By Andrew Thompson Landerghini
If you followed the playoff run by the Utah Jazz this year, you probably heard members of the Golden State Warriors lamenting about Salt Lake City’s lack of nightlife. While locals know that there’s plenty to do in SLC after dark, the claim compelled the Jazz to respond with this T-shirt. And it piqued our curiosity on the favorite downtown haunts of our students, staff and faculty.
Some of the establishments that stood out were Kilby Court (great live music and all ages), Keys on Main (a piano bar on, you guessed it, Main Street), Bar X (a swanky martini joint owned by Ty Burrell from “Modern Family”), The Rest (a subterranean speakeasy with artisan cocktails and delectable dining underneath Bodega on Main) and Nostalgia Coffee.
While all great recommendations, we also wanted some input from Lassonde startup The Society, which is a rewards program card for Salt Lake City bars, restaurants and concert venues. Here are some of their top spots.
Urban Lounge
This live music venue is probably one of the best spots in Salt Lake to grab a brew and enjoy some tunes. Most nights of the week they have great touring acts or local groups performing for quality prices, which makes this an awesome place to rock out with friends. The intimate atmosphere could only be rivaled by Metro Music Hall — a slightly more party-ready and event-diverse location, also owned by the same rad dudes, Lance Saunders and Will Sartain.
Our perk:
Two-for-one ticket deal for all shows. Valid on the day of the show. Show must not be sold out.
Address: 241 S. 500 East, Salt Lake City
Bambara
This sit-down restaurant pairs an extremely chic vibe with equally delicious food. And what pairs better with those two things than a high-end bar? We couldn’t tell you. If the beauty of arched windows, brass accents and marble aren’t enough to sate you, just wait until your meal arrives. The price is worth the bliss.
Our perk:
Saturdays and Sundays, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. get a free French pressed Publik Coffee or a fresh pressed juice.
Monday-Sunday, 5:30-10 p.m. get a free blue cheese chip appetizer.
Address: 202 S. Main St., Salt Lake City
Twist
Have you ever been in a repurposed, 19th century boiler room? If you answered no, then your priorities may be a little twisted. Not only is this a cool place to meet up with friends, but it also has a fun social atmosphere, great food and delectable drinks. With over 40 local and craft brews to choose from, you’re sure to find something to complement your flavor-packed meal.
Our perk:
Anytime: 25-percent off dine-in food. One item per Society Card.
Address: 32 E. Exchange Pl., Salt Lake City
Piper Down
Didn’t anyone ever tell you not to judge a book by its cover? Expand your horizons by giving this classic Irish pub a chance. They have a huge outdoor patio, live music, don’t-miss events and more. It is well worth the trip and very likely your new St. Paddy’s Day tradition.
Our perk:
Two-for-one food menu items before 7 p.m.
Free cover before 10 p.m.
Address: 1492 S. State St., Salt Lake City
Downstairs
Leave your prospecting tools at home, there’s already a hidden gem of a nightclub waiting for you in Park City. The live artists they host almost every weekend are sure to entertain a group of two or 20 so be sure to bring your friends. As if the cool, speakeasy vibe weren’t enough on its own.
Our perk:
Free entry every night of operation (excluding special events).
Address: 625 Main St., Park City
SKY SLC
Whoever says Salt Lake has no nightlife has clearly never visited this revolutionary venue. The three floors of this elite club could easily rival any other renowned entertainment facility around. Indeed, they often see some of the best DJs from around the world.
Our perk:
$5 off Therapy Thursday door ticket
Free admission every Saturday with a +2 before 11 p.m.
Address: 149 W. Pierpont Ave., Salt Lake City
Brewvies
You’ve got your popcorn in one hand, adult beverage in the other and the latest film to grace the big screen playing in front of you. There’s a reason this is a well-known local classic. With the events and films going on and stellar food and drink options, you’ll have plenty of reasons to keep coming back.
Our perk:
Free small popcorn
Address: 677 S. 200 West, Salt Lake City
The Society
By now, you’ve definitely added a place or two to your list of must-dos. Why not join The Society and make sure you have access to exclusive perks you can’t get anywhere else? Your card practically pays for itself quicker than you’d think and since it’s a one-time fee for a lifetime of inclusion with an ever-increasing number of locations. After all, the best part of the day is the night.
Our perk:
VIP access to great nightlife locations
Address: Always expanding
Location excerpts written by Morgan Parent