One taco counter in this city keeps its doors open until 5 AM, seven days a week. That one detail alone made me sit straight up in my chair.
Then the list got even better, and hungrier. There’s a German deli selling bratwurst plates with spätzle and red cabbage.
There’s a vegan sandwich shop where prices start in the single digits. There’s even a burger joint that piles pastrami on top of its cheeseburgers.
I love that cheap food in Utah’s capital comes with this much personality. None of these spots asks you to dress up or save up first.
You just show up and order something you can’t stop thinking about later.
So which counter, truck, or basement pizza joint deserves your next lunch break? I have a few strong opinions, plus a very long list of tacos to back them up.
1. Siegfried’s Delicatessen, Salt Lake City, UT
Bratwurst for lunch on a Tuesday in downtown Salt Lake City? Absolutely, and the deli cases make a strong case for it.
Siegfried’s Delicatessen is part restaurant and part marketplace, with traditional German specialties and imported groceries under one roof. The look leans fun and a little kitschy, which suits the food perfectly.
Your best move is the meat plate with two sides. It’s one of the friendliest bargains downtown, and it fills you up fast.
Bratwurst and knackwurst lead the sausage lineup. Pair them with spätzle, fried potatoes, sauerkraut, or rotkohl, the German name for red cabbage.
Want something heartier? The pork schnitzel with bratwurst brings two classics to one plate, and goulash shows up too.
A bratwurst sandwich works if you’re eating on the go. The service moves quickly, so it fits even a tight lunch hour.
Don’t rush out the door after eating, though. The grocery shelves are fun to browse for imported treats you won’t spot at a regular supermarket.
Timing matters here. Weekday afternoons and weekend evenings get busy, while Monday through Wednesday evenings tend to be calmer.
Plan around the schedule, since the deli closes on Sundays. On Fridays and Saturdays, it stays open until 9 PM for a late sausage fix.
Address: 20 W 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
2. Buds, Salt Lake City, UT
A pizza steak sandwich with no steak sounds like a riddle. At Buds, it’s simply lunch, and a very good one.
This snug vegan sandwich shop on 300 South keeps things laid-back and creative. The menu is fully vegan, yet the sandwiches lean hearty and “meaty” in the best way.
Prices sit in the lowest tier around, which makes it a dream for students and budget lunchers. You get filling portions without feeling like you skipped a real meal.
The pizzasteak and the veggie sandwich are two favorites worth trying first. House-made ingredients give the flavors extra punch.
Craving something lighter? Salads are on the menu too, and the cookies make an easy grab for dessert.
Ordering happens at the counter, and food comes out quick, hot, and fresh. The staff has a reputation for being kind, which never hurts.
Seating is limited, and there’s outdoor seating plus curbside pickup if the room fills up. One heads-up: there’s no restroom on site.
Street parking can take a little hunting nearby. Give yourself a few extra minutes so your sandwich stays the star of the trip.
Hours run Monday through Saturday, 11 AM to 5 PM, with Sundays off. Weekday mornings are quietest, while Saturday afternoons get the biggest crowd.
Address: 509 E 300 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84102
3. Pie Hole, Salt Lake City, UT
Open until 3 AM daily, Pie Hole is basically the night owl’s best friend on State Street.
The funky little parlor is known for ample, thin slices with just the right amount of grease. The eat-in area is tiny, so many folks grab a slice and roll.
Classic cheese and pepperoni are always solid picks. The potato bacon slice is the one that makes people raise an eyebrow, then go back for more.
Roasted red pepper and basil is a lighter option. Rotating specialty slices bring meat, veggie, and vegan choices that change day to day.
Don’t skip the cheesy garlic stix if you’re sharing. A house salad is there if you want to pretend you’re being healthy.
Video games add to the chill, playful mood inside. It feels like a place built for hanging out, not hurrying.
Friday and Saturday nights are the busiest stretch. If you want room to breathe, try a weekday lunch instead.
Slices come ready to eat right away, which is a huge win when you’re starving. Whole pies are available for bigger groups too.
Parking downtown can be a little tricky, so walking or taking transit helps. Free Wi-Fi is a nice bonus while you munch.
Address: 344 S State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
4. Tacos Don Rafa, Salt Lake City, UT
Rain or shine, this taco truck keeps the griddle busy on State Street until midnight.
Tacos Don Rafa serves classic street tacos, with carne asada, al pastor, and chicken leading the way. The prices are about as low as tacos get in Salt Lake City.
That means you can order a little stack without doing mental math. Mix fillings and find your favorite the fun way.
The burritos deserve attention too. They’re big, flavorful, and a smart pick when one taco round won’t cut it.
Salsa is a major part of the appeal here. Try more than one, because they bring serious personality to the plate.
Seating is outdoors, so dress for the weather in Utah’s changing seasons. Takeout works great if you’d rather eat at home.
The open hours run from 10 AM to midnight, seven days a week. That makes it handy for a late snack after a movie or game.
