Top 5 local favorite breakfast spots in Salt Lake City to fuel up before your sightseeing tour
Salt Lake City, nestled between the majestic Wasatch Mountains and the Great Salt Lake, offers a breakfast scene as diverse and vibrant as its landscapes. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, starting your day with a hearty meal is a tradition here. From classic American diners to innovative eateries, the city caters to every palate. Here are some of the top breakfast spots you shouldn’t miss:
1. Ruth’s Diner
Established in 1930, Ruth’s Diner is a cherished institution located in Emigration Canyon. As Utah’s second-oldest restaurant, it exudes a nostalgic charm with its vintage trolley car setting and canyon vistas. The menu features a blend of classic and contemporary dishes, all prepared with a touch of local flair.
Must-Try Dishes:
• Pulled Pork Benedict: A delectable twist on the traditional eggs Benedict, featuring tender pulled pork atop an English muffin, crowned with poached eggs and rich hollandaise sauce.
• Mile-High Biscuits and Country Gravy: Fluffy, buttery biscuits smothered in savory country gravy—a comforting classic that never disappoints.
• Huevos Rancheros: A flavorful Mexican-inspired breakfast with eggs, black beans, cheese, and salsa atop crispy tortillas.
• Pancakes: Light and fluffy, served with butter and syrup, these pancakes are a breakfast staple.
• Fresh-Squeezed Orange Juice: A refreshing accompaniment to any meal, made from freshly squeezed oranges.
Fun Fact: Ruth’s Diner has been featured on the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” highlighting its enduring appeal and delicious offerings.
2. Blue Plate Diner
Since 2000, Blue Plate Diner has been a beloved spot for breakfast enthusiasts. Its retro decor, complete with vintage memorabilia, creates a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere. The diner prides itself on serving hearty, made-from-scratch meals that cater to a diverse clientele.
Must-Try Dishes:
• Corned Beef Hash: House-made corned beef mixed with potatoes and onions, topped with eggs cooked to your liking.
• Huevos Rancheros: A flavorful Mexican-inspired breakfast with eggs, black beans, cheese, and salsa atop crispy tortillas.
• Breakfast Burritos: Blue Plate Diner offers a variety of breakfast burritos, including options like the Black Bean Breakfast Burrito, Chicken Verde Breakfast Burrito, and Pork Chili Verde Breakfast Burrito
Fun Fact: Blue Plate Diner has been featured on the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” showcasing its eclectic menu and welcoming vibe.
3. Banbury Cross Donuts
For those seeking a quick yet indulgent breakfast, Banbury Cross Donuts has been a go-to destination since 1986. This family-owned bakery is renowned for its fresh, hand-crafted donuts that have delighted generations of Salt Lake City residents.
Must-Try Items:
• Maple Bar: A fluffy, yeast-raised bar topped with a rich maple glaze—a customer favorite.
• Buttermilk Bar: A dense, cake-like donut with a tangy flavor, finished with a sweet glaze.
• Apple Fritter: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, filled with chunks of apple and cinnamon.
• Chocolate Cake Donut: A moist, chocolatey treat perfect for chocoholics.
Fun Fact: Banbury Cross Donuts has been consistently voted as having the best donuts in Salt Lake City, a testament to its enduring quality and popularity.
4. Market Street Grill
Established in 1980, Market Street Grill has been a cornerstone of Salt Lake City’s dining scene for over four decades. Known for its fresh seafood and classic American fare, the restaurant offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. While it has gained acclaim for its lunch and dinner offerings, Market Street Grill also serves a noteworthy breakfast menu that caters to both locals and visitors.
Must-Try Dishes:
• Market Street Eggs Benedict: A classic breakfast dish featuring poached eggs and Canadian bacon atop an English muffin, all generously covered in a rich hollandaise sauce.
• Crab Omelette: A fluffy omelette filled with fresh crab meat, providing a delightful seafood twist to a breakfast staple.
• Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Thick slices of cinnamon roll bread dipped in a sweet batter and grilled to perfection, offering a decadent start to the day.
• Seafood Frittata: An Italian-style omelette loaded with a medley of fresh seafood, vegetables, and cheese, baked to a golden finish.
Fun Fact: Market Street Grill is renowned for serving some of the best clam chowder in Salt Lake City, a testament to its commitment to quality seafood.
5. Red Iguana
For those craving a Mexican breakfast experience, Red Iguana stands out as a premier destination in Salt Lake City. Established in 1985, this family-owned restaurant has garnered acclaim for its authentic Mexican cuisine, particularly its rich and diverse moles. The vibrant atmosphere and flavorful dishes make it a must-visit spot for breakfast enthusiasts.
Must-Try Dishes:
• Huevos Rancheros: Two eggs over easy served on lightly fried corn tortillas, smothered with a choice of red or green salsa, and accompanied by refried beans and rice.
• Chilaquiles: Crispy tortilla chips sautéed with red or green salsa, topped with melted cheese, onions, sour cream, and two eggs any style.
• Breakfast Burrito: A large flour tortilla filled with scrambled eggs, chorizo, potatoes, and cheese, served with a side of salsa.
• Mexican Hot Chocolate: A rich and spicy beverage made
Embarking on a sightseeing tour is an excellent way to kick off your visit to Salt Lake City. These guided excursions offer a comprehensive overview of the city’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems, providing valuable insights that you might miss when exploring on your own. Knowledgeable local guides share engaging stories, historical context, and humorous anecdotes, enriching your understanding of the city’s rich heritage and vibrant culture. This immersive experience allows you to focus on the panoramic views through the tour’s expansive windows, ensuring you don’t miss any of the city’s scenic beauty. By the end of the tour, you’ll have a clearer idea of which attractions pique your interest, enabling you to plan your subsequent visits more efficiently. Starting your journey with a guided tour sets a positive tone for your stay, offering both education and entertainment in a relaxed setting.
