Salt Lake City’s vibrant dining scene recently mourned the passing of Tom Guinney, a co-founder of the beloved Market Street Grill and Oyster Bar restaurants, including the popular Market Street Grill South Jordan location. Guinney, who passed away at 71 from natural causes, was not just a restaurateur; he was a culinary visionary who helped shape Utah’s gastronomic landscape and whose legacy continues to resonate at Market Street Grill South Jordan.
Guinney’s journey in the restaurant industry began in his youth, working in his father’s coffee shop and later serving as a cook in the Navy. This early experience ignited a passion for food and hospitality that would define his career. In 1980, he joined forces with Tom Sieg and John Williams, the founders of The New Yorker, to establish Gastronomy Inc. This partnership led to the creation of the first Market Street Grill and Oyster Bar in downtown Salt Lake City, followed by expansions including the Market Street Broiler, locations at the Salt Lake City International Airport, Cottonwood Heights, and, importantly, Market Street Grill South Jordan.
Market Street Grill South Jordan quickly became a favorite among locals, known for its commitment to fresh seafood and exceptional dining experience. Guinney’s dedication to quality was evident in every aspect of the restaurant, from the carefully sourced ingredients to the expertly prepared dishes. His signature clam chowder, a creamy and flavorful concoction, became a hallmark of Market Street Grill and remains a must-try item at the South Jordan location. The recipe, from Guinney’s “scroungy notebook,” features a butter and flour roux, onions, celery, fresh leeks, sherry, and extra-heavy whipping cream, resulting in what Guinney himself described as “one of the finest clam chowders in the United States.”
Before his passing, Guinney ensured the continuation of his culinary vision by selling the Market Street Grill and Oyster Bar assets to a local restaurateur. This transition promises “business as usual” for both patrons and employees of Market Street Grill South Jordan and other locations, maintaining the high standards and welcoming atmosphere that Guinney established. While the details of the sale remain confidential, the focus remains on preserving the legacy of fresh, quality seafood that Market Street Grill, especially in South Jordan, is known for.
Market Street Grill South Jordan is more than just a restaurant; it’s a testament to Tom Guinney’s vision and dedication. His influence extends beyond the kitchen, impacting the entire Salt Lake City hospitality scene. Many successful chefs, owners, and managers in Utah honed their skills under Guinney’s mentorship. His contributions to the Downtown Alliance, Salt Lake Chamber, and Visit Salt Lake further demonstrate his commitment to the community. Leaders from the chamber and alliance recognized Guinney’s profound impact, stating that he and his partners “raised the bar for dining ambiance, cuisine and particularly for dining service,” training “generations of hospitality workers and leaders.”
As Market Street Grill South Jordan moves forward, it carries with it the rich heritage and culinary excellence instilled by Tom Guinney. It remains a place where diners can experience the freshest seafood, savor exceptional dishes, and appreciate the legacy of a man who significantly contributed to Utah’s dining culture. For those seeking a memorable meal in South Jordan, Market Street Grill stands as a beacon of quality and tradition, a lasting tribute to Tom Guinney’s passion and vision.
