Best ADHD-Friendly Coffee Shops in Salt Lake City
If you're someone with ADHD (like me!), finding the right space to focus can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The right coffee shop can provide the perfect environment for productivity, while the wrong one can leave you distracted and unproductive. I’ve scouted out some of the best ADHD-friendly coffee shops in Salt Lake City, considering the key factors that make or break a space: busyness, seating, noise level, atmosphere, and clear layout. Here's a rundown of five top spots for you to check out!
1. Loki Coffee
Busyness: Loki Coffee tends to be consistently busy, with plenty of regulars around, making it great for body doubling if you thrive working alongside others. However, if you're easily distracted by people, this might not be the best spot for you, as the steady flow of customers can be a bit overwhelming.
Seating: Finding a seat can be challenging during peak hours, so if the idea of hunting for a spot makes you anxious, it’s best to visit during non-rush hours, like the morning, when seating is more readily available. Whether you prefer solo seating or group tables, there’s usually something for everyone, but timing matters!
Noise Level: Moderate noise level. While there's some chatter, it doesn’t overpower your focus. It's perfect for those who need some background noise but not a loud environment.
Atmosphere & Environment: Cozy and inviting with warm lighting and a minimalist, calming aesthetic. It’s easy to stay grounded here without feeling overwhelmed by sensory overload.
Clear Layout & Signage: The layout is simple and intuitive, with clear signage for ordering and seating. No need to stress about where to go or what to do next.
Extra reasons we love Loki: It’s located just a block away from our office, they have great coffee, and great outdoor seating!
Social: Instagram
2. Publik Coffee Roasters
Busyness: Publik has a steady stream of people but never feels too busy. The lively crowd creates a productive atmosphere without being chaotic, allowing you to get into the groove while working alongside others.Seating: Plenty of seating options, from solo tables to communal seating, making it adaptable to your needs. The spacious layout means you won’t be scrambling to find a spot.
Noise Level: Moderate to high noise level. While not overly loud, it can be a bit busier at peak times. This may be distracting for some, but it’s perfect for those who need a little buzz to keep their energy up.
Atmosphere & Environment: Publik’s industrial-chic vibe is trendy and visually stimulating without being overstimulating. The clean design and natural light keep things bright and positive, helping with focus.
Clear Layout & Signage: The layout is open and easy to navigate. Clear, concise signage helps direct you to the right areas, from ordering to seating.
Extra reasons we love Publik: They have a great community board to check out local happenings.
Address: 975 S West Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Social Media: Instagram
3. La Barba Coffee
Busyness: La Barba offers a peaceful ambiance with a low-to-medium crowd. It's ideal for focusing on your work with minimal distractions.
Seating: Lots of seating options. The space is well-arranged, ensuring you won’t be left standing.
Noise Level: Low to moderate noise level. This shop has a quieter, more serene atmosphere, which helps those with ADHD focus without being bombarded by background noise.
Atmosphere & Environment: Sleek, modern, and minimalist with clean lines and natural materials. The calm yet inspiring atmosphere fosters focus, making it perfect for a productivity boost.
Clear Layout & Signage: The layout is simple and organized, with no confusion about where to order or where to sit. It’s a straight-to-the-point space where you can jump right into your work.
Extra reasons we love La Barba: La Barba is located in the Maven District on the same block as out office! They are have out of this world good breakfast tocos.
Address: 155 E 900 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Social Media: Instagram
4. Coffee Garden
Busyness: Good for body doubling. Coffee Garden is often busy, but the crowd tends to be relaxed, creating a great environment for working alongside others without feeling overwhelmed. However, it can be very busy at time so if you’re easily distracted it might not be the spot for you.
Seating: Plenty of seating options available, with lots of tables for solo or group work. It can be hard to find a seat during peak hours.
Noise Level: Moderate noise level. There's enough background chatter to feel like you're in a communal space, but not so much that it becomes a distraction.
Atmosphere & Environment: Cozy and welcoming with a warm, homey vibe. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it easier for you to settle in and focus for long periods.
Clear Layout & Signage: The layout is easy to navigate, with clear distinctions between ordering, seating, and bathroom areas. You won't feel lost or confused when you're in the space.
Extra reasons we love Coffee Garden: It’s a Salt Lake institution!
Address: 878 E 900 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Social: Instagram
5. Raw Bean
Busyness: Raw Bean has a steady flow of customers but never feels overwhelming. The consistent activity creates a motivating environment, with just enough people to keep you focused without the chaos.
Seating: While the drive through can get very busy - the inside of Raw bean tends to stay on the quieter side - making it great for studying if you are easily distracted.
Noise Level: The noise level at Raw Bean is moderate, with a pleasant hum of conversation and coffee brewing in the background. It’s perfect for those who need some background noise to stay focused but not so loud that it becomes distracting.
Atmosphere & Environment: The atmosphere is warm and inviting with a laid-back vibe. The rustic decor and natural light create a comfortable and calming environment, ideal for deep work or creative brainstorming. It’s not overly stimulating, making it a great spot for sustained focus.
Clear Layout & Signage: Raw Bean has a simple and clear layout, with easy navigation to ordering areas, seating, and restrooms. The space is thoughtfully organized, so you won’t waste time searching for what you need. The intuitive flow helps minimize distractions and keeps you on track.
Extra reason we love Raw Bean: They have great breakfast burritos and a drive through for when you’re on the go.
Address: 145 E 1300 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Social Media: Instagram
Final Thoughts:
Each of these coffee shops offers a different vibe that could work well depending on your ADHD preferences. Whether you're looking for a quieter, less stimulating space or a more energetic, body-doubling environment, there’s a coffee shop in Salt Lake City for you. Finding the right balance of busyness, seating, noise level, atmosphere, and layout can make all the difference in boosting your productivity and focus.
Which one will you try first? Let me know your favorite ADHD-friendly spots in the comments!
Call to Action: If you’ve found a coffee shop that helps you focus, tag it in a post or comment below! Let’s share our ADHD-friendly favorites.
Happy Studying!
Annalise John, LCSW