College basketball fans are deep into thoughts of March Madness right now, dreaming about buzzer beaters and winning brackets.
Here in The Salt Lake Tribune food department, we also got caught up in the frenzy. But instead of round ball, we chose an even more competitive arena — indulging and critiquing hot, crispy French fries.
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Hot or soggy?
What do you think about our French fry picks? Let us know if we’ve selected a winning bracket or need to head back to the gym for another round of fry-eating practice. Email comments — with the subject line “Starch Madness” — to food@sltrib.com.
For more fry recommendations, check our list of reader suggestions at bit.ly/x72Iak.
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Our expert food analysts — Tribune restaurant reviewers and willing staff eaters — served as the selection committee. After much dipping and munching, we officially announce our Salty 16 division winners.
BEST EUROPEAN VERSION
Bruge’s Waffles and Frites • Crispy Belgium-style "frites" that have been deep-fried twice and served with a choice of 10 different mayonnaise-based dipping sauces. The tomato-based Andalouse puts Utah fry sauce to shame. 336 W. 300 South, Salt Lake City; 801-363-4444.
BEST FROM A BURGER JOINT
Salt City Burger • Made from fresh, thinly-cut fries with the skins on and fried a dark golden brown. Crispy outside, tender inside, and always seasoned just right. 9176 S. Village Shop Dr., Sandy; and 401 W. 500 South, Bountiful.
BEST INSIDE A BAR
Syn’s Grill inside Barbary Coast Saloon • Owner Syndie Finnas makes sinfully delicious hand-cut fries served hot with a sprinkling of salt. Don’t miss the house-made fry sauce with ketchup, mayonnaise and hickory-barbecue sauce. 4242 South State Street Murray, 801-265-9889.
BEST MIDDLE EASTERN
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Mazza Middle Eastern Cuisine • In addition to the delicious falafel, shawarma and kebabs, Mazza’s hand-cut and twice-fried fries are an exotic delight, especially with the a dab of secret garlic dipping sauce. 912 E. 900 South, 801-521-4572; and 1515 S. 1500 East, 801-484-9259.
BEST BATTERED
Moochie’s Meatballs and More • With a coating so light you almost don’t know its there, these spuds are the perfect accompaniment to the signature Philly cheesesteak. Eat with the house-made "Freaking Fabulous Fry Sauce." 232 East 800 South, Salt Lake City; 801-596-1350.
BEST A-PEEL
Guzzi’s Vintage Burgers & Fries • If you linger at the counter, you can watch as the cooks turn skin-on potatoes into crunchy, seasoned French fries. Dip into Guzzi’s own fry sauce or sprinkle with malt vinegar. Or do as the staff suggests and mix Liquid Smoke with ketchup — you’ll never turn back. 180 E. 800 South, Salt Lake City; 801-364-4541.
BEST DRIVE IN
Hires Big H • Munching on these fresh-cut fries is as much on the Hires canon as ordering a signature root beer in a frosted glass. Fried just right and tasty to the last greasy bite. 425 S. 700 East, Salt Lake City; 801-364-4582.
BEST MARRIAGE WITH A SWEET POTATO
The Bayou • French-fry lovers can get a two-for-one at this bar, best known for its massive beer selection. An order includes a colorful mix of regular and sweet potato fries, which are a perfect marriage with the house-made chipotle aioli. 645 S. State Street; 801-961-8400.
BEST HYBRID
Zy Restaurant • When a French fry has a party with a potato chip, you get the wide, super-thin herb fries served at this downtown eatery. Seasoned with sea salt and fresh herbs, they’re perfect for anyone who can’t resist a hot potato. 268 South State St. Salt Lake City; 801-779-4730.
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