When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Under the Umbrella Bookstore and Cafe
Why Under the Umbrella Bookstore and Cafe is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Under the Umbrella Bookstore and Cafe offers a unique and inviting space that seamlessly blends a vibrant bookstore with a cozy cafe, making it an excellent place to meet up with friends. Located in Salt Lake City, Utah, it is a queer little bookstore that celebrates queer literature by featuring books written by queer authors. The bookstore cafe is thoughtfully designed to create a warm, safe, and sober environment that welcomes the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and allies, fostering a sense of belonging. The cafe complements the bookstore perfectly by offering a comfortable setting with tasteful decor and seating areas where visitors can enjoy a great cup of coffee or tea while browsing through a carefully curated selection of books. Beyond just books and beverages, Under the Umbrella hosts community events such as book readings, author signings, and themed gatherings, which enrich the cultural experience and provide regular opportunities for socializing and intellectual engagement. The store’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity further enhances its appeal as a cozy and meaningful gathering spot. With its welcoming atmosphere, diverse book collection, and delightful cafe menu, Under the Umbrella is truly a wonderful destination for friends to meet, connect, and enjoy literary and culinary delights together.
Here's what people think of Under the Umbrella Bookstore and Cafe
As of recent, Under the Umbrella Bookstore and Cafe holds a 4.9-star rating based on 345 reviews.
Visitors consistently praise Under the Umbrella Bookstore and Cafe for its warm and inclusive atmosphere, which stands out as a highlight in many reviews. Customers appreciate the welcoming environment where everyone feels safe and valued, especially members of the queer community. Positive reviews frequently mention the curated selection of queer literature, which many say offers both representation and discovery of new voices in the literary scene. The quality of the cafe offerings also receives high marks, including well-prepared coffee and a thoughtful menu catering to various dietary needs. The friendliness and knowledge of the staff are repeatedly noted as enhancing the overall experience, making customers feel engaged and supported during their visits. On the other hand, a small number of negative reviews have pointed out occasional issues such as limited seating availability during peak times or specific menu items being temporarily unavailable. Some guests have also suggested improvements in the speed of service during busy periods. Nevertheless, these critiques appear to be exceptions and do not overshadow the overall sentiment. In conclusion, the reviews portray Under the Umbrella as a highly regarded community space praised for its inclusivity, excellent book curation, and hospitable cafe environment, making it a favored destination for both locals and visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Roarie Yum
So much better than Amazon! Let me see if I can list l all of the ways: real people to chat with and offer book recommendations, a space to feel at ease of who you are, with book reading groups and other community related activities. On the day I was visiting there was an art market with several local artists. I also noticed a lot of local art and artisans within the store. This book store has a large heart. If you need something you can't find, the owner may be able to order it for you and they offer shipping. I look forward to visiting again! Thank you for existing. Thank you for the community work that you do to make it possible to show up authentically.
Scott Mena
A fantastic space for all of your queer reading needs. I love how everything is sectioned from Nonfiction, Fiction, Graphic Novels, Children Books and beyond. The sticker section was near with so many kinds of selections for lesbian to trans designs. There is an additional cafe connected to the store where you can read. They even have discounted items, pride flags, cards, employee book recommendations, and even have specific gender or preference pride flag bookmark sticking out of the books so you know the theme ahead of time. I adore this store. Check it out and feel the love.
Alix Pigott
I’ve been struggling to find horror books that aren’t vaguely sexist and almost every store you go to only has a tiny section all written by cis men. It was so nice to find a whole horror section here of diverse authors! It’s nice to find a place where you see yourself represented without having to dig through a tiny queer section for the exact genre you want. Thank you so much!
Arianna Mills
5-star coffee and service. I got an iced oat milk maple latte. The atmosphere was clean with plants on the tables and lots of posters on the walls. There are board games available for use in the store. Gender neutral bathroom.
Kellum Tate-Jones
The only thing I didn't like about this bookstore is that it's so far from where I live! If you like queer stuff and books, this bookstore will be heaven on Earth for you. I was especially excited to find that they had a PHENOMENAL selection of my favorite kind of books: queer sci-fi. My partner and I walked out with four books and a stack of stickers and pins. Next time I come to Salt Lake, Under the Umbrella will be top of my list to visit!
How to reach Under the Umbrella Bookstore and Cafe
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Website: None
Why Under the Umbrella Bookstore and Cafe may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Under the Umbrella Bookstore and Cafe with your friends?
