Scott and Amber’s Adventures in Life

  When you’re building a dream from the ground up—especially one that involves cocktails, community, and killer design—sometimes the best inspiration comes from the road. Over the last few months, Scott and I have been making the scenic drive between Salt Lake City and Las Vegas, stopping at every kind of bar we can find along the way. From classy rooftop lounges to cozy dive bars tucked in forgotten corners, we’ve been soaking up everything. Why? Because we want Coal Creek Taproom & Eatery to feel just right. This wasn’t just an excuse to sip a few (okay, maybe more than a few) great cocktails. We were studying every detail—how the lighting changed the mood of a room, how certain furnishings made people want to linger longer, and how the best bars crafted drinks that told a story. We took notes, snapped photos, scribbled flavor combos, and asked bartenders way too many questions (bless them). We explored sleek industrial lounges with all kinds of accents and leather booths,...

Every great taproom has a story—and ours begins with a worn-down building, a vision, and a whole lot of heart. When we first laid eyes on this old structure on the edge of downtown Cedar City, most people saw faded paint, cracked concrete, and doors that hadn’t swung open with purpose in awhile. But we saw something more. We saw potential. We saw a place where the community could gather, laugh, connect, and make memories. And just like that, Coal Creek Taproom & Eatery was born. 🔨 The Vision: Raw, Industrial, and Full of Soul We wanted to preserve the grit and character of the original building—honoring its past—while layering in warmth, elegance, and a touch of that speakeasy charm. Our design leaned into charcoal black walls, rich wood textures, and copper accents to give it an industrial yet inviting feel.  And yes, the makeover is still unfolding. 🖌️ What We’ve Done So Far Painted the exterior walls a bold charcoal black for instant drama and curb appeal Framed ou...

Living in Southern Utah is like having a front-row seat to one of the most breathtaking regions in the country. The area is overflowing with hidden treasures — from ancient petroglyphs and Native American ruins to stunning red rock formations and unforgettable local festivals. It’s a place where history meets beauty, and adventure waits around every corner. Scott and I are always swapping discoveries — whether it’s a hike we’ve stumbled upon online, a scenic drive recommended by a friend, or a secret swimming hole only locals seem to know about. Our bucket list? Packed with day trips through Utah, Arizona, and Nevada. (Okay, yes — there are a few tropical beaches on there too, but the red dirt has our hearts.) This place is magic. It’s grounding, awe-inspiring, and alive. Just steps from the Taproom, Coal Creek runs quietly through town. On one side, Industrial Road. On the other, the peaceful Native Tree Memorial Park. We often take breaks to walk across the bridge just up the street ...

From Troy NY to Cedar City UT:  My journey through food, family, and big dreams growing up in Troy, New York, I was surrounded by blueprints, work boots, and the steady rhythm of the construction world. Entrepreneurship was in my blood- it ran deep through my family’s legacy in the building trades. I learned early on what it meant to build something from the ground up, not just with tools and materials, but with grit, vision, and long hours. But life had more in store for me than concrete and cranes. It came in the form of a friendship- one that would change the course of my life.  I met Executive Chef Brad Stevens, and through our shared love of food and hospitality, I caught the bug!! I was hooked on the energy of a kitchen, the creativity of crafting a menu, and the satisfaction of offering guests more than just a meal, offering them an experience. From humble beginnings, working in bistro’s, partnering in a banquet hall, to a full service restaurant and lively bar, New Yor...

 Hi everyone!! I’m Amber Kate, my family jokes that I should’ve been named Amber Cake because of my raging sweet tooth and passion for baking treats!!  I am the youngest of 4. My parents are business minded people and raised me to be the same. I grew up helping at gun shows and started working at the family grocery store as soon as I could reach the keys on the cash register standing on my tiptoes. I grew up in a super tiny town and loved claiming it as my own little wonderland ready to explore. Riding bikes, roller blading, night games, walks in the creek, daily lunch with my folks at the local cafe, camping, and of course playing store in the attic or basement of the old historical building were what filled my days.  After graduating high school I moved to Cedar City and started my family right away!! As a young mom, I became passionate about what’s best for children and spend hours and hours attending classes, workshops, conferences, and trainings to become well versed...