Eight Settlers Is coming to Downtown SLC
Eight Settlers Lounge Set to Open in Downtown Salt Lake City – Bringing Award-Winning Spirits and Elevated Experiences to the Heart of the City
Salt Lake City, Utah – January 29, 2026 – Eight Settlers Distillery, the beloved Cottonwood Heights destination known for its handcrafted spirits, craft cocktails, and elevated dining, is thrilled to announce the upcoming opening of its new extension: Eight Settlers Lounge, located at 44 Exchange Place in the vibrant heart of downtown Salt Lake City.
This exciting new venue builds on the success of the original Eight Settlers Distillery & Restaurant, founded by owners Katia and Radu Dugala in 2020. Inspired by the rich pioneer history of Cottonwood Heights and Radu’s lifelong passion for distilling (rooted in childhood experiences with his grandfather in Romania), the Dugalas have created a beloved spot for award-winning, small-batch spirits and community gathering. Now, they’re bringing that same dedication to quality and hospitality to downtown SLC.
Eight Settlers Lounge will offer an exquisite selection of craft cocktails featuring the distillery’s signature spirits—such as vodkas, gins, and whiskeys —alongside a menu of delicious shareable small plates specially crafted by Executive Chef Angelique Pereat. Guests can expect innovative, flavorful bites designed for sharing and savoring alongside perfectly mixed drinks.
The multi-level venue spans three floors of stylish seating space, providing an inviting atmosphere for everything from intimate evenings to lively gatherings. A standout feature is the exclusive Devil’s Gate Lounge, a posh lounge-within-a-lounge concept offering a cozy yet elevated experience. Live music performances are slated to begin soon, adding to the venue’s dynamic energy.
Katia and Radu Dugala expressed their excitement about expanding their vision: “We are thrilled to open our doors at Eight Settlers Lounge and share this beautiful new location with the Utah community. After building a loyal following in Cottonwood Heights, we’re eager to bring our passion for exceptional spirits, food, and hospitality to downtown Salt Lake City.”
Opening Schedule:
• Soft Opening: Monday, February 3, 2026 – Limited seating available to allow the team to fine-tune operations and welcome initial guests.
• Grand Opening: Monday, February 9, 2026 – Full operations begin, with reservations recommended.
Eight Settlers Lounge will operate daily from 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM, with the kitchen closing at 10:00 PM with small bar bites served from 9:30 PM to 11:45 PM and last call at 11:45 PM. The location is conveniently situated in the central business district on Exchange Place, between Main Street and State Street, near the Salt Palace Convention Center, TRAX stations, and Washington Square—making it an ideal spot for locals and visitors alike.
For more information, updates, reservations, or to follow the latest news, visit the official website at www.eightsettlersdistillery.com or follow @eightsettlers and @settlerslounge on social media.
About Eight Settlers Distillery
Founded by Katia and Radu Dugala, Eight Settlers Distillery & Restaurant in Cottonwood Heights combines small-batch, high-quality spirits with modern American cuisine in a rustic yet refined setting. The brand is committed to using local ingredients, old-school distilling techniques with a modern twist, and creating memorable experiences for the Utah community.
Media Contact:
Katia Dugala
Owner, Eight Settlers Distillery & Lounge
Email: info@eightsettlers.com
Phone: (801) 410-8297
