When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
The Copper Onion
Why The Copper Onion is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Copper Onion, located in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, is an exceptional destination perfect for meeting up with friends. It offers a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere that combines chic modern design with the cozy feel of comfort food. The restaurant is renowned for its seasonally inspired menu crafted by award-winning chef Ryan Lowder, who emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and innovative flavor combinations. Highlights include house-made pastas, gourmet burgers, artisanal charcuterie, and decadent desserts, ensuring an array of flavorful options. The open kitchen design provides an engaging dining experience where guests can watch the culinary team at work, adding a unique level of connection and excitement. Friendly and knowledgeable staff create a warm, attentive environment enhancing the social experience. With its dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients and culinary creativity, The Copper Onion is well-suited for casual outings, special occasions, or just catching up over exceptional food and drink in a lively downtown setting.
Here's what people think of The Copper Onion
As of recent, The Copper Onion holds a 4.4-star rating based on 3511 reviews.
Customer reviews of The Copper Onion consistently reflect a strong appreciation for its high-quality food and excellent service. Positive reviews frequently praise the restaurant's atmosphere, which is described as lively and inviting, with staff recognized for their friendliness, professionalism, and deep knowledge of the menu. Visitors often highlight signature dishes like Ricotta Dumplings with lemon and brown butter, Braised Pork Belly with shaved Brussels sprouts, and fresh house-made pastas as standout items. Many appreciate the dedication to locally sourced, fresh ingredients, including daily ground sausage and baked bread, which contribute to an exceptional dining experience at affordable prices. On the other hand, some negative feedback touches on occasional lapses in service, such as feeling ignored during busy times, which can detract from the overall experience. Despite these occasional concerns, the general consensus suggests guests find The Copper Onion to be a reliable and top-tier dining option, justifying its strong rating and high ranking among Salt Lake City restaurants. Overall, the reviews demonstrate a well-loved establishment that continues to deliver a satisfying and memorable culinary experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Christine Divan
The entire experience was exceptional. We stated with the salted chili whipped ricotta and sourdough. Appetizers were the black pepper mussels and the goat cheese salad. The goat cheese salad was an expert pairing, and the flavors together were amazing. Entree was the Wagyu beef stroganoff; the preparation was elevated, comfort food with fresh noodles, and a nice spooning of creme friache: the mushrooms were varied and well prepared, making the dish a delight to eat. We received a gratis order of the ricotta dumplings. These are not to be missed; they are scrumptious.
Brianna Allen
Randomly visiting SLC and this place popped up on my TikTok when I was thinking about dinner. Weird. Anyway! Service was beautiful! We were sat immediately at 630p on a Saturday, lucky us. Requested outside then requested inside about 10 minutes after we were sat. The wind had picked up heavily in a short time so we decided to be pains. Our server was happy to change our seats, didn’t have us feeling bad about it at all. All service was absolutely lovely. I was most excited about the small plates/shareables so we started with the house sour dough with whipped ricotta and salted peppers, grilled asparagus, and crispy goat cheese salad. It was all great! The crispy goat cheese salad was the highlight of the meal, perfectly crispy cheese with a mouth puckering dressing that balanced everything out nicely. The bread and whipped ricotta and peppers was a close second. The salted peppers were no joke, make sure you have water. The spice was perfect, the salt is what burned my mouth. But still very good. The grilled asparagus needed another minute or two on the grill but all in all was very tasty and a valuable break from the salt. For entrees we both ordered pasta, I had the cacio a pepe and my husband had the bolognese. The pasta portions were really small, so be aware of that. Wasn’t a problem for us because of all the starters we had. His bolognese was really good. Al dente pasta and a spicy, flavorful, creamy sauce. And here comes the sad part….the cacio a Pepe was the worse pasta I’ve ever been served in a restaurant, and we’ve eaten at Olive Garden soo… I think it was microwaved, shockingly. It was inedible. Dry, crusty, rubbery, weird. Like the pasta you take to work and accidentally microwave too long. I was pretty baffled but also too full and satisfied to care much. I didn’t complain. All in all would definitely return here but we’d stick to the small plates, things where they shine! The bill was crazy cheap, even with my wine.
Katelynn Kellogg
If I could give half stars, this would be a solid 3.5 stars. This restaurant was highly spoken of prior to my visit so I had high expectations, which may be why I was partly disappointed as well. It felt like a very basic, expected experience, nothing too special about the place. I wasn't disappointed, but I also wasn't surprised or wowed by anything at all. I made a reservation because I was told it gets pretty busy and I just wanted to be on the safe side, but I arrived at 8:30pm on a Tuesday evening and no reservation was needed. There were a lot of seating options available. The steak was delicious, just as expected, the bearnaise sauce was also really perfectly prepared. The fries were not good. They were way over seasoned and tasted really oily. I only ate about a handful. When the meal only consists of steak and fries, both have to be on point. I think the vibe of the place was welcoming and I can see it being a good place to come with family or a group of friends which is why I'm giving it a 4-star vs. a 3 star. The outside seating area is right on the street. Food was 7/10 Vibe was 8/10 Service 8/10
Joe Tan
I am thankful that we were seated earlier than our reservation time. The place was not that full at 8pm. We were asked if we prefer outdoor or indoors, which was nice. We seated indoors. Our waitress finally came to our table after a few waiters came by and just gave us a stare. This took longer for a not so busy day. We were given water and asked if we were ready to order. The food. The bone marrow had barely any marrow. The steak on the steak frittes was a bit on the salty side. The wagyu beef stroganoff was more of a mushroom stroganoff. There were just 3 very small pieces of beef in it and a ton of very salty mushrooms. The burger was the best item we ordered. Overall, the ambience was good but the food just so so.
