Draper’s dining scene is heating up with a wave of exciting new restaurants, ready to tantalize your taste buds. From barbecue sandwiches to Thai curries, the city’s culinary landscape is evolving, offering an array of fresh flavors and unique dining experiences. 

These eateries promise to deliver unforgettable meals, whether you’re in the mood for international cuisine or farm-to-table freshness. Let’s explore the newest culinary gems making Draper a must-visit destination for food lovers.

Les BBQ, 12059 S. State Street 

Les Rhodes, Jr., was born and raised in Texas where barbecue is an art form. His passion for smoking meats and creating delectable barbecue items prompted him to open Les BBQ earlier this year. The menu is filled with authentic Texas barbecue meats, including his best-selling Candy Red Oxtails. Customers can also have Les’s famous smoked meats, sauces, seasonings and merchandise shipped right to their door for fun family events. Learn more at LesBBQ.com.

Sushi Bomb, 196 W. 12300 South

Described on the website as “Sushi so good, it’ll blow you away,” Sushi Bomb invites you to indulge in fresh sashimi, mouthwatering rolls and delicious sushi platters. With unique items like the Ninja Jalapeno (deep-fried jalapenos filled with cream cheese and crab salad), the Fuji roll with salmon, avocado, scallions and tobiko, or the Wasatch roll featuring yellowtail, salmon, and cucumber topped with spicy mayo, customers have lots to choose from. Go to SushiBomSushi.com to learn more. 

Tuk Tuk’s, 541 E. 12300 South 

Draper is the second location for this popular Thai restaurant that started in West Valley. Named after the three-wheeled motorized rickshaw taxis popular in Thailand, Tuk Tuk’s features authentic Lao and Thai cuisine. The menu includes Thai chicken wings, panang curry with salmon, drunken noodles, fried papaya salad and more. Visit tuktuks-slc.com for more info. 

Pork N’ Roll, 541 E. 12300 South

Pork N’ Roll’s menu features items that combine American vibes with Colombian flair. Boasting the “Best Pork Belly Bowls,” the Chicharron bowl includes yellow potatoes topped with pork belly, melted cheese and garlic sauce. Pork N’ Roll also serves empanadas, plantain bowls, tacos and burgers on brioche buns. Customers say the cevicharron, a pork belly ceviche, is not to be missed. For a complete menu visit cashdrop.com/pork-n-roll. 

Arepon Venezolano, 656 E. 11400 South

Venezuelan cuisine takes center stage at Arepon Venezolano, a favorite restaurant in Orem that recently expanded to Draper. The unique menu includes Tostones (fried plantains) with Venezuelan cheese, more than a dozen empanada options, myriad arepas (a flatbread stuffed with tasty fillings), cachapas (savory-sweet and cheesy corn pancakes). Special dishes include a Creole breakfast, a roast chicken lunch and the Tequeburger (tapas filled with cheese, hamburger meat, cabbage, ham, bacon and sauce). Visit arepontogo.com to learn more. 

Honest Eatery, 11483 S. State Street

The Honest Eatery is excited to invite Draper residents to try the diverse menu options at this restaurant’s newest location. Fresh açaí bowls, paninis and power toast served on organic sourdough bread are just a few of the foods customers have come to love. The Honest Eatery also makes protein shakes and superfood smoothies to power you through your day. For those in a rush, grab-and-go options include natural juices, coconut water, gluten-free brownies and protein power bites. Eatathonest.com is the place to go for more information. 

Little Thai Kitchen, 185 E. 12300 South

This fast-casual Thai restaurant prepares each dish like it’s for a family member, offering fresh, authentic Thai favorites. Little Thai Kitchen has lunch combo specials starting at $9.99 (Monday-Friday, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.) with full-service dining at 4 p.m. Chef specials include a spicy pineapple curry and crispy orange chicken. For pho lovers, the special house broth with noodles, veggies and a choice of meat is a delectable treat. Be sure to save room for creamy coconut or Thai tea ice cream. Go to littlethaikitchenutah.com for a full menu. λ