Bodega and The Rest: Salt Lake City's Hidden Gem for Food and Cocktails
Written and verified by the Rallyvite editorial team using publicly available data and the business’s official website. Last updated: 23 Dec 2025 20:45
TL;DR: Bodega and The Rest Cigar Lounge is One of the Best Group Outing Venues near Salt Lake City
Bodega and The Rest in Downtown Salt Lake City offers a unique and inviting atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends, whether for an intimate dinner or casual drinks. The establishment features two distinct but connected experiences: upstairs, Bodega serves as a lively bar with affordable shots, bottled beers, and handheld foods in a jovial setting, ideal for a relaxed gathering. Downstairs, The Rest reveals a hidden speakeasy-style restaurant with a secret entrance, requiring reservations and offering a cozy, intimate ambiance accentuated by a chic design and subtle rustic touches, creating an ideal backdrop for celebrations or special nights out. The culinary focus is on New American cuisine, emphasizing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients that blend traditional and contemporary cooking techniques. The food menu changes seasonally and includes standout dishes like Garden Toast, Pickled Onion Rings, mushroom toast, and entrees such as pan-seared scallops and Koji aged New York steak. Complementing the food, the cocktail menu is thoughtfully curated by expert mixologists, featuring creative, fresh, and well-balanced drinks—from classic concoctions to inventive signature cocktails like the Prescription Julep and Peachy Keen. This combination of exceptional food, artisanal cocktails, and an atmosphere that embodies Salt Lake City's vibrant spirit makes Bodega and The Rest a must-visit destination and an excellent meetup spot for friends seeking quality and ambiance.
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What people think of Bodega and The Rest, based on reviews
As of recent, Bodega and The Rest holds a 4.5-star rating based on 887 reviews.
Reviews of Bodega and The Rest reveal a strong positive consensus, with a 4.5-star rating based on nearly 900 reviews, highlighting its appeal as a culinary and social destination. Positive reviews often praise the creative and expertly crafted cocktails, noting the mixologists' skill and use of fresh, local ingredients. Many reviewers appreciate the cozy and intimate atmosphere, particularly in The Rest downstairs, with comments on the speakeasy vibe, elegant but inviting décor, and attentive service. The food garners commendation for its innovative flavors, quality ingredients, and diverse seasonal menu, with favorites including mushroom toast and the New York steak. Guests describe the experience as memorable and special, ideal for date nights or celebratory occasions. On the other hand, some negative points raised by reviewers include the challenge of gaining access to The Rest due to reservation requirements and a perceived higher price point, which some feel may be steep but justified by the quality and service. A few have mentioned that seating upstairs is limited, making reservations essential for a guaranteed spot downstairs. Overall, user feedback underscores Bodega and The Rest as a premier location in Salt Lake City for both food and drinks, where the unique ambiance and attentive care translate into a rewarding experience despite minor accessibility inconveniences.
How to reach Bodega and The Rest
331 Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, USA
FAQ about Bodega and The Rest, your new favorite meetup place for groups in Salt Lake City, Utah
This unique dual-venue experience in Salt Lake City offers the perfect blend of ambiance, exclusivity, and quality that few places can match. With an impressive 4.5-star rating based on 887 reviews, Bodega and The Rest stand out as an ideal spot to gather with your group. The moment you step into Bodega, you are welcomed by a lively atmosphere full of energy and charm, great for casual hangouts with friends. But the true magic unfolds as you gain access to The Rest, a hidden downstairs speakeasy with a secret-door entrance that feels like discovering a private, intimate world just for you and your companions. This place is more than just food and drinks; it’s an experience designed to foster connection and create lasting memories. Friendly service, expertly crafted cocktails, and an inviting atmosphere encourage guests to relax and savor their time together, making it the perfect rallying point for friends or family looking to celebrate, unwind, or just share quality time in a cozy yet vibrant setting.
The two venues complement each other beautifully. Upstairs at Bodega, you’ll find a welcoming bar scene with affordable shots, a good selection of beers, and tasty handheld food — ideal for larger groups who want to keep the experience casual and sociable. This area’s open and jovial vibe is perfect for groups to mingle, chat, and have an energetic start to their evening. Downstairs, The Rest offers a whole new dimension: a dark, intimate speakeasy space with a secret entrance that adds an element of adventure to your night out. This venue is more suited to smaller groups or intimate gatherings, where you can enjoy a fine dining experience alongside creative cocktails chosen from an expertly curated menu. Reservations are encouraged here, making it a sought-after spot that requires planning, but it’s worth it for the unique atmosphere steeped in character and charm. Your group can begin in Bodega for a casual vibe then transition downstairs to The Rest for a more exclusive and immersive experience.
The essence of the place is socializing over food and drinks, but the experiences go beyond that. At Bodega, you can indulge in lively conversations over craft cocktails or affordable beer selections, enjoy tapas-style dishes or share handheld snacks, and tap into a warm, energetic ambiance that fosters conversation and fun. The upstairs bar is perfect for groups that want to keep the night flexible and lively without the formality of full dining. When you’re ready for something more refined, your group can descend to The Rest, where the focus shifts to an elevated culinary and cocktail journey. Here, the food menu is seasonal and sophisticated, featuring unique dishes such as pan-seared scallops, Koji-aged New York steak, mushroom toast, and Green Goddess Caesar salad. The cocktails are inventive, with delightful creations like Peachy Keen, Borrowed Thyme, and the vintage-inspired Prescription Julep, all crafted by talented mixologists. The intimate, dimly lit setting with walls adorned with taxidermy and other quirky decor gives the room a hidden gem feel — perfect for groups who want to savor an exclusive, cozy atmosphere.
