While at least three Republicans hungrily eye the U.S. Senate seat held by three-term GOP incumbent Bob Bennett, Utah Democrats have one option on the menu: Sam Granato.

On Monday, in front of one of his three Salt Lake Valley restaurants, the 59-year-old deli-owner announced that he's up to the challenge.

"I realize that I am not your typical politician," Granato told a small but avid crowd of supporters. "And frankly, that will be a good thing."

Touting his 40 years as a small business owner, along with his service on several health care and finance boards -- he also is chairman of the state's liquor commission -- Granato said he is well-prepared to represent Utahns in Washington, D.C.

"As a party to the restructuring of Utah's liquor laws, I have proved that I am capable of listening to different opinions and forming a consensus," Granato said.

Granato's message was short on policy, but he promised detailed positions on the major issues in the months to come.

His down-to-earth approach already has scored points with former Utah Jazz Coach Frank Layden, a long-time Democrat.

"This is what this country should be all about, that we have citizen-business people working to play a greater role in its decision-making," Layden said.

"His one weakness," Layden added, "is that he makes too much sense."

Radio host Tom Barberi, also among the onlookers, called Granato's candidacy refreshing.

"His father, Frank Granato Sr., started this whole business by pushing a handcart and reaching out to everybody. Sam built it into what it is today," Barberi said. "He doesn't have an agenda other than to do good and to make sure the people of Utah are represented."

During his remarks, Granato described his dislike for the trash-talking that has permeated the nation's politics.

"Why has our public debate on the critical issues facing our nation degenerated into buzz words designed to inflame, incite and frighten us when we need our courage the most," he asked.

Granato pledged to listen to constituents as he campaigns over the next several months.

"This nation was built on a tradition of freedom of ideas and thoughtful compromise," Granato said.

If he secures the Democratic nomination, Granato will go on to face the victor in a crowded Republican field. Three-term incumbent Bennett is challenged by Attorney General Mark Shurleff, business owner Tim Bridgewater and, likely, conservative activist Cherilyn Eagar.

Anthony Sudweeks, 26, described the down-to-earth Granato as a man of the people who has more to offer than sound bites.

"He has a positive vision," Sudweeks said. "He's on his way."

cmckitrick@sltrib.com