Best Coffee Shops in Salt Lake City
If you ask the locals what makes Salt Lake City such a great place to live, the coffee scene has to be near the top of the list. Sure, we’ve got epic hikes, snow-dusted peaks, and views that’ll knock your socks off—but we also know how to make one heck of a cup of coffee. So, if you’re chasing down a killer espresso, looking for your next work-from-café spot, or just want to chill somewhere with good vibes and better pastries, we’ve got you covered.
As someone who’s borderline obsessed with finding the best coffee shops (purely for educational purposes, of course), we’ve put together this list of seven must-visit cafés in Salt Lake City. These are the places I take my out-of-town friends when they ask, “Where should we go for coffee?” And honestly, they never disappoint.
Let’s go on a little coffee crawl, shall we?
Three Pines Coffee
Image from Three Pines Coffee Official FB: Link Here
If downtown Salt Lake had a heartbeat, it might just be Three Pines Coffee. It’s small, sleek, and always buzzing with people who really, really love good coffee. No fluff here—just top-tier espresso and minimalist vibes that make you feel like you’re in a tiny slice of Portland.
They serve Heart Coffee (from Portland), and the quality is next-level. If you’re in the mood for a velvety cortado or something iced and refreshing, they’ve got it. Their seasonal drinks are always fun (but not overly sugary), and everything feels intentionally crafted. The baristas? Super friendly. The kind of folks who make your day better with a smile and a solid pour.
Why Visit: The perfect spot for espresso lovers and minimalists alike. It’s small, but mighty.
Three Pines Coffee
165 S Main St,
Salt Lake City, UT, 84111
(805) 395 8907
threepinescoffee.com
Loki Coffee
Image from Loki Coffee Official FB: Link Here
Loki Coffee is one of those neighborhood gems that feels like it was created just for locals who appreciate good brews and good company. Nestled in Salt Lake City, Loki radiates a welcoming, down-to-earth energy — you’ll often find regulars perched at the counter, chatting with the baristas like old friends while sipping on expertly pulled espressos or slowly savoring a pour-over. The interior is bright and modern with plenty of cozy seating, making it a perfect spot to work, read, or catch up with someone you haven’t seen in a while.
What really sets Loki apart is its emphasis on craft — they carefully source their beans and take pride in extracting every bit of flavor. You can expect top-notch basics like a silky flat white or cold brew, along with fun seasonal drinks like their spiced chai latte or maple oat latte that hits all the right notes. Hungry? Their menu features light, locally sourced bites like pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and vegan treats that pair perfectly with your coffee. Whether you want a quick pick-me-up or a more lingering experience, the Loki team will make you feel at home.
Why visit: A bright, community-driven coffee shop serving top-notch drinks that make every visit feel special.
Loki Coffee
325 East 900 South,
Salt Lake City, UT, 84111
(385) 308 3085
https://www.lokicoffeeco.com/
The Rose Establishment
Image from The Rose Establishment Official FB: Link Here
The Rose is where you go when you want your coffee with a side of ambiance. Housed in a beautiful old brick building, it’s basically the brunch café of dreams. Think leafy plants, lots of natural light, vintage furniture, and that kind of casual-cool vibe you don’t even have to try for.
The food is just as lovely as the space. They’ve got a whole menu of healthy-ish breakfast and lunch items (I’m looking at you, avocado toast with za’atar), and their coffee is brewed to perfection. The pour-overs are slow and thoughtful, and their baked goods are almost too pretty to eat… almost.
Why Visit: Perfect for brunch, catching up with friends, or just sipping something beautiful in a beautiful space.
The Rose Establishment
235 S 400 W,
Salt Lake City, UT, 84101
(801) 208 5569
theroseestb.com
Publik Coffee Roasters
Image from Publik Coffee Roasters Official IG: Link Here
Publik isn’t just a coffee shop—it’s a mission. Their slogan is “Coffee, community, and cause,” and they totally live it. The space is airy and industrial, filled with long tables that invite conversation (or solo laptop marathons). It’s one of my go-to spots for both work sessions and catch-ups.
