SLC airport welcomes two Park City favorites: Hugo Coffee and Vessel Kitchen

A rendering of the Vessel Kitchen space. Photo: Courtesy of SLC International Airport

Vessel Kitchen's founders have tried to redefine casual dining

PARK CITY, Utah — Vessel Kitchen, a Utah-born restaurant that opened in Park City in 2016, opened its seventh location at the Salt Lake City International Airport on Oct.6.

Since its inception, Vessel Kitchen’s founders — Nick Gradinger, Brian Reeder, and Roe’e Levy — have tried to redefine casual dining.

After a rigorous multi-year process, Vessel Kitchen emerged victorious among a pool of 70 competitors, securing the highly sought-after spot in Concourse A of the newly remodeled airport. This coveted space will now serve as the backdrop for bringing the local charm and flavor of Vessel to a global hub.

“The fact that we have been entrusted with the opportunity to represent the Utah restaurant scene in our beautiful new airport is an absolute honor,” Gradinger said in a press release. “We’ve been working on this project in some capacity for over four years. To be so close to seeing this dream realized and to be afforded the opportunity to introduce the Vessel experience to travelers from around the world is truly surreal. And for it to be so closely aligned with our seventh anniversary makes this that much sweeter.”

In addition, another Park City-based business opened on Oct.31 in Concourse A, Hugo Coffee Roasters. Known for their dedication to quality and their mission to support animal rescue organizations, Hugo Coffee Roasters has become a beloved and respected brand in the world of coffee.

“I am so excited that millions of travelers will be exposed to Hugo Coffee,” said Claudia McMullin, founder-owner of Hugo. “The more coffee we sell, the more animals we save. Hugo would be so proud!”

Hugo is the company’s late mascot dog.