Atmosphere is often what sets great meet-up spots apart, and here it is clear that ambiance plays a starring role. Bodega’s upstairs environment is lively, bright, and welcoming, designed for people to gather casually and enjoy good music, drinks, and conversation in a warm setting. The vibe here encourages guests to linger, socialize, and feel at ease with friends. Whereas The Rest downstairs feels like stepping into a secret world — dim lighting, vintage decor, hidden behind a locked door — evoking the allure of a classic speakeasy with plenty of character. This contrast makes the combined experience compelling: start with the bustling energy upstairs, then slip into a more secluded, elegant vibe downstairs. This progression adds excitement and a unique flow to your meetup, making each part of the night memorable. Guests often comment on feeling like they discovered a hidden “secret” place, creating a sense of exclusivity and camaraderie within the group.
Drinks and food are at the core of any successful meet-up, and both venues deliver exceptionally. Bodega is known for its expertly crafted cocktails that combine classic techniques with creative twists, ensuring there’s something for every palate. Whether you prefer a light, refreshing cocktail or a strong, complex one, the mixologists here can deliver with flair. The upstairs bar’s selection of beers and affordable shots also allow for casual, spontaneous snack and drink pairing, great for groups who want variety without the formality. When you go downstairs to The Rest, the culinary offerings take center stage with thoughtful, seasonal dishes designed for sharing or individual indulgence. Tapas-style options invite groups to sample multiple dishes, and standout plates like mushroom toast and aged steaks are crowd-pleasers that elevate the dining experience. Dessert options such as strawberry beignets add a sweet finish. This focus on top-quality food paired with inventive cocktails makes both venues perfect for groups that appreciate a fine dining experience combined with fun and engaging drinks.
Excellent service can turn a good night into an unforgettable one, and Bodega and The Rest pride themselves on their attentive and friendly staff. Reviews frequently mention how servers enhance the experience by being personable, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring about guests’ enjoyment. Whether you’re navigating the secret entry into The Rest, ordering specialty cocktails, or asking for recommendations on dishes to share, staff members add a welcoming touch of professionalism and warmth. This kind of service makes a difference when you’re coordinating a group and want everything to go smoothly. The team’s readiness to encourage lingering and ensure you feel comfortable fosters a relaxed environment where your group can savor the moment without feeling rushed. This makes Bodega and The Rest great for celebrations, special occasions, or simply a memorable night out with friends or family.
Bodega and The Rest’s location in downtown Salt Lake City positions it perfectly as a convenient, urban hotspot for locals and visitors alike. Its central placement means easy access for groups coming from different parts of the city. Beyond location, the venues’ combined vibe is one-of-a-kind — a blend of secret speakeasy mystique and approachable bar culture. Few establishments in the city offer the intriguing option of a hidden door to a sophisticated dining room below a lively bar upstairs. This dual-concept venue caters to diverse group dynamics, from casual daytime get-togethers to special night celebrations. Their dedication to maintaining a balance of character, comfort, and creativity attracts a crowd looking for a genuine, not cookie-cutter, experience. The buzz around the place, fueled by glowing customer reviews, confirms it as a local favorite and a must-visit destination.
Yes, the unique nature of this establishment makes it well suited for hosting special gatherings such as birthdays, anniversaries, or milestone celebrations. The Rest’s exclusivity and ambiance create a memorable backdrop for intimate parties, while the upstairs bar at Bodega can accommodate larger, more casual groups and pre-parties. Their flexibility in offering two connected but distinct environments allows organizers to plan multi-phase events — starting lively and social upstairs and moving to a cozier, seated dinner atmosphere downstairs. With skilled service staff and a menu that pairs well with celebratory moods, your event here can feel effortless and tailored to your group’s needs. Advance reservations and communication with management can ensure your meetup runs smoothly, making Bodega and The Rest a great choice for not just casual hangouts but also meaningful occasions.
While some reviewers note that prices here reflect quality and ambiance, many agree that the price point matches the experience’s high level. The diverse menu options range from affordable snacks and drinks upstairs to pricier, but well-crafted dishes and cocktails downstairs. For groups looking for a cost-conscious outing, Bodega offers a casual bar environment with reasonable pricing, making an easy entry point. Meanwhile, The Rest elevates the outing for those willing to spend a bit more for a unique and intimate dining experience that feels like a special occasion. Groups can choose to mix and match according to their preferences and budgets. The food and drink quality, coupled with the unmatched vibe and excellent service, justify the price, resulting in a feel-good value for friends and families wanting to make the most of their time together.
Whether you want the relaxed yet vibrant feel of the upstairs bar or the secretive, elegant dining downstairs, the combination offers something truly special. Add in outstanding drinks, delicious food, friendly service, and a memorable atmosphere, and you have a standout location where your next gathering with friends or family can shine. This place doesn’t just host a night out — it creates an experience to rally around.