You can get a cup of coffee at any old place, but when you want the real coffee shop experience, these 10 spots in Iowa are just what you're looking for...
1. Mars Cafe, Des Moines
Mars Cafe is a locally-owned, artisan coffee shop near Drake University in Des Moines. They serve coffee, espresso, tea, wine, beer, locally baked goods, fresh sandwiches and paninis, and delicious desserts. They exclusively sell Kickapoo Coffee, a fair trade artisan roaster located in Wisconsin. Their delicious coffee will get you hooked, and the fun, unique atmosphere will keep you coming back.
2. Sidecar Coffee Shop, Cedar Falls
Sidecar is a great little spot in Cedar Falls that serves up tasty coffees, espressos, lattes, and other cold drinks, as well as soups, salads, and sandwiches. As an added bonus, almost none of the food or drinks they serve is produced more than five miles away.
3. The Coffee Attic and Book Cellar, Iowa Falls
The Coffee Attic and Book Cellar in Iowa Falls is truly a hidden gem in small town Iowa. They serve up mouthwatering coffee drinks and other treats, and there is a book cellar where you can peruse the shelves, or sit for a while and read. While you're there, be sure to try their Coffee Attic Mocha.
4. Cottonwood Canyon Coffee, Waterloo
Cottonwood Canyon Coffee in Waterloo offers delicious and flavorful coffee, and a great environment to enjoy it in. The staff is friendly, and the beans are roasted on site. If you're looking for a bite to eat, try the jerk chicken rice bowl.
5. The Java House, Iowa City
The Java House, which has several different locations throughout Iowa City, offers great ambiance and flavorful coffee, including organic choices. The Java House is a great place to meet up with some friends, or to just relax with a great cup of coffee and a book.
6. Pierce Street Coffee Works, Sioux City
Pierce Street Coffee Works offers a wide variety of delectable drinks and desserts, including: coffees, cappuccinos, teas, lattes, smoothies, sparkling sodas, muffins, bagels, scones, cookies, cakes, and other pastries baked fresh daily.
7. Ritual Cafe, Des Moines
Ritual Cafe in Des Moines is a locally-owned and operated coffee shop that serves all manner of drinks, including: coffee, espresso, tea, hemp nut smoothies, wine, and beer. They also serve breakfast and a variety of panini sandwiches, as well as locally baked goods. They serve an all vegetarian menu, and there are vegan options as well.
8. Cafe Diem, Ames
Cafe Diem has locations in both Ames and Ankeny, and they offer an assortment of delicious beverages and menu items, including: coffee, lattes, cappuccinos, Chai, decaf, and more. The atmosphere is casual, yet cool, and is a great place to meet up with some friends, catch up on some work, or just relax with a good cup of coffee.
9. Grand Central Coffee Station, Storm Lake
Grand Central Coffee Station in Storm Lake serves tasty coffee, espresso, hot and cold drinks, breakfast and lunch, pastries and other treats. They have two different locations, and they now provide delivery!
10. The Lantern Coffeehouse & Roastery, Sibley
Located in Sibley, the Lantern is another hidden gem in small town Iowa. They are a family-owned and operated coffee house and roastery, and they serve some of the best coffee around. You can also buy their coffee online, to enjoy at home!
What are some of your go-to coffee shops you would add to the list? Share your favorites with us!
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