When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
From Scratch
Why From Scratch is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
From Scratch, boasting a solid 4.3-star rating based on nearly 1,700 reviews, stands out as a welcoming destination for friends to meet and share memorable experiences. Its appeal lies not only in the quality of its offerings but also in the inviting ambiance that encourages socializing and connection. Whether for casual catch-ups or special occasions, From Scratch offers a comfortable environment that blends charm with functionality. Highlights of the venue include thoughtfully prepared menu items that cater to diverse tastes, fostering a sense of community through shared food and drink. The layout and seating arrangements promote group interaction, making it easy to relax and engage in conversation. Additionally, the staff at From Scratch are noted for their friendly and attentive service, further enhancing the overall experience for visitors. Altogether, From Scratch balances quality, atmosphere, and service to create an ideal setting where friends can gather reliably and enjoyably.
Here's what people think of From Scratch
As of recent, From Scratch holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1693 reviews.
User reviews of From Scratch reflect a generally positive reception, with many patrons valuing the quality of the food and the ambiance as key strengths. Positive reviews often highlight the freshness of dishes described as made with care, the warm and cordial staff who go out of their way to accommodate guests, and the comfortable, cozy environment that invites lingering and conversation. Many customers appreciate the consistency of experience and how the venue caters well to groups, making it a preferred spot for social gatherings. Conversely, some negative reviews point to occasional issues such as longer wait times during busy periods and variability in food presentation or portion sizes. A few users have mentioned that service can sometimes be slower than expected or that the noise level might affect quieter conversations. Nonetheless, these critiques appear in the minority, and many customers still regard From Scratch as a dependable and pleasant meeting place. In conclusion, the overall sentiment from reviews suggests that From Scratch is highly regarded as a social venue that successfully combines good food, a welcoming atmosphere, and attentive service, making it a great option for friends seeking a convivial spot to meet.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Andrew Land
We were very happy to try From Scratch during our recent trip to SLC. I feel this is a great choice for anyone looking for a good meal in the city. They have a wide range of homemade options, all which were enjoyable. We started with the risotto cake, which had a really great red pepper sauce 8.7/10 The beet salad was another good choice with lots of beets and a great vinaigrette dressing 8.5/10. We also started with the three meat pizza, which was alright. I found the dough to be a little plain and left a little to be desired 6.5/10. For entrees we had the from scratch burger with pulled pork added. This had to be one of the better burgers I have had, great amount of toppings and flavor 9.5/10. The fries also stood out, homemade with the right amount of seasoning 9/10. We also had the braised short rib, which were average. The ribs themselves were a little fatty and didn’t have a whole lot of meat on them. The mashed potatoes were plain and the stand of the dish were the carrots 6/10. We look forward to stopping back for the salad and the burger next time we are in town! All in all, we were happy with our meal and this spot has a good atmosphere and lots of great food choices.
Marcus Williams Jr
This place is impressive. Very fresh food and a decent amount of options. Pictured is the steak with vegetables and mashed potatoes, with fries for the table. Portion size of the entree was pretty small, but still very flavorful. The service was excellent with great cocktail recommendations and options, which can be hard to find at times in the SLC valley.
Lana Jablonowski
Chairs are extremely uncomfortable. I noticed people from other tables switching them out to find a more comfortable chair but they are all terrible. I got the brussel sprout appetizer. It was a huge serving and super delicious. I got the prosciutto pesto pizza it was pretty good. My husband got the pastrami burger. The pastrami part was very good. The burger patty was very dry. His sweet potato fries were good. Our drinks remained empty for most of our meal.
Mark Taylor
We got our food to go. Which ended up being a good thing because when we got there at 5 o’clock on a Friday there was an hour and a half wait for a table. I don’t know if that’s the usual but this place is popular. It’s not a huge restaurant. I think it seats about 140. It’s in a nice area of Salt Lake in the Gallivan Center. It would be cool to come eat here during the winter when the ice-skating rink is going. We got the barbecue chicken pizza and the veggie pizza and they were both excellent. The crust is great and the toppings are fresh and really flavorful good. I got a hamburger and it was really big. It’s quite a meal, but it’s a good burger. My daughter got the pulled pork sandwich and again it’s very large. The fries were really good as well. I don’t know if it’s worth an hour and a half wait but it is worth going to. The food is good.
brandon jablonowski
Great location, staff friendly. I got the Pastrami burger, the meat was lean so it was very dry and over cooked to me. I prefer some 80-20, this Patty was incredibly dry. My wife and I both didn't finish it. The sweet potato fries are on point, excellent with the ranch. I was disappointed in the service, my drink pretty much stayed empty, the chairs are terrible but that also could be related to me being a very big guy. My butt was hurting after only 5 minutes. Anyways I wouldn't recommend.
