Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, celebrated each May, honors the rich history, culture, and contributions of AANHPI communities across the United States. For Real Salt Lake, it’s a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the diversity that strengthens both the club and the broader Utah community.
That said, it’s not always easy to know how to thoughtfully honor AANHPI Heritage Month and recognize the accomplishments of those in our communities. With so many meaningful ways to celebrate, figuring out where to begin can feel overwhelming—but don’t worry, we’ve got you.
A great way to honor and celebrate AANHPI Month is to support locally owned Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander–owned businesses in your community—from restaurants and cafés to markets, boutiques, and service-based businesses. If you don’t know where to start, here are some fantastic examples in the state of Utah that deserve a visit. Some may be just around the corner from you!
Located in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, Beer Bar, known amongst RSL faithful and owned by RSL legend Nick Rimando offers the Claret-and-Cobalt a place to gather whilst RSL battles on the road. Open seven days a week, Beer Bar is the perfect place to enjoy any sporting event with friends and family on any of its four projector screens. Offering food made in-house from scratch, Beer Bar offers quality and variety for all. Head on over to Beer Bar after the 2026 FIFA World Cup Break to cheer on RSL amongst other fans as the Claret-and-Cobalt take on LAFC on July 22nd.
Recommended by RSL Legend and Real Monarchs Goalkeeping Coach Nick Rimando
Owned by Takashi Gibo, award-winning chef and father-in-law to RSL legend and Assistant General Manager Tony Beltran, his restaurant has kept Salt Lake City foodies coming back since its establishment in 2004. Takashi has frequently been named the best Japanese and sushi destination in various local dining awards, including multiple “State of the Plate” wins and “Fabby Awards”. On weeknights, typically Wednesday and Thursday, the restaurant offers “Omakase Nights” at the neighboring Post Office Place, which “showcases the highest levels of creativity, innovation, and expression that [the] chefs have to offer.
Recommended by RSL defender Sam Junqua
The Cotton Bottom offers visitors a classic “dive bar” experience showcasing its relaxed outdoor social scene perfect for a laid-back meal and drinks with friends and family. Known for its famous garlic burger, which has been the restaurant’s signature since its re-opening in 2020 after being purchased by the Bar X group, turning a Holladay City historic bar into a family oriented restaurant. The menu is intentionally simple consisting of burgers, sandwiches, fries crafted for the perfect summer night.
Recommended by RSL Legend and Real Monarchs Goalkeeping Coach Nick Rimando
Located in Salt Lake City, and owned by chef Eric Park, Momomaru serves hand rolled sushi “the way they’re meant to be”. Fresh fish, warm rice, crisp nori, all rolled to order. The dine in service offers standard seating or up on the counter where you can watch the chiefs delicately craft each and every roll. Momomaru is the perfect location for a chill night out with great eats.
Recommended by RSL defender Sam Junqua
