Excellent food, awesome service, dog friendly patio, parking behind the Restrauant, what more can you ask for? The halibut was out of this world! Short ribs were to die for! Beef was wonderful. Good wine list. I'm totally hooked!
(5)
Josh S.
Dear reader: please don't interpret my rating here as an indication that this restaurant serves good/average/redeemable in any way food. Let me be clear: the food here sucks. There is one redeeming factor, however: the people are awesome. The servers knew exactly when to step in and ask what we needed and when to back off and leave us alone. One recommendation: only order the Salmon Roulade when/if you are prepared to admit that rubber is your favorite base ingredient. Or if you don't mind spending about 18 hours sitting on the porcelain throne trying to pass a glue-ey Boulder.
(2)
Chris P.
We discovered this place this morning after reading a review about it. Located in the 'Marmalade' district of Salt Lake City the architecture varies from Russian influenced to gothic revival to victorian mansions. We showed up right at opening time. They have self serve coffee which is a great thing. The wait staff was professional, courteous and friendly. I had the Salmon Eggs Benedict and Shannan had the Fritada. Both were absolutely excellent. We were going to try one of the sticky buns, but we forgot to order one...so next time. It appears that they take reservations - so since it is a small place it might be wise to do so. We looked at the dinner menu and it seemed very interesting. Can't speak on that...yet.
(5)
Lisa B.
Em's is a delightful spot, with a lovely setting and a menu that steers toward light, inventive cuisine. The brunch is especially delicious and the garden bower is a beautiful place to be outdoors yet completely shaded in summer. I'm afraid, though, that I have to knock a star off for the unpredictable hours. We sometimes walk there from the Avenues -- and after more than one experience of its being closed when the website said it would be open, or being told that seating for brunch was over at 12:45, we learned to call and check before going.
(4)
Rebecca W.
I try to only review restaurants that I had a good experience at. But I had such a negative experience at Em's Restaurant this past weekend, I had to share. Lots of hype, but completely overpriced. I'm fine spending good money for a good meal. But this was anything but. We had a reservation for 9 people at 7 pm. We got there right at 7 pm, but the rest of our group didn't stroll in until 7:15. I don't believe it was an issue, because the dining room was practically empty, only one other table of people. Our waitress seemed nice, but the service was incredibly slow. She finally took our order around 7:30. But we didn't receive our salads until 7:50. The house salad was rather weak, as in literally the lettuce was completely weak and limp. I could barely get any leaves onto my fork. There were no vegetables or toppings, just a weak spring mix tossed in a vinaigrette. Some of our party ordered the beet salad and they seemed to like it. But they had to pay $5 extra to add the beet salad to their entree. We didn't get our entrees until 8:45. That's a very long time to wait between courses. I tried to be excited and forget about how hungry I was and just enjoy my meal. But there was so little of it, that it was difficult. I ordered the goat cheese and pine nuts stuffed chicken ($20) served with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The chicken had hardly any flavor. Every bite needed to have at least some of the stuffing to be slightly enjoyed. The rest of the breast was dry and flavorless. The mashed potatoes were good, but the seasonal vegetables was literally 2 green beans, and two thin carrot shavings. Definitely left more t be desired. My husband order the New York strip steak with blue cheese and caramelized onions ($25). It came with seasonal vegetables and "roasted potatoes." The potatoes definitely weren't roasted. They were boiled. They had no seasonings or oil or any additional flavor on top. He had to scrape off the toppings from the steak to eat with the potatoes. The potatoes were scorching hot, but the rest of the food was lukewarm. Onto the steak. My husband had asked for the steak to be cooked medium. He took the first few bites into the steak and enjoyed it. but when he got slightly to the center, it was much more pink. Not a problem, he had ordered medium. He cut one more level into it, and was completely raw through the entire center. At this point, we had already been at the restaurant for 2 hours and he had eaten most of the other food on his plate. We could have sent it back, but we didn't want to wait any longer, we just wanted to leave as soon as possible. It was a real disappointment. We had high hopes for this place and had heard such good things. But no part of the experience was enjoyable. The seats were uncomfortable. The bathroom was not up to par, everything took 3x longer than we were expecting, parking was terrible, and we left very frustrated about our experience because of all the time and money we lost. Next time, I'm convincing the group to go to Cafe Rio.
(2)
Sergei N.
This restaurant is in a residential area close to Temple Square. We stopped by here briefly to catch a quick lunch and left not super impressed. My sandwich on sourdough bread was super plain. It was good but not really what i expect at a restaurant for ten bucks. The herb crepe with cheese was the exact opposite - it was the richest most cheese (soft) filled item i've ever eaten. It was difficult to eat because the flavor was so ... cheesy. The texture was way too gooey. There were also a ton of people doing somekind of a meeting there on a wednesday morning at 11. I'm assuming it wasnt an early lunch.. Overall I'd skip the place.
(3)
Dan R.
Wow were we impressed. My group of six pulled up in two taxis and we asked our driver if he had the right address because it sure did't look like he had after he stopped in a residential neighborhood. But there it was across the street, Em's is small, but we had called for a reservation and had a great table. Drink orders were filled quickly and we ordered some appetizers - Smoked Salmon & Crab Rolls with Avocado, Sesame Seed Vinaigrette & Cilantro Oil for $12.00, Tamales stuffed with Goat's Cheese served on a bed of Chipotle Con Crema for $9.00, and a nice charcuterie plate pff the special menus. For my entree I had the Red Wine Braised Short Ribs with Seasonal Vegetables & Mashed Potatoes for $24.00. It was served with a salad. I really liked my entree. The meat was tender and delicious. Everything on the plate was excellent. My share of the bill (appys, wine, entree and tip) was $60 and I thought it was a very good value for the quality of the food
(4)
Jeffrey S.
Quaint. Quiet. Unassuming. Neighborhood spot. I've heard all of these things used in reference to Em's, and it was high time I check the place out. It's all of those things. It's the perfect picture of a Capitol Hill neighborhood eatery done right. It has an interesting building, a simple menu, a host of regulars, but it's upscale enough that you feel like you're having a night out. Picture an old brick building, meant to look old, but also contemporary and new. The art on the walls is modern, and the tables are neatly set and the servers and host alarmingly proficient. No teenage girls texting in between seating guests. No riff raff. That's what you've got. Surely you can put up with the mildly inconvenient street parking for that tradeoff? Now let's get to the food. Em's may have occasional specials, but they stick to the same menu pretty faithfully. If you're a regular, rejoice in the specials. if not, you'll be fine with one of the tried and true standbys. They're really honed these things in. Amongst the standouts (both from my belly and from those that others always seem to rave about and I got to try) are the rack of lamb and the pork chop. Lamb is so hard to do, and they give it a delicate treatment and offer some jalapeño jelly to balance out the meat flavor. And the pork chop with its maple and bacon flavors. Not, like, "Oh, look at me! I'm bacon and I'm a gimmick." But genuinely used as a flavor. I also was blown away by the sweet potato puree. I know that's supposed to be a side that they throw on, but honey, oh honey, that was sweet magic. Others rave about the phyllo goat cheese app--but I'd skip it. Go for the patee. But hold on tight for flavors in your mouth, what with the mustard and olives served alongside. It's potent. I was bracing myself for pure magic with the bread pudding. Maybe it was an off night or expectations were too high, but it didn't knock my socks off. Should you order it? Oh yes, definitely. But don't expect that it will redefine the dessert for you. What a pleasant time. Sad I had a dinner scheduled here a few years ago that got cancelled. I would have loved to have tried it sooner. They're just so quiet (chefs never compete or participate in any other restaurant thingy-events that happen all the time in SLC), but once you discover it, you'll want to join them for dinner more often.
We had dinner at Em's last night. The service was abominable, the food worse and the help uncaring. It will be the last time there. I wondered if it has changed ownership
(1)
Karsten B.
I went here for lunch and from what I've heard, their dinner menu is better. My sandwich was fine, nothing to complain about, but nothing special. The chocolate habanero ice cream, however, was amazing and worth four stars alone. I do like the business model and will probably return for dinner at some point.
(4)
Fae L.
Hidden little gem in the downtown neighborhood of Marmalade. Quaint little cafe with charm. The food portions are perfect. We (husband & I) didn't walk away feeling sickly full or with a gut ache. The food is fresh and perfect. Service is good as well.
(5)
Ann A.
We ate there tonight. Our food total did not exceed $100 for our party of four, but our bill came to over $170. We decided this must be to an outrageous corkage fee. (one that was not listed on the menu, and that we should have asked about as we brought our own wine.) The service was terrible, to say the least. We had to call for our waitress for anything - removal of plates, refills on drinks, reminders of food, etc. Having said that, the food itself was succulent. The disappointment to us is that we probably won't be back due to the awful service, hidden pricing, and the long, long wait for the outstanding entrees. Sad.
(2)
Anita C.
A fellow yelper suggested this place for brunch, and I am so glad he did. Cute little place, loved all the art. It is pretty small so it does get crowded quickly. I ordered the Smoked Salmon Benedict and it was delicious. Everything was balanced really well, and the portion size was great. The eggs were cooked perfectly, the potato pancakes were just crispy enough, and I loved the dill creme fraiche. My friend ordered the herbed crepe which was equally delicious. Want to go back and check out their dinner menu.
(4)
Walter C.
Right off the bat, Amelia is a sweetheart. Always with a smile and quick with the service. A unique talent considering she is the only one working the tables. More than just a big tip, she deserves all the accolades and praise that can be given to her. The food is good, the Italian Sausage Sandwich is a winner. Desserts are the real winner here. Pecan Bread Pudding is a plus and needs to be tried. Over all this a nice place for a peaceful lunch.
(4)
Charline D.
We walked through the snowstorm to have a brunch in Em's. The place is small, cosy and not noisy. Of course on Sunday everybody wants to go there so we had to wait 30 minutes but they have a little coffee house across the corridor. The food is good and not expensive at all. I will definitively come back if I' in Salt Lake City.
(5)
Lloyd A.
Very nice small restaurant in a residential neighborhood with inside and patio dining. Very eclectic menu with a great variety of dishes for every taste. Friendly and attentive staff. Great desserts and expresso provided for a super finish. Absolutely a must when in Salt Lake City
(5)
Jacob B.
This place was very good! The people were friendly, the patio was very enjoyable. They didn't rush us at all, they let me and my girlfriend sit back and relax. Which is what you want on a Sunday brunch! huevos rancheros was amazing!!!!!
(5)
Julianne H.
I got the Dried Fruit Stuffed Pork Tenderloin with roasted potatoes in a bacon sherry vinaigrette. It was good but nothing special. I loved the restaurant atmosphere, the staff is very friendly, and I would recommend bringing people here. Even though I didn't love my entree, I was impressed by this place!
(4)
Peggy C.
The service was great and the food tasty. The place sits atop a steep hill and gives you the feel of being in San Francisco The warm potatoe salad with mixed green was a delicious, it had a wonderfully light vinaigrette. Dessert, the bread pudding with bourbon pecan ice cream was absolutely amazing. It was a nice end to a lovely lunch.
(4)
Kacey K.
Went to Em's on May 28th for a graduation dinner with my family. While the food was delicious the service was terrible. From the moment we walked in the door our server treated us with contempt. We ended up having to share water glasses because they weren't refilled or we simply didn't have enough glasses. Our server never followed up and checked if we needed anything after our food was delivered. When bringing back the receipts after paying she just threw them on the table and walked away without speaking a word. And that's just a few of the things that occurred last night. I don't see any reason why our group deserved to be treated this way, but it put a damper on an evening of celebration.
(3)
Cameron C.
An absolute gem. Tucked away in a residential neighborhood up by the Capitol, I'm very glad it was recommended to me because I don't think I would have ever found it on my own. This definitely will be added to my SLC dining rotation. Garden patio was very quaint, perfect for a summer evening meal. Service was very friendly and unobtrusive. Started with the tuna on cucumber and the tomato/mozzarella/prosciutto appetizers, both light and fresh and very tasty. Was surprised by a course of complimentary salads for our table. Then went on to the main course of pinenut and goat cheese stuffed chicken w/ veggies and mashed potatoes, which (although I hardly ever order chicken when dining out) was a great call. Also tasted the halibut, which was very nice. There were so many other things on the menu that looked exceptional, I'm definitely going to need to come back soon to further round out my perception of this place -- but great first time around.
(5)
Nate S.
Em's could easily be the winner of a "Design Your Neighborhood Restaurant" contest. And, since I just moved into the neighborhood, I am also a winner. Lovely place for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
(5)
Mike G.
We had been looking for a nice, quaint restaurant with quality food to remind us of something you would find in our home town of Chi-town. Sorry, my "better half" made me say that. Anyway, yelp helped us stumble upon this little gem and we checked it out last Thursday night. The place was not packed but I chalk that up to it being Halloween night. The ambiance was fantastic, low lighting, not loud, soft music in the background and a quiet staff. We started with two appetizers. One being a flat bread that was pretty good and the other being scallops. The scallops were very good as well. Our dinners were actually fantastic but we felt they were a little over priced. My wife ordered butternut squash ravioli with a browned butter sage sauce. I think hers was a little over priced for the quantity. I ordered the pork chops with mashed potatoes. All in all, the food was above average. We ended with a vanilla bean cake with raspberry sauce. The cake was a tad dry to be honest but had good flavor. I ordered the bourbon pecan ice cream. It was absolutely amazing. With that we ordered tea and coffee. All in all, we left pleased. The service was very good, food very good, pricing was decent and entire experience above average. One of the better restaurants we have eaten at in Utah.
(4)
Shane K.
We LOVE Em's... We just moved to the downtown area and have been meaning to try Em's for months. Finally tried it and it will be our new regular spot! The location is super cool - kind of hidden away by the capital building. Love the simple feel and design of the restaurant and the food is off the hook.
(5)
Pooja P.
My friend has talked about Em's several times and I was excited to try out her favorite brunch place in SLC. We arrived to a mostly empty restaurant and were told that the tables were unavailable due to reservations and other people waiting. About 20 minutes later we were the first ones to be seated- it seemed that it was easier for the waitress to deal with her current customers rather than add new ones. My friend ordered the corned beef hash with a tea and I ordered the huevos rancheros. When the food arrived and my friend asked why she didn't get the toast that was on the menu, the waitress said that she never gives the toast without someone asking for it, however she didn't make that clear when we were ordering. My friend then ordered the toast, which she never received. Her tea did not arrive until the end of the meal, and was the wrong flavor, and we didn't get any water refills. The entire time the waitress apologized that it's this busy every week and that there wasn't anything she could do about it. We left brunch sorely disappointed by the service and it went from being my friend's favorite brunch spot to one she and I will not return to unless they hire more help and train their wait staff better. It's too bad because the only reason Em's gets 2 stars is that my huevos rancheros were delicious.
(2)
Tiana G.
Nicest waitress on the entire planet. Most delicious Benedict on the entire planet.
(5)
Steve K.
Very good food, fairly reasonably priced and they take a reservation! Their butter is some of the best butter I've had. You almost keep asking for more bread and butter because the butter is so good. The salad's are great as are the appetizers. Most of the entrees are also very good. Considering the reasonable price, very good food and nice atmosphere, I recommend this place.
(4)
Laurence B.
Returned to Em's Restaurant last night for the first time in years. It is still a great cozy spot for having dinner with friends. I had the potato lasagna, which was a hit. Molten chocolate cake lacked an oozing center, which I would call a miss. So this recent visit was much like those I remember: Em's is a really good place to get a decent meal but always is lacking something to keep it from being great.
(4)
Lindsay K.
The tomato appetizer special was amazing. It was topped with a pesto sauce, balsamic reduction, prosciutto, and delicious creamy mozzarella. I had the salmon dish for my entree. It too was delicious, well cooked. It was on a bed of creamy cabbage, and while also good, was a bit too creamy for my taste. Overall the food was great, but a bit overpriced. The service was a bit slow, which I would have minded if I hadn't been enjoying my companion and our conversation.
(4)
Nathan I.
Brunch is very underwhelming. Ordered the two eggs and bacon with potatoes (easiest thing in the world to make). Waited over 45 minutes and waitress came once to fill up drinks. There was nobody else in the restaurant either, so why it took so long is a bit confusing. They said they were overwhelmed at this time of day. Once I got the food, it was under portioned, dry, plain, and unseasoned. The bacon was the only reason for 2 stars rather than one as it was thicker than a regular McDonalds slice. The waitress seemed nice though. Would not recommend if you're looking for brunch and are hungry because you WILL wait.
(2)
Andrea C.
I've been here twice,in one month, and I have been extremely satisfied each time. The servers are great as well. It's a must if you are new to the area or just visiting!
(5)
Nicholas T.
These guys are awesome!!! We brought our Dog "Lucy" with us and they treated her as if she was a customer. If you are looking for amazing food amazing environment and a place that caters to dogs.. This is the place. They make you feel like this is your own personal restaurant. Keep up the great work guys.. You are our new favorite spot!
(5)
Bryan C.
Really cute set up. Service was good, a bit slow but that's because it was kinda packed. The house salad was really good. We had the tamales for appetizer, kinda small so not good for sharing. I had the lamb which was excuisite but the portion was very small, I was still a bit hungry afterwards. My wife had the pork chop, she loved it and the portion was very decent. We had raspberry crème broulle for desert which was absolutely fantastic. Overall our experience was satisfying . we would recommend this place, it is worth the try .
(4)
Denise L.
I love this place. Though it is definitely expensive, despite the $$ yelp rating. The atmosphere is very nice. Quiet, clean, and nice outdoor seating underneath an grape-vined awning. Our waiter, Seth, was very helpful and gave us lots of information on the menu and drinks. Appetizers: we had 2 specials: the scallops with corn were absolutely fantastic and definitely the best thing we ate. We also had the proscuitto wrapped figs that were stuffed with goat cheese. Delicious! The entress come with a house salad. House salad is only okay-lettuce drizzled with vinegar and some cheese. I had the halibut, which was very good. My husband had the rack of lamb, which is actually 3 lamb chops. It came with a tasty potato side. I look forward to returning here.
(5)
patti g.
Was in Salt Lake for business with a friend who used to live there and knew about Em's. It is a hidden gem. Quite, unassuming but with a great vibe. Food and service both amazing. What a great place to go hang out with friends and be able to have great conversation over great food. Can't wait to go back.
(5)
Victoria H.
Em's on a weeknight is just as great as any busy weekend. Last night we stopped in with a couple of friends. Between the 4 of us we ordered the scallops, lamb patties and dates for appetizers. The dates were (surprisingly) the group's favorite. For entrees we ordered the marinated pork chop, a duck breast special, beef tenderloin and short rib. Each of us taste tested all the dishes. The runaway winner was the short rib. Yum. Em's is still on my short list of recommendations.
(4)
L N.
Cute boutique type environment below the Capitol I think has some great potential, however, it starts with the people completely unfriendly besides the barista he was great! Jeff the first team member that greeted us 1. Wrote the wrong name down 2. Gave away our table 3. Zero personality with a lack of understanding in the hospitality industry after Jeff we had another team member who wasn't wearing a name tag and threw our waters on the table and never had the option to order something to drink besides the coffee I brought from the coffee lounge. Well were ready to order and immediately we're told they're out of Rolls, Corn Beef Hash, and crepes. Yet another management issue. If you don't like the service industry get out! I wouldn't recommend this staff to the local McDonald's!
(1)
Rich T.
Habanero ice cream might be good but on this Sunday morning they are glacially slow in serving so be warned. They do about 10 plates every 30 minutes so make sure u count so u can estimate the wait. Nice spot I think. The food was pretty good, but just beware of the wait.
I must agree with the reviewer below. If I could design my perfect neighborhood restaurant, this would be it. It's not far for us to go fortunately because we will be back often! First of all Em's have strange hours. The waitress is the one that told us this so to make sure we always call and make a reservation (which I LOVE to do) so that we always know it's open. She said they do a lot of weddings and private parties. The place is CUTE! It's an old, charming building and the patio (in season) looks to be adorable! The service was great and our food was incredible. I wish they had some different options on the appetizer side of things, but in the end I opted for just an entree. The table had steaks and also the tuna. All meals were excellent. I had the filet and it was perfect. The wine list was great and not too pricy. I can't wait to go again!
(5)
Jean W.
In anticipation of a Sunday morning crowd, our party of five secured a patio reservation. GPS got us to Main Street - not one of us was familiar with this area just west of the Capitol. Em's is a little hard to detect tucked away in its residential neighborhood. Walking up, the surrounding area is wooded and beautiful. The interior was interesting and cozy, and no detectable crowd had yet gathered. We were greeted and promptly seated at our umbrella-outfitted table in the sun. The south patio is partially shaded by a beautiful wood trellis proudly displaying prolific real grapevines; many other interesting plants adorn the perimeter. It was really very lovely here in the morning. The brunch menu is brief but solid, offering a few delicious sounding options. We loved that they feature a "Roll of the Day," or you can choose their everyday Cinnamon Sticky Buns. We were intrigued by a Raspberry Peach Roll looking for a home via our waiter, so we graciously offered to adopt and devour it. Divine...but a little like eating dessert first. Oh well. Bigger tragedies have occurred. Here's what we ordered - - Southwest Casserole (brunch special of the day) - Smoked Salmon Frittata - Bacon & Eggs/Ham & Eggs - Herbed Crepe with Ham & Scrambled Eggs Everyone agreed that the food was very good, even down to the toast which came with its own dollop of jam on the plate. The highlight meal was the Salmon Frittata, garnering rave reviews all around. The SW Casserole was tasty and employed well thought out flavors, but fell a bit flat for me in the spice arena. I would have loved a bit more kick here, even if it were in the form of bottled sauce. But there was no hot sauce (or ketchup, for that matter) to be found. The crepe was subtle and delicious. Most of us ordered the roasted potatoes side. They were lightly seasoned and pan-fried to crispy perfection. We each had 8 small potato pieces, which made us conclude that they must count them upon plating. They looked very lonely on the plate with so few. When they brought the coffee cups I almost told the waiter that we hadn't ordered espresso. Their cups are so tiny only 5 minutes went by before another refill was needed. They certainly weren't the worst I've seen at refills, but considering the size of the cups, they should be a lot more on top of the refill sitch. There were several 15 minute periods where all of our coffee cups were empty. Which, for a coffanatic like myself, is a big no-no; particularly as we made a point of mentioning up front that the cups were so small it was obvious that frequent refills would be a necessity. The service was very friendly and relaxed, despite what appeared to be an eventual full house. But delivery of the food was very slow. We waited 30 minutes after ordering before they began to bring it out. It's good we had beautiful surroundings to take our minds off the delay. There was never much recognition from our server that two of us never received the orange juice ordered, which was only ordered because they didn't deliver the hot chocolate they eventually discovered they were out of. We were happy to note that at least the bill didn't reflect a charge for either. We had a very relaxing morning at Em's, with great food and lovely atmosphere. We were busy chatting, and must have spent an additional 30 minutes at our table after the bill was paid and plates were cleared. But we never felt rushed or abandoned at any point. Prices were very reasonable with most brunch entrees coming in under $10. Our total bill was surprisingly affordable. The few relatively minor hiccups we encountered brought our experience from a 5-star to a 4-star, but it was still a worthy meal, with no major complaints. We look forward to eventually revisiting Em's to try out the dinner menu.
(4)
Camille C.
Tucked away gem on Capitol Hill. We've been here many times--it's one of our local favorites. Our service has always been friendly and prompt. The specials are always good, and a new appetizer choice is a cheese stuffed portabello mushroom that was large enough to share. Yum. The fish dish is usually to die for and the halibut was no exception. I opted for the house mashed potatoes instead of jasmine rice. If you can get the potatoes with your dish I highly recommend them. The butter.... Sometimes they are surprisingly busy here so I recommend resies just so you get a table.
(4)
Linda T.
Waitstaff had no idea what they were doing! Bad training. Not attentive and very poor etiquette. The meal was just okay. I expect more out of Em's and have gotten it in the past. I hope someone picks up the ball because I love this little neighborhood restaurant.
(2)
M. F.
Read the reviews from others first, and found a mixed bag. Noticed that there are not too many 2014 reviews, which means that word has finally got out that EM's is not amazing. We have been there three times, each time I wondered why we had given Em's another chance? Food is tasteless, no matter how fancy the menu is, if the food is tasteless it's not worth a dime.
(2)
Kelly G.
I've thrown a few dinner parties in the private room, and its always fantastic. Em's is a little further from downtown, which is great as you don't run into the same crowds. The service is always fantastic, and the menu is inventive and fresh. Make a reservation, and go immediately. Excellent!
(5)
Lexi S.
About 2 weeks ago, I decided to give Em's a try for a nice, quiet dinner. What a fantastic decision. This particular evening caused Em's to take a leap into my top 5 dinner spots in Salt Lake. I should have reviewed sooner, but I have been remiss. Our evening was perfect, from the dim lighting and ambiance, to the service and most importantly, the food. The bread and butter, perfect! This says a lot about a restaurant and Em's started us out on the right foot.We ordered the lentil soup, dates, and scallop appetizer. Everything came out beatuifully. We mentioned to our server that we were in no rush and wanted to take our time. His pacing was right on. The scallop appetizer was the winner for our starters but the others were still lovely puntuation marks. For entrees, we had filet and the marinated pork. Simplistic dishes in that you have a protein, potatoe and veggie on each plate, but elevated in many ways. The saucing on each plate was unique and complimented the particular protein in a way that made our palates intrigued with each bite. The potatoes were creamy and delicious and the asparagas and carrot sides were executed really well. Not an afterthought here. Everything combined on our plates in harmony. I am ready to head back for the next culinary symphony.
(5)
Quin H.
Foot was fine, but they are drunk on their own amazingness. The staff don't know how to keep thing organized, the much touted cinnamon roll was cold and the service was extremely slow. There are far better places to over-pay for Sunday breakfast.
(2)
Alison G.
One of the best meals we've ever had in a restaurant. Love the seasonal menu. LOVED the bread pudding. Loved the scallops and salmon and butternut soup and gnocchi. everything was amazing. Very relaxing and romantic atmosphere. Nice and quiet. Wonderful music. Excellent service.
(5)
AM F.
Out-of-town visit for skiing, and we found a great spot, as always with Yelp! Delicious, wholesome, handmade and relaxing. A true gem in a wonderful state.
(5)
Janean P.
I've had some good meals at Em's and when I realized they had a patio and served Sunday brunch, it didn't take long for me to invite some friends and go try it out. This time, however, things didn't go as smoothly as they have in the past. I decided to live tweet my experience. 12:05: We arrived just 5 minutes after our reserved time. 12:10 Some creative umbrella placement allowed my group not to be broiled alive on the sunny patio. 12:20 Waitress apologized for being 'frazzled' and took our order. I was disappointed to learn that they were out of crepes. 12:57 Decided to take a photo and tweeted "Em's patio is not as shady as I'd like." Someone at the table finally grabbed a waiter and asked if they could get a 2nd round of mimosas only to be told that the restaurant had run out of champagne. We all drank water. 1:21 Tweeted: "You know you've been waiting too long when someone decides to put ice on the centerpieces." The little plants in their pots were completely dry and one looked like it was dying. We might not have noticed if we'd had food in front of us. 1:24 Tweeted: "You know you've been waiting too long when you have to move the umbrella with the sun." AND it was getting really hot. 1:25 Tweeted: "You know you've been waiting too long when everyone pulls out their phone to play Words." As food continued not to arrive, phones came out in the place of plates. There's no such thing as boredom in the 21st century. 1:29: Tweeted: "Finally. $10 worth of smoked salmon benedict which took an hour and a half to come." The table fell silent as all 7 of us wolfed down our food. What took 1 1/2 hours to prepare, took about 5 minutes to consume. A bus boy explained that the kitchen had gotten slammed which delayed our orders but we left wondering why ours were the only orders affected. We'd watched people arrive after us and get their food at reasonable times. We were the last to leave the restaurant that afternoon.
