Seemor
Zao Asian CafeB-Worth Trying
400 South 639 East, Suite B, Salt Lake City, UT 84102
· Asian fusion restaurant, Health food restaurant, Takeout Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1003 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Fresh, build-your-own Asian fusion bowls, tacos, and salads with fast-casual service; flavorful and flexible but portions and service consistency vary.
Why it gets a B- for overall quality
Zao Asian Cafe delivers solid fast-casual dining with strong food quality and efficient service, but inconsistent portion sizes and variable staff attentiveness prevent a higher grade. Fresh, customizable bowls with standout sauces appeal to health-conscious diners and families, though the experience doesn't quite reach the reliability and distinction of top-tier neighborhood spots.
Restaurant Summary
The scene is fast-casual and clean, the sort of spot where office folks and students slide through for quick bowls and tacos. Staff interactions swing from cheerful to brusque, but when they are on, service is efficient and friendly. As one fan put it, the bowls are "fresh, flavorful, and not too heavy," a dependable downtown fix. The cooking leans fusion and flexible: teriyaki meets green curry, tacos carry Asian fillings, and you pick rice, noodles, or greens with toppings to match. It is more about bright, accessible flavors than strict tradition, and sauces like the fresh green curry get frequent love. Expect a modern, health-forward take rather than grandma’s recipes; creative without being fussy. Families do well here thanks to a dedicated kids menu (bowls or tacos) and straightforward flavors. Simple chicken, rice, and teriyaki work for picky eaters, while tofu and veggies suit different needs. Portions can vary, so if sharing with kids, consider asking for a little extra rice or sauce.
At a Glance
- Fresh, customizable bowls with standout green curry and solid tofu
- Quick service ideal for workday lunches
- Strong vegan/vegetarian options and a real kids menu
- Portion sizes can be inconsistent, especially proteins
- Service varies from warm to rushed; occasional rudeness reported
What Sets It Apart
- mix-and-match sauces
- kid-friendly pricing
- healthy fast-casual bowls
What People Love
- Feeling good after a flavorful, not-heavy meal
- Mixing sauces like teriyaki and green curry
- Crisp vegetables and customizable toppings
- Friendly, speedy experiences during off-peak times
- Reliable tofu option for plant-based eaters
Points of Concern
- Portion control varies; multiple reports of light protein scoops
- Customer service can feel rushed or curt during busy times
- Historical food safety complaints tied to catering in 2022 and one 2023 incident
- Delivery or app-order hiccups with poor phone support for fixes
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$13-$18 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Choose tofu or chicken with green curry for value and flavor
- Use kids bowl for small appetites
- Add double meat if protein is a priority
Perfect For
- Build-your-own bowl cravings on a lunch break
- Casual weeknight dinners with mixed diets
- Healthy-ish takeout before a meeting
- Feeding kids without breaking the bank
Location Insights
Area: Downtown-adjacent, student and office mix, quick-lunch friendly with steady daytime traffic.
Safety: Generally safe with regular foot traffic; typical downtown vigilance at night.
Nearby: Near offices, apartments, and the UTA TRAX corridor; convenient for takeout and workday lunches.
Central CityCentral City is a vibrant neighborhood with a blend of historic and modern buildings, offering diverse dining options from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. The area attracts a mix of locals and tourists, contributing to a lively and accessible dining atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–21:00
Tuesday11:00–21:00
Wednesday11:00–21:00
Thursday11:00–21:00
Friday11:00–21:00
Saturday11:00–21:00
Sunday11:00–20:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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