District Coffee Co.
Address: 206 North 200 West #1
Telephone: 801-906-8183
Website: districtcoffeeco.square.site
District: Marmalade
"I think it was actually kind of helpful in a way that we opened in February of 2020, admits Scott Adams, owner of District Coffee Company. He did not have to scale back like so many others at the beginning of COVID, instead Scott and his partner, Cameron Sappa, were able to simply open small. "We only had two employees; we had no real indoor space for seating. We could open with all the guidelines in place, and then just grow as everything was slowly lifted."
Scott, a Salt Lake native, had dedicated over a decade to the coffee industry before embarking on this entrepreneurial journey. His experience spanned various roles, from managing shops in Mill Creek to overseeing operations up Immigration Canyon. The decision to establish District Coffee was catalyzed by a pivotal moment in late 2018 when Scott parted ways with a previous employer. "At this point I hit a fork in the road. I realized that either I was going to become a bartender, where I could make a bit more money, or find something more secure." This transition sparked discussions with Cameron about creating a unique coffee experience, leading them to choose a brand-new space nestled in the Marmalade District. "We didn't want to purchase an already existing coffee shop, but rather we wanted to build our own from the ground up." And, building it from scratch is exactly what they did.
From zoning permits, to being left in limbo by the broker, the two partners pursued their goal of opening a shop on a purely residential street where there were condo units going up - District Coffee stands alone on the corner. Scott quit his job in February of 2020 and seven months later they were up and running. "Covid was our success," Scott reflects. "It allowed us not to bite off more than we could chew." Scott viewed this period as an opportunity to meticulously craft the café’s ambiance and offerings. “It was kind of weird, but also a little bit relieving, because then we didn’t have to hurry."
By the spring of 2022, District found its footing, offering a variety of food selections, and it quickly became their fastest growth year. "We have probably plateaued by now. I don't think we could do much more business than we are in this space," Scott shares with a big smile. Ultimately, he might entertain opening additional spaces around the city, but, according to Scott, each would have a character of its own. He is looking forward to exploring different aspects of what a coffee shop could be.
The café’s design emphasizes clean lines and warmth, creating an inviting atmosphere. Predominantly white interiors are accented with vibrant murals upstairs painted by a good friend. Once a bare space, the men were able to transform it into a cozy nook where patrons often engage in work or study sessions.
District Coffee takes pride in its diverse menu, catering to a wide range of tastes. They feature monthly drink specials and three toast offerings: avocado with a special cilantro sauce, a Cajun turkey sandwich on top of toast with pepper jack cheese, arugula, mustard and mayo, and a Caprese salad on toast with house made pesto, mozzarella, tomato and balsamic - ensuring there is always something delicious for regulars to enjoy. Collaborations with local businesses enhance their selections: pastries from Lone Pine Bakery, bagels from Rich’s Bagels, burritos from Rico (with a variety of options made by District, including vegan), and Sunday donuts from Banbury Cross. Their beverage lineup includes staples from Rimini Coffee and rotating features from specialty roasters like women-owned Equator Coffees, known for their inclusive business practices. And, we cannot forget Monkey Milk, a fun drink directed at kids that is made with milk, bananas and chocolate.
Community engagement is at the heart of District Coffee's mission. The café has become a beloved spot for both locals and visitors, many of whom discover it through nearby Airbnb stays, or simply by strolling the lovely neighborhood. Scott cherishes the connections formed, stating, “It has been a joy to meet our neighbors and get to know all of their personalities.”
In essence, District Coffee Co. exemplifies how passion, adaptability, and community focus can cultivate a thriving business, even in the most challenging times. For Scott, "It is the first time that I don't ever dread going to work, or wishing I had a day off." From driving to Costco to having conversations with dozens of people each day, there is not one single thing that I would want to be different. I enjoy every aspect of this business." Scott feels strongly that every customer deserves his time and patience. "Not everyone understands the world of coffee. I do not want to make anyone feel excluded due to their lack of knowledge." Instead, Scott patiently guides his customers. "I have been making coffee for so long, I feel I have a gentle wisdom that I can pass on to others."
