Are you in Orem, Utah, and suddenly find yourself battling a serious case of hunger? Tired of the same old cooking routine and yearning for a taste adventure? You’re in luck! Orem’s culinary landscape is more vibrant and diverse than you might think, offering a delicious array of options for every palate and budget. Whether you’re a student at Utah Valley University (UVU), a long-time resident, or just passing through this charming city nestled in the heart of Utah County, finding the perfect place to satisfy your cravings is easier than you imagine.
This guide is your passport to the best food near Orem, designed to help you navigate the local scene and discover your new favorite restaurants. Forget endlessly scrolling through review sites; we’ve curated a list of top spots, highlighting their specialties and what makes them truly stand out. Get ready to explore a world of flavors right here in Orem! From casual bites to more upscale dining experiences, we’ll delve into the culinary gems that make Orem a surprisingly delectable destination. The goal is simple: to provide you with all the information you need to make informed decisions and enjoy a fantastic meal.
Orem’s growing population and proximity to both UVU and Provo have contributed to a burgeoning restaurant scene. You’ll find a wide selection of restaurants offering a broad range of options, making it an ideal location for those with adventurous tastes, or those just wanting some comfort food.
Let’s dive in and discover the delicious possibilities that await you!
American Comfort Food Favorites
Sometimes, all you crave is a classic American meal. Think juicy burgers, crispy fries, hearty sandwiches, and that undeniable diner charm. Orem delivers on this front with several excellent options that serve up comfort food done right.
The Burger Stop
A local favorite, The Burger Stop is known for its generous portions and customizable burgers. You can build your own masterpiece with a variety of toppings and sauces, or opt for one of their signature creations. Don’t forget to pair your burger with their crispy onion rings or sweet potato fries. The price range is generally affordable, making it a great option for a casual lunch or dinner.
Training Table
While technically in Provo, its proximity makes it an Orem go-to. Training Table is legendary for its burgers and special sauce, which is what they are known for. The price range is moderate, and you can customize your burgers.
R&R BBQ
For some authentic BBQ, R&R BBQ is your go-to destination. R&R BBQ specializes in slow-smoked meats and flavorful sauces, and their ribs, brisket, and pulled pork are cooked to perfection. You can order various sides, and the prices are moderate.
Exploring Mexican and Latin American Flavors
Orem’s Mexican and Latin American food scene is bursting with authentic flavors and vibrant spices. From family-run taquerias to more modern Mexican restaurants, you’ll find a variety of options to satisfy your cravings for tacos, enchiladas, and more.
El Mexiquense
This unassuming spot is a local gem, serving up authentic Mexican dishes that are both flavorful and affordable. Their tacos are a must-try, and their wide range of salsas allows you to customize the heat level to your liking. Don’t miss their homemade horchata! Prices are very reasonable.
Costa Vida
A chain that originated nearby, Costa Vida features bowls, tacos, enchiladas, and more with locations around the country, but began as a local gem. The prices are moderate.
A Taste of Asia: Diverse Culinary Delights
If you’re in the mood for Asian cuisine, Orem offers a diverse range of options, from Japanese sushi to Chinese stir-fries and Thai curries. Explore the diverse flavors of the Asian continent without leaving Orem.
Happy Sumo Sushi Bar & Grill
For sushi lovers, Happy Sumo is a popular choice. They offer a wide selection of fresh sushi rolls, as well as other Japanese dishes like teriyaki and tempura. The atmosphere is lively and fun, making it a great spot for a group outing. Prices range from moderate to high, depending on your order.
Thai Village
Enjoy the exotic flavors of Thailand at Thai Village. This restaurant is known for its flavorful curries, noodle dishes, and stir-fries. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, making it a great place for a romantic dinner. Prices are generally moderate.
CupBop Korean BBQ
Another popular spot for Orem diners, CupBop features Korean BBQ in cups, and offers a variety of levels of spiciness. The prices are generally moderate.
Pizza and Italian Delights
Pizza is always a crowd-pleaser, and Orem has a variety of pizza parlors to choose from. You’ll also find a few excellent Italian restaurants serving up classic pasta dishes and other Italian specialties.
Pizza Pie Cafe
With multiple locations, Pizza Pie Cafe offers a variety of pizza options, and all-you-can-eat pizza and salad bar at affordable prices.
Papa John’s
A worldwide chain, Papa John’s offers pizzas, sides, and desserts at various prices, and offers online order and delivery services.
Healthy Options for a Guilt-Free Meal
For those seeking healthier choices, Orem has a growing number of restaurants that focus on fresh, nutritious meals. Look for salads, bowls, vegetarian and vegan options, and lighter fare.
Zupas
Zupas is a regional chain offering soups, salads, sandwiches, and bowls at a moderate price point.
Jamba Juice
Jamba Juice is a national chain featuring smoothies, juices, and bowls for the health-conscious. The price point is affordable.
Indulge Your Sweet Tooth: Dessert Destinations
No meal is complete without a sweet treat! Orem has a variety of ice cream shops, bakeries, and donut shops to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream
This unique ice cream shop flash freezes your custom ice cream creation with liquid nitrogen, creating a super smooth and creamy texture. It’s a fun and interactive experience that’s perfect for all ages. Prices are slightly higher than traditional ice cream shops.
Crumbl Cookies
Crumbl Cookies is a wildly popular bakery that offers a rotating menu of gourmet cookies. Each week, they feature a new selection of flavors, from classic chocolate chip to more adventurous creations. Be prepared for long lines, especially on weekends! Prices are moderate.
Start Your Day Right: Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Orem has several excellent spots to enjoy a delicious breakfast or brunch. From classic pancakes and waffles to more creative breakfast dishes, you’ll find something to satisfy your morning cravings.
Waffle Love
A local favorite, Waffle Love serves up gourmet waffles with a variety of sweet and savory toppings. Their waffles are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, and their creative topping combinations are sure to impress. Prices are moderate.
Black Bear Diner
This national chain is a popular option, serving classic breakfasts, lunches, and dinners at a mid-range price.
Unique and Local Favorites: Hidden Gems to Discover
Beyond the chain restaurants and well-known spots, Orem is home to a few unique and local favorites that are worth seeking out. These hidden gems offer something special and are often highly recommended by locals.
Seven Brothers Burgers
This local chain features Hawaiian-inspired burgers, and offers a unique twist on burgers for a moderate price.
Los Hermanos
This locally owned and operated Mexican restaurant is located in Provo but has been a long-time local favorite.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Restaurant
With so many options to choose from, deciding where to eat in Orem can be a bit overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect restaurant for your needs:
Consider your budget: Orem has restaurants in a range of prices.
Think about the occasion: Are you looking for a quick and casual bite, or a more upscale dining experience?
Read online reviews: Check out Yelp, Google Reviews, and other review sites to see what other diners have to say about a restaurant.
Verify hours and location: Be sure to check the restaurant’s hours of operation and location before you go.
Conclusion: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Orem’s food scene is a surprisingly vibrant and diverse landscape, offering a wide range of culinary experiences to suit every taste and budget. From classic American comfort food to exotic Asian flavors and everything in between, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings.
So, get out there and explore! Discover your new favorite restaurant, try a dish you’ve never had before, and experience the culinary delights that Orem has to offer. Be sure to check online reviews before you go, and consider your budget.
We invite you to share your favorite restaurants in Orem in the comments below. And be sure to check back for updates and new restaurant reviews as we continue to explore the ever-evolving food scene near Orem.
Orem is truly a hidden gem for food lovers. Get ready to embark on a delicious adventure!
