SLC’s award-winning Wild Grape Bistro

November 1, 5:31 PMSalt Lake City Lunch ExaminerHeather King

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Chef Phelix Gardner describes The Wild Grape’s cuisine as New West but utilizing old world cooking techniques—meaning that items are made from scratch and feature seasonal ingredients from local producers prepared in a “bold, maverick spirit”.

This seems an appropriate description given that everything at The Wild Grape offers a twist on the original. For example, the grilled cheese sandwich is brie and smoked gouda with roasted tomatoes on olive bread ($8). A delightful, modern representation of everyone’s favorite childhood grilled cheese sandwiches. Similarly, the Morgan Valley lamb burger ($12) is served with a tomato and feta jam that adds a real kick to an otherwise simple (but good) burger. The butternut squash soup is a staple on the menu for good reason—a perfect combination of sweet and savory and is offered with any sandwich on the menu. The petite grape salad or house-cut fries are also available.

Other tempting lunch entrees include the tempura butternut squash ($14) served over butternut risotto or the Morgan Valley lamb sugo ($15) over papardelle pasta which is a flavorful, generous dish and can fill up a big eater. A two-course business lunch special for $10.50 is also offered Monday-Friday and changes daily.

Many first-time Wild Grape diners will visit with a tinge of sadness that Avenues Bakery is gone but whether with a party of two or a party of eight, Wild Grape is welcoming and the servers are friendly and knowledgeable. One item of note however, is that the servers tend to recommend all of the most expensive items on the menu and wine list. While it may be true that the best things are usually the most expensive, it’s good to be mindful of the budget-conscious at least.

There is a full bar available and seasonal drink specials are interesting and delicious. Try the pumpkin spice martini with vanilla vodka and pumpkin puree or the house bacon-infused whiskey (which involves pouring actual bacon grease into the whiskey!).

The Wild Grape is open Monday and Tuesday 11 am-10 pm, Wednesday through Friday 11 am-midnight, Saturday 9 am-midnight and Sunday 9 am-10 pm.

Contact Information:
The Wild Grape New West Bistro
481 E. South Temple
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
801-746-5565