When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Squatters Pub Brewery
Why Squatters Pub Brewery is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Squatters Pub Brewery, founded in 1989, stands as Salt Lake City's first and most beloved brewpub, offering a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends. Located in a historic, repurposed hotel in downtown Salt Lake City, this brewpub invites guests to enjoy freshly brewed, award-winning craft beers while watching the brewing process firsthand. The menu features locally sourced and sustainably focused dishes, ranging from diverse lunch and dinner options to weekend brunch favorites. The brewery's craft cocktails, made with locally distilled liquors, complement the exceptional beer selection beautifully. With multiple unique event spaces, including The Potting Shed, The Patio, The Loft, and The Grain Room, Squatters accommodates gatherings of all sizes, making it an ideal venue for group dinners, company parties, and private celebrations. The lively environment combined with quality food and drinks has made Squatters Pub Brewery an enduring staple in the community for over 35 years, offering a true taste of Salt Lake City's craft beer culture and social scene.
Here's what people think of Squatters Pub Brewery
As of recent, Squatters Pub Brewery holds a 4.5-star rating based on 2818 reviews.
Reviews of Squatters Pub Brewery consistently praise its inviting atmosphere and the quality of its craft beer, attributing a solid 4.5-star rating from over 2800 reviewers. Many guests commend the brewery's extensive selection of ales and its vibrant sports venue vibe, describing the experience as fun and memorable. The menu receives high marks for both variety and taste, with several reviewers highlighting the excellent service and quality of food. Positive feedback also points to the well-maintained setting and the engaging ambiance that draws locals and visitors alike. On the other hand, a segment of negative reviews mentions occasional lapses in service quality and inconsistencies in food preparation, prompting direct responses from management who emphasize their commitment to high standards and continuous staff training. Despite these isolated concerns, the overall consensus remains overwhelmingly favorable. Squatters Pub Brewery is regarded as a must-visit destination for those looking to enjoy craft beer and friendly social settings in Salt Lake City, backed by a strong legacy and local pride.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Google Critic
The chili was very delicious but not hot (temperature)enough. đ„ The margherita pizza was so so. đ The taco salad was not traditional savory. It was sour. It needed tomatoes đ đČ and chili added on top or on the side. Service was great friendly & handsome. đđ€©đ Great atmosphere. Loved this place for 14 years. Hamburgers đ are the best! Had those in the past. Great prices, Recommend adding Gorgonzola cheese to your French fries, đđ but the deserts and sodas need to be lower-priced 3-22-25 @10pm đ
Wattana C.
I went for lunch and ordered a New York strip, cooked medium rare. Unfortunately, the first steak was closer to well done. I politely asked for it to be redone, but the server didnât seem very pleased and told me it would take another 20â30 minutes. Despite that, the second attempt came out in about 15 minutesâbut this time, it was extremely rare, practically raw in the center (see photo). What made the experience more disappointing was that the server never returned to check on the second steak or ask if it was prepared correctly. While the atmosphere of the restaurant was actually quite nice and inviting, the overall service and attention to detail were lacking. I understand that mistakes happen, but how theyâre handled makes all the differenceâand in this case, it really fell short. Both the quality of the food and the customer service could use significant improvement. Edit: A Great Comeback Experience A few weeks ago, I had lunch here and wasnât too impressed. But I decided to give it another try, and Iâm so glad I didâthis visit was excellent. I ordered the Great American Bison burger, the New York strip (medium), mac and cheese, Berramisu and a few drinks. The steak was cooked perfectlyâtender, juicy, and full of flavor. The bison burger was also very tasty. The mac and cheese was for my daughter, and she loved itâit was creamy, cheesy, and just right for a kid. They also have a kidsâ menu, which is a big plus for families. We sat outdoors this time, and the atmosphere was great. The patio is shaded by trees, making it a relaxing spot to enjoy a meal. It was a quiet Sunday lunch with very few people around, which made it even more enjoyable. The service was excellentâour server was friendly, attentive, and made us feel very welcome. A nice surprise: they offer a brunch menu on Saturdays and Sundays, which adds even more variety and makes it worth coming back on a weekend. Parking is convenient, with a lot right next to the restaurant, but itâs a bit pricey at $10 for two hours. Still, itâs close and hassle-free if youâre just there for lunch. This visit completely changed my impression of the place. Great food, friendly service, and a family-friendly atmosphereâIâll definitely be back!
