Provo Food Favorites.

It's been just over a year since we moved our family to the small business food capital of Utah, and Provo does not disappoint in providing some of the yummiest restaurants around. Being a MAJOR foodie... I absolutely love it and have put together a little list (OK so there are NINE) of my FAVORITE food & drink hot spots you've gotta try if you're down in P-Town. 
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Drinks & Desserts: Sodalicious

Let's be honest, Sodalicious is more like my FOURTH child.  Everyone knows I'm a big Dr. Pepper fan and growing up with a soda fountain in my house, POP is definitely my weakness.  Turns out I moved to a community wide sober town where instead of BARS on every corner, we have Soda Shops and luckily for me, SODALICIOUS now has THREE Provo locations.  My go to drink is YOUR MOM which is Dr. Pepper mixed w/Blackberry and Coconut. With some of the most popular sodas and hundreds of flavor options, your drink mixology is limitless. There is a drink and flavor for EVERYONE at Sodalicious.  Create your own, or chose from one of their 60+ pre-mixed concoctions.  Maybe it's the mix of flavors, the pebbled ice, or the Styrofoam cup that keeps my drink cold for hours... but I CANNOT.QUIT.SODALICIOUS. One of my true favorite parts of Sodalicious is the staff. The SodaCrew is like family and they ALWAYS make me and my kiddos feel so special. Whether you're driving around running errands, about to start a road trip or just need a quick "mommy break", Sodalicious is the place to fuel your day.    Don't forget to grab yourself one of their delicious cookies!  Try the Chocolate Fudge Off The Rails for an extra sweet treat. 
Prices: $1-$3 Address(es):  30 300 N Provo, UT  3376 N University Ave Provo, UT  602 E 600 N Provo, UT 
Rockwell Ice Cream.

Rockwell ice cream is our GO TO spot for some of the yummiest unique flavored ice cream. My all-time favorite flavor is the biscof ice cream that tastes even better in one of their delicious waffle cones.  Try the Muddy Buddy or Lavender Honey ice cream in an Oreo or Pretzel cone for more delicious flavors. Flavors come and go at RockWell making room for new flavors often, so be sure to pop in to see what the current ice cream line up is. The Rockwell members staff are always so friendly, making the best suggestions for the yummiest flavors and letting you sample their newest creations.  Located in historic downtown Provo in one of the most beautiful buildings, Rockwell is a close escape for a quick cool treat.
Prices: $3-$6 Address: 43 N University Ave, Provo, UT 84601
The Mighty Baker

I had the opportunity to listen to Pete Tidwell, of the Mighty Baker, share his journey from having a career in Marketing in New York City to becoming a self-employed bakery owner and Cake Wars 2X winner. Pete's story is one of the reasons I LOVE Provo and LOVE supporting the small business owners who are making their dreams come true.  The Mighty Baker, also conveniently located in Provo across from the Library (a place we frequently visit) has incredible treats and baked goods. As soon as you walk in the door your nose leads you in a handful of directions tying to decide if you'll go for the savory Ham and Cheddar Brioche or the Sweat Salted Caramel Cheesecake. More often than not, you'll buy both and a few others so you can "test them all" and "share" with the kids.  Whatever you choose, you're sure to not be disappointed in your selection and will start to wonder if going back for dinner would be inappropriate.  The Mighty Baker is also well known for their artistic custom cake designs and with just Pete and one other cake designer, the two of them are sure to deliver a stunning wedding cake, birthday celebration cake or company party celebration cake.  If they're not already, PUT THEM AT THE TOP of your list for THE CAKE for your next event.  Just this week they added some more outdoor seating, which will be the perfect place to wrap up your summer or start your school year. 
Price: $3-$10 (In House Baked Goods)  Custom & Wedding/Event Cakes - Starting $250+ Address: 50 E 500 N in Provo, Utah

Lunch & Dinner Joints:
Good Thyme Eatery.

