Michelin-Starred Chef at Deer Valley
Deer Valley Resort’s Taste of Luxury Series continues in 2026 by welcoming Michelin-starred Chef Diego Briones for two unforgettable evenings of Latin-American inspired cuisine this January. From a VIP reception and five-course dinner on January 23 to an intimate hands-on cooking class on January 25, each experience is crafted to delight the senses and ignite creativity in the kitchen.
The culinary team at Deer Valley says, “Join us for an unforgettable culinary experience as part of Deer Valley’s Taste of Luxury Series, featuring Michelin-starred Chef Diego Briones. Events include a VIP reception and five-course dinner at the Bald Mountain Room in Silver Lake Lodge on January 23, and an opportunity to elevate your skills during a hands-on cooking class at The Brass Tag on January 25.”
Diego Briones is a seasoned chef with over 15 years of culinary experience spanning South America, Canada, Europe, and Asia. Hailing from a small village in Chile’s Colchagua Valley, Diego’s eagerness to explore new culinary territories took him across continents, where he showcased his talents in roles ranging from Head Chef at Estado Puro by Paco Roncero in Shanghai, China, to consulting positions in Paris, France. His passion for learning and innovation is evident through his education and international training at renowned establishments such as AT Restaurant in Paris and Dani García Restaurant in Marbella, Spain.
In April 2022, Diego embarked on a new adventure alongside his wife, opening his first restaurant, Z’SOM, in Vienna. There, he brings heart and skill to the plate, creating a unique dining experience that blends Latin American heritage with refined technique and locally sourced ingredients. In 2025, Z’SOM was awarded one Michelin Star, becoming the only Latin American–inspired Michelin-starred restaurant in Central Europe. Diego is one of only five Chilean chefs worldwide to hold a Michelin Star.
For information and pricing of the Diego Briones events at Deer Valley Resort, click here.
NYE at Urban Hill
There is no shortage of tempting New Year’s Eve celebrations at local restaurants in which to ring in the new year. One of the best options – in my opinion – is NYE at Urban Hill.
Executive Chef Nick Zocco’s elevated multi-course tasting menu featuring premium seafood, seasonal vegetables, and expertly sourced meats – along with curated optional wine pairings – looks like a real winner.
Menu highlights include Hiramasa Crudo, Buston’s Day Boat Fresh Scallops, Mishima Wagyu Eye of Ribeye, Grilled Five-Spice Barramundi, Root Vegetable Lasagna, Lobster, Caviar, Black & White Truffles, Foie Gras, Champagne Pavlova, and much more.
The cost for food is $145 per guest, plus $55 for optional Sommelier Selected wine pairings.
Beast From The East Now Open
I am a big fan of Kris Davis’ east coast inspired sandwich shop called The Beast From The East, which was previously located inside of Cruzrs Saloon. You can read my review of The Beast From The East by clicking here.
Well, I am happy to report that Kris and his wife Megan have now moved into a more permanent brick and mortar location at 1702 South Main Street in Salt Lake City – in the space that was formerly home to Loco Burger.
Along with a very legit Philly-style cheesesteak called the JD Philly Cheesesteak, other awesome sandwiches at The Beast From The East include the Camden Chopped Cheese with seared ground beef, caramelized onions, American cheese and condiments; the Subway Screamer with roasted turkey breast, thin red onion, American cheese, iceberg lettuce, pickles, cherry peppers, mayo and fresh cilantro; and a cold sub called The Godfather with Genoa salami, ham, capicola, pepperoni, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion, seasoning, vinegar & olive oil. Kris also features excellent Gerome’s Market sausages in a couple of his sandwiches.
