Introducing Le Buzz
A new column about all the things in Salt Lake City and Park City.
Last month, I spent a rainy few days on a trip with some friends exploring Boston, Cape Cod, and Newport. We had planned to make the drive to Salem one day (‘twas the season of the witch, after all), but the rain and wind were so intense we opted to instead stay put in our cozy rental cottage on the Cape and watch movies, eat snacks, and yap, as girlfriends do. I find that, often, it’s those languid moments deep in conversation with friends that spark the best ideas… and this new column was one of them.
It’s an idea I’ve been toying with for awhile now, but at the encouragement of my friends, allow me to formally present the first dispatch of Le Buzz. This new column is about all the things (generally) in Salt Lake City and Park City (specifically).
Having worked in local journalism for nearly 20 years (don’t do that math), I’m constantly hearing about new and noteable people, places, and things. I’ll be sharing all the buzz-worthy stuff that comes across my desk and that I uncover while exploring the nooks and crannies of the Salt Lake Valley and the Wasatch Back, from hidden gems and new hotels to cool boutiques and must-try eats. And if you’re not interested in local content, fret not—regular fare from The Current will continue as always.
Now, without further ado, let’s dive in…
A Charming New Shop & Studio Opens in the Avenues
As a born, bred, and current resident of the Avenues, I’m always excited when a new shop or cafe opens in the neighborhood. Just around the corner from Cucina, Mara Shop & Studio officially opened its doors following a grand opening celebration earlier this month. I’ve always loved this little corner of the Aves, and I’m so happy to see someone making good use of it.
Mara offers a unique, beautifully curated assortment of gifts and home goods, from Flamingo Estate candles and fancy combs to framed art and fluffy throws. Owner Erin Thunell—a former photographer, self-proclaimed shopper, and lover of interior design—and her husband, Ty, opened the store with a desire to create a local boutique inspired by those special shops you stumble upon while traveling, but also as a space to connect with the community and host creative experiences. (You can read more about the story behind the shop here.)
Ashley Beyer of Tinge Floral will be offering a Thanksgiving Centerpiece Workshop at Mara on November 25 (which, unsurprisingly, sold out in 24 hours), but additional workshops and events at Mara are in the works. Stay tuned for details about a holiday workshop with Tinge, and a Small Business Saturday event featuring a custom engraver—just in time for gift-giving season.
Mara Shop & Studio
88 Q Street, Salt Lake City
marashopstudio.com
Mid-Century Modern Devotees, This House Is For You
Following a year-long restoration, the Edward Dreier Gore House is complete and on the market. And she’s a knockout. This golden girl got a serious glow-up thanks to the vision and interior design talent of Tally Stevens and Rustin Owens of Curios Homes. A mid-century landmark in Salt Lake City, the home now merges Dreier’s sculptural vision (hello, tulip-shaped carport) with modern-day comfort.
The abode is currently listed by Summit Sotheby’s. If you’re in the market for a mid-century modern dwelling or you just appreciate architectural eye candy, don’t miss your chance to take a peek at this stunning property before some lucky soul snatches it up.
A Luxe New Fragrance Store Opens Downtown
Park City-based luxury fragrance brand Scents of Wood just opened its first retail store in downtown Salt Lake City. Founded by Fabrice Croisé, the brand features barrel-aged fine fragrances and candles inspired by the aroma of trees and forests—think Sandalwood in Oak and Praline in Maple. Sniff your way through the new store and find your new signature scent.
If you like what you smell, also check out the recent Scents of Wood collab with Utah company PURA, makers of the popular smart home fragrance diffuser system. Last summer, the two scentmakers teamed up on a collection of home fragrances inspired by iconic Western forests. The collaboration, Trees of the West, captures the essence of the Rocky Mountains with the scent Evergreen in Snow, Olympic National Park with the scent Spruce In Mist, and Joshua Tree National Park with the scent Joshua In Glow.
Scents of Wood
339 Pierpont Avenue, Salt Lake City
scentsofwood.com
RIP to a Few Local Favorites
In some sad local news, a handful of eateries have recently shuttered, including Cafe Niche, Current, Under Current, and the Chubby Baker.
I had planned to meet a friend for coffee at Cafe Niche last month, and we were shocked when we arrived and saw a note on the door announcing the closure. Whether due to rising costs, staffing challenges, location issues, sheer exhaustion, or all of the above, I’m sad to see these local eateries go.
Local Restaurants Offer Free Meals to Those In Need
But let’s end on a happier note, shall we? Given the recent government shutdown and reduction in SNAP benefits, some local restaurants are stepping up to the plate—literally—to help feed their communities. Share this list with anyone you know in need and/or make a point to support these places and show them some love for their generous and thoughtful efforts. And if you know of other local eateries to add to the list, please consider sharing in the comments section below.
Caputo’s Market: All donations through December 2 (Giving Tuesday) will go directly to Crossroads Urban Center, one of Utah’s busiest food pantries, and the Tony Caputo Foundation will match every dollar up to $20,000.
Doki Doki: This Japanese-inspired patisserie is offering free desserts for those who can’t afford to pay.
Girls Who Smash: The ladies behind this cult-favorite smash burger food truck are offering free meals to families in need. Just order “the neighbor meal” at their window and they’ll serve you for free—no questions asked. Order as many meals as needed for your family. Those who wish to contribute to neighbor meals can do so by donating to the Girls Who Smash Venmo.
Mumbai House: Free meals for families in need at all three Utah locations.
The Pizza Yard: Use code NOVEMBER for a free cheese, pepperoni, or margherita pizza when you checkout online through the end of the month (no questions asked, but please don’t abuse the honor system here).
Until next time… thanks for reading!
xx, Tessa
Tessa I love this column so much! And there is something magical when we are together - I always have my best ideas with you! Can't wait for the next Le Buzz...
I’m SO thrilled you’re finally doing this. I’ve been begging you forever!! So much is changing in the valley, no one better than you to dissect it all!