Good Thyme is a fabulous Farm To Table restaurant that offers a seasonal changing menu. With delicious options from sides and salads to proteins and desserts, Good Thyme's menu is full of options for every diet including gluten free, dairy free, nut free, vegan and vegetarian.  Some of my favorite sides include; the mashed potatoes, the citrus salad and pesto pasta.  We're big chicken eaters in our home and the spiced braised chicken was as delicious as any chicken I've ever tasted. The coconut pork was also tender, juicy and had Kevin licking his bowl clean. I am even more excited about the homemade Lemonade Good Thyme makes. The flavors of Lemonade also change with the seasonal menu, but some of our favorite flavors have been the Coconut Lime Lemonade, the Pear Basil Lemonade and the Canyon Breeze Lemonade.  At Good Thyme you can plan on a la carte or a 3 course meal (chefs choice) and either option will leave your bellies full of delicious food.  Price: $10-$15/per person Address: 63 Center St, Provo, UT 84606
180 Tacos.

180 Tacos is my TACO TUESDAY go to shop.  Think of your favorite street taco truck and multiply that by 1000.  The fresh ingredients and mouth-watering flavor combinations in their small house made tortillas will leave you wanting more.   My absolute favorite menu item is Chimichurri Mac 'n Cheese.  I.COULD.EAT.IT.ALL.DAY. Now... You're probably thinking, "Mac N Cheese at a Taco Shop?"  What you should be thinking is, "How come I haven't eaten this PERFECTION before?" Made with cotija, jack and cheddar cheese topped with crunchy wonton chips, this Mac N Cheese is the perfect side or meal if you order two. My favorite tacos include the Old Skool, Baja Fish and Achiote.  Each protein taco is packed with flavor and toppings that make every bite as good as the first.  I believe today is Tuesday, so you're welcome, dinner plans MADE! 
Price: $3.50-$15 Address(es):   227 West Bulldog Boulevard ​Provo, Utah 84604

3368 North University Avenue

​Provo, Utah 84604

Gurus.

Guru's is another unique fresh food grommet dining experience at an affordable price.  From the meat eater, to the plant nibbler, Guru's offers something healthy for every appetite.  Guru's enlightenment philosophy is displayed throughout the restaurant and it's definitely a place to go and chill, occasionally enjoy some live music and eat plentiful food that will leave your bellies full and ready to take on the world.  Some my favorites dishes include; The Marco Polo and Thai Peanut Pastas, The Cilantro Lime Quesadilla, The Southwest Chipotle Wrap and of course, the Sweet Potato Fries. The Sweet Potato fries are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside and drenched in the Southwest Fry Sauce, it's just perfection. Both pastas are packed with fresh veggies, tender grilled chicken and a creamy sauce!  The Cilantro Lime Quesadilla is my all time favorite entree at Guru's. The combination of the Cilantro Lime Pesto with the Feta Cheese will have your taste buds doing back flips!  Slip into Guru's for Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner and you're sure to find something that will keep you coming back 3 times a day. 
Prices: $5-15 Address: 45 Center St, Provo, UT 84606 
Cubbys.

Cubby's is a cute success story about a food enthusiastic couple who had different ideas about what makes food great but did agree that eating out should be affordable, never boring and never sacrifice high-quality healthy food. In 2012 that couple took matters into their own hands and opened Cubby's in Provo. 

Cubby's is a modern and relaxing restaurant with great taste. Their signature Italian Beef and quality packed salads, burgers, sandwiches and sides are made fresh daily, feature fresh local and organic greens/fruits & veggies and never compromise flavor.

My go to choices at Cubby's include; The Tri-Tip Steak Sandwich, The Tri-Tip and Mixed Berry Salads, The Houdini and Dragonslayer Burgers and The Rosemary and Buffalo Blue Cheese Fries. 

I'm pretty sure Tri-Tip is the "meat" of California (if that's a real thing) and being from Sacramento, Tri-Tip was a FAVORITE growing up. Since moving to Utah in 2010, I had YET to find a cut of Tri-Tip that left my mouth watering like the way my mom makes it back home.

 THANK YOU CUBBY'S. 

The slow cooked Tri-Tip in a toasted bun, smothered in garlic butter, BBQ sauce and topped with caramelized onions and bacon is like a unicorn dance party in your mouth.

Both Salads are crisp and topped with a tender protein, delicious fresh fruits/veggies and a flavor packed vinaigrette. 

Cubby's burgers are cooked perfectly to give you that juicy burger bite and both are topped with unique flavorful sauces. 

(Homemade Creamy Buffalo Sauce -Dragonslayer and Garlic Aioli Tarragon - Houdini)

French Fries are great and all... but flavored fries, drenched in more sauces are even better and Cubby's Rosemary and Buffalo Cheese Fries offer both! 

