Tucked into a historic downtown building at 147 W. Broadway, Squatters Pub & Brewery has been a Salt Lake City institution since 1989. What started as one of the city’s very first brewpubs has grown into a local gathering spot where house-brewed beers, a scratch kitchen, and roomy, light-filled interiors meet Salt Lake’s energetic downtown vibe. If you’re planning a visit, here’s everything you need to know — and a few reasons why Squatters still feels fresh after more than three decades.
The space — history with a comfy, modern twist
The pub lives in a converted, old hotel building right in the heart of downtown, and the architecture and layout still give off that warm, reclaimed feel: exposed wood beams, high ceilings, and banners and memorabilia that nod to Squatters’ long history. The ground floor opens onto the street — perfect for people-watching — while the interior balances a bustling bar scene with plenty of room for groups and quieter tables for a date night or solo laptop session. Many reviewers and local tourism listings point to the space as part of the pub’s charm.
Beer — award-winning and approachable
Squatters pours beers brewed on-site (and in partnership with the Utah Brewers Cooperative production), ranging from easy-drinking pale ales and lagers to big, hop-forward IPAs and barrel-aged special releases.
Longtime favorites include approachable classics and seasonal standouts; the brewery’s competitive pedigree is real — Squatters (and its sister brands) have collected numerous medals at the Great American Beer Festival and the World Beer Cup over the years. Notable honors include medals for beers like Hell’s Keep and multiple GABF awards that have helped cement the brewery’s regional reputation. If you like trying local staples, order a flight to sample the range.
Food — more than pub grub
Squatters pairs its beer program with a menu built for sharing and variety: hearty burgers, elevated pub classics, salads and seafood, and brunch offerings on weekends.
The kitchen emphasizes locally-sourced ingredients and sustainable choices, so you’ll find seasonal dishes alongside dependable comfort options like mac ’n’ cheese, fish & chips, and a standout burger. The menu is intentionally broad — great whether you’re on a beer crawl, grabbing a pre-concert meal, or brunching with friends. Online ordering and delivery listings reflect an accessible, crowd-pleasing set of dishes.
Community & culture — a downtown hub
Squatters isn’t just about beer and food; it’s been a community hub for events, private parties, and local meetups. The location’s centrality near downtown offices, theaters, and the light rail makes it convenient for both visitors and locals.
The founders’ connection to the city and the beer scene has been visible not only through the pub’s longevity but also through business moves over the years — including ownership changes and a notable 2022 moment when founders and local operators reclaimed control of the restaurant locations, keeping the pubs locally oriented. That local focus echoes in the pub’s support of city events and seasonal beer releases.
Practical tips for visiting
- Address & getting there: 147 W Broadway (downtown). It’s walkable from many downtown hotels and served by transit; there’s also street and paid parking nearby.
- Best time to go: Evenings and weekend brunches are busy. If you want a quieter experience, try weekday late afternoons.
- Try a flight: Ideal way to taste a handful of flagship and seasonal beers (ask your server for current tap highlights).
- Dog owners: Squatters is frequently listed among Salt Lake’s dog-friendly patios, making it an easy choice for pet-friendly outings in warm months.
- Events & private bookings: They host events and can accommodate private groups — check the pub’s events or contact them directly for availability.
Why it matters
In a city whose craft-beer scene has exploded in recent decades, Squatters holds a special place as a pioneer — one of the businesses that helped define Salt Lake’s brewpub culture. That legacy matters because it’s paired with consistent quality: award-winning beers, a dependable food program, and a comfortable atmosphere that makes both visitors and locals feel at home. Whether you’re a beer obsessive interested in the brewery’s limited releases or a traveler looking for a friendly downtown pub with good food, Squatters hits the sweet spot.
Final note — what to order
If you’re unsure, start with a flight of four: pair a crisp lager or pale ale with something malty (like a porter or amber), and add a hop-forward IPA plus a seasonal or barrel-aged special if available. Order something shareable from the kitchen — the burger or the mac ’n’ cheese are crowd-pleasers — and save room for dessert if they have a featured sweet on the menu.
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