(3)
Kelly S.
Tried Em's this morning for breakfast. For a Sunday morning, it was nice and quiet. Didn't have to wait for a table at all. Service was very friendly and efficient, and the atmosphere was perfect for a blustery Sunday am--casual but nice...if that makes sense., Food was tasty! I had the smoked salmon Benedict and the husband had huevos rancheros. Both were very good. I'm only giving Em's 4 stars because it was our first time there, but we will most certainly be back for both breakfast and dinner.
(4)
Elaine H.
What a perfect little neighborhood bistro. My husband and I loved this little place hidden on the hills of SLC! The crowd looked sophisticated, but not snobby. We felt very under dressed in our jeans and tshirts, but we were welcomed by a gracious host, and seated immediately. As the night wore on, the place got more and more romantic, and the food just got better and better. The short ribs were some of the best that I have ever had. This place is unassuming, cozy, and I cannot wait to stop in for brunch!
(5)
Jowanza J.
For the price you are going to get very well crafted food and an even better experience. The service is great and they are willing to make any accommodations you would like. It's also a great place for the vegetarians and vegans out there.
(5)
Christina B.
What holds this place back is its lack of experienced service. We were told a few minutes wait, but then waited roughly thirty minutes while empty tables sat unused. It was a Sunday at brunch, so we expected a wait, but not with empty tables. After seeing other reviews I wonder if part of the staff didn't show again, leading me to wonder if there will ever be consistent service at this eatery. We were seated at the same time as a group that came considerably later than we did. The server waited the latter table first and they ordered the last of the cinnamon rolls, leaving us canceling our order. Our server was forced to cover the other waitress who was clearly less competent, resulting in slower service. Once the food came, even more disappointment. Huevos rancheros with no sign of salsa. Side of potatoes that amounted to two bites. A special that was not so special : strata that was dominantly bread and very little chicken. Everything was just a little bland and needed seasoning. My whole party thought perhaps we were on a candid camera show. Overall just not impressed.
(2)
Amanda V.
I came to this lovely Capitol Hill restaurant for lunch with friends, and the whole experience was a delight. Em's blends right in to the neighborhood. In fact, I lived a couple blocks away for a year and never knew it existed. The building is a classic brick charmer with big, big windows in the front. It has a nice patio on the side for dining al fresco in nice weather. My party ordered four entrees, including the herb crepe and tamales, and they were all wonderful. The flavors were strong and delicious - no extra salt needed, hooray! The cheese-filled tamales with black beans were seriously to-die-for. Good potion sizes, too. We each ordered an entree and left very satisfied. I will say the service was a little slow. The food came out quickly enough, but the server took a long time to get us checked out (she blamed the lunch rush, but why was there only one server at lunch?). But honestly, Em's is such a pleasant place to be, I delay. While I might not go here when I'm in a rush, for a leisurely meal spent catching up with friends, it's perfect.
(4)
Alan M.
A pleasant restaurant in a charming location. The food was generally good, but very uneven. While I enjoyed most dishes, a couple were sub par, including one that was so laughably bad that I actually laughed. Overall, I wouldn't mind giving it another try.
(3)
Sam V.
After a not-so-subtle hint, wink, and a nudge to my boyfriend one day saying that I wanted to try Em's, he ended up "surprising" me with going to Em's this past date night. I will admit it, I made an overly excited squeal noise when I found out he made reservations, which, for a Friday night, I would highly recommend you do as well. The place was a little difficult to find, and parking can be a bit difficult if you don't know what you're doing (we ended up parking the street over before we saw they had a lot), but we eventually finally found our way to our destination. I really liked the feel of the space, albeit a little tight and cozy, and tad on the modern side. As far food goes, we ordered the phyllo dough wrapped goat cheese with duck confit, a special of the night, the butternut squash ravioli in a brown butter sage sauce (very popular these days), the free range chicken stuffed with goat cheese and pine nuts over mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, and the pecan bread pudding with caramel sauce and ice cream. Everything was delicious, including the unexpected salads, bread & butter. I thought all of the dishes were executed well, I just wasn't a big fan of the texture of the duck confit appetizer, and the ravioli was good, not great. I would have to say the biggest winner of the night was the bread pudding. Like Joshua S., I think this is one of the best bread puddings I've had in my life. I'm just sad that we opted to share it instead of getting one each.
(4)
Bud H.
Quaint little place. Reminds me of something in San Francisco. Some of the best short ribs around. Very, very tasty. So tasty, in fact, that I have a hard time ordering anything else.
(4)
Michelle T.
I loved this place! I had a wonderful brunch there. Self-service tea and coffee is the best. Fantastic food, really good value and the decor/ambiance is perfect. I would go back many times if I lived in SLC.
(5)
BykeRyde R.
Cute little place, friendly service. Only went for breakfast, I ordered the herbed crepes stuffed w eggs, my friend ordered the huevos rancheros. Food was more than decent, not quite a 5. I certainly appreciate that they have a waiting area with serve-yourself coffee...it's thoughtful and definitely helps the waiting go by faster !
(4)
Rae G.
Tucked away in a charming neighborhood, this local gem is not to be missed. I went on a Sunday morning and showed up right as they were opening, there were no lines and ample parking. The ambiance is charming and our server Chris was attentive and provided speedy service. I had the herbed crepes, they were fantastic with the fried apples (which are much healthier tasting than they sound). The prices were very reasonable and the coffee is self serve so you never have to wait for a warm up. The only caveat is that I didn't think the coffee was that great, but that isn't a deal breaker for me.
(5)
Jeb A.
Consistently my favorite restaurant in SLC. I absolutely love the consistently inspired seasonal menu, the friendly helpful but not overly attentive staff, and the great balance of casual/formal atmosphere which avoids the pitfall of many of SLCs other gourmet eateries - that being a superiority complex of being a fine dining establishment in a small market. Em's delivers delicious fare without haughty hubris. The only reasons I don't give em's five stars are: - the self-service coffee at brunch; the thermoses tend to run out quickly and it takes away from the luxury of full service, - on especially cold nights tables near the front door and windows are at the mercy of chilly drafts. I will always send discerning food lovers to em's.
(4)
Jamie J.
"Em, I thought you would be a Gem. But after my meal, my joy dropped: like a seed from a stem. OH Em, maybe there will be another opportunity for us to meet again." Now that I am done with my poem - I would like to start with recognizing my own bias. I Yelped (duh) Em's before I came and really had my expectations up to the ceiling. Being from Seattle, I'm not up on SLC's food game. So, maybe my expectations were too high or, maybe Yelp lost this battle - that's a first. Everything here is great, except for the food. The menu sounds great, but that's only half the battle. I ordered the goat cheese "stuffed" chicken. It really was a chicken breast with a hole on the top, covered in grainy cheese, and served with a side of overcooked, chewy, asparagus. Also served with mashed potatoes that were just ok. I have to be real here, I was almost offended at how dry my chicken was. I really don't appreciate saw dust like food, call me unique. But, I didn't even eat half of my plate (that's unheard of)! Let's try something else: The duck. Duck is beautiful meat when it cooked right. Redish pink in color, with visible juice and a nice crisp skin. Well, here comes the purple, almost black, duck with it's limp side of asparagus (sound familiar)? Also left on the plate. I think Em is deserving of 3 stars, I might sounds harsh, but my expectations were high, and there was just nothing more than satisfactory about any of the five dishes I tried. Please Note: The decor, ambiance, service, and overall experience here is delightful. It's quaint and intimate. Overall, Em I was a little let down. I'm a sucker for second chances when it comes to food. Maybe one day I can write a happy poem about you.
(3)
Julia R.
Of all the restaurants I thought of taking my 86 year old mother to on the first night of her visit from Dallas, I unfortunately, chose Em's. Good food deserves good service, something Em's Restaurant doesn't seem to understand. We reserved a table at Em's for 7:00 pm on a Wednesday night. After 80 minutes and no entree, we left. Before deciding to leave, we asked to speak to a manager and were told there is no manager. Really? Perhaps that is the problem. Em was there, in the kitchen, but she was 'busy' and sent a message that if we had a complaint about the service, we should talk to our waiter. Em, you need a course on customer service. In addition, shortly after we were seated, a glass was broken by the door to the patio and the broken glass was never swept up as people in open sandals came in and out of the door. Em, how about a course on safety?
(1)
Amanda H.
Oh me oh my. I wanted to like Ems. I really did. But alas, my dining experience was just ok...average at best. So I should have listened to Jamie J's review regarding the asparagus. I was so excited to try their herb chicken salad with asparagus. As Jamie mentioned in her review, the asparagus was so over cooked it was practically inedible. The chicken was nice tender, not dry, but it lacked in flavor. I found myself reaching for the salt shaker several times. I also had to ask for more dressing. It was a little lack luster as well. But the bleu cheese was nice and creamy. The service, while friendly, was extremely slow. We waited for more than hour after we ordered for our food. Oddly enough we saw the chef running out the back door for a few minutes and then came back in with a brown paper bag that had a container of the leafy greens in it...I am sure they were the same greens that ended up on my plate. Where did he keep them? In his trunk?? Weird. The waitress did offer the table a complimentary dessert to make up for the long wait. She brought out a bread pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Both were delish. Not sure if I'd go back again or not. We'll see... PS They don't split checks, so be prepared with cash if you're paying separately.
(3)
Christopher W.
Em's is a SLC gem hidden just west of the Capitol. This place is a hip dining hot spot that I fell in love with upon my first visit. It is very popular so call ahead and make a reservation. If you are looking for a relaxed fine dining experience, this is the place for you! The food will blow your mind. I appreciate that everything is fresh and local. Even the ice cream is made in house! They have a standard menu which is available year round along with a seasonal menu that changes frequently. The servings are small but the flavors are HUGE! During the summer months make sure to sit on the patio, it is amazing. This is my favorite place to dine in Utah. Em's has become my go to spot to take out of town visitors. When my parents visit from Phoenix we head straight to Em's from the airport because they love this place as much as I do. Things I love to eat here:* Beet Salad Goat Cheese Salad Halibut (It was a summer special) Artichoke Appetizer (also a special, but I dream of this tasty delight) Potato Lasagna Homemade Habanero Ice cream (will burn your mouth and blow your mind) *I have never hated anything I have eaten here.
(5)
Robert R.
Went last night for a rehearsal dinner. The location and decoration are good. The potato lasagna was dry. The creme brulee was also dry.
(2)
Jessica T.
Went there on a Sunday night when a lot of places in SLC are closed. Neither my dining companion or I were overly impressed. The food was okay, but not of the caliber I expected after reading Yelp. I had the fig appetizer and the halibut entree, and my companion had the corn & poblano soup and the spinach ravioli. None of these were above average. Friendly service and pleasant ambiance, but good (not great) food.
(3)
Ashlee M.
The bread pudding!
(5)
Taige E.
Always great food and atmosphere.
(5)
Anne W.
Feeling a little Spring in my step (I'm must be delusional from the missing hour of sleep), I went to Em's on a whim for brunch. The space is nice and bright. It's small, but not crowded. There is enough room between tables that you aren't bumping your chair back into anybody and throwing off their dining grove. There are also fresh flowers on the table, which I thought was a nice touch. Really, my favorite part was how nice and sunny and open the place felt. The waitress was nice, but quiet. I think she tried to be as invisible as possible, which I would appreciate if I had a dining companion with me, but I didn't. She was invisible to the point that I didn't get my drink refiled (BAD) and I did have to wait awhile for my food. I didn't mind waiting for my food. I'm Italian and used to waiting for my meals, especially if it means they will be tasty. But, I don't like cold drinks when they aren't supposed to be cold. Refresh my beverage, please. I ordered the Herbed Crepe. Very good and worth the wait. It was stuffed full of eggs, Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, ham and red peppers. The eggs were cooked through (I hate slimy eggs!) and the flavors were nicely balanced. The crepe was just the right amount of crispy, not soggy like a nasty Village Inn crepe. Everything tasted fresh. Overall, a great little place. Great atmosphere and great food. I will definitely try it again to see if I just hit the waitress on a bad day.
(3)
Brooke C.
Had a phenomenal lunch here with my mom the other day. We shared the scrumptious potato pancakes and each had a delicious herbed crepe, accompanied by a crisp Pinot Grigio. I plan to return whenever I'm in Salt Lake.
(5)
Shauna M.
Great location. Very quaint. De Service was terrific. Food selection was amazing. Presentation divine. Taste was over the top delicious!!
(5)
Catherine A.
It seems I have had the opposite experience of some users. I had excellent service and only mediocre food. I had a turkey sandwich on sourdough bread. It was pretty bland. Kinda wish I had tried something else.
(3)
Jana A.
Been eating here for years and it's my favorite restaurant in all of Salt Lake. We had our wedding rehearsal dinner here and have celebrated nearly every special occasion from birthdays to promotions to anniversaries here. We love the wait staff and have tried nearly everything on the menu. I certainly have my favorites and some items I think should be changed, but overall we love it. It's right in our neighborhood and Emily the owner lives nearby. It's so nice to support a delicious establishment right in our neighborhood.
(5)
becky r.
love it love it love it!! Not pretentious, well priced, tasteful menu, and friendly service. Oh and great location in the Marmalade district of downtown Salt Lake City near the Capital. Plus they have a covered patio. Everything I've tried there I've enjoyed from the house salad with fresh parmesan, to the asparagus soup, and turkey sandwich. Don't forget dessert also. This place is a must try for sure!
(5)
Kiesha J.
Hip lil spot near the Capitol. I tried Em's with a group of friends last summer and fell in love with it. It's a little restaurant, but what it lacks in space it makes up for in charm. Awesome art work, fresh flowers on every table, great music and even better food. We started with a stuffed artichoke as an appetizer. I have been back a handful of times and haven't seen this on the menu since that first time. I keep coming back in hopes of seeing it again. It was that good. It was stuffed with a mayo based sauce and bacon. Umm how can you beat bacon/mayo/artichoke? My entree was rack of lamb served with potatoes, shallot custard & jalapeno jelly. It was amazing. Melt in your mouth amazing. We finished with a hot brownie topped with habanero chocolate icecream. To die for. I've since been back a handful of times and have yet to have a bad or even ok meal. Love this place. In fact I even moved 3 houses down from Em's in hopes of seeing that stuffed artichoke on the menu again. I kid, but having Em's next door has changed my life.
(5)
Jason C.
Em's is one of my favorite restaurants in Salt Lake City. Every time I go there, I am blown away with the quality of the food and the taste. For a few weeks out of the year, Em serves a sweet corn that is impeccable. I only wish it was available all the time. The meat dishes, fish dishes, and vegetables are all delicious and their wine selection was impressive. Delicious!!
(5)
John N.
Painfully slow describe EM's in a nutshell. Nutshell describes portion sizes. First, parking is on the street, and if the restaurant is busy, you'll get a little walking exercise. After arriving we were seated quickly, but after 20 minutes the waiter finally acknowledged us and asked if we were ready to order. Really, ready to order? After ordering it took another 20 minutes to get our house salads and prison ration piece of bread. The house salad consists of a few pieces of salad, which makes Costco samples seem like a feast. 30 minutes later came our entries, which were good--good and small. We left hungry and thirsty, since after being served the waiter did not come back once. I resorted to drinking my wife's water since I ran out and never had a refill. 20 more minutes to get a bill--couldn't wait to get out. Overall, a real European dining experience--slow, unfriendly service and portion sizes meant for a French poodle. I went straight home and fixed myself some dinner. This place has shamefully poor service, prison ration servings and a dry well. Avoid!
(1)
Christine N.
Truly as good as it gets. My husband and I have been several times and have been newly impressed each time. Food is fresh and creative, always beautiful. Menu is eclectic, my favorite are the starters, we order one of each. Vegetarian lasagna on the dinner menu was our favorite in the fall. Not sure if it's always on the menu as Em's uses local produce. Price is very reasonable, lunch menu even more so. Can't say enough about Em's!
I love this place. the food is special, the environment is lovely. I can't get enough of it. I regularly go in for dinner (haven't tried brunch). Hands down the best meal i've had in salt lake in the last year. I always enjoy the food. I'm reading the reviews here and there are gripes about salt and what not. I really have to disagree - the food seemed to be always seasoned to perfection when I've eaten there (6-8 times so far). I do know that they keep fresh ingredients. It's not a big chain so they do occasionally run out of items - but with an extensive menu for the size of the restaurant & kitchen, you're bound to find something else you will love. I've worked in about 12 restaurants myself (NY, LA, SLC) and believe that this is truly a great spot. Be sure to make your reservation ahead of time. It's not always easy getting in! They are obviously doing something right! #1 Favorite restaurant in SLC
(5)
Jenni S.
We arrived between noon and 1pm on Sunday for brunch and there was no wait. Sweet! They do have bloody marys and mimosas. The coffee was self serve, which was an interesting concept. No waiting for the server to fill your cup, just head up to the bar whenever. We had a sticky bun and the roll of the day (maple bacon) and they were pretty good. Slathered in very sweet glaze. I enjoyed my frittata, paired with the fried apples. Husband ordered the special which was a strata (bread pudding) with chicken and swiss cheese and he paired his with the potatoes. We were both satisfied. The bill was slightly spendy, about $40 for the two of us, only one alcoholic beverage, but we did splurge on the sweet rolls. Our server was "cute as a button" and did a great job. Loved the neighborhood which we aren't really familiar with. It was fun to check it out.
(4)
Aaron J.
After a friend turned us on to this out-of-the-way restaurant we were excited to try what we heard so much about. We like to support the local small businesses so we really wanted to like Em's. We ate lunch and the food was so-so and the service left much to be desired. The place wasn't busy, so after a slow-motion server and a kitchen that shared this same characteristic we had too much time to think about how the food was, well, just okay. I think it deserves another shot. Maybe dinner next time.
(2)
Leah B.
The holidays took us back to Salt Lake City and for New Years Eve we made reservations at Em's. We had previously eaten at Em's before moving to Denver, but not in several years. The prices looked good, and we had really enjoyed the atmosphere in the past. Again, the atmosphere was wonderful and warm. The restaurant is small enough that each room feels intimate, but with enough ambient sound to make it friendly. But the atmosphere was really the only impressive part of the meal. There was no bartender so our waiter needed to mix drinks and he did not know how to make several beverages ordered by people in our party. We also brought several bottles of wine and the corkage fee was $15/bottle--pretty expensive for Salt Lake City. On to the menu. There were two separate menus. FULL menus. The regular menu and the specials menu were quite extensive. In a restaurant as small as Em's a menu that extensive is troublesome because you know that the dishes were not as carefully thought out. The chef went for quantity over quality. For example, every dish had the same side--an unimpressive brown-butter sautee of green beans and carrots. I ordered a lamb chop dish with a mint jelly. While the meat was tastily prepared the mint jelly was clearly spooned from a jar and haphazardly slapped on the plate. The dish had no harmony. Taylor ordered a beef filet with mashed potatoes. The cut was not very good and was, overall, forgettable. However, we each had a frisee salad which was tasty. I hate to pan a restaurant like Em's because it is in a great neighborhood and the atmosphere is delightful. Furthermore, it is a small independently owned fine dining restaurant in a city full of cheap family restaurants and chains. However, the chef would do well to focus on several small dishes
(3)
Keith R.
This casual yet classy neighborhood place is a delightful find just 5 minutes drive from the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square. This is far and away one of the best restaurants in Salt Lake City and food is right up there with the best neighborhood places in the Bay Area. There were at least 3 appetizers competing directly for my attention and the entrees did not disappoint either - especially the meat dishes. Dessert was also truly stellar - I loved the chocolate ice cream flavored with Habanero pepper. It was the first time I had spicy ice cream and I'm already trying to figure out how I can get back to Utah for a second helping. The staff was friendly and helpful without being over-solicitous. The building is historical and charming much like the surrounding area. I highly recommend Em's and look forward to my next visit.
(4)
Nick J.
From simple side-dishes to some of the more creative brunch dishes, this easily became one of my favorite Sunday brunch spots. The herbed crepe was packed full and delicious. Homemade sticky buns that are not too-sticky, but perfectly sweet and enormous. Very comfortable patio.
(4)
Andrew P.
I have eaten sunday brunch at Em's twice now and my conclusion is that they are inconsistent. Today we were told that they had ran out of two of the menu items. Furthermore, when our meals did arrive they were not what we ordered. The first time that we went to Em's it was a good experience. However, my feeling today is that I don't want to go back to Em's ever again because I can't be sure what kind of experience I will have there. I really want to like Em's because it is in my neighborhood, but I don't think that I can.
(2)
Picabo L.
This place may serve a great Sunday brunch, but we wouldn't know since we arrived mid morning were told that they stopped serving food despite being open until 1:00pm. There was no shortage of open tables and the waitstaff was downright unapologetic and rude.
(1)
Todd S.
The roasted zucchini was great. Cool and chill place. Great value for the money for lunch.
(4)
Cori L.
The food was delicious (think soups, salads and sandwiches) & the atmosphere was quaint & cozy! I'll be back :) Check their hours before you head over though, they have a slightly strange schedule.
(5)
Bryton B.
Went to Em's for the first time today for brunch. I didn't really plan on it so I waited until about 10 minutes before 1 o'clock, not knowing that, that was is when they stop serving. My server was very nice and still sat me, gladly offering me to start with some coffee. I ended up choosing the Salmon eggs Bennidict and a Mimosa. The chef also came out and asked how my meal was. It was all quite delicous, and with the excellent service I received I will absolutely be returning to Em's for lunch and/or dinner! Thanks to my friend Tim for the reccomendation....and Ooooooh look, Fancy is a fan too! ;-)
(4)
Adam D.
As someone who used to take out-of-town guests to Em's as an example of good, regional cuisine in a comfortable, unpretentious setting, I have to say that the last few times (fall 2008) have seen a drop off in quality to the point that I'll take folks somewhere else. The offerings (which seems to have been the exact same for the past three years) are fairly flavorful--particularly the maple barbecue pork chop--but the meat can be a little tough. If you have room for dessert, go for the chocolate habanero ice cream, which was unavailable the last time we were there :-( That said, the outdoor patio is great for summer eating, the location near the Capitol gives a great view, and it has an overall nice atmosphere with attentive wait staff, so if you don't mind average food, you will enjoy yourself.
(3)
Raquelito M.
I was definitely skeptical about this place, given the limited lunch menu. I as prepare to be sorely disappointed, and only found myself raving how delicious the food was after the first bite! I had my toddler in tow, and the restaurant was extremely accomodating (tot wanted mashed potatoes, which Em's uses in their potato pancakes & lox; I asked for a side of potatoes, not fried, and they brought me a bowl). I will definitely make another trip there.
(5)
Peter F.
Unbelievable find in the Marmalade. Upscale bistro with balanced and appealing menu. Table linens and terrific service. But wear your jeans and boots. It doesn't get better than this.
(5)
Davin K.
Driving by, never knowing what days they were open, seeing the cars that lined the streets of the Bev Hills side of town, always was curious and finally one Sunday morning it was a nice walk around the hill, and coffee was needed. At least that and maybe a danish shouldn't be too expensive. But we were surprised, delectable sounding breakfasts for under ten bucks. The pancakes were huge an fluffy.. the Huevos Rancheros was divine, I'd be proud to make it like that at home. The coffee kept flowing and the server was quick, even with a full patio to deal with. This is on the list of regulars now, I think.
(4)
Richard S.
Em's gets coveted 5 stars because its hip. Its small, on capitol hill, Roy Lichtenstein prints and other great art work is posted, the food is local, the menu is creative......no more needs to be said.
(5)
Robin F.
Love Em's. Especially Sunday brunch on the patio.
(5)
Tom N.
Neighborhood gem - nothing has blown me away but I would be stoked to have this place in my neighborhood.
(3)
David S.
A nice spare little dining room and a lovely outdoor seating area when the weather is neither too hot nor too cold. The menu is heavy on salads and imaginative sandwiches at lunchtime. I don't go for dinner- i found it pricey and got too little to eat.
(4)
Bette K.
Unless you have an inside scoop, you would never know about this place. Luckily, we did. Em's sits on a residential street surrounded by houses. The atmosphere is cool, clean, and hip without trying too hard. All of us enjoyed our food and the service was friendly but in a laid back way. If I were to ever own a restaurant, I'd want it to be like Em's. If you get through your meal and can handle dessert, then go for either the homemade brownie or the chocolate habanero ice cream (also made in house). OMG. The only negative was that the wine list was kind of lame unless you were willing to shell out huge bucks for a bottle. Simple solution - bring your own and cough up the corkage. If we ever find ourselves back in SLC, we will definitely return to Em's. If you live here or spend a lot of time here, then we encourage you to check it our for yourself!
(4)
Dave R.
This is a small, out of the way gem. Food is always good, they have a great patio in the summer, and service is always friendly. This restaurant is in the top picks for me for Salt Lake City
(4)
Kyle M.
I ordered the veal ravioli and didn't love it. It was a bit pricey for what I got.
(3)
Max S.
Sunday brunch here is excellent. The dining area is a bit cramped, particularly in the winter months with no outdoor seating, but brunch is still sufficiently on the DL that you can easily find parking on the street nearby.
(4)
Benjamin O.
Em's provides a pleasant and relatively casual setting in a residential neighborhood. A spacious patio is cooled by a breeze and was a good choice for a warm summer evening. 4 stars for the setting. Service was attentive but not intrusive, professional and friendly. 4 stars for the service. The food was uneven. Flatbread appetizer was little more than toasted pita with some melted cheese on it. The local lamb was bland, excessively fatty, and tough in places...barely a few nibbles of edible meat on each of the three small pieces. Pork tenderloin with dried fruit was better, with the brined meat tender and juicy. Deserts were decent...good sorbets, a tasty bread pudding.... 3 stars for the food. I go to restaurants primarily for the food, and I rate Em's 3 stars on this basis. If you're not that picky and just want some standard restaurant fare in a nice setting, call it 4 stars.
(3)
Tom W.
Excellent food, awesome service, dog friendly patio, parking behind the Restrauant, what more can you ask for? The halibut was out of this world! Short ribs were to die for! Beef was wonderful. Good wine list. I'm totally hooked!
(5)
Josh S.
Dear reader: please don't interpret my rating here as an indication that this restaurant serves good/average/redeemable in any way food. Let me be clear: the food here sucks. There is one redeeming factor, however: the people are awesome. The servers knew exactly when to step in and ask what we needed and when to back off and leave us alone. One recommendation: only order the Salmon Roulade when/if you are prepared to admit that rubber is your favorite base ingredient. Or if you don't mind spending about 18 hours sitting on the porcelain throne trying to pass a glue-ey Boulder.
(2)
Chris P.
We discovered this place this morning after reading a review about it. Located in the 'Marmalade' district of Salt Lake City the architecture varies from Russian influenced to gothic revival to victorian mansions. We showed up right at opening time. They have self serve coffee which is a great thing. The wait staff was professional, courteous and friendly. I had the Salmon Eggs Benedict and Shannan had the Fritada. Both were absolutely excellent. We were going to try one of the sticky buns, but we forgot to order one...so next time. It appears that they take reservations - so since it is a small place it might be wise to do so. We looked at the dinner menu and it seemed very interesting. Can't speak on that...yet.
(5)
Rebecca W.
