Restaurants Near Eccles Theater Salt Lake City

Okay, let's be honest. I just spent three hours arguing with a robot about the merits of pineapple on pizza. Seriously. It’s a surprisingly passionate debate, and honestly, I’m still not entirely convinced. But it got me thinking about something totally different: where to eat before or after seeing a show at the Eccles Theater in Salt Lake City.

The Eccles is a gorgeous building, right? All ornate and dramatic, like it's about to host a royal wedding or a ridiculously over-the-top opera. And you want to look your best, don’t you? You don’t want to be fiddling with a rumpled napkin during Act Two. So naturally, finding a good spot nearby is crucial. I’ve been exploring the area around the theater for a while now, and let me tell you – it’s got more to offer than just greasy spoons (though, hey, some people like those!).

Downtown Delights: Restaurants Close to the Eccles

Let’s start with the obvious: downtown Salt Lake City is brimming with choices. You’re going to be spoiled for decision-making. The area around the Eccles is walkable, which is a major plus. But “walkable” can mean a lot of things, so let's break it down by vibe and budget.

Upscale & Fancy (Prepare to Spend)

If you’re after a truly special occasion meal, you've got a couple of serious contenders. Dombrero’s Mexican Restaurant is about a 10-minute walk – definitely worth it for some amazing margaritas and seriously good food. They've got a great patio too, if the weather's nice. Then there's The Copper Onion, a little bit further (maybe 15-20 minutes), but consistently excellent American fare.

Reservations are highly recommended for both of these, especially on performance nights. Seriously, don't show up without one unless you're okay with eating at the bar. And let's be real, who wants to eat at the bar before a show? It's a vibe thing, people.

Mid-Range & Delicious (Good Balance)

For something in the sweet spot, check out High Royale Burgers. It’s incredibly popular, and for good reason – their burgers are massive and delicious. It’s a slightly longer walk (around 20-25 minutes), so factor that in, especially if you're not used to a lot of walking. They also have great fries and shakes!

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Red Iguana is another consistently excellent option – though be prepared for a wait, even with a reservation. The Mole Poblano is legendary, and the atmosphere is buzzing. Honestly, sometimes the wait is half the fun. They’re about a 15-minute stroll, and they're famous for a reason.

Quick & Casual (Perfect for a Pre-Show Snack)

Let’s be real, sometimes you just need a quick bite before the curtain rises. For that, I’d suggest Pie Face. It’s a classic, and they do pie really well. It’s a short, easy walk - about 5-10 minutes.

There are also plenty of coffee shops and smaller cafes around – perfect for grabbing a pastry and a latte. Seriously, a good coffee can make or break a pre-theater experience. Don't underestimate the power of caffeine.

Beyond the Immediate Area – A Little Further Out

Okay, if you’re willing to drive a bit (10-15 minutes tops), you open up even more possibilities. Library Coffee + Beer, a short drive, offers a surprisingly good selection of both coffee and craft beers. It’s a cool, slightly hipster vibe, and it’s a solid option for a more relaxed meal.

TIN ANGEL AT THE ECCLES THEATER - Updated June 2025 - 424 Photos & 475

And if you’re feeling adventurous, there’s a surprisingly vibrant food scene just a bit further out – explore State Street! But seriously, for sheer convenience, sticking to the downtown area is generally your best bet. You want to minimize stress before a performance, right?

Tips for Planning Your Dinner

First, make a reservation. Seriously. It’s not a suggestion; it's a survival tactic. Second, check the restaurant's distance from the Eccles – use Google Maps or a similar app. Third, consider the type of food you're craving and your budget.

Finally, factor in travel time – especially if you're walking. Don't risk being late for the show because you decided to linger over dessert. And remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the performance!

So, there you have it – a quick guide to the best restaurants near the Eccles Theater. Now, go forth and conquer your dining choices. And maybe, just maybe, put pineapple on your pizza. (Just kidding... mostly.)