Design Chops
Distinctive DIY decor distinguishes five Utah dining destinations By Darby Doyle
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n the competitive world of modern dining, providing great food with stellar service is a baseline requirement. But restaurants that make it, and ultimately thrive, provide more than just a place to order and eat a meal. Arbitrary, personal and the highly subjective intangibles of atmosphere, design and mood can elevate a basic repast into a must-repeat experience for patrons, whether it’s at the neighborhood bar or a five-star fine dining extravaganza. Utah design guru and real-estate agent Cody Derrick, owner of cityhomeCOLLECTIVE, thinks that those personal touches and gracious elements are what keep people coming back. “It’s the small moments that create big impacts,” he says. Consider the luxurious, haunting and distinctively moody vibe created in spaces he’s designed, such as Pallet Bistro and Finca. Derrick also believes that those memorable details are what big corporate design teams often overlook. Scott Hale—owner of local favorites Martine, Desert Edge Pub, Red Butte Café and Stella Grill—integrates a similar philosophy in all of the spaces he’s owned and designed. When owners and chefs take a hands-on approach to the design and construction of a restaurant, “Things come out a little more idiosyncratic,” he says. “It makes the space more comfortable and approachable.” Fortunately for the denizens of the Beehive State, we’ve got handfuls of restaurants brimming with delicious design. Some of our favorite spots are highlighted on the following pages. Not only have chefs and owners invested more than just their cash into their projects, they have brought personal elements, innovation, creativity and even some sweat equity to their spaces. “Doin’ it yourself” never looked so delectable. 14 Devour Utah • September/October 2015