This article originally appeared in the Rough Draft print issue, in stands August 2025. It has not been updated and some information may be out of date.
Placed between the iconic Out of the Blue statue and the well-known Liberty Park is a section of the city that is like nothing else that can be found in Utah. Pink lamp posts and walls covered in art invoke the proper feeling of 9th and 9th.
The origins of this neighborhood date back to the first days when the pioneers arrived in the Salt Lake Valley. Even now, it remains a mix of modern and historical architectural beauty. For example, in a row of businesses sits Coffee Garden, a modern and sleek cafe, and the Tower Theatre, which is Utah’s oldest operating theatre.
Moving through 9th and 9th is seeing a plethora of local businesses and art all in a walkable distance from one another. The appeal of 9th and 9th, of course, goes beyond walkability and good business. There is a tangible feeling in the air that is different from any other place in Utah. It is a thriving, modern space that exists independently of chain businesses and over-saturated buildings. It is the cultural heart of Salt Lake City.
Perspective on the ground
What started as a pop-up stand at local markets has now turned into a thriving business with three locations across the Salt Lake Valley. Run by owners Ashelly Collett and Nichole Choules, Salt & Honey is a store dedicated to giving local artisans the platform they need to distribute their goods and passion. “We take art from anyone,” Collett said. It’s not just art that is provided this platform. Nearly 80% of the vendors they work with are women, and though they did not plan for it, they are more than happy with it.
Salt & Honey helps to show what 9th and 9th is about: a platform to make culture and art available to the wider community. Walking through the store for even one minute shows the number of local products on display. Clothes, jewelry, books, kitchen supplies, pet products, food and so much more. It is a glimpse into the artistic weight that Utah has behind it.
When asked about 9th and 9th, Collet said, “We knew we wanted to be here.” Both Collet and Choules described the business culture of 9th and 9th and how supportive all the businesses are of each other. It is a very positive culture where everyone works together to ensure that everyone else thrives.
A few shops down the street from Salt & Honey Market is Utah’s oldest Gelato store, as well as its only artisan Gelato store, Dolcetti Gelato. Aside from its wonderful variety of flavors, the aspect of Dolcetti Gelato is in its design. The walls are covered in candle holders, plates, small paintings and other oddities. Tables are seen through with a collection of oddities placed within them, and large chandeliers hang from the ceiling. It has a distinct, bohemian feeling that helps to capture the uniqueness of 9th and 9th
Dolcetti Gelato has been a part of 9th and 9th for seventeen years, and its owner, Mark England, is tuned into the neighborhood. England describes the culture of 9th and 9th as, “A wonderful intimacy.” Every business flows into one another. For example, you could have dinner at Thai Garden, then go see a movie at Tower Theatre. Alternatively, have that same dinner, then indulge in either Dolcetti Gelato or Pie Fight for dessert. Or you could pick up some coffee from Coffee Garden and go shopping for clothes at The Stockiest.
“Everyone compliments each other,” England said, and it’s not hard to see why.
Keeping it special
9th and 9th stands as one of the rare places in Salt Lake City where an authentic, vibrant culture can be felt. Even spending an hour at one of the shops or restaurants is enough to feel a sense of ease. It is almost the hidden gem of Salt Lake, a secret that only the locals know about.
During the interview, England expressed his concern about preserving the soul of 9th and 9th. It is his hope that the landlords acknowledge that they have something special here and should work to preserve it. This can be done by acknowledging the uniqueness of 9th and 9th and taking steps to keep it that way.
Take a walk through the stores, attend a restaurant or even just stroll the blocks of 9th and 9th. It will do both you and this beacon of community, business and art some good.