Friday and Saturday nights draw the biggest crowds. Weekend mornings are much calmer if you want a quick breakfast taco run.
Parking is usually easy, with a free lot nearby. There’s no restroom, though, so plan your stop with that in mind.
Address: 798 State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
5. Crown Burgers, Salt Lake City, UT
Pastrami on a cheeseburger might sound excessive. In Utah, it’s practically a family tradition.
Crown Burgers is a locally owned, family-run chain famous for that signature combo. The Crown Burger stacks a quarter-pound cheeseburger with a pile of pastrami.
Hungrier than usual? The double crown burger turns things up, and the mushroom swiss burger offers another route.
Greek dishes share the menu, which surprises first-timers. Gyros and souvlaki sticks are right there beside the burgers.
Side choices matter a lot here. Onion rings, sweet potato fries, and regular fries all compete for your attention.
Then there’s the fry sauce, made from a secret recipe. Dip anything in it and you’ll understand the hype in about two seconds.
A tuna melt and chicken strips round out the lineup for picky eaters. Shakes make an easy dessert if you’ve saved room.
This spot handles breakfast too, and service is fast. A drive-through helps when you’re eating in the car.
Kids are well covered, with a kids’ menu and high chairs. Hours run Monday through Saturday, 10 AM to 9 PM, and it’s closed on Sundays.
Address: 377 E 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
6. Curry Fried Chicken, Salt Lake City, UT
Fried chicken gets a bold makeover when curry powder joins the crust. The name tells you exactly what’s coming, and it delivers.
Curry Fried Chicken serves halal food with Indian and Middle Eastern flavors. The setting is laid-back, and the food comes out fast.
The star is crispy chicken coated in curry spices. It stays juicy inside while the outside crunches loudly.
A cucumber yogurt dressing cools things down nicely. Lentils, rice, and pita turn the plate into a full meal.
Don’t stop at chicken, though. Shawarma and kebabs are on the menu, so groups can share and sample.
Vegetarians aren’t left out, since a full vegetarian menu is available. That makes it easy to bring friends with different tastes.
Families will find high chairs, and dogs are welcome outside. Free Wi-Fi is there if you need to catch up on emails.
Unlike many quick spots, this one accepts reservations. That’s handy for busy Friday and Saturday evenings.
Mornings are usually quiet, so a late-morning lunch can mean less waiting. Hours run Monday through Saturday from 11 AM to 9 PM, with Sundays closed.
Address: 660 S State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
7. Little Saigon, Salt Lake City, UT
Grilled chicken tacos at a Vietnamese spot? Little Saigon likes to keep you guessing, and your taste buds benefit.
This simple counter-serve restaurant near Sugar House handles familiar Vietnamese favorites well. Pho, banh mi, and rice dishes form the backbone of the menu.
Steak pho is a strong starting point on a chilly day. Tofu pho gives meat-free eaters a satisfying bowl of their own.
The garlic steak sandwich deserves its fan base. Yellow curry chicken is another dish that keeps people coming back.
Full vegan and vegetarian menus make this an easy group pick. The tea selection is a nice touch too.
Inside, the space is small, casual, and clean. An outdoor patio adds extra seats when the weather cooperates.
Got a dog? Pups are allowed both inside and outside, which isn’t common at all.
Friday evenings are the busiest time to visit. Thursday mornings tend to be the quietest window.
Hours run 11 AM to 9 PM Monday through Saturday. On Sundays, it closes earlier at 7 PM, so plan a soup Sunday accordingly.
Address: 2021 Windsor St, Salt Lake City, UT 84105
8. Emiliano’s Taco Shop Mexican Food, Salt Lake City, UT
Taco Tuesday hits differently when crispy chicken tacos go on special. Emiliano’s Taco Shop turns the weekly ritual into a real bargain.
The doors open at 7 AM daily, so breakfast is a big deal here. The breakfast burritos are generous and built to carry you to lunch.
Later in the day, the menu shifts toward authentic Mexican specialties. Quesadillas come loaded with cheese and meat, no skimping in sight.
Tacos earn praise for their solid meat portions. The beans are worth adding too, since they hold their own.
Daily specials make repeat visits easy on your wallet. It’s the type of neighborhood stop you can hit twice in one week.
The mood is casual and fairly quiet. Service moves fast, so a quick weekday lunch is totally doable.
Bringing kids? There’s a kids’ menu to keep little eaters happy.
Evenings get busy, especially Tuesday nights when the deal draws a crowd. Weekday mornings are calmer if you prefer peace with your burrito.
Parking is usually plentiful, with a free lot on site. Hours run 7 AM to 11 PM seven days a week, which covers breakfast through late snacks.
Address: 2646 S 700 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84106
9. Greek Souvlaki, Salt Lake City, UT
Spaghetti at a Greek counter sounds random until you remember how many cultures love noodles. Greek Souvlaki proudly keeps both on the menu.
This local counter-serve chain focuses on quick, tasty Greek food. Pita sandwiches, souvlaki, and rice bowls lead the lineup.
