7 Shocking Secrets Behind Back Door On Edison: Salt Lake City’s Most Exclusive Speakeasy Revealed
For those searching for the true meaning of "Back Door on Edison," the answer is far more intriguing than a simple street address; it is the name of one of Salt Lake City's most vibrant and sophisticated speakeasy-style cocktail lounges. As of December 2025, this establishment remains a premier destination for those seeking an intimate, high-quality nightlife experience, purposefully tucked away on a historic downtown street to maintain its exclusive, hidden-gem status. This is not just a bar; it is a carefully crafted experience, an extension of the beloved Laziz Kitchen, and a venue with a powerful mission that goes beyond signature drinks and Lebanese-inspired bites.
The allure of this specific "back door" lies in its intentional secrecy, echoing the prohibition-era establishments it emulates. Nestled down an alleyway off Edison Street, the venue—often referred to as Back Door SLC—has cemented its place in the Utah capital's burgeoning nightlife scene. The speakeasy concept is a deliberate choice by co-owners Derek Kitchen and Blake Hannon, aiming to introduce a sophisticated new concept that honors the rich history of the street while offering a cozy, intimate spot for patrons to enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and a unique culinary fusion.
The Genesis: From Lebanese Cuisine to a Hidden Cocktail Sanctuary
The story of Back Door on Edison is inextricably linked to its sister business, Laziz Kitchen. The founders, Derek Kitchen and Blake Hannon, first opened Laziz Kitchen, a highly-regarded Lebanese restaurant, in 2016. This initial venture laid the groundwork for a unique business model that prioritized community and social impact.
1. The Unexpected Origin of the Speakeasy Concept
Back Door on Edison was officially born out of a desire to utilize a space adjacent to the Laziz Kitchen location. The owners saw an opportunity to create a sophisticated, adults-only environment that complemented the restaurant's vibrant energy but offered a different kind of experience. The concept was to create a cozy, speakeasy-style cocktail lounge, a place where the focus was on high-quality craft cocktails and an intimate atmosphere.
2. A Partnership with a Powerful Social Mission
One of the most unique aspects of the business is its deep-rooted commitment to social responsibility. Laziz Kitchen, and by extension Back Door, maintains a strong partnership with the International Rescue Committee (IRC). This collaboration is central to their operation, focusing on hiring refugees and New Americans, providing them with employment opportunities and a pathway to integration within the Salt Lake City community. This mission makes a visit to the lounge a socially conscious choice.
3. The Co-Owner Connection: Derek Kitchen and Blake Hannon
Co-owner Derek Kitchen is a well-known figure in the Salt Lake City area, not only as a successful restaurateur but also for his involvement in local politics, having served as a member of the Salt Lake City Council and the Utah State Senate. This profile adds a layer of community engagement to the business, reinforcing its local roots and commitment to the area's development. Blake Hannon, the other co-owner, has been instrumental in shaping the sophisticated and inviting atmosphere of the lounge.
Decoding the Back Door Experience: Ambiance, Location, and Entry
The true magic of Back Door on Edison lies in its execution of the speakeasy theme, making the journey to find it part of the adventure. The location on Edison Street, a historic area in downtown SLC, provides the perfect backdrop for a prohibition-era-inspired establishment.
4. The Literal "Back Door" Entrance
The name "Back Door on Edison" is not figurative; it is a literal description of the entrance. The lounge is deliberately hidden from the main street view, nestled down an alleyway behind the main Laziz Kitchen building. Patrons must navigate the alley to find the discreet entrance, a feature that enhances the feeling of exclusivity and discovery. This hidden entrance is a key element that attracts both locals and tourists seeking a unique experience in the SLC nightlife scene.
5. An Intimate, Cozy Speakeasy Vibe
Once inside, the atmosphere shifts dramatically. The space is often described as intimate and cozy, a stark contrast to larger, louder bars. The decor typically features dim lighting, comfortable seating, and a sophisticated design that evokes a sense of stepping back in time. This intimate spot is specifically designed for conversation and enjoying the finer points of a craft cocktail, making it ideal for a date night or a small gathering of friends.
