Hispanic Heritage Month was written into law in 1968 by President Lyndon Johnson to honor the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans across the country. Unlike most commemorative months, Hispanic Heritage Month begins on September 15 and lasts for a month from there to signify Latin American independence from the Spanish empire in 1810.
When Real Salt Lake kicks off against FC Cincinnati on Saturday, September 17, the Club will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Night to recognize the culture and community that drives the athletic culture in Utah. One of the best ways to support and learn more about the Hispanic community is to get a taste of their culture through the local restaurants we have in the Beehive State. While there are many Hispanic eateries throughout the state, here are some of our and Visit Utah’s favorites.
La Garnacha
From the streets of Mexico City to the streets of Herriman, La Garnacha breaks away from the known Tex-Mex cuisine and brings authentic Mexican cuisine to the Salt Lake Valley. The Tapia family began serving their dishes out of their garage to make sure they perfected the taste before opening the restaurant on August 22, 2020 on Herriman Main St. From Huaraches to Sopes, the Tapias hope to give their guests a true Mexico City experience and help them learn more about Mexican culture while providing an enjoyable experience.
La Andinita
Located near the Salt Lake Community College campus in Taylorsville, La Andinita serves the best mix of Colombian and Velezuelan dishes from breakfast to dinner. Opening in 2008, owners Mary Navarro and Ivan Silva cook up South American favorites like patacones, pastelitos and cachapas. Whether it's dine-in, catering, or taken to go, Navarro and Silva hope to share their culture with everyone that stops by La Andinita.
Mestizo Coffee House
Sitting on the west side of Salt Lake City, Mestizo Coffee House brings a unique take to the typical coffee house. From its art gallery to open mics to tango dancing lessons, owner David Galvan has created a place for everyone and has been a safe haven for the community. While Mestizo is best known for its coffee, it also serves up delicious breakfast and lunch foods like the Mez waffle and turkey delight.
Fillings and Emulsions
Adalberto “Chef Al” Diaz has been sharpening his baking skills for over 30 years. The 2012 American Culinary Federation Pastry Chef of the Year has appeared on multiple baking shows on Food Network and brought his talents here to Utah in 2013 with Fillings and Emulsions. With locations in downtown Salt Lake City, West Valley City and Provo, the pastry chefs at Fillings and Emulsions use French techniques to bring Cuban delights all over the Salt Lake valley. Additionally, you can take classes from the highly-trained chefs at the bakery to take some of the skills home.
Arempas
Opening in 2019, Arempas has quickly become the go-to late night bite for many people spending their weekends in Salt Lake City. Mainly known for their Arepas, Arempas is known for using only fresh and natural ingredients to bring the best Venezuelan cuisine in the city. The Venezuelan restaurant is now bringing their arepas, patacones and vegan cuisine to Utah county, recently opening a second location near the University Mall in Orem.
