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4 cyclist-friendly restaurant patios in Salt Lake

These four Salt Lake restaurants have a few things in common: fantastic patios, delicious food, and outdoor racks or deals for cyclists. So ready your two-wheeled steed and round up your bike posse for a long ride and hearty meal as Spring officially kicks off.

 

1. Red Rock Brewing Company

A local’s favorite for 20 years, Red Rock has bike racks located outside the restaurant and a street-front patio that’s perfect for people watching. Visit for Sunday Brunch and enjoy a Mimosa or Bloody Mary for $2 after noon. For lunch or dinner, try the hearty Wild Mushroom Polenta or the Halibut Fish and Chips (fried in Red Rock beer batter of course).

Red Rock’s award-winning ales are the perfect accompaniment to any meal…especially after a tough ride. Try the new limited release 20^th Anniversary Imperial Red Ale while it’s available. If beer’s not your jam, order a frosty glass of homemade root beer or cream soda made from pure cane sugar. Yum!

Plus, Red Rock participates in Bicycle Benefits, a discount program that rewards cyclists at local businesses. Visit bicyclebenefits.org for info or sign up at Red Rock, and you’ll get a 10% discount each time you visit by bike.

254 South 200 West
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
801-521-7446
redrockbrewing.com

 

2. Niche

The close proximity to City Creek Canyon, convenient bike racks, and a shaded patio are reason enough for cyclists to love Niche. But the locally sourced, tasty food is what keeps people coming back. A mouthwatering selection of vegetarian sides like the Warm Quinoa Salad Heirloom Carrots with Tahini Sauce, Roasted Beets with Goat Cheese, and Shaved Brussels Sprouts are standouts on the menu. Pick a few and share between friends as an appetizer. There are plenty of carnivorous choices too: Hawaiian Fish Tacos, Utah Elk Burger, and Corned Beef—just to name a few. Bicycle Benefits members’ get 10% off for cycling there and flashing a member sticker.

779 East 300 South
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
801-433-3380
caffeniche.com

 

3. Blue Star Fresh Juice and Coffee Cafe

 

Situated near Canyon Rim Park along the popular Parleys Creek Bike Trail, Blue Star is a great place to fix a flat or hang out post-ride. Wasatch Bike Support shares a roof with the café and is staffed with knowledgeable technicians who can fix your fixie, even doing minor repairs on the spot while you eat. Blue Star’s recent remodel and updated menu means this neighborhood haunt is better than ever, but I’m still partial to their Breakfast Baninis (Bagel Paninis) that have been on the menu forever. Served hot on local Rich’s Bagels with toppings like egg, vegetarian sausage, ham, cheese, and more, they fill you up and provide sustained energy for the ride home.

As their name suggests, Blue Star is also home to delicious fresh juices like the Cobra—a blend of apple, carrot, beet, and ginger. Fill your mug for free on weekends and receive 10% off on weekdays if you’re a Bicycle Benefits member.

2795 South 2300 East
Canyon Rim, UT 84109
801-466-4280
the-bluestar.com

 

4. Ruth’s Diner

 

Emigration Canyon scenic views and moderate climbs make it a favorite of new and experienced cyclists alike. On your way back down the canyon after reaching the summit, stop for a bite at historic Ruth’s Diner. First opened in 1930, this converted trolley car features a spacious creek-side patio with a breakfast menu that’s as bi as their portion sizes. Bike racks are available, and you can even borrow a bike lock if you forget yours!

Go early for weekday breakfast and Sunday brunch until the weather turns cold. Try affordably-priced classics like the Mile High Biscuits and Country Gravy (just $6.79) or eggs paired with hash browns, half a grapefruit, and pinto beans or Spanish rice for $5.29. Vegan options are also offered. Lunch favorites like the Caprese or Reuben Sandwich or Ruth’s Patio salad are perfect pairings for an afternoon ride. Meals are served with a giant biscuit and fresh raspberry preserves are available tableside. I challenge you to try NOT finishing it.

4160 Emigration Canyon Road
Salt Lake City, UT 84108
801-582-5807
ruthsdiner.com