Within Salt Lake City, Varley Cocktail Bar SLC is one of the most creative and exciting destinations for craft cocktails and elevated nightlife. Recognised for a stylishly set atmosphere, thoughtful design, and artfully mixed drinks, Varley has become a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike who appreciate great cocktails served with intention. Whether it is date night, celebrating with friends, or simple curiosity about Utah's growing cocktail scene, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about your experience.
The Concept Behind Varley Cocktail Bar SLC
Situated in the heart of downtown, Varley Cocktail Bar SLC is part of the highly acclaimed Ivy and Varley Salt Lake City duo: two sister spaces that complement each other well. Ivy offers an upscale dining experience with modern American cuisine, while Varley offers a more intimate, cocktail-focused environment where craftsmanship and creativity shine in the foreground. Collectively, Ivy and Varley SLC have created a dynamic destination that redefines what nightlife in Utah can be:refined, inviting, and full of personality.
At Varley, the team's philosophy is all about finding a balance between flavour and presentation, comfort and sophistication, and timeless classics with bold innovation. It's not about pouring a drink; it's an experience that would stay long after the last sip.
Atmosphere and Design
Step into Varley Cocktail Bar SLC, and the modern, yet cozy, design hits you right off. Balance comes in the form of moody lighting and stylish décor, highlighted by gold accents, plush seating, and a layout begging for conversation. Upscale but never pretentious, Varley suits everything from a pre-dinner cocktail to a late-night rendezvous.
The centrepiece of all is the bar itself, lined with a wide array of spirits from all over the world: small-batch bourbons, botanical gins, unique liqueurs, and house-made syrups make for a story with every element lining the counter. The bartenders herein are not just servers but artists who love to tell the story behind each creation with passion.
The Menu: Creativity At Its Finest
What really sets Varley Cocktail Bar SLC apart is the inventive cocktail menu. It is one of those establishments where every drink seems to be a revelation. You'll find an array of signature cocktails combining local ingredients, seasonal produce, and global influences.
Classics buffs will find Varley serving up perfectly balanced renditions of favourites like the Old Fashioned, Negroni, and Espresso Martini. But the real magic happens in their original creations, where mixologists play with house infusions, aromatic bitters, and unexpected pairings. Each drink is served with precision and flair, making it as visually stunning as it is flavourful.
Even teetotallers will find their special something here. The bar boasts a range of mocktails and zero-proof drinks that is just as ambitious, with the same attention to nuance.
Food Pairings and the Ivy Connection
The most significant selling point of Varley Cocktail Bar is perhaps how seamlessly connected it is to Ivy and Varley Salt Lake City. Guests get the best of both worlds: upscale dining options out of Ivy's kitchen, expertly paired with craft cocktails from Varley's bar. Both spaces boast a cohesive aesthetic and an aligned vision for quality and creativity.
Pair your cocktails with shareable bites or a full dinner off of Ivy's menu, including items like charcuterie boards, sliders, flatbreads, and fresh salads. Together, great food and standout drinks make it a complete, satisfying evening without ever needing to leave the building.
Events & Private Functions
Beyond the regular bar service, Ivy and Varley SLC also have a range of unique opportunities for private events and celebrations. Whether it's a birthday, corporate get-together, or intimate party, the team will provide customized service and curated menus to fit your occasion. Flexible and stylish, this setting ensures that every event is special, from the smallest of occasions to much larger affairs.
What Locals Love
For many locals, Varley Cocktail Bar SLC has become one of the only spots in downtown Salt Lake City to unwind in style. The world-class cocktails, inviting ambiance, and friendly service hold it in high regard for everything from after-work drinks to nights out and weekend romps.
A number of people enjoy the flavour of metropolitan sophistication it brings to Utah while maintaining a relaxed vibe. Why You Should Visit If you love great cocktails and the thought of discovering a thoughtfully designed space, Varley Cocktail Bar SLC is simply a must.
It embodies everything that now makes the nightlife scene of this city exciting: creativity, craftsmanship, and connection. Whether you come in for a drink or stay for the night, the experience will be one to remember. Final Sip Ivy and Varley Salt Lake City have been cornerstones of modern dining and mixology in Utah. Together, they show that great design, real hospitality, and a passion for craft can combine in a truly special way. Next time you are downtown, step inside Varley Cocktail Bar SLC, where every cocktail has its story and every sip raises a toast to the art of creativity.