One of the best perks of living at Gabbott’s Row is the location. Nestled in Salt Lake City near Main Street in the People’s Freeway / Ballpark area, you’re close to downtown energy without living in the middle of the noise. That means more options, more variety, and way more opportunities to find your next favorite meal—whether you’re craving a quick breakfast before work, a relaxed dinner with friends, or a late-night bite after exploring the city.
This guide covers the best restaurants near Gabbott’s Row—local legends, comfort food favorites, international spots, and easy go-to places you’ll be glad to have nearby. Whenever a restaurant has an official website, you’ll see it linked for easy menu browsing and directions.
And if you want to explore the broader neighborhood vibe beyond dining, be sure to check out our neighborhood map.
Quick Snapshot: Dining Near Gabbott’s Row
Gabbott’s Row is located at 11 W Merrimac Avenue, Salt Lake City, UT 84115—which puts you within a short drive (and in many cases, a quick walk or rideshare) of:- Smith’s Ballpark and the Ballpark District
- South Main Street restaurants
- Downtown Salt Lake City hotspots
- Coffee shops, breweries, and casual eats in the Granary area
So whether you’re a “weekend brunch” person, a weekday meal-prepper who still wants takeout options, or someone who likes discovering hidden gems—this is a really good place to be hungry.
Best Burgers Near Gabbott’s Row
1) Lucky 13 Bar & Grill
If Salt Lake City had a burger hall of fame, Lucky 13 would be hanging in a gold frame front and center. Known for bold, stacked burgers, creative toppings, and a lively bar atmosphere, it’s the kind of place that turns an average Tuesday into something fun.
What to order:
- A signature burger (they’re not shy about size)
- Fries or onion rings
- Something smoky or spicy if you love heat
Best Breakfast & Brunch Near Gabbott’s Row
2) Sweet Lake Biscuits & Limeade
This place is a must—especially if you love comfort food that feels homemade but a little upgraded. Sweet Lake is famous for biscuits (soft, buttery, and generously portioned) and its refreshing limeades.
Don’t miss:
- Biscuit sandwiches
- Fresh mint limeade
- Seasonal specials
Great for: brunch dates, weekend mornings, comfort breakfast
3) Penny Ann’s Cafe
For classic breakfast energy—pancakes, eggs, hearty plates—Penny Ann’s Cafe is a beloved local staple. It’s casual, friendly, and exactly what you want when you need something warm and filling.
Famous for:
- “Heavenly Hot Cakes”
- Big breakfast combos
- Cozy diner-style feel
Great for: family brunch, quick breakfast, traditional comfort food
Pizza, Italian & Easy Crowd-Pleasers
4) Slackwater
When you want something everyone agrees on, Slackwater is an easy win. It’s known for creative pizza combinations, a big beer selection, and a laid-back, upbeat vibe. It’s perfect for friends, visitors, or a low-effort date night.
Pro tip: try a pizza with unexpected toppings—you’ll be surprised how well it works.
Global Flavors Near Gabbott’s Row
5) Mahider Ethiopian Restaurant & Market
If you haven’t tried Ethiopian food yet, this is your sign. It’s flavorful, comforting, and great for sharing. Meals are often served with injera (a soft, spongy flatbread), and everything feels communal—in the best way.
Great for: adventurous dining, sharing plates, vegetarian-friendly options
6) One More Noodle House
If noodles are your love language, keep this one in your rotation. Whether you go for soup noodles, stir-fry, dumplings, or spicy bowls, it’s a satisfying option when you want bold flavor and real comfort food.
Great for: quick dinner, cold weather cravings, takeout night
Vegan & Vegetarian-Friendly Favorites
7) Vertical Diner
Salt Lake City has a strong plant-based dining scene, and Vertical Diner is a key reason why. It’s vegan comfort food that doesn’t feel like a compromise—think diner classics done in a fresh, creative way.
Great for: vegan dining, brunch, casual lunch
Breweries & Pub Food (That’s Actually Good)
8) Piper Down Pub
This Irish-style pub is a Ballpark neighborhood favorite—known for a relaxed vibe, a big menu (including vegan options), Guinness on tap, and pool tables. Great place to unwind.
Great for: pub nights, casual hangouts, comfort food
9) The Bayou
If you like craft beer—or want to become someone who likes craft beer—The Bayou is a must-visit. It has one of the best selections around plus a Cajun/Creole-inspired menu with plenty of variety.
Great for: beer lovers, hangouts, low-key dinners
Coffee Shops & Cafes for Study Days and Slow Mornings
10) Publik Coffee Roasters
For coffee, espresso drinks, and a modern café environment, Publik is a local go-to. It’s especially great if you work remotely or want a place to meet up that isn’t a loud restaurant.
Great for: remote work, study sessions, coffee dates
Date Night & “Treat Yourself” Dining
Sometimes you want more than casual—you want ambiance, a thoughtful menu, maybe a cocktail that feels like a reward for getting through the week. From Gabbott’s Row, you’re also close to downtown and the Post District.
11) Urban Hill
A more elevated dining experience with wood-fired cooking, oysters, wine, and a stylish atmosphere. Great for celebrations, visiting friends, or an upscale night out.
How to Pick the Perfect Spot (Depending on Your Mood)
If you’re not sure what you’re craving, try using this quick cheat sheet:
- Fast + filling: Lucky 13
- Brunch mood: Sweet Lake or Penny Ann’s
- Group dinner: Slackwater
- Something different: Ethiopian at Mahider
- Plant-based comfort: Vertical Diner
- Beer + vibes: The Bayou
- Pub hang: Piper Down
- Work + coffee: Publik
FAQs: Restaurants Near Gabbott’s Row
What are the best restaurants near Gabbott’s Row in Salt Lake City?
Some of the best restaurants near Gabbott’s Row include Lucky 13 for award-winning burgers, Sweet Lake Biscuits & Limeade for breakfast and brunch, and Slackwater for creative pizza and drinks. These local favorites are all a short drive from Gabbott’s Row and are popular for casual dining, takeout, and weekend meals.
Where should I eat near Smith’s Ballpark?
If you’re looking for places to eat near Smith’s Ballpark, top picks include Lucky 13 for a classic Salt Lake City burger, Piper Down Pub for relaxed pub food and vegan-friendly options, and Sweet Lake Biscuits & Limeade for brunch. These restaurants are close to the Ballpark neighborhood and are great before or after games and events.
What are the best brunch spots near People’s Freeway in Salt Lake City?
The best brunch spots near People’s Freeway include Sweet Lake Biscuits & Limeade for biscuit sandwiches and fresh limeades, Penny Ann’s Cafe for hearty breakfast plates and pancakes, and Vertical Diner for plant-based brunch favorites. These restaurants are all close to Gabbott’s Row and are ideal for weekend brunch with friends or family.
What restaurants near Gabbott’s Row are open late?
For late-night food near Gabbott’s Row, popular options include Piper Down Pub for casual bites in a pub setting and Lucky 13 for burgers and drinks later in the evening. You’ll also find additional late-night options closer to downtown Salt Lake City, making it easy to grab food after events, concerts, or nights out.
What are the best takeout restaurants near Gabbott’s Row?
For takeout near Gabbott’s Row, locals often choose Slackwater for pizza, Lucky 13 for burgers, and nearby noodle and international restaurants for fast comfort meals. These options are convenient for busy weekdays and offer a mix of classic favorites and bold flavors—perfect for delivery nights or quick pickup on the way home.