If you think the best Greek food is only in crowded tourist spots, think again.
At The Other Place in Salt Lake City, the doors open to the smell of sizzling meats, garlic, and fresh herbs. It’s not fancy, and it doesn’t need to be.
Locals and travelers alike know this is where flavor rules, and every plate tells a story of family recipes and simple, bold cooking.
Gyros, souvlaki, and moussaka arrive just right—warm, satisfying, and perfectly seasoned. The no-frills atmosphere only makes the food shine brighter, and you’ll find yourself savoring every bite without distraction.
People drive hours just to taste it. One forkful, one bite of spanakopita, and it’s easy to see why.
The Other Place proves that when food is honest and delicious, you don’t need anything else to make a meal unforgettable.
Why locals and travelers swear by it
Set on 300 South, The Other Place is the kind of diner you start recommending before you even finish dessert. You notice the no fuss atmosphere first, then the warm rhythm of regulars and quick moving servers.
It feels timeless in the best way, like a reliable checkpoint on your comfort food map.
Prices are friendly and portions are huge, which makes road trip detours feel absolutely worth it. Greek classics share space with American staples, so your party can order widely and leave happy.
You will hear chatter about lemon rice soup, big breakfasts, and that rice pudding included with meals.
Service trends personable and efficient, with staff who keep coffee topped and water refreshed. On busy weekends the turnover is fast, yet you never feel rushed.
You can linger over a Greek coffee and watch plates glide from kitchen to table.
Reviews mention consistency over trends, which suits this place perfectly. It is not chasing hype, it is serving favorites the community returns for.
If you value honest flavors and a welcoming vibe, you will understand why people cross Utah for a seat here.
Essential details at a glance
You will find The Other Place at 469 E 300 S, Salt Lake City, with easy parking behind the building. It opens 8 AM to 9 PM Tuesday through Sunday and is closed Monday, so plan accordingly.
The phone number is +1 801-521-6567, and the website lists current menus and specials.
Expect a budget friendly bill, since pricing sits at the dollar sign level. Seats fill quickly on weekends and brunch hours, but the team moves briskly.
If you prefer quieter pacing, aim for mid afternoon.
The rating hovers around 4.6 stars from thousands of reviews, reflecting long running consistency. Families, solo diners, and groups all blend comfortably here.
The vibe is old school diner with Greek soul, and that balance feels just right.
Pro tip for travelers: check the lemon rice soup days and save room for included dessert. If you want extra time to chat, ask for a booth against the wall.
You will leave full, satisfied, and probably penciling in a return visit.
Greek breakfast to start strong
If breakfast is your ritual, start with the Greek breakfast or a hearty Greek omelette. You get fluffy eggs, savory fillings, and sides that make the plate feel generous.
Pancakes or sourdough toast add that diner comfort you can depend on.
Hash browns arrive crisp and golden when the kitchen is humming, with portions that easily satisfy. Coffee refills are frequent, which keeps conversation flowing.
If you like cheese on eggs, ask your server which options they have.
Weekends can get busy, but the team keeps plates moving without sacrificing friendliness. You will see regulars greeting staff by name, always a reliable sign.
Pair your plate with a Greek coffee if you like a bold kick.
Prices are fair and servings are substantial, making breakfast a standout value. Splitting pancakes on the side is a smart way to sample.
When you step back outside, you will feel fueled up and ready for the day.
Lemon rice soup schedule and tips
The house lemon rice soup is a local legend, served Tuesday, Saturday, and Sunday. It is bright, comforting, and perfect with chill in the air.
Ask for it early if you are visiting during peak times.
The texture lands between brothy and creamy, with lemon cutting through the richness. You will catch a gentle chicken note and tender grains of rice.
It wakes up the palate without overpowering your entree.
Pair it with a Greek salad or a souvlaki plate to round out your meal. If you are splitting dishes, order a cup for the table to sample.
This soup converts skeptics into regulars surprisingly fast.
When you plan a visit around the soup days, schedule flexibility helps. Arrive before the main rush if you dislike crowds.
You will leave understanding why locals talk about this bowl like an old friend.
