Des Moines’s coffee scene is a vibrant mix of cozy cafes and trendy roasteries. In this guide, we curante the city’s top coffeee spots where you can find the best coffee and liveliest local communities.
Each Des Moines neighborhood offers a unique blend of specialty coffee spots. From perfectly brewed espressos to delicious flat whites and cold brews, Des Moines’s coffee shops know their craft. Join us on a journey through Houston’s top coffee spots.
Smokey Row Coffee
9/10 (2501 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-244-2611
Spacious seatingYummy food optionsExtensive drink menu
Located in a bustling neighborhood, Smokey Row Coffee is a go-to spot for many looking for a place to hang out, work, or catch up with friends. With its extensive drink menu and food options, including a Pick Two combo, customers always find something to satisfy their cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet treat like a blueberry scone or a classic peppermint mocha blended drink, the menu has something for everyone. The spacious seating, ample parking, and convenient drive-thru make it a convenient and comfortable place to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee or a quick bite to eat.
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Zanzibar’s Coffee Adventure
9.4/10 (548 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-244-7694
Crafted coffeeDelicious banana breadAttentive baristas
Zanzibar’s Coffee Adventure is a gem in Des Moines, offering crafted coffee drinks that are sure to delight. The mocha breve and sweet cream coffee are must-try items, according to customers. The banana bread is a standout, with great flavor and a moist texture. The baristas are attentive and knowledgeable, adding to the overall welcoming atmosphere of this popular spot. If you find yourself in the area, be sure to stop by for a truly satisfying coffee experience.
The Slow Down Coffee Co.
9.6/10 (269 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-630-7000
Cinnamon honey latteLocal artworkRelaxing atmosphere
The Slow Down Coffee Co. seems to be a favorite among many customers for its cinnamon honey latte, relaxing atmosphere, and friendly staff. Customers appreciate the attention to detail in the drinks, like the delicious honey cinnamon latte and house made almond syrup. The local artwork and community support also stand out, creating a welcoming environment for all. With plenty of seating and a variety of options for drinks and baked goods, The Slow Down Coffee Co. is a must-visit spot for a chill and enjoyable coffee experience.
Friedrichs Coffee
9.4/10 (258 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-279-2919
Tasty coffeeFriendly staffCozy atmosphere
Located in a strip mall, Friedrichs Coffee in Des Moines offers a great cup of coffee and a welcoming atmosphere. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, serving up top-notch espresso shots and a variety of coffee options to suit any preference. The cozy shop also features a selection of loose teas and tasty baked goods, making it a delightful spot to relax and enjoy a quality beverage.
Twisted Bean Coffee Company
9.4/10 (507 reviews)
Welcoming atmosphereSmooth espresso drinksHandmade linoleum printed T-shirts
Twisted Bean Coffee Company offers a welcoming atmosphere with a variety of seating options, making it a great spot to relax or get work done. The espresso drinks are made with smooth, properly roasted beans, and heavy cream is available for an extra touch. The handmade linoleum printed T-shirts add a unique touch to the experience. With a spacious layout and a simple, easy-to-read menu featuring delicious coffee and food options, Twisted Bean is a fantastic local coffee shop worth a visit.
Mayalu Coffee
10/10 (104 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-601-4135
Flavorful drinksWelcoming staffCozy ambiance
Mayalu Coffee offers a unique and delightful coffee experience with a variety of flavorful options on the menu. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere for customers. The space is cozy and provides a great ambiance for enjoying a cup of coffee or working quietly. The drinks, like the Nepali Chiya and Oat Milk Spice Latte, are delicious and provide a unique twist on traditional coffee options.
Grounds for Celebration
9/10 (259 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-255-4863
Fresh pastriesHomemade quichesLocal artisan creations
Grounds for Celebration offers a delightful atmosphere with freshly baked pastries and delicious coffee. The orange cranberry scone, hot chocolate, and white chocolate truffle latte are popular choices. While simple latte art is lacking, the cozy vibe and inviting fireplace make for a warm setting to enjoy your treats. Additionally, the handmade creations by local artisans add a unique touch to the browsing experience. The quiche is a standout item, with customers raving about its taste and quality.
Friedrichs Coffee
9.2/10 (234 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-223-5203
Strong coffeeFriendly staffClean atmosphere
Friedrichs Coffee is a beloved spot in West Des Moines, IA, known for its strong and amazing coffee. The menu offers a variety of snack options that pair perfectly with your caffeine fix. The staff is prompt and friendly, making your visit enjoyable. The industrial vibe of the space adds a unique touch, with clean and sterile facilities. While some customers found the food quality lacking, the high-quality coffee and friendly service make Friedrichs Coffee a great pick-up-and-go spot or a place to meet up with friends. The patio area is a nice touch for enjoying your brew al fresco.
La Barista Coffee
9.6/10 (223 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-267-1808
Fast serviceQuality drinksCozy atmosphere
La Barista Coffee is a cozy, family-owned gem in West Des Moines offering fast and accurate service with amazing quality. The atmosphere is inviting, with friendly staff who treat everyone like family. The menu boasts unique drinks like the Pistachios Latte and Mexican Mocha, along with delicious breakfast options like homemade cinnamon scones and breakfast burritos. Whether you prefer to dine in for a cozy spot or hit up the drive-thru for a quick caffeine boost, La Barista Coffee is definitely worth a visit for a taste of local goodness.
Mahalo’s Coffee & Mini Donuts
9.2/10 (449 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-223-1366
Fresh-made mini donutsUnique flavor varietyHawaiian-themed decor
Nestled in a village center, Mahalo’s Coffee & Mini Donuts offers a unique and satisfying experience. The tiny donuts are made to order, ensuring freshness, and come in a wide variety of flavors to please any palate. Pairing these delectable bites with a cup of delicious coffee guarantees a smile on your face. While the wait for freshly-made donuts can be a bit long, the end result is definitely worth it.
