When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Johnny's SLC
Why Johnny's SLC is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Johnny's SLC, located at 165 E 200 S in Salt Lake City, is a popular neighborhood dive bar that draws a diverse crowd looking to unwind and socialize. Known for its vibrant and casual atmosphere, Johnny's offers an extensive beer selection with over 30 varieties and appealing drink prices, including budget-friendly options like $1.50 Coors Light cans. The venue features entertainment options such as five pool tables, shuffleboard, eight TVs, and regular live entertainment, making it an ideal place for friends to gather and enjoy a lively evening. Its outdoor patio adds an extra dimension, perfect for relaxing during warmer months. With a convenient city center location and a relaxed vibe, Johnny's SLC stands out as a welcoming spot for both locals and visitors seeking a friendly bar experience with great drinks and engaging entertainment.
Here's what people think of Johnny's SLC
As of recent, Johnny's SLC holds a 4-star rating based on 674 reviews.
Reviews for Johnny's SLC reflect a generally positive sentiment, with many patrons praising the venue's affordability, extensive beer list, and entertainment offerings. Positive reviews highlight the great beer selection, fun atmosphere, and well-maintained pool tables, describing Johnny's as a classic dive bar where one can enjoy cheap drinks and social games. Visitors also appreciate the casual vibe and the presence of live entertainment and outdoor seating, which add to the venue's appeal. However, some negative feedback points to inconsistent service, including moments when bartenders seemed inattentive or distracted, impacting the overall experience for some guests. A few reviewers noted the bar's changing dynamics, with shifts in clientele or management affecting the ambiance. Despite these critiques, the consensus remains that Johnny’s SLC is a laid-back and affordable place that successfully serves as a social hub. Overall, reviews suggest that while the bar occasionally faces service challenges, its combination of good prices, entertainment, and atmosphere makes it a favored destination in Salt Lake City's nightlife scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
ian morrison
Johnny's was the spot to shoot pool and hang out with everybody but it's changed a little bit over the last few years. Business must be good for the owner to not mind losing so many regulars. A lot of us go to twilite lounge now because of the service. It's a great bar and I love it except for the fact that management now doesn't mind if a bartender charges your card twice and adds their own tip.
Lyssa Marie
In the handful of times I've visited Johnny's it's been pretty great. Yes, it's loud. Yes, people suck at karaoke lol. And yes, the bartenders get busy some nights but omg they are humans! I love the trashcan, it's prolly my favorite drink. And bartenders have been so cool and they're just trying to run the business when people want their drinks quickly. The haters can go somewhere else, Johnny's is not that bad ❤️
Jeff Peterson
My best friend works here so I may be a little biased. I come here in the early pm so I can't speak to the night crowd but Johnny's has some cheap specials and what's not on draft then they have a decent selection of bottles and cans. From what I've heard, poker Saturdays are fun. If you want to watch sports there are quite a few TVs where they are playing and even a movie playing too. Bunch of pool tables to boot as well. If you're bougie then keep in mind that the bar is more akin to a dive bar so don't expect classy drinks or cocktails you'd find on an island resort.
Kyle Mussel
Bartenders refused to serve me and kicked me out because I didn’t tip after one drink. I planned on tipping later but I had little cash on me that night and was watching closely to see how much I can spend. It’s your job to serve alcohol whether you get tipped or not. They’re not even a good vibe nor are their personalities engaging so who would want to tip anyway. Tip to not get kicked out?
Trisha Ann Bell
Never been a huge fan of this place. Day or night and it hasn't really mattered what day of the week. The crowd is just not my type of crowd. Maybe the age group I am not sure. I just haven't really ever had a great vibe with this place. The service was ok but it always seems as though the bartenders have something else to do always avoiding eye contact when you go to order a drink. And when your drink is gone do yourself à favor and order a new one because if you wait for them to notice and ask, if you want another it will never happen.
How to reach Johnny's SLC
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Why Johnny's SLC may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Johnny’s SLC with your friends?
Johnny’s SLC stands out as the ideal spot to rally with your friends, offering a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere that invites connection and good times. As an all-accepting downtown Salt Lake City bar famous for its shot and beer specials, Johnny’s creates the perfect environment for groups looking to relax, catch up, and make memories together. Whether you are locals or visitors, the moment you step inside, the vibe encourages you to mingle, share laughs, and enjoy the company of old and new friends alike. Its affordable drink prices and $7 lunch specials make it easy on the wallet, allowing your group to spend more time enjoying yourselves and less worrying about the bill. The bartenders keep the energy lively and engaging, ensuring everyone feels taken care of and entertained. Add to this a strong sense of community and inclusion, highlighted by more than ten City Weekly awards, and Johnny’s SLC clearly positions itself as a top destination for any casual meetup or celebration. Whether you want to unwind after a long day or kick off a weekend night, Johnny’s passionate, down-to-earth spirit makes it a great choice to rally your friends around.
What activities are available at Johnny’s SLC for group meetups?
Johnny’s SLC offers a range of engaging activities perfect for groups seeking fun and interaction beyond just drinks. One of the main draws is the availability of four pool tables where friends can challenge each other or play casually, creating a social and competitive atmosphere well-suited to a group outing. Beyond pool, Johnny’s regularly hosts live local music, especially headlining great bands on Saturday nights, which provides an energetic soundtrack to your gathering and keeps the mood vibrant. The presence of games like cards and poker also offers another way for groups to bond over familiar competitive fun. On some nights, DJs keep the party going, giving the option for dancing or simply soaking in a lively ambiance. Johnny’s also features pinball and video games, which bring a nostalgic and playful twist to nights out and appeal to various interests within your group. And if you get hungry, the “Food Truck Patio” outside expands your dining choices beyond the bar's regular fare, allowing you to enjoy diverse street eats without leaving the venue. This variety of entertainment and activity choices ensures everyone in your group can find something fun to do, making Johnny’s an excellent venue for a multi-faceted social experience.
Why is Johnny’s SLC perfect for a group meetup?
Johnny’s SLC’s inclusive and friendly atmosphere makes it uniquely suited for group gatherings where the focus is on building connection and shared enjoyment. At its core, Johnny’s promotes the message that all people can come together, making it a space that welcomes diversity and encourages genuine interaction — a rare and valuable quality in nightlife venues. The location in downtown Salt Lake City adds to its convenience and appeal for urban meetups. The combination of affordable pricing—like $1.50 Coors Light cans and various special deals—and a solid menu of American comfort food ensures groups can enjoy satisfying meals and drinks without stress over costs. Furthermore, the staff at Johnny’s are known to be personable and attentive, integral in fostering a lively and comfortable environment while keeping things moving smoothly. From casual weekday nights to bustling weekend events, Johnny’s manages to balance low-key charm with excitement, making it versatile for nearly any kind of friend or family gathering. Whether you want to catch a game on TV, enjoy live music, or just chat around a pool table, Johnny’s SLC provides a space that encourages togetherness and memorable nights out.
What kind of food and drinks can groups expect at Johnny’s SLC?
Groups visiting Johnny’s SLC can expect a full menu of casual American favorites that complement their easygoing vibe, including sandwiches, wraps, subs, and pizza. This type of menu pleases groups by offering variety without complexity, perfect for sharing and informal dining. The combination of pub fare with solid bar snacks pairs well with their drinks offerings, which deliver excellent value and range. The bar features a notably large beer selection with some exceptionally low prices; for instance, cans of Coors Light are available for just $1.50, making it incredibly budget-friendly for group outings. Special shot and beer combos, celebrated as a signature offering of Johnny’s, add a fun and sociable element to ordering drinks as a team. The food truck patio expands culinary options further, especially later at night, allowing groups to indulge in a wider array of flavors and keep their energy up for extended socializing. This thoughtful blending of wallet-friendly quality food and drinks means everyone in your party can find something that suits their taste and budget, adding to the overall positive group experience.
