Discover the Rich Aroma and Flavor of the Best Coffee in Des Moines - Top Picks and Hidden Gems Unveiled!

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Discover the best coffee in Des Moines! From rich espresso to perfectly brewed drip, our top picks will satisfy any coffee lover's cravings.


When it comes to coffee in Des Moines, there is no shortage of options. From trendy cafes to cozy coffee shops, the city has it all. But if you're a coffee connoisseur looking for the best brew in town, you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the world of coffee in Des Moines and explore the top spots for a perfect cup of joe.

First up on our list of the best coffee in Des Moines is Mars Cafe. Located in the heart of downtown Des Moines, this charming coffee shop offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that's perfect for relaxation or catching up with friends. But what really sets Mars Cafe apart from the rest is their commitment to quality coffee. Whether you prefer a classic latte or a specialty pour-over, the baristas at Mars Cafe use only the finest beans and brewing methods to create a delicious and satisfying cup every time.

If you're looking for a more unique coffee experience, look no further than Horizon Line Coffee. This specialty coffee shop is known for its innovative brewing techniques and creative flavors. With a rotating seasonal menu, you never know what delicious concoction you'll find at Horizon Line. But one thing is for sure - each cup is crafted with care and precision, resulting in a complex and flavorful coffee that's sure to impress.

For those who prefer a cozy and intimate coffee shop vibe, St. Kilda Cafe & Bakery is the perfect choice. This Australian-inspired cafe offers a laid-back atmosphere and an impressive menu of coffee drinks and baked goods. Their coffee is sourced from local roasters and brewed to perfection, making for a delicious and satisfying cup every time. And with a delicious selection of pastries and breakfast items, St. Kilda is the perfect spot for a lazy weekend morning or a mid-week pick-me-up.

If you're looking for a coffee shop with a focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing, look no further than Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure. This beloved Des Moines institution has been serving up delicious coffee for over 25 years, and they take their commitment to quality and sustainability seriously. All of their coffee is organic, fair trade, and shade-grown, ensuring that the farmers who produce the beans are paid fairly and that the environment is protected. And with a menu that includes everything from classic drip coffee to specialty espresso drinks, there's something for everyone at Zanzibar's.

Another favorite among Des Moines coffee lovers is Scenic Route Bakery. This charming bakery and cafe offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with a menu that includes both sweet and savory treats. But it's their coffee that really shines - using beans from local roasters, Scenic Route creates a rich and flavorful cup that's perfect for sipping while enjoying a pastry or two. And with a convenient location in the East Village, it's the perfect spot to grab a cup of coffee on your way to explore the neighborhood.

For those looking for a more upscale coffee experience, La Mie Bakery is the perfect choice. This French-inspired bakery and cafe offers a refined atmosphere and an impressive menu of coffee drinks and pastries. Their coffee is sourced from some of the best roasters in the country, and each cup is brewed with care and precision. And with a menu that includes everything from classic espresso drinks to unique seasonal specialties, La Mie is the perfect spot for a special occasion or a luxurious treat.

But the best coffee in Des Moines isn't limited to traditional coffee shops and cafes. One of the most unique coffee experiences in the city can be found at Escape Chambers. This escape room facility offers more than just puzzles - they also have a coffee bar that serves up delicious drinks made with locally roasted beans. Whether you're looking to solve a mystery or just enjoy a delicious cup of coffee, Escape Chambers is the perfect spot for an unforgettable experience.

If you're looking for a coffee shop with a focus on community and connection, Smokey Row Coffee is the perfect choice. This locally owned and operated cafe has been a Des Moines favorite for over 20 years, and it's easy to see why. With a warm and welcoming atmosphere and a commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, Smokey Row is the perfect spot for catching up with friends or enjoying a solo study session. And with a menu that includes all your favorite coffee drinks and an impressive selection of baked goods, you're sure to find something to love at Smokey Row.

