Utah: A Blast to the Past

PLACES TO EAT

Salt Lake City

Hard Rock Cafe
Located in the city's Trolley Square historic district, this outpost of the popular rock-and-roll chain features memorabilia from Utah's most famous rockers--the Osmond family. It also serves classic cheeseburgers and chicken fingers that are sure to please. 505 South 600 East, Salt Lake City; (801) 532-7625; Hard Rock Cafe.

Mayan
Talk about diving into dinner: at this Acapulco-themed restaurant, Mexican cliff divers entertain while you and your family scarf down tacos and enchiladas. You enter through a stone labyrinth intended to simulate the feel of entering an ancient Mayan temple; your assigned table may be on any of four levels surrounding a huge atrium that affords everyone a view of the cliffs and waterfall, which is center stage for the diving show. Before and after the show, animatronic toucans and iguanas sing, talk, and ask you how you like your burrito. The menu is pretty standard Mexican fare, with a good selection of foods for the kids. The menu has a note that says, "Any person over the age of 4 must purchase a meal." Be forewarned that the restaurant has a large gift shop, selling its trademarked characters, that can be a real kid magnet. Mayan has been a smash since it opened in the spring of 2000, and the wait for a table can be long; try to get here for lunch when it opens (at 11 a.m.) to beat the crowds. 9400 S. State St., Sandy; (801) 304-4600; Jordon Commons.

The Desert Wonderland

Bit & Spur Restaurant and Saloon
This saloon has a family feel, with an outdoor patio where even boisterous kids don't seem to bother anyone. The menu is standard Mexican fare, with burritos, enchiladas, quesadillas, and the like; there are smaller versions of the regular adult fare for youngsters. Save room for the desserts, which include brownies, peach cobbler, and creme brulee. 1212 Zion Park Blvd., Springdale; (435) 772-3498.

Jailhouse Cafe
Who says prison food isn't good? Housed in the old courthouse (the kitchen actually used to be jail cells), this spot serves breakfast all day. Kids ages 8 and under can choose from eggs, pancakes, or French toast, served with bacon, sausage, and potatoes. Older kids and their parents can get the delicious Southwestern eggs Benedict, with a spicy hollandaise sauce. 101 N. Main St., Moab; (435) 259-3900.

Zion Pizza and Noodle
Housed in a former Mormon church, this pizza joint serves up chewy pies in offbeat flavors like Southwest Burrito. Never fear, you can get basic cheese and/or pepperoni, too. Takeout and delivery are available. 868 Zion Park Blvd., Springdale; (435) 772-3815.

Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated August 2005.