Finding the perfect place to celebrate a very special occasion such as a wedding anniversary can be tricky, as well as finding the perfect 25th anniversary gift. Luckily, Salt Lake City is host to a number of excellent restaurants that, along with outstanding food and service, also provide a backdrop – awesome ambiance – that your special night requires. If you’re looking to celebrate your anniversary, these excellent establishments have your back.
One of the newer restaurants to open in Salt Lake City – and it made quite a splash – is La Trattoria di Francesco. This opulent eatery was conceived and created by Giusseppe Mirenda and his family, founders of the very popular Sicilia Mia group of restaurants. The restaurant itself is gorgeous, adorned with overstuffed chairs that would make Louis XV feel right at home.
Not surprisingly, the Italian cuisine at Trattoria de Francesco is every bit as eye-popping as the restaurant itself. Menu items range from veal carpaccio and grilled octopus in fava cream, to a range of fresh-made pastas, and a “carne” selection that includes a 24K gold-wrapped tomahawk steak with truffles.
If you’re looking for something a little more rustic, Log Haven restaurant has the right stuff. Situated in a historic log mansion in the Wasatch National Forest, it’s hard to believe that Log Haven is just minutes up scenic Millcreek Canyon from bustling Salt Lake City. Named “Top 10 Romantic Restaurants in the U.S.” by USA Today and “America’s Most Scenic Restaurants” (as featured in Forbes), this hidden gem of a restaurant has garnered countless awards and accolades. It’s no wonder that it’s a prime destination for anniversaries, weddings, and other special occasions.
Surrounded by streams, a pond, and waterfalls – and offering spectacular mountain views – Log Haven’s cuisine is second to none in Utah. Longtime Executive Chef Dave Jones creates unique dishes that are all-American, but with inspiration from Asia, Mexico, and elsewhere. Tuna tartare is a perfect dish to kick off a special meal with, followed perhaps by grilled bison teres major steak; chipotle-honey glazed salmon; seared scallops with shiitake dashi, stir fried shiitakes, baby bok choy daikon salad, and grilled rice cake; or applewood bacon-wrapped elk striploin. Be sure to order the heavenly frozen coconut-banana souffle for dessert.
Looking for something a bit more urban? Caffe Molise, located in the historic Eagle Fraternity Building in downtown Salt Lake City, is one of the most beautiful restaurants in which to have a special celebration. Serving fresh Italian cuisine inspired by Italy’s Molise region, Caffe Molise offers killer cuisine in a posh but comfy ambiance.
Sip a cold glass of Prosecco while enjoying the restaurant’s artisanal cheese and meat board, bruschetta misto, or maybe butternut squash ravioli in garlic-brown butter sauce. Chef/Owner Fred Moesinger is known for his flawless traditional lasagna and well as dishes such as fresh-made gnocchi in tomato-cream sauce, or his hearty pappardelle al sugo – fresh pappardelle pasta tossed with a slow-cooked pork, beef and tomato sauce.
How about a room with a view? The Roof Restaurant is located on the 10th floor of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, overlooking Temple Square and with spectacular views far beyond the city.
The Roof offers a stunning buffet dining experience which includes a renowned dessert selection that people travel long distances to enjoy. Take in a beautiful sunset while exploring buffet items like charcuterie, fresh salads, carved meats, Creole blackened chicken, pan-seared salmon with blood orange gastrique, and an eye-popping array of sweet temptations.
Located at the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon, La Caille restaurant is located on 20 gorgeous acres of prime Utah real estate, complete with a three-acre vineyard. This spectacular setting gives guests a little taste of France with its chateau-like building and cuisine to match.
To wit, how about classic escargot and a glass of bubbly before launching into La Caille’s bodacious bouillabaisse or potato-crusted sea bass. The Mediterranean-style steamed mussels are marvelous, as is the grilled filet mignon with truffle potato pave. Be sure to leave time to stroll among the gorgeous gardens before or after dinner.
Happy Anniversary!