I try to only review restaurants that I had a good experience at. But I had such a negative experience at Em's Restaurant this past weekend, I had to share. Lots of hype, but completely overpriced. I'm fine spending good money for a good meal. But this was anything but. We had a reservation for 9 people at 7 pm. We got there right at 7 pm, but the rest of our group didn't stroll in until 7:15. I don't believe it was an issue, because the dining room was practically empty, only one other table of people. Our waitress seemed nice, but the service was incredibly slow. She finally took our order around 7:30. But we didn't receive our salads until 7:50. The house salad was rather weak, as in literally the lettuce was completely weak and limp. I could barely get any leaves onto my fork. There were no vegetables or toppings, just a weak spring mix tossed in a vinaigrette. Some of our party ordered the beet salad and they seemed to like it. But they had to pay $5 extra to add the beet salad to their entree. We didn't get our entrees until 8:45. That's a very long time to wait between courses. I tried to be excited and forget about how hungry I was and just enjoy my meal. But there was so little of it, that it was difficult. I ordered the goat cheese and pine nuts stuffed chicken ($20) served with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The chicken had hardly any flavor. Every bite needed to have at least some of the stuffing to be slightly enjoyed. The rest of the breast was dry and flavorless. The mashed potatoes were good, but the seasonal vegetables was literally 2 green beans, and two thin carrot shavings. Definitely left more t be desired. My husband order the New York strip steak with blue cheese and caramelized onions ($25). It came with seasonal vegetables and "roasted potatoes." The potatoes definitely weren't roasted. They were boiled. They had no seasonings or oil or any additional flavor on top. He had to scrape off the toppings from the steak to eat with the potatoes. The potatoes were scorching hot, but the rest of the food was lukewarm. Onto the steak. My husband had asked for the steak to be cooked medium. He took the first few bites into the steak and enjoyed it. but when he got slightly to the center, it was much more pink. Not a problem, he had ordered medium. He cut one more level into it, and was completely raw through the entire center. At this point, we had already been at the restaurant for 2 hours and he had eaten most of the other food on his plate. We could have sent it back, but we didn't want to wait any longer, we just wanted to leave as soon as possible. It was a real disappointment. We had high hopes for this place and had heard such good things. But no part of the experience was enjoyable. The seats were uncomfortable. The bathroom was not up to par, everything took 3x longer than we were expecting, parking was terrible, and we left very frustrated about our experience because of all the time and money we lost. Next time, I'm convincing the group to go to Cafe Rio.
(2)
Sergei N.
This restaurant is in a residential area close to Temple Square. We stopped by here briefly to catch a quick lunch and left not super impressed. My sandwich on sourdough bread was super plain. It was good but not really what i expect at a restaurant for ten bucks. The herb crepe with cheese was the exact opposite - it was the richest most cheese (soft) filled item i've ever eaten. It was difficult to eat because the flavor was so ... cheesy. The texture was way too gooey. There were also a ton of people doing somekind of a meeting there on a wednesday morning at 11. I'm assuming it wasnt an early lunch.. Overall I'd skip the place.
(3)
Lisa B.
Em's is a delightful spot, with a lovely setting and a menu that steers toward light, inventive cuisine. The brunch is especially delicious and the garden bower is a beautiful place to be outdoors yet completely shaded in summer. I'm afraid, though, that I have to knock a star off for the unpredictable hours. We sometimes walk there from the Avenues -- and after more than one experience of its being closed when the website said it would be open, or being told that seating for brunch was over at 12:45, we learned to call and check before going.
(4)
Dan R.
Wow were we impressed. My group of six pulled up in two taxis and we asked our driver if he had the right address because it sure did't look like he had after he stopped in a residential neighborhood. But there it was across the street, Em's is small, but we had called for a reservation and had a great table. Drink orders were filled quickly and we ordered some appetizers - Smoked Salmon & Crab Rolls with Avocado, Sesame Seed Vinaigrette & Cilantro Oil for $12.00, Tamales stuffed with Goat's Cheese served on a bed of Chipotle Con Crema for $9.00, and a nice charcuterie plate pff the special menus. For my entree I had the Red Wine Braised Short Ribs with Seasonal Vegetables & Mashed Potatoes for $24.00. It was served with a salad. I really liked my entree. The meat was tender and delicious. Everything on the plate was excellent. My share of the bill (appys, wine, entree and tip) was $60 and I thought it was a very good value for the quality of the food
We had dinner at Em's last night. The service was abominable, the food worse and the help uncaring. It will be the last time there. I wondered if it has changed ownership
(1)
Jeffrey S.
Quaint. Quiet. Unassuming. Neighborhood spot. I've heard all of these things used in reference to Em's, and it was high time I check the place out. It's all of those things. It's the perfect picture of a Capitol Hill neighborhood eatery done right. It has an interesting building, a simple menu, a host of regulars, but it's upscale enough that you feel like you're having a night out. Picture an old brick building, meant to look old, but also contemporary and new. The art on the walls is modern, and the tables are neatly set and the servers and host alarmingly proficient. No teenage girls texting in between seating guests. No riff raff. That's what you've got. Surely you can put up with the mildly inconvenient street parking for that tradeoff? Now let's get to the food. Em's may have occasional specials, but they stick to the same menu pretty faithfully. If you're a regular, rejoice in the specials. if not, you'll be fine with one of the tried and true standbys. They're really honed these things in. Amongst the standouts (both from my belly and from those that others always seem to rave about and I got to try) are the rack of lamb and the pork chop. Lamb is so hard to do, and they give it a delicate treatment and offer some jalapeño jelly to balance out the meat flavor. And the pork chop with its maple and bacon flavors. Not, like, "Oh, look at me! I'm bacon and I'm a gimmick." But genuinely used as a flavor. I also was blown away by the sweet potato puree. I know that's supposed to be a side that they throw on, but honey, oh honey, that was sweet magic. Others rave about the phyllo goat cheese app--but I'd skip it. Go for the patee. But hold on tight for flavors in your mouth, what with the mustard and olives served alongside. It's potent. I was bracing myself for pure magic with the bread pudding. Maybe it was an off night or expectations were too high, but it didn't knock my socks off. Should you order it? Oh yes, definitely. But don't expect that it will redefine the dessert for you. What a pleasant time. Sad I had a dinner scheduled here a few years ago that got cancelled. I would have loved to have tried it sooner. They're just so quiet (chefs never compete or participate in any other restaurant thingy-events that happen all the time in SLC), but once you discover it, you'll want to join them for dinner more often.
(5)
Karsten B.
I went here for lunch and from what I've heard, their dinner menu is better. My sandwich was fine, nothing to complain about, but nothing special. The chocolate habanero ice cream, however, was amazing and worth four stars alone. I do like the business model and will probably return for dinner at some point.
(4)
Fae L.
Hidden little gem in the downtown neighborhood of Marmalade. Quaint little cafe with charm. The food portions are perfect. We (husband & I) didn't walk away feeling sickly full or with a gut ache. The food is fresh and perfect. Service is good as well.
(5)
Ann A.
We ate there tonight. Our food total did not exceed $100 for our party of four, but our bill came to over $170. We decided this must be to an outrageous corkage fee. (one that was not listed on the menu, and that we should have asked about as we brought our own wine.) The service was terrible, to say the least. We had to call for our waitress for anything - removal of plates, refills on drinks, reminders of food, etc. Having said that, the food itself was succulent. The disappointment to us is that we probably won't be back due to the awful service, hidden pricing, and the long, long wait for the outstanding entrees. Sad.
(2)
Anita C.
A fellow yelper suggested this place for brunch, and I am so glad he did. Cute little place, loved all the art. It is pretty small so it does get crowded quickly. I ordered the Smoked Salmon Benedict and it was delicious. Everything was balanced really well, and the portion size was great. The eggs were cooked perfectly, the potato pancakes were just crispy enough, and I loved the dill creme fraiche. My friend ordered the herbed crepe which was equally delicious. Want to go back and check out their dinner menu.
(4)
Walter C.
Right off the bat, Amelia is a sweetheart. Always with a smile and quick with the service. A unique talent considering she is the only one working the tables. More than just a big tip, she deserves all the accolades and praise that can be given to her. The food is good, the Italian Sausage Sandwich is a winner. Desserts are the real winner here. Pecan Bread Pudding is a plus and needs to be tried. Over all this a nice place for a peaceful lunch.
(4)
Charline D.
We walked through the snowstorm to have a brunch in Em's. The place is small, cosy and not noisy. Of course on Sunday everybody wants to go there so we had to wait 30 minutes but they have a little coffee house across the corridor. The food is good and not expensive at all. I will definitively come back if I' in Salt Lake City.
(5)
Lloyd A.
Very nice small restaurant in a residential neighborhood with inside and patio dining. Very eclectic menu with a great variety of dishes for every taste. Friendly and attentive staff. Great desserts and expresso provided for a super finish. Absolutely a must when in Salt Lake City
(5)
Jacob B.
This place was very good! The people were friendly, the patio was very enjoyable. They didn't rush us at all, they let me and my girlfriend sit back and relax. Which is what you want on a Sunday brunch! huevos rancheros was amazing!!!!!
(5)
Julianne H.
I got the Dried Fruit Stuffed Pork Tenderloin with roasted potatoes in a bacon sherry vinaigrette. It was good but nothing special. I loved the restaurant atmosphere, the staff is very friendly, and I would recommend bringing people here. Even though I didn't love my entree, I was impressed by this place!
(4)
Peggy C.
The service was great and the food tasty. The place sits atop a steep hill and gives you the feel of being in San Francisco The warm potatoe salad with mixed green was a delicious, it had a wonderfully light vinaigrette. Dessert, the bread pudding with bourbon pecan ice cream was absolutely amazing. It was a nice end to a lovely lunch.
(4)
Kacey K.
Went to Em's on May 28th for a graduation dinner with my family. While the food was delicious the service was terrible. From the moment we walked in the door our server treated us with contempt. We ended up having to share water glasses because they weren't refilled or we simply didn't have enough glasses. Our server never followed up and checked if we needed anything after our food was delivered. When bringing back the receipts after paying she just threw them on the table and walked away without speaking a word. And that's just a few of the things that occurred last night. I don't see any reason why our group deserved to be treated this way, but it put a damper on an evening of celebration.
(3)
Cameron C.
An absolute gem. Tucked away in a residential neighborhood up by the Capitol, I'm very glad it was recommended to me because I don't think I would have ever found it on my own. This definitely will be added to my SLC dining rotation. Garden patio was very quaint, perfect for a summer evening meal. Service was very friendly and unobtrusive. Started with the tuna on cucumber and the tomato/mozzarella/prosciutto appetizers, both light and fresh and very tasty. Was surprised by a course of complimentary salads for our table. Then went on to the main course of pinenut and goat cheese stuffed chicken w/ veggies and mashed potatoes, which (although I hardly ever order chicken when dining out) was a great call. Also tasted the halibut, which was very nice. There were so many other things on the menu that looked exceptional, I'm definitely going to need to come back soon to further round out my perception of this place -- but great first time around.
(5)
Nate S.
Em's could easily be the winner of a "Design Your Neighborhood Restaurant" contest. And, since I just moved into the neighborhood, I am also a winner. Lovely place for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
(5)
Laurence B.
Returned to Em's Restaurant last night for the first time in years. It is still a great cozy spot for having dinner with friends. I had the potato lasagna, which was a hit. Molten chocolate cake lacked an oozing center, which I would call a miss. So this recent visit was much like those I remember: Em's is a really good place to get a decent meal but always is lacking something to keep it from being great.
(4)
Lindsay K.
The tomato appetizer special was amazing. It was topped with a pesto sauce, balsamic reduction, prosciutto, and delicious creamy mozzarella. I had the salmon dish for my entree. It too was delicious, well cooked. It was on a bed of creamy cabbage, and while also good, was a bit too creamy for my taste. Overall the food was great, but a bit overpriced. The service was a bit slow, which I would have minded if I hadn't been enjoying my companion and our conversation.
(4)
Mike G.
We had been looking for a nice, quaint restaurant with quality food to remind us of something you would find in our home town of Chi-town. Sorry, my "better half" made me say that. Anyway, yelp helped us stumble upon this little gem and we checked it out last Thursday night. The place was not packed but I chalk that up to it being Halloween night. The ambiance was fantastic, low lighting, not loud, soft music in the background and a quiet staff. We started with two appetizers. One being a flat bread that was pretty good and the other being scallops. The scallops were very good as well. Our dinners were actually fantastic but we felt they were a little over priced. My wife ordered butternut squash ravioli with a browned butter sage sauce. I think hers was a little over priced for the quantity. I ordered the pork chops with mashed potatoes. All in all, the food was above average. We ended with a vanilla bean cake with raspberry sauce. The cake was a tad dry to be honest but had good flavor. I ordered the bourbon pecan ice cream. It was absolutely amazing. With that we ordered tea and coffee. All in all, we left pleased. The service was very good, food very good, pricing was decent and entire experience above average. One of the better restaurants we have eaten at in Utah.
(4)
Shane K.
We LOVE Em's... We just moved to the downtown area and have been meaning to try Em's for months. Finally tried it and it will be our new regular spot! The location is super cool - kind of hidden away by the capital building. Love the simple feel and design of the restaurant and the food is off the hook.
(5)
Pooja P.
My friend has talked about Em's several times and I was excited to try out her favorite brunch place in SLC. We arrived to a mostly empty restaurant and were told that the tables were unavailable due to reservations and other people waiting. About 20 minutes later we were the first ones to be seated- it seemed that it was easier for the waitress to deal with her current customers rather than add new ones. My friend ordered the corned beef hash with a tea and I ordered the huevos rancheros. When the food arrived and my friend asked why she didn't get the toast that was on the menu, the waitress said that she never gives the toast without someone asking for it, however she didn't make that clear when we were ordering. My friend then ordered the toast, which she never received. Her tea did not arrive until the end of the meal, and was the wrong flavor, and we didn't get any water refills. The entire time the waitress apologized that it's this busy every week and that there wasn't anything she could do about it. We left brunch sorely disappointed by the service and it went from being my friend's favorite brunch spot to one she and I will not return to unless they hire more help and train their wait staff better. It's too bad because the only reason Em's gets 2 stars is that my huevos rancheros were delicious.
(2)
Tiana G.
Nicest waitress on the entire planet. Most delicious Benedict on the entire planet.
(5)
Steve K.
Very good food, fairly reasonably priced and they take a reservation! Their butter is some of the best butter I've had. You almost keep asking for more bread and butter because the butter is so good. The salad's are great as are the appetizers. Most of the entrees are also very good. Considering the reasonable price, very good food and nice atmosphere, I recommend this place.
(4)
Nathan I.
Brunch is very underwhelming. Ordered the two eggs and bacon with potatoes (easiest thing in the world to make). Waited over 45 minutes and waitress came once to fill up drinks. There was nobody else in the restaurant either, so why it took so long is a bit confusing. They said they were overwhelmed at this time of day. Once I got the food, it was under portioned, dry, plain, and unseasoned. The bacon was the only reason for 2 stars rather than one as it was thicker than a regular McDonalds slice. The waitress seemed nice though. Would not recommend if you're looking for brunch and are hungry because you WILL wait.
(2)
Andrea C.
I've been here twice,in one month, and I have been extremely satisfied each time. The servers are great as well. It's a must if you are new to the area or just visiting!
(5)
Nicholas T.
These guys are awesome!!! We brought our Dog "Lucy" with us and they treated her as if she was a customer. If you are looking for amazing food amazing environment and a place that caters to dogs.. This is the place. They make you feel like this is your own personal restaurant. Keep up the great work guys.. You are our new favorite spot!
(5)
Bryan C.
Really cute set up. Service was good, a bit slow but that's because it was kinda packed. The house salad was really good. We had the tamales for appetizer, kinda small so not good for sharing. I had the lamb which was excuisite but the portion was very small, I was still a bit hungry afterwards. My wife had the pork chop, she loved it and the portion was very decent. We had raspberry crème broulle for desert which was absolutely fantastic. Overall our experience was satisfying . we would recommend this place, it is worth the try .
(4)
Denise L.
I love this place. Though it is definitely expensive, despite the $$ yelp rating. The atmosphere is very nice. Quiet, clean, and nice outdoor seating underneath an grape-vined awning. Our waiter, Seth, was very helpful and gave us lots of information on the menu and drinks. Appetizers: we had 2 specials: the scallops with corn were absolutely fantastic and definitely the best thing we ate. We also had the proscuitto wrapped figs that were stuffed with goat cheese. Delicious! The entress come with a house salad. House salad is only okay-lettuce drizzled with vinegar and some cheese. I had the halibut, which was very good. My husband had the rack of lamb, which is actually 3 lamb chops. It came with a tasty potato side. I look forward to returning here.
(5)
patti g.
Was in Salt Lake for business with a friend who used to live there and knew about Em's. It is a hidden gem. Quite, unassuming but with a great vibe. Food and service both amazing. What a great place to go hang out with friends and be able to have great conversation over great food. Can't wait to go back.
(5)
Victoria H.
Em's on a weeknight is just as great as any busy weekend. Last night we stopped in with a couple of friends. Between the 4 of us we ordered the scallops, lamb patties and dates for appetizers. The dates were (surprisingly) the group's favorite. For entrees we ordered the marinated pork chop, a duck breast special, beef tenderloin and short rib. Each of us taste tested all the dishes. The runaway winner was the short rib. Yum. Em's is still on my short list of recommendations.
(4)
L N.
Cute boutique type environment below the Capitol I think has some great potential, however, it starts with the people completely unfriendly besides the barista he was great! Jeff the first team member that greeted us 1. Wrote the wrong name down 2. Gave away our table 3. Zero personality with a lack of understanding in the hospitality industry after Jeff we had another team member who wasn't wearing a name tag and threw our waters on the table and never had the option to order something to drink besides the coffee I brought from the coffee lounge. Well were ready to order and immediately we're told they're out of Rolls, Corn Beef Hash, and crepes. Yet another management issue. If you don't like the service industry get out! I wouldn't recommend this staff to the local McDonald's!
(1)
Rich T.
Habanero ice cream might be good but on this Sunday morning they are glacially slow in serving so be warned. They do about 10 plates every 30 minutes so make sure u count so u can estimate the wait. Nice spot I think. The food was pretty good, but just beware of the wait.
I must agree with the reviewer below. If I could design my perfect neighborhood restaurant, this would be it. It's not far for us to go fortunately because we will be back often! First of all Em's have strange hours. The waitress is the one that told us this so to make sure we always call and make a reservation (which I LOVE to do) so that we always know it's open. She said they do a lot of weddings and private parties. The place is CUTE! It's an old, charming building and the patio (in season) looks to be adorable! The service was great and our food was incredible. I wish they had some different options on the appetizer side of things, but in the end I opted for just an entree. The table had steaks and also the tuna. All meals were excellent. I had the filet and it was perfect. The wine list was great and not too pricy. I can't wait to go again!
(5)
Jean W.
In anticipation of a Sunday morning crowd, our party of five secured a patio reservation. GPS got us to Main Street - not one of us was familiar with this area just west of the Capitol. Em's is a little hard to detect tucked away in its residential neighborhood. Walking up, the surrounding area is wooded and beautiful. The interior was interesting and cozy, and no detectable crowd had yet gathered. We were greeted and promptly seated at our umbrella-outfitted table in the sun. The south patio is partially shaded by a beautiful wood trellis proudly displaying prolific real grapevines; many other interesting plants adorn the perimeter. It was really very lovely here in the morning. The brunch menu is brief but solid, offering a few delicious sounding options. We loved that they feature a "Roll of the Day," or you can choose their everyday Cinnamon Sticky Buns. We were intrigued by a Raspberry Peach Roll looking for a home via our waiter, so we graciously offered to adopt and devour it. Divine...but a little like eating dessert first. Oh well. Bigger tragedies have occurred. Here's what we ordered - - Southwest Casserole (brunch special of the day) - Smoked Salmon Frittata - Bacon & Eggs/Ham & Eggs - Herbed Crepe with Ham & Scrambled Eggs Everyone agreed that the food was very good, even down to the toast which came with its own dollop of jam on the plate. The highlight meal was the Salmon Frittata, garnering rave reviews all around. The SW Casserole was tasty and employed well thought out flavors, but fell a bit flat for me in the spice arena. I would have loved a bit more kick here, even if it were in the form of bottled sauce. But there was no hot sauce (or ketchup, for that matter) to be found. The crepe was subtle and delicious. Most of us ordered the roasted potatoes side. They were lightly seasoned and pan-fried to crispy perfection. We each had 8 small potato pieces, which made us conclude that they must count them upon plating. They looked very lonely on the plate with so few. When they brought the coffee cups I almost told the waiter that we hadn't ordered espresso. Their cups are so tiny only 5 minutes went by before another refill was needed. They certainly weren't the worst I've seen at refills, but considering the size of the cups, they should be a lot more on top of the refill sitch. There were several 15 minute periods where all of our coffee cups were empty. Which, for a coffanatic like myself, is a big no-no; particularly as we made a point of mentioning up front that the cups were so small it was obvious that frequent refills would be a necessity. The service was very friendly and relaxed, despite what appeared to be an eventual full house. But delivery of the food was very slow. We waited 30 minutes after ordering before they began to bring it out. It's good we had beautiful surroundings to take our minds off the delay. There was never much recognition from our server that two of us never received the orange juice ordered, which was only ordered because they didn't deliver the hot chocolate they eventually discovered they were out of. We were happy to note that at least the bill didn't reflect a charge for either. We had a very relaxing morning at Em's, with great food and lovely atmosphere. We were busy chatting, and must have spent an additional 30 minutes at our table after the bill was paid and plates were cleared. But we never felt rushed or abandoned at any point. Prices were very reasonable with most brunch entrees coming in under $10. Our total bill was surprisingly affordable. The few relatively minor hiccups we encountered brought our experience from a 5-star to a 4-star, but it was still a worthy meal, with no major complaints. We look forward to eventually revisiting Em's to try out the dinner menu.
(4)
Camille C.
Tucked away gem on Capitol Hill. We've been here many times--it's one of our local favorites. Our service has always been friendly and prompt. The specials are always good, and a new appetizer choice is a cheese stuffed portabello mushroom that was large enough to share. Yum. The fish dish is usually to die for and the halibut was no exception. I opted for the house mashed potatoes instead of jasmine rice. If you can get the potatoes with your dish I highly recommend them. The butter.... Sometimes they are surprisingly busy here so I recommend resies just so you get a table.
(4)
Linda T.
Waitstaff had no idea what they were doing! Bad training. Not attentive and very poor etiquette. The meal was just okay. I expect more out of Em's and have gotten it in the past. I hope someone picks up the ball because I love this little neighborhood restaurant.
(2)
M. F.
Read the reviews from others first, and found a mixed bag. Noticed that there are not too many 2014 reviews, which means that word has finally got out that EM's is not amazing. We have been there three times, each time I wondered why we had given Em's another chance? Food is tasteless, no matter how fancy the menu is, if the food is tasteless it's not worth a dime.
(2)
Kelly G.
I've thrown a few dinner parties in the private room, and its always fantastic. Em's is a little further from downtown, which is great as you don't run into the same crowds. The service is always fantastic, and the menu is inventive and fresh. Make a reservation, and go immediately. Excellent!
(5)
Lexi S.
About 2 weeks ago, I decided to give Em's a try for a nice, quiet dinner. What a fantastic decision. This particular evening caused Em's to take a leap into my top 5 dinner spots in Salt Lake. I should have reviewed sooner, but I have been remiss. Our evening was perfect, from the dim lighting and ambiance, to the service and most importantly, the food. The bread and butter, perfect! This says a lot about a restaurant and Em's started us out on the right foot.We ordered the lentil soup, dates, and scallop appetizer. Everything came out beatuifully. We mentioned to our server that we were in no rush and wanted to take our time. His pacing was right on. The scallop appetizer was the winner for our starters but the others were still lovely puntuation marks. For entrees, we had filet and the marinated pork. Simplistic dishes in that you have a protein, potatoe and veggie on each plate, but elevated in many ways. The saucing on each plate was unique and complimented the particular protein in a way that made our palates intrigued with each bite. The potatoes were creamy and delicious and the asparagas and carrot sides were executed really well. Not an afterthought here. Everything combined on our plates in harmony. I am ready to head back for the next culinary symphony.
(5)
Quin H.
Foot was fine, but they are drunk on their own amazingness. The staff don't know how to keep thing organized, the much touted cinnamon roll was cold and the service was extremely slow. There are far better places to over-pay for Sunday breakfast.
(2)
Alison G.
One of the best meals we've ever had in a restaurant. Love the seasonal menu. LOVED the bread pudding. Loved the scallops and salmon and butternut soup and gnocchi. everything was amazing. Very relaxing and romantic atmosphere. Nice and quiet. Wonderful music. Excellent service.
(5)
AM F.
Out-of-town visit for skiing, and we found a great spot, as always with Yelp! Delicious, wholesome, handmade and relaxing. A true gem in a wonderful state.
(5)
Janean P.
I've had some good meals at Em's and when I realized they had a patio and served Sunday brunch, it didn't take long for me to invite some friends and go try it out. This time, however, things didn't go as smoothly as they have in the past. I decided to live tweet my experience. 12:05: We arrived just 5 minutes after our reserved time. 12:10 Some creative umbrella placement allowed my group not to be broiled alive on the sunny patio. 12:20 Waitress apologized for being 'frazzled' and took our order. I was disappointed to learn that they were out of crepes. 12:57 Decided to take a photo and tweeted "Em's patio is not as shady as I'd like." Someone at the table finally grabbed a waiter and asked if they could get a 2nd round of mimosas only to be told that the restaurant had run out of champagne. We all drank water. 1:21 Tweeted: "You know you've been waiting too long when someone decides to put ice on the centerpieces." The little plants in their pots were completely dry and one looked like it was dying. We might not have noticed if we'd had food in front of us. 1:24 Tweeted: "You know you've been waiting too long when you have to move the umbrella with the sun." AND it was getting really hot. 1:25 Tweeted: "You know you've been waiting too long when everyone pulls out their phone to play Words." As food continued not to arrive, phones came out in the place of plates. There's no such thing as boredom in the 21st century. 1:29: Tweeted: "Finally. $10 worth of smoked salmon benedict which took an hour and a half to come." The table fell silent as all 7 of us wolfed down our food. What took 1 1/2 hours to prepare, took about 5 minutes to consume. A bus boy explained that the kitchen had gotten slammed which delayed our orders but we left wondering why ours were the only orders affected. We'd watched people arrive after us and get their food at reasonable times. We were the last to leave the restaurant that afternoon.
(3)
Kelly S.
Tried Em's this morning for breakfast. For a Sunday morning, it was nice and quiet. Didn't have to wait for a table at all. Service was very friendly and efficient, and the atmosphere was perfect for a blustery Sunday am--casual but nice...if that makes sense., Food was tasty! I had the smoked salmon Benedict and the husband had huevos rancheros. Both were very good. I'm only giving Em's 4 stars because it was our first time there, but we will most certainly be back for both breakfast and dinner.
(4)
Elaine H.
What a perfect little neighborhood bistro. My husband and I loved this little place hidden on the hills of SLC! The crowd looked sophisticated, but not snobby. We felt very under dressed in our jeans and tshirts, but we were welcomed by a gracious host, and seated immediately. As the night wore on, the place got more and more romantic, and the food just got better and better. The short ribs were some of the best that I have ever had. This place is unassuming, cozy, and I cannot wait to stop in for brunch!
(5)
Jowanza J.
For the price you are going to get very well crafted food and an even better experience. The service is great and they are willing to make any accommodations you would like. It's also a great place for the vegetarians and vegans out there.
(5)
Christina B.
What holds this place back is its lack of experienced service. We were told a few minutes wait, but then waited roughly thirty minutes while empty tables sat unused. It was a Sunday at brunch, so we expected a wait, but not with empty tables. After seeing other reviews I wonder if part of the staff didn't show again, leading me to wonder if there will ever be consistent service at this eatery. We were seated at the same time as a group that came considerably later than we did. The server waited the latter table first and they ordered the last of the cinnamon rolls, leaving us canceling our order. Our server was forced to cover the other waitress who was clearly less competent, resulting in slower service. Once the food came, even more disappointment. Huevos rancheros with no sign of salsa. Side of potatoes that amounted to two bites. A special that was not so special : strata that was dominantly bread and very little chicken. Everything was just a little bland and needed seasoning. My whole party thought perhaps we were on a candid camera show. Overall just not impressed.
