“I wanted Casot to feel like a neighborhood tavern rather than a prestigious wine bar.” First came Pago where Scott Evans initially put his philosophy into practice, introducing Salt Lake City diners to his vision of seasonal, farm-to-table food served without unnecessary formality. Finca followed and became his love letter to Spain, and then Casot, the intimate wine bar beside it, which feels more personal - almost like Scott’s living room.

“What I fell in love with was tapas culture - sharing dishes, smaller plates, lots more food, cocktails, wine, gin tonics.” For Scott Evans, Finca began with Spain. Long before opening the restaurant, Scott spent a month traveling through Spain during a four-month backpacking journey across Europe.

“I would have dreams about food as a young boy.” Ali Sabbah was born in Lebanon, and when he talks about the country of his childhood, his voice still carries the tenderness of what it was before everything changed. “It was lovely… before the Civil War. It was a beautiful place.” He loved to read and he loved to draw. He was not a sports kid. He was the boy who noticed details, who could lose himself in a page or a sketch, and who was quietly absorbing tastes and aromas that would stay with him across continents, as he continued to imagine opening Mazza Middle Eastern Cuisine.

“Alan Galeano is the kind of person everyone should have in their life,” says Jonas Piraquive, co-owner, and manager of Mi Buena Vida. Jonas and Alan's shared vision goes beyond delicious food - creating a space where customers feel at home, and employees are valued. It is, therefore, not surprising that this vibrant Mexican restaurant quickly became a community favorite in Salt Lake City since its opening in December 2022.

“The best part of being here is knowing we’re building something lasting,” shared Anne Holman, current owner of The King’s English Bookshop. “It is a space where people can browse, connect, and discover. Bookstores like ours help us all see the world a bit more clearly.”