Gathering with friends or family at Under the Umbrella Bookstore and Cafe offers more than just a casual meetup—it is an invitation to experience a warm, inclusive, and vibrant community hub. This unique space in Salt Lake City is celebrated not only for its extensive and thoughtfully curated stock of books but also for its welcoming atmosphere that embraces diversity, particularly centering queer culture. With a high rating of 4.9 based on 345 reviews, it clearly resonates with many who seek a meaningful place to connect, share, and unwind. The bookstore and cafe together provide a cozy, intimate environment where conversations flow easily over expertly brewed coffee and artisan teas, while shelves full of diverse literature ignite curiosity and discussion. The venue’s commitment to inclusivity creates a safe space where all identities are honored, making it the perfect destination to celebrate friendship and community in an authentic setting. Whether you want to relax, discover new books, attend events, or connect with like-minded people, Under the Umbrella fosters a shared sense of belonging that makes every visit memorable. This is why it stands out as an ideal spot for groups to rally and create lasting moments together.
What activities can you enjoy at Under the Umbrella Bookstore and Cafe that make it perfect for group meetups?
Under the Umbrella Bookstore and Cafe offers a variety of engaging activities that cater perfectly to groups looking for meaningful ways to spend time together. First and foremost, their collection of books provides a treasure trove for bibliophiles interested in queer literature, social justice, and diverse voices, encouraging group discussions or book club gatherings in their cozy reading nooks. For a coffee break or casual chat, the back-of-the-store Umbrella Cafe serves specialty coffee from local roasters such as Queer Wave Coffee and Apostate Coffee, providing an exceptional beverage experience that appeals to all tastes. Additionally, the venue regularly hosts community events like drag queen and drag king story hours, open mic nights, queer tarot readings, and supportive workshops, which are excellent for groups who want interactive and enriching outings. Another unique feature is their free gender-affirming resource table alongside opportunities to write notes of support to incarcerated queer individuals, fostering a sense of collective social responsibility. This combination of culture, conversation, and community makes Under the Umbrella a dynamic and welcoming place for friends and family to gather, unwind, and engage in shared experiences.
How does the atmosphere at Under the Umbrella support inclusive socializing and comfort for everyone?
The atmosphere at Under the Umbrella is carefully cultivated to ensure comfort and inclusion for every visitor. As a space that explicitly centers queer identities and values, it serves as a sanctuary where guests feel safe and accepted without reservation. The interior design is intimate but spacious enough to accommodate groups without feeling crowded, with a main store and additional areas like a gallery and a study room where people can retreat to read, chat, or work quietly. This attention to both privacy and community allows groups to find the perfect balance between socializing and personal space. Staff are known for being friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to help with book recommendations or cafe selections, which enhances the welcoming vibe. The presence of free resources such as gender-affirming items highlights the venue’s commitment to accessibility and support, further contributing to a nurturing environment. Altogether, the inclusive and relaxed ambiance invites visitors to truly be themselves, creating a sense of belonging that enriches every gathering.
What unique events does Under the Umbrella host that make it stand out as a meetup destination?
Under the Umbrella distinguishes itself with a schedule rich in unique, culturally vibrant events that inspire connection and celebration. The bookstore and cafe are known for their drag queen and drag king story hours, which provide entertaining and affirming experiences perfect for groups interested in performance art and queer culture. Open mic nights offer a welcoming platform for local talent to shine, be it through poetry, music, or storytelling, ideal for friends who enjoy participatory entertainment in an intimate setting. Queer tarot readings add a mystical, fun dimension to meetups, inviting attendees to explore identity and intuition together. The venue also organizes book clubs focused on themes of LGBTQ+ literature and social justice, encouraging thoughtful conversation and critical reflection amongst participants. These events not only provide regular reasons to return but also help foster a deeper sense of community among attendees. By blending creative, social, and activist elements, Under the Umbrella offers gatherings that are as enriching as they are enjoyable for groups of all sizes.
How does the location and accessibility of Under the Umbrella contribute to its appeal for group meetups?
Situated at 511 W 200 S, Suite 120 in Salt Lake City, Under the Umbrella Bookstore and Cafe benefits from a central and easily reachable location within the city. This accessibility means friends can conveniently plan meetups without hassle, whether coming from nearby neighborhoods or downtown. The venue is known to be wheelchair accessible and provides a safe space that welcomes everyone regardless of physical ability, enhancing its inclusivity. In addition, ample public transit options and parking facilities near the location make it especially easy for groups to gather without worrying about logistical challenges. Being in a vibrant area with nearby eateries and entertainment options also allows visitors to extend their gatherings beyond the bookstore and cafe. This convenient yet charming location thus encourages spontaneous visits and planned events alike, making Under the Umbrella a natural choice for hosting joyous reunions or quiet afternoons with friends and family.
