Drinking Laws Loosen in Utah
Park City's main street (Latham Jenkins/courtesy, Park City CVB)
As anyone who’s been to Utah (or rather, a bar or restaurant in Utah) knows, the state has got some of the most peculiar and strict drinking laws in the country. But that's all about to change. Starting today, July 1, 2009, the Utah Legislature will no longer require clubs and bars to charge their customers a "membership" fee for entry. This fee was effectively a cover charge that lasted for only three weeks if you were not already a member or couldn't get a member to “sponsor” you. Consider this a huge feat, especially if you're like me and hate paying for anything other than your drinks.
This decision follows last year's adjustment when single shots increased from 1 to 1.5 ounces, the accepted amount for a shot.
Bill Malone, CEO and President of the Park City Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, believes that with all these new changes, "guests will no longer be able to use antiquated alcohol rules as a reason to shy away from a Park City vacation, meeting or convention."
Wondering where the best spots are to get a drink, now that it's so much easier to stroll into a bar in Utah? We've found the best places to quench your thirst in the state's various ski resort towns, in and around Salt Lake City and Park City.
BONUS: Click after the jump for a recipe for a great drink for summer, concocted by a local Park City bartender.
In honor of this libation liberation, we offer the St. Germain Elderflower recipe, crafted by Deer Valley Resort bartender Bonnie Ulmer. Her recipe was the winner of Park City’s fourth-annual Libation Nation cocktail contest, and will be Park City’s “official” drink for 2009. Look for her refreshing mixture at participating restaurants and bars throughout the city. Or make it at home yourself!
St. Germain Elderflower Recipe
-3 oz Prosecco (Italian Sparkling Wine)
-1.5 oz St. Germain Elderflower liqueur
-1.5 oz sparkling water
-Spring of fresh mint
-Lemon zest
Fill a tall Collins glass with ice. Add Prosecco, Elderflower liqueur, and sparkling water. Stir well and garnish with fresh mint and lemon zest.
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