The Navajo Hogan restaurant, situated at 447 E. 3300 S. in South Salt Lake, has been a cornerstone of Native American culinary culture since its inception in 1989, renowned for its frybread and "Navajo Tacos." Owner Marcie Espinoza expressed her fondness for the community connection her restaurant provides, stating, “It gives you a reason to get up in the morning, do something for others.”
The establishment serves dishes rooted in Diné culture, including simmered pinto beans, chili verde, and mutton stew on certain days, with frybread being a standout menu item. Customers can enjoy it both as a savory taco topped with beans, chili, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and sour cream, or as a sweet treat smothered in butter and honey. One patron, Noah Slack, noted the authenticity of the food, reflecting on how it brings a piece of culture to the plate.
Navajo Hogan’s frybread has garnered national recognition, including praise in Saveur Magazine, which identified it as among the best in the country. The restaurant’s legacy traces back to when Marcie and her husband, Bill, originally sought to serve simple fare to nearby Granite High School students, only to switch gears to focus on traditional Navajo food. Bill, who identified more as Native American, inspired the restaurant’s shift after creating frybread from childhood memories.
Over the years, the restaurant has attracted a range of visitors, including celebrities like Jay Leno and Steve Martin, who have left their signatures on the walls. Marcie credits local word-of-mouth for the continued popularity of the eatery, with first-time visitors often astonished by the unique regional offering.
Although Bill passed away in 2019, Marcie has maintained the same community ethos that he embodied, emphasizing a collaborative work environment. Operating hours for Navajo Hogan are from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays through Fridays, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays.