Le BUZZ: Local Love
An iconic piece of pop art comes to SLC, Christian Louboutin Popup in Park City, James Beard Award nominees in Utah, and my local Valentine's/Galentine's Day Dining & Event Guide.
Happy February! If you’re looking for some local ways to celebrate Galentine’s Day and Valentine’s Day this week, check out my roundup of suggestions below.
With Love, From NYC
Last fall, the University of Utah acquired Robert Indiana’s iconic LOVE sculpture (Red Outside Blue Inside), which previously stood on the streets of Manhattan. The colorful statue, in the U’s signature red hue, made its debut outside the Utah Museum of Fine Arts (UMFA) over the weekend—right on cue for Valentine’s Day. Go see it, snap a selfie, and spread the LOVE.
Sole Mates
On February 11, the Christian Louboutin popup boutique debuts at Montage Deer Valley. Sip exclusive cocktails like a Louboutini or Dandy on Ice, and shop alpine-inspired accessories for women and men, from shearling boots to leather handbags to mirrored ski goggles. The popup runs through February 26.
Yes, Chefs
Utah is feeling the love from the James Beard Foundation: more than a handful of local restaurants, chefs, and distillers are semifinalists in the 2026 James Beard Awards, the annual national culinary awards that are like the Oscars of the food world.
And the nominees are (drum roll, please)…
Best New Restaurant: Junah, SLC
Outstanding Bar: Post Office Place, SLC
Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service: Sara Sergent, Alpine Distilling Social Aid & Pleasure Club, Park City
Best Chef, Mountain Region: Milo Carrier, Arlo, SLC
Best Chef, Mountain Region: Andrew Fuller, Oquirrh, SLC
Best Chef, Mountain Region: Travis Herbert, Felt Bar & Eatery, SLC
Best Chef, Mountain Region: Tommy Nguyen, The Pearl, SLC
Best Chef, Mountain Region: Nick Zocco, Urban Hill, SLC
Congrats to all the well-deserved nominees! I’ve dined and imbibed at all of these establishments and I’ll be sharing more about each restaurant/bar and what I recommend ordering at each place in an upcoming edition of Le BUZZ for paid subscribers.
Local Galentine’s/Valentine’s Day Dining & Event Guide
Wondering where to eat, drink, and be merry with your besties or your beloved this weekend? From fine dining to a French flea market and a pasta night to an après rooftop party, allow me to suggest the 16 following ideas:
