When it comes to coffee in Salt Lake City, Three Pines Coffee stands out as a small but mighty café with a big heart and an even bigger reputation. Located in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, this minimalist and cozy coffee shop has captured the attention of both locals and tourists with its top-tier brews, welcoming vibe, and focus on quality.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Three Pines Coffee Salt Lake City—its origins, what makes it unique, what to expect on your visit, and why it has become a favorite destination for coffee lovers from all walks of life.
A Quick Introduction to Three Pines Coffee Salt Lake City
Three Pines Coffee is a specialty coffee shop tucked away on Main Street in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah. With a sleek, modern design and a menu that focuses on doing a few things extremely well, this small café has gained a loyal following over the years.
Whether you’re a die-hard coffee enthusiast or someone just looking for a good cup in a friendly space, Three Pines Coffee Salt Lake City offers a high-quality experience that keeps customers coming back.
The Founders’ Story: Passion Meets Precision
Three Pines Coffee was founded by Nick Price and Meg Frampton, a couple with a deep love for coffee and community. After traveling and learning about coffee from some of the best in the industry, they brought their vision to life in 2015 by opening Three Pines Coffee in Salt Lake City.
Their goal was simple yet ambitious: serve the best possible coffee using the highest-quality beans, all while creating a warm, welcoming space for the community. Since then, they’ve stuck to their mission, sourcing beans from top roasters like Heart Roasters in Portland, Oregon, and dialing in every detail for the perfect cup.
What Makes Three Pines Coffee Salt Lake City So Special?
- Quality Over Quantity
One of the most impressive things about Three Pines Coffee Salt Lake City is its commitment to doing a few things exceptionally well. The menu is small, but every item on it is carefully crafted. Whether it’s a simple espresso or a seasonal iced drink, you can be sure it’s made with intention and care.
They don’t try to be everything to everyone. You won’t find an overwhelming list of flavored syrups or food options here. Instead, the focus is on delivering an excellent coffee experience every single time.
- Minimalist Aesthetic, Maximum Comfort
The shop’s design reflects its philosophy—clean, simple, and focused. With white walls, natural wood accents, and an open bar layout, Three Pines Coffee Salt Lake City creates an inviting yet minimal space that encourages relaxation and conversation.
It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a quiet morning with your laptop or catch up with a friend over a perfectly brewed cortado.
- Expertly Sourced Beans
Three Pines partners with high-end coffee roasters, primarily Heart Coffee Roasters, known for their ethical sourcing and high-quality beans. This ensures that every cup served is not only delicious but also sustainable and responsible.
The rotating selection of beans means you can always try something new, whether it’s a bright, fruity Ethiopian or a rich, chocolatey Colombian roast.
- Skilled Baristas
Baristas at Three Pines are more than just employees—they’re coffee professionals who take pride in their craft. Friendly, knowledgeable, and always ready to talk coffee, the team at Three Pines Coffee Salt Lake City adds a personal touch that elevates your experience.
Whether you’re curious about the origin of your beans or unsure what to order, the staff is always ready to guide you.
Customer Favorites: What to Order at Three Pines
If you’re visiting for the first time, here are some highly recommended drinks to try:
- Espresso – Simple and bold, it showcases the shop’s precision
- Cortado – A balanced option for those who love espresso with just a touch of milk
- Cold Brew – Strong, smooth, and perfect for hot summer days
- Seasonal Drinks – Their house-made syrup options like lavender or cardamom change with the seasons
- Matcha Latte – A favorite among non-coffee drinkers, prepared with high-grade matcha
They also offer a limited selection of pastries and snacks from local bakeries, which pair perfectly with their drinks.
The Community Connection
What really sets Three Pines Coffee Salt Lake City apart is its strong sense of community. It’s a place where people from all walks of life come together over a shared love for great coffee.
From morning commuters and freelancers to students and tourists, the vibe at Three Pines is inclusive and down-to-earth. It’s not uncommon to find yourself chatting with a stranger or getting a friendly smile from the barista who remembers your usual order.
Location and Accessibility
Three Pines Coffee is located at:
165 S Main Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
It’s within walking distance of many downtown hotels, offices, and public transportation options, making it a convenient stop whether you’re working in the area or just exploring the city.
Parking in downtown Salt Lake City can be a bit tricky during peak hours, but there are metered spots and nearby garages. The café is also close to TRAX light rail stops, making it easily accessible for those using public transit.
What Visitors Are Saying
Reviews across platforms like Yelp, Google, and TripAdvisor consistently praise Three Pines Coffee Salt Lake City for its:
- Clean, minimalist atmosphere
- Friendly and knowledgeable staff
- High-quality espresso and lattes
- Consistent and precise coffee preparation
- Community-focused approach
Here’s what a few customers had to say:
“The best espresso I’ve had in Salt Lake City. You can tell they really care about the craft.”
— Local guide on Google Reviews
“Tiny spot, but the energy is warm and the coffee is incredible. A must-visit”
— Yelp Reviewer
“Came here every morning of our trip. Can’t wait to come back”
— TripAdvisor User
Tips for Visiting
- Go early: The shop is small, and seating is limited. If you want to grab a seat and relax, try visiting early in the morning or during off-peak hours
- Be patient: Quality takes time. The baristas here take great care with each order
- Ask questions: If you’re unsure what to get, don’t hesitate to ask. They love sharing their coffee knowledge
- Try something new: Seasonal drinks are always interesting and worth a try
Why You Should Add Three Pines Coffee to Your Salt Lake City Itinerary
Whether you’re a Salt Lake City local or just passing through, Three Pines Coffee Salt Lake City is more than just a place to grab your caffeine fix. It’s a space that values community, craft, and consistency.
In a world where coffee shops can often feel impersonal or gimmicky, Three Pines stands as a reminder of what makes small, focused businesses so special. It’s not about how many options are on the menu, but how good each cup tastes. And at Three Pines, every cup is exceptional.
Final Thoughts
Three Pines Coffee Salt Lake City has carved out its place as a beloved institution in Utah’s capital city. With its focus on quality, simplicity, and community, it’s the kind of coffee shop that leaves a lasting impression—and keeps people coming back, one cup at a time.
Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just someone looking for a peaceful place to start your day, Three Pines offers a perfect blend of charm and craftsmanship. Don’t miss out on this hidden gem in Salt Lake City.
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