AMERICAN FINE DINING
Communal Food is focused on the familiar with chef’s flair—like braised pork shoulder crusted in panko. Attention to detail makes this one of Utah’s best. 100 N. University Ave., Provo, 801-373-8000. $$ – $$$
The Tree Room Sundance Resort’s flagship is known for its seasonal, straightforward menu and memorable decor, including Robert Redford’s kachina collection. Try the wild game—spice-rubbed quail and buffalo tenderloin. Highway 92, Sundance Resort, Provo Canyon, 801-223-4200. $$$ – $$$$
AMERICAN CASUAL
The Black Sheep The cuisine here is based on the Native American dishes Chef Mark Mason enjoyed in his youth. But the fundamentals—like Navajo fry bread and the “three sisters” combo of squash, corn and beans—have been given a beautiful urban polish by this experienced chef. Don’t miss the cactus pear margarita. 19 N. University Ave, Provo, 801-607-2485. $$ – $$$
The Foundry Grill The café in Sundance Resort serves comfort food with western style—sandwiches, spit-roasted chickens and -steaks. Sunday brunch is a mammoth buffet. Sundance Resort, Provo, 801-223-4220. $$
Station 22 Ever-hipper Provo is home to some cutting-edge food now that the cutting edge has a folksy, musical saw kind of style. Station 22 is a perfect example of the Utah roots trend—a charming, funky interior, a great soundtrack and a menu with a slight Southern twang. Try the fried chicken sandwich with red cabbage on ciabatta. 22 W. Center St., Provo, 801-607-1803. $ – $$
INDIAN
Bombay House Salt Lake’s biryani mainstay has several sister restaurants worthy to call family. 463 N. University Ave., Provo, 801-373-6677; 7726 Campus View Dr., West Jordan, 801-282-0777; 2731 E. Parley’s Way, SLC, 801-581-0222. $$ – $$$
ITALIAN/PIZZA
Pizzeria 712 The pizza menu reaches heights of quality that fancier restaurants only fantasize about. Not only are the blister-crusted pizzas the epitome of their genre, but braised short ribs, local mushrooms and arugula on ciabatta are equally stellar. 320 S. State St., Orem, 801-623-6712. $$
MEXICAN
Mountain West Burrito A humble burrito place with high-flown belief in sustainably raised meats, locally sourced vegetables and community support. Result: everything you’d ever want in a burrito joint, except a beer. 1796 N. 950 West, Provo, 801-805-1870.
VEGETARIAN
Ginger’s Garden Cafe Tucked inside Dr. Christopher’s Herb Shop, Ginger’s serves truly garden-fresh, bright-flavored, mostly vegetarian dishes. 188. S. Main St., Springville, 801-489-4500. $