(2)
Amanda V.
I came to this lovely Capitol Hill restaurant for lunch with friends, and the whole experience was a delight. Em's blends right in to the neighborhood. In fact, I lived a couple blocks away for a year and never knew it existed. The building is a classic brick charmer with big, big windows in the front. It has a nice patio on the side for dining al fresco in nice weather. My party ordered four entrees, including the herb crepe and tamales, and they were all wonderful. The flavors were strong and delicious - no extra salt needed, hooray! The cheese-filled tamales with black beans were seriously to-die-for. Good potion sizes, too. We each ordered an entree and left very satisfied. I will say the service was a little slow. The food came out quickly enough, but the server took a long time to get us checked out (she blamed the lunch rush, but why was there only one server at lunch?). But honestly, Em's is such a pleasant place to be, I delay. While I might not go here when I'm in a rush, for a leisurely meal spent catching up with friends, it's perfect.
(4)
Jessica T.
Went there on a Sunday night when a lot of places in SLC are closed. Neither my dining companion or I were overly impressed. The food was okay, but not of the caliber I expected after reading Yelp. I had the fig appetizer and the halibut entree, and my companion had the corn & poblano soup and the spinach ravioli. None of these were above average. Friendly service and pleasant ambiance, but good (not great) food.
(3)
Ashlee M.
The bread pudding!
(5)
Taige E.
Always great food and atmosphere.
(5)
Alan M.
A pleasant restaurant in a charming location. The food was generally good, but very uneven. While I enjoyed most dishes, a couple were sub par, including one that was so laughably bad that I actually laughed. Overall, I wouldn't mind giving it another try.
(3)
Sam V.
After a not-so-subtle hint, wink, and a nudge to my boyfriend one day saying that I wanted to try Em's, he ended up "surprising" me with going to Em's this past date night. I will admit it, I made an overly excited squeal noise when I found out he made reservations, which, for a Friday night, I would highly recommend you do as well. The place was a little difficult to find, and parking can be a bit difficult if you don't know what you're doing (we ended up parking the street over before we saw they had a lot), but we eventually finally found our way to our destination. I really liked the feel of the space, albeit a little tight and cozy, and tad on the modern side. As far food goes, we ordered the phyllo dough wrapped goat cheese with duck confit, a special of the night, the butternut squash ravioli in a brown butter sage sauce (very popular these days), the free range chicken stuffed with goat cheese and pine nuts over mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, and the pecan bread pudding with caramel sauce and ice cream. Everything was delicious, including the unexpected salads, bread & butter. I thought all of the dishes were executed well, I just wasn't a big fan of the texture of the duck confit appetizer, and the ravioli was good, not great. I would have to say the biggest winner of the night was the bread pudding. Like Joshua S., I think this is one of the best bread puddings I've had in my life. I'm just sad that we opted to share it instead of getting one each.
(4)
Bud H.
Quaint little place. Reminds me of something in San Francisco. Some of the best short ribs around. Very, very tasty. So tasty, in fact, that I have a hard time ordering anything else.
(4)
Michelle T.
I loved this place! I had a wonderful brunch there. Self-service tea and coffee is the best. Fantastic food, really good value and the decor/ambiance is perfect. I would go back many times if I lived in SLC.
(5)
BykeRyde R.
Cute little place, friendly service. Only went for breakfast, I ordered the herbed crepes stuffed w eggs, my friend ordered the huevos rancheros. Food was more than decent, not quite a 5. I certainly appreciate that they have a waiting area with serve-yourself coffee...it's thoughtful and definitely helps the waiting go by faster !
(4)
Rae G.
Tucked away in a charming neighborhood, this local gem is not to be missed. I went on a Sunday morning and showed up right as they were opening, there were no lines and ample parking. The ambiance is charming and our server Chris was attentive and provided speedy service. I had the herbed crepes, they were fantastic with the fried apples (which are much healthier tasting than they sound). The prices were very reasonable and the coffee is self serve so you never have to wait for a warm up. The only caveat is that I didn't think the coffee was that great, but that isn't a deal breaker for me.
(5)
Jeb A.
Consistently my favorite restaurant in SLC. I absolutely love the consistently inspired seasonal menu, the friendly helpful but not overly attentive staff, and the great balance of casual/formal atmosphere which avoids the pitfall of many of SLCs other gourmet eateries - that being a superiority complex of being a fine dining establishment in a small market. Em's delivers delicious fare without haughty hubris. The only reasons I don't give em's five stars are: - the self-service coffee at brunch; the thermoses tend to run out quickly and it takes away from the luxury of full service, - on especially cold nights tables near the front door and windows are at the mercy of chilly drafts. I will always send discerning food lovers to em's.
(4)
Jamie J.
"Em, I thought you would be a Gem. But after my meal, my joy dropped: like a seed from a stem. OH Em, maybe there will be another opportunity for us to meet again." Now that I am done with my poem - I would like to start with recognizing my own bias. I Yelped (duh) Em's before I came and really had my expectations up to the ceiling. Being from Seattle, I'm not up on SLC's food game. So, maybe my expectations were too high or, maybe Yelp lost this battle - that's a first. Everything here is great, except for the food. The menu sounds great, but that's only half the battle. I ordered the goat cheese "stuffed" chicken. It really was a chicken breast with a hole on the top, covered in grainy cheese, and served with a side of overcooked, chewy, asparagus. Also served with mashed potatoes that were just ok. I have to be real here, I was almost offended at how dry my chicken was. I really don't appreciate saw dust like food, call me unique. But, I didn't even eat half of my plate (that's unheard of)! Let's try something else: The duck. Duck is beautiful meat when it cooked right. Redish pink in color, with visible juice and a nice crisp skin. Well, here comes the purple, almost black, duck with it's limp side of asparagus (sound familiar)? Also left on the plate. I think Em is deserving of 3 stars, I might sounds harsh, but my expectations were high, and there was just nothing more than satisfactory about any of the five dishes I tried. Please Note: The decor, ambiance, service, and overall experience here is delightful. It's quaint and intimate. Overall, Em I was a little let down. I'm a sucker for second chances when it comes to food. Maybe one day I can write a happy poem about you.
(3)
Julia R.
Of all the restaurants I thought of taking my 86 year old mother to on the first night of her visit from Dallas, I unfortunately, chose Em's. Good food deserves good service, something Em's Restaurant doesn't seem to understand. We reserved a table at Em's for 7:00 pm on a Wednesday night. After 80 minutes and no entree, we left. Before deciding to leave, we asked to speak to a manager and were told there is no manager. Really? Perhaps that is the problem. Em was there, in the kitchen, but she was 'busy' and sent a message that if we had a complaint about the service, we should talk to our waiter. Em, you need a course on customer service. In addition, shortly after we were seated, a glass was broken by the door to the patio and the broken glass was never swept up as people in open sandals came in and out of the door. Em, how about a course on safety?
(1)
Amanda H.
Oh me oh my. I wanted to like Ems. I really did. But alas, my dining experience was just ok...average at best. So I should have listened to Jamie J's review regarding the asparagus. I was so excited to try their herb chicken salad with asparagus. As Jamie mentioned in her review, the asparagus was so over cooked it was practically inedible. The chicken was nice tender, not dry, but it lacked in flavor. I found myself reaching for the salt shaker several times. I also had to ask for more dressing. It was a little lack luster as well. But the bleu cheese was nice and creamy. The service, while friendly, was extremely slow. We waited for more than hour after we ordered for our food. Oddly enough we saw the chef running out the back door for a few minutes and then came back in with a brown paper bag that had a container of the leafy greens in it...I am sure they were the same greens that ended up on my plate. Where did he keep them? In his trunk?? Weird. The waitress did offer the table a complimentary dessert to make up for the long wait. She brought out a bread pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Both were delish. Not sure if I'd go back again or not. We'll see... PS They don't split checks, so be prepared with cash if you're paying separately.
(3)
Christopher W.
Em's is a SLC gem hidden just west of the Capitol. This place is a hip dining hot spot that I fell in love with upon my first visit. It is very popular so call ahead and make a reservation. If you are looking for a relaxed fine dining experience, this is the place for you! The food will blow your mind. I appreciate that everything is fresh and local. Even the ice cream is made in house! They have a standard menu which is available year round along with a seasonal menu that changes frequently. The servings are small but the flavors are HUGE! During the summer months make sure to sit on the patio, it is amazing. This is my favorite place to dine in Utah. Em's has become my go to spot to take out of town visitors. When my parents visit from Phoenix we head straight to Em's from the airport because they love this place as much as I do. Things I love to eat here:* Beet Salad Goat Cheese Salad Halibut (It was a summer special) Artichoke Appetizer (also a special, but I dream of this tasty delight) Potato Lasagna Homemade Habanero Ice cream (will burn your mouth and blow your mind) *I have never hated anything I have eaten here.
(5)
Robert R.
Went last night for a rehearsal dinner. The location and decoration are good. The potato lasagna was dry. The creme brulee was also dry.
(2)
becky r.
love it love it love it!! Not pretentious, well priced, tasteful menu, and friendly service. Oh and great location in the Marmalade district of downtown Salt Lake City near the Capital. Plus they have a covered patio. Everything I've tried there I've enjoyed from the house salad with fresh parmesan, to the asparagus soup, and turkey sandwich. Don't forget dessert also. This place is a must try for sure!
(5)
Anne W.
Feeling a little Spring in my step (I'm must be delusional from the missing hour of sleep), I went to Em's on a whim for brunch. The space is nice and bright. It's small, but not crowded. There is enough room between tables that you aren't bumping your chair back into anybody and throwing off their dining grove. There are also fresh flowers on the table, which I thought was a nice touch. Really, my favorite part was how nice and sunny and open the place felt. The waitress was nice, but quiet. I think she tried to be as invisible as possible, which I would appreciate if I had a dining companion with me, but I didn't. She was invisible to the point that I didn't get my drink refiled (BAD) and I did have to wait awhile for my food. I didn't mind waiting for my food. I'm Italian and used to waiting for my meals, especially if it means they will be tasty. But, I don't like cold drinks when they aren't supposed to be cold. Refresh my beverage, please. I ordered the Herbed Crepe. Very good and worth the wait. It was stuffed full of eggs, Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, ham and red peppers. The eggs were cooked through (I hate slimy eggs!) and the flavors were nicely balanced. The crepe was just the right amount of crispy, not soggy like a nasty Village Inn crepe. Everything tasted fresh. Overall, a great little place. Great atmosphere and great food. I will definitely try it again to see if I just hit the waitress on a bad day.
(3)
Brooke C.
Had a phenomenal lunch here with my mom the other day. We shared the scrumptious potato pancakes and each had a delicious herbed crepe, accompanied by a crisp Pinot Grigio. I plan to return whenever I'm in Salt Lake.
(5)
Shauna M.
Great location. Very quaint. De Service was terrific. Food selection was amazing. Presentation divine. Taste was over the top delicious!!
(5)
Catherine A.
It seems I have had the opposite experience of some users. I had excellent service and only mediocre food. I had a turkey sandwich on sourdough bread. It was pretty bland. Kinda wish I had tried something else.
(3)
Jana A.
Been eating here for years and it's my favorite restaurant in all of Salt Lake. We had our wedding rehearsal dinner here and have celebrated nearly every special occasion from birthdays to promotions to anniversaries here. We love the wait staff and have tried nearly everything on the menu. I certainly have my favorites and some items I think should be changed, but overall we love it. It's right in our neighborhood and Emily the owner lives nearby. It's so nice to support a delicious establishment right in our neighborhood.
(5)
Kiesha J.
Hip lil spot near the Capitol. I tried Em's with a group of friends last summer and fell in love with it. It's a little restaurant, but what it lacks in space it makes up for in charm. Awesome art work, fresh flowers on every table, great music and even better food. We started with a stuffed artichoke as an appetizer. I have been back a handful of times and haven't seen this on the menu since that first time. I keep coming back in hopes of seeing it again. It was that good. It was stuffed with a mayo based sauce and bacon. Umm how can you beat bacon/mayo/artichoke? My entree was rack of lamb served with potatoes, shallot custard & jalapeno jelly. It was amazing. Melt in your mouth amazing. We finished with a hot brownie topped with habanero chocolate icecream. To die for. I've since been back a handful of times and have yet to have a bad or even ok meal. Love this place. In fact I even moved 3 houses down from Em's in hopes of seeing that stuffed artichoke on the menu again. I kid, but having Em's next door has changed my life.
(5)
Jason C.
Em's is one of my favorite restaurants in Salt Lake City. Every time I go there, I am blown away with the quality of the food and the taste. For a few weeks out of the year, Em serves a sweet corn that is impeccable. I only wish it was available all the time. The meat dishes, fish dishes, and vegetables are all delicious and their wine selection was impressive. Delicious!!
(5)
John N.
Painfully slow describe EM's in a nutshell. Nutshell describes portion sizes. First, parking is on the street, and if the restaurant is busy, you'll get a little walking exercise. After arriving we were seated quickly, but after 20 minutes the waiter finally acknowledged us and asked if we were ready to order. Really, ready to order? After ordering it took another 20 minutes to get our house salads and prison ration piece of bread. The house salad consists of a few pieces of salad, which makes Costco samples seem like a feast. 30 minutes later came our entries, which were good--good and small. We left hungry and thirsty, since after being served the waiter did not come back once. I resorted to drinking my wife's water since I ran out and never had a refill. 20 more minutes to get a bill--couldn't wait to get out. Overall, a real European dining experience--slow, unfriendly service and portion sizes meant for a French poodle. I went straight home and fixed myself some dinner. This place has shamefully poor service, prison ration servings and a dry well. Avoid!
(1)
Christine N.
Truly as good as it gets. My husband and I have been several times and have been newly impressed each time. Food is fresh and creative, always beautiful. Menu is eclectic, my favorite are the starters, we order one of each. Vegetarian lasagna on the dinner menu was our favorite in the fall. Not sure if it's always on the menu as Em's uses local produce. Price is very reasonable, lunch menu even more so. Can't say enough about Em's!
I love this place. the food is special, the environment is lovely. I can't get enough of it. I regularly go in for dinner (haven't tried brunch). Hands down the best meal i've had in salt lake in the last year. I always enjoy the food. I'm reading the reviews here and there are gripes about salt and what not. I really have to disagree - the food seemed to be always seasoned to perfection when I've eaten there (6-8 times so far). I do know that they keep fresh ingredients. It's not a big chain so they do occasionally run out of items - but with an extensive menu for the size of the restaurant & kitchen, you're bound to find something else you will love. I've worked in about 12 restaurants myself (NY, LA, SLC) and believe that this is truly a great spot. Be sure to make your reservation ahead of time. It's not always easy getting in! They are obviously doing something right! #1 Favorite restaurant in SLC
(5)
Jenni S.
We arrived between noon and 1pm on Sunday for brunch and there was no wait. Sweet! They do have bloody marys and mimosas. The coffee was self serve, which was an interesting concept. No waiting for the server to fill your cup, just head up to the bar whenever. We had a sticky bun and the roll of the day (maple bacon) and they were pretty good. Slathered in very sweet glaze. I enjoyed my frittata, paired with the fried apples. Husband ordered the special which was a strata (bread pudding) with chicken and swiss cheese and he paired his with the potatoes. We were both satisfied. The bill was slightly spendy, about $40 for the two of us, only one alcoholic beverage, but we did splurge on the sweet rolls. Our server was "cute as a button" and did a great job. Loved the neighborhood which we aren't really familiar with. It was fun to check it out.
(4)
Aaron J.
After a friend turned us on to this out-of-the-way restaurant we were excited to try what we heard so much about. We like to support the local small businesses so we really wanted to like Em's. We ate lunch and the food was so-so and the service left much to be desired. The place wasn't busy, so after a slow-motion server and a kitchen that shared this same characteristic we had too much time to think about how the food was, well, just okay. I think it deserves another shot. Maybe dinner next time.
(2)
Leah B.
The holidays took us back to Salt Lake City and for New Years Eve we made reservations at Em's. We had previously eaten at Em's before moving to Denver, but not in several years. The prices looked good, and we had really enjoyed the atmosphere in the past. Again, the atmosphere was wonderful and warm. The restaurant is small enough that each room feels intimate, but with enough ambient sound to make it friendly. But the atmosphere was really the only impressive part of the meal. There was no bartender so our waiter needed to mix drinks and he did not know how to make several beverages ordered by people in our party. We also brought several bottles of wine and the corkage fee was $15/bottle--pretty expensive for Salt Lake City. On to the menu. There were two separate menus. FULL menus. The regular menu and the specials menu were quite extensive. In a restaurant as small as Em's a menu that extensive is troublesome because you know that the dishes were not as carefully thought out. The chef went for quantity over quality. For example, every dish had the same side--an unimpressive brown-butter sautee of green beans and carrots. I ordered a lamb chop dish with a mint jelly. While the meat was tastily prepared the mint jelly was clearly spooned from a jar and haphazardly slapped on the plate. The dish had no harmony. Taylor ordered a beef filet with mashed potatoes. The cut was not very good and was, overall, forgettable. However, we each had a frisee salad which was tasty. I hate to pan a restaurant like Em's because it is in a great neighborhood and the atmosphere is delightful. Furthermore, it is a small independently owned fine dining restaurant in a city full of cheap family restaurants and chains. However, the chef would do well to focus on several small dishes
(3)
Keith R.
This casual yet classy neighborhood place is a delightful find just 5 minutes drive from the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square. This is far and away one of the best restaurants in Salt Lake City and food is right up there with the best neighborhood places in the Bay Area. There were at least 3 appetizers competing directly for my attention and the entrees did not disappoint either - especially the meat dishes. Dessert was also truly stellar - I loved the chocolate ice cream flavored with Habanero pepper. It was the first time I had spicy ice cream and I'm already trying to figure out how I can get back to Utah for a second helping. The staff was friendly and helpful without being over-solicitous. The building is historical and charming much like the surrounding area. I highly recommend Em's and look forward to my next visit.
(4)
Nick J.
From simple side-dishes to some of the more creative brunch dishes, this easily became one of my favorite Sunday brunch spots. The herbed crepe was packed full and delicious. Homemade sticky buns that are not too-sticky, but perfectly sweet and enormous. Very comfortable patio.
(4)
Andrew P.
I have eaten sunday brunch at Em's twice now and my conclusion is that they are inconsistent. Today we were told that they had ran out of two of the menu items. Furthermore, when our meals did arrive they were not what we ordered. The first time that we went to Em's it was a good experience. However, my feeling today is that I don't want to go back to Em's ever again because I can't be sure what kind of experience I will have there. I really want to like Em's because it is in my neighborhood, but I don't think that I can.
(2)
Picabo L.
This place may serve a great Sunday brunch, but we wouldn't know since we arrived mid morning were told that they stopped serving food despite being open until 1:00pm. There was no shortage of open tables and the waitstaff was downright unapologetic and rude.
(1)
Todd S.
The roasted zucchini was great. Cool and chill place. Great value for the money for lunch.
(4)
Cori L.
The food was delicious (think soups, salads and sandwiches) & the atmosphere was quaint & cozy! I'll be back :) Check their hours before you head over though, they have a slightly strange schedule.
(5)
Bryton B.
Went to Em's for the first time today for brunch. I didn't really plan on it so I waited until about 10 minutes before 1 o'clock, not knowing that, that was is when they stop serving. My server was very nice and still sat me, gladly offering me to start with some coffee. I ended up choosing the Salmon eggs Bennidict and a Mimosa. The chef also came out and asked how my meal was. It was all quite delicous, and with the excellent service I received I will absolutely be returning to Em's for lunch and/or dinner! Thanks to my friend Tim for the reccomendation....and Ooooooh look, Fancy is a fan too! ;-)
(4)
Adam D.
As someone who used to take out-of-town guests to Em's as an example of good, regional cuisine in a comfortable, unpretentious setting, I have to say that the last few times (fall 2008) have seen a drop off in quality to the point that I'll take folks somewhere else. The offerings (which seems to have been the exact same for the past three years) are fairly flavorful--particularly the maple barbecue pork chop--but the meat can be a little tough. If you have room for dessert, go for the chocolate habanero ice cream, which was unavailable the last time we were there :-( That said, the outdoor patio is great for summer eating, the location near the Capitol gives a great view, and it has an overall nice atmosphere with attentive wait staff, so if you don't mind average food, you will enjoy yourself.
(3)
Raquelito M.
I was definitely skeptical about this place, given the limited lunch menu. I as prepare to be sorely disappointed, and only found myself raving how delicious the food was after the first bite! I had my toddler in tow, and the restaurant was extremely accomodating (tot wanted mashed potatoes, which Em's uses in their potato pancakes & lox; I asked for a side of potatoes, not fried, and they brought me a bowl). I will definitely make another trip there.
(5)
Peter F.
Unbelievable find in the Marmalade. Upscale bistro with balanced and appealing menu. Table linens and terrific service. But wear your jeans and boots. It doesn't get better than this.
(5)
Davin K.
Driving by, never knowing what days they were open, seeing the cars that lined the streets of the Bev Hills side of town, always was curious and finally one Sunday morning it was a nice walk around the hill, and coffee was needed. At least that and maybe a danish shouldn't be too expensive. But we were surprised, delectable sounding breakfasts for under ten bucks. The pancakes were huge an fluffy.. the Huevos Rancheros was divine, I'd be proud to make it like that at home. The coffee kept flowing and the server was quick, even with a full patio to deal with. This is on the list of regulars now, I think.
(4)
Richard S.
Em's gets coveted 5 stars because its hip. Its small, on capitol hill, Roy Lichtenstein prints and other great art work is posted, the food is local, the menu is creative......no more needs to be said.
(5)
Robin F.
Love Em's. Especially Sunday brunch on the patio.
(5)
Tom N.
Neighborhood gem - nothing has blown me away but I would be stoked to have this place in my neighborhood.
(3)
David S.
A nice spare little dining room and a lovely outdoor seating area when the weather is neither too hot nor too cold. The menu is heavy on salads and imaginative sandwiches at lunchtime. I don't go for dinner- i found it pricey and got too little to eat.
(4)
Bette K.
Unless you have an inside scoop, you would never know about this place. Luckily, we did. Em's sits on a residential street surrounded by houses. The atmosphere is cool, clean, and hip without trying too hard. All of us enjoyed our food and the service was friendly but in a laid back way. If I were to ever own a restaurant, I'd want it to be like Em's. If you get through your meal and can handle dessert, then go for either the homemade brownie or the chocolate habanero ice cream (also made in house). OMG. The only negative was that the wine list was kind of lame unless you were willing to shell out huge bucks for a bottle. Simple solution - bring your own and cough up the corkage. If we ever find ourselves back in SLC, we will definitely return to Em's. If you live here or spend a lot of time here, then we encourage you to check it our for yourself!
(4)
Dave R.
This is a small, out of the way gem. Food is always good, they have a great patio in the summer, and service is always friendly. This restaurant is in the top picks for me for Salt Lake City
(4)
Kyle M.
I ordered the veal ravioli and didn't love it. It was a bit pricey for what I got.
(3)
Max S.
Sunday brunch here is excellent. The dining area is a bit cramped, particularly in the winter months with no outdoor seating, but brunch is still sufficiently on the DL that you can easily find parking on the street nearby.
(4)
Benjamin O.
Em's provides a pleasant and relatively casual setting in a residential neighborhood. A spacious patio is cooled by a breeze and was a good choice for a warm summer evening. 4 stars for the setting. Service was attentive but not intrusive, professional and friendly. 4 stars for the service. The food was uneven. Flatbread appetizer was little more than toasted pita with some melted cheese on it. The local lamb was bland, excessively fatty, and tough in places...barely a few nibbles of edible meat on each of the three small pieces. Pork tenderloin with dried fruit was better, with the brined meat tender and juicy. Deserts were decent...good sorbets, a tasty bread pudding.... 3 stars for the food. I go to restaurants primarily for the food, and I rate Em's 3 stars on this basis. If you're not that picky and just want some standard restaurant fare in a nice setting, call it 4 stars.
(3)
Sorry, we don't have Q&A for this restaurant.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
Address :271 N Center St
Salt Lake City, UT, 84103
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Brunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : No Attire : Casual Ambience : Classy Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Tom W.
Excellent food, awesome service, dog friendly patio, parking behind the Restrauant, what more can you ask for? The halibut was out of this world! Short ribs were to die for! Beef was wonderful. Good wine list. I'm totally hooked!
(5)Josh S.
Dear reader: please don't interpret my rating here as an indication that this restaurant serves good/average/redeemable in any way food. Let me be clear: the food here sucks. There is one redeeming factor, however: the people are awesome. The servers knew exactly when to step in and ask what we needed and when to back off and leave us alone. One recommendation: only order the Salmon Roulade when/if you are prepared to admit that rubber is your favorite base ingredient. Or if you don't mind spending about 18 hours sitting on the porcelain throne trying to pass a glue-ey Boulder.
(2)Chris P.
We discovered this place this morning after reading a review about it. Located in the 'Marmalade' district of Salt Lake City the architecture varies from Russian influenced to gothic revival to victorian mansions. We showed up right at opening time. They have self serve coffee which is a great thing. The wait staff was professional, courteous and friendly. I had the Salmon Eggs Benedict and Shannan had the Fritada. Both were absolutely excellent. We were going to try one of the sticky buns, but we forgot to order one...so next time. It appears that they take reservations - so since it is a small place it might be wise to do so. We looked at the dinner menu and it seemed very interesting. Can't speak on that...yet.
(5)Lisa B.
Em's is a delightful spot, with a lovely setting and a menu that steers toward light, inventive cuisine. The brunch is especially delicious and the garden bower is a beautiful place to be outdoors yet completely shaded in summer. I'm afraid, though, that I have to knock a star off for the unpredictable hours. We sometimes walk there from the Avenues -- and after more than one experience of its being closed when the website said it would be open, or being told that seating for brunch was over at 12:45, we learned to call and check before going.
(4)Rebecca W.
I try to only review restaurants that I had a good experience at. But I had such a negative experience at Em's Restaurant this past weekend, I had to share. Lots of hype, but completely overpriced. I'm fine spending good money for a good meal. But this was anything but. We had a reservation for 9 people at 7 pm. We got there right at 7 pm, but the rest of our group didn't stroll in until 7:15. I don't believe it was an issue, because the dining room was practically empty, only one other table of people. Our waitress seemed nice, but the service was incredibly slow. She finally took our order around 7:30. But we didn't receive our salads until 7:50. The house salad was rather weak, as in literally the lettuce was completely weak and limp. I could barely get any leaves onto my fork. There were no vegetables or toppings, just a weak spring mix tossed in a vinaigrette. Some of our party ordered the beet salad and they seemed to like it. But they had to pay $5 extra to add the beet salad to their entree. We didn't get our entrees until 8:45. That's a very long time to wait between courses. I tried to be excited and forget about how hungry I was and just enjoy my meal. But there was so little of it, that it was difficult. I ordered the goat cheese and pine nuts stuffed chicken ($20) served with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The chicken had hardly any flavor. Every bite needed to have at least some of the stuffing to be slightly enjoyed. The rest of the breast was dry and flavorless. The mashed potatoes were good, but the seasonal vegetables was literally 2 green beans, and two thin carrot shavings. Definitely left more t be desired. My husband order the New York strip steak with blue cheese and caramelized onions ($25). It came with seasonal vegetables and "roasted potatoes." The potatoes definitely weren't roasted. They were boiled. They had no seasonings or oil or any additional flavor on top. He had to scrape off the toppings from the steak to eat with the potatoes. The potatoes were scorching hot, but the rest of the food was lukewarm. Onto the steak. My husband had asked for the steak to be cooked medium. He took the first few bites into the steak and enjoyed it. but when he got slightly to the center, it was much more pink. Not a problem, he had ordered medium. He cut one more level into it, and was completely raw through the entire center. At this point, we had already been at the restaurant for 2 hours and he had eaten most of the other food on his plate. We could have sent it back, but we didn't want to wait any longer, we just wanted to leave as soon as possible. It was a real disappointment. We had high hopes for this place and had heard such good things. But no part of the experience was enjoyable. The seats were uncomfortable. The bathroom was not up to par, everything took 3x longer than we were expecting, parking was terrible, and we left very frustrated about our experience because of all the time and money we lost. Next time, I'm convincing the group to go to Cafe Rio.
