Bambara (Hotel Monaco, Salt Lake City; tel. 801/363-5454): An ideal setting for a romantic meal, this popular restaurant brings a host of influences to the table, from Asian to Cajun. The Utah corn bisque is delectable and the filet mignon with roasted shallot-cabernet sauce melts in your mouth.
Spencer's For Steaks and Chops (Salt Lake City; tel. 801/238-4748): For those of us who like top-quality steaks prepared simply but perfectly, there is no place in Utah to top Spencer's.
Lamb's Grill Cafe (Salt Lake City; tel. 801/364-7166): A delightful and sometimes innovative restaurant with good food and reasonable prices -- how can you beat that? Sit back in one of the cozy booths, relax, and watch the who's who of Utah parade through.
350 Main (Park City; tel. 435/649-3140): A rich, romantic setting for an excellent meal, 350 Main is one of Park City's most reliable and creative restaurants. Selections are adventurous, blending French and Asian traditions to produce distinct and bold flavors. Try the black-pepper-crusted venison medallions or the Pacific ono, grilled and wasabi-seared.
Painted Pony (St. George; tel. 435/634-1700): The Painted Pony is the best restaurant between Las Vegas and Salt Lake City -- though its vibe is more California than Utah: The creative menu includes subtle twists on familiar dishes, such as sesame-crusted line-caught escolar.
