This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Just because we're in the throes of another recession doesn't mean we have to eat like we're in one.
Some of the tastiest places in Utah are inexpensive hangouts that serve the best in comfort food. Here's a list of 10 great eateries, with selections that taste like a million bucks, only your checkbook won't know it.
Cottonwood Heights Cafe
You only need three words to understand this wonderful cafe's place on our list: Best. Omelettes. Ever. Cottonwood Heights Cafe has been a staple in one of Salt Lake County's newer municipalities for years, offering the best of everything from flavorful breakfasts to top-of-the-line gyros and burgers, all made with the freshest of ingredients. Nearly everything is south of 10 bucks, and for hungry skiers and hikers back from a day on the mountains, this stopover before going home is a must. 2577 E. Bengal Blvd., Cottonwood Heights. Daily, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Other Place Cafe
There are many Greek diners we adore along the Wasatch Front, but The Other Place has a special place in our hearts. Maybe it's because of its legendary "Pile" breakfast ($7.45), a delightful vegetable omelet. 469 E. 300 South, Salt Lake City. Monday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Vertical Diner
For vegetarian delights, nothing can beat some of the inexpensive dishes at this funky and retro diner. 2280 S. West Temple, Salt Lake City. Daily, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Sunshine Cafe
It's almost impossible to get a seat at this small Davis County eatery, but it's worth the wait with its delectable pancakes and omelets. 20 S. Orchard Drive, North Salt Lake. Tuesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Sunday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Tasty Thai
The name says it all, especially if you have the green curry with mixed vegetables and meat or tofu. 1302 S. 500 East, Salt Lake City. Monday to Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 5 to 9:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 5 to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 5 to 9:30 p.m.
Nachos Libre
For a bite of authentic Mexican — including wonderful enchiladas for under $8 — try this small out-of-the-way place. 1280 S. 300 West, Salt Lake City. Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Virg's
This small diner on Salt Lake County's west side is known for delicious fish and chips ($6.99 for the two-piece meal, made from halibut, of course) as well as great-tasting burritos. 5570 S. Redwood Road, Taylorsville. Daily, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Cinegrill
Incredible Italian pastas, pizzas, sandwiches and salads for under 10 bucks. 344 S. 300 East, Salt Lake City. Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.; Sunday, 4 to 8:30 p.m.
Big Ed's
Sure, everybody's heard of the Pie Pizzeria as the ultimate University of Utah college hangout. But just around the corner, there's this compact joint with the famous "Gawd Awful" — a scrumptious pile of hashbrowns, chili and eggs. 210 University St., Salt Lake City. Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Koko Kitchen
This neighborhood Japanese restaurant continues to amaze residents with its fresh food and unbelievable prices, like the teriyaki bowls (with meat or vegetables) and curry dumplings. 702 S. 300 East, Salt Lake City. Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Eating well, cheaply
Our readers have shouted out their favorite bargain meals at cafes and eateries up and down the Wasatch Front (see page C3). If you've got more suggestions, email food@sltrib.com and include "cheap eats" in the subject line and we'll consider for a future article.