Nothing against chain restaurants (well, maybe a little), but when it comes to bringing stylish food to our suburbs, they fall short. Way too short. Enter Scelto, a new Italian restaurant in the heart of Utah. “We made the space inviting and gave it a cool downtown vibe that you don’t find in the southeast part of the valley,” says co-founder Waleska Iglesias, who enlisted designers Gary Vlasik and Jamie Clyde to create the sleek and chic decor she envisioned for the Italian-inspired eatery.

Modern? Yes, but definitely not cold. Think warm and inviting – but with a certain edge. “We decided to do something very unexpected, something elevated but not unapproachable,” explains Vlasik. The designers set the stage with dramatic black painted walls and dark cobalt steel wall paneling: “They bring in mood and allow other elements to stand out,” says Vlasik.

The ensemble of decorative performers includes everything from theatrical stones – terrazzo on the bar and black marble on the reception tables – to sculptural banquettes, chairs and booths in velvet and a color mix of ink and French blue, terracotta and marigold. “The terrazzo inspired our color palette,” says Clyde.

Screen-like wooden slatted walls in ash and burnt terracotta tones divide the interior into cozy bar and dining areas, allowing the atmosphere to flow from room to room. Clouds of walnut slats line the ceiling, and modern light fixtures act like works of art as they illuminate the interior, which is enlivened by framed, ethereal artwork that visually contrasts with the dark walls. “Of course, we love an eclectic mix,” says Vlasik, laughing. Even a visit to the restrooms (complete with a chic communal wash station) offers surprising style. “Their dark colors, moody wallpaper, and sparkling chandeliers make for an indulgent experience,” says Clyde.

Scelto – the Italian word for “chosen” – describes not only the restaurant’s innovative menu, but also the thoughtful design elements that make this Utah Italian restaurant a special experience at all times. Iglesias explains, “Scelto is a great place to celebrate any occasion.”

When you go…

Scelto, 849 E. 9400 South, Sandysceltoslc.com

For more stories like this one and all our food and drink coverage, click here. And while you’re here, why not subscribe to the six annual issues of salt lakeThe magazine’s curated guide to the best of Utah.