Destination views over Temple Square with polished, crowd-pleasing New American plates; great for celebrations, pricier than casual spots but delivers a memorable night.
The Roof exemplifies grade A standards through iconic skyline views that define the dining experience, consistently attentive service, and solid food quality anchored by standout steaks, smashburger, and desserts. While occasional inconsistency in certain dishes prevents perfection, the restaurant's special-occasion appeal and strong execution across service and ambiance position it among the region's most celebrated dining destinations.
Set atop the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, The Roof pairs sweeping Temple Square panoramas with an elegant, post-renovation dining room that feels calm and refined. Guests rave about attentive servers and the view at sunset; one diner said the room felt beautiful and unhurried, the kind of place where conversation flows. Complimentary Lion House rolls with jam set a nostalgic tone before the mains arrive. The cooking leans elevated comfort over flash: steaks with chimichurri or harissa butter, a well-loved wagyu smashburger, maple-glazed salmon, and Utah nods like funeral potato bites with hot honey. Desserts such as toffee cake and berry cobbler earn frequent praise, though a few items (a Caesar here, a dessert there) can be less exciting. This is a view-forward, special-occasion choice where the overall experience justifies prices for most diners. Families are welcome. A kids menu (tenders, mac, simple burger) plus approachable mains make it easy for picky eaters. Parents mention children enjoying the skyline and temple construction activity, though window seats are not guaranteed. Expect $55-78 per person for three courses in USD.
Area vibe: Historic Temple Square hub with civic landmarks; elegant, celebratory vibe drawing locals and visitors.
Safety: Well-patrolled, bright, and busy; active construction around temple noted but safe.
What's nearby: Inside Joseph Smith Memorial Building; overlooks Salt Lake Temple; near convention centers and downtown hotels.
The Roof is known for its Lion House rolls, Funeral Potato Bites, a smashburger and a few standout mains and desserts.
Dress business casual, book ahead for window seats, there is no alcohol service and mains usually run $55–78 per person.
Think calm, refined dining with panoramic Temple Square views and a remodeled room that shines at sunset.