When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Laurel Brasserie & Bar
Why Laurel Brasserie & Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Laurel Brasserie & Bar, located within the luxurious Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City, offers a beautifully crafted dining experience that combines elegant Parisian-style ambiance with American culinary finesse. The restaurant is a perfect spot for meeting friends, whether for a leisurely brunch, a sophisticated dinner, or a convivial happy hour. Its renovation gives it the feel of a Parisian café, providing a stylish yet welcoming atmosphere. The menu features standout dishes like butter-basted rotisserie chicken with frites, a rich rigatoni Bolognese, and classic American breakfast items such as Eggs Benedict and Lemon Ricotta Pancakes. Prices remain reasonable despite the upscale setting, with most entrees under $30, making it an accessible venue for both locals and visitors looking for a special night out. The combination of exquisite decor, attentive service, and a diverse menu highlights its appeal as a consistent favorite in Salt Lake City’s dining scene.
Here's what people think of Laurel Brasserie & Bar
As of recent, Laurel Brasserie & Bar holds a 4.4-star rating based on 755 reviews.
Reviews of Laurel Brasserie & Bar highlight the consistently excellent service and food quality alongside the refined atmosphere. Positive feedback emphasizes the attentive and professional staff, exemplified by servers going above and beyond to enhance the dining experience, and a beautifully executed menu offering both classic and innovative dishes. Praise often highlights the Sunday brunch traditions, which have evolved to become even more enjoyable after recent renovations. The food is noted for its consistent quality, including perfectly cooked rotisserie chicken and a deeply flavorful Bolognese rigatoni. Patrons also appreciate the reasonable prices given the luxurious setting, with no entrees reaching above $30, making it a great value for a high-end restaurant. On the other hand, some reviews mention that the brunch buffet has fewer options than in pre-COVID times, which some patrons may notice, but this has not detracted significantly from the overall experience. The general consensus is that Laurel Brasserie & Bar offers an elevated yet accessible dining experience, combining exquisite ambiance, delicious food, and excellent service to become a beloved local staple.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Irene Eng
Won't return: food isn't not fresh. It's convenient, directly opposite our hotel, Little America, and sort of reminds me of the Palm Court @ Plaza in NYC. It was empty at 9:45am on a Monday (May 9th). Bright, high ceiling, fresh single tulips, linen napkins, elegant coffee cups. Two styles of interesting lighting features are interesting. The bagel and lox looks good but the cream chees isn't fresh. The outdoor section is full of flowers.
Mrs C
It was such an amazing and memorable Mother’s day celebration for me. The food was delectable. The service crews are attentive and friendly. I so love the outdoor setting. I will surely go back!
Nicholas Couch
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This wasn’t our first visit to Laurel Brasserie & Bar, and it was every bit as exceptional. We were seated promptly outside on their stunning patio under a beautiful pergola—the setting alone feels like a hidden gem in the heart of Salt Lake City. Our server, Ermies, was outstanding. His enthusiasm, professionalism, and genuine care made the entire experience smooth and enjoyable. He walked us through their updated menu with confidence and helpful recommendations. The food? Incredible. I went with the burger on a toasted bun paired with crispy sweet potato fries and a flavorful dipping sauce—it was cooked to absolute perfection. My wife opted for the same burger protein-style (lettuce wrap), with regular fries and a fresh side salad. Everything was so fresh, well-seasoned, and generously portioned without being overwhelming. From start to finish, this place continues to deliver on all levels—ambiance, service, and quality. Can’t wait to come back again!
Lost Rose
I have been staying nearby at a different hotel but have been back to Laurel Brasserie 4 times in the last 4 days….The food and service has been excellent every visit but, if I’m honest I have been obsessed with their cocktail program and bar staff, simply put they are superlative. Today specifically both Carina and Amber were working and both seemed to go above and beyond to provide an excellent experience. Amber, has helped me on a few of my last visits and consistently makes some of the best cocktails I have ever had and was even willing to let me order off menu and come up with a new drink on the spot. You will not be disappointed here. Thank you to all the staff, but a special shout out to Amber. I will be back every time I’m in town.