For those who prefer a more minimalist coffee experience, Horizon Espresso Bar is the perfect choice. This sleek and stylish coffee bar offers a no-frills approach to coffee, focusing on quality and simplicity. Their menu includes classic espresso drinks and pour-overs, all crafted with precision and care. And with a convenient location in the East Village, it's the perfect spot to grab a quick cup of coffee on your way to work or a day of exploring the city.

Finally, we come to Grounds For Celebration - a Des Moines institution that has been serving up delicious coffee and baked goods for over 30 years. With multiple locations throughout the city, Grounds For Celebration offers a warm and inviting atmosphere and a menu that includes everything from classic drip coffee to creative seasonal specialties. And with a focus on using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients, you can be sure that each cup is crafted with care and precision.

Whether you prefer a cozy coffee shop or a sleek espresso bar, Des Moines has plenty of options for coffee lovers. From classic drip coffee to innovative specialty drinks, there's something for everyone in this vibrant and diverse coffee scene. So grab a cup and explore all that Des Moines has to offer - you won't be disappointed!


Introduction

Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, offers a plethora of coffee shops that cater to all types of coffee connoisseurs. Whether you prefer locally roasted beans or exotic blends, there is something for everyone in this city. In this article, we will explore some of the best coffee shops in Des Moines that serve the finest brews.

1. Horizon Line Coffee

Ambience and Decor

Located in the East Village neighborhood, Horizon Line Coffee has a minimalistic yet cozy atmosphere. The shop has an open layout with wooden tables and chairs, making it an ideal spot for studying or catching up with friends over a cup of coffee.

Coffee Selection

The coffee shop serves a rotating selection of specialty coffee from various roasters across the country, including Madcap Coffee, Intelligentsia, and Onyx Coffee Lab. Their espresso-based drinks are particularly noteworthy and are made using a La Marzocco espresso machine.

2. Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure

Ambience and Decor

Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure is a cozy coffee shop that features African-inspired decor and artifacts. The shop has plenty of seating options, including a comfortable couch and armchairs, making it an excellent spot for relaxing with a book.

Coffee Selection

The coffee shop serves a variety of coffee blends that are roasted in-house using ethically sourced beans. Their signature blend, Zanzibar's Adventure Blend, is a must-try for coffee lovers. They also offer a range of tea blends and smoothies for non-coffee drinkers.

3. Scenic Route Bakery

Ambience and Decor

Scenic Route Bakery is a charming bakery and coffee shop located in the East Village neighborhood. The shop features exposed brick walls, wooden floors, and an outdoor seating area that overlooks the Des Moines River.

Coffee Selection

The coffee shop serves a variety of coffee blends that are roasted locally by Mars Cafe. Their pour-over coffee is particularly noteworthy and is made using a Chemex brewer. They also offer a range of baked goods, including croissants, scones, and muffins.

4. Smokey Row Coffee

Ambience and Decor

Smokey Row Coffee is a popular coffee shop that has been serving Des Moines since 1999. The shop features a rustic decor with exposed brick walls and wooden tables. They have two locations in the city, one in the East Village and another in Pleasantville.

Coffee Selection

The coffee shop serves a variety of coffee blends that are roasted in-house using beans sourced from all over the world. Their espresso-based drinks are particularly noteworthy and are made using a Synesso espresso machine. They also offer a range of breakfast and lunch items, including sandwiches and salads.

5. Mars Cafe

Ambience and Decor

Mars Cafe is a popular coffee shop that has been serving Des Moines since 2007. The shop features a modern decor with exposed concrete walls and a minimalist design. They have two locations in the city, one on University Avenue and another on Locust Street.

Coffee Selection

The coffee shop serves a variety of coffee blends that are roasted in-house using beans sourced from all over the world. Their pour-over coffee is particularly noteworthy and is made using a Hario V60 brewer. They also offer a range of vegan and gluten-free options.

Conclusion

Des Moines has no shortage of great coffee shops that serve the finest brews. From locally roasted beans to exotic blends, there is something for everyone in this city. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to work or a place to catch up with friends, you can't go wrong with any of the coffee shops on this list.