(2)Sergei N.
This restaurant is in a residential area close to Temple Square. We stopped by here briefly to catch a quick lunch and left not super impressed. My sandwich on sourdough bread was super plain. It was good but not really what i expect at a restaurant for ten bucks. The herb crepe with cheese was the exact opposite - it was the richest most cheese (soft) filled item i've ever eaten. It was difficult to eat because the flavor was so ... cheesy. The texture was way too gooey. There were also a ton of people doing somekind of a meeting there on a wednesday morning at 11. I'm assuming it wasnt an early lunch.. Overall I'd skip the place.
(3)Dan R.
Wow were we impressed. My group of six pulled up in two taxis and we asked our driver if he had the right address because it sure did't look like he had after he stopped in a residential neighborhood. But there it was across the street, Em's is small, but we had called for a reservation and had a great table. Drink orders were filled quickly and we ordered some appetizers - Smoked Salmon & Crab Rolls with Avocado, Sesame Seed Vinaigrette & Cilantro Oil for $12.00, Tamales stuffed with Goat's Cheese served on a bed of Chipotle Con Crema for $9.00, and a nice charcuterie plate pff the special menus. For my entree I had the Red Wine Braised Short Ribs with Seasonal Vegetables & Mashed Potatoes for $24.00. It was served with a salad. I really liked my entree. The meat was tender and delicious. Everything on the plate was excellent. My share of the bill (appys, wine, entree and tip) was $60 and I thought it was a very good value for the quality of the food
(4)Jeffrey S.
Quaint. Quiet. Unassuming. Neighborhood spot. I've heard all of these things used in reference to Em's, and it was high time I check the place out. It's all of those things. It's the perfect picture of a Capitol Hill neighborhood eatery done right. It has an interesting building, a simple menu, a host of regulars, but it's upscale enough that you feel like you're having a night out. Picture an old brick building, meant to look old, but also contemporary and new. The art on the walls is modern, and the tables are neatly set and the servers and host alarmingly proficient. No teenage girls texting in between seating guests. No riff raff. That's what you've got. Surely you can put up with the mildly inconvenient street parking for that tradeoff? Now let's get to the food. Em's may have occasional specials, but they stick to the same menu pretty faithfully. If you're a regular, rejoice in the specials. if not, you'll be fine with one of the tried and true standbys. They're really honed these things in. Amongst the standouts (both from my belly and from those that others always seem to rave about and I got to try) are the rack of lamb and the pork chop. Lamb is so hard to do, and they give it a delicate treatment and offer some jalapeño jelly to balance out the meat flavor. And the pork chop with its maple and bacon flavors. Not, like, "Oh, look at me! I'm bacon and I'm a gimmick." But genuinely used as a flavor. I also was blown away by the sweet potato puree. I know that's supposed to be a side that they throw on, but honey, oh honey, that was sweet magic. Others rave about the phyllo goat cheese app--but I'd skip it. Go for the patee. But hold on tight for flavors in your mouth, what with the mustard and olives served alongside. It's potent. I was bracing myself for pure magic with the bread pudding. Maybe it was an off night or expectations were too high, but it didn't knock my socks off. Should you order it? Oh yes, definitely. But don't expect that it will redefine the dessert for you. What a pleasant time. Sad I had a dinner scheduled here a few years ago that got cancelled. I would have loved to have tried it sooner. They're just so quiet (chefs never compete or participate in any other restaurant thingy-events that happen all the time in SLC), but once you discover it, you'll want to join them for dinner more often.
(5)Joshua S.
Visit on 03/29/2014 -Country Pate (chicken) with mustard, olives and toast points. Mmm, chickeny! The combination of pate and mustard is a treat, for sure. The flavor of the chicken intensifies over time. -Potato Lasagna - Yukon Gold potatoes layered with Parmesan, Ricotta, Whole Milk Mozzarella & Seasonal Vegetables. The pleasant surprise of the evening. Very flavorful, herbaceous, and silky smooth. -Rack of Lamb with Potato, Shallot Custard & Jalapeño Jelly. Definitely a safe pick, every time. The lamb is not gamey at all, and the accompaniments are just that, accompaniments that enhance the main event. -Marinated Pork Chop in a Maple, Mustard & Bacon Barbeque Sauce with Mashed Potatoes & Seasonal Vegetables. Also a safe pick every time. So tender, juicy and flavorful. -Pan Roasted Duck Breast with Spiced Plum Sauce and Sweet Potato Puree. Sweet potato puree to die for! The duck fat was not rendered enough (not crispy), but the duck itself was delicious. -Pork Tenderloin with Yukon Gold potatoes. What can I say? It was tender, not dry and nicely executed. -Creme Brûlée. Silky cream. Not that cold hard pasty 'stuff' they serve at other restaurants. Delicious, and just the right size for a single dessert serving. -Caramel and Toffee-Almond Ice Creams. OMG. Just order it. The Pecan Bread Pudding was more dense and chewy than it's been in the past. It lacked 'breadiness', and pecans in general. Disappointing.
(4)Jodie B.
We had dinner at Em's last night. The service was abominable, the food worse and the help uncaring. It will be the last time there. I wondered if it has changed ownership
(1)Karsten B.
I went here for lunch and from what I've heard, their dinner menu is better. My sandwich was fine, nothing to complain about, but nothing special. The chocolate habanero ice cream, however, was amazing and worth four stars alone. I do like the business model and will probably return for dinner at some point.
(4)Fae L.
Hidden little gem in the downtown neighborhood of Marmalade. Quaint little cafe with charm. The food portions are perfect. We (husband & I) didn't walk away feeling sickly full or with a gut ache. The food is fresh and perfect. Service is good as well.
(5)Ann A.
We ate there tonight. Our food total did not exceed $100 for our party of four, but our bill came to over $170. We decided this must be to an outrageous corkage fee. (one that was not listed on the menu, and that we should have asked about as we brought our own wine.) The service was terrible, to say the least. We had to call for our waitress for anything - removal of plates, refills on drinks, reminders of food, etc. Having said that, the food itself was succulent. The disappointment to us is that we probably won't be back due to the awful service, hidden pricing, and the long, long wait for the outstanding entrees. Sad.
(2)Anita C.
A fellow yelper suggested this place for brunch, and I am so glad he did. Cute little place, loved all the art. It is pretty small so it does get crowded quickly. I ordered the Smoked Salmon Benedict and it was delicious. Everything was balanced really well, and the portion size was great. The eggs were cooked perfectly, the potato pancakes were just crispy enough, and I loved the dill creme fraiche. My friend ordered the herbed crepe which was equally delicious. Want to go back and check out their dinner menu.
(4)Walter C.
Right off the bat, Amelia is a sweetheart. Always with a smile and quick with the service. A unique talent considering she is the only one working the tables. More than just a big tip, she deserves all the accolades and praise that can be given to her. The food is good, the Italian Sausage Sandwich is a winner. Desserts are the real winner here. Pecan Bread Pudding is a plus and needs to be tried. Over all this a nice place for a peaceful lunch.
(4)Charline D.
We walked through the snowstorm to have a brunch in Em's. The place is small, cosy and not noisy. Of course on Sunday everybody wants to go there so we had to wait 30 minutes but they have a little coffee house across the corridor. The food is good and not expensive at all. I will definitively come back if I' in Salt Lake City.
(5)Lloyd A.
Very nice small restaurant in a residential neighborhood with inside and patio dining. Very eclectic menu with a great variety of dishes for every taste. Friendly and attentive staff. Great desserts and expresso provided for a super finish. Absolutely a must when in Salt Lake City
(5)Jacob B.
This place was very good! The people were friendly, the patio was very enjoyable. They didn't rush us at all, they let me and my girlfriend sit back and relax. Which is what you want on a Sunday brunch! huevos rancheros was amazing!!!!!
(5)Julianne H.
I got the Dried Fruit Stuffed Pork Tenderloin with roasted potatoes in a bacon sherry vinaigrette. It was good but nothing special. I loved the restaurant atmosphere, the staff is very friendly, and I would recommend bringing people here. Even though I didn't love my entree, I was impressed by this place!
(4)Peggy C.
The service was great and the food tasty. The place sits atop a steep hill and gives you the feel of being in San Francisco The warm potatoe salad with mixed green was a delicious, it had a wonderfully light vinaigrette. Dessert, the bread pudding with bourbon pecan ice cream was absolutely amazing. It was a nice end to a lovely lunch.
(4)Kacey K.
Went to Em's on May 28th for a graduation dinner with my family. While the food was delicious the service was terrible. From the moment we walked in the door our server treated us with contempt. We ended up having to share water glasses because they weren't refilled or we simply didn't have enough glasses. Our server never followed up and checked if we needed anything after our food was delivered. When bringing back the receipts after paying she just threw them on the table and walked away without speaking a word. And that's just a few of the things that occurred last night. I don't see any reason why our group deserved to be treated this way, but it put a damper on an evening of celebration.
(3)Cameron C.
An absolute gem. Tucked away in a residential neighborhood up by the Capitol, I'm very glad it was recommended to me because I don't think I would have ever found it on my own. This definitely will be added to my SLC dining rotation. Garden patio was very quaint, perfect for a summer evening meal. Service was very friendly and unobtrusive. Started with the tuna on cucumber and the tomato/mozzarella/prosciutto appetizers, both light and fresh and very tasty. Was surprised by a course of complimentary salads for our table. Then went on to the main course of pinenut and goat cheese stuffed chicken w/ veggies and mashed potatoes, which (although I hardly ever order chicken when dining out) was a great call. Also tasted the halibut, which was very nice. There were so many other things on the menu that looked exceptional, I'm definitely going to need to come back soon to further round out my perception of this place -- but great first time around.
(5)Nate S.
Em's could easily be the winner of a "Design Your Neighborhood Restaurant" contest. And, since I just moved into the neighborhood, I am also a winner. Lovely place for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
(5)Mike G.
We had been looking for a nice, quaint restaurant with quality food to remind us of something you would find in our home town of Chi-town. Sorry, my "better half" made me say that. Anyway, yelp helped us stumble upon this little gem and we checked it out last Thursday night. The place was not packed but I chalk that up to it being Halloween night. The ambiance was fantastic, low lighting, not loud, soft music in the background and a quiet staff. We started with two appetizers. One being a flat bread that was pretty good and the other being scallops. The scallops were very good as well. Our dinners were actually fantastic but we felt they were a little over priced. My wife ordered butternut squash ravioli with a browned butter sage sauce. I think hers was a little over priced for the quantity. I ordered the pork chops with mashed potatoes. All in all, the food was above average. We ended with a vanilla bean cake with raspberry sauce. The cake was a tad dry to be honest but had good flavor. I ordered the bourbon pecan ice cream. It was absolutely amazing. With that we ordered tea and coffee. All in all, we left pleased. The service was very good, food very good, pricing was decent and entire experience above average. One of the better restaurants we have eaten at in Utah.
(4)Shane K.
We LOVE Em's... We just moved to the downtown area and have been meaning to try Em's for months. Finally tried it and it will be our new regular spot! The location is super cool - kind of hidden away by the capital building. Love the simple feel and design of the restaurant and the food is off the hook.
(5)Pooja P.
My friend has talked about Em's several times and I was excited to try out her favorite brunch place in SLC. We arrived to a mostly empty restaurant and were told that the tables were unavailable due to reservations and other people waiting. About 20 minutes later we were the first ones to be seated- it seemed that it was easier for the waitress to deal with her current customers rather than add new ones. My friend ordered the corned beef hash with a tea and I ordered the huevos rancheros. When the food arrived and my friend asked why she didn't get the toast that was on the menu, the waitress said that she never gives the toast without someone asking for it, however she didn't make that clear when we were ordering. My friend then ordered the toast, which she never received. Her tea did not arrive until the end of the meal, and was the wrong flavor, and we didn't get any water refills. The entire time the waitress apologized that it's this busy every week and that there wasn't anything she could do about it. We left brunch sorely disappointed by the service and it went from being my friend's favorite brunch spot to one she and I will not return to unless they hire more help and train their wait staff better. It's too bad because the only reason Em's gets 2 stars is that my huevos rancheros were delicious.
(2)Tiana G.
Nicest waitress on the entire planet. Most delicious Benedict on the entire planet.
(5)Steve K.
Very good food, fairly reasonably priced and they take a reservation! Their butter is some of the best butter I've had. You almost keep asking for more bread and butter because the butter is so good. The salad's are great as are the appetizers. Most of the entrees are also very good. Considering the reasonable price, very good food and nice atmosphere, I recommend this place.
(4)Laurence B.
Returned to Em's Restaurant last night for the first time in years. It is still a great cozy spot for having dinner with friends. I had the potato lasagna, which was a hit. Molten chocolate cake lacked an oozing center, which I would call a miss. So this recent visit was much like those I remember: Em's is a really good place to get a decent meal but always is lacking something to keep it from being great.
(4)Lindsay K.
The tomato appetizer special was amazing. It was topped with a pesto sauce, balsamic reduction, prosciutto, and delicious creamy mozzarella. I had the salmon dish for my entree. It too was delicious, well cooked. It was on a bed of creamy cabbage, and while also good, was a bit too creamy for my taste. Overall the food was great, but a bit overpriced. The service was a bit slow, which I would have minded if I hadn't been enjoying my companion and our conversation.
(4)Nathan I.
Brunch is very underwhelming. Ordered the two eggs and bacon with potatoes (easiest thing in the world to make). Waited over 45 minutes and waitress came once to fill up drinks. There was nobody else in the restaurant either, so why it took so long is a bit confusing. They said they were overwhelmed at this time of day. Once I got the food, it was under portioned, dry, plain, and unseasoned. The bacon was the only reason for 2 stars rather than one as it was thicker than a regular McDonalds slice. The waitress seemed nice though. Would not recommend if you're looking for brunch and are hungry because you WILL wait.
(2)Andrea C.
I've been here twice,in one month, and I have been extremely satisfied each time. The servers are great as well. It's a must if you are new to the area or just visiting!
(5)Nicholas T.
These guys are awesome!!! We brought our Dog "Lucy" with us and they treated her as if she was a customer. If you are looking for amazing food amazing environment and a place that caters to dogs.. This is the place. They make you feel like this is your own personal restaurant. Keep up the great work guys.. You are our new favorite spot!
(5)Bryan C.
Really cute set up. Service was good, a bit slow but that's because it was kinda packed. The house salad was really good. We had the tamales for appetizer, kinda small so not good for sharing. I had the lamb which was excuisite but the portion was very small, I was still a bit hungry afterwards. My wife had the pork chop, she loved it and the portion was very decent. We had raspberry crème broulle for desert which was absolutely fantastic. Overall our experience was satisfying . we would recommend this place, it is worth the try .
(4)Denise L.
I love this place. Though it is definitely expensive, despite the $$ yelp rating. The atmosphere is very nice. Quiet, clean, and nice outdoor seating underneath an grape-vined awning. Our waiter, Seth, was very helpful and gave us lots of information on the menu and drinks. Appetizers: we had 2 specials: the scallops with corn were absolutely fantastic and definitely the best thing we ate. We also had the proscuitto wrapped figs that were stuffed with goat cheese. Delicious! The entress come with a house salad. House salad is only okay-lettuce drizzled with vinegar and some cheese. I had the halibut, which was very good. My husband had the rack of lamb, which is actually 3 lamb chops. It came with a tasty potato side. I look forward to returning here.
(5)patti g.
Was in Salt Lake for business with a friend who used to live there and knew about Em's. It is a hidden gem. Quite, unassuming but with a great vibe. Food and service both amazing. What a great place to go hang out with friends and be able to have great conversation over great food. Can't wait to go back.
(5)Victoria H.
Em's on a weeknight is just as great as any busy weekend. Last night we stopped in with a couple of friends. Between the 4 of us we ordered the scallops, lamb patties and dates for appetizers. The dates were (surprisingly) the group's favorite. For entrees we ordered the marinated pork chop, a duck breast special, beef tenderloin and short rib. Each of us taste tested all the dishes. The runaway winner was the short rib. Yum. Em's is still on my short list of recommendations.
(4)L N.
Cute boutique type environment below the Capitol I think has some great potential, however, it starts with the people completely unfriendly besides the barista he was great! Jeff the first team member that greeted us 1. Wrote the wrong name down 2. Gave away our table 3. Zero personality with a lack of understanding in the hospitality industry after Jeff we had another team member who wasn't wearing a name tag and threw our waters on the table and never had the option to order something to drink besides the coffee I brought from the coffee lounge. Well were ready to order and immediately we're told they're out of Rolls, Corn Beef Hash, and crepes. Yet another management issue. If you don't like the service industry get out! I wouldn't recommend this staff to the local McDonald's!
(1)Rich T.
Habanero ice cream might be good but on this Sunday morning they are glacially slow in serving so be warned. They do about 10 plates every 30 minutes so make sure u count so u can estimate the wait. Nice spot I think. The food was pretty good, but just beware of the wait.
(3)Suzanne F.
This restaurant is a little jewel, tucked in a neighborhood of houses and condos. The food was outstanding, service really friendly and attentive. We had people in our group with food allergies, and the waitress was extremely knowledgeable about the ingredients. Scallops appetizer was fresh, perfectly prepared and delicious. The duck breast with sweet potato purée was so luscious I wanted to lick the plate! If you are in SLC, don't miss this place!
(5)Stephanie B.
I must agree with the reviewer below. If I could design my perfect neighborhood restaurant, this would be it. It's not far for us to go fortunately because we will be back often! First of all Em's have strange hours. The waitress is the one that told us this so to make sure we always call and make a reservation (which I LOVE to do) so that we always know it's open. She said they do a lot of weddings and private parties. The place is CUTE! It's an old, charming building and the patio (in season) looks to be adorable! The service was great and our food was incredible. I wish they had some different options on the appetizer side of things, but in the end I opted for just an entree. The table had steaks and also the tuna. All meals were excellent. I had the filet and it was perfect. The wine list was great and not too pricy. I can't wait to go again!
(5)Jean W.
In anticipation of a Sunday morning crowd, our party of five secured a patio reservation. GPS got us to Main Street - not one of us was familiar with this area just west of the Capitol. Em's is a little hard to detect tucked away in its residential neighborhood. Walking up, the surrounding area is wooded and beautiful. The interior was interesting and cozy, and no detectable crowd had yet gathered. We were greeted and promptly seated at our umbrella-outfitted table in the sun. The south patio is partially shaded by a beautiful wood trellis proudly displaying prolific real grapevines; many other interesting plants adorn the perimeter. It was really very lovely here in the morning. The brunch menu is brief but solid, offering a few delicious sounding options. We loved that they feature a "Roll of the Day," or you can choose their everyday Cinnamon Sticky Buns. We were intrigued by a Raspberry Peach Roll looking for a home via our waiter, so we graciously offered to adopt and devour it. Divine...but a little like eating dessert first. Oh well. Bigger tragedies have occurred. Here's what we ordered - - Southwest Casserole (brunch special of the day) - Smoked Salmon Frittata - Bacon & Eggs/Ham & Eggs - Herbed Crepe with Ham & Scrambled Eggs Everyone agreed that the food was very good, even down to the toast which came with its own dollop of jam on the plate. The highlight meal was the Salmon Frittata, garnering rave reviews all around. The SW Casserole was tasty and employed well thought out flavors, but fell a bit flat for me in the spice arena. I would have loved a bit more kick here, even if it were in the form of bottled sauce. But there was no hot sauce (or ketchup, for that matter) to be found. The crepe was subtle and delicious. Most of us ordered the roasted potatoes side. They were lightly seasoned and pan-fried to crispy perfection. We each had 8 small potato pieces, which made us conclude that they must count them upon plating. They looked very lonely on the plate with so few. When they brought the coffee cups I almost told the waiter that we hadn't ordered espresso. Their cups are so tiny only 5 minutes went by before another refill was needed. They certainly weren't the worst I've seen at refills, but considering the size of the cups, they should be a lot more on top of the refill sitch. There were several 15 minute periods where all of our coffee cups were empty. Which, for a coffanatic like myself, is a big no-no; particularly as we made a point of mentioning up front that the cups were so small it was obvious that frequent refills would be a necessity. The service was very friendly and relaxed, despite what appeared to be an eventual full house. But delivery of the food was very slow. We waited 30 minutes after ordering before they began to bring it out. It's good we had beautiful surroundings to take our minds off the delay. There was never much recognition from our server that two of us never received the orange juice ordered, which was only ordered because they didn't deliver the hot chocolate they eventually discovered they were out of. We were happy to note that at least the bill didn't reflect a charge for either. We had a very relaxing morning at Em's, with great food and lovely atmosphere. We were busy chatting, and must have spent an additional 30 minutes at our table after the bill was paid and plates were cleared. But we never felt rushed or abandoned at any point. Prices were very reasonable with most brunch entrees coming in under $10. Our total bill was surprisingly affordable. The few relatively minor hiccups we encountered brought our experience from a 5-star to a 4-star, but it was still a worthy meal, with no major complaints. We look forward to eventually revisiting Em's to try out the dinner menu.
(4)Camille C.
Tucked away gem on Capitol Hill. We've been here many times--it's one of our local favorites. Our service has always been friendly and prompt. The specials are always good, and a new appetizer choice is a cheese stuffed portabello mushroom that was large enough to share. Yum. The fish dish is usually to die for and the halibut was no exception. I opted for the house mashed potatoes instead of jasmine rice. If you can get the potatoes with your dish I highly recommend them. The butter.... Sometimes they are surprisingly busy here so I recommend resies just so you get a table.
(4)Linda T.
Waitstaff had no idea what they were doing! Bad training. Not attentive and very poor etiquette. The meal was just okay. I expect more out of Em's and have gotten it in the past. I hope someone picks up the ball because I love this little neighborhood restaurant.
(2)M. F.
Read the reviews from others first, and found a mixed bag. Noticed that there are not too many 2014 reviews, which means that word has finally got out that EM's is not amazing. We have been there three times, each time I wondered why we had given Em's another chance? Food is tasteless, no matter how fancy the menu is, if the food is tasteless it's not worth a dime.
(2)Kelly G.
I've thrown a few dinner parties in the private room, and its always fantastic. Em's is a little further from downtown, which is great as you don't run into the same crowds. The service is always fantastic, and the menu is inventive and fresh. Make a reservation, and go immediately. Excellent!
(5)Lexi S.
About 2 weeks ago, I decided to give Em's a try for a nice, quiet dinner. What a fantastic decision. This particular evening caused Em's to take a leap into my top 5 dinner spots in Salt Lake. I should have reviewed sooner, but I have been remiss. Our evening was perfect, from the dim lighting and ambiance, to the service and most importantly, the food. The bread and butter, perfect! This says a lot about a restaurant and Em's started us out on the right foot.We ordered the lentil soup, dates, and scallop appetizer. Everything came out beatuifully. We mentioned to our server that we were in no rush and wanted to take our time. His pacing was right on. The scallop appetizer was the winner for our starters but the others were still lovely puntuation marks. For entrees, we had filet and the marinated pork. Simplistic dishes in that you have a protein, potatoe and veggie on each plate, but elevated in many ways. The saucing on each plate was unique and complimented the particular protein in a way that made our palates intrigued with each bite. The potatoes were creamy and delicious and the asparagas and carrot sides were executed really well. Not an afterthought here. Everything combined on our plates in harmony. I am ready to head back for the next culinary symphony.
(5)Quin H.
Foot was fine, but they are drunk on their own amazingness. The staff don't know how to keep thing organized, the much touted cinnamon roll was cold and the service was extremely slow. There are far better places to over-pay for Sunday breakfast.
(2)Alison G.
One of the best meals we've ever had in a restaurant. Love the seasonal menu. LOVED the bread pudding. Loved the scallops and salmon and butternut soup and gnocchi. everything was amazing. Very relaxing and romantic atmosphere. Nice and quiet. Wonderful music. Excellent service.
(5)AM F.
Out-of-town visit for skiing, and we found a great spot, as always with Yelp! Delicious, wholesome, handmade and relaxing. A true gem in a wonderful state.
(5)Janean P.
I've had some good meals at Em's and when I realized they had a patio and served Sunday brunch, it didn't take long for me to invite some friends and go try it out. This time, however, things didn't go as smoothly as they have in the past. I decided to live tweet my experience. 12:05: We arrived just 5 minutes after our reserved time. 12:10 Some creative umbrella placement allowed my group not to be broiled alive on the sunny patio. 12:20 Waitress apologized for being 'frazzled' and took our order. I was disappointed to learn that they were out of crepes. 12:57 Decided to take a photo and tweeted "Em's patio is not as shady as I'd like." Someone at the table finally grabbed a waiter and asked if they could get a 2nd round of mimosas only to be told that the restaurant had run out of champagne. We all drank water. 1:21 Tweeted: "You know you've been waiting too long when someone decides to put ice on the centerpieces." The little plants in their pots were completely dry and one looked like it was dying. We might not have noticed if we'd had food in front of us. 1:24 Tweeted: "You know you've been waiting too long when you have to move the umbrella with the sun." AND it was getting really hot. 1:25 Tweeted: "You know you've been waiting too long when everyone pulls out their phone to play Words." As food continued not to arrive, phones came out in the place of plates. There's no such thing as boredom in the 21st century. 1:29: Tweeted: "Finally. $10 worth of smoked salmon benedict which took an hour and a half to come." The table fell silent as all 7 of us wolfed down our food. What took 1 1/2 hours to prepare, took about 5 minutes to consume. A bus boy explained that the kitchen had gotten slammed which delayed our orders but we left wondering why ours were the only orders affected. We'd watched people arrive after us and get their food at reasonable times. We were the last to leave the restaurant that afternoon.
(3)Kelly S.
Tried Em's this morning for breakfast. For a Sunday morning, it was nice and quiet. Didn't have to wait for a table at all. Service was very friendly and efficient, and the atmosphere was perfect for a blustery Sunday am--casual but nice...if that makes sense., Food was tasty! I had the smoked salmon Benedict and the husband had huevos rancheros. Both were very good. I'm only giving Em's 4 stars because it was our first time there, but we will most certainly be back for both breakfast and dinner.
(4)Elaine H.
What a perfect little neighborhood bistro. My husband and I loved this little place hidden on the hills of SLC! The crowd looked sophisticated, but not snobby. We felt very under dressed in our jeans and tshirts, but we were welcomed by a gracious host, and seated immediately. As the night wore on, the place got more and more romantic, and the food just got better and better. The short ribs were some of the best that I have ever had. This place is unassuming, cozy, and I cannot wait to stop in for brunch!
(5)Jowanza J.
For the price you are going to get very well crafted food and an even better experience. The service is great and they are willing to make any accommodations you would like. It's also a great place for the vegetarians and vegans out there.
(5)Christina B.
What holds this place back is its lack of experienced service. We were told a few minutes wait, but then waited roughly thirty minutes while empty tables sat unused. It was a Sunday at brunch, so we expected a wait, but not with empty tables. After seeing other reviews I wonder if part of the staff didn't show again, leading me to wonder if there will ever be consistent service at this eatery. We were seated at the same time as a group that came considerably later than we did. The server waited the latter table first and they ordered the last of the cinnamon rolls, leaving us canceling our order. Our server was forced to cover the other waitress who was clearly less competent, resulting in slower service. Once the food came, even more disappointment. Huevos rancheros with no sign of salsa. Side of potatoes that amounted to two bites. A special that was not so special : strata that was dominantly bread and very little chicken. Everything was just a little bland and needed seasoning. My whole party thought perhaps we were on a candid camera show. Overall just not impressed.
