The next time you’re out for a family meal, may we suggest introducing a tradition practiced in Amor Towles’ novel, A Gentleman in Moscow. Instruct the table to read their menu from the bottom up and to decide on a dessert first. This charming exercise ensures that everyone ends their meal with a sweet delicacy.
To help get you started, here are local delights and Park City desserts that are appealing to adults and kids alike.
FUEGO LIMON
At Fuego Bistro and Pizzeria, the house specialty is the Fuego Limon – a lemon cookie with white chocolate chips baked in a wood-fired oven and topped with lemon gelato. Tip: Ask for it a la mode.
SOPAPILLAS
Spice up your meal with Sopapillas, or little pillows at Loco Lizard. Simply put, they are irresistible. The chef hand rolls and fries fresh tortillas and tops them with cinnamon, powdered sugar and honey. Tip: Extra napkins please.
ROOT BEER FLOAT
In the heart of Park City is Flanagan’s on Main. This Irish pub offers desserts made especially for “the little wee ones.” Our recommendation is the timeless root beer float made with rich ice cream and sweet frothy root beer. Tip: Grab a straw and share this classic.
MANGO WITH SWEET STICKY RICE
Chef Yanee, a native of Bangkok, brings a tasty balance of traditional and modern to her family inspired recipes at Bangkok Thai on Main. Yanee’s speciality dessert is tangy mango served with sweet coconut sticky rice. Tip: Perfect if you prefer a lighter treat.
SOFT SERVE ICE-CREAM
While ordering a fresh sandwich with dipping sauce, add a cup or cone of soft serve ice cream from the Big Dipper. Children of all ages will delight in vanilla, pineapple or twist topped with favorites like caramel sauce, chocolate syrup, M&M’s, crushed Oreo cookies, chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups or marshmallows. Tip: Take it to-go and browse Main Street.
LAVA CAKE
Also on Main Street, the Italian restaurant, Buona Vita features the ever-popular Lava Cake. This warm chocolate cake with a heart of flowing chocolate is the ultimate guilty pleasure. Tip: Superb for sharing.
CRÈME BRULÉE
Who doesn’t love a beautifully prepared crème brulée? At Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, this decadent delight is perfect in its simplicity, vanilla bean custard with raw sugar crust, garnished with plump fresh berries. Tip: Order a cup of cocoa for a dreamy pairing.
GELATO
Served by the cup and piled high, the kiddos will love Spin Café’s “world-famous” gelato. Made from scratch in small batches and using all natural ingredients, the dense ice cream has a velvety texture and intense flavor. Tip: For families avoiding dairy, try the sorbetto stuffed with fruit.
HOMEMADE PIES
Betty’s Cafe is our readers’ choice for home-baked pies. This fourth-generation family owned eatery enchants patrons with made-from-scratch specials, like apple, peach, chocolate and coconut cream. Tip: Take a slice home for later.
GA`IVSA CORN PUDDING
The Lakehouse at Deer Creek features recipes that celebrate Utah’s native and pioneer culture. If you’re looking for a unique vegan and/or gluten free dessert, you will love the Ga`ivsa Corn Pudding. This delicacy blends the bold flavor of mesquite roasted corn with the sweet bite of fresh berries. Tip: The menu changes regularly so check for specials.
PAIN AU CHOCOLAT
With a dream team of cafe and catering talent, Hill’s Kitchen thrills clients with homemade creations. Their sinful Pain Au Chocolat is a flaky puff pastry filled with rich chocolate and is expertly prepared by Executive Pastry Chef, Jessie Rae Nakoneczny. Tip: Ask for it hot.
READY TO BAKE GLUTEN FREE COOKIE DOUGH
Located in the Snow Creek shopping center, Luna’s Kitchen, is a 100% gluten free kitchen and bakery. Surprise the family with fresh-baked cookies straight from the oven. You can choose between salted chocolate chip or vegan chocolate chip cookie dough—freshly packaged and ready to bake. Tip: Stock extra dough in your freezer for last minute house guests.
CUPCAKES
A long-standing favorite for Parkites is LuAnn’s Cupcakes. These works of art look almost too good to eat—but you will. Featuring traditional flavors, LuAnn’s Cupcakes can be found at the bakery section of The Market. Tip: Shop early, as they go fast.
