Introducing Salt Lake City's East Central Neighborhood:
Salt Lake City's East Central neighborhood is defined by the 9th & 9th neighborhood shopping district. The area is one of Salt Lake's artistic hubs and is a popular spot for writers, artists and film makers.
Who Lives in East Central?:
The residents of East Central are either students, temporary renters or long-time homeowners. There is a mix of the bohemian artist, the GLBT community and ethnic groups.
What's Unique About East Central?:
What isn't unique? The 9th & 9th district hosts 9 Muse statues sculpted by Troy Pillow, designed to inspire the artists who flock to this area. An adult-themed gift store - Cahoots and a boutique for animals - The Yuppy Puppy, are just examples of the eclectic nature of this area. This neighborhood is within walking distance of Trolley Square, TRAX and downtown.
Things to Do:
The Tower Theatre is an official venue for the Sundance Film Festival. The Salt Lake Film Society owns and operates this theatre. Gay Movie Night is held here twice a month and some midnight showings are free. Tower Theatre is home to foreign films, independent art movies and lecture series hosting screenwritesr, directors and actors.
Take a neighborhood tour and peruse the 9 Muse statues by Troy Pillow on the four corners of 900 East and 900 South.
Good Eats:
The Coffee Garden carries scones and brews some fabulous joe. Across the street is the Golden Harvest Bakery and Smith's Food & Drug has a small cafe.
But, the crown jewel of neighborhood restaurants is Mazza Middle Eastern Cafe. Try Lebanese food and pour a glass of wine in the heart of this unique neighborhood.
Other Establishments:
Rowland Hall St. Mark's school is Salt Lake's premiere private Catholic school. Nearby is Bennion Elementary and the Salt Lake Regional Hospital.
Events & Entertainment:
Each year the East Central Community Council hosts the annual Utah AIDS Walk for Life event down the middle of 9th & 9th. They close the entire street for food vendors and booths to raise money for the Utah AIDS Foundation.
How to Get to East Central:
Take I80 East or West to the 700 East exit and go north until you reach 900 South. Go east to 900 East.
If you're coming from Foothill Boulevard, head down 400 South to 1100 East and turn left. Continue until you reach 900 South and turn right to 900 East.