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Amazing international cuisine you can find in Utah Valley
Think Utah Valley is all fry sauce and funeral potatoes? Think again.
The local food scene has always been diverse, but international cuisine has quietly gone mainstream over the course of the past few years.
Some of the best restaurants in Utah County are serving up global fare — from sizzling African chicken to creamy Indian and Thai curries, and everything in between.
Don't settle for a fast-food drive-through on your next night out. Try one of these authentic, world-class international restaurants right here in Utah Valley.
You never know when you'll find your new favorite restaurant! Here are eight of the most mouthwatering establishments to put at the top of your list.
The Bombay House (Provo)
For more than three decades, this Provo landmark has served authentic, Bombay and Indian cuisine. Based on nearly 11,000 Google reviews with a 4.9 (out of 5) rating, there is a reason The Bombay House is among Utah County's go-to locations for international cuisine.
"If you're looking for authentic Indian food in a beautiful, comfortable setting, Bombay House in Provo is a gem," wrote one reviewer. "It was a special night made even better by the quality of the meal and the care that went into every detail."
Black Sheep Café (Provo)
Black Sheep Café in Provo has been making waves since opening in 2012. Serving up a fusion of traditional Native American and southwestern food,
Black Sheep is where to go when you want a unique meal that you can rave about to your friends.
Try a starter like the honey lavender frybread or hog jowl nachos, then order traditional Navajo tacos or green chili stew for your main course.
The cactus pear lemonade and sweet potato wedges alone are enough to keep you coming back!
You won't find a dining experience with this particular fusion of flavors anywhere else in Utah or perhaps in the whole country.
Arempa's (Orem)
Head to Arempa's in Orem for a taste of authentic Venezuelan flavor. Known for their handcrafted arepas and empanadas, the menu caters to both meat lovers and vegans.
The bestselling Peluda Arepa is filled with melt-in-your-mouth beef and crisp vegetables, while being naturally gluten-free due to the corn-based recipe.
Everything at Arempa's is made fresh and in-house. It's a flavorful, fast-casual spot that brings a taste of Caracas to Utah County.
Se Llama Peru (Provo)
Se Llama Perú on Center Street in Provo is your ticket to bold, delicious Peruvian eats—no passport required. From juicy Lomo Saltado to authentic ceviche, the flavors are legit.
The restaurant's chef, Luis Rodriguez, came to the United States from Peru 50 years ago and his dishes are fueled by a love of sharing Peruvian cuisine.
It's the kind of spot where you come hungry and leave planning your next visit (and maybe a trip to Lima).
Baan Thai (Lehi)
Located at the Traverse Mountain Outlets in Lehi, Baan Thai is the perfect restaurant for both Thai food newcomers and connoisseurs.
Kylie Moe of Female Foodie blog says Baan Thai is "Hands down the best Thai in the valley, [and] an easy choice for the best restaurants in Utah County."
She recommends the green curry pork dumplings and the chef's kao soi special. Baan Thai's industrial-chic décor and dishes bursting with bright flavors will make for a standout meal.
Asa Ramen (Orem)
An under-the-radar spot, Asa Ramen serves up unforgettable ramen in a cozy setting.
With a small, straightforward menu, diners can choose their ramen based on broth preference. You're guaranteed a steaming bowl filled with creamy broth, al dente noodles, and topped with meat, mushrooms, a soft-boiled egg, and zingy green scallions.
Don't leave without trying the Karaage—crispy fried chicken with lemon and sesame dressing.
Little India (American Fork)
When you're craving rich, creamy, aromatic food, Little India in American Fork is the place to go.
This hidden gem was recently ranked No.19 in Yelp's Top 100 restaurants in America. Its unassuming strip-mall storefront conceals some of the best Indian food in Utah!
Take your pick of staples like their incredible chicken tikka masala or butter chicken, or branch out and try a lamb, seafood, or vegetarian dish. Those with sensitive palates will be happy to know you can customize the spiciness level.
Wash it down with a cool mango lassi or treat yourself to one of their traditional homemade ice creams for dessert. The garlic naan might just be the best you've ever had — really.
Hruska's Kolaches (Provo and American Fork)
So, what the Czech is a kolache? According to the local experts at Hruska's Kolaches, it started out as a piece of bread topped with fruit in Eastern Europe.
Over time the yeasty creation transformed into a savory or sweet pastry. Think berry and cream cheese combinations reminiscent of a Danish, or savory rolls stuffed with bacon, egg, and cheese.
Hruska's famous sausage and gravy-stuffed kolache was even featured on Guy Fieri's Food Network show "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives!"
Stop in and pick up a dozen of the fluffy creations, but make sure to get there early, because the fresh-baked kolaches often sell out early.
Zulu Piri Piri Chicken (Lehi)
Zulu Piri Piri Chicken Grille in Lehi serves up bold, African-inspired flavors with a purpose. Their signature fire-grilled chicken is always juicy, marinated in zesty piri piri sauce, and complemented by sides like sweet potato wedges and African yellow rice.
Beyond the flavorful dishes, each meal supports their "Meal-for-a-Meal" program, helping feed vulnerable children in South Africa. It's a dining experience that satisfies both the palate and the soul.
Find more local restaurants and businesses
Though this list is a short example of the authentic and tasty eats in Utah Valley, there are always more to try!
Visit the Utah Valley Chamber website to find more local restaurants and businesses, and to learn about the benefits of doing business in Utah Valley.
