The first time I went to Z'Tejas Southwestern Grill was with a friend that worked in the downtown area. I had seen the restaurant several times while wondering Gateway Mall but had never stopped in. I'm so glad she chose it for our lunch destination.
Z'Tejas opened it's doors in 2001 in Utah. It is a national chain with locations in Utah, Arizona, California, Texas & Washington. Utah has just the one location in Gateway Mall, downstairs from the Megaplex theaters.
The first thing to mention is the Cornbread, it alone is reason to go. I find myself having occasional cravings for it. Every table receives a cast iron pan of this tasty fresh baked appetizer. The cornbread and Z'Tejas TORTILLA SOUP that is made with roasted chicken, avocados, Jack and cheddar cheeses, make a satisfying and frugal lunch. (Cup $5.00 Bowl $6.00)
Myself, I go for the Tableside Guacamole. It's freshly made at your table with avocados, tomatoes, red onions, cilantro, jalapeños, pumpkin seeds and Cotija cheese, served with fresh chips ($10.50). One could share this with your dining foodie companions, there is plenty to go around, but I gotta tell you, I eat the whole finger licking bowl by myself and usually get a salad to incorporate it on.
For this particular outing, my menu choice was the GRILLED SALMON SALAD, mixed greens tossed with a sun-dried tomato vinaigrette, topped with grilled salmon, spicy walnuts and goat cheese. ($13.50). I'll tell you now, Salmon is a dish I'm a bit fussy about, (as fussy as one living in Utah can be) and while you will likely never find Salmon as delicious as that along the coast here in Utah, I don't hesitate to order it at Z'Tejas. They even ask you “what temperature you want that cooked at”. Oh yes, properly prepared, medium rare salmon at a moderately priced restaurant, that's what I'm talking about. The MISO GLAZED SALMON ($15.95) is also an excellent choice for my fellow salmon loving readers.
Hubs stepped out of his meat and potato comfort zone and chose the STEAK BURRITO it's stuffed with seared beef tenderloin, Jack cheese and salsa fresca, topped with New Mexico green chile sauce, served with green chile rice ($11.05). He requested black beans as opposed to the rice and was easily accommodated with the special order. The portion size will satisfy any big appetite, he enjoyed every bite.
With Z'Tejas close proximity to the theaters, Energy Solutions, Clark Planetarium and other Downtown happenings, I would not hesitate to put this restaurant on your date night plans. I've eaten there many times, since my excursion with my friend and they have never disappointed.
Coupon offers for Z'Tejas Southwestern Grill:
Even though Z'Tejas is a chain they do offer goods for the locals. Currently, when you wear Utah JAZZ colors to Z‘Tejas or show your JAZZ ticket on the night of of any 2012/13 season JAZZ home game you’ll score 20% off your meal! No coupon is needed just be sure to sport your JAZZ team love and mention the promotion. Go here for the JAZZ schedule.
Sign-up for the Z'Tejas email club and you'll receive an email for 15% off your next meal the month after you join. Plus, you'll get a $10 coupon to use towards any meal during your birthday month.
Follow on Facebook for various offers.
Menu price range is $12-$17 per entree. Z Tejas has full bar selections and is well known for their Chambord and Pepper Mellon Margaritas.
Enjoy the Moments!
Tonya Poulter says
November 24, 2012 at 11:33 pmTasty food 🙂
Never been, but may just have to take your cornbread recommendation.