Franklin Ave Cocktails & Kitchen

Located in downtown Salt Lake City, Franklin Ave Cocktails & Kitchen lives up to its name by offering a refined bar and kitchen experience in a building with serious history. Housed in the former Franklin Avenue Variety Theatre (built circa 1891), the space retains original brickwork and architectural character while delivering a modern, comfortable ambiance. Whether you're stopping by just for drinks or staying for a full meal, the venue is designed for both. The bar upstairs welcomes walk-ins for cocktails, while the kitchen serves a globally-inspired menu helmed by chef Matt Crandall. Dishes draw on international flavors—Thai basil snap peas, hamachi crudo with jalapeño and Meyer lemon, or the standout wagyu burger—while the cocktail program is polished with classics, seasonal twists, and rare whiskeys. The space spans two levels: downstairs you’ll find a more intimate lounge-style setting among exposed brick and subdued lighting; upstairs, a brighter dining zone with more open seating. According to reviewers, the vibe is consistently buzzing yet never chaotic. Brunch is served on weekends (11 AM–3 PM), and the bar stays open until 1 AM daily. Beyond food and drink, the venue tweets private-event capabilities and group bookings. With its mix of elevated drinks, inventive cuisine, and a building steeped in local history, Franklin Ave offers something special for an evening out—whether a date night, a celebratory dinner, or a casual catch-up over cocktails.