The monotony of mass-produced products and click-to-order life pales compared to the excitement of finding a hidden gem that sells unique items. Our small businesses aren’t just shops, they’re stories waiting to be discovered.
Looking for a handmade masterpiece? Yearning for a coffee brewed with passion by someone who remembers your name? It’s all here in Salt Lake and here are eight such businesses that make us love our county even more.
Salt & Honey Market
926 E 900 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Salt & Honey Market provides a platform for local designers, crafters, and artists to showcase and sell their creations. Founded and managed by two female entrepreneurs, its mission is to empower creative professionals to establish successful local businesses.
The market resembles an in-person Etsy, offering a variety of goods, including home decor, vintage clothing, jewelry, food items, and artwork. With a focus on ethical production and sustainability, the majority of items are locally sourced and handmade. With three locations hosting over 250 rotating vendors, it’s a vibrant hub for the community to discover locally-made, one-of-a-kind treasures.
Backyard Birds
2698 Highland Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84106
Established in 1998, Backyard Birds proudly stands as Salt Lake City’s premier destination for birding supplies and unique garden gifts. As the state’s oldest independent retailer in this niche, it offers a diverse range of products, including fresh, affordable seeds, birdbaths, birdhouses, and feeders.
Beyond birding essentials, the store has a curated selection of garden gifts and decors. Exclusive offerings such as spicy pickles, “mismatched” socks, and Woodstock wind chimes are also available.
The Store
2050 6200 S, Holladay, UT 84121
The Store is a cult favorite in Salt Lake Valley and a longstanding family-owned and local establishment that has served the community since 1968. Offering a wide array of products, from Utah-made goods to specialty groceries, vegetables and fruits, bakery items, and chef-prepared meals, The Store prides itself on supporting local producers.
While they boast more local products than any other stores, they have an ever-growing catalog of eclectic specialty items that are difficult to find anywhere else. Whether you’re in search of something unique to add to your next meal or simply need a quick snack, head over to this store and see why it’s a beloved shopping destination for many.
Marissa’s Books
3302 S 900 E, Millcreek, UT 84106
Founded in 2013, Marissa’s Books is a local bookstore that aims to share the excitement of reading with every customer. Operating both online and through a physical store in the city, this bookstore offers books at affordable prices.
This bookstore is committed to being a valuable resource in the community, providing reading materials to librarians, homeschooling parents, and educators. Recently, they introduced a weekly discount program and are re-investing in the community by providing Classroom Grants and other literacy programs in the future.
Bjorn’s Brews
2358 Foothill Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84109
Bjorn’s Brew is a family-owned coffee shop in Salt Lake City. Established in 2008, it serves quality, delicious coffee and contributes to animal charities. What started as a single drive-thru has now grown to encompass three different locations.
Every drink is served with a shortbread cookie on the lid for your enjoyment, and real dog bones are also available for your furry friends. With every punch card redeemed, Bjorn’s Brew donates $1 to local animal charities like Nuzzles, Salt Lake County Animal Services, and Therapy Animals of Utah.
Ani-mini-a
280 E 900 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Formerly a beloved brick-and-mortar, Animalia now operates as Ani-mini-a, a downsized pop-up shop within City of Industry. This shop is filled with things that are either refillable, waste-free, vegan, plastic-free, or handmade.
You can purchase environmentally-friendly personal care and household products priced by ounce. This shop supports local artisans and independent brands, encouraging shoppers to make mindful choices that benefit both individuals and the environment.
Capital City Antique Mall
959 S W Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Capital City Antique Mall is the state’s largest collection of antique and vintage treasures, spanning over 10,000 square feet and featuring more than 65 dealer booths. With its eclectic offerings, you can expect to uncover one-of-a-kind items that are so full of character and built to last.
Having served the community for over 20 years, the mall has experienced a recent surge in foot traffic. This revitalized interest includes visitors both young and old, each hoping to find something that connects with their lives. From collectibles to furniture, there’s something that’ll resonate with you.
Old Cuss Cafe
2285 S Main St, South Salt Lake, UT 84115
Old Cuss is a community cafe and specialty coffee shop with a full breakfast and lunch menu. This cafe provides a welcoming space for all, with an emphasis on community and sustainability.
As a full-service restaurant and coffee shop, they proudly serve Marcell Coffee Roasters’ brews and host a curated vintage market. Old Cuss also supports local vendors, including gardens across the city supplying their produce. They prioritize sustainable and ethical sourcing and offer vegan options with local substitutions.
Final Thoughts
While shopping at big-box stores and online can be somewhat more convenient, nothing compares to going into a local store, finding unique items, and receiving excellent customer service. The best part is that shopping locally puts money back into the community, so it’s a win-win for everyone. Give love and support to small businesses by visiting these and other local mom-and-pop stores that help make Salt Lake a special place.
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