David Morales
After walking around downtown SLC, we stumbled upon this gem. My steak salad was definitely filling but light, especially after a night of silent disco and too many vodka sodas. My husband's burger was delicious, but the real star was the French fries. Crispy but not greasy. PS- Don't sleep on the house pickles!
How to reach The Copper Onion
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Why The Copper Onion may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Copper Onion with your friends?
Gathering with friends and family at The Copper Onion in Salt Lake City offers an experience that’s both inviting and memorable, making it an ideal spot to rally together. With a strong reputation reflected in its 4.4-star rating from over 3,500 reviews, this restaurant combines a lively yet comfortable atmosphere with a menu that balances creativity and comfort food. The Copper Onion is not just about eating; it’s about sharing moments over dishes crafted with care and attention to detail, perfect for deep conversations and laughter. Whether it’s a brunch, dinner, or weekend meetup, the vibrant bistro-style setting creates an energizing buzz without being overwhelming, allowing groups to connect easily. Its location in downtown Salt Lake City also makes it easily accessible, enhancing convenience for gatherings. The open kitchen design encourages a communal vibe where guests can enjoy watching the kitchen craft their meals, adding a dynamic backdrop to your social experience. In essence, The Copper Onion fosters a warm, inclusive environment that makes you and your friends feel right at home while indulging in satisfying food and drinks.
What activities and experiences make The Copper Onion perfect for group meetups?
The Copper Onion offers several appealing activities and options that make it a superb choice for group gatherings. First, the restaurant features a flexible dining environment—from bar seating around the open kitchen, which is ideal for smaller, interactive groups wanting to engage directly with the kitchen action, to cozy tables that accommodate larger parties seeking more private conversations. The menu itself invites sharing, with thoughtfully crafted family-style side dishes such as parmesan-truffle fries and spiced heirloom carrots that encourage communal dining. Guests can create customized tasting experiences by ordering multiple small sides to sample and share. For those who appreciate cocktail culture, The Copper Onion shines with inventive drinks—like the Emergency Poncho, a mezcal-based concoction with pineapple and spicy ancho reyes—that add a playful and social element to any meetup. The restaurant’s brasserie style means the mood is lively yet relaxed, suitable for celebration or casual get-togethers. This makes it a space where groups can unwind over thoughtfully prepared meals that suit various tastes and diets, strengthening group bonds through shared culinary exploration.
How does the menu at The Copper Onion enhance the group dining experience?
The Copper Onion’s menu thoughtfully enhances the experience of dining with friends or family by offering both timeless favorites and seasonal creativity that appeal to diverse palates. Signature dishes like the ricotta dumplings, beloved since the restaurant’s opening, provide a comforting and communal starter that can be enjoyed by all. Housemade pastas, including the exquisite fettuccine carbonara and wagyu beef stroganoff, bring a sense of indulgence and home-style charm that invites sharing. Beyond mains, the option to order sides family-style encourages conversation and interaction, as guests pass around plates like crispy cauliflower with capers and anchovy breadcrumbs or sweet potato fondant. Entrees spotlight local and quality ingredients such as Niman Ranch lamb and Utah trout, offering guests a taste of elevated regional cuisine. The balanced approach—comfort food with a gourmet touch—means no one in the group feels left out, making it easier to satisfy a variety of preferences and dietary needs while keeping the meal interesting. The Copper Onion’s menu turns dining into a social, shared adventure.
Why is the atmosphere and service ideal for hosting meetups at The Copper Onion?
The Copper Onion’s atmosphere strikes an effective balance between lively energy and a welcoming ambiance, which is crucial when hosting a group meetup. Its interior is stylish yet unpretentious, making it inviting for people who want to enjoy good food without the formality of fine dining. The open kitchen adds an element of theater to the experience, offering a communal vibe as diners can watch chefs prepare their meals with skill and care, enhancing conversation starters among friends. The vibe is upbeat but not noisy to the point of distraction, enabling easy communication. Service has varied in reviews but is frequently highlighted for being knowledgeable and attentive, with servers enthusiastic about menu details and ready to guide groups in pairing dishes and drinks. This level of attentiveness ensures a smooth experience, from accommodating dietary restrictions to managing large orders, which is essential when coordinating with multiple people at one table. Overall, The Copper Onion’s comfortable yet vibrant setting makes it ideally suited for gathering with friends or family to celebrate or just enjoy a great meal together.
