I don’t know about you, but I can’t imagine life without coffee. Lucky for me and my fellow caffeine enthusiasts, Des Moines is filled with fantastic coffee houses! In fact, there are so many wonderful mom-and-pop coffee shops around the city, it can be hard to pick a favorite. However, I’ve challenged myself to select the top five that I adore and I challenge you to sample them all.
St. Kilda Cafe & Bakery
First on the list is St. Kilda. This Australian inspired cafe & bakery is so popular, you’re going to want to reserve a table. Their delectable menu is centered around healthy and modern (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) dishes which feature freshly baked breads, artisanal coffees, and a full bar. No matter what you’re craving, you’re sure to find something to satisfy you at St. Kilda.
What People Are Saying About St. Kilda Cafe & Bakery
“Want some Aussie inspiration? Then this is the place to go. St. Kilda has a cool-hip atmosphere with exceptionally great service. The food presentation is also spot on and everything tastes fresh. I appreciate the large plates and gluten-free options. There is free street parking available which is a plus for downtown. Definitely, recommend this place to locals and DSM visitors.” - Kati
Smokey Row
The motto of Smokey Row is “good coffee. Good people.” and it is evident in every aspect of the place. The first thing that will seduce your senses at Smokey Row is the perfect coffee house atmosphere featuring brick walls and cozy seating which make you feel like you’re relaxing in a loft. On cold days, I love to listen to their live music and curl up with their chicken pot pie. When it’s warmer out, you have to indulge in their signature Smokey Row shake and their cheeseburger chowder, which is served in a delicious bread bowl.
What People Are Saying About Smokey Row
“I LOVE this place. The atmosphere is great for casual dining and for studying. There's a ton of outlets around for plugging in your devices. The ice cream is absolutely amazing. And the coffee? Even BETTER. The staff is always nice and they know their stuff when it comes to brew! Definitely try the Reese's sundae if you're a chocolate and peanut butter fan. You can't go wrong!” - Samantha
Friedrichs Coffee
This list just wouldn’t be complete without including the award-winning Friedrichs Coffee. These people don’t mess around when it comes to crafting the highest quality coffee and serving it up in style. Their dedication to showcasing amazing coffee starts with buying their coffee beans from small private farms in the most prestigious and regions in the world and continues through their process of hand-roasting them in small batches using gas-fired European drum style roasters. You can also purchase packages of their coffee for home.
What People Are Saying about Friedrichs Coffee
“Good variety of products and fantastic staff. Lots of regulars and the local artwork on walls changes often. Recommend it to coffee lovers and non-franchise atmosphere people.” - Curt
Rich's Brew
Every time you return to Rich’s Brew, you will feel like you’ve come home. Be prepared to become a regular here because their custom coffee blends will seduce you from the first sip. While I’m a huge fan of the flavored coffees and lattes, I’m really crazy for their desserts. From the lemon bars to the pies and everything in between they’re all insanely delicious.
What People Are Saying About Rich’s Brew
“I was visiting family in Iowa and stopped at Rich's. The main thing you need to know is that this isn't what 'the kids' would consider a coffee shop. It is very much a throwback 'back to basics' coffee shop. If you're a fan of actual coffee, then I heartily recommend stopping at Rich's. It is super apparent that Rich loves his job and he's one of the nicest people you'll ever meet. Not only that, but the coffee is surprisingly great. This isn't an exaggeration, his coffee has changed my entire outlook on a basic cup of coffee. You can order the beans he uses from his website, which I am seriously thinking of doing to up my coffee game back home in North Dakota.” - Adam
Luke's Coffee Hub
Finally, rounding out my list is Luke’s Coffee Hub where you can curl up in one of their comfy leather chairs and sip away for hours. Luke’s isn’t the biggest place, but what it lacks in space and seating it more than makes up for with its menu and the quality of the drinks on it. Oh and if you’re a chocolate lover (who isn’t?!) you owe it to yourself to check out Luke’s because there are more than 10 specialty drinks that will serve as the perfect chocolate fix.
What People Are Saying About Luke’s Coffee Hub
“If your 2019 resolutions include supporting small businesses, bypass the Wal Mart and grab a coffee! Luke's is reasonably priced and everything is high quality and delicious. The owner is usually the barista, and his coffee skills are ridiculous.” - Stefanie
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