Souvlaki, lamb chops, and entrees
For lunch or dinner, the Greek entrees carry the spotlight. Souvlaki arrives tender and well seasoned, with sides that make the plate complete.
Lamb chops are popular and cooked to a satisfying char.
You will find Greek salads, pita, and potatoes rounding the edges. Portions are large, so sharing works well if you want dessert.
The kitchen leans home style, honest and straightforward.
On a first visit, order one grilled item and one classic comfort item for contrast. A souvlaki plate beside a burger or chicken entree shows range.
Everything comes hot and ready to satisfy a serious appetite.
Servers can suggest doneness and sides if you are unsure. If spice or salt sensitivity is a concern, just say the word.
You get attentive help without any fuss, and plates that deliver exactly what you hoped for.
Daily specials and American comfort
The specials board is a sweet spot for value and variety. Expect classic American comfort alongside Greek favorites, all in generous portions.
Burgers, liver and onions, and pasta show up with a diner heart.
You should ask your server what sides and desserts are included with entrees. It can vary, and a quick clarification prevents confusion.
The upside is a lot of food for the price.
When you crave something straightforward, this is where you land. A grilled burger with crisp fries and a Greek salad on the side covers both worlds.
You can add soup and still leave with change in your pocket.
Regulars love how dependable the specials feel, especially on busy nights. If you like to try new things, rotate through during the week.
The consistency here keeps long time customers returning year after year.
Desserts and that famous rice pudding
The rice pudding gets as many shout outs as the entrees, sometimes more. It is creamy, lightly spiced, and often served with an extra flourish of whipped cream.
Many plates include dessert, which feels like a throwback in the best way.
Cheesecake and assorted sweets rotate, but rice pudding steals the show. If you like a lighter finish, split a bowl and enjoy a few bites each.
It is comforting, cool, and perfectly sized after a hearty meal.
This is the dessert people remember on the drive home. Kids smile when the whipped cream towers a little higher than expected.
Adults love the nostalgia and simplicity.
If you plan a celebration, mention it and ask about dessert options. The staff has a knack for reading the moment and making it special.
Leave room at the end, because skipping this one is hard to forgive.
Service style and what to expect
Service here feels personal and practical, the way a busy diner should. You will see staff handling hosting, serving, and refills in a steady flow.
They know the menu well and offer helpful, quick suggestions.
On packed weekends, expect a brief wait followed by fast turnover. Once seated, drinks and coffee tend to arrive quickly.
If you need something specific, speak up and they will handle it.
Some reviewers mention mixed experiences, which can happen on any bustling day. The dominant theme is friendly, attentive service that keeps regulars loyal.
You can feel the rhythm of a place that has done this a long time.
Leave a little flexibility in your schedule and you will settle right in. Ask for clarifications on sides and desserts to avoid surprises.
Most of all, enjoy the no nonsense hospitality that defines this spot.
Best times to visit and seating
Plan for peak traffic on weekends and brunch windows, when the dining room hums. If you prefer calm, try mid morning on weekdays or mid afternoon.
The space is spacious yet cozy, with booths and tables for groups.
Ask for a booth if you want a longer chat or a quieter corner. Counter style seating is not the focus here, but the floor plan moves well.
Staff guides the flow to keep waits manageable.
Parking is available behind the building, which is a stress saver downtown. Street parking can work in a pinch if the lot fills.
Check hours carefully, since Monday is a rest day.
If you are driving in from out of town, call ahead for any large party needs. The team manages groups efficiently with extra hands for drinks and refills.
You will be seated, fed, and on your way with time to spare.
How to order like a regular
Start with lemon rice soup if it is a soup day, then pick a Greek entree or the Greek breakfast. Add a side Greek salad and save space for rice pudding.
This sequence hits the greatest hits without overordering.
Ask your server about included sides and dessert so you know exactly what arrives. If you want crisp hash browns, say it kindly and they will aim for extra crunch.
For coffee lovers, keep that mug topped while you wait.
Split plates when exploring the menu for the first time. A souvlaki and a burger cover Greek and American comfort in one sitting.
You can always take leftovers for later.
Finally, watch the specials board as you walk in. If something catches your eye, pivot and embrace the classic diner impulse.
You will understand why this place turns first timers into loyal fans.