How to reach From Scratch
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Why From Scratch may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at From Scratch with your friends? From Scratch is an exceptional choice for gathering with friends due to its unique blend of a relaxed atmosphere, open kitchen concept, and outstanding food quality that elevates any social outing. Whether you're seeking a casual hangout spot or a more lively dining experience, this restaurant offers a vibe that naturally encourages conversation and connection. The open kitchen design means you and your friends can watch your food being prepared, adding a dynamic, interactive element to your visit. This setup sparks interest and creates a shared experience beyond just the meal itself. Additionally, the menu's focus on fresh, homemade dishes crafted with quality ingredients guarantees that everyone in your group will find something delicious to enjoy. Customers frequently praise not only the food but also the warm and inviting ambiance, making it a perfect locale for meeting up with friends or family. The combination of excellent food, a friendly atmosphere, and a visually engaging kitchen makes From Scratch a destination where groups can relax, celebrate, and make memorable moments together.
What activities and experiences make From Scratch perfect for a group meetup? From Scratch offers a variety of features conducive to groups looking to spend quality time together. The restaurant’s casual vibe and comfortable seating arrangements, including indoor and outdoor options during warmer months, accommodate different group sizes and preferences. Watching the chefs at work in the open kitchen, especially near the wood-fire grill where their signature pizzas are crafted, adds an entertaining element to the dining experience. Guests have the opportunity to linger over hand-made pizzas with perfectly chewy, soft crusts topped with high-quality ingredients, or enjoy a range of other dishes like the renowned risotto cakes or the egg burger, which blends hearty flavors with creative flair. This makes it easy for groups with diverse tastes to satisfy everyone. Furthermore, From Scratch prides itself on its well-curated drink menu, including a selection for beer enthusiasts. This creates a lively, convivial environment that encourages sharing and trying new flavors together. The combination of great food, drinks, and a social atmosphere effectively turns any visit into a festive group event.
Why is From Scratch’s food experience notable for group dining? The culinary offerings at From Scratch have earned widespread acclaim, providing a standout experience that complements the social setting perfectly. The food is made fresh daily using high-quality, often locally sourced ingredients that highlight simple yet expertly prepared comfort foods. Popular choices among patrons include the fennel sausage pizza, made on a chewy, wood-fired crust, and house-made pasta dishes showcasing homemade noodles. Appetizers like the risotto cake offer unique, memorable flavors with a savory character and a slight roasted red bell pepper kick that diners rave about. Additionally, indulgent dessert options such as bread pudding and tiramisu serve as a perfect sweet ending for a group meal. This attention to both flavor and quality ensures that everyone leaves satisfied, elevating From Scratch beyond a typical group dining venue to a place of genuine culinary discovery and enjoyment.
How does the atmosphere and service at From Scratch enhance group meetups? The ambiance at From Scratch supports relaxed socializing with friends and family, characterized by a “quaint but industrial” look that’s both modern and inviting. The casual setting eliminates pressure, allowing groups to unwind fully and focus on their gathering. Many guests love the open kitchen view, creating a sense of connectivity between patrons and chefs that sparks curiosity and conversation. Seating is generally fast, and the service, while sometimes noted as having some delays, typically complements the overall experience with friendly, attentive staff who engage well when present. Such an environment helps groups feel comfortable and welcomed. The availability of outdoor dining during suitable weather also adds flexibility and a refreshing change of scene, perfect for larger gatherings or those wanting a bit of fresh air during their meal.
What logistical conveniences make From Scratch a practical venue for group gatherings? Located in downtown Salt Lake City, From Scratch enjoys a prime spot that’s easily accessible by car with available street parking nearby, making it simple for a group to converge from different parts of the city. Its somewhat tucked-away yet conveniently placed setting ensures it avoids excessive noise or rush, preserving an intimate atmosphere for your gathering. Reservations or arriving early can help groups secure seating quickly during busy times—a method that many patrons recommend to ensure smooth entry. The restaurant’s size accommodates moderate group sizes comfortably without feeling overcrowded or rushed. Combined with reasonable pricing and a well-balanced menu, From Scratch offers an excellent mix of convenience and quality, important factors when planning a pleasurable outing with friends or family.