Christeyne Phan
We are visiting from Texas. This restaurant came up as a suggestion on my Facebook feeds. The menu looked very good and had nice options. We booked a reservation. A credit card was required but no charge was applied. This restaurant is in a hotel which was nicely decorated. We were seated promptly and We ordered several appetizers. Each one was so good. French onion soup, steamed mussels & clams, butternut squash arancini, grilled utah peach & burrata. We also ordered the tuna tartare but we dis not enjoy it as much as the others. The tomato in the tartare was not a good addition to us. The customer service was outstanding. Our server Cylea was very friendly and attentive. She was so nice and answered all of our questions. For our meal we had the pan seared branzino, pork chop, scottish salmon. The pork chop was dry unfortunately. If you prefer salmon to be cooked a certain way like medium or medium rare, be sure to let your server know or it might be cooked more that your liking. Overall we had a great experience and do recommend dining at this establishment. We were celebrating a 56th birthday and recommend a complimentary dessert which was very nice. It was a much appreciated gesture. The birthday boy got to choose and went with the Grand American bread pudding and it was the best bread pudding we have ever had. The flavor was excellent and the top was nice and crispy. Get the dessert!
How to reach Laurel Brasserie & Bar
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Why Laurel Brasserie & Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Laurel Brasserie & Bar with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Laurel Brasserie & Bar in downtown Salt Lake City is an exceptional choice for many reasons. This vibrant, European-inspired dining spot offers a unique blend of elegance and comfort, making it an ideal setting for socializing and celebration. The restaurant is housed within the prestigious Grand America Hotel, which adds an air of sophistication to your outing without sacrificing warmth or approachability. With a solid 4.4-star rating from over 750 reviews, this locale clearly resonates with guests seeking quality food, attentive service, and a stylish atmosphere. Whether you want a lively brunch, a relaxed lunch, a happy hour filled with craft cocktails, or an intimate dinner, Laurel provides a versatile space suited to all occasions. The interior design is both modern and cozy, featuring flower-shaped lights, wicker cane chairs, and artistic black-and-white sketches that create an inviting ambiance conducive to conversation and camaraderie. Moreover, the friendly and attentive staff enhance every visit with thoughtful touches, ensuring your group feels cared for from start to finish. This combination of atmosphere, service, and excellent culinary offerings makes Laurel Brasserie & Bar a prime rallying point for friends looking to enjoy memorable experiences together.
What activities can groups enjoy at Laurel Brasserie & Bar?
Laurel Brasserie & Bar offers a diverse range of activities perfect for groups looking to spend time together in a dynamic setting. Starting the day with a group breakfast or a hefty brunch is a popular choice, particularly with their famous Sunday brunch buffet that features everything from seafood to sweets, paired with live music that adds an energetic yet relaxing vibe. Guests often engage in playful games, such as guessing upcoming songs played by the house band, which creates a fun, communal atmosphere. Throughout the day, the space’s layout—with its double-sided bar—encourages mingling and social drinking, highlighting cocktails made with local Utah spirits, including the iconic Laurel Leaf Old Fashioned. Happy Hour is another group-favorite activity, offering smaller bites and innovative takes on classic dishes, such as their highly praised French onion soup simmered over 24 hours and topped with toasted Gruyère. Beyond dining, the beautifully designed interior provides a wonderful backdrop for conversations, celebrations, or informal meetups. The warmth of the service and the lively, stylish environment make it an excellent spot to catch up, celebrate milestones, or simply enjoy each other's company.
Why is Laurel Brasserie & Bar perfect for a group meetup?
