Northcrest is quietly cementing itself as one of Salt Lake City’s most dynamic—and under-appreciated—food neighborhoods. Nestled between the bustle of North Temple and the peaceful pockets near Redwood Road, Northcrest’s culinary scene brims with character, diversity, and truly local flavor. Whether you’re searching for craft coffee, crave-worthy tacos, or a slice of homemade pie, this guide will highlight standout restaurants, cozy cafés, beloved food trucks, and must-try local traditions across Northcrest’s streets and avenues.
Northcrest At a Glance
Northcrest isn’t as tourist-trodden as Downtown or Sugar House, but ask any SLC local and they’ll tell you: some of the city’s most delicious and genuine eats are found right here. You’ll find clusters of food destinations along 2100 North (especially near Redwood Road), inviting nooks on 2200 West, and tucked-away gems in residential blocks. The mix of longstanding family-owned eateries and new creative upstarts means there’s always something to satisfy every palate and price range.
Standout Restaurants: The Heart of Northcrest
*El Mexiquense Grill*
Located on North Temple at Redwood Road, El Mexiquense Grill is the unofficial heart of Northcrest’s dining scene. This family-run spot is acclaimed for its incredible carne asada fries, zesty tacos al pastor, and horchata that locals swear is the best in town. Prices hover in the $10–$15 range for a generous meal, making it perfect for a casual lunch or affordable dinner.
*Thai Garden Bistro*
Over at 2100 North and 2200 West, Thai Garden Bistro brings a welcome punch of Southeast Asian flavors. Regulars rave about the Drunken Noodles, creamy Panang curry, and hand-rolled fresh spring rolls. The cozy, softly lit interior is ideal for a date night, while takeout is fast and reliable for busy families. Most entrées range from $12 to $18.
*The Northside Diner*
For classic comfort food, The Northside Diner (at 2150 North across from the elementary school) nails breakfast and brunch. Expect fluffy buttermilk pancakes, savory breakfast burritos, and bottomless mugs of drip coffee. The retro decor and friendly staff keep the diner packed with regulars each weekend. Pro tip: Don’t skip the homemade cinnamon rolls, which often sell out by noon.
Cozy Cafés and Artisanal Bakeries
*Bakers & Brews Café*
At the corner of 2100 North and 1950 West, Bakers & Brews is a standout morning destination. Their sourdough avocado toast, cold brew coffee, and rotating selection of house-made muffins make this a local favorite. Gluten-free and vegan treats are always on the menu, alongside classic pastries. Most drinks and pastries clock in at under $7.
*Mesa Bakery*
A hidden gem off Redwood Road, Mesa Bakery is a family-owned panadería with roots in traditional Mexican baking. Locals line up for their conchas, tres leches cake, and perfectly flaky empanadas. It’s cash only and a little off the beaten path—but 100% worth hunting down for an authentic treat.
Food Trucks and Grab-and-Go Goodness
*Taco Loco Truck*
No visit to Northcrest is complete without grabbing late-night tacos from Taco Loco, reliably parked near 2100 North and 2100 West. Their carne asada, lengua, and barbacoa tacos (all under $3 each) have earned a cult following. Whether it’s a post-game snack or a spontaneous dinner run, you’ll always find friendly faces and generous salsas here.
*The Frying Dutchman*
For something different, track down The Frying Dutchman, a bright blue food truck known for gourmet loaded fries. With toppings like smoked gouda, pickled onions, and chipotle aioli, these Instagram-worthy fries turn a snack into a meal. Their rotating location is announced daily on Instagram but frequents the North Temple corridor.
Local Traditions and Hidden Gems
*Sunday Tamale Sales at La Abuela’s*
Every Sunday morning, locals flock to La Abuela’s corner market near 2300 North and Redwood Road for housemade tamales, available in savory pork, chicken with green chile, and sweet pineapple varieties. It’s a community ritual to grab a dozen (or more) to-go before they’re sold out by midday.
*Pho Goodness*
Tucked in a tiny strip mall at 2180 North, Pho Goodness offers a steaming bowl of Vietnamese comfort—aromatic pho, rich broth, and generous cuts of beef or tofu. At under $12 a bowl, it’s one of the neighborhood’s best deals for solo diners and families alike.
*Butter & Crust Pie Shop*
Arguably Northcrest’s coziest dessert spot, Butter & Crust on 2200 West specializes in handmade pies, from classic apple and cherry to unexpected hits like salted honey and chocolate chess. Slices are big, buttery, and well-priced at about $5 each. Locals swear by the rotating seasonal flavors and their signature pie milkshake.
Best Bites by Street
- *North Temple & Redwood Road*: Cluster of taquerias, food trucks, and grill joints—great for quick lunches and authentic Mexican flavors.
- *2100 North*: Cafés, bakeries, and the best comfort food; check out the intersections at 1950 West and 2200 West.
- *2200 West*: Home to Northside Diner, Butter & Crust, and an array of unexpected ethnic eateries—perfect for exploring global cuisine.
Why Northcrest Stands Out
Northcrest’s food scene thrives on a sense of community, authenticity, and culinary passion. It doesn’t try to mimic trendy downtown spots; instead, it celebrates its own blend of immigrant traditions, family recipes, and unassuming gathering places. The diversity of cuisine—from Mexican street food to Thai, from diner breakfasts to inventive fries—means there’s a taste for every appetite.
Prices are generally wallet-friendly, and the food scene is refreshingly unfussy; you come for the flavors and the friendliness, not the Instagram clout (though you’ll find plenty of photogenic plates). For locals and adventurous visitors alike, Northcrest offers a savory, sweet, and spicy adventure just waiting at the edge of Salt Lake City.
Ready to eat your way through Northcrest? Bring your appetite—and maybe some extra napkins. Happy dining!