How does From Scratch cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences? One of the hallmarks of From Scratch is its versatile menu, thoughtfully designed to please a variety of palates and preferences within a group. Whether guests crave traditional comfort foods like burgers and steak or are seeking lighter, healthier options such as fresh salads and vibrant vegetable dishes, the kitchen delivers consistently. Unique offerings like the smoked cheddar egg burger or a crisp honey apple salad add options for adventurous eaters as well. The kitchen’s focus on fresh, from-scratch cooking means that dishes can often be customized or adapted, reflecting an understanding of dietary needs including gluten sensitivities or vegetarian choices. This flexibility encourages group members with differing tastes or restrictions to all find something enjoyable without compromising on flavor or quality, fostering an inclusive dining experience.
What makes the drink selection at From Scratch appealing for groups? From Scratch recognizes that great drinks complement great food, especially when hosting a social meetup. The restaurant offers a well-curated beer menu that appeals to craft beer enthusiasts, providing a range of hoppy, flavorful options that pair beautifully with the robust flavors of their pizzas and hearty entrees. Additionally, there are thoughtfully selected wines and classic cocktails that provide variety for a group, ensuring that beverage preferences are well served. Whether the group wants to toast with a cold beer, enjoy a sophisticated wine with dinner, or savor handcrafted cocktails, From Scratch delivers options that enhance the overall dining experience. This comprehensive drink menu encourages social sharing and tasting, creating a convivial atmosphere for raising glasses and celebrating together.
How do regular customers describe the From Scratch experience with friends? Feedback from repeat diners often highlights From Scratch’s warm, inviting atmosphere and consistently delicious food as prime reasons they return with friends. Many customers mention enjoying the casual yet somewhat upscale vibe, perfect for both low-key get-togethers and celebratory outings. Patrons appreciate being able to sit indoors or outdoors, watch the kitchen in action, and explore a menu full of creative dishes and comfort food staples. The restaurant’s commitment to quality shines through in positive reviews that often mention returning specifically for standout items like the fennel sausage pizza or the risotto cake appetizer. While some critique service speed, the overall sentiment remains highly positive thanks to the food’s excellence and the restaurant’s welcoming environment. This makes From Scratch a trusted choice for anyone looking to host enjoyable meetups with family or friends in a relaxed setting.
In what ways does From Scratch’s design and layout support group dynamics? The architectural and interior design of From Scratch adds a subtle but important dimension to group meetups. Its “quaint industrial” design juxtaposes rustic textures with modern touches that create an aesthetically pleasing environment conducive to long conversations and social bonding. The open kitchen provides an engaging focal point that naturally draws groups together around their shared experience of watching meal preparation. Layout options include tables suited for groups, seating at the bar for smaller parties wanting a more interactive experience, and cozy corners that encourage intimate talks. This diverse setup fosters connection by allowing groups to either blend into the larger dining room or carve out a semi-private space, depending on their mood and number. In all, the spatial design supports different social rhythms that groups naturally cycle through during a visit.
Why is From Scratch considered a top choice for anyone seeking a friendly, quality-focused dining spot for groups? From Scratch has built a reputation on prioritizing both food quality and guest experience, making it one of Salt Lake City’s favored destinations for group dining. Its commitment to fresh, handmade food crafted in view of customers sets it apart as a place where culinary passion meets approachable hospitality. The warm, casual atmosphere balances comfort with specialty touches like wood-fired pizzas and unique appetizers that appeal broadly. Guests often remark on how this combination helps everyone in a group feel valued—whether they come for a quick pizza, a substantial meal, or dessert and drinks. The result is a welcoming venue that embodies the spirit of gathering and sharing, perfect for friends or families wanting a memorable meal together without fuss or pretense.
From these attributes, it is clear that From Scratch is not just another restaurant—it is a thoughtfully curated space and experience designed to enhance group gatherings with excellent food, engaging ambiance, and attentive service in the heart of Salt Lake City. Whether reconnecting with old friends or celebrating special occasions with family, From Scratch provides the culinary and social ingredients necessary for a successful and enjoyable meet-up.