What makes the food and beverage offerings at Umbrella Cafe special for visitors meeting in groups?
Umbrella Cafe complements the bookstore’s inviting environment with a thoughtfully crafted menu that enhances the group meetup experience. Proudly serving locally sourced Queer Wave Coffee and Apostate Coffee, the cafe offers an eclectic range of coffee and tea beverages that appeal to diverse palates, from rich espresso drinks to comforting herbal blends. The atmosphere encourages lingering conversations over coffee, making it ideal for groups wanting a relaxed, informal setting to reconnect or collaborate. The cafe’s location at the back of the bookstore creates a seamless flow between browsing literature and enjoying refreshments, which keeps group dynamics lively and engaging throughout a visit. Additionally, the menu often includes light snacks and pastries that make it easy to share and enjoy a communal table experience without formal dining. This combination of quality drinks, tasty bites, and community-focused ambiance ensures that groups have a delicious and comfortable place to gather and savor time together.
How does Under the Umbrella support community connection and social activism within group meetups?
Beyond being a bookstore and cafe, Under the Umbrella actively fosters community connection and social activism, making it a meaningful spot for groups passionate about collective empowerment. The venue hosts various initiatives such as free gender-affirming items and a little free library where visitors can donate or take books to share knowledge and resources. Socially conscious projects like letter-writing campaigns offering support to incarcerated queer people allow groups to engage in impactful activities while gathering socially. Book clubs and workshops often emphasize queer histories and contemporary issues, inviting thoughtful discussions that deepen understanding and solidarity. This blend of social outreach and community building makes Under the Umbrella more than just a physical location; it becomes a hub where friends and family can rally not only to enjoy each other’s company but also to contribute positively to the broader community. Such purposeful undertakings enrich meetups with a powerful sense of unity and activism.
What practical amenities and space arrangements support comfortable group gatherings at Under the Umbrella?
Under the Umbrella showcases well-considered amenities and diverse space arrangements that cater to the needs of groups both large and small. Its event space includes a study room and a gallery alongside the main bookstore area, which can hold up to 80 people comfortably—perfect for anything from quieter get-togethers to lively group gatherings. The variety of seating options—ranging from intimate corners for small clusters to larger communal tables—allows groups to customize their experience depending on how personal or social their meeting is. Free Wi-Fi and charging stations are available, supporting work sessions, creative collaborations, or long hangouts where devices stay connected. The inclusive layout ensures people with mobility aids can navigate easily, and the relaxed noise level helps maintain comfortable conversation without the distractions of louder venues. This thoughtful physical setup supports longer visits where groups feel accommodated, enhancing their overall experience at Under the Umbrella.
Why is Under the Umbrella Bookstore and Cafe particularly appealing to diverse groups looking for a safe and affirming space?
Under the Umbrella’s distinct appeal lies in its unwavering dedication to providing a safe, affirming, and empowering environment that celebrates diverse identities, especially within the queer community. Its status as Salt Lake City’s "queerest cafe" entices those who seek spaces where inclusivity is not just a buzzword but a lived reality. Groups composed of mixed ages, orientations, and backgrounds find a refreshing atmosphere free from judgment or exclusion, allowing them to connect authentically. The bookstore’s carefully curated selection of titles amplifies marginalized voices, promoting wider understanding and empathy during group visits. Events and resources specifically designed to affirm queer identities further enhance the venue’s welcoming nature. In a world where safe public spaces can be scarce for marginalized groups, Under the Umbrella stands out as a rare and precious gathering place that nurtures comfort, respect, and celebration for all.
How can visitors make the most out of their meetup experience at Under the Umbrella?
To fully enjoy a meetup at Under the Umbrella, visitors should consider planning their visit around one of the many scheduled events such as open mic nights, book clubs, or story hours, which add special excitement and communal energy to the experience. Arriving during cafe hours—Tuesday to Friday noon to 8 p.m., and weekends 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.—ensures access to the best beverage and snack offerings while the space buzzes with activity. Exploring the bookstore together, sharing favorite finds, or even swapping books can foster deeper conversations and connections. For groups interested in social impact, participating in community initiatives like donating to the free library or writing letters to incarcerated queer people enriches the outing with purpose. Lastly, taking time to use the quiet spaces for intimate chats or creative brainstorming rounds out the visit, allowing everyone to enjoy what Under the Umbrella offers at their own pace. This thoughtful approach maximizes both fun and meaning for all attendees.