Lake Effect, from its inception, has been a unique space curated to leave a lasting impression. From the day we opened our doors the main focus has been to fill a missing niche in downtown Salt Lake City. From immaculately curated cocktails, food prepared with thought and intention, to nightly live musicians, Lake Effect's overall atmosphere provides a one-of-a-kind experience.
We aim to provide each guest with the freshest possible, locally sourced ingredients that will leave them coming back for years to come. We have two beautiful bars that each offer our guests a contrasting and memorable experience. With every intricate detail evident within our walls, Lake Effect has succeeded in creating Salt Lake's best choice for fine dining, exquisite cocktails, and the ultimate place to gather for every occasion.
We aim to provide each guest with the freshest possible, locally sourced ingredients that will leave them coming back for years to come. We have two beautiful bars that each offer our guests a contrasting and memorable experience. With every intricate detail evident within our walls, Lake Effect has succeeded in creating Salt Lake's best choice for fine dining, exquisite cocktails, and the ultimate place to gather for every occasion.
Services
Founded in 2017, Lake Effect has become a renowned locale in the Salt Lake valley. Our building itself is a historical part of the downtown area. Originally built in 1910 and known as the Hotel Victor, we converted the building into an elegant bar where people can mingle, eat and enjoy live music long into the night.
Does your drink need a tasty companion? Of course, it does. Grab a table at Lake Effect and get high quality, Latin inspired meals right at the heart of downtown Salt Lake City. Dine with us any day of the week, morning, evening, or night. Whether you're dining on our main level, or in one of our intimate lounges, we're your one-stop-shop for dinner and drinks.
When we opened our doors in 2017 and began operating a restaurant out of a century-old building, we knew that Lake Effect was going to be a reflection of elegance and history, infusing the finest modern cuisine with an unapologetic nostalgia for the bygone look and feel of historic Salt Lake City. To that end, our menu is as handcrafted as our spirits.
There are few social mainstays as timeless as gathering with friends and family for a drink. Since the beginning of recorded history, people from all classes and backgrounds - from kings and emperors to migrant workers and indentured servants - have enjoyed some form of beer, wine, or spirits during a feast or after a long day of work; some even received it as payment for their labor.
A perfect nightlife atmosphere doesn't take a break simply because the weekend comes to an end. In fact, as Salt Lake's "Big City" Bar, we make it our mission to provide you with the endless entertainment you and your friends so rightfully deserve.
With exciting concerts and live music happening all year-round, the fun-loving folks at Lake Effect are all about giving you any and every excuse to get out and enjoy some crazy talent, 24/7-and we take that "seven" seriously.We don't like to discriminate against any single day of the week, and that's precisely why we've decided to bring you the magic of music every day of the week.
With exciting concerts and live music happening all year-round, the fun-loving folks at Lake Effect are all about giving you any and every excuse to get out and enjoy some crazy talent, 24/7-and we take that "seven" seriously.We don't like to discriminate against any single day of the week, and that's precisely why we've decided to bring you the magic of music every day of the week.
Reviews (26)
Erica Mellors
Feb 02, 2022
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My husband and I found ourselves at Lake Effect on a Tuesday evening when our original restaurant choice was closed. Lake Effect quickly became our absolute favorite place on our visit to SLC! The cocktails are incredible and the food was amazing. We had the nachos - definitely try these! They are baked so all the chips are crispy and full of toppings! Our waitress was very nice and attentive. They had live music which added to the overall ambiance of the place. We will definitely be coming back!
Richie G.
Jan 30, 2022
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Mary X.
Jan 29, 2022
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We enjoyed the food!!!!
The drinks were also very good. Our server was good, she did a decent job. We didn't feel neglected, however I've had better service elsewhere. We took care of her anyway .
Loved the ambiance and the interior design. I was a little ad because the ladies room apparently did not have the same cool art as the men's room. We were going to sneak in to look at the art in the men's room, especially the last stall of the men's room.
Perhaps next time, the ladies room will have great art as well !
Still loved the place. Would return again!
The drinks were also very good. Our server was good, she did a decent job. We didn't feel neglected, however I've had better service elsewhere. We took care of her anyway .
Loved the ambiance and the interior design. I was a little ad because the ladies room apparently did not have the same cool art as the men's room. We were going to sneak in to look at the art in the men's room, especially the last stall of the men's room.
Perhaps next time, the ladies room will have great art as well !
Still loved the place. Would return again!
Jake Robins
Jan 28, 2022
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Sydney H.
Jan 27, 2022
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Very nice cocktail lounge. There's multiple levels and different bands. The drinks were great! The food was good but not amazing for the price. The fried pickles, ceviche and garlic fries were very good. The ahi and shrimp tacos, lamb ribs and nachos were good but not amazing. They were very busy but our waitress, Shayna, was amazing all night!!
