There’s a lot of buzz about Hogle Zoo these days, especially after seeing these Tribune photos of Rizzo, the new polar bear and the lead attraction of the Rocky Shores exhibit, which opens on June 1.
Almost as exciting — at least for hungry zoo-goers — is the opening of the new Beastro.
The newly constructed eatery opened on Tuesday and is located east of the elephant exhibit and north of the monkeys.
It offers indoor seating for more than 100 people — the first time in the zoo’s history that indoor seating has been available to patrons, officials said. It will be a welcome addition in both the heat of the summer and the cold winters.
I visited the restaurant yesterday for lunch and it boasts large windows with nice views of the exhibits and an impressive menu for a family attraction.
The Executive Chef is Cory Crozier, a native of Tremonton. He and his staff are making just about everything from scratch including hand-tossed pizzas, panini sandwiches, fresh — not frozen — hamburgers and macaroni and cheese (pictured here).
There's also a chef special every day. Today it is barbecued ribs that Crozier was smoking on Wednesday. Earlier in the week he had pulled pork and baja shrimp tacos.
There are grab and go items, hot and cold drinks and cookies made in house.
Prices ranges from $3 to 6.50 for most entrees. Whole pizzas are also available for around $20.