They roast their own beans, and it shows. Everything is fresh and thoughtfully prepared, from the single-origin pour-overs to the bold cold brew. Plus, they’re big on sustainability—so every cup comes with a side of good karma. Hungry? Their toast game is strong. Try the avocado or goat cheese if you’re feeling fancy.
Why Visit: A creative, inspiring space that delivers good coffee and even better intentions.
Publik Coffee Roasters
975 S West Temple,
Salt Lake City, UT, 84101
(801) 355 3161
publikcoffee.com
Blue Copper Coffee Room
Image from Blue Copper Coffee Room Official FB: Link Here
Blue Copper is where the cool kids drink their coffee—but without the snobbery. It’s got a chill, modern vibe with bold colors, cozy seating, and some of the most flavorful coffee in town. This place takes its beans seriously, and the flavor profiles prove it.
Their baristas are super knowledgeable and happy to nerd out with you over roast levels and brew methods. Not sure what to get? Ask for recommendations or try one of their creative seasonal drinks. Everything feels like a mini flavor adventure.
Why Visit: Great vibes, super flavorful brews, and the kind of staff that makes you feel welcome even if you don’t speak fluent coffee.
Blue Copper Coffee Room
179 W 900 S,
Salt Lake City, UT, 84101
(385) 222 7046
bluecopperslc.com
The People’s Coffee
Image from The People’s Coffee Official FB: Link Here
True to its name, The People’s Coffee is all about making everyone feel at home. It’s bright, it’s colorful, and there’s always something happening—local art on the walls, impromptu music sets, or just great conversations floating in the air.
The coffee is fantastic (try the honey lavender latte!), and the space is super versatile. Whether you’re solo and need to crank out some work or meeting a friend for a casual chat, you’ll feel right at home here. Bonus points for the comfy couches and welcoming staff.
Why Visit: A neighborhood favorite that serves up creativity, comfort, and community in every cup.
The People’s Coffee
177 E 200 S,
Salt Lake City, UT, 84111
(801) 410 4734
peoplescoffeeco.com
Picnic Cafe
Image from Picnic Cafe Official FB: Link Here
Tucked away just south of Liberty Park, Picnic Cafe is the kind of charming, no-fuss spot where you instantly feel like a regular. With its airy, plant-filled space and eclectic decor, it’s part cozy kitchen, part curated gallery, and 100% a great place to unwind.
They serve up an impressive variety of beverages, from locally roasted coffee and herbal teas to house-made lemonades and seasonal specials. Their breakfast and lunch menus are full of fresh, wholesome fare—and if you’re into pastries, you’ll love their rotating selection of baked goods. Bonus: They also offer gluten-free and vegan options that taste just as good as the regular stuff.
Why Visit: A laid-back hangout with great drinks, good food, and a creative local vibe.
Picnic Cafe
1329 S 500 E,
Salt Lake City, UT, 84105
(801) 467 2947
picnicslc.com
Your Next Cup Is Waiting
There’s something truly special about Salt Lake City’s coffee scene. It’s not just about grabbing a caffeine fix—it’s about finding places that feel like an extension of your own living room. These cafés reflect the soul of our city: warm, welcoming, a little quirky, and always full of flavor.
So whether you’re visiting from out of town or rediscovering the gems in your own backyard, I hope this guide inspires you to get out there and explore. Try something new, chat with a barista, linger a little longer than you planned. Each of these shops has its own story, and they’re all brewing more than just coffee—they’re brewing community, creativity, and connection.
The next time you’re wandering the streets of SLC, let the scent of fresh espresso pull you in. Your next favorite spot might be just around the corner. And who knows? Maybe I’ll be the one in the window seat, sipping something frothy and writing about the next round of must-visit cafés. See you there.