Northern Vessel
9.8/10 (145 reviews)
Friendly staffUnique drink optionsEngaging owner
Northern Vessel is a cozy spot with friendly, attentive staff that go above and beyond to make sure your coffee experience is top-notch. The diverse menu offers high-quality coffee and unique drink options like the strawberry matcha and honey lavender matcha. The relaxed vibe, engaging owner, and free nearby parking add to the overall appeal of this must-visit coffee shop.
Horizon Line Coffee
9.8/10 (683 reviews)
SustainabilityQuality coffeeFriendly staff
Nestled in Des Moines, Horizon Line Coffee stands out for its commitment to sustainability, offering recyclable and reusable glass mugs as part of their unique glass reuse program. The Ethiopian pour-over I ordered was beautifully served and well executed, with just a slight vinegar note that added character. The single origin espresso was a standout, perfectly balanced and expertly extracted, earning high marks in my book. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff add to the charm of this little gem of a coffee spot. With a focus on quality and sustainability, Horizon Line Coffee is a must-visit for coffee lovers in Des Moines.
Daisy Chain Coffee
9.8/10 (210 reviews)
Engaging ownerStellar customer serviceUnique beverage selection
Daisy Chain Coffee is a local gem in Des Moines that offers exceptional coffee and service. The engaging owner provides stellar customer service, making every visit a pleasant experience. The selection of canned beverages and local honeys adds a unique touch to the cafe. The latte art on the drinks is impressive, and the atmosphere is bright and inviting. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just in the mood for a delicious drink, Daisy Chain Coffee is definitely worth a visit.
Hyper Energy Bar West Des Moines
9.4/10 (83 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-644-6155
Delicious flavorsWide beverage optionsCommunity involvement
Hyper Energy Bar in West Des Moines seems to have won over many customers with its delicious flavors and wide range of beverage options. The friendly staff and speedy service have left customers impressed, even in the face of technical issues. The company’s commitment to giving back to the community through donations to cancer patients and its overall positive atmosphere have also garnered praise. With unique drinks like the Bananna Split Blitz and Aftershock, along with sugar-free options and a drive-thru service, Hyper Energy Bar stands out as a must-visit spot for those looking for refreshing and energizing drinks.
St. Kilda Cafe & Bakery
9/10 (1138 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-369-7854
Superb lattesPerfectly prepared breakfastCharming and quirky service
Nestled in Valley Junction, St. Kilda Cafe & Bakery shines in its attention to detail with beautiful cups and saucers adding to the enjoyment of the superb lattes. Seasonal flavors are crafted with care, never leaning towards overwhelming sweetness. The Big Aussie Breakfast is a must-try, with everything from bacon to gluten-free bread prepared to perfection. The welcoming and quirky server adds a personal touch to the experience, making St. Kilda a standout spot for brunch lovers.
Scenic Route Bakery
9.2/10 (701 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-288-0004
Cozy atmosphereHelpful staffDelicious pastries
Scenic Route Bakery offers a cozy atmosphere with helpful and kind staff, making it a great spot to relax with friends. The variety of pastries and drinks, including the delicious lattes and house-made pastries, make it a wonderful place to visit. Despite some minor issues with the salad being overdressed and limited food options, the overall experience is positive, and the burnt croissant incident seems to be an outlier.
Freedom Blend Coffee
9.6/10 (350 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-279-0500
Delicious coffeeSpacious interiorCozy ambiance
Freedom Blend Coffee offers a delightful experience for coffee lovers looking for a peaceful and spacious environment to relax or get work done. The in-house roasted coffee is delicious, with a wide variety of options for both coffee and non-coffee drinkers. The beautiful cabin-like decor adds to the cozy yet spacious feel of the coffee spot, making it a perfect spot for group meetings or one-on-one coffee dates. The staff is attentive and the mission of the café adds an extra layer of warmth to the overall experience.
Ritual Cafe
9.4/10 (428 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-288-4872
Cozy ambienceExcellent breakfast foodFriendly staff
Ritual Cafe is a cozy and inviting spot located in downtown Des Moines. The ambience is artsy, youthful, and warm, perfect for relaxing with a cup of coffee or catching up with friends. The breakfast food is excellent, with a great selection of vegetarian options. The staff is friendly and welcoming, creating a pleasant atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The cappuccino may not be the standout item on the menu, but the coffee is top-notch and well worth a visit.
Grounds For Celebration
9/10 (224 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-271-5022
Varied menuFriendly staffCozy atmosphere
Grounds For Celebration is a charming and cozy coffee spot that offers a varied menu and ample seating both indoors and outdoors. The quirky atmosphere is perfect for catching up with friends over a cup of coffee or indulging in some delicious pastries. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the drinks, such as the mate latte and red eye, are flavorful and satisfying. The fact that they roast their own beans adds to the authenticity of the coffee shop experience, making it a must-visit destination for any coffee lover.
Coffee Cats Cafe
9.4/10 (236 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-897-5410
Cat adoption partnershipCozy atmosphereFriendly staff
Coffee Cats Cafe is a unique gem in Des Moines, offering a delightful blend of coffee and cat companionship. This cafe not only provides a cozy atmosphere and delicious drinks but also the opportunity to spend time with adorable feline friends up for adoption. It’s the perfect place for cat enthusiasts and coffee lovers alike, with the added bonus of supporting animal rescue efforts. The staff is friendly, the vibes are authentic, and the experience is simply heartwarming. Whether you’re savoring a latte, browsing through original art items, or enjoying some quality time with the cats, Coffee Cats Cafe is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to unwind in a truly special setting.