The Knudsen’s
The wooded neighborhood where Tuscany now stands has been cherished by generations of families, lovers of mountain scenery, and those seeking a hearty meal. In 1878, Rasmus Knudsen, the original pioneer of the area, admired the area for the lovely wooded landscape—just as Tuscany’s patio visitors do now. Back in 1878, however, the beautiful forest served a different purpose than the aesthetic one it does today: Rasmus Knudsen made smart use of the trees by harvesting them for some saw mills he’d constructed nearby. Rasmus was well known for his expertise in building many types of mills, though, and nearest where Tuscany stands today, Rasmus had a flour mill that operated for about 30 years.
Rasmus’ son, Rudolph, also had a fondness for the trees, and the gorgeous view of the Wasatch mountain range. He established a popular campsite about a half mile from his father’s flour mill. This campsite came to be known as Knudsen’s Grove, and by 1922, the campsite had nine sleeping cabins, and “Knudsen’s Inn”—a country lunch stand that was a local legend for its “toasted buttered-bun” hamburgers.
In 1878, Rasmus Knudsen, the original pioneer of the area, admired the area for the lovely wooded landscape—just as Tuscany’s patio visitors do now.
Becoming Tuscany
Knudsen’s Inn changed management and names over the next seventy years, becoming first “Dyer’s Inn,” then “The Heather,” then “The Bridlewood Restaurant.” In 1994, Mark Eaton, along with Aaron Ferer and Associates, enlarged and redesigned the historic building, transforming it into “Tuscany.” This elegant, award-winning Italian Fine Dining restaurant culminates and celebrates the legacy of Knudsen’s Grove with our passion for both excellent food and the charming forest scenery.
Continually rated as one of America’s top restaurants by Zagat, Tuscany is rich in natural beauty, artistic and culinary treasures, just as its namesake region in Italy. Built in the style of a northern Italian Alps chalet, Tuscany offers an unparalleled escape into culinary bliss. Become a part of Tuscany’s ongoing story by making your reservations today!
In the spring of 2006, Tuscany owners renovated a small brick house on the property, formerly Edythe Smith’s home , transforming it into “Franck’s House,” an intimate, single dining room restaurant. French at heart, with a contemporary and original twist, the cuisine is guaranteed to please the most discriminating palate. With both Tuscany and Franck’s House providing unique and separate dining experiences in Knudsen’s Grove, this location is a hidden gem for lovers of fine dining.