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Ruth's Diner

Ruth's Diner


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This is Chris Redgrave for Zions Bank Speaking on Business.

Ruth Evans has gone down in history as one of Salt Lake City's most memorable restauranteurs. With her grit, hard work and trying to decide if she liked it or not, she created a name for herself. Her restaurant was known for the experience. Her legacy lives on through the restaurant still bearing her name, Ruth's Diner in Emigration Canyon.

Today this operation is owned by Erik and Tracy Nelson. They met back in the 80s while they were both working at Ruth's Diner. Erik says business is getting better every year, with people who can't wait to try one of Utah's oldest restaurants. In the busy season they have 85 employees but that number shrinks once the snow flies. Some are visiting the diner for the first time while others are seasoned guests. Many people come back year after year, another reason why it's becoming a multi-generational diner. It often attracts families visiting Utah's Hogle Zoo just a few miles away.

Ruth's Diner is known for traditional diner fare, comfort food with a little something for everyone on the menu. Breakfast is one of the most popular meals here, with dishes like homemade banana walnut French toast, several different kinds of eggs benedict and biscuits and gravy. You'll also find homemade mac and cheese. Erik says customers love the mile-high biscuits that are four inches tall that come with every meal served.

After being featured on the popular Food Network show, "Diners, Drive-ins and Dives" a few years ago, Ruth's Diner has gained a national following. Tracy says they always know when the show has aired again because there's a run on biscuits and gravy as well as their homemade mac and cheese. Both were featured on the program.

In 2009, the Nelsons remodeled Ruth's Diner, adding in a beautiful patio that nearly doubles the restaurant's space. In the warm months, they have live music five days a week. Their newest venture is to buy the surrounding property and turn it into a grocery store and bistro for residents of Emigration Canyon.

For Zions Bank, I'm Chris Redgrave, speaking on business.

Ruth's Diner 4160 Emigration Canyon Rd. Salt Lake City, UT 84124 801-582-5807 www.ruthsdiner.com

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