Utah restaurants are garnished with top Dining Awards

Salt Lake City Magazine presented its sixth annual Dining Awards Feb. 19. The ceremony, held at the Grand America, is akin to the Academy Awards for Utah restaurants.

There were cheers, tears, a few standing ovations and even a Cuba Gooding Jr.-type acceptance speech by Ponpawit Numnuan of Pawit's Royale Thai Cuisine. The exuberant restaurateur was determined to get in the last word, despite the the orchestra playing and the audience applauding to signal that his five ... 10 ... or was it 15? minutes were up.

There were a few new categories this year, including a Hall-of-Fame designation for restaurants that consistently win year after year. Mazza and Red Iguana were inducted. The top restaurant in Salt Lake City also won for best Italian: Cucina Toscana.

The magazine also invited readers to cast their vote for a favorite restaurant, and Bombay House was the top choice.

The March issue of the magazine will feature all the winners, for those who want to know more about why they were chosen. Here's the list. How many have you visited?

Best Ambience: Log Haven

Best American Fine Dining: Glitretind at Stein Eriksen Lodge in Park City

Best Bakery: Crumb Brothers Bakery in Logan

Best Bartender: Jerry Zoulek, Spencer's for Steaks and Chops

Best Breakfast: Ruth's Diner in Emigration Canyon

Best Brewpub: Red Rock Brewing Company

Best Brunch in Salt Lake City: Garden Cafe at the Grand America

Best Comfort Food: Gateway Grille in Kamas

Best Undiscovered, Canyons: Spin City in Heber City

Best Chinese: Szechuan Garden

Best Fusion: Shabu in Park City

Best Indian: Himalayan Kitchen

Best Italian: Cucina Toscana

Best Restaurant in Salt Lake City: Cucina Toscana

Best Japanese: Takashi

Best Lunch in Park City: Cafe Terigo

Best Lunch in Salt Lake City: Cafe Trio Downtown

Best Mexican: Tarahumara in Midway

Best Middle Eastern: Reef's Kitchen in Park City

Best Quick Eats: Greek Souvlaki No. 1