A Coffee Lover's Guide to Des Moines: Top Picks for the Best Cup of JoeIf you're a coffee lover in Des Moines, you're in luck. This city is home to some of the best coffee shops and cafes in the Midwest. From classic drip coffee to trendy espresso drinks, there's something for everyone in Des Moines' coffee scene.Enhance Your Morning Routine with These Must-Try Coffee Shops in Des MoinesIf you're looking for a great cup of coffee to kickstart your morning routine, look no further than Horizon Line Coffee. This trendy coffee shop in the East Village neighborhood serves up delicious pour-over coffee and espresso drinks made with locally roasted beans.Another great option for morning coffee is Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure. This cozy cafe in the Drake neighborhood serves up a variety of coffee blends, including their signature Zanzibar blend, which features a mix of African and South American beans.From Espresso to Cold Brew: Discover the Best Coffee in Des MoinesIf you're looking for a great espresso drink, head to Mars Cafe in the Drake neighborhood. This popular coffee spot is known for its expertly crafted espresso drinks, as well as its delicious cold brew coffee.For a unique coffee experience, check out Gong Fu Tea in the Sherman Hill neighborhood. This tea house also serves up a variety of coffee drinks, including a delicious Vietnamese iced coffee made with condensed milk.Sip Your Way through Des Moines: The Ultimate Coffee CrawlIf you want to try a variety of coffee shops in Des Moines, consider going on a coffee crawl. Start your crawl at St. Kilda Surf & Turf in the East Village, where you can enjoy a delicious flat white or cappuccino made with locally roasted beans.Next, head to Grounds for Celebration in the Beaverdale neighborhood. This cozy cafe serves up a variety of coffee blends, as well as delicious pastries and breakfast sandwiches.Finish your coffee crawl at Smokey Row Coffee in the Sherman Hill neighborhood. This popular coffee spot is known for its delicious baked goods, as well as its expertly crafted espresso drinks.Coffee Culture in Des Moines: Uncovering the City's Most Unique CafesDes Moines is home to some of the most unique cafes in the Midwest. One such cafe is Scenic Route Bakery in the East Village. This cozy bakery serves up a variety of coffee drinks, as well as delicious baked goods made with locally sourced ingredients.Another unique cafe in Des Moines is Django. This French-inspired restaurant serves up delicious coffee drinks, as well as a variety of brunch dishes and pastries.Wake Up and Smell the Coffee: Des Moines' Best Roasters and BreweriesDes Moines is home to several great coffee roasters and breweries. One of the best is Roasterie Cafe in the East Village. This coffee shop features a variety of locally roasted beans, as well as a selection of delicious pastries and breakfast dishes.Another great option is DSM Brew Coffee Co., which operates out of a vintage coffee truck. This mobile coffee shop serves up a variety of coffee blends, as well as delicious breakfast sandwiches and pastries.The Perfect Cup of Coffee: How to Find Your Ideal Blend in Des MoinesFinding your ideal coffee blend in Des Moines is easy, thanks to the city's many great coffee shops and cafes. If you prefer a bold, flavorful coffee, try the Dark Matter blend at Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure.If you prefer a lighter, more delicate coffee, try the Ethiopia Yirgacheffe blend at Horizon Line Coffee. This coffee has a bright, fruity flavor that's perfect for a sunny morning.The Local's Guide to Des Moines Coffee: Hidden Gems and Neighborhood FavoritesIf you're looking for hidden gems and neighborhood favorites in Des Moines' coffee scene, check out Mars Cafe in the Drake neighborhood. This popular coffee spot is known for its expertly crafted espresso drinks and delicious cold brew coffee.Another great option is Grounds for Celebration in the Beaverdale neighborhood. This cozy cafe serves up a variety of coffee blends, as well as delicious pastries and breakfast sandwiches.Brewing Up a Storm: Des Moines' Most Creative Coffee ShopsDes Moines is home to several creative coffee shops that are pushing the boundaries of what's possible with coffee. One such shop is Gong Fu Tea in the Sherman Hill neighborhood. This tea house also serves up a variety of coffee drinks, including a delicious Vietnamese iced coffee made with condensed milk.Another creative coffee shop is St. Kilda Surf & Turf in the East Village. This coffee shop features a variety of unique coffee drinks, as well as a selection of delicious food items.From Classic to Trendy: A Tour of Des Moines' Best Coffee Shops and CafesIf you want to experience the full range of Des Moines' coffee scene, consider going on a tour of the city's best coffee shops and cafes. Start your tour at Horizon Line Coffee in the East Village, where you can enjoy a delicious pour-over coffee or espresso drink.Next, head to Roasterie Cafe in the East Village. This coffee shop features a variety of locally roasted beans, as well as a selection of delicious pastries and breakfast dishes.Finish your tour at Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure in the Drake neighborhood. This cozy cafe serves up a variety of coffee blends, including their signature Zanzibar blend.In conclusion, Des Moines is a great destination for any coffee lover. With so many great coffee shops and cafes to choose from, you're sure to find your perfect cup of joe in this charming Midwestern city.

