A year-round resort community, the Old Town area of Park City, Utah, is perfect for those who want to get away from their daily routines and indulge in world-class shopping, luxury accommodations, and fascinating history. It’s also a wonderful place to buy a vacation home so you can experience all the amenities and activities anytime you choose. Whether you are in the area for a vacation or you’re looking for properties to invest in, you’ll have to save some time to visit the best restaurants for a fantastic meal. The majority of great restaurants in Old Town are on Historic Main Street, which is packed with not only unique eateries but also fun places to shop. Ready to plan your culinary adventure? Consider adding these spots to your list.
The Cabin
Home of the elkupine (yes, that’s a combination of an elk and a porcupine), The Cabin is the perfect spot to meet friends for some cocktails, live music, and delicious food. The dining area exudes relaxed mountain vibes with its exposed wood and rustic decor (though there are also TVs so you can catch your favorite game). As for the menu, expect flatbreads, wings, jalapeno poppers, sandwiches, pasta dishes, and salads. You can also get brunch options like chicken and waffles and breakfast burritos at any time during the day or evening. Save room for the carrot cake; it may be the only dessert on the menu, but that’s apparently for a good reason!
501 on Main
With their seasonal, American Regional cuisine, 501 on Main is a go-to for many foodies in the Park City area. Open every day for lunch and dinner and for brunch on the weekends, 501 Main is the epitome of Park City life. Their revolving dining room helps you take in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Town and their carefully developed menu continues to create more and more loyal customers. Popular dishes include the Park City Poutine, bison chili, smoked reuben, Main Street flatiron steak, and seasonal pasta. To complement your meal, choose from 501’s sustainably sourced, organic wines, craft beer selection, or choose one of their hand-shaken cocktails.
Butcher’s Chophouse and Bar
If you’re craving a good steak, head to one of the premier restaurants in Old Town: Butcher’s Chophouse and Bar. The classic steakhouse atmosphere is perfect for a date night, special occasions, or you can choose to sit on the patio if you want a more casual dinner while enjoying the weather. Just want a drink? You can settle into the wood-paneled whisky bar that’s open to all those 21 and older. As for menu options, expect to see beef short ribs, prime rib roast, chicken fried chicken, and Alaskan king crab legs. Located in the Caledonian Hotel at the base of the Town Lift, Butcher’s is a must-stop whether you’re in town to ski or just to see the sights.
Firewood on Main
There’s nothing like a good fire-cooked meal–no matter what the season! At Firewood on Main, you can enjoy some of the finest locally sourced foods cooked over a wood fire, all in a trendy industrial atmosphere. Open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday, Firewood on Main serves up first courses like empanadas, pork belly, and smoked trout toast followed by second courses such as beets and brie and cucumber melon salad. The main course is a small but carefully selected menu of delicious dishes like elk loin, scallops, and lamb chops, all served with perfectly paired accompaniments. Make your reservations early so you don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind dining experience!
Purple Sage
The name Purple Sage may sound more vegan than American West, but you’ll find some of the most delicious seafood, meats, and cheeses at this unique restaurant located in the Rocky Mountain Bell telephone building. House specialties include the meatloaf, fresh Utah trout, and local free range beef. You can also snack on their artisan charcuterie board or chicken tamale pancakes while enjoying a non-alcoholic Jones soda or glass of wine or cocktail. The small dining area makes for an intimate eating experience, perfect for a dinner with your significant other or best friend.
Wasatch Brew Pub
When trying to choose one of the restaurants in Old Town to dine at, don’t overlook the local brewpub. Wasatch, the award-winning brewery headquartered in Salt Lake City, serves up their famous local brews here in Old Town along with a full menu of delicious dishes. You can sip on a Squatters Our Share IPA, or skip the beer altogether and try a craft cocktail like the Treasure Mountain or glass of wine. While you sample your favorite beverages, peruse the food menu packed with tasty options like rice bowls, tacos, burgers, veggie sandwiches, pizza, and grilled salmon. If you just want some apps to go with your beer, there are plenty of those as well, some of the most popular being the Brewhouse Hummus and the hand-breaded fried pickles.
Chimayo
Craving a little something spicy to keep you warm on the slopes? Head on over to Chimayo for some south of the border fare! The festive decor and fun lighting instantly put you in the mood for a margarita when you walk in the door. Fortunately, Chimayo has plenty of margaritas to choose from, including the Chica Flaca, House, and Serrano Chili, as well as a large selection of wines and bottled beer. After ordering your beverage, turn to the food menu so you can start with an app like the queso fundido or elk skewers. Don’t fill up on appetizers, though, as you’ll need to save room for the fantastic main entrees. Favorites include the ahi tuna tacos, pepita crusted Chilean sea bass, and the duck enchiladas.
Whether you’re in Park City to ski, visit friends or family, or look for a vacation home, you’ll need to hit Old Town for excellent shops and world-class eats. Decided you want to look for a house here but have not yet chosen a real estate agent? Reach out to experienced local agent Tara Vaught for expert guidance and to see what’s on the market.