Kat S.
Jan 22, 2022
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I really like Lake Effect for food and drinks. It is a great option to meet friends after work or for a night out. It can get crowded and often has a line forming after 9 pm. They do take reservations, which is convenient if you're in a large group or want to secure a table.
The last night I visited I was with a friend and we ordered drinks and shared appetizers/tapas. We started with the bacon wrapped scallops and wagyu skewers. Both were delicious and flavorful. We also had the lamb ribs and garlic fries, which were not our favorite of the meal. The ribs were a bit tough and difficult
The last night I visited I was with a friend and we ordered drinks and shared appetizers/tapas. We started with the bacon wrapped scallops and wagyu skewers. Both were delicious and flavorful. We also had the lamb ribs and garlic fries, which were not our favorite of the meal. The ribs were a bit tough and difficult
Olivia Gibbons
Jan 21, 2022
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The wait staff and concept of this place are good. Unfortunately, I have been touched inappropriately by staff 3 separate times (multiple girlfriends too) coming here and will not return because of it. They really need to train their staff on the appropriate protocol of how to guide crowds away from their poorly organized DJ section downstairs. All proper security/staff are trained that you should guide them touching their shoulder/elbow, not their lower abdomen and butt. Especially when the guest is trapped with nowhere to go due to that area needing a better system.
Tori W.
Jan 11, 2022
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While in the area for a conference, my company hosted a social event here to meet with customers. The staff was extremely accommodating and helpful for the entire event. There were finger foods, such as sushi, chicken sandwiches, bruschetta, and some other items. Everything was extremely good. There are a ton of drink options and all are really good, the names are also very creative. I would definitely recommend! FYI, there is only street parking out front. They get very busy, so I would recommend making reservations.
Cassidy K.
Jan 09, 2022
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My friend and I ordered the wagyu skewers, bacon wrapped scallops, seasoned fries and lamb ribs.
The skewers and scallops were so yummy! However, although the lamb ribs had great flavor, they were over cooked and tough.
The seasoned fries were okay, they were soggy but still decent.
The downstairs is more lowkey, which I enjoy! Overall, had a great experience and will be back!
The skewers and scallops were so yummy! However, although the lamb ribs had great flavor, they were over cooked and tough.
The seasoned fries were okay, they were soggy but still decent.
The downstairs is more lowkey, which I enjoy! Overall, had a great experience and will be back!
Catherine Blomquist
Jan 02, 2022
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Went to Lake Effect for our 24th anniversary and really enjoyed the food, drinks and atmosphere. They have a huge selection of cocktails, but I just left my drink choice up to our server and he didn't disappoint. The food is excellent! We had the cheese board, pork chop, and steak tacos. Later we had the tin can nachos. Everything was delicious. I enjoy the live music. I made a reservation online and noted I wanted a booth near the stage and that is exactly what we got. Perfect!!
Alissa Cannon
Dec 27, 2021
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I had such an amazing date night the other night with my better half. I had the Misty Mountain cocktail during the summer, but was very bummed when I was told the menu changes every couple months. But our rock star waitress and bartender made the drink happen.
My man had the sea bass and I had the pork chop dinner. The mashed potatoes were smooth and creamy, mushroom sauce was to die for, pork chop was perfectly cooked and juicy. The overall sea bass dish was flavorful...he didnt give much details but he did devour it lol
Just overall amazing experience. We never felt rushed out the door, great
My man had the sea bass and I had the pork chop dinner. The mashed potatoes were smooth and creamy, mushroom sauce was to die for, pork chop was perfectly cooked and juicy. The overall sea bass dish was flavorful...he didnt give much details but he did devour it lol
Just overall amazing experience. We never felt rushed out the door, great
Patrick M.
Dec 23, 2021
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I gave this spot a shot for solo happy hour for myself on a Sunday afternoon, and was impressed! The bar area is cozy and sexy and comfortable. I ordered the avocado tacos and they were some of the best I've had in a long time - generous and flavorful! I had the cajun fries which were *almost* too spicy, even for me. The bartender and service was friendly and appeared super knowledgeable for anything you might desire. I would go back.
Disa Allison
Dec 13, 2021
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Susan R.
Dec 13, 2021
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Excellent service and food tonight at Lake Effect!
I'm staying at a local hotel for a meeting tomorrow and meet some coworkers to have dinner and drinks.
We literally walked down the road, this place looked interesting with torches outside, live music, large heavy wooden doors, and outside seating.
We stopped in and talked to the heavily tattooed greeter who vouched for the food so we grabbed a spot at the bar.