(2)Amanda V.
I came to this lovely Capitol Hill restaurant for lunch with friends, and the whole experience was a delight. Em's blends right in to the neighborhood. In fact, I lived a couple blocks away for a year and never knew it existed. The building is a classic brick charmer with big, big windows in the front. It has a nice patio on the side for dining al fresco in nice weather. My party ordered four entrees, including the herb crepe and tamales, and they were all wonderful. The flavors were strong and delicious - no extra salt needed, hooray! The cheese-filled tamales with black beans were seriously to-die-for. Good potion sizes, too. We each ordered an entree and left very satisfied. I will say the service was a little slow. The food came out quickly enough, but the server took a long time to get us checked out (she blamed the lunch rush, but why was there only one server at lunch?). But honestly, Em's is such a pleasant place to be, I delay. While I might not go here when I'm in a rush, for a leisurely meal spent catching up with friends, it's perfect.
(4)Alan M.
A pleasant restaurant in a charming location. The food was generally good, but very uneven. While I enjoyed most dishes, a couple were sub par, including one that was so laughably bad that I actually laughed. Overall, I wouldn't mind giving it another try.
(3)Sam V.
After a not-so-subtle hint, wink, and a nudge to my boyfriend one day saying that I wanted to try Em's, he ended up "surprising" me with going to Em's this past date night. I will admit it, I made an overly excited squeal noise when I found out he made reservations, which, for a Friday night, I would highly recommend you do as well. The place was a little difficult to find, and parking can be a bit difficult if you don't know what you're doing (we ended up parking the street over before we saw they had a lot), but we eventually finally found our way to our destination. I really liked the feel of the space, albeit a little tight and cozy, and tad on the modern side. As far food goes, we ordered the phyllo dough wrapped goat cheese with duck confit, a special of the night, the butternut squash ravioli in a brown butter sage sauce (very popular these days), the free range chicken stuffed with goat cheese and pine nuts over mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, and the pecan bread pudding with caramel sauce and ice cream. Everything was delicious, including the unexpected salads, bread & butter. I thought all of the dishes were executed well, I just wasn't a big fan of the texture of the duck confit appetizer, and the ravioli was good, not great. I would have to say the biggest winner of the night was the bread pudding. Like Joshua S., I think this is one of the best bread puddings I've had in my life. I'm just sad that we opted to share it instead of getting one each.
(4)Bud H.
Quaint little place. Reminds me of something in San Francisco. Some of the best short ribs around. Very, very tasty. So tasty, in fact, that I have a hard time ordering anything else.
(4)Michelle T.
I loved this place! I had a wonderful brunch there. Self-service tea and coffee is the best. Fantastic food, really good value and the decor/ambiance is perfect. I would go back many times if I lived in SLC.
(5)BykeRyde R.
Cute little place, friendly service. Only went for breakfast, I ordered the herbed crepes stuffed w eggs, my friend ordered the huevos rancheros. Food was more than decent, not quite a 5. I certainly appreciate that they have a waiting area with serve-yourself coffee...it's thoughtful and definitely helps the waiting go by faster !
(4)Rae G.
Tucked away in a charming neighborhood, this local gem is not to be missed. I went on a Sunday morning and showed up right as they were opening, there were no lines and ample parking. The ambiance is charming and our server Chris was attentive and provided speedy service. I had the herbed crepes, they were fantastic with the fried apples (which are much healthier tasting than they sound). The prices were very reasonable and the coffee is self serve so you never have to wait for a warm up. The only caveat is that I didn't think the coffee was that great, but that isn't a deal breaker for me.
(5)Jeb A.
Consistently my favorite restaurant in SLC. I absolutely love the consistently inspired seasonal menu, the friendly helpful but not overly attentive staff, and the great balance of casual/formal atmosphere which avoids the pitfall of many of SLCs other gourmet eateries - that being a superiority complex of being a fine dining establishment in a small market. Em's delivers delicious fare without haughty hubris. The only reasons I don't give em's five stars are: - the self-service coffee at brunch; the thermoses tend to run out quickly and it takes away from the luxury of full service, - on especially cold nights tables near the front door and windows are at the mercy of chilly drafts. I will always send discerning food lovers to em's.
(4)Jamie J.
"Em, I thought you would be a Gem. But after my meal, my joy dropped: like a seed from a stem. OH Em, maybe there will be another opportunity for us to meet again." Now that I am done with my poem - I would like to start with recognizing my own bias. I Yelped (duh) Em's before I came and really had my expectations up to the ceiling. Being from Seattle, I'm not up on SLC's food game. So, maybe my expectations were too high or, maybe Yelp lost this battle - that's a first. Everything here is great, except for the food. The menu sounds great, but that's only half the battle. I ordered the goat cheese "stuffed" chicken. It really was a chicken breast with a hole on the top, covered in grainy cheese, and served with a side of overcooked, chewy, asparagus. Also served with mashed potatoes that were just ok. I have to be real here, I was almost offended at how dry my chicken was. I really don't appreciate saw dust like food, call me unique. But, I didn't even eat half of my plate (that's unheard of)! Let's try something else: The duck. Duck is beautiful meat when it cooked right. Redish pink in color, with visible juice and a nice crisp skin. Well, here comes the purple, almost black, duck with it's limp side of asparagus (sound familiar)? Also left on the plate. I think Em is deserving of 3 stars, I might sounds harsh, but my expectations were high, and there was just nothing more than satisfactory about any of the five dishes I tried. Please Note: The decor, ambiance, service, and overall experience here is delightful. It's quaint and intimate. Overall, Em I was a little let down. I'm a sucker for second chances when it comes to food. Maybe one day I can write a happy poem about you.
(3)Julia R.
Of all the restaurants I thought of taking my 86 year old mother to on the first night of her visit from Dallas, I unfortunately, chose Em's. Good food deserves good service, something Em's Restaurant doesn't seem to understand. We reserved a table at Em's for 7:00 pm on a Wednesday night. After 80 minutes and no entree, we left. Before deciding to leave, we asked to speak to a manager and were told there is no manager. Really? Perhaps that is the problem. Em was there, in the kitchen, but she was 'busy' and sent a message that if we had a complaint about the service, we should talk to our waiter. Em, you need a course on customer service. In addition, shortly after we were seated, a glass was broken by the door to the patio and the broken glass was never swept up as people in open sandals came in and out of the door. Em, how about a course on safety?
(1)Amanda H.
Oh me oh my. I wanted to like Ems. I really did. But alas, my dining experience was just ok...average at best. So I should have listened to Jamie J's review regarding the asparagus. I was so excited to try their herb chicken salad with asparagus. As Jamie mentioned in her review, the asparagus was so over cooked it was practically inedible. The chicken was nice tender, not dry, but it lacked in flavor. I found myself reaching for the salt shaker several times. I also had to ask for more dressing. It was a little lack luster as well. But the bleu cheese was nice and creamy. The service, while friendly, was extremely slow. We waited for more than hour after we ordered for our food. Oddly enough we saw the chef running out the back door for a few minutes and then came back in with a brown paper bag that had a container of the leafy greens in it...I am sure they were the same greens that ended up on my plate. Where did he keep them? In his trunk?? Weird. The waitress did offer the table a complimentary dessert to make up for the long wait. She brought out a bread pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Both were delish. Not sure if I'd go back again or not. We'll see... PS They don't split checks, so be prepared with cash if you're paying separately.
(3)Christopher W.
Em's is a SLC gem hidden just west of the Capitol. This place is a hip dining hot spot that I fell in love with upon my first visit. It is very popular so call ahead and make a reservation. If you are looking for a relaxed fine dining experience, this is the place for you! The food will blow your mind. I appreciate that everything is fresh and local. Even the ice cream is made in house! They have a standard menu which is available year round along with a seasonal menu that changes frequently. The servings are small but the flavors are HUGE! During the summer months make sure to sit on the patio, it is amazing. This is my favorite place to dine in Utah. Em's has become my go to spot to take out of town visitors. When my parents visit from Phoenix we head straight to Em's from the airport because they love this place as much as I do. Things I love to eat here:* Beet Salad Goat Cheese Salad Halibut (It was a summer special) Artichoke Appetizer (also a special, but I dream of this tasty delight) Potato Lasagna Homemade Habanero Ice cream (will burn your mouth and blow your mind) *I have never hated anything I have eaten here.
(5)Robert R.
Went last night for a rehearsal dinner. The location and decoration are good. The potato lasagna was dry. The creme brulee was also dry.
(2)Jessica T.
Went there on a Sunday night when a lot of places in SLC are closed. Neither my dining companion or I were overly impressed. The food was okay, but not of the caliber I expected after reading Yelp. I had the fig appetizer and the halibut entree, and my companion had the corn & poblano soup and the spinach ravioli. None of these were above average. Friendly service and pleasant ambiance, but good (not great) food.
(3)Ashlee M.
The bread pudding!
(5)Taige E.
Always great food and atmosphere.
(5)Anne W.
Feeling a little Spring in my step (I'm must be delusional from the missing hour of sleep), I went to Em's on a whim for brunch. The space is nice and bright. It's small, but not crowded. There is enough room between tables that you aren't bumping your chair back into anybody and throwing off their dining grove. There are also fresh flowers on the table, which I thought was a nice touch. Really, my favorite part was how nice and sunny and open the place felt. The waitress was nice, but quiet. I think she tried to be as invisible as possible, which I would appreciate if I had a dining companion with me, but I didn't. She was invisible to the point that I didn't get my drink refiled (BAD) and I did have to wait awhile for my food. I didn't mind waiting for my food. I'm Italian and used to waiting for my meals, especially if it means they will be tasty. But, I don't like cold drinks when they aren't supposed to be cold. Refresh my beverage, please. I ordered the Herbed Crepe. Very good and worth the wait. It was stuffed full of eggs, Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, ham and red peppers. The eggs were cooked through (I hate slimy eggs!) and the flavors were nicely balanced. The crepe was just the right amount of crispy, not soggy like a nasty Village Inn crepe. Everything tasted fresh. Overall, a great little place. Great atmosphere and great food. I will definitely try it again to see if I just hit the waitress on a bad day.
(3)Brooke C.
Had a phenomenal lunch here with my mom the other day. We shared the scrumptious potato pancakes and each had a delicious herbed crepe, accompanied by a crisp Pinot Grigio. I plan to return whenever I'm in Salt Lake.
(5)Shauna M.
Great location. Very quaint. De Service was terrific. Food selection was amazing. Presentation divine. Taste was over the top delicious!!
(5)Catherine A.
It seems I have had the opposite experience of some users. I had excellent service and only mediocre food. I had a turkey sandwich on sourdough bread. It was pretty bland. Kinda wish I had tried something else.
(3)Jana A.
Been eating here for years and it's my favorite restaurant in all of Salt Lake. We had our wedding rehearsal dinner here and have celebrated nearly every special occasion from birthdays to promotions to anniversaries here. We love the wait staff and have tried nearly everything on the menu. I certainly have my favorites and some items I think should be changed, but overall we love it. It's right in our neighborhood and Emily the owner lives nearby. It's so nice to support a delicious establishment right in our neighborhood.
(5)becky r.
love it love it love it!! Not pretentious, well priced, tasteful menu, and friendly service. Oh and great location in the Marmalade district of downtown Salt Lake City near the Capital. Plus they have a covered patio. Everything I've tried there I've enjoyed from the house salad with fresh parmesan, to the asparagus soup, and turkey sandwich. Don't forget dessert also. This place is a must try for sure!
(5)Kiesha J.
Hip lil spot near the Capitol. I tried Em's with a group of friends last summer and fell in love with it. It's a little restaurant, but what it lacks in space it makes up for in charm. Awesome art work, fresh flowers on every table, great music and even better food. We started with a stuffed artichoke as an appetizer. I have been back a handful of times and haven't seen this on the menu since that first time. I keep coming back in hopes of seeing it again. It was that good. It was stuffed with a mayo based sauce and bacon. Umm how can you beat bacon/mayo/artichoke? My entree was rack of lamb served with potatoes, shallot custard & jalapeno jelly. It was amazing. Melt in your mouth amazing. We finished with a hot brownie topped with habanero chocolate icecream. To die for. I've since been back a handful of times and have yet to have a bad or even ok meal. Love this place. In fact I even moved 3 houses down from Em's in hopes of seeing that stuffed artichoke on the menu again. I kid, but having Em's next door has changed my life.
(5)Jason C.
Em's is one of my favorite restaurants in Salt Lake City. Every time I go there, I am blown away with the quality of the food and the taste. For a few weeks out of the year, Em serves a sweet corn that is impeccable. I only wish it was available all the time. The meat dishes, fish dishes, and vegetables are all delicious and their wine selection was impressive. Delicious!!
(5)John N.
Painfully slow describe EM's in a nutshell. Nutshell describes portion sizes. First, parking is on the street, and if the restaurant is busy, you'll get a little walking exercise. After arriving we were seated quickly, but after 20 minutes the waiter finally acknowledged us and asked if we were ready to order. Really, ready to order? After ordering it took another 20 minutes to get our house salads and prison ration piece of bread. The house salad consists of a few pieces of salad, which makes Costco samples seem like a feast. 30 minutes later came our entries, which were good--good and small. We left hungry and thirsty, since after being served the waiter did not come back once. I resorted to drinking my wife's water since I ran out and never had a refill. 20 more minutes to get a bill--couldn't wait to get out. Overall, a real European dining experience--slow, unfriendly service and portion sizes meant for a French poodle. I went straight home and fixed myself some dinner. This place has shamefully poor service, prison ration servings and a dry well. Avoid!
(1)Christine N.
Truly as good as it gets. My husband and I have been several times and have been newly impressed each time. Food is fresh and creative, always beautiful. Menu is eclectic, my favorite are the starters, we order one of each. Vegetarian lasagna on the dinner menu was our favorite in the fall. Not sure if it's always on the menu as Em's uses local produce. Price is very reasonable, lunch menu even more so. Can't say enough about Em's!
(5)Hannah G.
Vegetarian Diners: This eclectic little restaurant in Salt Lake City, Nevada offers exciting new flavors and a place to eat on Sundays when most businesses and restaurants are otherwise closed. AMBIANCE: Em's is located in a neighborhood setting and could easily be overlooked. Once you're inside, however, you enter a spacious abode with pleasant music and an assortment of eclectic art pieces on the walls. Everything about the restaurant screams cool, clean, crisp and hip. MENU: The menu is not designed to cater to vegetarians, but it does include an appealing selection of salads and features at least one vegetarian entrée. You may also be lucky enough to stop by for a visit when a vegetarian friendly entrée is one of their daily specials. FOOD: It's been almost a year since I ate at Em's (long before I had the idea to share wonderful food with my vegetarian friends and readers), so I cannot recall the salad and entrée that I ordered. I do, however, remember my palate being tantalized by every bite. All of the food at Em's is made with local, organic products which means that the creative menu items are even more delicious with the potent flavors that only locally grown foods can offer. I do remember ordering dessert: The chocolate chunk brownie with homemade ice cream. It was divine. SERVICE: The service at this restaurant was mediocre. It wasn't great and it wasn't terrible. We did arrive at the door about fifteen minutes before the restaurant would be open for dinner, but they were nice enough to let us in. We were tired and hungry (and I was thoroughly ticked that everything in Salt Lake City was closed), so we may not have exuded our most bubbly personalities either. Or, our early arrival may have caught the server off guard who likely expected fifteen more minutes to get his mind in the work zone. Either way, we received our food in a timely manner and our drinks were never empty, but there was a definite lack of spark in the service. PRICE: Expect to spend a little bit more at Em's Restaurant, but know that you're paying for fresh ingredients and delectable food. Most entrees are around $20.00 per person and a starter or salad is $5.00 to $9.00. The only reason I can't give Em's five beets is because their menu is very limited for vegetarians. Em's has different hours on different days of the week, and during our visit it filled up relatively quickly. I would recommend checking out the menu and calling ahead of time to ensure that a palatable vegetarian meal is available and that they will be open when you plan to dine at their wonderful restaurant.
(3)Michael M.
I love this place. the food is special, the environment is lovely. I can't get enough of it. I regularly go in for dinner (haven't tried brunch). Hands down the best meal i've had in salt lake in the last year. I always enjoy the food. I'm reading the reviews here and there are gripes about salt and what not. I really have to disagree - the food seemed to be always seasoned to perfection when I've eaten there (6-8 times so far). I do know that they keep fresh ingredients. It's not a big chain so they do occasionally run out of items - but with an extensive menu for the size of the restaurant & kitchen, you're bound to find something else you will love. I've worked in about 12 restaurants myself (NY, LA, SLC) and believe that this is truly a great spot. Be sure to make your reservation ahead of time. It's not always easy getting in! They are obviously doing something right! #1 Favorite restaurant in SLC
(5)Jenni S.
We arrived between noon and 1pm on Sunday for brunch and there was no wait. Sweet! They do have bloody marys and mimosas. The coffee was self serve, which was an interesting concept. No waiting for the server to fill your cup, just head up to the bar whenever. We had a sticky bun and the roll of the day (maple bacon) and they were pretty good. Slathered in very sweet glaze. I enjoyed my frittata, paired with the fried apples. Husband ordered the special which was a strata (bread pudding) with chicken and swiss cheese and he paired his with the potatoes. We were both satisfied. The bill was slightly spendy, about $40 for the two of us, only one alcoholic beverage, but we did splurge on the sweet rolls. Our server was "cute as a button" and did a great job. Loved the neighborhood which we aren't really familiar with. It was fun to check it out.
(4)Aaron J.
After a friend turned us on to this out-of-the-way restaurant we were excited to try what we heard so much about. We like to support the local small businesses so we really wanted to like Em's. We ate lunch and the food was so-so and the service left much to be desired. The place wasn't busy, so after a slow-motion server and a kitchen that shared this same characteristic we had too much time to think about how the food was, well, just okay. I think it deserves another shot. Maybe dinner next time.
(2)Leah B.
The holidays took us back to Salt Lake City and for New Years Eve we made reservations at Em's. We had previously eaten at Em's before moving to Denver, but not in several years. The prices looked good, and we had really enjoyed the atmosphere in the past. Again, the atmosphere was wonderful and warm. The restaurant is small enough that each room feels intimate, but with enough ambient sound to make it friendly. But the atmosphere was really the only impressive part of the meal. There was no bartender so our waiter needed to mix drinks and he did not know how to make several beverages ordered by people in our party. We also brought several bottles of wine and the corkage fee was $15/bottle--pretty expensive for Salt Lake City. On to the menu. There were two separate menus. FULL menus. The regular menu and the specials menu were quite extensive. In a restaurant as small as Em's a menu that extensive is troublesome because you know that the dishes were not as carefully thought out. The chef went for quantity over quality. For example, every dish had the same side--an unimpressive brown-butter sautee of green beans and carrots. I ordered a lamb chop dish with a mint jelly. While the meat was tastily prepared the mint jelly was clearly spooned from a jar and haphazardly slapped on the plate. The dish had no harmony. Taylor ordered a beef filet with mashed potatoes. The cut was not very good and was, overall, forgettable. However, we each had a frisee salad which was tasty. I hate to pan a restaurant like Em's because it is in a great neighborhood and the atmosphere is delightful. Furthermore, it is a small independently owned fine dining restaurant in a city full of cheap family restaurants and chains. However, the chef would do well to focus on several small dishes
(3)Keith R.
This casual yet classy neighborhood place is a delightful find just 5 minutes drive from the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square. This is far and away one of the best restaurants in Salt Lake City and food is right up there with the best neighborhood places in the Bay Area. There were at least 3 appetizers competing directly for my attention and the entrees did not disappoint either - especially the meat dishes. Dessert was also truly stellar - I loved the chocolate ice cream flavored with Habanero pepper. It was the first time I had spicy ice cream and I'm already trying to figure out how I can get back to Utah for a second helping. The staff was friendly and helpful without being over-solicitous. The building is historical and charming much like the surrounding area. I highly recommend Em's and look forward to my next visit.
(4)Nick J.
From simple side-dishes to some of the more creative brunch dishes, this easily became one of my favorite Sunday brunch spots. The herbed crepe was packed full and delicious. Homemade sticky buns that are not too-sticky, but perfectly sweet and enormous. Very comfortable patio.
(4)Andrew P.
I have eaten sunday brunch at Em's twice now and my conclusion is that they are inconsistent. Today we were told that they had ran out of two of the menu items. Furthermore, when our meals did arrive they were not what we ordered. The first time that we went to Em's it was a good experience. However, my feeling today is that I don't want to go back to Em's ever again because I can't be sure what kind of experience I will have there. I really want to like Em's because it is in my neighborhood, but I don't think that I can.
(2)Picabo L.
This place may serve a great Sunday brunch, but we wouldn't know since we arrived mid morning were told that they stopped serving food despite being open until 1:00pm. There was no shortage of open tables and the waitstaff was downright unapologetic and rude.
(1)Todd S.
The roasted zucchini was great. Cool and chill place. Great value for the money for lunch.
(4)Cori L.
The food was delicious (think soups, salads and sandwiches) & the atmosphere was quaint & cozy! I'll be back :) Check their hours before you head over though, they have a slightly strange schedule.
(5)Bryton B.
Went to Em's for the first time today for brunch. I didn't really plan on it so I waited until about 10 minutes before 1 o'clock, not knowing that, that was is when they stop serving. My server was very nice and still sat me, gladly offering me to start with some coffee. I ended up choosing the Salmon eggs Bennidict and a Mimosa. The chef also came out and asked how my meal was. It was all quite delicous, and with the excellent service I received I will absolutely be returning to Em's for lunch and/or dinner! Thanks to my friend Tim for the reccomendation....and Ooooooh look, Fancy is a fan too! ;-)
(4)Adam D.
As someone who used to take out-of-town guests to Em's as an example of good, regional cuisine in a comfortable, unpretentious setting, I have to say that the last few times (fall 2008) have seen a drop off in quality to the point that I'll take folks somewhere else. The offerings (which seems to have been the exact same for the past three years) are fairly flavorful--particularly the maple barbecue pork chop--but the meat can be a little tough. If you have room for dessert, go for the chocolate habanero ice cream, which was unavailable the last time we were there :-( That said, the outdoor patio is great for summer eating, the location near the Capitol gives a great view, and it has an overall nice atmosphere with attentive wait staff, so if you don't mind average food, you will enjoy yourself.
(3)Raquelito M.
I was definitely skeptical about this place, given the limited lunch menu. I as prepare to be sorely disappointed, and only found myself raving how delicious the food was after the first bite! I had my toddler in tow, and the restaurant was extremely accomodating (tot wanted mashed potatoes, which Em's uses in their potato pancakes & lox; I asked for a side of potatoes, not fried, and they brought me a bowl). I will definitely make another trip there.
(5)Peter F.
Unbelievable find in the Marmalade. Upscale bistro with balanced and appealing menu. Table linens and terrific service. But wear your jeans and boots. It doesn't get better than this.
(5)Davin K.
Driving by, never knowing what days they were open, seeing the cars that lined the streets of the Bev Hills side of town, always was curious and finally one Sunday morning it was a nice walk around the hill, and coffee was needed. At least that and maybe a danish shouldn't be too expensive. But we were surprised, delectable sounding breakfasts for under ten bucks. The pancakes were huge an fluffy.. the Huevos Rancheros was divine, I'd be proud to make it like that at home. The coffee kept flowing and the server was quick, even with a full patio to deal with. This is on the list of regulars now, I think.
(4)Richard S.
Em's gets coveted 5 stars because its hip. Its small, on capitol hill, Roy Lichtenstein prints and other great art work is posted, the food is local, the menu is creative......no more needs to be said.
(5)Robin F.
Love Em's. Especially Sunday brunch on the patio.
(5)Tom N.
Neighborhood gem - nothing has blown me away but I would be stoked to have this place in my neighborhood.
(3)David S.
A nice spare little dining room and a lovely outdoor seating area when the weather is neither too hot nor too cold. The menu is heavy on salads and imaginative sandwiches at lunchtime. I don't go for dinner- i found it pricey and got too little to eat.
(4)Bette K.
Unless you have an inside scoop, you would never know about this place. Luckily, we did. Em's sits on a residential street surrounded by houses. The atmosphere is cool, clean, and hip without trying too hard. All of us enjoyed our food and the service was friendly but in a laid back way. If I were to ever own a restaurant, I'd want it to be like Em's. If you get through your meal and can handle dessert, then go for either the homemade brownie or the chocolate habanero ice cream (also made in house). OMG. The only negative was that the wine list was kind of lame unless you were willing to shell out huge bucks for a bottle. Simple solution - bring your own and cough up the corkage. If we ever find ourselves back in SLC, we will definitely return to Em's. If you live here or spend a lot of time here, then we encourage you to check it our for yourself!
(4)Dave R.
This is a small, out of the way gem. Food is always good, they have a great patio in the summer, and service is always friendly. This restaurant is in the top picks for me for Salt Lake City
(4)Kyle M.
I ordered the veal ravioli and didn't love it. It was a bit pricey for what I got.
(3)Max S.
Sunday brunch here is excellent. The dining area is a bit cramped, particularly in the winter months with no outdoor seating, but brunch is still sufficiently on the DL that you can easily find parking on the street nearby.
(4)Benjamin O.
Em's provides a pleasant and relatively casual setting in a residential neighborhood. A spacious patio is cooled by a breeze and was a good choice for a warm summer evening. 4 stars for the setting. Service was attentive but not intrusive, professional and friendly. 4 stars for the service. The food was uneven. Flatbread appetizer was little more than toasted pita with some melted cheese on it. The local lamb was bland, excessively fatty, and tough in places...barely a few nibbles of edible meat on each of the three small pieces. Pork tenderloin with dried fruit was better, with the brined meat tender and juicy. Deserts were decent...good sorbets, a tasty bread pudding.... 3 stars for the food. I go to restaurants primarily for the food, and I rate Em's 3 stars on this basis. If you're not that picky and just want some standard restaurant fare in a nice setting, call it 4 stars.
(3)Tom W.
Excellent food, awesome service, dog friendly patio, parking behind the Restrauant, what more can you ask for? The halibut was out of this world! Short ribs were to die for! Beef was wonderful. Good wine list. I'm totally hooked!
(5)Josh S.
Dear reader: please don't interpret my rating here as an indication that this restaurant serves good/average/redeemable in any way food. Let me be clear: the food here sucks. There is one redeeming factor, however: the people are awesome. The servers knew exactly when to step in and ask what we needed and when to back off and leave us alone. One recommendation: only order the Salmon Roulade when/if you are prepared to admit that rubber is your favorite base ingredient. Or if you don't mind spending about 18 hours sitting on the porcelain throne trying to pass a glue-ey Boulder.
(2)Chris P.
We discovered this place this morning after reading a review about it. Located in the 'Marmalade' district of Salt Lake City the architecture varies from Russian influenced to gothic revival to victorian mansions. We showed up right at opening time. They have self serve coffee which is a great thing. The wait staff was professional, courteous and friendly. I had the Salmon Eggs Benedict and Shannan had the Fritada. Both were absolutely excellent. We were going to try one of the sticky buns, but we forgot to order one...so next time. It appears that they take reservations - so since it is a small place it might be wise to do so. We looked at the dinner menu and it seemed very interesting. Can't speak on that...yet.
(5)Rebecca W.