Cubby's has been growing and expanding outside of Provo (because they're freaking amazing), but be sure to stop by their original restaurant off of Bulldog and State next time you're down this way. 

Prices: $3-$11

Address: 1258 N State Street Provo, Utah 84604

Five Sushi Brothers:

I am SO excited to share this Provo food favorite because it's the newest, tastiest, raddest and absolutely my most frequently ordered take out choice this year.  I honestly don't think I can count how many times I've had Five Sushi Brothers because I want to EAT it EVERYDAY.  Lets start from the beginning. DELIVERY.SUSHI! Check their website to see if you're in delivery boundaries and if you are, your life will forever be better. If you're not, feel free to come to my house and use my address for your delivery. I only charge a small, one roll, house fee.  With just 11 sushi roll options (+ a few sides/dessert options) it's easy to choose that roll (or two... or three) to kick that rice, seaweed and fish craving every sushi lover gets often.  My favorite rolls are; Dylan from Vegas, Bandies, Band Manager and Lil Bro. Each roll is made with fresh ingredients to give you quality sushi every time.  Not only is the sushi delicious, it's affordable. Another super mega PLUS for FSB is that they can offer a quality roll that won't break your bank.  Make sure to give Five Sushi Brothers a try! Their goal to eliminate the frustration and stress that comes from typical late night food service options is SPOT ON.  Thanks to FSB no one in Provo has to suffer from nasty, greasy, fast food cardboard when they get the late night munchies. FSB Hours are: Tues-Sat 7pm-12am
Price: $5-$9 Address: 445 Freedom Blvd 200 W, Provo, UT 84601 Order Online for p/u or Delivery: ORDER NOW

Provo's BEST Hidden Secret:  The El Salvador Restaurant.

When my husband and I first started dating, we frequently visited The El Salvador Restaurant nestled in a small 'hole in the wall' location on Center Street.

For seven years now it's been one of our favorite, go to, save a buck, always tastes good dinner choices!  At just $1.90 for a single Pupusa, a couple can eat a filling meal for about $10 and we feed our entire family (including a drink and platanos) for less than $20.  The authentic El Salvadorian food, including Pupusas, corn meal tortillas stuffed with a variety of beans, cheese, pork and topped with curtido (pickled cabbage topping) and salsa sauce, is incredibly delicious. My favorite is the Revueltas (cheese and pork) Another favorite are the platanos (fried bananas).  They add just the right amount of sweet to your savory dinner.  The family-owned business is very welcoming and after watching my husband come in for the last 10 years with a growing family, they're always interested in how we're doing. Definitely gives it that "everyone is family" feel.  (My husband served his mission in El Salvador almost 15 years ago and speaks the language which also makes our relationship with the owners more special) The El Salvador Restaurant is absolutely on my list because of the yummy Latino food, the friendly staff and of course the price point.  This is absolutely a MUST TRY for anyone living or visiting Provo.  But don't go on Wednesdays. They're Closed Every Wednesday. 
Price: $1-$10 Address: 332 Center Street Provo, UT 84604 _________________________________________________________
Have you been to any of these places?  Which are your favorites? Visiting Provo soon? Which places are you putting on your "must try" list? 
Hope you've enjoyed this Provo Food Favorites Post.  Be sure to share! 

DIY Toddler Halloween Party on a Budget.

This month I have teamed up with the lovely Shani from Sunshine and Munchkins to bring you a fun DIY Toddler and Budget Friendly Halloween Party.  Shani and I met at a blogger event in August and became quick blogging friends. With both of us having toddlers ages 4 and 2 it was an fun fit. One afternoon at a bump in at Hobby Lobby we started talking about having a playdate which quickly during into ideas for a fun toddler Halloween party.  Shani and I both know the excitement and pressure that comes with putting together fun holiday activities for our kids.  In the blogger world there is even more pressure to get sponsors and "free stuff" to throw the picture perfect party or playdate. Today, Shani and I are excited to bring you a Halloween Party idea that is completely toddler and budget friendly for any mama! All of the ideas could even be used for a week of daily activities.  
Follow along below for step by step instructions to give your littles a holiday activity to remember! 
Step 1. Team up with another Mama. Shani and I thought it would be fun to work together because of the similar ages of our kids and the fun ideas we both had for Halloween activities. Teaming up with another mama allows for you to split the work so you're not feeling overwhelmed or stressed trying to plan an afternoon of activities alone. The More The Merrier!  While everything we do in this party is completely doable with just you and your littles, it's always fun to invite friends and watch your kids interact and play with others! 

