When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Salt City Barbecue
Why Salt City Barbecue is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Salt City Barbecue, located in the heart of Salt Lake City at 545 West 700 South, is a premier destination for barbecue enthusiasts and anyone looking for a casual and flavorful dining experience. This establishment offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it an excellent spot for friends to gather and enjoy hearty meals together. Specializing in smoked meats, Salt City Barbecue impresses with a menu crafted from scratch (except for queso and chips), featuring standout items such as brisket, pulled pork, and ribs. Unique smoking techniques include using white oak and pecan wood, enhanced with butter, maple syrup, and brown sugar to create an appealing flavor profile marked by smoky, sweet, and peppery notes. The accompanying house-made barbecue sauce perfectly complements the meats without overwhelming their natural flavors. Moreover, Salt City Barbecue nurtures a community spirit through catering services and even extends its passion with a podcast, allowing patrons to engage with barbecue culture on multiple levels. The welcoming environment, paired with comforting and expertly prepared food, makes this barbecue joint a great place to meet up, relax, and savor delicious meals with friends.
Here's what people think of Salt City Barbecue
As of recent, Salt City Barbecue holds a 4.5-star rating based on 162 reviews.
Reviews of Salt City Barbecue reflect an overall positive dining experience, with an impressive rating of 4.5 stars from 162 reviewers. Many patrons praised the exceptional flavor of the smoked meats, highlighting the brisket, pulled pork, and ribs as particularly memorable. The smoky and sweet seasoning blend, the moist and juicy pulled pork enhanced with rib juices, and the house-crafted barbecue sauces were repeatedly cited as standout features. The food truck’s presence at venues like the Grove Station food truck park also adds to its appeal by providing a relaxed setting with indoor and outdoor seating options, along with a diverse soda selection. \nOn the other hand, some reviewers noted minor issues, such as the ribs being a bit tougher than desired, requiring effort to get all the meat off the bones. However, this was generally seen as a small drawback compared to the overall quality and taste of the offerings. The focus on freshly prepared items and scratch-made sauces compensated well for any such shortcomings. \nIn conclusion, customer reviews suggest that Salt City Barbecue delivers consistently flavorful and satisfying barbecue fare in a friendly environment, making it a popular choice for locals and visitors. While a few minor texture preferences varied, the overwhelmingly positive feedback affirms its status as a top barbecue spot in Salt Lake City.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ernie Hernandez
I don't really understand the stellar reviews. I had the pulled pork sandwich, which is a barbecue staple anywhere. I got the baked beans on the side because, why not? The pork itself was dry and had no inherent flavor. It just took the flavor of whatever sauce was on it. My first bite of the beans I was thinking, oh these are pretty good. But that was just the human taste preference for sweet prevailing. Just a few bites in I was choking down my pulled pork and thinking "these beans are just way too sweet." I ended up not finishing the beans, even as dessert. The sad part is I ended up trying this place because another nearby barbecue place wouldn't answer the phone to take a phone order. I guess you could say I'm not having tremendous success with barbecue places in Salt Lake City.
C A
After eating smoked meats/BBQ in Texas for 25 years i can absolutely say this is the best brisket in Utah! Very tender and moist with just the right season and smoke ring. Unfortunately at $32/lb the brisket is priced too high to be a frequent stop.
Bushra Alam (Nanoslam)
The brisket, mac and cheese and bbq sauce was out of this world!!! I wish I had the room to eat more. I brought back a pound of brisket back home to Toronto 🇨🇦 and it did not disappoint!! Tasted amazing when properly warmed. One of the best brisket I have ever had! Everyone who loves bbq brisket and Mac and cheese needs to come here!!
Aaron
I ordered a last minute catering order for 50 people for a work party. We ordered the ribs, brisket, smoked turkey, potato salad, and coleslaw. The food was a hit, everyone really enjoyed everything. I had some left over and served it to some family the next day and again got rave reviews. The owner was great in walking me through his recommendations of the order. Staff was super helpful packing up the order and helping me load the car.
Dan
I was craving barbecue. I live in Tooele and I was cruising around, when I saw the Salt City Barbecue truck. The family and I decided this would be a good choice never been there before we all had the brisket nachos and they were absolutely phenomenal, tasty as hell, the queso was amazing and the brisket was cooked to perfection. If you're craving barbecue this is definitely the place to go.
