When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Mi Buena Vida
Why Mi Buena Vida is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Mi Buena Vida is an inviting and vibrant Mexican restaurant located in Salt Lake City's 15th & 15th neighborhood, offering an upscale dining atmosphere with approachable prices. The restaurant occupies the space formerly home to The Paris and Trattoria di Francesco but has completely transformed into a warm, welcoming spot that blends modern Mexican flavors with a lively environment. One of the highlights upon arrival is a complimentary bowl of house-made corn tortilla chips paired with freshly made salsa roja, establishing the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Mexican staples. The menu features classic and inventive dishes, including a variety of enchiladas with options such as steak, portobello, chicken, shredded beef, carnitas, or shrimp, all served with rice and beans and accompanied by a choice of flavorful sauces like tomatillo, mole, or queso. Mi Buena Vida also has a salsa bar boasting numerous salsa and condiment options, perfect for those who enjoy variety and customization. The restaurant caters to families with a kids’ menu and finishes meals with tempting desserts such as flan, fresh churros with dulce de leche and chocolate sauce, and cake horchata. The combination of delicious cuisine, attentive service, and a beautifully designed interior makes Mi Buena Vida an excellent destination for friends to gather, indulge in authentic Mexican dishes, and enjoy a festive yet relaxed dining experience.
Here's what people think of Mi Buena Vida
As of recent, Mi Buena Vida holds a 4.5-star rating based on 365 reviews.
Many diners praise Mi Buena Vida for its outstanding food quality and vibrant atmosphere. Positive reviews highlight the house-made chips and rich, smoky salsas that accompany the meals, enhancing the overall dining experience. Patrons especially commend signature dishes like the Chiles en Nogada, stuffed with pork, mango, walnuts, and strawberries with a light walnut cream sauce, which delivers a balanced blend of flavors and textures. The salsa bar with its wide selection of sauces receives frequent mention as a standout feature, alongside the generous serving sizes and tasty margaritas. Guests appreciate the friendly and attentive service that complements the delicious food and charming ambiance. On the other hand, a few negative comments relate to occasional inconsistencies such as rice served less tender than preferred and some critical opinions about certain dishes or the overall experience not meeting all expectations. One notably critical review compared it unfavorably to fast-food options, although this perspective appears to be in the minority. Overall, reviews paint a picture of Mi Buena Vida as a popular and beloved Mexican eatery known for its flavorful dishes, warm atmosphere, and excellent value, making it a recommended spot for locals and visitors alike seeking an enjoyable meal with friends or family.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Whitney Webb
100% returning to eat here. Ordered the fish tacos and loved every bite. Especially because I added a different salsa each time. The hostess was great, sharing her favorites from the salsa bar. Combine the mango and berry salsa!
Emily Bilodeau
1,000/5 this place is incredible. The ambience, the service, the food! Everything was perfect and very intentional in my opinion. Sam helped us and she was like a Disney princess, so kind so caring and an absolute joy to be around! I googled “margaritas near me” and this came up somehow I’ve never heard of it, but I believe it’s my new favorite restaurant! Whoever designed this restaurant I want to design my house. I got a frozen strawberry margarita, which was amazing and clearly made to Order! My boyfriend got the agua de jamaica and it had dried Hibiscus flour on top which was absolutely beautiful and it tasted very fresh and homemade. Their chips were really good, and I liked their salsa selection. He got the chili Verde burrito and I got the taco platter with a bean and cheese taco and a shrimp taco, they were both exquisite. All of the employees were lovely and kind, we got the churro beignets to go, and I’m sure they’re going to be amazing! On Tuesdays, they do eight dollar margaritas! Also, the prices here are insane. They are so good. It’s like 2018 prices.