The gyro is a dependable order that won’t drain your budget. It’s filling, flavorful, and easy to eat on the run.
Dolmathes, or stuffed grape leaves, make a fun side to share. A low carb salad works if you want something lighter.
The menu is varied enough to please picky groups. A full vegetarian menu helps too.
Families get high chairs and a kids’ menu. Dogs are welcome outside, if your pup wants a whiff of souvlaki.
A drive-through makes it easy to grab dinner without leaving your car. Catering is also offered for parties and office lunches.
Afternoons and early evenings get the busiest. Late mornings on Thursday and Friday tend to be quieter.
Hours run 11 AM to 9 PM Monday through Thursday. On Fridays and Saturdays, it stays open until 10 PM, and it’s closed Sundays.
Address: 404 E Broadway, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
10. The Pie Pizzeria – Underground, Salt Lake City, UT
Some of the best pizza near the University of Utah is literally below street level. The Pie Pizzeria – Underground earns its name honestly.
This branch of a beloved local chain has been a Utah pizza institution for decades. The basement setting gives it a cool, slightly historic feel.
Pizzas here are thick, loaded, and absolutely massive. Ordering one is half the fun, especially when friends gather around the table.
Build your own, or go with a specialty pie. The vegetarian Thai Pie is a standout for curious eaters.
Stuffed crust is a big crowd pleaser. The Wise Guy Stromboli brings a creamy layer of cheese, spinach, chicken, and artichoke basil.
Breadsticks round things out nicely. Vegan and vegetarian menus make sure nobody leaves hungry.
Live music and sports on the screens add extra energy. It’s a lively hangout for students and families alike.
Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings are the busiest. Parking can be tricky, so walking or transit helps.
Hours run 11 AM to 11 PM Monday through Saturday. Sundays run noon to 10 PM, perfect for a lazy pizza dinner.
Address: 1320 E 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84102
11. Top Taco, Salt Lake City, UT
Al pastor is the headliner at Top Taco, and the menu makes no secret of it.
This Mexican restaurant specializes in al pastor tacos and house-made salsas. That focus shows in how much attention the tacos get.
Timing your visit can save you money. A taco hour runs from 3 to 5 PM, Monday through Thursday.
That deal bundles three al pastor tacos with a canned soda. It’s a sweet way to beat the afternoon slump.
Try more than one salsa while you’re there. They’re made in-house, and they’re a big part of the charm.
Desserts also earn high marks, so leave a little room. Coffee is available if you need a pick-me-up.
Rooftop seating is a fun bonus on nice days. Outdoor seating gives you the Salt Lake sky with your tacos.
The staff is known for being super friendly. Kids get a menu of their own, and high chairs are on hand.
Hours run 11 AM to 9 PM Monday through Thursday. Friday and Saturday stretch to 10:30 PM, and Sundays are closed.
Address: 1427 S 300 W Ste A, Salt Lake City, UT 84115
12. Street Tacos SLC, Salt Lake City, UT
Open until 5 AM, Street Tacos SLC might be the latest-night meal in town. Seriously, that’s past most people’s alarm clocks.
This humble counter-serve spot whips up Mexican staples with no fuss. Tacos, burritos, and tamales fill the menu.
Portions are huge for street tacos. They’re filling enough to settle a serious midnight craving.
A popular combo pairs five carnitas tacos with a regular drink. It’s a simple order that hits the spot fast.
Vegetarians have options too, thanks to a full vegetarian menu. Friends with different appetites can all find something.
On Friday and Saturday nights, a DJ spins tunes. That turns a late taco run into a mini party.
Inside, the space stays nice and clean. The owners are known for being friendly, which makes a 2 AM visit feel welcoming.
A drive-through helps when you’d rather stay in the car. Free parking is usually easy to find.
Saturday night is the busiest stretch by far. Weekday mornings and afternoons are much calmer for a breakfast taco.
Address: 243 W 400 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
13. Chunga’s, Salt Lake City, UT
Pineapple salsa and fruity milkshakes give Chunga’s a Cancun twist on the west side of Salt Lake City.
This small Mexican spot looks like a hole in the wall from the outside. Inside, the dining room is clean and modern.
Al pastor is the move here, whether in tacos or a burrito. The al pastor burrito smothered in green sauce is a fan favorite.
Smothered steak burritos and enchiladas are also strong picks. You really can’t go wrong with the core menu.
Free chips and salsa start things off nicely. Grab that pineapple salsa for a sweet, tangy kick.
Save room for a fruity milkshake afterward. It’s a fun, cool way to finish a spicy meal.
Expect a wait at times, since the secret is getting out. Weekday lunch rushes are the busiest, so Saturday mornings are quieter.
Families get high chairs and a kids’ menu. Dogs are welcome outside if your pup wants to tag along.
Check the schedule before you go, since Chunga’s closes Sundays and Mondays. Tuesday through Saturday, it’s open 11 AM to 8:30 PM, a tasty last stop for any Utah food crawl.
Address: 180 S 900 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84104