Z’ Tejas

Southwestern Grill
191 S. Rio Grande St.
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Gateway Food Court

Situated at the entry to the Gateway food plaza is the Z’ Tejas Southwestern Grill. With all the current construction in downtown Salt Lake, the most convenient mode of transportation is TRAX. Z’ Tejas can be quite busy on the weekends, but because it’s located close to the University of Utah campus, it can be the perfect choice for lunch appointment. The doors open at 11 am. You’ll have the restaurant all to yourself until about noon when the office crowd starts to arrive.

As soon as you walk in the door, you’ll immediately see the Texas flag hanging prominently against the back wall, reminding you of the restaurant’s Texan roots. The Texan paraphernalia, the sleek layout of the establishment and the soft country music playing in the background create an enticing southwestern experience.

We started with the chips and salsa appetizer, which arrived quickly with our two large glasses of ice water. Chances are that you’ll be sufficiently hydrated after cooling the palate after each successive dip into one of the three tasty salsa dishes.

“Most people come here for our enchiladas or tacos,” our waiter informed us. Variations of these two items comprise most of the surprisingly short menu. You will also find a short list of salads, soups and sandwiches. We ordered the Diablo Chicken Pasta and the Blackened Catfish Enchiladas. During the short wait we were treated to a complimentary serving of sweet cornbread. There was a slight mix-up with my order but it was promptly corrected.

The two Blackened Catfish Enchiladas were glazed with a delectable melted cream cheese sauce, served with the classic combination of rice and beans. Those wary of seafood should not be immediately dissuaded from this entrée. The catfish was tasty without being overwhelming. The Diablo Chicken Pasta was not nearly as spicy as the name implies and the succulent chicken was a pleasant complement for the delicious pasta noodles.

The dessert menu includes various cobblers and cakes that varies from day to day. Ask your waiter for details.

Hours: 11 am to 11 pm Sunday through Thursday, 11 am to midnight Friday and Saturday
Average Meal Price: $10.00

Originally published in the Century magazine