Seemor
Franklin Ave Cocktails & KitchenB-Worth Trying
231 S Edison St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
· Bar, Restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (687 reviews)
Takeout · Outdoor seating
Creative cocktails and modern American plates in a speakeasy-style downtown spot; great drinks and many standout dishes, but service speed and kid restrictions (21+ only) can frustrate.
Why it gets a B- for overall quality
Franklin Ave Cocktails & Kitchen delivers strong food quality and knowledgeable service anchored by destination-level cocktails and creative small plates. However, quality consistency shows notable variation, and service pacing lags during peak times, preventing a higher grade. The speakeasy aesthetic and hidden-gem appeal make it worth a visit for cocktail-focused diners, though expect occasional waits and uneven execution.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels like a downtown hideaway with speakeasy charm and a humming bar at its core. Guests talk about confident, friendly bartenders and servers who guide you through the list, with one noting, "the cocktails were balanced and the bartender dialed in a custom pour." It is a lively spot, though tight two-tops and the basement can feel cramped at peak times. The cooking leans creative and produce-driven rather than classic pub fare. Expect yuzu on crudo, miso with black cod, spiced duck with hot honey, and Thai-leaning snap peas alongside a very good wagyu steak and hearty sandwiches. Cocktails are the star, but many plates match the bar’s ambition when the kitchen is on form. Families take note: this venue is 21 and over only. Even babies are not permitted, and several visitors were turned away. For kid-friendly dining, choose another spot; here, the menu’s adventurous flavors and the ID policy make it strictly adults’ night out.
At a Glance
- Destination-level cocktails with knowledgeable bartenders
- Creative fusion menu with multiple standout dishes
- Service can be slow and pacing uneven at peak times
- 21+ only; no minors allowed, even infants
- Parking is paid/street and can be confusing downtown
What Sets It Apart
- serious_cocktail_program
- fusion_flavor_menu
- heated_patio
What People Love
- Inventive, well-balanced cocktails
- Playful flavor mashups that still feel grounded
- Generous portions on burgers and sandwiches
- Cozy speakeasy vibe with a heated patio
Points of Concern
- Drink and food delays up to an hour reported on busy nights; courses can arrive all at once
- Tight seating in basement; some find two-tops cramped
- Group policies strict; difficulty with reservations over six
- Review patterns show creativity-forward dishes; conservative palates may find flavors bold
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$48-$70 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- If spice-sensitive, ask to adjust chile components; staff can guide workable tweaks
- Vegetarians have solid mains (Cauliflower Steak, Tomato Chitarra); vegans can rely on sides and Yuzu Sorbet
Perfect For
- Date night with cocktails first
- Small-group celebrations at the bar
- Out-of-town guests who love creative menus
- Solo dinner at the bar with a stirred drink
Location Insights
Area: Downtown corridor with nightlife and bars; draws pre-theater, date nights, and cocktail seekers.
Safety: Generally busy at night; some reports of unhoused presence around entrances but indoor space feels safe.
Nearby: Near other bar-restaurants and offices; two levels plus patio noted by reviewers.
Central CityCentral City is a dynamic urban neighborhood known for its eclectic dining options, bars, and proximity to cultural attractions. The area attracts a diverse crowd looking for trendy restaurants, cocktail bars, and a lively social atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–01:00
Tuesday11:00–01:00
Wednesday11:00–01:00
Thursday11:00–01:00
Friday11:00–01:00
Saturday11:00–01:00
Sunday11:00–01:00
Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →