I work in a place that has one of the coolest environments for employees I’ve ever known- we can play ping pong, ride scooters, and our team of 20 regularly breaks out into all-out Nerf wars.  It’s awesome. At times though, it can be difficult to get to that place of deep concentration.  That’s when Salt Lake’s growing fleet of cafés comes in handy.

One of the best places to secure a quiet, comfortable workspace is also in one of the most convenient locations downtown.  Situated just of the freeway exit, Raw Bean is ideal if you’re seeking silence.  The café has two levels: the downstairs has a common room with plenty of natural light, and if you prefer a more laid-back environment head upstairs and enjoy some of the shop’s Italian literature the soft sofas and Pier One-styled décor.
If you prefer a bit more social interaction, there’s another great coffee shop just downtown called Nostalgia where you can grab a sandwich and play a game of chess with the local students and young professionals.  The baristas will learn your name quickly, make you feel at home, and remember you the next time you visit.  If you want to drink coffee with friends- Nostalgia is perfect.

For those that prefer a mix of social and seclusion, Coffee Connection could be exactly what you’re looking for.  Boasting some of the best bubble tea in the valley, Coffee Connection is conveniently located on State Street directly across from one of the community college campuses. The ambience is somewhat of an “industrial sheik” which allows visitors to enjoy café con leche while viewing some local artists’ work.  With plenty of accommodations that suit both the last-minute-finals-cram-session-type, and the casual passer-by, Coffee Connection is a great option for all levels of café connoisseurs.