Nestled within the Sorenson Molecular Biotechnology Building (SMBB) in Salt Lake City, Urban Pioneer Cafe is quickly becoming the go-to spot for faculty, students, and staff seeking delicious, homemade comfort food. Founded by Brooke Woffinden, this cafe is more than just a place to grab a quick bite; it’s a culinary experience rooted in global traditions and crafted with locally sourced ingredients. For those seeking a sustainable and flavorful dining option, Urban Pioneer Cafe offers a unique blend of taste and responsibility.
Brooke Woffinden’s journey with Urban Pioneer began a decade ago as Urban Pioneer Foods, a Salt Lake City catering company known for its scratch-made meals using high-quality ingredients. Expanding in 2014 to include prepared meals for home heating, Urban Pioneer Foods demonstrated adaptability and resilience, especially when the pandemic shifted the landscape of the food industry. Facing the challenge of disappearing catering opportunities, Brooke pivoted her focus to prepared meals, ensuring her business not only survived but thrived. After nine successful years in their original location, Brooke embraced a new chapter, relocating and reinventing her business model to create the Urban Pioneer Cafe we know today. Her journey reflects a spirit of innovation and a deep connection to the Salt Lake City community.
Assortment of breakfast and lunch items at Urban Pioneer Cafe
Drawing on 47 years of culinary expertise, Brooke has curated a menu that showcases homemade comfort food with a global twist. A standout example is her signature Pot Roast Bahn Mi Dip, a delightful fusion of tender pot roast, zesty Thai sauces, and crisp pickled vegetables, all nestled in a French baguette and served with a flavorful au jus for dipping. Urban Pioneer Cafe’s menu is designed to cater to a variety of tastes and schedules, offering breakfast all day alongside a diverse lunch selection. Patrons can also enjoy freshly baked pastries, vibrant fruit cups, and satisfying pasta salads. The cafe boasts a full espresso bar to complement its food offerings, ensuring a perfect pairing for any meal. Everything served at Urban Pioneer Cafe is made in-house, emphasizing Brooke’s commitment to quality and freshness. By prioritizing local ingredients and utilizing compostable packaging for to-go orders, alongside providing reusable dishes and tables for on-site dining, Urban Pioneer Cafe champions both delicious food and environmental responsibility.
Brooke’s dedication extends beyond the kitchen to the sourcing of her ingredients. She cultivates strong relationships with local growers, ensuring a year-round supply of home-grown produce for her dishes. This commitment to exceptional ingredients is a cornerstone of Urban Pioneer Cafe’s success, promising an ever-evolving menu of high-quality, flavorful options. Looking ahead, Brooke envisions expanding Urban Pioneer Cafe’s offerings to include take-and-heat dinners, providing convenient and wholesome meal solutions for busy individuals. Plans are also underway for a user-friendly website featuring online ordering, further enhancing accessibility for customers. The future looks bright for Urban Pioneer Cafe, with ambitions to incorporate more grab-and-go selections, box lunches, and catering services. Brooke Woffinden’s vision and drive suggest that Urban Pioneer Cafe is poised for continued growth and culinary innovation in Salt Lake City.
Urban Pioneer Cafe storefront at Sorenson Molecular Biotechnology Building
Experience the warmth and flavor of Urban Pioneer Cafe for yourself. Located on the west side of the Sorenson Molecular Biotechnology Building (SMBB), the cafe is open Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 3 pm. Support local and savor the exceptional tastes of Salt Lake City’s newest culinary gem.
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