Water Witch

Tucked into the revitalising Central 9th neighbourhood of Salt Lake City, Water Witch blends down-to-earth neighbourhood bar energy with top-tier craft-cocktail artistry. Founded by hospitality veterans Sean Neves, Scott Gardner and Matt Pfohl, the bar opened with the mission of marrying community comfort and serious drink-making. Inside you’ll find a compact 800 sq ft footprint crafted like a workshop—cement floors, wood-work benches, minimal ornamentation—giving the space an authentic, unpretentious character. The drink menu mixes timeless classics done with precision and wildly creative seasonal originals. Locals say the bartenders will ask what you’re in the mood for and then knock something out of the park. In 2025 Water Witch achieved major recognition — it became a finalist for the James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Bar, competing among the top bars in the United States. This accolade reflects its influence in elevating Salt Lake’s cocktail culture and its status as a must-visit for serious drinkers. Despite the high-end craft credentials, the atmosphere remains warm, intimate and approachable. It’s equally suitable for a quiet after-work drink as for one of those “wow” cocktail experiences you’ll remember. Because the space is small and word is getting out, it can feel packed by later hours—so arriving early or being willing to cozy in is advisable. For those looking for more than drinks, Water Witch shares a back-hall connection to its sibling dining concept Bar Nohm, led by chef David Chon, where you can order elevated Japanese/French inspired plates while sipping cocktails from the bar. Bottom line: Water Witch offers one of the most refined yet unpretentious cocktail experiences in Salt Lake City. Whether you’re a local or visiting, if you appreciate craft, creativity and intimate vibes, it’s a standout stop.