Now that only a few resorts remain open, we all have the urge to lengthen the dwindling days. Here are a few spots where you can stretch the ski day and linger while the sun goes down. *Whether or not patios are open depends on the weather. *
East Liberty Tap House: The newest kid on the 9th & 9th block, this neighborhood tavern has a patio begging to be enjoyed, overlooking the street and the unique parade of folks and dogs that inhabit this funky district. Gourmet bar bites, from cheddarwurst corndog nuggets to a sloppy lamb sandwich. Delicious salad? Fancy popcorn with bacon? House-smoked onion dip and chips? There’s something for all your cravings with beer, cocktails or wine to wash it down.
Goldminer’s. You don’t need much to enjoy the scene from the patio at Goldminer’s Daughter, at the base of the Collins Lift at Alta. It’s seems the sun is always shining, reggae is playing, beer is colder, smiles are bigger. Maybe I’m just an Alta bum but watching the day wrap up from this patio is the best.
No Name Saloon and Grill: Everything about this Park City Main Street classic is memorable, from the décor to the crowd. It’s always party time at the No Name, and on the deck overlooking the street below, there’s plenty to view. The famous buffalo burgers are worthy of noshing.
Porcupine Pub & Grille: You can never go wrong by choosing this joint as an après-ski hangout. At the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon, it’s perfectly situated for some winding down. You can count on a crowd but great service and great pub food. The wings, chicken noodle soup and nachos are my go-to dishes. *A second location near University of Utah is opening sometime in 2015. Stay tuned!
Trio: Down the hill a bit from Big Cottonwood Canyon, this restaurant is a little more upscale but welcoming to those in post-slope attire. Killer wood-fired pizzas and mouthwatering pastas, all at reasonable prices. (The Trio downtown also has a lovely patio, weather permitting.)
