Review: After the appetizers and before the desserts, a not-so-fine dining experience at Salt Lake City’s new Sonoma Grill

In reality, the menu at the downtown Salt Lake City restaurant feels unfocused, the kitchen execution is inconsistent and the service team struggles at times.

The menu, described as a “wood-fired and farm-inspired dining experience” with a focus on California cuisine, includes a variety of items that includes pork belly tacos, an Asian chicken salad, a country chicken-fried sandwich and burrata ravioli. It’s an identity crisis that crops up when a restaurant decides to use the catchall term “New American” cuisine.

(Trent Nelson | The Salt Lake Tribune) Spicy Asian Ribs at Sonoma Grill & Wine Bar, a new restaurant inside the Peery Hotel in Salt Lake City on Monday March 18, 2019.

(Trent Nelson | The Salt Lake Tribune) Sonoma Grill & Wine Bar, a new restaurant inside the Peery Hotel in Salt Lake City on Monday March 18, 2019.

(Trent Nelson | The Salt Lake Tribune) Sonoma Burger at Sonoma Grill & Wine Bar, a new restaurant inside the Peery Hotel in Salt Lake City on Monday March 18, 2019.

The small plates, sandwiches (called hand-helds) and entrees were a disappointment, primarily due to poor execution, while the appetizers, pizza and desserts were more successful.