2. Plan and Prepare. Shani and I emailed and texted back and forth for a few days the ideas we had for the Halloween Party. Next we decided what activities we wanted to do, listed out each idea (craft, game, treasure hunt, goodie bags, food, decorations/photo booth) and then divided up responsibility for each idea.

The craft we chose was to decorate pumpkins. I went to the grocery store and chose 4 little pumpkins. Each pumpkin cost $.29/lb and each weighed about 3 pounds.  I spent $4 for all 4 pumpkins.  We had stickers, eyeballs, pom-poms, confetti, paint, glitter and glue, most of which we already owned, for the kids to decorate the pumpkins with.

The game Shani put together was a fun and easy pumpkin toss. She picked up 3 buckets from The Dollar Store for $3 and made homemade bean bags for another $3. 

We sent the kids on a fun treasure hunt to find their goodie bags. Shani found festive clues from Imagination Soup and printed them right from her home computer. 

Goodie Bags are usually every toddlers favorite part of an event and we were able to put together 4 fun filled bags for $6!  Inside the goodie bags was 1 small bag of candy corn, 2 pencils, 4 spider rings, pumpkin bubbles, glow in the dark vampire teeth, a notebook, and 4 Halloween coloring page. Each treat came in a 4 (or more) pack so I was able split them up between the each kids bags. Each treat was from the Target dollar section.  Shani printed out the 4 cute Halloween coloring pages (half sheet sizes) and we stapled them together.  Easiest Goodie Bags Ever! 

For food we chose a few cute Halloween inspired snacks we could feed the kids at lunchtime.  Ghost and Pumpkin shaped PB&J sandwiches, Ghoul String Cheeses, Pumpkin Mandarins and Mummy Juice Boxes. The mandarins and string cheese were simply made using a sharpie and the adorable juice boxes were made using scrap fabric and google eyes.  Shani also made the most delicious festive jello popcorn for the kids to munch on during crafts and games.  Each of us had most of the food and snacks in our pantries so cost for food was $7 for the whole event. 

The decorations, photo booth and table setting was easily thrown together with signs, cobwebs, spiders, plates, napkins etc I already had in my 'halloween box'. The cute photo props I found at Target for $3 and the Happy Halloween sign was $1.  (One TIP I do love to pass on for any holiday is STOCK UP for next year. Products go on sale for 50%, 75% and sometimes 90% in the few weeks after a holiday, so stock up on decor, plates, toys etc... during this time) We were super fortunate to have Creative Juice Cafe donate tassel's and popcorn buckets for our party also. 
3. Set Up. Set up came together very painlessly. I set up the decor, table and photo booth the night prior to the party and Shani came over early the morning of to help with finishing touches.  We prepped the food, set up the game, prepared the craft and hid the treasure hunt clues/goodie bags, all within 30-40 minutes before we began. 

4. Party.   Once all the prepping and planning was complete it was time to PARTY.  We scheduled a two hour time frame to allow plenty of time for everything we planned, but with toddlers, sometimes it's over in what feels like a matter of minutes.  All four kids had a blast getting to dress up, craft, play games, eat yummy treats and get fun goodie bags.  We found that the activities and crafts were all awesome and age/attention appropriate for both the 4 year olds and 2 year olds, however the 2 year olds did make a little bit more of a mess with the craft and 2 year olds struggled a bit with aim during the pumpkin toss.  Everyone had tons of fun. 

We hope this post will inspire you to do some fun Halloween activities with your kids!  Our main goal was to put together some budget friendly ideas that anyone could easily do.  You don't have to be super crafty, have "connections" or have lots of money to have some festive fun right at home with your kids.  We hope we've given you some fun ideas! 
Thanks again to Shani and her sweet kids for partying it up with us.  It was so fun to watch our kids play and craft and have fun!  I bet Shani and I will work together again in the future so stay tuned for some more toddler and budget friendly posts from Sunshine & Munchkins and FordOlogy!  
Happy Halloween Partying Mamas!