Kimo Kahookele
We visited Mi Buena Vida on a Wednesday night and had an incredible experience. No wait, and we lucked out with a perfect corner window seat—watching the rain outside added to the ambiance in the best way. The food? Absolutely fantastic. We started with the shrimp ceviche, and the mint and cilantro dressing took it to another level—so fresh and flavorful! Our Cadillac margaritas were the perfect pairing. For mains, I had the shrimp enchiladas with their mole sauce—rich, complex, and just the right kick (though I’m a bit of a wimp with spice). My other half had the beef tacos, and wow—the portion was generous, and the flavors were spot on. One of the fun extras here is their salsa bar, a must-visit! It’s great for adding extra flavors to your meal or enhancing the complimentary chips and salsa. So many delicious options to explore. Beyond the amazing food, the service was top-notch. Our waitress was so friendly, attentive, and made us feel welcome from start to finish. Even though we were stuffed, we couldn’t pass up dessert. We got flan and tres leches cake to go, and they packaged it beautifully. The flan was silky smooth, with the perfect balance of flavor and a side of fresh whipped cream. The tres leches was just as incredible, with a fresh strawberry garnish that added the perfect touch. If I could give this place six stars, I would. Can’t wait to come back!
Elliot R
This was a fun place to eat. On a weekday afternoon it was not busy and our service was excellent. We had enchiladas and fish tacos as well as ceviche appetizer. All flavors were really bright and delicious. We will definitely be back.
Travis Flitton
Great food and an awesome salsa bar there isn't anything that was too spicy. I tried all of the hot salsa and sauces and they were very well balanced with sweet and spicy. The berry one is particularly good. The spicy salmon tostadas were good, but I didn't see that it was like a 'poke'. So be warned, it's great, but it was a raw salmon on the tostada.
How to reach Mi Buena Vida
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Why Mi Buena Vida may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Mi Buena Vida with your friends?
Mi Buena Vida stands out as an exceptional venue for gathering with friends due to its vibrant atmosphere, outstanding cuisine, and unique setting. This Mexican restaurant has quickly become a favorite for groups who want a lively yet comfortable environment to enjoy together. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted with a welcoming ambiance highlighted by remarkable decor that is both stylish and warm. The setting is perfect for socializing, offering enough space for lively conversations without overwhelming noise, making it ideal for both intimate gatherings and larger meetups. The staff are known for attentive and friendly service, enhancing the overall experience and making every guest feel valued. Additionally, Mi Buena Vida offers an array of delicious dishes presented with artistic flair, combining traditional flavors with creative twists that excite all taste buds. This mix of great food, inviting space, and excellent service positions Mi Buena Vida as the ideal place to rally with your friends, whether for a casual night out or a special celebration.
What activities and food experiences make Mi Buena Vida perfect for group meetups?
Mi Buena Vida offers a variety of engaging activities for groups centered mainly around its food and drink experience. The start of every meal includes a generous complimentary bowl of house-made corn tortilla chips paired with freshly made salsa roja—a great appetizer for sharing. Guests can also indulge in the popular house guacamole, handmade with pico de gallo, which is a must-have for any avocado lover in the group. An exciting feature is the salsa bar, where diners have access to a diverse range of salsas and condiments, providing a fun and interactive tasting experience that sparks conversation and discovery among friends. The menu brings something for everyone, from the generous Eva’s Nachos loaded with refried beans, cheese, and guacamole to more substantial dishes like their enchiladas served with choices of fillings such as steak, shrimp, or portobello, all beautifully presented. The presence of a kids’ menu ensures families can comfortably bring along little ones. Complementing the food are delightful desserts like flan, churros with dulce de leche, and horchata cake, allowing groups to end their meal on a sweet note. Mi Buena Vida’s combination of shareable starters, customizable condiments, and diverse menu items ensures every group member finds something to enjoy, making collective dining both interactive and satisfying.
How does the ambiance and setting at Mi Buena Vida enhance group gatherings?
Situated on the third floor of the Legends Container Village in Springville, Mi Buena Vida boasts a quirky and reclaimed industrial aesthetic that adds to its charm. This unique setting encourages a relaxed and fun vibe, making group meetups feel special and memorable. The decor cleverly merges modern design elements with rustic touches, creating an environment that is visually appealing and welcoming. The space supports a range of group sizes with seating arrangements adaptable to intimate dinners and casual larger meetups. The overall vibe is upbeat but not rushed, allowing groups to linger over meals and conversations. Patrons have noted the thoughtful presentation of each dish complements the ambiance, adding to the overall visual experience of dining together. Friendly and knowledgeable staff further contribute to a smooth, hassle-free social experience, attending to group needs promptly and ensuring everyone’s preferences are met. This combination of a dynamic setting and attentive service provides the perfect backdrop for memorable group socializing at Mi Buena Vida.