I didn't get a photo yet when I popped downstairs for the restroom, they gave an old fashioned cigarette machine. Not sure if it works yet the memories from my early bartending
I'm staying at a local hotel for a meeting tomorrow and meet some coworkers to have dinner and drinks.
We literally walked down the road, this place looked interesting with torches outside, live music, large heavy wooden doors, and outside seating.
We stopped in and talked to the heavily tattooed greeter who vouched for the food so we grabbed a spot at the bar.
I didn't get a photo yet when I popped downstairs for the restroom, they gave an old fashioned cigarette machine. Not sure if it works yet the memories from my early bartending
Bryon M.
Dec 12, 2021
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Pretty good place. This is one of those places that's a bar and serves food, as opposed to a restaurant that serves alcohol. So no one under 21.
Was drawn to this place because their Sunday brunch was until 4pm. Other places end theirs at 3pm. I usually don't venture out for food until 3pm . Also glanced at their menu. They had chicken & waffles listed for brunch, so I had my mind set on that. Walked in and was greeted by the hostess, who asked for my ID and reminded me that they were still serving brunch. I grabbed a seat at the bar. Took a glance at the menu, and they no longer
Was drawn to this place because their Sunday brunch was until 4pm. Other places end theirs at 3pm. I usually don't venture out for food until 3pm . Also glanced at their menu. They had chicken & waffles listed for brunch, so I had my mind set on that. Walked in and was greeted by the hostess, who asked for my ID and reminded me that they were still serving brunch. I grabbed a seat at the bar. Took a glance at the menu, and they no longer
Kelsey C.
Dec 12, 2021
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This place is so much fun and totally surprised me with how popular it is and also its fantastic food and drinks.
The ambiance is beautiful and IG-worthy. We were able to walk right in around dinner-time. Tough to find parking on the weekend but we found some street parking and walked over.
Drinks were strong and the drinks menu is endless. Server was attentive and great at recommending cocktails we might like. And the food! I have not had such delicious flavors from a bar menu in a long time. I was skeptical about the tin can nachos but they were really good - we added pork and it was more
The ambiance is beautiful and IG-worthy. We were able to walk right in around dinner-time. Tough to find parking on the weekend but we found some street parking and walked over.
Drinks were strong and the drinks menu is endless. Server was attentive and great at recommending cocktails we might like. And the food! I have not had such delicious flavors from a bar menu in a long time. I was skeptical about the tin can nachos but they were really good - we added pork and it was more
Vanessa O.
Dec 12, 2021
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Lake effect had a nice vibe. It didn't take long to get a table for two. They have chill music in the background to keep you relaxed and entertained. We came here after dinner so it was mostly to chill, drink, and have some small bites. You get some seasoned fries just for checking in so go ahead and hit that button.
The Cajun fries were really good; had that nice spicy kick. I also had the Texas mule to pass the time. It had a strong ginger taste to it. After the drinks, we ordered the wagyu skewers to go. It was super salty. We didn't finish it.
Still enjoyed the time spent there
The Cajun fries were really good; had that nice spicy kick. I also had the Texas mule to pass the time. It had a strong ginger taste to it. After the drinks, we ordered the wagyu skewers to go. It was super salty. We didn't finish it.
Still enjoyed the time spent there
Nettifer W.
Dec 11, 2021
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5 stars for the nachos! Mercy! Talk about delicious because there are toppings throughout and they are baked! We went for the nachos but my hubby said. Best Brazilian burger ever and he lived in Brazil for 2 years. The salad was amazing! Chicken was juicy and no need for dressing to cover up the salad. The seasoned fries were amazing and so was the dipping sauce. The atmosphere was awesome- but dark. But relaxed and such a fun night! We will for sure go back. I recommend getting a reservation or go early when we left the line was out the door. We tried the Cajun fries and they were so spicy we
Taylor L.
Dec 05, 2021
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Lovely ambiance, live music, delicious custom cocktails and a wide variety on the drink menu. The servers are prompt and friendly, definitely an awesome spot.
The downside is something they can't really control....it's hard to get in, it's hard to get a seat at the bar, it has a cover charge after 9PM. This place would be more awesome if it wasn't so hyped....I would've loved to sit at the bar and listen to live music and drink cocktails, but had to only get one round and leave because nothing was available.
Worth a shot, but reservations are better or come early.
The downside is something they can't really control....it's hard to get in, it's hard to get a seat at the bar, it has a cover charge after 9PM. This place would be more awesome if it wasn't so hyped....I would've loved to sit at the bar and listen to live music and drink cocktails, but had to only get one round and leave because nothing was available.
Worth a shot, but reservations are better or come early.
Zach L.