What is the best time and occasion to host a meetup at Johnny’s SLC?
Johnny’s SLC is open daily from 11 AM until 2 AM, making it highly flexible for meetups at nearly any time of day or night. For groups looking for a casual lunch or early afternoon hangout, the $7 lunch specials provide a great value and a casual atmosphere to catch up before or after work. As evening rolls in, Johnny’s transforms into a lively nightspot where you can enjoy live music on Saturdays or a DJ spinning tunes on some weeknights. This makes it perfect for birthday celebrations, after-work gatherings, or weekend parties when everyone wants to relax and enjoy themselves. Sports fans will appreciate that Johnny’s puts on games and welcomes fans to cheer together while enjoying their affordable drinks. The food truck patio is especially popular on Thursday evenings, adding a festive and food-centric dimension to your gathering that pairs perfectly with outdoor socializing. This wide range of timing and activities means Johnny’s can accommodate various event types and group sizes, from intimate friend catch-ups to larger celebrations full of games, music, and food.
How does Johnny’s SLC create a community feel among diverse groups?
Johnny’s SLC is well-known for its all-accepting, welcoming environment that fosters a real sense of community among its patrons. The establishment actively promotes a philosophy where differences are celebrated and everyone can get along, making it a safe and comfortable space for people from all walks of life. This open-minded attitude attracts a diverse crowd, combining locals, newcomers, and visitors in one friendly gathering place. The staff play a crucial role by engaging patrons with a warm demeanor and skillful bartending that keeps the energy positive and convivial. Regular customers often join in playing pool or cards with visitors, making it easy for groups to blend into the social fabric of the bar. Repeated recognition with over 10 awards from City Weekly underscores Johnny’s success at nurturing this inclusive community culture. This approachable, family-like atmosphere is a major reason groups feel at home when rallying here, as it goes beyond simply serving drinks to creating meaningful human connections.
What makes Johnny’s SLC stand out compared to other bars in Salt Lake City?
Johnny’s SLC differentiates itself through its unique combination of affordability, inclusivity, and entertainment variety in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City. Unlike many bars that emphasize exclusivity or trendiness, Johnny’s embraces a welcoming dive bar identity that is approachable and unpretentious. Its specialty “shot and beer” deals have become legendary locally, enticing customers with cheap yet quality options that make nights out more accessible. The consistent mix of live local bands, DJs, and games such as pool, poker, and pinball creates a dynamic yet comfortable atmosphere unmatched by many competitors who focus narrowly on either food or drink. The establishment’s dedication to building an accepting community adds a stronger emotional appeal for guests seeking a genuine connection rather than just a night out. Rising above the crowded SLC nightlife scene, Johnny’s offers a well-rounded experience that balances entertainment, affordability, and local culture seamlessly—an unbeatable combination for groups looking for both fun and comfort under one roof.
How can groups maximize their experience when visiting Johnny’s SLC?
To maximize your group’s experience at Johnny’s SLC, plan your visit according to the activities that best suit your friends’ interests. For instance, if pool or video games are your group’s favorite, visiting during off-peak hours on weekdays might guarantee more table availability and less crowding. For music lovers, timing your meetup on a Saturday night is ideal to catch top local bands and soak in energetic live performances. Don’t miss out on the food truck patio, especially on Thursdays, which adds great variety and a festive food experience outside the bar’s core menu. Take advantage of the shot and beer specials early in the night to kick off your gathering affordably. Engaging with the friendly bartenders and regulars by chatting or joining in a game can elevate the social vibe and help your group feel integrated. Lastly, coordinating transportation and arriving as a group can streamline the meetup logistics and keep your party cohesive for a more memorable night. Planning ahead with these tips transforms Johnny’s SLC from just a bar into a dynamic, customized event space tailored to your group’s desires.