When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Emigration Cafe

Why Emigration Cafe is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Emigration Cafe, nestled in the Yalecrest neighborhood of Salt Lake City, stands out as a vibrant and welcoming all-day cafe perfect for meeting up with friends. Operated by the Pago Restaurant Group, this establishment offers casual breakfast and full-service lunch options that appeal to a broad range of tastes. The cafe prides itself on using a rotating selection of the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced from local purveyors, including high-quality meats, cheeses, and produce, which ensures flavorful and quality dining experiences. With a warm, neighborhood 'joint' atmosphere, Emigration Cafe encourages community spirit and togetherness, inviting guests to share meals, drinks, and conversations. One of its notable highlights is having arguably the best patio in the zip code, ideal for enjoying sunny days or relaxed evenings outdoors. This makes it an excellent venue for casual catch-ups or leisurely dining. Overall, its combination of quality food, inviting ambiance, and community focus positions Emigration Cafe as a standout spot to gather and celebrate the essence of the local area.
Here's what people think of Emigration Cafe
As of recent, Emigration Cafe holds a 4.3-star rating based on 296 reviews.
Reviews of Emigration Cafe show a generally positive impression with a solid 4.3-star rating based on nearly 300 reviews. Users commonly appreciate the cafe's welcoming atmosphere, emphasizing its role as a neighborhood gathering place where friends can comfortably meet. The quality of food, especially the fresh, seasonal ingredients and well-prepared dishes, receives frequent commendation, as does the variety in menu offerings suitable for breakfast and lunch. Reviewers also highlight the outstanding patio, which offers a pleasant outdoor dining experience and adds to the cafe's charm. Positive reviews note friendly and attentive service, contributing to an overall enjoyable experience. On the other hand, some negative remarks focus on occasional wait times or service inconsistencies during busy periods. A few users mention that certain menu items can be hit or miss depending on the day, and some have found pricing on the higher side for a casual cafe. Despite these critiques, the dominant sentiment remains favorable, with guests valuing the sense of community and quality food. The blend of positives and manageable negatives forms a solid consensus that Emigration Cafe is a reliable and enjoyable local spot to meet, dine, and relax.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
L.J. Deviny
First time visiting. So glad for the recommendation. Wonderful menu. Terrific beverages. Aimee was awesome. Loved the spinach artichoke appetizer and Baja Shrimp 🌮. Delicious 😋
Don Wynn
We are first time visitors to SLC and took a chance on the Emigration Cafe because to was close to our lodging. We are glad we did. The service, food and atmosphere were all good. There is a small parking lot and it was very convenient for us.
Jack Falkenrath
Jon was our server. He was very nice, but he seemed inexperienced. I was hoping to get breakfast but they had stopped serving most breakfast items before we got there. We ended up getting a Caesar salad with chicken and a Rueben sandwich with Cajun chowder soup. All the food was good but I don’t feel like it was worth the $56.94 we paid. The restaurant is nice looking, inside and outside.
K S
Excellent brunch, extra attentive and friendly service, in a great environment. We were able to celebrate Grandma's 95th here, with 20 people for brunch. The staff was excellent (even put her cake in the cooler for us) while we enjoyed our brunch. Drinks all came out extremely fast, and were all delicious. The food took about 15-20 minutes but was worth the wait. Highly recommend their lattes, Chicken & Biscuit, and burgers. Also the millionaire bacon is fantastic. We really appreciate the excellent service and great food, and will definitely be back.
Yvette Wise
My mother and I had breakfast this morning. Kennedy was our server and hostess. She was wonderful. Kennedy greeted us kindly and sat us immediately. Our food was delicious and the coffee was fantastic. Kennedy made my moms whole day by being personable, kind, and welcoming. Servers like that make a restaurant grand. Thank you.
How to reach Emigration Cafe
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Website: None

Why Emigration Cafe may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Emigration Cafe with your friends? Emigration Cafe in Salt Lake City is an ideal spot to gather with friends or family because it offers a warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages connection and conversation. The cafe’s reputation for delivering great food and exceptional service creates a relaxed environment where guests can feel at ease and focus on enjoying each other’s company. Its modern yet cozy design, combined with attentive, friendly staff, makes it a popular neighborhood hub. Whether you’re catching up over breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, the cafe’s diverse menu ensures there is something for everyone—ranging from hearty burgers to gluten-free options and flavorful pizzas. With a solid rating of 4.3 from nearly 300 reviews, it’s clear that other groups have found it a worthy destination. Plus, the outdoor seating area offers a refreshing option for gatherings when the weather is pleasant, allowing groups to socialize in a vibrant yet comfortable setting. Convenient street parking makes coming and going simple for everyone, which completes the package as a group-friendly venue that merges quality food, stellar service, and a welcoming atmosphere.