What drink options and extras complement a meetup at Mi Buena Vida?
The drink offerings at Mi Buena Vida round out the group meetup experience delightfully. Margaritas are especially popular, praised for their quality and the way they enhance social meals. The bar also offers a variety of other beverages, including cocktails that match the vibrant flavors of the food menu. Having refreshing drinks available encourages a laid-back and celebratory atmosphere among friends. Additionally, the salsa bar plays a central role in creating an interactive and shared tasting adventure, which can be a fun activity for groups that enjoy exploring diverse flavor profiles. This feature adds an element of discovery and engagement beyond just ordering from a menu and fosters lively conversation about spiciness levels and favorite combos. For those with dietary preferences or little ones, the restaurant provides menu items that accommodate diverse needs, ensuring no one is left out. Altogether, these complementary extras — from drinks to sauces — make Mi Buena Vida not just a place to eat but a place to participate, relax, and connect with friends.
Why is Mi Buena Vida a top choice for hosting celebrations and reunions?
For anyone planning a celebration or reunion, Mi Buena Vida offers the perfect mix of ambiance, cuisine, and service quality to make the event special. The restaurant’s glowing 4.5-star rating with hundreds of reviews reflects consistent customer satisfaction, especially for group gatherings. Its menu’s versatility allows hosts to cater to varied tastes and dietary needs, while the generous portions ensure no one leaves hungry. The striking presentation of even simple dishes elevates the dining experience, suitable for making any occasion feel festive. The staff’s attentiveness is another highlight—they accommodate special requests and help coordinate to make celebrations run smoothly. Moreover, the location within the engaging Legends Container Village adds a unique edge, offering visitors a memorable place to gather beyond the standard restaurant setting. With these attributes, Mi Buena Vida emerges as a prime venue for groups wanting an effortless yet exciting meal together, whether marking milestones or simply enjoying time with loved ones.
What do reviews say about the overall experience at Mi Buena Vida?
Reviews describe Mi Buena Vida as a refreshing addition to the local dining scene, characterized by fresh-tasting food, clean and well-maintained premises, and admirable service. Diners frequently commend the salsa bar’s wide selection of flavors and the quality of the margaritas served. The creative menu with dishes such as Chiles En Nogada and fajitas impress many, while desserts including churros and flan receive consistent praise. Some guests highlight the beautifully plated dishes, noting that presentation is as much a pleasure as the flavors. While a few reviews indicate that the restaurant is relatively new, it has quickly built a strong positive reputation. This growing acclaim is particularly attractive to groups looking for a dependable restaurant with both excellent Mexican cuisine and an inviting atmosphere ideal for socializing. Mi Buena Vida’s balance of ambiance, quality food, and service is echoed widely enough to confidently recommend it for meetups with friends or family.
What makes Mi Buena Vida’s menu unique and appealing to groups?
Mi Buena Vida’s menu stands out with its skillful combination of traditional Mexican recipes and inventive touches that please a range of palates. Key to its appeal is the variety of dishes that can satisfy different preferences—from hearty meat options like steak and carnitas to vegetarian alternatives such as portobello-based enchiladas. The sauces offered—including tomatillo, mole, and queso—allow guests to customize their meals, promoting an interactive dining experience that encourages groups to share and compare flavors. Signature offerings like the large Eva’s Nachos and house-made chips and salsa provide excellent shareable starters, sparking conviviality. The thoughtful inclusion of a kids’ menu allows families to dine in comfort without hassle. Desserts like fresh churros with dulce de leche and cake horchata add a sweet finale that appeals widely. This versatility paired with quality ingredients and bold flavors makes Mi Buena Vida a crowd-pleaser and ideal for group dining occasions that call for both comfort and adventure on the plate.