How to reach Salt City Barbecue
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Why Salt City Barbecue may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Salt City Barbecue with your friends? If you want a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere fused with some of the best barbecue Utah offers, Salt City Barbecue is an unbeatable choice. Rated 4.5 out of 5 from over 160 reviews, this spot has won multiple local awards for its ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, making it a true barbecue haven. Gathering your friends here means more than just great food; it’s about sharing an exceptional culinary experience that turns casual meetups into memorable events. Whether you’re craving smoky ribs that melt in your mouth or perfectly seasoned brisket, Salt City Barbecue delivers with authenticity and passion. The cozy yet energetic vibe invites lively conversations while savoring hearty plates and craft beverages. Plus, it's centrally located at 545 West 700 South in Salt Lake City, making it easily accessible for groups coming from all directions. The fast service and friendly staff keep the energy high and the food coming, so no one waits long to dig in. For those who care about quality and atmosphere, Salt City Barbecue offers the perfect setting to rally your friends for laughter, great eats, and an experience you’ll want to repeat.
What activities can groups enjoy at Salt City Barbecue and why is it perfect for meetups? Salt City Barbecue is designed to accommodate and entertain groups of all sizes. Beyond enjoying world-class barbecue, the restaurant’s environment encourages socializing and fun. The spacious dining area provides ample seating for larger parties, making it easy to gather your friends or family without cramped spaces. The rustic, casual décor creates a laid-back, communal vibe that invites guests to linger and share stories. Besides the main dining experience, Salt City Barbecue offers catering services for private events such as birthday parties, corporate gatherings, and wedding festivities, allowing you to bring that authentic barbecue flavor to any venue. For a more interactive meetup, group members can bond over shared platters featuring ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and sides like baked beans and coleslaw — a delicious way to spark conversation and camaraderie. The staff is adept at accommodating special requests, ensuring that dietary preferences or group needs are handled effortlessly. Overall, it’s a place crafted for connection, where the joy of good food merges seamlessly with the spirit of togetherness.
How does the menu at Salt City Barbecue enhance the group experience? The menu at Salt City Barbecue is a celebration of classic American BBQ done right, emphasizing quality meats smoked to perfection and complemented by tasty sides. For groups, the wide selection means everyone can find something to satisfy their cravings, from tender ribs to juicy pulled pork and savory brisket. The servings are generous, ideal for sharing family-style or trying a bit of everything through combo plates. Sides such as mac and cheese, smoked beans, and cornbread enrich the experience by adding traditional Southern comfort to the meal. Moreover, Salt City Barbecue periodically updates its menu to include new creations and seasonal specials, ensuring frequent visitors have fresh options to explore. Their reputation for speed and consistency means groups won’t be waiting long, even when the restaurant is bustling. The menu’s crowd-pleasing variety paired with award-winning quality fosters an inviting atmosphere perfect for groups to relax, indulge and celebrate.
What makes Salt City Barbecue a great choice for hosting special occasions? Salt City Barbecue shines as a venue for special events thanks to its flexible catering options and attentive service. Whether you are planning a birthday party, a rehearsal dinner, a corporate event, or even a wedding reception, they tailor each event to meet your group’s tastes and logistical needs. The team takes pride in customizing menus and setups so your gathering feels personal and effortless. Clients praise Salt City Barbecue’s ability to handle large groups while maintaining high food quality and prompt service, which is essential for special occasions. The warmly rustic ambiance provides a welcoming backdrop for celebration that is informal yet memorable. Additionally, the option for on-site dining or off-site catering gives hosts the freedom to choose what works best for their event. This level of service combined with outstanding cuisine makes Salt City Barbecue a trusted choice that puts the spotlight on your occasion without the stress.
Why is Salt City Barbecue a community favorite and how does this impact your meetup? The accolades Salt City Barbecue has received—from City Weekly’s Best of Utah awards to Best of State honors—reflect its strong bond with the local community. Being recognized for the best ribs and top barbecue dishes builds confidence for anyone considering it as a meetup location. Locals often share that they travel considerable distances just to enjoy this authentic barbecue experience, signaling top-tier quality and consistency. The restaurant’s active involvement in community food events, festivals, and food truck engagements further demonstrates a dedication to connecting with people beyond the dining room. This community love creates a positive, inclusive energy that permeates the space and translates into a warm reception for groups. When you bring your friends here, you’re not only enjoying excellent food but also partaking in a beloved local tradition that invites you to feel at home. This community trust and enthusiasm make meetups here not just fun, but also meaningful and memorable.