I try to only review restaurants that I had a good experience at. But I had such a negative experience at Em's Restaurant this past weekend, I had to share. Lots of hype, but completely overpriced. I'm fine spending good money for a good meal. But this was anything but. We had a reservation for 9 people at 7 pm. We got there right at 7 pm, but the rest of our group didn't stroll in until 7:15. I don't believe it was an issue, because the dining room was practically empty, only one other table of people. Our waitress seemed nice, but the service was incredibly slow. She finally took our order around 7:30. But we didn't receive our salads until 7:50. The house salad was rather weak, as in literally the lettuce was completely weak and limp. I could barely get any leaves onto my fork. There were no vegetables or toppings, just a weak spring mix tossed in a vinaigrette. Some of our party ordered the beet salad and they seemed to like it. But they had to pay $5 extra to add the beet salad to their entree. We didn't get our entrees until 8:45. That's a very long time to wait between courses. I tried to be excited and forget about how hungry I was and just enjoy my meal. But there was so little of it, that it was difficult. I ordered the goat cheese and pine nuts stuffed chicken ($20) served with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The chicken had hardly any flavor. Every bite needed to have at least some of the stuffing to be slightly enjoyed. The rest of the breast was dry and flavorless. The mashed potatoes were good, but the seasonal vegetables was literally 2 green beans, and two thin carrot shavings. Definitely left more t be desired. My husband order the New York strip steak with blue cheese and caramelized onions ($25). It came with seasonal vegetables and "roasted potatoes." The potatoes definitely weren't roasted. They were boiled. They had no seasonings or oil or any additional flavor on top. He had to scrape off the toppings from the steak to eat with the potatoes. The potatoes were scorching hot, but the rest of the food was lukewarm. Onto the steak. My husband had asked for the steak to be cooked medium. He took the first few bites into the steak and enjoyed it. but when he got slightly to the center, it was much more pink. Not a problem, he had ordered medium. He cut one more level into it, and was completely raw through the entire center. At this point, we had already been at the restaurant for 2 hours and he had eaten most of the other food on his plate. We could have sent it back, but we didn't want to wait any longer, we just wanted to leave as soon as possible. It was a real disappointment. We had high hopes for this place and had heard such good things. But no part of the experience was enjoyable. The seats were uncomfortable. The bathroom was not up to par, everything took 3x longer than we were expecting, parking was terrible, and we left very frustrated about our experience because of all the time and money we lost. Next time, I'm convincing the group to go to Cafe Rio.
(2)Sergei N.
This restaurant is in a residential area close to Temple Square. We stopped by here briefly to catch a quick lunch and left not super impressed. My sandwich on sourdough bread was super plain. It was good but not really what i expect at a restaurant for ten bucks. The herb crepe with cheese was the exact opposite - it was the richest most cheese (soft) filled item i've ever eaten. It was difficult to eat because the flavor was so ... cheesy. The texture was way too gooey. There were also a ton of people doing somekind of a meeting there on a wednesday morning at 11. I'm assuming it wasnt an early lunch.. Overall I'd skip the place.
(3)Lisa B.
Em's is a delightful spot, with a lovely setting and a menu that steers toward light, inventive cuisine. The brunch is especially delicious and the garden bower is a beautiful place to be outdoors yet completely shaded in summer. I'm afraid, though, that I have to knock a star off for the unpredictable hours. We sometimes walk there from the Avenues -- and after more than one experience of its being closed when the website said it would be open, or being told that seating for brunch was over at 12:45, we learned to call and check before going.
(4)Dan R.
Wow were we impressed. My group of six pulled up in two taxis and we asked our driver if he had the right address because it sure did't look like he had after he stopped in a residential neighborhood. But there it was across the street, Em's is small, but we had called for a reservation and had a great table. Drink orders were filled quickly and we ordered some appetizers - Smoked Salmon & Crab Rolls with Avocado, Sesame Seed Vinaigrette & Cilantro Oil for $12.00, Tamales stuffed with Goat's Cheese served on a bed of Chipotle Con Crema for $9.00, and a nice charcuterie plate pff the special menus. For my entree I had the Red Wine Braised Short Ribs with Seasonal Vegetables & Mashed Potatoes for $24.00. It was served with a salad. I really liked my entree. The meat was tender and delicious. Everything on the plate was excellent. My share of the bill (appys, wine, entree and tip) was $60 and I thought it was a very good value for the quality of the food
(4)Joshua S.
Visit on 03/29/2014 -Country Pate (chicken) with mustard, olives and toast points. Mmm, chickeny! The combination of pate and mustard is a treat, for sure. The flavor of the chicken intensifies over time. -Potato Lasagna - Yukon Gold potatoes layered with Parmesan, Ricotta, Whole Milk Mozzarella & Seasonal Vegetables. The pleasant surprise of the evening. Very flavorful, herbaceous, and silky smooth. -Rack of Lamb with Potato, Shallot Custard & Jalapeño Jelly. Definitely a safe pick, every time. The lamb is not gamey at all, and the accompaniments are just that, accompaniments that enhance the main event. -Marinated Pork Chop in a Maple, Mustard & Bacon Barbeque Sauce with Mashed Potatoes & Seasonal Vegetables. Also a safe pick every time. So tender, juicy and flavorful. -Pan Roasted Duck Breast with Spiced Plum Sauce and Sweet Potato Puree. Sweet potato puree to die for! The duck fat was not rendered enough (not crispy), but the duck itself was delicious. -Pork Tenderloin with Yukon Gold potatoes. What can I say? It was tender, not dry and nicely executed. -Creme Brûlée. Silky cream. Not that cold hard pasty 'stuff' they serve at other restaurants. Delicious, and just the right size for a single dessert serving. -Caramel and Toffee-Almond Ice Creams. OMG. Just order it. The Pecan Bread Pudding was more dense and chewy than it's been in the past. It lacked 'breadiness', and pecans in general. Disappointing.
(4)Jodie B.
We had dinner at Em's last night. The service was abominable, the food worse and the help uncaring. It will be the last time there. I wondered if it has changed ownership
(1)Jeffrey S.
Quaint. Quiet. Unassuming. Neighborhood spot. I've heard all of these things used in reference to Em's, and it was high time I check the place out. It's all of those things. It's the perfect picture of a Capitol Hill neighborhood eatery done right. It has an interesting building, a simple menu, a host of regulars, but it's upscale enough that you feel like you're having a night out. Picture an old brick building, meant to look old, but also contemporary and new. The art on the walls is modern, and the tables are neatly set and the servers and host alarmingly proficient. No teenage girls texting in between seating guests. No riff raff. That's what you've got. Surely you can put up with the mildly inconvenient street parking for that tradeoff? Now let's get to the food. Em's may have occasional specials, but they stick to the same menu pretty faithfully. If you're a regular, rejoice in the specials. if not, you'll be fine with one of the tried and true standbys. They're really honed these things in. Amongst the standouts (both from my belly and from those that others always seem to rave about and I got to try) are the rack of lamb and the pork chop. Lamb is so hard to do, and they give it a delicate treatment and offer some jalapeño jelly to balance out the meat flavor. And the pork chop with its maple and bacon flavors. Not, like, "Oh, look at me! I'm bacon and I'm a gimmick." But genuinely used as a flavor. I also was blown away by the sweet potato puree. I know that's supposed to be a side that they throw on, but honey, oh honey, that was sweet magic. Others rave about the phyllo goat cheese app--but I'd skip it. Go for the patee. But hold on tight for flavors in your mouth, what with the mustard and olives served alongside. It's potent. I was bracing myself for pure magic with the bread pudding. Maybe it was an off night or expectations were too high, but it didn't knock my socks off. Should you order it? Oh yes, definitely. But don't expect that it will redefine the dessert for you. What a pleasant time. Sad I had a dinner scheduled here a few years ago that got cancelled. I would have loved to have tried it sooner. They're just so quiet (chefs never compete or participate in any other restaurant thingy-events that happen all the time in SLC), but once you discover it, you'll want to join them for dinner more often.
(5)Karsten B.
I went here for lunch and from what I've heard, their dinner menu is better. My sandwich was fine, nothing to complain about, but nothing special. The chocolate habanero ice cream, however, was amazing and worth four stars alone. I do like the business model and will probably return for dinner at some point.
(4)Fae L.
Hidden little gem in the downtown neighborhood of Marmalade. Quaint little cafe with charm. The food portions are perfect. We (husband & I) didn't walk away feeling sickly full or with a gut ache. The food is fresh and perfect. Service is good as well.
(5)Ann A.
We ate there tonight. Our food total did not exceed $100 for our party of four, but our bill came to over $170. We decided this must be to an outrageous corkage fee. (one that was not listed on the menu, and that we should have asked about as we brought our own wine.) The service was terrible, to say the least. We had to call for our waitress for anything - removal of plates, refills on drinks, reminders of food, etc. Having said that, the food itself was succulent. The disappointment to us is that we probably won't be back due to the awful service, hidden pricing, and the long, long wait for the outstanding entrees. Sad.
(2)Anita C.
A fellow yelper suggested this place for brunch, and I am so glad he did. Cute little place, loved all the art. It is pretty small so it does get crowded quickly. I ordered the Smoked Salmon Benedict and it was delicious. Everything was balanced really well, and the portion size was great. The eggs were cooked perfectly, the potato pancakes were just crispy enough, and I loved the dill creme fraiche. My friend ordered the herbed crepe which was equally delicious. Want to go back and check out their dinner menu.
(4)Walter C.
Right off the bat, Amelia is a sweetheart. Always with a smile and quick with the service. A unique talent considering she is the only one working the tables. More than just a big tip, she deserves all the accolades and praise that can be given to her. The food is good, the Italian Sausage Sandwich is a winner. Desserts are the real winner here. Pecan Bread Pudding is a plus and needs to be tried. Over all this a nice place for a peaceful lunch.
(4)Charline D.
We walked through the snowstorm to have a brunch in Em's. The place is small, cosy and not noisy. Of course on Sunday everybody wants to go there so we had to wait 30 minutes but they have a little coffee house across the corridor. The food is good and not expensive at all. I will definitively come back if I' in Salt Lake City.
(5)Lloyd A.
Very nice small restaurant in a residential neighborhood with inside and patio dining. Very eclectic menu with a great variety of dishes for every taste. Friendly and attentive staff. Great desserts and expresso provided for a super finish. Absolutely a must when in Salt Lake City
(5)Jacob B.
This place was very good! The people were friendly, the patio was very enjoyable. They didn't rush us at all, they let me and my girlfriend sit back and relax. Which is what you want on a Sunday brunch! huevos rancheros was amazing!!!!!
(5)Julianne H.
I got the Dried Fruit Stuffed Pork Tenderloin with roasted potatoes in a bacon sherry vinaigrette. It was good but nothing special. I loved the restaurant atmosphere, the staff is very friendly, and I would recommend bringing people here. Even though I didn't love my entree, I was impressed by this place!
(4)Peggy C.
The service was great and the food tasty. The place sits atop a steep hill and gives you the feel of being in San Francisco The warm potatoe salad with mixed green was a delicious, it had a wonderfully light vinaigrette. Dessert, the bread pudding with bourbon pecan ice cream was absolutely amazing. It was a nice end to a lovely lunch.
(4)Kacey K.
Went to Em's on May 28th for a graduation dinner with my family. While the food was delicious the service was terrible. From the moment we walked in the door our server treated us with contempt. We ended up having to share water glasses because they weren't refilled or we simply didn't have enough glasses. Our server never followed up and checked if we needed anything after our food was delivered. When bringing back the receipts after paying she just threw them on the table and walked away without speaking a word. And that's just a few of the things that occurred last night. I don't see any reason why our group deserved to be treated this way, but it put a damper on an evening of celebration.
(3)Cameron C.
An absolute gem. Tucked away in a residential neighborhood up by the Capitol, I'm very glad it was recommended to me because I don't think I would have ever found it on my own. This definitely will be added to my SLC dining rotation. Garden patio was very quaint, perfect for a summer evening meal. Service was very friendly and unobtrusive. Started with the tuna on cucumber and the tomato/mozzarella/prosciutto appetizers, both light and fresh and very tasty. Was surprised by a course of complimentary salads for our table. Then went on to the main course of pinenut and goat cheese stuffed chicken w/ veggies and mashed potatoes, which (although I hardly ever order chicken when dining out) was a great call. Also tasted the halibut, which was very nice. There were so many other things on the menu that looked exceptional, I'm definitely going to need to come back soon to further round out my perception of this place -- but great first time around.
(5)Nate S.
Em's could easily be the winner of a "Design Your Neighborhood Restaurant" contest. And, since I just moved into the neighborhood, I am also a winner. Lovely place for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
(5)Laurence B.
Returned to Em's Restaurant last night for the first time in years. It is still a great cozy spot for having dinner with friends. I had the potato lasagna, which was a hit. Molten chocolate cake lacked an oozing center, which I would call a miss. So this recent visit was much like those I remember: Em's is a really good place to get a decent meal but always is lacking something to keep it from being great.
(4)Lindsay K.
The tomato appetizer special was amazing. It was topped with a pesto sauce, balsamic reduction, prosciutto, and delicious creamy mozzarella. I had the salmon dish for my entree. It too was delicious, well cooked. It was on a bed of creamy cabbage, and while also good, was a bit too creamy for my taste. Overall the food was great, but a bit overpriced. The service was a bit slow, which I would have minded if I hadn't been enjoying my companion and our conversation.
(4)Mike G.
We had been looking for a nice, quaint restaurant with quality food to remind us of something you would find in our home town of Chi-town. Sorry, my "better half" made me say that. Anyway, yelp helped us stumble upon this little gem and we checked it out last Thursday night. The place was not packed but I chalk that up to it being Halloween night. The ambiance was fantastic, low lighting, not loud, soft music in the background and a quiet staff. We started with two appetizers. One being a flat bread that was pretty good and the other being scallops. The scallops were very good as well. Our dinners were actually fantastic but we felt they were a little over priced. My wife ordered butternut squash ravioli with a browned butter sage sauce. I think hers was a little over priced for the quantity. I ordered the pork chops with mashed potatoes. All in all, the food was above average. We ended with a vanilla bean cake with raspberry sauce. The cake was a tad dry to be honest but had good flavor. I ordered the bourbon pecan ice cream. It was absolutely amazing. With that we ordered tea and coffee. All in all, we left pleased. The service was very good, food very good, pricing was decent and entire experience above average. One of the better restaurants we have eaten at in Utah.
(4)Shane K.
We LOVE Em's... We just moved to the downtown area and have been meaning to try Em's for months. Finally tried it and it will be our new regular spot! The location is super cool - kind of hidden away by the capital building. Love the simple feel and design of the restaurant and the food is off the hook.
(5)Pooja P.
My friend has talked about Em's several times and I was excited to try out her favorite brunch place in SLC. We arrived to a mostly empty restaurant and were told that the tables were unavailable due to reservations and other people waiting. About 20 minutes later we were the first ones to be seated- it seemed that it was easier for the waitress to deal with her current customers rather than add new ones. My friend ordered the corned beef hash with a tea and I ordered the huevos rancheros. When the food arrived and my friend asked why she didn't get the toast that was on the menu, the waitress said that she never gives the toast without someone asking for it, however she didn't make that clear when we were ordering. My friend then ordered the toast, which she never received. Her tea did not arrive until the end of the meal, and was the wrong flavor, and we didn't get any water refills. The entire time the waitress apologized that it's this busy every week and that there wasn't anything she could do about it. We left brunch sorely disappointed by the service and it went from being my friend's favorite brunch spot to one she and I will not return to unless they hire more help and train their wait staff better. It's too bad because the only reason Em's gets 2 stars is that my huevos rancheros were delicious.
(2)Tiana G.
Nicest waitress on the entire planet. Most delicious Benedict on the entire planet.
(5)Steve K.
Very good food, fairly reasonably priced and they take a reservation! Their butter is some of the best butter I've had. You almost keep asking for more bread and butter because the butter is so good. The salad's are great as are the appetizers. Most of the entrees are also very good. Considering the reasonable price, very good food and nice atmosphere, I recommend this place.
(4)Nathan I.
Brunch is very underwhelming. Ordered the two eggs and bacon with potatoes (easiest thing in the world to make). Waited over 45 minutes and waitress came once to fill up drinks. There was nobody else in the restaurant either, so why it took so long is a bit confusing. They said they were overwhelmed at this time of day. Once I got the food, it was under portioned, dry, plain, and unseasoned. The bacon was the only reason for 2 stars rather than one as it was thicker than a regular McDonalds slice. The waitress seemed nice though. Would not recommend if you're looking for brunch and are hungry because you WILL wait.
(2)Andrea C.
I've been here twice,in one month, and I have been extremely satisfied each time. The servers are great as well. It's a must if you are new to the area or just visiting!
(5)Nicholas T.
These guys are awesome!!! We brought our Dog "Lucy" with us and they treated her as if she was a customer. If you are looking for amazing food amazing environment and a place that caters to dogs.. This is the place. They make you feel like this is your own personal restaurant. Keep up the great work guys.. You are our new favorite spot!
(5)Bryan C.
Really cute set up. Service was good, a bit slow but that's because it was kinda packed. The house salad was really good. We had the tamales for appetizer, kinda small so not good for sharing. I had the lamb which was excuisite but the portion was very small, I was still a bit hungry afterwards. My wife had the pork chop, she loved it and the portion was very decent. We had raspberry crème broulle for desert which was absolutely fantastic. Overall our experience was satisfying . we would recommend this place, it is worth the try .
(4)Denise L.
I love this place. Though it is definitely expensive, despite the $$ yelp rating. The atmosphere is very nice. Quiet, clean, and nice outdoor seating underneath an grape-vined awning. Our waiter, Seth, was very helpful and gave us lots of information on the menu and drinks. Appetizers: we had 2 specials: the scallops with corn were absolutely fantastic and definitely the best thing we ate. We also had the proscuitto wrapped figs that were stuffed with goat cheese. Delicious! The entress come with a house salad. House salad is only okay-lettuce drizzled with vinegar and some cheese. I had the halibut, which was very good. My husband had the rack of lamb, which is actually 3 lamb chops. It came with a tasty potato side. I look forward to returning here.
(5)patti g.
Was in Salt Lake for business with a friend who used to live there and knew about Em's. It is a hidden gem. Quite, unassuming but with a great vibe. Food and service both amazing. What a great place to go hang out with friends and be able to have great conversation over great food. Can't wait to go back.
(5)Victoria H.
Em's on a weeknight is just as great as any busy weekend. Last night we stopped in with a couple of friends. Between the 4 of us we ordered the scallops, lamb patties and dates for appetizers. The dates were (surprisingly) the group's favorite. For entrees we ordered the marinated pork chop, a duck breast special, beef tenderloin and short rib. Each of us taste tested all the dishes. The runaway winner was the short rib. Yum. Em's is still on my short list of recommendations.
(4)L N.
Cute boutique type environment below the Capitol I think has some great potential, however, it starts with the people completely unfriendly besides the barista he was great! Jeff the first team member that greeted us 1. Wrote the wrong name down 2. Gave away our table 3. Zero personality with a lack of understanding in the hospitality industry after Jeff we had another team member who wasn't wearing a name tag and threw our waters on the table and never had the option to order something to drink besides the coffee I brought from the coffee lounge. Well were ready to order and immediately we're told they're out of Rolls, Corn Beef Hash, and crepes. Yet another management issue. If you don't like the service industry get out! I wouldn't recommend this staff to the local McDonald's!
(1)Rich T.
Habanero ice cream might be good but on this Sunday morning they are glacially slow in serving so be warned. They do about 10 plates every 30 minutes so make sure u count so u can estimate the wait. Nice spot I think. The food was pretty good, but just beware of the wait.
(3)Suzanne F.
This restaurant is a little jewel, tucked in a neighborhood of houses and condos. The food was outstanding, service really friendly and attentive. We had people in our group with food allergies, and the waitress was extremely knowledgeable about the ingredients. Scallops appetizer was fresh, perfectly prepared and delicious. The duck breast with sweet potato purée was so luscious I wanted to lick the plate! If you are in SLC, don't miss this place!
(5)Stephanie B.
I must agree with the reviewer below. If I could design my perfect neighborhood restaurant, this would be it. It's not far for us to go fortunately because we will be back often! First of all Em's have strange hours. The waitress is the one that told us this so to make sure we always call and make a reservation (which I LOVE to do) so that we always know it's open. She said they do a lot of weddings and private parties. The place is CUTE! It's an old, charming building and the patio (in season) looks to be adorable! The service was great and our food was incredible. I wish they had some different options on the appetizer side of things, but in the end I opted for just an entree. The table had steaks and also the tuna. All meals were excellent. I had the filet and it was perfect. The wine list was great and not too pricy. I can't wait to go again!
(5)Jean W.
In anticipation of a Sunday morning crowd, our party of five secured a patio reservation. GPS got us to Main Street - not one of us was familiar with this area just west of the Capitol. Em's is a little hard to detect tucked away in its residential neighborhood. Walking up, the surrounding area is wooded and beautiful. The interior was interesting and cozy, and no detectable crowd had yet gathered. We were greeted and promptly seated at our umbrella-outfitted table in the sun. The south patio is partially shaded by a beautiful wood trellis proudly displaying prolific real grapevines; many other interesting plants adorn the perimeter. It was really very lovely here in the morning. The brunch menu is brief but solid, offering a few delicious sounding options. We loved that they feature a "Roll of the Day," or you can choose their everyday Cinnamon Sticky Buns. We were intrigued by a Raspberry Peach Roll looking for a home via our waiter, so we graciously offered to adopt and devour it. Divine...but a little like eating dessert first. Oh well. Bigger tragedies have occurred. Here's what we ordered - - Southwest Casserole (brunch special of the day) - Smoked Salmon Frittata - Bacon & Eggs/Ham & Eggs - Herbed Crepe with Ham & Scrambled Eggs Everyone agreed that the food was very good, even down to the toast which came with its own dollop of jam on the plate. The highlight meal was the Salmon Frittata, garnering rave reviews all around. The SW Casserole was tasty and employed well thought out flavors, but fell a bit flat for me in the spice arena. I would have loved a bit more kick here, even if it were in the form of bottled sauce. But there was no hot sauce (or ketchup, for that matter) to be found. The crepe was subtle and delicious. Most of us ordered the roasted potatoes side. They were lightly seasoned and pan-fried to crispy perfection. We each had 8 small potato pieces, which made us conclude that they must count them upon plating. They looked very lonely on the plate with so few. When they brought the coffee cups I almost told the waiter that we hadn't ordered espresso. Their cups are so tiny only 5 minutes went by before another refill was needed. They certainly weren't the worst I've seen at refills, but considering the size of the cups, they should be a lot more on top of the refill sitch. There were several 15 minute periods where all of our coffee cups were empty. Which, for a coffanatic like myself, is a big no-no; particularly as we made a point of mentioning up front that the cups were so small it was obvious that frequent refills would be a necessity. The service was very friendly and relaxed, despite what appeared to be an eventual full house. But delivery of the food was very slow. We waited 30 minutes after ordering before they began to bring it out. It's good we had beautiful surroundings to take our minds off the delay. There was never much recognition from our server that two of us never received the orange juice ordered, which was only ordered because they didn't deliver the hot chocolate they eventually discovered they were out of. We were happy to note that at least the bill didn't reflect a charge for either. We had a very relaxing morning at Em's, with great food and lovely atmosphere. We were busy chatting, and must have spent an additional 30 minutes at our table after the bill was paid and plates were cleared. But we never felt rushed or abandoned at any point. Prices were very reasonable with most brunch entrees coming in under $10. Our total bill was surprisingly affordable. The few relatively minor hiccups we encountered brought our experience from a 5-star to a 4-star, but it was still a worthy meal, with no major complaints. We look forward to eventually revisiting Em's to try out the dinner menu.
(4)Camille C.
Tucked away gem on Capitol Hill. We've been here many times--it's one of our local favorites. Our service has always been friendly and prompt. The specials are always good, and a new appetizer choice is a cheese stuffed portabello mushroom that was large enough to share. Yum. The fish dish is usually to die for and the halibut was no exception. I opted for the house mashed potatoes instead of jasmine rice. If you can get the potatoes with your dish I highly recommend them. The butter.... Sometimes they are surprisingly busy here so I recommend resies just so you get a table.
(4)Linda T.
Waitstaff had no idea what they were doing! Bad training. Not attentive and very poor etiquette. The meal was just okay. I expect more out of Em's and have gotten it in the past. I hope someone picks up the ball because I love this little neighborhood restaurant.
(2)M. F.
Read the reviews from others first, and found a mixed bag. Noticed that there are not too many 2014 reviews, which means that word has finally got out that EM's is not amazing. We have been there three times, each time I wondered why we had given Em's another chance? Food is tasteless, no matter how fancy the menu is, if the food is tasteless it's not worth a dime.
(2)Kelly G.
I've thrown a few dinner parties in the private room, and its always fantastic. Em's is a little further from downtown, which is great as you don't run into the same crowds. The service is always fantastic, and the menu is inventive and fresh. Make a reservation, and go immediately. Excellent!
(5)Lexi S.
About 2 weeks ago, I decided to give Em's a try for a nice, quiet dinner. What a fantastic decision. This particular evening caused Em's to take a leap into my top 5 dinner spots in Salt Lake. I should have reviewed sooner, but I have been remiss. Our evening was perfect, from the dim lighting and ambiance, to the service and most importantly, the food. The bread and butter, perfect! This says a lot about a restaurant and Em's started us out on the right foot.We ordered the lentil soup, dates, and scallop appetizer. Everything came out beatuifully. We mentioned to our server that we were in no rush and wanted to take our time. His pacing was right on. The scallop appetizer was the winner for our starters but the others were still lovely puntuation marks. For entrees, we had filet and the marinated pork. Simplistic dishes in that you have a protein, potatoe and veggie on each plate, but elevated in many ways. The saucing on each plate was unique and complimented the particular protein in a way that made our palates intrigued with each bite. The potatoes were creamy and delicious and the asparagas and carrot sides were executed really well. Not an afterthought here. Everything combined on our plates in harmony. I am ready to head back for the next culinary symphony.
(5)Quin H.
Foot was fine, but they are drunk on their own amazingness. The staff don't know how to keep thing organized, the much touted cinnamon roll was cold and the service was extremely slow. There are far better places to over-pay for Sunday breakfast.
(2)Alison G.
One of the best meals we've ever had in a restaurant. Love the seasonal menu. LOVED the bread pudding. Loved the scallops and salmon and butternut soup and gnocchi. everything was amazing. Very relaxing and romantic atmosphere. Nice and quiet. Wonderful music. Excellent service.
(5)AM F.
Out-of-town visit for skiing, and we found a great spot, as always with Yelp! Delicious, wholesome, handmade and relaxing. A true gem in a wonderful state.
(5)Janean P.
I've had some good meals at Em's and when I realized they had a patio and served Sunday brunch, it didn't take long for me to invite some friends and go try it out. This time, however, things didn't go as smoothly as they have in the past. I decided to live tweet my experience. 12:05: We arrived just 5 minutes after our reserved time. 12:10 Some creative umbrella placement allowed my group not to be broiled alive on the sunny patio. 12:20 Waitress apologized for being 'frazzled' and took our order. I was disappointed to learn that they were out of crepes. 12:57 Decided to take a photo and tweeted "Em's patio is not as shady as I'd like." Someone at the table finally grabbed a waiter and asked if they could get a 2nd round of mimosas only to be told that the restaurant had run out of champagne. We all drank water. 1:21 Tweeted: "You know you've been waiting too long when someone decides to put ice on the centerpieces." The little plants in their pots were completely dry and one looked like it was dying. We might not have noticed if we'd had food in front of us. 1:24 Tweeted: "You know you've been waiting too long when you have to move the umbrella with the sun." AND it was getting really hot. 1:25 Tweeted: "You know you've been waiting too long when everyone pulls out their phone to play Words." As food continued not to arrive, phones came out in the place of plates. There's no such thing as boredom in the 21st century. 1:29: Tweeted: "Finally. $10 worth of smoked salmon benedict which took an hour and a half to come." The table fell silent as all 7 of us wolfed down our food. What took 1 1/2 hours to prepare, took about 5 minutes to consume. A bus boy explained that the kitchen had gotten slammed which delayed our orders but we left wondering why ours were the only orders affected. We'd watched people arrive after us and get their food at reasonable times. We were the last to leave the restaurant that afternoon.
