You know that feeling when you're downtown and everyone wants something different? One person is craving a heavy pasta, another wants a light salad, and someone else is dead set on a steak. Honestly, that’s usually when someone suggests Brio Grille Salt Lake City—or, more accurately, Brio Italian Grille at City Creek Center.
It’s been a staple of the downtown dining scene for years. It sits right in the heart of the East Block, Level 1. You've probably walked past it a hundred times while watching the fountains or heading toward the Apple Store. It’s got that specific "casually elegant" vibe. Think white tablecloths but with people in sneakers and shopping bags.
What’s the vibe at City Creek?
Walking in feels a bit like stepping into a Tuscan villa that somehow got dropped into a modern mall. There are arched colonnades, hand-crafted mosaics, and those massive Venetian plaster walls. It’s open and airy, which is a nice break from the crowded feeling of the food court just across the way.
The service is generally what you’d expect from a high-end casual chain—fast enough for a lunch break but they won't rush you if you’re doing a full three-course dinner.
The Food: What to Actually Order
If you’re just looking at the menu, it can be a bit overwhelming. They cover a lot of ground. But there are a few things that Brio basically staked its reputation on.
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The Pasta Brio
This is the one. If you like rigatoni, you’ve gotta try it. It’s a mix of grilled chicken, mushrooms, spinach, and red peppers, all tossed in a roasted red pepper cream sauce. It’s rich. It’s heavy. It’s exactly what you want on a cold Salt Lake January day.
The Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad
I know, it’s a salad. But it’s surprisingly popular. They use shaved chicken, mixed greens, grapes, and these spicy candied pecans that really make the dish. It’s the go-to for the lunch crowd who doesn't want to fall asleep at their desk at 2:00 PM.
Small Plates and Flatbreads
The Margherita Flatbread is a safe bet—vine-ripened tomatoes and fresh mozzarella. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, the Gorgonzola Lamb Chops are a "Brio Guest Favorite" for a reason. They come with a Gorgonzola crust and marsala sauce.
Happy Hour and Deals
Most people don't realize that Brio has a pretty solid happy hour.
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Weekdays from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, they usually have "Signature Bites" and cocktails for around $8. This is available at the bar and on the outdoor terraces. Speaking of terraces, sitting outside during the summer at City Creek is one of the best people-watching spots in the city.
Pro Tip: They do "Wine Wednesday" and "Martini Thursday." If you’re planning a mid-week get-together, those are the days to do it.
The Logistics: Parking and Getting There
Parking downtown can be a nightmare, but Brio makes it slightly easier.
- The First 2 Hours: Free in the underground City Creek garage.
- The 3rd Hour: Free if you get your ticket validated at the restaurant.
- Location: 80 S Regent Street. It’s right near the 100 South and State Street entrances.
The garage has about 5,000 spaces, so you’ll almost always find a spot, though it gets tight during the holidays or Jazz games.
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Is it still worth it in 2026?
Honestly, the SLC food scene has exploded recently. There are so many tiny, authentic Italian spots popping up in the 9th and 9th area or the Granary District. So, does a place like Brio still hold up?
Yes, for a few reasons. Reliability is a big one. You know the Lobster Bisque is going to taste the same every single time. It's also one of the few places downtown that can handle a group of 10 people without a three-week notice.
It’s not trying to be a Michelin-star experience. It’s a place for a solid steak, a reliable glass of Italian wine, and a piece of Tiramisu before you head home.
What You Should Know Before You Go
- Reservations: You can usually walk in for lunch, but for dinner on a Friday or Saturday, use their website to grab a table.
- Dietary Stuff: They have a decent amount of gluten-free options (including GF pasta) and a dedicated kids' menu.
- The Bread: They bring out this sourdough and a spicy oil/herb dip. Try not to fill up on it. It’s hard, I know.
If you’re looking for a place that feels "nice" without being stuffy, or if you just need a reliable meal after a long day of shopping, Brio is still one of the best anchors in the downtown area.
Next steps for your visit:
- Check the current seasonal specials on their official City Creek page before you go, as they often rotate "Al Forno" winter or summer dishes.
- Make sure to bring your parking ticket inside; the validation machine is usually right at the host stand.
- If you're visiting during the holidays, book at least two weeks out, as the proximity to the City Creek lights makes them incredibly busy.