How convenient are the location and hours of Salt City Barbecue for group gatherings? Salt City Barbecue is conveniently located in downtown Salt Lake City, making it easily accessible for people coming from various parts of the city and nearby areas. Its address, 545 West 700 South, places it near major roads and transit routes, simplifying travel logistics for groups. The restaurant’s operating hours—from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm Monday through Saturday—allow for flexible scheduling to suit lunch meetups or dinner plans. Closing on Sundays helps staff rest and prepare, ensuring top-notch service on the other days. For groups planning ahead, Salt City Barbecue recommends reservations, ensuring your party can be comfortably accommodated during busy periods. The ability to dine in, order takeout, or arrange catering also adds to the venue’s versatility, allowing group organizers to tailor the experience to their preferences and schedules. This combination of location, hours, and service options maximizes convenience for any group meetup.
What additional services enhance the meetup experience at Salt City Barbecue? Beyond dining and catering, Salt City Barbecue offers personalized services that enrich the overall gathering experience. Their event catering can be fully customized, including menu selections, portion sizes, and delivery or setup options at your chosen venue. This bespoke approach helps hosts focus on enjoying the occasion while trusting the food and presentation will impress their guests. The staff’s friendliness and professionalism also contribute to a smooth experience, from initial inquiry to event completion. Moreover, Salt City Barbecue frequently updates its social media channels with menu news, special offers, and event appearances, keeping customers informed and engaged. This proactive communication helps group organizers plan events with confidence. Additionally, the restaurant’s lively yet comfortable environment encourages spontaneous fun, making it ideal for informal get-togethers and celebrations alike. Together, these services create a welcoming and hassle-free meetup atmosphere that enhances every occasion.
What is the overall vibe and atmosphere at Salt City Barbecue for groups? Salt City Barbecue blends a casual, rustic charm with vibrant energy that makes it ideal for group outings. The decor features warm wood finishes, communal tables, and vintage barbecue elements, all fostering a welcoming space where friends and family can relax and enjoy themselves. This ambiance supports lively conversations, laughter, and shared enjoyment of great food. The open layout means groups can easily mingle and feel connected without feeling crowded, creating a community-style dining experience. The upbeat background music and occasional live events or food truck appearances add to the dynamic atmosphere. Meanwhile, the attentive, friendly staff ensure every group feels valued and taken care of. This combination of comfortable aesthetics and spirited hospitality forms the heart of Salt City Barbecue’s appeal as a group destination.
How does Salt City Barbecue handle large groups and ensure an excellent dining experience? Salt City Barbecue is experienced in managing large parties without compromising on food quality or service speed. The restaurant’s spacious seating arrangements accommodate groups comfortably, allowing segregation of different sized parties while maintaining a lively yet intimate setting. Staff are trained to coordinate efficiently with large tables, ensuring timely delivery of meals so no group member is left waiting too long. The kitchen excels at preparing barbecue in generous quantities, utilizing traditional smoking techniques that retain flavor and tenderness even when cooking in bulk. To make things easier, the restaurant encourages reservations for big groups, allowing them to prepare in advance and customize your dining experience. Feedback from customers often praises how well Salt City balances volume with quality, making it an exceptional venue for group dining that feels both relaxed and special.
Can Salt City Barbecue cater to dietary needs and preferences within a group? Yes, Salt City Barbecue is attentive to diverse dietary needs and preferences, which is crucial for group get-togethers. While their menu centers on meat-based dishes like ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, they also offer a variety of sides and accompaniments that can cater to different tastes. The staff is happy to discuss allergen information and suggest options for those with dietary restrictions. For larger groups or catering events, customized menus can be created to accommodate vegetarian or other special diets, ensuring all guests feel included. This flexibility makes Salt City Barbecue a dependable choice for gatherings where everyone’s culinary needs must be met without compromising the joy of barbecue. The restaurant’s dedication to accommodating guests further strengthens its reputation as a welcoming, group-friendly establishment.
Why is Salt City Barbecue a must-visit for barbecue lovers and social groups alike? Salt City Barbecue stands out as a must-visit because it masterfully combines award-winning barbecue with an atmosphere crafted for social enjoyment. Barbecue enthusiasts are drawn to the smoky richness and authentic flavors, while social groups appreciate the space and vibe that encourages shared meals and good times. Its consistent high ratings and glowing reviews affirm its quality and reliability. Whether meeting old friends, celebrating a milestone, or just enjoying casual time together, Salt City Barbecue delivers exceptional food and friendly service that lifts the occasion. The versatility in dining options and event services means it can flexibly serve any group’s needs. In Salt Lake City’s barbecue scene, Salt City Barbecue is not just a place to eat but a destination to convene, celebrate, and create lasting memories. This combination makes it a top recommendation for anyone looking to rally friends or family around great food and great company.