chicken enthusiasts who appreciate its unique setting and taste but should enhance service consistency to boost its overall customer satisfaction.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Pj
I’m in town for a business trip, and this spot at Gateway Shopping Mall was perfect for a relaxing meal during the week. The atmosphere is chill, and I stumbled upon Blaze of Thunder, a spicy chicken sandwich place inside the food court. The food was great! I didn’t go for the level 3 spice, but the “Real Quick” hot flavor was just the right amount of heat for me. I had the hot chicken tenders with waffles, and the combination was amazing—crispy, flavorful chicken paired with perfectly cooked waffles. The service was quick, and the whole vibe of the place made it a great spot to grab a bite. If you’re into spicy chicken and fun food, this place is worth checking out!
Tara Esplin
I got "real quick" spice level (medium) and my kids got "too fast" (hot). It was perfect spice level for all of us. It was spicy and so good! Atmosphere at the food hall was great. We will be back!
Molly Alvarez
I’m giving two stars purely for the service, the staff were polite and professional. Unfortunately, the food didn’t live up to expectations. It’s overpriced for what you get. The chicken is overly large and tough, making it difficult to eat or cut, and the only flavor comes from the heat level; there is no seasoning beyond that. The fries were the best part, but still just average. The dipping sauces were watered down and lacked special flavor. Overall, wouldn’t come back to this spot in the food hall.
Jacqueline Telljohann
This spot was my favorite place that my husband and I tried at HallPass. We tried the chicken sandwich with the real quick spice level and a side of mac and cheese. The chicken sandwich was really delicious and the spice level was perfect for us. It had a kick, but it wasn't too spicy. The chicken breast was thin which I like so that it's crispy and not dry. I wouldn't get the mac and cheese again. I wasn't a fan of that style. I'd definitely recommend getting the chicken here though!
Abe Kashiwagi
So let me say this is an amazing ambiance! Hall pass is a great idea that basically rents spaces out to food trucks and provides a great cafeteria/bar type atmosphere. The blaze of thunder chicken sandwhich is to die for.m 😌
How to reach Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass
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Why Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass with your friends?
When planning a meetup with friends or family, finding a place that offers vibrant energy, diverse food options, and a lively atmosphere is crucial—and Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass in Salt Lake City delivers just that. This spot is more than just a restaurant; it's part of HallPass, a dynamic food hall that celebrates local artisanal cuisine, providing an engaging backdrop for social gatherings. Rallying here means immersing yourselves in an environment teeming with creativity, where the eclectic menu caters to a variety of tastes and cravings, from smoky BBQ to Southern fried chicken. The communal seating and open layout encourage mingling and camaraderie, making it ideal for groups. With a 3.6 rating from 77 reviews, it has enough buzz to pique curiosity but still plenty of potential to surprise you positively. Whether you're catching up over a casual bite, celebrating a special occasion, or just looking to enjoy a spirited night out, Blaze of Thunder offers the kind of vibe that makes moments memorable—offering warmth, flavor, and a chance to rally together in a place that feels both welcoming and spirited.
What kinds of activities and experiences does Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass offer for a group meetup?
Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass is uniquely positioned within the HallPass food hall, which supports a range of culinary experiences and communal activities perfect for groups. The food hall concept means you and your friends have access to multiple kitchen vendors all under one roof, allowing for a variety of dining choices that cater to diverse preferences within your group. This fosters a casual environment where each person can explore their cravings without compromise—whether you’re craving Southern-style fried chicken, Dominican BBQ, creative cereal bowls, or playful ice cream concoctions, HallPass has it all nearby. Beyond food, the open seating arrangements encourage socializing, making it easy for groups to sit together or mix and mingle with other guests. The venue also supports delivery and pickup, which means flexibility for those who want to continue the gathering elsewhere or include friends who cannot join in person. The ambiance is lively but not overwhelming, combining urban vibe with a friendly neighborhood feel, which is ideal when hosting meetups that balance fun and comfort.
Why is Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass perfect for group dining experiences?
Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass represents a perfect setting for group dining because of its synergy with the HallPass food hall atmosphere. Unlike traditional standalone restaurants, it offers an immersive “foodie” experience where groups can explore different culinary styles in one shared space. This setup removes limitations often encountered when trying to please everyone’s food choices at once. The interactive nature of a food hall promotes shared food exploration and discovery—making it a sociable experience. Moreover, the casual and modern design of HallPass encourages relaxed, unhurried meals where conversation flows naturally. Special dietary needs or adventurous palettes are equally accommodated, allowing each guest to find something that delights their taste buds without conflict. The communal environment breaks down barriers often found in formal dining, transforming group meals into lively social occasions. Combined with convenient downtown Salt Lake City location and decent parking options, Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass creates a hassle-free meetup spot that welcomes groups large and small.
What are the signature dishes and flavors you can expect at Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass?
Though Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass shares its space with multiple artisanal vendors, its signature offerings make it stand out as a go-to spot within HallPass. Expect authentic, crispy Nashville hot fried chicken famously prepared with that soulful southern flair—crispy exterior, spicy kick, and juicy inside. Alongside this, the presence of traditional Dominican BBQ options adds a smoky, flavorful dimension that brings Caribbean heat and heartiness to the menu. If your group enjoys seafood, lobster rolls and oysters among the options showcase freshness and a taste of the ocean, making the culinary journey even more interesting. For those with a sweet tooth or craving something whimsical, HallPass also features over 100 cereals from around the world, transforming breakfast staples into creative waffles, milkshakes, and desserts—perfect for sharing and indulging together. This wide array ensures that every person’s palate is satisfied and encourages adventurous ordering, adding fun to your group’s dining experience.
How does the atmosphere and design at Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass enhance social gatherings?
The atmosphere at Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass is carefully curated to be lively yet approachable, making it a prime destination for social gatherings. Located inside the HallPass food hall, the design features communal tables, open kitchens, and a modern industrial aesthetic combined with inviting lighting and vibrant décor. This setup fosters a sense of community and togetherness while allowing individual vendors to shine through their open counters, sparking conversations about food and flavor. The noise level here strikes a balance—it’s vibrant enough to energize groups without overwhelming conversation. Additionally, the open layout encourages movement, letting guests explore different food stations and share their finds seamlessly. The flexibility of seating arrangements accommodates various group sizes, from small intimate circles to larger celebrations. The continuous buzz at HallPass creates a shared experience, an essential ingredient to keep group energy high and engagement strong throughout your visit.
What amenities and services make Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass convenient for group meetups?
Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass offers several key amenities that streamline the group meetup experience. The food hall is open six days a week with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays, fitting into busy schedules with ease. Its central location in downtown Salt Lake City means it’s accessible by car and public transport, with easy navigation via major roads. The option for delivery and pickup through platforms like Grubhub adds extra convenience, especially if your group decides to take the party elsewhere. This flexibility caters to different social settings and preferences, whether an in-person meal or a hybrid gathering. Additionally, HallPass frequently promotes staff who are welcoming and attentive, ensuring your group receives efficient service. The environment supports casual dining but also has the atmosphere to elevate special occasions, providing a versatile backdrop regardless of your meetup’s tone. Finally, the variety of vendors means there’s less waiting time for particular dishes, reducing friction and allowing the whole group to eat together in a timely manner.
What makes Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass a great venue for celebrations and special group events?
Celebrating with a group calls for a venue that offers both atmosphere and practical amenities, and Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass delivers on both fronts. Its fluid food hall environment offers a festive, communal spirit more relaxed than traditional restaurants yet lively enough to mark important occasions. Whether it’s a birthday, reunion, or just a casual celebration, the range of foods allows for custom orders and shared platters that everyone can enjoy. The vibrant yet comfortable space lends itself beautifully to photographs and social media memories, which enhances the feeling of a special event. Moreover, the venue’s location in the heart of Salt Lake City means ample nearby parking and ease of access for guests coming from different parts of town. HallPass’s team is also known for being willing to accommodate special requests or larger groups, adding personalized touches that help your gathering stand out. This flexibility combined with an array of delicious food options and a lively scene makes Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass a memorable spot for group celebrations.
How can the combination of diverse food vendors at HallPass enhance your experience at Blaze of Thunder?