Best Coffee in Des Moines: A Personal Perspective

Introduction

As a coffee lover, I have had the opportunity to try several coffee shops in Des Moines. In this article, I will share my point of view about the best coffee in Des Moines, along with their pros and cons.

The Best Coffee Shops in Des Moines

After trying several coffee shops in Des Moines, I have found that the following three are the best:

  1. Mars Cafe

    • Pros:
      • Great variety of coffee options, including pour-over, cold brew, and espresso-based drinks.
      • Cozy atmosphere with plenty of seating and natural light.
      • Delicious pastries and breakfast sandwiches.
    • Cons:
      • Can get crowded during peak hours, making it difficult to find a seat.
      • Prices can be slightly higher than other coffee shops in the area.

  2. Scenic Route Bakery

    • Pros:
      • Wide selection of coffee drinks, including seasonal specials.
      • Offers both indoor and outdoor seating with a great view of the river.
      • Homemade baked goods and breakfast options.
    • Cons:
      • Can be noisy due to its location near the river and bike trail.
      • Can get crowded during peak hours, making it difficult to find a seat.

  3. Smileys Coffeehouse

    • Pros:
      • Offers a variety of coffee drinks and loose-leaf tea options.
      • Great outdoor seating area with plenty of shade and a garden-like atmosphere.
      • Live music on weekends.
    • Cons:
      • Indoor seating can be limited and cramped.
      • Can be difficult to find parking during peak hours.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the best coffee shop in Des Moines depends on personal preference. However, based on my experience, Mars Cafe, Scenic Route Bakery, and Smileys Coffeehouse are three of the best options in the city.


Discover the Best Coffee in Des Moines

Welcome to our blog post about the best coffee spots in Des Moines! If you're a coffee lover, you've come to the right place. Des Moines is home to many top-notch coffee shops that serve up delicious coffee and provide a cozy atmosphere to enjoy it in. We've scoured the city to bring you the ultimate guide to the best coffee in Des Moines.

First up on our list is Mars Cafe, located in the historic Drake neighborhood. This coffee shop has a laid-back vibe and serves up some of the best coffee in town. They offer a variety of unique drinks, including their signature Honey Badger latte, made with honey and cinnamon. The baristas here are knowledgeable and passionate about coffee, and they always make sure your drink is perfectly crafted.

If you're looking for a trendy spot to grab your caffeine fix, head over to Horizon Line Coffee. This shop is located in the East Village and has a sleek, modern interior. They serve up a variety of specialty drinks, including their famous espresso tonic, which is made with espresso, tonic water, and a slice of lemon. The coffee here is always fresh and flavorful, and the baristas are friendly and welcoming.

For a more traditional coffee shop experience, check out Java Joe's. This Des Moines staple has been serving up coffee since 1991 and has become a beloved institution in the city. They offer a wide variety of coffee drinks, as well as baked goods and sandwiches. The atmosphere here is cozy and inviting, and it's the perfect spot to relax with a good book or catch up with friends.

If you're a fan of pour-over coffee, you'll definitely want to visit Horizon Line's sister coffee shop, Thelma's. This shop is located in the Beaverdale neighborhood and specializes in pour-over coffee. They offer a variety of single-origin coffees, and the baristas are experts at brewing them to perfection. The atmosphere here is cozy and intimate, and it's the perfect spot to enjoy a quiet cup of coffee.