What activities does Emigration Cafe offer for group meetups? Emigration Cafe provides multiple opportunities for groups to enjoy their time together that go beyond just dining. For starters, the cafe's all-day breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu means you can plan your meetup for any time of the day. Groups can start with a casual breakfast featuring items like egg sandwiches or indulge in brunch classics while enjoying mimosas or coffee. For lunch or dinner, their signature items like the Bison Burger or mushroom pizza make for an enjoyable shared meal option. The food is designed to be crowd-pleasing but thoughtful, with gluten-free alternatives available, ensuring no one’s dietary preferences are left out. The cafe’s spacious seating arrangements, including an outdoor patio, can accommodate both small and larger groups comfortably, encouraging a lively yet intimate setting for conversations and celebrations. Also, the neighborhood vibe makes it suited for laid-back socializing or special occasions with friends or family. Beyond just food, the venue’s welcoming service helps groups feel valued, supporting a positive group dynamic. Whether it’s a casual catch-up or a celebratory gathering, the cafe offers a well-rounded experience that keeps groups coming back.
Why is Emigration Cafe perfect for group meetups? Emigration Cafe’s ambient setting and versatile offerings make it a standout choice for hosting groups. Firstly, the location benefits from a convenient parking situation that relieves one common stress point when gathering larger numbers. This ease of access makes it simple for everyone to arrive without hassle. The cafe itself boasts a layout that balances cozier nooks with larger communal tables, allowing groups of different sizes to find a comfortable spot to gather. Many reviewers highlight the friendly, community-driven atmosphere, which enhances any meetup by promoting a welcoming space where everyone feels at home. The menu’s breadth means that everyone can find something appealing — from meat lovers to vegetarians and gluten-free diners — which is essential for accommodating diverse tastes within a group. Additionally, the outdoor seating is great for those who enjoy fresh air and the chance to people watch or enjoy the neighborhood vibe during warmer months. The professional yet casual environment is ideal for both informal gatherings and slightly more upscale meetups, providing flexibility for various group needs.
What dining options are especially good for groups at Emigration Cafe? The cafe’s diverse menu caters exceptionally well to groups by combining shared dishes with ample individual choices. The Bison Burger and mushroom pizza are particularly recommended and can be easily shared or enjoyed individually, making them ideal for casual group dining. The menu also features classic sandwiches such as the Smoked Turkey Club or the chicken sandwich with unique house-made elements like smoked chili honey, pleasing a variety of palates. For groups that include children or individuals with specific dietary requirements, there are kid-friendly items and gluten-free options, ensuring inclusivity. Sides and desserts can turn a simple meal into a more festive occasion, encouraging sharing and tasting multiple flavors within the group. The availability of breakfast, lunch, and dinner items throughout the day means groups can plan meetups around meals or enjoy flexible timing, whether it’s a mid-morning gathering or an early evening dinner. Overall, the food quality, creativity, and range enable Emigration Cafe to comfortably serve groups with different tastes and dining preferences.
How does Emigration Cafe support a relaxed and enjoyable social experience? Beyond the food, Emigration Cafe’s service style and setting foster a social environment that encourages conversation and togetherness. Many patrons appreciate the friendly, attentive staff who help create a positive vibe by making guests feel welcome and cared for. This level of service makes a difference for groups who want to focus on socializing without distractions. The outdoor patio adds a layer of charm and comfort, offering a relaxed space where groups can enjoy fresh air and sunshine, which is especially invaluable for larger gatherings or those who prefer a more open setting. The cafe’s design and lighting further support a cozy yet vibrant feeling that stimulates interaction. Because it’s a neighborhood favorite, there’s a sense of belonging and familiarity that enhances group cohesion. The flexible hours, opening from early morning until 10 PM every day, also give groups the freedom to choose a time that suits their schedules and preferences for socializing.
What practical aspects make Emigration Cafe a convenient meetup spot? Convenience plays a major role when choosing a place for group gatherings, and Emigration Cafe delivers on several practical fronts. Its location in Salt Lake City includes street parking that reduces the usual hassle of finding spots in busy areas. This accessibility encourages punctuality and ease for all attendees. The cafe accepts credit cards, speeding up transactions for group bills and simplifying payment logistics. While reservations are not strictly necessary, they are recommended during peak times to avoid waiting, which is an important consideration when coordinating group events. The availability of highchairs means families with young children are well accommodated, making it a family-friendly choice. These practical features complement the cafe’s warm environment and excellent food to create a well-rounded meeting place that handles the details so groups can focus on enjoying their time together.
In summary, Emigration Cafe stands out as an excellent venue for friends and families seeking a welcoming, comfortable, and deliciously satisfying meeting place. Its combination of high-quality food, inclusive menu options, friendly service, and a versatile indoor-outdoor space offers a unique and inviting experience for group gatherings. Whether hosting a casual brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply catching up after a long time, Emigration Cafe is designed to support memorable, enjoyable moments together.