Blaze of Thunder is just one of six vendors inside the HallPass food hall, and this collective diversity elevates the meet-up experience to another level. Instead of being limited to a single cuisine, your group can experience a curated culinary adventure—from southern comfort foods to seafood delights, to unique cereals turned into dessert masterpieces. This diversity invites conversation about tastes and experiences, turns ordering into a fun group activity, and lets you cater to everyone's dietary needs and flavor preferences simultaneously. The proximity of diverse vendors encourages sharing dishes, letting your group sample multiple flavors without committing to just one menu, which is a luxury not often enjoyed in typical meet-up venues. This also keeps the energy dynamic, as guests can move around, order at different spots, and share dishes in a way that makes the experience more interactive and memorable. Such a food hall environment naturally nurtures bonding over shared culinary discoveries.
What customer feedback reveals about the strengths and areas for improvement at Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass?
With a 3.6 rating from 77 reviews, Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass presents a picture of mixed experiences that can be useful for future visitors. Many patrons praise the vibrant concept of the food hall and the flavorful, well-prepared dishes, especially highlighting the Nashville hot chicken and Dominican BBQ as standouts. Reviewers often appreciate the communal and casual atmosphere, making it a fun spot to gather with friends. On the other hand, some criticisms mention inconsistency in food quality and service delays during busy hours. A few reviewers find that certain dishes don’t always meet expectations, especially compared to other upscale options in the city. These points suggest that while Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass is a great venue for flavor variety and social ambiance, there may be periodic challenges with execution and crowd management. Overall, those looking for a lively, casual meetup spot with good flavors will find much to enjoy, but it could benefit from improved consistency.
Why is the location of Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass an advantage for meetups?
Situated at 153 S Rio Grande St in downtown Salt Lake City, Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass benefits from a prime urban location. This central spot offers excellent accessibility from most parts of the city, making it easy for groups coming from different directions to converge without hassle. The area surrounding HallPass is vibrant and walkable, meaning attendees can extend their meetup with after-dinner strolls or visits to nearby attractions. Parking options, both street and garage, are available, helping to avoid one common group meetup challenge—finding convenient parking. Its downtown location also means it’s well connected to public transit routes, offering convenience for those preferring not to drive. This blend of accessibility, nearby entertainment options, and an energetic city vibe enhances the overall meetup experience, making Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass a strategically smart choice for social gatherings.
How does Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass support dietary diversity and special food preferences?
One of the most appealing aspects of Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass is how it supports a wide range of dietary needs and preferences, vital for group dining. Thanks to its place within a food hall hosting six distinct culinary vendors, the variety alone ensures that vegetarian, gluten-free, and adventurous eaters can all find suitable options. For instance, the cereal bar lets guests create custom bowls and milkshakes suitable to many dietary choices while the BBQ and fried chicken vendors focus on hearty, protein-rich meals. This range eliminates the typical frustration that arises when trying to please a group with diverse food restrictions and preferences. It encourages experimentation and sharing, making meals inclusive and engaging. Additionally, HallPass vendors often promote locally sourced and artisanal ingredients, which appeals to health-conscious diners looking for quality and transparency in their meals, adding another thoughtful layer to your group dining experience.
What makes the service style at Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass conducive to social group dynamics?
Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass leverages the fast-casual food hall service model, which is especially conducive to group meetups because it encourages interaction and flexibility. Unlike formal sit-down restaurants where groups must wait for sequential orders and tightly timed courses, here guests can order at their leisure from different vendors and enjoy their meals at their own pace. This independence reduces stress and lines, allowing groups to focus on socializing rather than coordinating meal timing. The open kitchen and counter-style ordering spark fun conversations about food choices and preparation, adding to the communal feel. Staff at HallPass aim to serve efficiently yet warmly, maintaining a balance between quick service and friendly interaction. This service approach empowers groups to customize their experience without the rigidity of traditional dining, perfect for gatherings where the highlight is connection rather than just food.
These detailed insights outline why Blaze of Thunder @ HallPass is a compelling choice for hosting friendly meetups or memorable family gatherings, combining diverse food offerings, a vibrant communal ambiance, and thoughtful amenities that nurture social interaction.