What makes The Copper Onion a convenient and accessible venue for group events?
The Copper Onion’s location in downtown Salt Lake City lends it significant convenience for group meetups. It is easily reachable by car and public transportation, ensuring all group members can arrive with minimal hassle. The central setting means it is close to other downtown amenities, making it easy for guests to continue socializing pre- or post-dinner, perhaps catching a movie at nearby Broadway Centre Cinemas or exploring downtown nightlife, creating a full evening experience. The restaurant’s layout includes flexible seating arrangements suited for both intimate groups and larger parties, which facilitates organizing celebrations, business meetups, or casual friend gatherings without feeling cramped. Additionally, the restaurant offers a dynamic yet cozy atmosphere that can transition well from daytime brunch to a sophisticated dinner, helping accommodate meetups at various times of day. Group reservations are taken seriously here, which is vital to avoiding long waits or uncomfortable crowding—helping organizers plan with confidence. This blend of ease of access, versatile dining spaces, and attentive management secures The Copper Onion’s status as an excellent meetup venue in Salt Lake City.
How does The Copper Onion’s culinary philosophy appeal to groups seeking comfort and quality?
At the heart of The Copper Onion’s appeal is a culinary philosophy that emphasizes simplicity, quality, and enjoyment—a perfect fit for groups who want comforting yet refined food without pretense. The kitchen focuses on delivering dishes with fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared thoughtfully, but without overwhelming complexity. This allows diners to appreciate straightforward flavors elevated through technique and care, such as perfectly al dente pastas or delicately seasoned meats paired with interesting sides like barley tabbouleh and roasted carrots. The chef’s approach encourages a relaxed dining pace ideal for conversation and connection around the table. Comfort food classics get an upscale twist, ensuring satisfaction and a sense of indulgence, which suits groups looking for food that feels special but familiar. This culinary stance makes The Copper Onion a safe and inviting choice for hosts wanting to impress without intimidating guests, as the menu combines reliability with occasional surprises, enhancing the relaxed joy of dining together.
What special features does The Copper Onion offer that enhance the social dining experience?
Unique elements of The Copper Onion contribute to an engaging social dining experience, particularly beneficial for groups. The open kitchen is a standout feature, promoting transparency and excitement as diners watch meals being prepared live, making the act of dining more interactive and immersive. This setup invites curiosity and conversation, especially for groups who appreciate culinary craftsmanship. Another feature is the consistent availability of well-crafted cocktails with inventive flavors, providing a fun and social way to start or complement meals—perfect for toasting occasions or just loosening up as a group. The option to order small plates and sides family-style encourages sharing and passing dishes around the table, which strengthens communal vibes and makes the meal dynamic. The restaurant also maintains a lively yet approachable ambiance that feels celebratory without pressure, helping guests feel at ease and connected. Together, these features reinforce The Copper Onion as a venue designed with social dining in mind, making it easier for friends and family to enjoy each other’s company over excellent food and drinks.
How does The Copper Onion cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs within groups?
The Copper Onion’s menu demonstrates an awareness of diverse palates and dietary preferences, an important consideration when hosting groups with varied tastes. Its array of dishes covers a broad spectrum—from vegetarian-friendly options like crispy cauliflower with anchovy breadcrumbs to meat lovers’ favorites such as Niman Ranch lamb and wagyu beef stroganoff. The housemade pastas and fresh seafood selections provide further variety, appealing to both adventurous eaters and those who prefer classic comfort food. Sides served family-style can be mixed and matched to accommodate gluten-free, dairy-free, or other dietary requirements with ease, offering flexibility. The kitchen staff and servers show expertise in guiding guests through the menu to find suitable dishes for individual restrictions or preferences, enhancing the inclusive dining experience. This attentiveness reduces the stress of coordinating meals in a group setting, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. The Copper Onion thus positions itself as a thoughtful choice for meetups where culinary diversity and dietary sensitivity matter.
What overall impression does The Copper Onion leave on groups looking for a memorable dining spot?
Groups dining at The Copper Onion generally leave with a strong impression of warmth, quality, and enjoyment. The restaurant’s blend of an upbeat atmosphere, carefully curated menu, and personable service forms the foundation for gatherings that feel both special and relaxed. Whether it’s a weekend brunch, a celebratory dinner, or a casual meetup, The Copper Onion rises to the occasion by providing food and ambiance that invite connection and contentment. Although some reviews note variability in service or noise levels, the overall consensus reflects a venue that consistently delivers satisfying flavors and a welcoming environment. The possibility to engage with the kitchen, sample varied dishes, and enjoy inventive cocktails creates a multifaceted experience that stays with guests. For groups seeking a location that respects good company as much as good food, The Copper Onion reliably fulfills those expectations. Its reputation and ongoing popularity reaffirm it as a top choice in Salt Lake City’s restaurant scene for hosting memorable meetups with friends and family.