Greater Des Moines Coffee Scene
It doesn’t matter what corner of Greater Des Moines (DSM) you go to; good coffee is never far away. From cozy mom-and-pop shops in surrounding small towns to hip East Village roasters with baristas offering art in a cup, there's a wide variety of great brews to enjoy across the coffee shops in DSM.
Coffee Shops in Downtown Des Moines
Whether you’re grabbing a coffee before or during the workday or spending a Saturday exploring the city, Downtown Des Moines (DSM) can match your vibe.
Northern Vessel
Northern Vessel opened its doors on Keo Way in November 2022, bringing an inviting atmosphere and a menu of delicious drinks to the Des Moines coffee scene. What began as a series of pop-up events has grown into a stand-alone shop inside a beautifully renovated building.
For a must-try, order the Spanish latte... It’s a local favorite.
Horizon Line Coffee
In Downtown DSM’s Western Gateway Park neighborhood, Horizon Line Coffee stands out for its commitment to quality coffee and sustainability. Whether you’re enjoying your drink at the shop or taking it to go, beverages are served in reusable glass jars or mugs. This thoughtful touch reflects the brand’s vision: to serve good coffee, care about others and contribute to a better world.
Roman Exprés Café
Tucked within the Equitable Building on Locust Street, Roman Exprés Café is one of Downtown DSM’s hidden gems. Serving premium Miami coffee, plants and Pokémon collectibles, this café is perfect for a coffee connection, a space to work or to enjoy the plants.
Don’t miss their signature Cuban Cortadito, a classic Cuban coffee drink filled with a shot of strong and sweetened espresso and topped with milk.
Scenic Route Bakery
Another East Village favorite, Scenic Route Bakery, is run by father-daughter duo Katy and Mark Nelson. Known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and consistently friendly service, the bakery offers a full menu of pastries, breakfast and lunch items and carefully crafted coffee, tea and soft drinks. Whether you’re popping in for a quiet morning or meeting someone for lunch, Scenic Route provides a quality space.
West End Salvage
Part coffee shop, part vintage escape, West End Salvage offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Surrounded by antiques, soft lighting and nostalgic charm, it’s the kind of place that’s perfect to slow down, explore the shop or catch up with a friend.
Vibrant Coffeehouse + Kitchen
Located in the East Village, Vibrant Coffeehouse + Kitchen serves breakfast all day along with other lunch items, sweets, energy drinks, dirty sodas, coffee and of course – vibes. This neighborhood staple keeps things lively with fresh food, a space welcoming to all and coffee that will keep you coming back for more.
More Downtown DSM Favorites
Explore more Downtown DSM coffee shops.
Stylish Sips and Cozy Corners Across the Region
These coffee shops do more than just serve coffee; they’re community spaces, creative hideaways and little slices of culture.
Porch Light Coffeehouse in Ankeny
In Uptown Ankeny, Porch Light Coffeehouse blends eclectic espresso specialties with a warm, welcoming environment. A fireplace, locally roasted beans from Altoona and a well-loved breakfast menu make the coffeehouse a go-to spot for everything from work sessions to weekend mornings with the family.
Iris Coffee in Pella
In Pella, Iris Coffee goes beyond great drinks to foster real community connections. Every Tuesday, they offer drink deliveries within the community — whether it’s to your home, workplace, or a friend in need of a pick-me-up. For those who stop by the shop, the experience is just as unforgettable. From seasonal lattes that are lit on fire to standout specialty chai, Iris makes every visit feel a little extraordinary.
Somewhere in the Middle Coffee Shop in Bondurant
Nestled in Bondurant, Somewhere in the Middle Coffee Shop offers a relaxed, standalone spot where you can enjoy a variety of teas, smoothies, breakfast sandwiches, and of course, quality coffee. With its laid-back vibe, it’s a great place to catch up with friends, read a book or just stop by for a delicious cup of coffee.
The Coffeesmith in Waukee
The Coffeesmith, located in Waukee, is an independent coffee shop with a vision to serve handcrafted espresso drinks, create connections and build community. With a welcoming atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where conversations flow and work can be done!
Barista's Bouquet in West Des Moines
Step into Barista’s Bouquet in West Des Moines and you’re instantly surrounded by the scent of coffee, homemade syrups and fresh blooms. This floral café sources pastries from The Bake Shoppe, beans from Pammel Park Coffee Co. in Winterset, and flowers from local farms, inviting community members to build community and enjoy a latte infused with florals. As they like to say: “Stop in, take a sip, smell the flowers!”
Great Coffee Shops with Multiple DSM Locations
With several locations throughout the region, these coffee shops make it easy to enjoy a cup of joe wherever you are.
Smokey Row
Smokey Row is a coffee house and old-fashioned soda fountain that originated in Pleasantville, Iowa in 1998, and it quickly expanded into other small towns such as Pella and Oskaloosa. Smokey Row’s first Des Moines location is at 1910 Cottage Grove in Des Moines. Its popularity continues to grow with an additional site in Ankeny’s District area. If you’re in a western suburb, you can also enjoy Smokey Row coffee at a number of Hy-Vee gas stations, too!
Friedrichs Coffee
Friedrichs Coffee brings its commitment to quality, relationships and humanity to three spots across the metro: West Des Moines, Urbandale and Des Moines. Known for its precise craftsmanship and friendly atmosphere, each café reflects the brand’s focus on thoughtful coffee and meaningful connections.
Bonus: Friedrichs is also a coffee roaster and offers coffee subscriptions so you can enjoy the taste at home.
Grounds for Celebration
Grounds for Celebration brings its cozy, yet contemporary vibe to three locations across DSM: West Des Moines, Windsor Heights and Des Moines. Known for its twenty-three varieties of coffee beans, refreshing tea and locally sourced treats, Grounds for Celebration is a reliable go-to for the warm atmosphere and standout drinks.
Twisted Bean
With locations in both Urbandale and Ankeny, Twisted Bean offers convenience and quality no matter which shop you stop at. In Urbandale, guests can enjoy a cozy sit-down space while the Ankeny location is perfect for an on-the-go coffee with its drive-thru only setup. Either way, both spots offer quality coffee.
Vintage Road Coffee
Ever had a handcrafted latte from a truck? Vintage Road Coffee makes it possible, serving coffee roasted in Winterset from a vintage trailer parked in Madrid, right at the intersection of Highway 17 and the High Trestle Trail. Make sure to check their Instagram and website for the most up-to-date information on the traveling truck’s location! They also have an indoor shop inside the MercyOne West Des Moines Medical Center, offering the same quality coffee to those passing through.
Drive-Thru or Grab and Go Favorites
When you’re running late for work but still need that coffee pick me up, stop at these regional favorites:
Local Roasters
You can also enjoy your local Des Moines coffee right at home, thanks to several local roasters.
Explore More
For a full list of coffee shops and roasters within our affiliate community, visit our membership directory.
Your Next Cup Starts Here
Ready to find your new favorite stop for coffee? Request a free relocation guide to learn more about the region or reach out to a MVP with questions.