Amy Ruhl
Hands down best fries I have ever had! Had a great Hef with our lunch, pulled pork was very flavorful, some of the best we have had. Great place for lunch. I had the chicken rice bowl, id probably skip that for the pulled pork sandwich next time.
Rishi Malhotra (PizzaKong)
*pizza only review* Good quality ingredients, fermented light dough with a decent crisp and good chew. Sauce is a bit understated - simple and good balance, but not a great ratio. Good quality cheese, fresh mozz. Unfortunately too much flour on bottom. Overall a good order for an average pub.
Zakk High
After a lovely, wholesome morning stroll through the Farmers Market (where I may or may not have pretended to know the difference between heirloom tomatoes and just... red ones), we were ready for brunch. Unfortunately, Squatters Pub Brewery believes in beauty sleep. They open a bit later than expected on a sunny summer Saturday. I guess they're letting the beer ferment and the anticipation build. Fair enough. When they did open, it was worth the wait. We grabbed a spot on the back patio, which is gorgeous. We're talking secluded, airy, and blessedly misted like a fancy produce section at Whole Foods. Refreshing! The only odd part? A weird little smell wafting through now and then. Nothing criminal, just a funky background note that made me question whether my kale smoothie from earlier was haunting me. Now, letâs talk about the true highlight: Ian, the waiter. This man didnât just serve food; he served joy! Attentive, funny, somehow always appearing exactly when we needed something. He was like a magical brunch wizard with a notepad. He deserves his own IPA. Food was okay, drinks even better, and honestly, the vibe was so chill I stopped caring what time it was. Squatters might open late, but if youâre lucky enough to get Ian and a patio seat, youâll be glad you stuck around. Just maybe bring a nose plug... or embrace the mystery.
How to reach Squatters Pub Brewery
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Why Squatters Pub Brewery may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Squatters Pub Brewery with your friends?
Squatters Pub Brewery in downtown Salt Lake City offers an unbeatable gathering spot for friends looking to enjoy great brews, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere. This historic brew pub, established in 1989 as Salt Lake Cityâs first local brew pub, combines rich heritage with modern craft beer culture to create an inviting space perfect for socializing. Whether youâre celebrating a special occasion or simply catching up, Squatters delivers a unique blend of award-winning craft beer brewed on-site, a diverse menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, and a lively downtown setting that fosters connection and celebration. The pubâs origins in an old hotel building add charm and character, while its spacious and versatile layoutâincluding multiple event spacesâmeans groups of all sizes will find comfort here. The attentive staff and welcoming ambiance ensure every visit feels personal and memorable, making it an ideal rally point to unwind, laugh, and make lasting memories with your circle.
What makes Squatters Pub Brewery perfect for group meetups?
Squatters Pub Brewery is tailored to accommodate groups ranging from intimate gatherings to large parties, thanks to its variety of seating areas and event spaces. The main floor features The Potting Shed and The Patio, which are snug yet roomy areas great for casual dinners or small company parties. For larger groups or more formal events, the upstairs Loft and Grain Room provide expansive, stylish settings that can be reserved separately or together, offering flexibility and privacy while still keeping the energetic atmosphere of the brewery. All these spaces welcome guests of all ages, making Squatters a versatile choice whether youâre organizing a family reunion, friend meetup, or work event. Beyond the physical environment, the breweryâs dedication to sustainability and local sourcing reflects a community spirit that resonates well with groups who appreciate supporting local businesses and enjoying responsibly crafted products together.
What activities can you enjoy at Squatters Pub Brewery with your group?
At Squatters, your meetup isnât just about sitting down for food and drinksâthereâs plenty of engaging activities to enhance your experience. For one, watching the brewing process is a highlight. Located in the heart of the brewery, the visible brewing tanks allow guests to see fresh craft beer created right before their eyes, sparking conversations and appreciation for the craft. The diverse beer selection offers something for every taste, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, and the knowledgeable staff can guide your group through tastings and pairings. The restaurant menu is laden with crowd-pleasers like their famous Buffalo Wings, bacon-wrapped meatloaf, and a beloved veggie burger, ensuring everyone in your party finds a favorite. Weekend brunch adds another option for groups looking to meet during the day, while live music and special events held regularly at the pub bring added excitement. Whether youâre a beer enthusiast or simply want a lively, welcoming venue for your group gathering, Squatters provides plenty of reason to linger and enjoy.
