Nestled between the hustle of Sugar House and the serene greens of Forest Dale Golf Course sits one of Salt Lake City’s most surprisingly delightful dining destinations—Forest Dale. With tree-lined streets and an old-school neighborhood feel, this pocket of SLC has quietly cultivated a food scene full of warmth, creativity, and deep local pride. Whether you’re craving a gourmet breakfast, artisan pastries, or global street eats, Forest Dale offers up plates as inviting as its historic homes. Let’s dig into the must-try spots that define this flavorful neighborhood!
A Rising Hub of Culinary Diversity
Forest Dale’s food scene stretches along 900 East and 2100 South, with clusters of gems within walkable blocks. Here, longtime family diners rub elbows with hip cafés, and hole-in-the-wall bakeries stand shoulder to shoulder with food trucks slinging bold flavors. The magic of Forest Dale? You get genuine, owner-driven experiences—most spots are run by locals who care about the community as much as their menu.
Breakfast & Brunch — The Most Important Meal (Done Right)
Is there anything better than starting your day with a killer breakfast? Forest Dale chefs don’t think so.
- Pig & a Jelly Jar (401 E 900 S)
An SLC brunch icon and a staple at the edge of Forest Dale, Pig & a Jelly Jar’s creative Southern comforts draw citywide crowds. Dig into their famous chicken and waffles, or try the root beer-glazed ham with eggs—everything tastes better with one of their house-made jams. Expect a lively vibe and mid-range prices ($10-$18 entrees).
- Hub & Spoke Diner (1291 S 1100 E, just up from the neighborhood)
While a smidge outside technical Forest Dale borders, this bright, retro diner remains a breakfast pilgrimage. They wow with breakfast poutine, lemon-ricotta pancakes, and vegan scrambles. Brunch cocktails seal the deal. Entrees run $8-$17.
- Original Pancake House (790 E 2100 S)
Just a few steps from Forest Dale Park, this cozy spot has legendary Dutch babies and seriously fluffy pancakes, making it a favorite for families and classic breakfast lovers alike. Prices stay friendly ($7–$14).
Lunch Bites & Casual Classics
Between errands or after a bike ride along the Parley’s Trail, these lunch spots hit the sweet (and savory) spot.
- The Dodo Restaurant (1355 E 2100 S)
A Forest Dale classic that blends nostalgia with modern American flair. Known for Turkish-style sandwiches, hearty salads, and their Banana Cream Cheese Pie—a dessert that might change your life. Atmosphere is bustling but cozy. Mains fall between $13 and $19.
- Feldman’s Deli (2005 E 2700 S)
Consider this your destination for Jewish deli perfection. Stuffed pastrami sandwiches, matzo ball soup, and black-and-white cookies—all as good as East Coast originals. Lunches are hefty ($12-$16 for giant sandwiches).
- Tosh’s Ramen (1963 S 1100 E)
Just on Forest Dale’s border, this simple storefront serves some of SLC’s best ramen bowls. The miso and spicy tonkotsu broths are soul-warming, and their house-pickled eggs are a treat. $13–$16 for a filling meal.
Artisanal Bakeries & Sweet Treat Havens
Pastry and dessert lovers, rejoice: Forest Dale’s European-inspired bakeries and inventive ice cream shops deserve their own tour.
- Tulie Bakery (863 E 700 S)
Coffee and croissants in a sunlit space—what more do you need? Locals swear by the morning buns and olive oil cake, and their savory baguette sandwiches make for quick, perfect lunches. Expect $4–$8 for most bakery treats.
- Normal Ice Cream (in the Maven West complex, 156 S 900 E)
Don’t let the name fool you—Normal’s soft-serve and whimsical dipped cones are anything but. Seasonal flavors like honeycomb and peanut butter & jelly, plus house-made sprinkles, make each cone Instagram-worthy. Cones run $5–$8.
International Eats: Street Food & Neighborhood Essentials
The Forest Dale area is a quiet haven for global bites, many of which are hidden in unassuming strip malls or parked as food trucks.
- El Toro Viejo Taco Truck (often parked at 2100 S & 900 E)
A longtime secret favorite for locals, this food truck’s carne asada tacos and horchata keep the lines steady. Turn up at lunch to enjoy $2.50 tacos served fast and friendly.
- Curry in a Hurry (2020 S State St, technically just beyond Forest Dale, but a go-to for residents)
This family-run Indian joint is famous for fast, affordable ($9–$12) curry bowls and killer samosas. The lamb curry is a must.
- Pho Tay Ho (1766 S Main St)
Not flashy, but consistently the best pho around. Deep, aromatic broths and generous portions for under $12. Perfect on a chilly day.
Coffee Spots & Community Cafés
Whether remote working or just unwinding with friends, Forest Dale’s coffee scene is all about genuine hospitality.
- Beans & Brews (900 E & 2100 S)
A Utah classic, this flagship café is always buzzing with neighbors. Great lattes, local pastries, and reliably strong coffee.
- Mestizo Coffeehouse (631 W North Temple, a short drive but a favorite for Forest Dale regulars)
A mix of coffee shop, art space, and cultural hub—try their Mexican hot chocolate and homemade pastries. Prices are affordable ($3–$7).
Hidden Gems & Local Food Traditions
The real treasure of Forest Dale’s dining? Its sense of history and discovery. Look for new street food pop-ups near Forest Dale Park during summer, from wood-fired pizza trucks to seasonal farmers markets offering fresh-baked bread and local honey. Don’t miss the Spring Neighborhood Cook-Off, where Forest Dale home chefs battle for barbecue bragging rights—a beloved (and delicious) tradition.
Why Forest Dale’s Food Scene Shines
What makes this neighborhood so compelling is the heart behind each bite. Many Forest Dale restaurants source from nearby farms, and it’s easy to strike up conversation with owners or chefs passionate about feeding their neighbors. So whether you’re hunting for the “next big thing” or a comforting plate that tastes like home, Forest Dale serves up authenticity and flavor in every forkful.
Pack your appetite and explore—Salt Lake City’s Forest Dale has a table waiting, with some of Utah’s best food ready to share.