Laurel Brasserie & Bar is uniquely suited for group meetups because it balances upscale dining with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that appeals to diverse tastes and moods. The spaciousness of the dining area and the thoughtful interior design make it easy for groups to find comfortable seating arrangements, whether for intimate conversations or festive gatherings. The restaurant’s culinary offerings—crafted with French and Italian influences—cater to a variety of palates, making it easy to please everyone in your party with standout dishes like the pumpkin arancini and seasonal mushroom tartlet. Additionally, the beverage program is robust, featuring both classic cocktails and innovative drinks made with local spirits, which adds a touch of regional flavor and uniqueness to the experience. Laurel’s location within The Grand America Hotel also brings a sense of special occasion and prestige without being overly formal, so groups can celebrate casually or dress up for more formal events. The impeccable service ensures the needs of larger parties are well met, from timely food delivery to accommodating special requests. This level of attention enhances the ease and enjoyment of gathering with friends, making Laurel a dependable choice for any group event.
What kind of food and drinks make Laurel Brasserie & Bar stand out for a group?
The food and drinks at Laurel Brasserie & Bar distinguish it as a premier gathering spot through their quality, creativity, and the variety they offer. The menu, influenced by European brasserie traditions, features well-prepared classics alongside inventive dishes. Groups tend to gravitate toward shareable starters like the pumpkin arancini—rice balls with a delicate pumpkin flavor paired with a subtle spicy aioli—and the wild mushroom tartlet, which showcases seasonal ingredients on a flaky, buttery crust. These appetizers set the tone for a meal with layers of flavor and refinement. Their French onion soup, simmered for more than 24 hours and capped with toasted Gruyère cheese, is a house staple that consistently earns rave reviews and is perfect for sharing among friends. On the drink side, the double-sided bar is a centerpiece for socializing, offering cocktails that highlight Utah-made spirits such as Beehive barrel-aged gin, in a menu that balances honesty to tradition with inventive twists like the Laurel Leaf Old Fashioned. Happy Hour specials encourage groups to sample a range of smaller plates and drinks without feeling rushed. Altogether, the food and drink options are thoughtfully curated to inspire communal enjoyment and discovery.
How does the ambiance and setting at Laurel enhance group experiences?
The ambiance at Laurel Brasserie & Bar is a fundamental part of why it works so well for group gatherings. The restaurant’s design integrates modern and traditional aesthetics: bright, airy spaces with ample natural light contrast with intimate lighting elements such as flower-shaped light fixtures, creating a balance of openness and coziness. Seating includes comfortable wicker cane chairs and stylish tables arranged to encourage interaction without overcrowding. The presence of black-and-white artistic sketches on the walls adds an elegant yet playful touch that guests can appreciate and discuss. Music, especially during brunch and evenings, is a feature that enlivens the environment without overwhelming conversation, striking a perfect balance for socializing. The bar area, with its double-sided design, serves as a social hub within the space, allowing guests to watch cocktails being crafted and flexibly move between seating zones. Combined with attentive service from a staff known for warmth and professionalism, the sophisticated yet inviting setting encourages groups to relax, linger, and enjoy each other’s company in style.
What makes Laurel Brasserie & Bar a unique option compared to other meetup spots in Salt Lake City?
Laurel Brasserie & Bar stands out in Salt Lake City’s dining and social scene by elevating the group meetup experience to something both special and accessible. Unlike purely casual spots or overly formal restaurants, Laurel strikes a perfect middle ground that suits a broad range of occasions, from casual friend get-togethers to celebratory family meals or sophisticated social nights. Its location inside the iconic Grand America Hotel provides guests with a prestigious backdrop without the intimidation or stiffness often associated with luxury hotels. The European brasserie concept introduces a culinary style and atmosphere that is somewhat rare in the region—combining the best of French and Italian influences in food, drinks, and ambiance. The cocktail program’s focus on Utah-crafted spirits highlights local craftsmanship, offering guests a taste of the area's culture within a refined context. Additionally, the restaurant has invested in creating an environment where all ages and group sizes feel welcome, with attentive service that anticipates group needs and fosters a seamless flow from arrival to departure. For these reasons, Laurel is an exceptional choice for those looking to rally friends and family in a memorable, top-tier space in the heart of Salt Lake City.