6. The Focus on Craft Cocktails and Local Spirits
The core offering of Back Door is its exquisite cocktail program. The menu features a rotating selection of signature cocktails that are expertly prepared by knowledgeable bartenders. A significant emphasis is placed on using local spirits, which supports Utah's growing distillery scene and ensures the drinks are fresh and regionally inspired. The creation of these bespoke drinks is an art form, solidifying the lounge’s reputation as a premier craft cocktail destination. The drinks are known to be irreverent and inventive.
The Culinary Fusion: Lebanese Bites and Signature Drinks
What truly sets Back Door on Edison apart from other speakeasies in Salt Lake City is its unique culinary connection. The fusion of a high-end cocktail lounge with Lebanese-inspired bar food creates an unforgettable pairing.
7. Lebanese-Inspired Bar Bites from Laziz Kitchen
The food menu is a direct extension of Laziz Kitchen, offering high-quality, Lebanese-inspired bar bites that are perfect for pairing with the signature cocktails. This culinary fusion provides a unique taste experience that you won't find in typical downtown SLC bars. Patrons can enjoy flavorful appetizers and small plates that reflect the rich culinary traditions of the Middle East, making the experience both a cocktail adventure and a mini-culinary journey.
Key Entities and Topical Keywords:
- Locations: Salt Lake City (SLC), Edison Street, Downtown SLC, Utah, Laziz Kitchen, 152 E. 200 South.
- Concepts: Speakeasy, Craft Cocktails, Signature Drinks, Intimate Lounge, Hidden Gem, SLC Nightlife, Lebanese Bites, Culinary Fusion, Prohibition Era, Bar Scene.
- People/Organizations: Derek Kitchen (Co-owner), Blake Hannon (Co-owner), International Rescue Committee (IRC), New Americans.
- Experience: Cozy Atmosphere, Sophisticated Design, Unique Charm, Local Spirits, Expert Bartenders, Social Mission, Community Engagement.
Back Door on Edison successfully blends the mystique of a hidden speakeasy with a modern commitment to social impact and high-quality libations. It stands as a testament to the evolving and sophisticated Salt Lake City nightlife. Whether you are searching for a quiet, intimate spot for a drink or an establishment that supports a powerful community mission, the "back door" on Edison Street offers a rewarding secret worth discovering. Its consistent feature in local publications, including recent Salt Lake Magazine issues in 2025, confirms its status as a relevant and must-visit destination.
Detail Author:
- Name : Mrs. Meagan Wilderman
- Username : valentina44
- Email : ikemmer@gmail.com
- Birthdate : 1990-05-02
- Address : 20276 Deshawn Green Suite 031 East Willietown, NC 44701
- Phone : (650) 837-5061
- Company : McGlynn and Sons
- Job : Industrial Engineering Technician
- Bio : Quae quasi blanditiis eum ut. Similique consequatur est voluptatem.
Socials
facebook:
- url : https://facebook.com/jaquan_gutkowski
- username : jaquan_gutkowski
- bio : Voluptate saepe quam ipsa deserunt. Architecto quas nemo et neque eveniet.
- followers : 5589
- following : 1004
instagram:
- url : https://instagram.com/jaquan5100
- username : jaquan5100
- bio : Hic nostrum nemo quasi facilis est. Deleniti sapiente voluptas omnis et.
- followers : 4542
- following : 954
tiktok:
- url : https://tiktok.com/@jaquangutkowski
- username : jaquangutkowski
- bio : Laborum animi qui sed consequatur beatae. Culpa esse eum accusamus rerum velit.
- followers : 6631
- following : 987
linkedin:
- url : https://linkedin.com/in/jgutkowski
- username : jgutkowski
- bio : Aut totam est architecto fugit.
- followers : 2159
- following : 2793