(3)Kelly S.
Tried Em's this morning for breakfast. For a Sunday morning, it was nice and quiet. Didn't have to wait for a table at all. Service was very friendly and efficient, and the atmosphere was perfect for a blustery Sunday am--casual but nice...if that makes sense., Food was tasty! I had the smoked salmon Benedict and the husband had huevos rancheros. Both were very good. I'm only giving Em's 4 stars because it was our first time there, but we will most certainly be back for both breakfast and dinner.
(4)Elaine H.
What a perfect little neighborhood bistro. My husband and I loved this little place hidden on the hills of SLC! The crowd looked sophisticated, but not snobby. We felt very under dressed in our jeans and tshirts, but we were welcomed by a gracious host, and seated immediately. As the night wore on, the place got more and more romantic, and the food just got better and better. The short ribs were some of the best that I have ever had. This place is unassuming, cozy, and I cannot wait to stop in for brunch!
(5)Jowanza J.
For the price you are going to get very well crafted food and an even better experience. The service is great and they are willing to make any accommodations you would like. It's also a great place for the vegetarians and vegans out there.
(5)Christina B.
What holds this place back is its lack of experienced service. We were told a few minutes wait, but then waited roughly thirty minutes while empty tables sat unused. It was a Sunday at brunch, so we expected a wait, but not with empty tables. After seeing other reviews I wonder if part of the staff didn't show again, leading me to wonder if there will ever be consistent service at this eatery. We were seated at the same time as a group that came considerably later than we did. The server waited the latter table first and they ordered the last of the cinnamon rolls, leaving us canceling our order. Our server was forced to cover the other waitress who was clearly less competent, resulting in slower service. Once the food came, even more disappointment. Huevos rancheros with no sign of salsa. Side of potatoes that amounted to two bites. A special that was not so special : strata that was dominantly bread and very little chicken. Everything was just a little bland and needed seasoning. My whole party thought perhaps we were on a candid camera show. Overall just not impressed.
(2)Amanda V.
I came to this lovely Capitol Hill restaurant for lunch with friends, and the whole experience was a delight. Em's blends right in to the neighborhood. In fact, I lived a couple blocks away for a year and never knew it existed. The building is a classic brick charmer with big, big windows in the front. It has a nice patio on the side for dining al fresco in nice weather. My party ordered four entrees, including the herb crepe and tamales, and they were all wonderful. The flavors were strong and delicious - no extra salt needed, hooray! The cheese-filled tamales with black beans were seriously to-die-for. Good potion sizes, too. We each ordered an entree and left very satisfied. I will say the service was a little slow. The food came out quickly enough, but the server took a long time to get us checked out (she blamed the lunch rush, but why was there only one server at lunch?). But honestly, Em's is such a pleasant place to be, I delay. While I might not go here when I'm in a rush, for a leisurely meal spent catching up with friends, it's perfect.
(4)Jessica T.
Went there on a Sunday night when a lot of places in SLC are closed. Neither my dining companion or I were overly impressed. The food was okay, but not of the caliber I expected after reading Yelp. I had the fig appetizer and the halibut entree, and my companion had the corn & poblano soup and the spinach ravioli. None of these were above average. Friendly service and pleasant ambiance, but good (not great) food.
(3)Ashlee M.
The bread pudding!
(5)Taige E.
Always great food and atmosphere.
(5)Alan M.
A pleasant restaurant in a charming location. The food was generally good, but very uneven. While I enjoyed most dishes, a couple were sub par, including one that was so laughably bad that I actually laughed. Overall, I wouldn't mind giving it another try.
(3)Sam V.
After a not-so-subtle hint, wink, and a nudge to my boyfriend one day saying that I wanted to try Em's, he ended up "surprising" me with going to Em's this past date night. I will admit it, I made an overly excited squeal noise when I found out he made reservations, which, for a Friday night, I would highly recommend you do as well. The place was a little difficult to find, and parking can be a bit difficult if you don't know what you're doing (we ended up parking the street over before we saw they had a lot), but we eventually finally found our way to our destination. I really liked the feel of the space, albeit a little tight and cozy, and tad on the modern side. As far food goes, we ordered the phyllo dough wrapped goat cheese with duck confit, a special of the night, the butternut squash ravioli in a brown butter sage sauce (very popular these days), the free range chicken stuffed with goat cheese and pine nuts over mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, and the pecan bread pudding with caramel sauce and ice cream. Everything was delicious, including the unexpected salads, bread & butter. I thought all of the dishes were executed well, I just wasn't a big fan of the texture of the duck confit appetizer, and the ravioli was good, not great. I would have to say the biggest winner of the night was the bread pudding. Like Joshua S., I think this is one of the best bread puddings I've had in my life. I'm just sad that we opted to share it instead of getting one each.
(4)Bud H.
Quaint little place. Reminds me of something in San Francisco. Some of the best short ribs around. Very, very tasty. So tasty, in fact, that I have a hard time ordering anything else.
(4)Michelle T.
I loved this place! I had a wonderful brunch there. Self-service tea and coffee is the best. Fantastic food, really good value and the decor/ambiance is perfect. I would go back many times if I lived in SLC.
(5)BykeRyde R.
Cute little place, friendly service. Only went for breakfast, I ordered the herbed crepes stuffed w eggs, my friend ordered the huevos rancheros. Food was more than decent, not quite a 5. I certainly appreciate that they have a waiting area with serve-yourself coffee...it's thoughtful and definitely helps the waiting go by faster !
(4)Rae G.
Tucked away in a charming neighborhood, this local gem is not to be missed. I went on a Sunday morning and showed up right as they were opening, there were no lines and ample parking. The ambiance is charming and our server Chris was attentive and provided speedy service. I had the herbed crepes, they were fantastic with the fried apples (which are much healthier tasting than they sound). The prices were very reasonable and the coffee is self serve so you never have to wait for a warm up. The only caveat is that I didn't think the coffee was that great, but that isn't a deal breaker for me.
(5)Jeb A.
Consistently my favorite restaurant in SLC. I absolutely love the consistently inspired seasonal menu, the friendly helpful but not overly attentive staff, and the great balance of casual/formal atmosphere which avoids the pitfall of many of SLCs other gourmet eateries - that being a superiority complex of being a fine dining establishment in a small market. Em's delivers delicious fare without haughty hubris. The only reasons I don't give em's five stars are: - the self-service coffee at brunch; the thermoses tend to run out quickly and it takes away from the luxury of full service, - on especially cold nights tables near the front door and windows are at the mercy of chilly drafts. I will always send discerning food lovers to em's.
(4)Jamie J.
"Em, I thought you would be a Gem. But after my meal, my joy dropped: like a seed from a stem. OH Em, maybe there will be another opportunity for us to meet again." Now that I am done with my poem - I would like to start with recognizing my own bias. I Yelped (duh) Em's before I came and really had my expectations up to the ceiling. Being from Seattle, I'm not up on SLC's food game. So, maybe my expectations were too high or, maybe Yelp lost this battle - that's a first. Everything here is great, except for the food. The menu sounds great, but that's only half the battle. I ordered the goat cheese "stuffed" chicken. It really was a chicken breast with a hole on the top, covered in grainy cheese, and served with a side of overcooked, chewy, asparagus. Also served with mashed potatoes that were just ok. I have to be real here, I was almost offended at how dry my chicken was. I really don't appreciate saw dust like food, call me unique. But, I didn't even eat half of my plate (that's unheard of)! Let's try something else: The duck. Duck is beautiful meat when it cooked right. Redish pink in color, with visible juice and a nice crisp skin. Well, here comes the purple, almost black, duck with it's limp side of asparagus (sound familiar)? Also left on the plate. I think Em is deserving of 3 stars, I might sounds harsh, but my expectations were high, and there was just nothing more than satisfactory about any of the five dishes I tried. Please Note: The decor, ambiance, service, and overall experience here is delightful. It's quaint and intimate. Overall, Em I was a little let down. I'm a sucker for second chances when it comes to food. Maybe one day I can write a happy poem about you.
(3)Julia R.
Of all the restaurants I thought of taking my 86 year old mother to on the first night of her visit from Dallas, I unfortunately, chose Em's. Good food deserves good service, something Em's Restaurant doesn't seem to understand. We reserved a table at Em's for 7:00 pm on a Wednesday night. After 80 minutes and no entree, we left. Before deciding to leave, we asked to speak to a manager and were told there is no manager. Really? Perhaps that is the problem. Em was there, in the kitchen, but she was 'busy' and sent a message that if we had a complaint about the service, we should talk to our waiter. Em, you need a course on customer service. In addition, shortly after we were seated, a glass was broken by the door to the patio and the broken glass was never swept up as people in open sandals came in and out of the door. Em, how about a course on safety?
(1)Amanda H.
Oh me oh my. I wanted to like Ems. I really did. But alas, my dining experience was just ok...average at best. So I should have listened to Jamie J's review regarding the asparagus. I was so excited to try their herb chicken salad with asparagus. As Jamie mentioned in her review, the asparagus was so over cooked it was practically inedible. The chicken was nice tender, not dry, but it lacked in flavor. I found myself reaching for the salt shaker several times. I also had to ask for more dressing. It was a little lack luster as well. But the bleu cheese was nice and creamy. The service, while friendly, was extremely slow. We waited for more than hour after we ordered for our food. Oddly enough we saw the chef running out the back door for a few minutes and then came back in with a brown paper bag that had a container of the leafy greens in it...I am sure they were the same greens that ended up on my plate. Where did he keep them? In his trunk?? Weird. The waitress did offer the table a complimentary dessert to make up for the long wait. She brought out a bread pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Both were delish. Not sure if I'd go back again or not. We'll see... PS They don't split checks, so be prepared with cash if you're paying separately.
(3)Christopher W.
Em's is a SLC gem hidden just west of the Capitol. This place is a hip dining hot spot that I fell in love with upon my first visit. It is very popular so call ahead and make a reservation. If you are looking for a relaxed fine dining experience, this is the place for you! The food will blow your mind. I appreciate that everything is fresh and local. Even the ice cream is made in house! They have a standard menu which is available year round along with a seasonal menu that changes frequently. The servings are small but the flavors are HUGE! During the summer months make sure to sit on the patio, it is amazing. This is my favorite place to dine in Utah. Em's has become my go to spot to take out of town visitors. When my parents visit from Phoenix we head straight to Em's from the airport because they love this place as much as I do. Things I love to eat here:* Beet Salad Goat Cheese Salad Halibut (It was a summer special) Artichoke Appetizer (also a special, but I dream of this tasty delight) Potato Lasagna Homemade Habanero Ice cream (will burn your mouth and blow your mind) *I have never hated anything I have eaten here.
(5)Robert R.
Went last night for a rehearsal dinner. The location and decoration are good. The potato lasagna was dry. The creme brulee was also dry.
(2)becky r.
love it love it love it!! Not pretentious, well priced, tasteful menu, and friendly service. Oh and great location in the Marmalade district of downtown Salt Lake City near the Capital. Plus they have a covered patio. Everything I've tried there I've enjoyed from the house salad with fresh parmesan, to the asparagus soup, and turkey sandwich. Don't forget dessert also. This place is a must try for sure!
(5)Anne W.
Feeling a little Spring in my step (I'm must be delusional from the missing hour of sleep), I went to Em's on a whim for brunch. The space is nice and bright. It's small, but not crowded. There is enough room between tables that you aren't bumping your chair back into anybody and throwing off their dining grove. There are also fresh flowers on the table, which I thought was a nice touch. Really, my favorite part was how nice and sunny and open the place felt. The waitress was nice, but quiet. I think she tried to be as invisible as possible, which I would appreciate if I had a dining companion with me, but I didn't. She was invisible to the point that I didn't get my drink refiled (BAD) and I did have to wait awhile for my food. I didn't mind waiting for my food. I'm Italian and used to waiting for my meals, especially if it means they will be tasty. But, I don't like cold drinks when they aren't supposed to be cold. Refresh my beverage, please. I ordered the Herbed Crepe. Very good and worth the wait. It was stuffed full of eggs, Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, ham and red peppers. The eggs were cooked through (I hate slimy eggs!) and the flavors were nicely balanced. The crepe was just the right amount of crispy, not soggy like a nasty Village Inn crepe. Everything tasted fresh. Overall, a great little place. Great atmosphere and great food. I will definitely try it again to see if I just hit the waitress on a bad day.
(3)Brooke C.
Had a phenomenal lunch here with my mom the other day. We shared the scrumptious potato pancakes and each had a delicious herbed crepe, accompanied by a crisp Pinot Grigio. I plan to return whenever I'm in Salt Lake.
(5)Shauna M.
Great location. Very quaint. De Service was terrific. Food selection was amazing. Presentation divine. Taste was over the top delicious!!
(5)Catherine A.
It seems I have had the opposite experience of some users. I had excellent service and only mediocre food. I had a turkey sandwich on sourdough bread. It was pretty bland. Kinda wish I had tried something else.
(3)Jana A.
Been eating here for years and it's my favorite restaurant in all of Salt Lake. We had our wedding rehearsal dinner here and have celebrated nearly every special occasion from birthdays to promotions to anniversaries here. We love the wait staff and have tried nearly everything on the menu. I certainly have my favorites and some items I think should be changed, but overall we love it. It's right in our neighborhood and Emily the owner lives nearby. It's so nice to support a delicious establishment right in our neighborhood.
(5)Kiesha J.
Hip lil spot near the Capitol. I tried Em's with a group of friends last summer and fell in love with it. It's a little restaurant, but what it lacks in space it makes up for in charm. Awesome art work, fresh flowers on every table, great music and even better food. We started with a stuffed artichoke as an appetizer. I have been back a handful of times and haven't seen this on the menu since that first time. I keep coming back in hopes of seeing it again. It was that good. It was stuffed with a mayo based sauce and bacon. Umm how can you beat bacon/mayo/artichoke? My entree was rack of lamb served with potatoes, shallot custard & jalapeno jelly. It was amazing. Melt in your mouth amazing. We finished with a hot brownie topped with habanero chocolate icecream. To die for. I've since been back a handful of times and have yet to have a bad or even ok meal. Love this place. In fact I even moved 3 houses down from Em's in hopes of seeing that stuffed artichoke on the menu again. I kid, but having Em's next door has changed my life.
(5)Jason C.
Em's is one of my favorite restaurants in Salt Lake City. Every time I go there, I am blown away with the quality of the food and the taste. For a few weeks out of the year, Em serves a sweet corn that is impeccable. I only wish it was available all the time. The meat dishes, fish dishes, and vegetables are all delicious and their wine selection was impressive. Delicious!!
(5)John N.
Painfully slow describe EM's in a nutshell. Nutshell describes portion sizes. First, parking is on the street, and if the restaurant is busy, you'll get a little walking exercise. After arriving we were seated quickly, but after 20 minutes the waiter finally acknowledged us and asked if we were ready to order. Really, ready to order? After ordering it took another 20 minutes to get our house salads and prison ration piece of bread. The house salad consists of a few pieces of salad, which makes Costco samples seem like a feast. 30 minutes later came our entries, which were good--good and small. We left hungry and thirsty, since after being served the waiter did not come back once. I resorted to drinking my wife's water since I ran out and never had a refill. 20 more minutes to get a bill--couldn't wait to get out. Overall, a real European dining experience--slow, unfriendly service and portion sizes meant for a French poodle. I went straight home and fixed myself some dinner. This place has shamefully poor service, prison ration servings and a dry well. Avoid!
(1)Christine N.
Truly as good as it gets. My husband and I have been several times and have been newly impressed each time. Food is fresh and creative, always beautiful. Menu is eclectic, my favorite are the starters, we order one of each. Vegetarian lasagna on the dinner menu was our favorite in the fall. Not sure if it's always on the menu as Em's uses local produce. Price is very reasonable, lunch menu even more so. Can't say enough about Em's!
(5)Hannah G.
Vegetarian Diners: This eclectic little restaurant in Salt Lake City, Nevada offers exciting new flavors and a place to eat on Sundays when most businesses and restaurants are otherwise closed. AMBIANCE: Em's is located in a neighborhood setting and could easily be overlooked. Once you're inside, however, you enter a spacious abode with pleasant music and an assortment of eclectic art pieces on the walls. Everything about the restaurant screams cool, clean, crisp and hip. MENU: The menu is not designed to cater to vegetarians, but it does include an appealing selection of salads and features at least one vegetarian entrée. You may also be lucky enough to stop by for a visit when a vegetarian friendly entrée is one of their daily specials. FOOD: It's been almost a year since I ate at Em's (long before I had the idea to share wonderful food with my vegetarian friends and readers), so I cannot recall the salad and entrée that I ordered. I do, however, remember my palate being tantalized by every bite. All of the food at Em's is made with local, organic products which means that the creative menu items are even more delicious with the potent flavors that only locally grown foods can offer. I do remember ordering dessert: The chocolate chunk brownie with homemade ice cream. It was divine. SERVICE: The service at this restaurant was mediocre. It wasn't great and it wasn't terrible. We did arrive at the door about fifteen minutes before the restaurant would be open for dinner, but they were nice enough to let us in. We were tired and hungry (and I was thoroughly ticked that everything in Salt Lake City was closed), so we may not have exuded our most bubbly personalities either. Or, our early arrival may have caught the server off guard who likely expected fifteen more minutes to get his mind in the work zone. Either way, we received our food in a timely manner and our drinks were never empty, but there was a definite lack of spark in the service. PRICE: Expect to spend a little bit more at Em's Restaurant, but know that you're paying for fresh ingredients and delectable food. Most entrees are around $20.00 per person and a starter or salad is $5.00 to $9.00. The only reason I can't give Em's five beets is because their menu is very limited for vegetarians. Em's has different hours on different days of the week, and during our visit it filled up relatively quickly. I would recommend checking out the menu and calling ahead of time to ensure that a palatable vegetarian meal is available and that they will be open when you plan to dine at their wonderful restaurant.
(3)Michael M.
I love this place. the food is special, the environment is lovely. I can't get enough of it. I regularly go in for dinner (haven't tried brunch). Hands down the best meal i've had in salt lake in the last year. I always enjoy the food. I'm reading the reviews here and there are gripes about salt and what not. I really have to disagree - the food seemed to be always seasoned to perfection when I've eaten there (6-8 times so far). I do know that they keep fresh ingredients. It's not a big chain so they do occasionally run out of items - but with an extensive menu for the size of the restaurant & kitchen, you're bound to find something else you will love. I've worked in about 12 restaurants myself (NY, LA, SLC) and believe that this is truly a great spot. Be sure to make your reservation ahead of time. It's not always easy getting in! They are obviously doing something right! #1 Favorite restaurant in SLC
(5)Jenni S.
We arrived between noon and 1pm on Sunday for brunch and there was no wait. Sweet! They do have bloody marys and mimosas. The coffee was self serve, which was an interesting concept. No waiting for the server to fill your cup, just head up to the bar whenever. We had a sticky bun and the roll of the day (maple bacon) and they were pretty good. Slathered in very sweet glaze. I enjoyed my frittata, paired with the fried apples. Husband ordered the special which was a strata (bread pudding) with chicken and swiss cheese and he paired his with the potatoes. We were both satisfied. The bill was slightly spendy, about $40 for the two of us, only one alcoholic beverage, but we did splurge on the sweet rolls. Our server was "cute as a button" and did a great job. Loved the neighborhood which we aren't really familiar with. It was fun to check it out.
(4)Aaron J.
After a friend turned us on to this out-of-the-way restaurant we were excited to try what we heard so much about. We like to support the local small businesses so we really wanted to like Em's. We ate lunch and the food was so-so and the service left much to be desired. The place wasn't busy, so after a slow-motion server and a kitchen that shared this same characteristic we had too much time to think about how the food was, well, just okay. I think it deserves another shot. Maybe dinner next time.
(2)Leah B.
The holidays took us back to Salt Lake City and for New Years Eve we made reservations at Em's. We had previously eaten at Em's before moving to Denver, but not in several years. The prices looked good, and we had really enjoyed the atmosphere in the past. Again, the atmosphere was wonderful and warm. The restaurant is small enough that each room feels intimate, but with enough ambient sound to make it friendly. But the atmosphere was really the only impressive part of the meal. There was no bartender so our waiter needed to mix drinks and he did not know how to make several beverages ordered by people in our party. We also brought several bottles of wine and the corkage fee was $15/bottle--pretty expensive for Salt Lake City. On to the menu. There were two separate menus. FULL menus. The regular menu and the specials menu were quite extensive. In a restaurant as small as Em's a menu that extensive is troublesome because you know that the dishes were not as carefully thought out. The chef went for quantity over quality. For example, every dish had the same side--an unimpressive brown-butter sautee of green beans and carrots. I ordered a lamb chop dish with a mint jelly. While the meat was tastily prepared the mint jelly was clearly spooned from a jar and haphazardly slapped on the plate. The dish had no harmony. Taylor ordered a beef filet with mashed potatoes. The cut was not very good and was, overall, forgettable. However, we each had a frisee salad which was tasty. I hate to pan a restaurant like Em's because it is in a great neighborhood and the atmosphere is delightful. Furthermore, it is a small independently owned fine dining restaurant in a city full of cheap family restaurants and chains. However, the chef would do well to focus on several small dishes
(3)Keith R.
This casual yet classy neighborhood place is a delightful find just 5 minutes drive from the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square. This is far and away one of the best restaurants in Salt Lake City and food is right up there with the best neighborhood places in the Bay Area. There were at least 3 appetizers competing directly for my attention and the entrees did not disappoint either - especially the meat dishes. Dessert was also truly stellar - I loved the chocolate ice cream flavored with Habanero pepper. It was the first time I had spicy ice cream and I'm already trying to figure out how I can get back to Utah for a second helping. The staff was friendly and helpful without being over-solicitous. The building is historical and charming much like the surrounding area. I highly recommend Em's and look forward to my next visit.
(4)Nick J.
From simple side-dishes to some of the more creative brunch dishes, this easily became one of my favorite Sunday brunch spots. The herbed crepe was packed full and delicious. Homemade sticky buns that are not too-sticky, but perfectly sweet and enormous. Very comfortable patio.
(4)Andrew P.
I have eaten sunday brunch at Em's twice now and my conclusion is that they are inconsistent. Today we were told that they had ran out of two of the menu items. Furthermore, when our meals did arrive they were not what we ordered. The first time that we went to Em's it was a good experience. However, my feeling today is that I don't want to go back to Em's ever again because I can't be sure what kind of experience I will have there. I really want to like Em's because it is in my neighborhood, but I don't think that I can.
(2)Picabo L.
This place may serve a great Sunday brunch, but we wouldn't know since we arrived mid morning were told that they stopped serving food despite being open until 1:00pm. There was no shortage of open tables and the waitstaff was downright unapologetic and rude.
(1)Todd S.
The roasted zucchini was great. Cool and chill place. Great value for the money for lunch.
(4)Cori L.
The food was delicious (think soups, salads and sandwiches) & the atmosphere was quaint & cozy! I'll be back :) Check their hours before you head over though, they have a slightly strange schedule.
(5)Bryton B.
Went to Em's for the first time today for brunch. I didn't really plan on it so I waited until about 10 minutes before 1 o'clock, not knowing that, that was is when they stop serving. My server was very nice and still sat me, gladly offering me to start with some coffee. I ended up choosing the Salmon eggs Bennidict and a Mimosa. The chef also came out and asked how my meal was. It was all quite delicous, and with the excellent service I received I will absolutely be returning to Em's for lunch and/or dinner! Thanks to my friend Tim for the reccomendation....and Ooooooh look, Fancy is a fan too! ;-)
(4)Adam D.
As someone who used to take out-of-town guests to Em's as an example of good, regional cuisine in a comfortable, unpretentious setting, I have to say that the last few times (fall 2008) have seen a drop off in quality to the point that I'll take folks somewhere else. The offerings (which seems to have been the exact same for the past three years) are fairly flavorful--particularly the maple barbecue pork chop--but the meat can be a little tough. If you have room for dessert, go for the chocolate habanero ice cream, which was unavailable the last time we were there :-( That said, the outdoor patio is great for summer eating, the location near the Capitol gives a great view, and it has an overall nice atmosphere with attentive wait staff, so if you don't mind average food, you will enjoy yourself.
(3)Raquelito M.
I was definitely skeptical about this place, given the limited lunch menu. I as prepare to be sorely disappointed, and only found myself raving how delicious the food was after the first bite! I had my toddler in tow, and the restaurant was extremely accomodating (tot wanted mashed potatoes, which Em's uses in their potato pancakes & lox; I asked for a side of potatoes, not fried, and they brought me a bowl). I will definitely make another trip there.
(5)Peter F.
Unbelievable find in the Marmalade. Upscale bistro with balanced and appealing menu. Table linens and terrific service. But wear your jeans and boots. It doesn't get better than this.
(5)Davin K.
Driving by, never knowing what days they were open, seeing the cars that lined the streets of the Bev Hills side of town, always was curious and finally one Sunday morning it was a nice walk around the hill, and coffee was needed. At least that and maybe a danish shouldn't be too expensive. But we were surprised, delectable sounding breakfasts for under ten bucks. The pancakes were huge an fluffy.. the Huevos Rancheros was divine, I'd be proud to make it like that at home. The coffee kept flowing and the server was quick, even with a full patio to deal with. This is on the list of regulars now, I think.
(4)Richard S.
Em's gets coveted 5 stars because its hip. Its small, on capitol hill, Roy Lichtenstein prints and other great art work is posted, the food is local, the menu is creative......no more needs to be said.
(5)Robin F.
Love Em's. Especially Sunday brunch on the patio.
(5)Tom N.
Neighborhood gem - nothing has blown me away but I would be stoked to have this place in my neighborhood.
(3)David S.
A nice spare little dining room and a lovely outdoor seating area when the weather is neither too hot nor too cold. The menu is heavy on salads and imaginative sandwiches at lunchtime. I don't go for dinner- i found it pricey and got too little to eat.
(4)Bette K.
Unless you have an inside scoop, you would never know about this place. Luckily, we did. Em's sits on a residential street surrounded by houses. The atmosphere is cool, clean, and hip without trying too hard. All of us enjoyed our food and the service was friendly but in a laid back way. If I were to ever own a restaurant, I'd want it to be like Em's. If you get through your meal and can handle dessert, then go for either the homemade brownie or the chocolate habanero ice cream (also made in house). OMG. The only negative was that the wine list was kind of lame unless you were willing to shell out huge bucks for a bottle. Simple solution - bring your own and cough up the corkage. If we ever find ourselves back in SLC, we will definitely return to Em's. If you live here or spend a lot of time here, then we encourage you to check it our for yourself!
(4)Dave R.
This is a small, out of the way gem. Food is always good, they have a great patio in the summer, and service is always friendly. This restaurant is in the top picks for me for Salt Lake City
(4)Kyle M.
I ordered the veal ravioli and didn't love it. It was a bit pricey for what I got.
(3)Max S.
Sunday brunch here is excellent. The dining area is a bit cramped, particularly in the winter months with no outdoor seating, but brunch is still sufficiently on the DL that you can easily find parking on the street nearby.
(4)Benjamin O.
Em's provides a pleasant and relatively casual setting in a residential neighborhood. A spacious patio is cooled by a breeze and was a good choice for a warm summer evening. 4 stars for the setting. Service was attentive but not intrusive, professional and friendly. 4 stars for the service. The food was uneven. Flatbread appetizer was little more than toasted pita with some melted cheese on it. The local lamb was bland, excessively fatty, and tough in places...barely a few nibbles of edible meat on each of the three small pieces. Pork tenderloin with dried fruit was better, with the brined meat tender and juicy. Deserts were decent...good sorbets, a tasty bread pudding.... 3 stars for the food. I go to restaurants primarily for the food, and I rate Em's 3 stars on this basis. If you're not that picky and just want some standard restaurant fare in a nice setting, call it 4 stars.
(3)