No guide to the best coffee in Des Moines would be complete without mentioning Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure. This quirky coffee shop is located in the Court Avenue district and has a fun, eclectic atmosphere. They offer a wide variety of coffee drinks, as well as smoothies and baked goods. The real highlight here, though, is their outdoor seating area, which is perfect for people-watching on a sunny day.

Another great option for coffee in Des Moines is St. Kilda Surf & Turf. This Australian-inspired cafe serves up some of the best coffee in town, as well as delicious food. They offer a variety of coffee drinks, including their signature magic drink, which is a double shot of espresso with steamed milk. The atmosphere here is laid-back and beachy, and it's the perfect spot to grab a coffee and relax.

If you're looking for a coffee shop with a mission, check out Freedom Blend Coffee. This shop is located in the Drake neighborhood and is dedicated to supporting refugees and their families. They offer a variety of coffee drinks, as well as baked goods and sandwiches. The atmosphere here is warm and welcoming, and you can feel good knowing that your purchase is making a difference in someone's life.

For a truly unique coffee experience, head over to Grounds For Celebration. This coffee shop has two locations in Des Moines and specializes in flavored coffee. They offer over 100 different flavors, ranging from classic options like hazelnut and French vanilla to more unique flavors like s'mores and butter pecan. The atmosphere here is cozy and inviting, and it's the perfect spot to satisfy your sweet tooth.

If you're a fan of cold brew coffee, you'll definitely want to visit Scenic Route Bakery. This bakery and coffee shop has two locations in Des Moines and specializes in cold brew coffee. They offer a variety of flavors, including their popular lavender vanilla flavor. The atmosphere here is cozy and charming, and it's the perfect spot to grab a coffee and a pastry.

Lastly, we can't forget about Smokey Row Coffee. This Des Moines staple has been serving up coffee since 1995 and has become a beloved institution in the city. They offer a wide variety of coffee drinks, as well as baked goods and sandwiches. The atmosphere here is cozy and inviting, and it's the perfect spot to catch up with friends or get some work done.

That concludes our guide to the best coffee in Des Moines! We hope you found it helpful and that you're inspired to go out and try some of these amazing coffee shops for yourself. Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a cozy spot to relax, there's something for everyone in Des Moines. So grab a friend, head out, and enjoy some of the best coffee in town!


People Also Ask About Best Coffee in Des Moines

What are the best coffee shops in Des Moines?

Des Moines has a variety of coffee shops to choose from. Here are some of the best:

  • Scenic Route Bakery - known for their unique blend of coffee and freshly baked pastries.
  • Mars Cafe - a trendy spot with a great selection of espresso drinks and a cozy atmosphere.
  • Grounds For Celebration - a local favorite that offers delicious coffee and homemade baked goods.
  • Smileys Coffeehouse & Roasters - known for their fresh roasted coffee and specialty drinks.
  • Java Joe's - an iconic coffee shop in Des Moines that has been around for over 25 years, offering a wide range of coffee drinks.

What makes a good cup of coffee?

A good cup of coffee depends on personal preference, but generally it should have a balance of acidity, bitterness, and sweetness. It should also be freshly roasted and brewed using high-quality beans. The brewing method and equipment can also affect the taste of the coffee.

What types of coffee drinks are popular in Des Moines?

Des Moines has a variety of popular coffee drinks, including:

  1. Flat White - a creamy espresso-based drink with steamed milk.
  2. Cold Brew - coffee that is brewed using cold water for a smoother, less bitter taste.
  3. Americano - espresso shots topped with hot water.
  4. Cappuccino - equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam.
  5. Mocha - espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup.

Are there any coffee shops in Des Moines that roast their own beans?

Yes, there are a few coffee shops in Des Moines that roast their own beans, including:

  • Smileys Coffeehouse & Roasters
  • Roast House
  • Mars Cafe
  • St. Kilda Cafe & Bakery