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SALT LAKE CITY — Salt Lake City is rising in the ranks in almost every way: from food to tech to housing, there are signs of it everywhere. It is a popular place to be which more and more people are discovering.
This is most evident with the food scene, which continues to improve with each return visit. Here are some newer restaurants, (some months old and some a few years old), which have recently made a splash on the Salt Lake City dining scene.
Zao Asian Cafe
Healthy Asian fusion dishes can be found at this fast casual dining spot with a few locations throughout the valley. Picture an Asian version of Chipotle where you go through the line choosing fresh ingredients that are prepared right then and there. Simple choices include Vietnamese-style banh mi sandwiches, tacos, rice bowls, noodle bowls and salads. Protein options include grilled chicken, steak, meatballs, and tofu. Try the tasty tacos or a fresh steak salad with all of the toppings. Find Zao in Salt Lake City, Sandy, Murray, Fort Union, and Lehi (coming soon).
Protein Foundry
This place is proof that the health craze has officially hit Salt Lake City. Utahns may be known for loving their ice cream, but this eatery offers healthy food alternatives that are still filling and delicious. Come here for gourmet toasts, protein shakes, acai and pitaya bowls. Come after a workout or for a healthy lunch. The avocado toast, PB Fit Smoothie and "Rio" acai bowl are the top orders here. The current location is a bit outside of downtown in Cottonwood Heights, but with its soaring popularity, other locations may expand soon.
Spitz SLC
This popular new Mediterranean joint has brought a new flavor to the city. The original founder created the concept after returning from a semester studying abroad in Europe. The classic döner kebab street food was his inspiration and these are now offered along with salads, fries, sandwiches, and wraps. The kebap isn't quite as greasy and indulgent as it would be from a street cart in Europe, but you leave feeling better due to the fresh ingredients. Try the "Street Cart Döner" with sweet potato waffle fries. Locations are found in downtown Salt Lake City and Sugarhouse.
R&R BBQ
This place has claimed the top spot in Utah's best BBQ competition, and is a favorite among many out-of-staters as well. Utah may not be the Deep South, but you could be fooled with the quality of this barbecue. Owned and operated by twin brothers Rod and Roger, the attention to detail and unique offerings here are hard to beat. Along with the classics, try the unique brisket tacos and the beer battered rib. Finish with the peach cobbler for a full comfort food spread. Find R&R in downtown Salt Lake City as well as South Jordan.
Even Stevens Sandwiches
Last but not least, try out this sandwich spot with a good cause attached. With each delicious sandwich purchased, a sandwich is donated to surrounding nonprofits for those in need. From the "Sprang Chicken" sandwich to the "Mihami Vice," the sandwiches are unique, decadent and delicious. It's expanding quickly and for good reason. Find these sandwiches Downtown, in Sugar House, Draper, St. George, Ogden, and Logan.
Emi Rigby lives in San Francisco and documents her travels around the world on her food & travel blog WellTraveledWife.com.