Dec 01, 2021
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We did have a few hiccups during our visit to Lake Effect (I ordered the nachos without protein and they put pork on it anyway; my wife's glass needed to be replaced because a shard chipped off while she was drinking . . .) but what can I say? This is the sort of ambiance I love.
I loved the live music and the rustic chic digs. Whoever was playing the night we visited (a solo songwriter) had immense talent, from his vocal range to his diverse playlist. (He played everything from 1970 James Taylor to 1990 Counting Crows to 2010 folk).
In spite of the meat mishap, I did love my tin can
I loved the live music and the rustic chic digs. Whoever was playing the night we visited (a solo songwriter) had immense talent, from his vocal range to his diverse playlist. (He played everything from 1970 James Taylor to 1990 Counting Crows to 2010 folk).
In spite of the meat mishap, I did love my tin can
Camille P.
Nov 24, 2021
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Lake effect is another cool vibe downtown Salt Lake City. Must be 21 or older to enter. The fries were delicious and the sauce for the asada tacos was divine! With limited seating options it was a bit snug, there was live music and later in the evening this spot turns into more of a club atmosphere in the basement so it really is a blend of bar/dance/restaurant. Overall not bad and will likely return again.
Chelsea Wade
Oct 02, 2021
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The atmosphere, drink selection, and food is all top notch. Favorite Lake Effect Cocktails are Misty Mountains and Hot Girl Summer. Their fries are amazing and also love their pesto chicken sammy and steak tacos (a little dry though so add sauce to it). Wasn’t impressed with their tin can nachos or glazed carrots.
Kerri H.
Aug 31, 2021
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Ambiance.
Flavor.
Live music.
High shelves with all liquor/wine options you can dream up (in a city where many religious ppl do not imbibe).
This place is rebellious. Willing to take risks. They go against the status quo. Renegades. ...Wanting to stand out... and it works.
The menu options are awesome. I knew I wanted those ahi wraps but there was so much competition which made it hard for me to commit. I'm glad I did but that wasabi had me crying tho!!!
I felt so happy the entire time I was there. I think it was the music... but also the food and decor and the love that went into
Flavor.
Live music.
High shelves with all liquor/wine options you can dream up (in a city where many religious ppl do not imbibe).
This place is rebellious. Willing to take risks. They go against the status quo. Renegades. ...Wanting to stand out... and it works.
The menu options are awesome. I knew I wanted those ahi wraps but there was so much competition which made it hard for me to commit. I'm glad I did but that wasabi had me crying tho!!!
I felt so happy the entire time I was there. I think it was the music... but also the food and decor and the love that went into
William Sulzer
Jul 17, 2021
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Very warm and cozy modern/industrial atmosphere. The live music really paired well with it, too (Cherry Thomas when we were there). Super deep cocktail menu, so there are plenty of options to choose from. Lots of choices on the menu as well, and they all looked delicious -- Tin Can Nachos were awesome (and easily feeds 2). Highly recommend this place. Make reservations or be ok with first come first served seating at the bar or foyer area!
Joel H.
Jul 10, 2021
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We entered and walked past this awesome wine room. I saw the biggest and most well-stock bar I have ever seen. (see pictures) This place was just so much fun for our large lunch group. It was not busy and we were immediately seated in this very-fun-awesome bar/pub/restaurant.
Great atmosphere here. Very eclectic and comfortable. It was very impressive how fast the waiter came over to take a drink and appetizer order. Super friendly staff here.
They also had a very eclectic menu but eggs, are eggs, are eggs. I was there with my friends for a light lunch. My wife also ordered eggs
Great atmosphere here. Very eclectic and comfortable. It was very impressive how fast the waiter came over to take a drink and appetizer order. Super friendly staff here.
They also had a very eclectic menu but eggs, are eggs, are eggs. I was there with my friends for a light lunch. My wife also ordered eggs
Lauren T.
May 31, 2021
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This place has such an awesome environment! There's a huge wall of whiskey and other liquors across one side of the building. There was live music tonight and we had a front row spot.
The only food item we had were the side of fries because we had just eaten dinner. Once we saw all of the food coming out for other tables, we had wished we ate there!
We started off with the Espresso Martini and the Mai Thai. Both were awesome. I was nervous that the espresso martini was going to be too sweet but it was PERFECT.
We then moved on to the Sour Blueberry Ale and a glass of the Petit Syrah.
The only food item we had were the side of fries because we had just eaten dinner. Once we saw all of the food coming out for other tables, we had wished we ate there!
We started off with the Espresso Martini and the Mai Thai. Both were awesome. I was nervous that the espresso martini was going to be too sweet but it was PERFECT.
We then moved on to the Sour Blueberry Ale and a glass of the Petit Syrah.