How does the location enhance your group experience at Squatters?
Situated in downtown Salt Lake City on 147 W. Broadway, Squatters Pub Brewery boasts prime city-center access that makes it easy for your whole group to convene with minimal hassle. The historic hotel building setting is embedded in the local urban fabric, giving visitors a chance to soak up the cityâs energy alongside their brewery experience. The convenience of ample street parking nearby adds to the stress-free meetup, especially for groups arriving from out of town or coming from various directions within the city. Being downtown also means guests can pair their pub visit with other local attractions, turning an evening at Squatters into part of a larger social outing. This location advantage makes it a natural choice for all kinds of get-togethers, whether casual evenings, weekend brunches, or special celebrations with friends and family.
Why is the menu and drink selection ideal for diverse groups at Squatters?
Squatters Pub Brewery prides itself on a menu that caters to diverse dietary preferences and palates, making it an excellent place for groups with varied tastes. The pub offers vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring everyone in your party can find something delicious and suitable. Their signature dishes, such as legendary Buffalo Wings with blue cheese and artichoke cheese dip, appeal to lovers of classic pub fare, while more adventurous eaters can relish dishes crafted from local and sustainable ingredients. In terms of beverages, guests benefit from the freshest craft beers brewed on-site, offering everything from light, crisp ales to robust, complex stouts and porters. Craft cocktails made with locally distilled liquor add another layer of variety. This combination of quality, variety, and thoughtful sourcing encourages group members to explore new flavors together, fostering lively conversation and shared experiences.
How can private events at Squatters Pub Brewery elevate your group gathering?
For groups that want an even more tailored experience, Squatters offers private event spaces that can be booked for everything from intimate dinners to large receptions. With four unique spaces distributed over multiple floors â The Potting Shed, The Patio, The Loft, and The Grain Room â you can select the perfect setting based on your eventâs size and style. The Loft and Grain Room are particularly suited for cocktail-style parties or receptions for upwards of 30 to 400 guests, ensuring plenty of room for mingling and entertainment. Professional event coordination and customizable menus allow your group to enjoy seamless service and a personalized experience. These private options make Squatters not just a pub, but a premier venue for milestone celebrations, corporate events, or any social gathering where privacy and top-notch hospitality matter.
What community and sustainability values does Squatters bring to your meetup?
Gathering your friends at Squatters means supporting a business deeply invested in its local community and sustainability. The brewery emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices, reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship and local economic support that resonates with socially conscious guests. This ethos permeates everything from their kitchen to the brewery floor, offering your group the satisfaction of knowing your enjoyable visit also contributes positively to the communityâs well-being. Moreover, Squattersâ longstanding presence since 1989 has helped cultivate a strong local identity and sense of pride in Salt Lakeâs craft beer scene. Meeting here is more than just about food and drinkâitâs about participating in a vibrant cultural tradition, making your group gathering richer and more meaningful.
How accessible and welcoming is Squatters Pub Brewery for different kinds of groups?
Squatters Pub Brewery is designed to be welcoming and accessible to a wide range of guests, making it a great choice for groups of all ages and backgrounds. The brewery welcomes all ages in its private event spaces, facilitating family-friendly events as well as adult gatherings. Its central downtown location is accessible by various transportation methods, including public transit, ride-shares, and walking for locals, accommodating the needs of diverse groups. The staff is trained to provide attentive, inclusive service, ensuring everyone in your group feels comfortable and valued throughout the visit. Whether youâre hosting a casual meetup, a birthday party, or an after-work celebration, this welcoming atmosphere helps every group feel right at home.
What makes Squatters Pub Brewery a memorable destination for your group?
Beyond the excellent beer and food, Squatters Pub Brewery stands out as a memorable venue due to its unique blend of historic charm, lively energy, and commitment to local craft and community. The opportunity to watch beer being brewed while enjoying an expertly prepared meal adds an immersive and educational dimension to your outing. The striking setting inside a renovated historic hotel offers a cozy yet vibrant backdrop for conversations and celebrations. The breweryâs continuous evolution within the Salt Lake City scene while honoring its roots creates a dynamic environment where tradition and innovation meet. Your group will leave having experienced not just a meal or drinks, but a slice of Salt Lakeâs craft brewing heritageâwith stories and laughs to cherish long after the event ends. This blend of atmosphere, quality, and community relevance makes Squatters an exceptional meetup destination.