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Cheap eats in Salt Lake City

The best places to eat well in Salt Lake City without blowing the trip budget — meals under $15, food halls, and lunch specials.

Salt Lake City, UT, USA· Airport: SLC
Salt Lake City — Cheap eats | CheapoTrav travel guide

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Phone-only fares for Salt Lake City, 24/7.

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Key facts

  • Lunch specials at downtown Salt Lake City establishments are frequently 30-40% cheaper than dinner entrees.
  • Food halls like The Gateway and Station Park offer diverse vendors, allowing groups to share costs or try multiple cuisines.
  • Farmers markets (seasonal) often feature prepared foods from local chefs at competitive prices.
  • Many local bakeries and delis provide affordable, substantial sandwich or salad options for lunch.
  • University neighborhoods near the University of Utah frequently have budget-friendly restaurants catering to students.
  • Grocery stores in Salt Lake City are well-stocked with deli items and prepared foods suitable for picnic-style meals.

Salt Lake City offers a variety of affordable dining options if you know where to look. Beyond the downtown core, you’ll find neighborhoods with independent eateries catering to a diverse local population. Exploring these areas can lead to some of the city’s best value meals, often with a unique culinary twist.

While fine dining is available, many establishments focus on casual, hearty fare that won't strain your travel budget. Look for places popular with university students or local workers during lunch hours, as these often provide substantial portions at lower price points. Don't overlook the potential for a quality, inexpensive meal from ethnic markets or bakeries that serve hot food.

Consider timing your meals strategically. Many restaurants, especially those catering to the business crowd, offer lunch specials that are significantly less expensive than their dinner counterparts. Early bird specials or happy hour menus, where available, can also provide an opportunity to sample a wider range of dishes for less. Even if a sit-down meal isn't in the cards, Salt Lake City has plenty of options for quick, budget-friendly bites.

Exploring Salt Lake City's food scene on a budget is quite feasible with a bit of planning and an open mind. For personalized recommendations tailored to your trip, consider consulting with a travel agent.

In this guide

  • Food halls in Salt Lake City
  • Lunch specials
  • Street food
  • Local-favorite cheap eats
  • Tips to eat well for less

Frequently asked questions

What neighborhoods in Salt Lake City are best for finding cheap eats?
For budget-friendly meals in Salt Lake City, consider exploring the 9th and 9th neighborhood, known for its independent cafes and eateries. The area around the University of Utah also caters to students with numerous affordable options. Additionally, parts of West Valley City, easily accessible from downtown, offer a concentration of diverse, inexpensive ethnic restaurants, particularly Mexican and Asian cuisines. Venture beyond the immediate downtown core to find better value.
Are there any good food trucks or street food options in Salt Lake City?
Yes, Salt Lake City has a growing food truck scene, especially during warmer months. You'll often find food trucks clustered at events, festivals, or specific parks. Check local event listings or apps that track food truck locations. The Downtown Farmers Market at Pioneer Park (Saturdays, summer/fall) is a reliable spot to find a variety of food vendors and trucks offering prepared meals and snacks at reasonable prices. While not as prevalent as in some larger cities, they offer good value.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares
Can I find cheap breakfast options in Salt Lake City?
Absolutely. Many local diners and cafes throughout Salt Lake City offer classic, affordable breakfast menus. Look for establishments outside the immediate tourist zones. Even some larger grocery stores have in-store cafes or delis with inexpensive breakfast sandwiches or pastries. Coffee shops, independent or chains, also provide quick and budget-conscious breakfast items like bagels, muffins, or breakfast burritos. Many hotels include breakfast, which can further reduce costs.
What's the best way to save money on drinks in Salt Lake City?
To save on drinks in Salt Lake City, utilize tap water, which is safe to drink and readily available. Many restaurants will provide it automatically or upon request. If you're looking for alcoholic beverages, consider visiting during happy hour specials offered by various bars and restaurants. Alternatively, purchasing beverages from grocery stores or convenience stores to consume in your accommodation can be significantly cheaper than buying individual drinks at bars or restaurants. Pack a reusable water bottle for daily hydration.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares
Are there vegetarian or vegan cheap eats easily found in Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City has a surprising number of options for vegetarian and vegan diners, including budget-friendly choices. Many ethnic restaurants, particularly Indian, Mexican, and some Asian eateries, offer extensive meat-free selections that are often among their most affordable dishes. Look for dedicated vegetarian/vegan cafes or restaurants that frequently have value-focused lunch menus. Food halls also often include vendors with plant-based options that can be mixed and matched for a cost-effective meal.
Should I bring snacks or groceries to Salt Lake City to save money?
Bringing some non-perishable snacks and instant breakfast items can certainly help reduce your food budget in Salt Lake City, especially if you're staying in accommodation with kitchen access. There are also several large grocery stores within and around the city, like Smith's, Harmons, and Target, where you can purchase groceries, pre-made meals, or deli items at reasonable prices. Utilizing these resources for some of your meals can lead to substantial savings compared to eating out for every meal.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares

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