"I’m just trying to make the world a little bit better through food.” That has been Ian Brandt’s guiding principle from the start. For over two decades, he has been at the forefront of Salt Lake City’s plant-based dining movement, driven not by profit, but by a deep commitment to the planet, the animals, and the people who share it. Vertical Deli, his newest venture opened in June 2025, is the latest expression of that mission - this time, with a drive-through window and a focus on speed, convenience, and community.

“The address was 666 South State Street. I said, ‘Let’s go first thing in the morning.’ That’s too good to pass up.” When Andrew Earley stumbled upon the now-iconic location of Mark of the Beastro, it was the address that first grabbed him. The tongue-in-cheek name followed soon after, a nod to the playful spirit he wanted to cultivate - one part punk rock, one part art haven. What began as a full-service vegan restaurant in 2019 has since transformed into a cozy and welcoming café - one that shares its walls, and soul, with a vibrant performance venue known as The Beehive.

“I have been doing this since I was eighteen. I am sixty now. We just keep going because we love it, and because this is our fate.” Anna Tran, owner of Oh Mai, never set out to become a restaurateur, but food has always been central to her family’s story.

“My grandma Rosa made everything with love. Watching her cook was like watching someone do magic with their hands - and it stuck with me.” Chris Blatchford, owner of Blatch’s BBQ, might not have realized it at the time, but those early years in San Diego watching his grandmother create Mexican dishes from scratch left a lasting impression.

“It has been a twenty-six-year revolution of veganism. I have seen it through my eyes in my own business.” Ian Brandt reflected on his journey from operating a food cart to owning one of Salt Lake City’s beloved vegan establishments, Vertical Diner. Ian’s love for culinary gems was nurtured by his parents who favored lesser-known restaurants.