Halloween has a magical way of transforming ordinary days into festive experiences, and this year, I decided to fully immerse myself in the holiday spirit. Taking the day off work to join in the daycare parade and help with my daughter Madi's party, I found myself with some time to spare in the morning. This presented the perfect opportunity to explore a coffee shop I had never visited before, Salt Lake Coffee Break, followed by a relaxing visit to Hopkin's Brewery.
Salt Lake Coffee Break greeted me with a vibe that was an eclectic mix of grunge and hipster - a setting that instantly piqued my interest. Settling in with a dirty chai and cheese Danish, I was pleased to find the drink perfectly balanced, with the robustness of espresso blending seamlessly with the spiced sweetness of chai.
Curiosity led me to explore more of their menu, and I couldn't resist trying their Turkish coffee, especially since my recent trip to Turkey had left me longing for that authentic taste. Pairing it with baklava seemed like the perfect choice, though I admit it was a bit unconventional for breakfast. However, my excitement was slightly dampened when the coffee arrived in a to-go cup rather than the traditional tiny coffee cup I had experienced in Turkey. The first half of the drink was smooth and less grainy, which was enjoyable, but it wasn't quite the Turkish coffee experience I was hoping for. Despite this, the baklava was a delightful treat, offering a sweet balance to the coffee's bitterness.
After the coffee break, it was time to join the Halloween parade at the daycare. It was a heartwarming scene, seeing businesses in the block participating and handing out candy to the kids. I cherished being there for my girls, pushing Jules in her stroller and walking alongside Madi.
The energy at Madi’s classroom was electric, with activity tables, other parents, and lively kids creating a joyful chaos. Post the festivities, I slipped away to meet a fellow parent at Hopkin's Brewery for some adult relaxation.
Hopkin's Brewery offered a much-needed contrast with its open and quiet atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and catching up on life. Sitting at the bar, I indulged in French fries and sampled two cocktails - the Jungle Boogie and the Hop Toddy, while my friend enjoyed a beer on tap. The tranquility of the brewery, combined with its excellent selection of beers, cocktails, and even hard kombucha, was exactly what I needed.
I fondly remembered their Espresso Martini from a previous visit, arguably one of the best I’ve ever had. Though I didn’t delve into their full menu this time, past experiences assured me of their culinary prowess, offering great food to complement the drinks.
My Halloween day was a blend of sweet family moments, a coffee exploration with a twist, and a relaxed brewery visit. Salt Lake Coffee Break and Hopkin’s Brewery each have their unique charm and offerings, making them ideal spots for different moods and occasions. Whether you’re looking for a quirky coffee experience or a laid-back brewery vibe, both these places in Salt Lake City are worth the visit. They remind me that sometimes, the best way to celebrate special moments is to simply enjoy the flavors and experiences your city has to offer.
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