Back to the Real Salt Lake Newsfeed

Publik Coffee takes over landmark Big Ed’s near Utah campus, promising affordable breakfasts, burgers and beer

The new shop will replace Big Ed’s, 210 University Ave, across from Presidents Circle. The hole-in-the-wall breakfast, beer and burger joint mysteriously closed in September after nearly 50 years in business.

Publik Coffee owner Missy Greis has named the new venture Publik Ed’s — a nod to its proximity to the U. and its predecessor.

Initially, Greis wanted to keep the “divey and dark” feeling of Big Ed’s interior, but the building’s age and condition required a major remodel, which is now underway, to meet fire, safety and Americans with Disabilities Act standards.