West Des Moines is home to many great coffee shops. You’ll find a variety of spots to enjoy a tasty cup of joe.
From cozy cafes to trendy spots, there’s something for everyone.
You can discover local favorites and hidden gems serving up delicious brews. These coffee shops offer more than just caffeine. They provide welcoming spaces to relax, work, or meet up with friends.
Get ready to explore the best coffee shops West Des Moines has to offer.
1. Hyper Energy Bar West Des Moines
You’ll love the vibrant atmosphere at Hyper Energy Bar in West Des Moines. This spot is all about bringing energy and excitement to your day.
The friendly staff, called Energistas, mix up drinks with flair while playing upbeat music.
You can expect fast service and a fun experience every time you visit.
Hyper Energy Bar aims to do more than just serve drinks. They want to boost your mood and get you pumped for the day ahead. It’s a great place to grab a pick-me-up when you need it most.
You’ll find a wide range of energizing drinks here, all made exactly how you like them. The lively vibe and personalized service make Hyper Energy Bar stand out from other coffee shops in the area.
Rating: 4.7 (107 reviews)
Location: 675 S 60th St, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Contact: (515) 644-6155
Website: Visit Website
2. La Barista Coffee
La Barista Coffee is a cozy spot that’s been serving up great coffee since 1995. You’ll find more than just a drive-thru here – step inside to enjoy their comfy seating options.
The shop takes pride in offering fair trade coffee from top-quality arabica beans. Their master roasters ensure each cup is perfectly roasted for a great taste experience.
Beyond coffee, La Barista is known for its tasty food. You can start your day with their homemade cinnamon rolls or grab a breakfast burrito.
It’s a family-run and veteran-owned business that puts care into every item they serve.
If you’re looking to work or study, La Barista has you covered with free WiFi. You can settle in at the bar, snag a booth, or find a quiet corner to focus on your tasks.
Rating: 4.8 (231 reviews)
Location: 1963 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50265
Contact: (515) 267-1808
Website: Visit Website
3. Friedrichs Coffee
You’ll find a warm welcome at Friedrichs Coffee in West Des Moines. The staff is known for their kindness and excellent customer service. They’ll make you feel right at home as soon as you walk in.
Friedrichs offers a great variety of coffees and teas to suit your taste. Their flavored coffees are a hit with customers. You might want to try their peach black tea, which is said to be delicious.
Quality is a top priority at Friedrichs. They roast their own beans, ensuring you get a premium product every time.
Whether you order a latte or a regular brew, you’re in for a treat.
If you’re feeling under the weather, give their wellness tea a try. It’s calming and might help you feel better. Friedrichs Coffee is more than just a coffee shop – it’s a place where you’ll find great drinks and friendly faces.
Rating: 4.6 (243 reviews)
Location: 1821 22nd St STE 101, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Contact: (515) 223-5203
Website: Visit Website
4. Corazon Coffee Roasters
You’ll find a cozy and welcoming atmosphere at Corazon Coffee Roasters in West Des Moines. This local gem offers a great spot to relax with friends or get some work done.
Corazon takes pride in their coffee. They roast their own beans, ensuring a fresh and flavorful cup every time. You can taste the care they put into each brew.
If you’re not in the mood for coffee, don’t worry. Corazon also has a nice selection of loose leaf teas.
You can choose from white, green, or black varieties. Each 2-ounce bag makes up to two gallons of tea.
The staff at Corazon are friendly and knowledgeable. They’re happy to help you pick out the perfect drink or answer any questions you might have about their offerings.
Rating: 4.9 (55 reviews)
Location: 516 Elm St, West Des Moines, IA 50265
Contact: (515) 279-0800
Website: Visit Website
5. PerKup Cafe
PerKup Cafe is a cozy spot in West Des Moines where you can grab a tasty breakfast or lunch. It’s tucked away in the Governor Square Complex, making it a perfect hideaway for a quick bite or coffee break.
You’ll love their homemade food, especially the French toast. It’s made with Big Sky’s apple cinnamon bread and a secret batter that will make your taste buds dance.
Don’t miss out on trying their hashbrowns too – they’re said to be the best in town!
For a special treat, order the hashbrown taco. It’s loaded with sour cream, cheese, green onion, and bacon. It’s a unique twist on a breakfast favorite that you won’t find just anywhere.
PerKup Cafe offers a full range of coffee drinks to go with your meal. Whether you need a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon boost, you’ll find the perfect brew to suit your mood.
Rating: 4.6 (963 reviews)
Location: 2700 University Ave Suite 324, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Contact: (515) 270-1466
Website: Visit Website
6. SweetDude Coffee & Café
SweetDude Coffee & Café is a gem in Clive, just outside West Des Moines. You’ll love the warm, welcoming atmosphere as soon as you step inside. The staff greets you with friendly smiles and makes you feel right at home.
Their coffee is top-notch, with a variety of blends and roasts to suit your taste. You can enjoy a rich espresso or a smooth latte, crafted to perfection. The baristas take pride in their work and it shows in every cup.
Don’t miss out on their tasty café menu. You’ll find a selection of fresh pastries and light bites that pair perfectly with your coffee.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a leisurely breakfast, SweetDude has you covered.
It’s a great spot to catch up with friends or get some work done. The cozy seating and relaxed vibe make it easy to spend a few hours here. You’ll often see regulars chatting or students studying at the tables.
Rating: 4.9 (140 reviews)
Location: 9763 University Ave, Clive, IA 50325
Contact: (515) 509-0915
Website: Visit Website
7. Coffee Cats Cafe
Coffee Cats Cafe offers a unique experience where you can enjoy your coffee surrounded by furry feline friends. For a $10 cover fee, you get to spend an hour in the cat lounge with 10-12 adorable kitties.
The cafe serves coffee from Grounds for Celebration, known for its excellent quality. You can grab a drink and relax in the cozy atmosphere, even without a reservation for the cat lounge.
Keep in mind that cats love their naps, so you might find some sleepy kitties during your visit. But don’t worry – there’s always a mix of personalities, from nappers to playful zoomers, making each visit special.
Remember that these cats are waiting for their forever homes. Your visit helps support their care while they stay at the cafe. It’s a great way to enjoy some quality coffee time while helping local felines.
Rating: 4.7 (245 reviews)
Location: 312 5th St, West Des Moines, IA 50265
Contact: (515) 897-5410
Website: Visit Website
8. Grounds For Celebration
You’ll love Grounds For Celebration, a cozy coffee shop in West Des Moines. This local gem offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for enjoying your favorite brew.
Grounds For Celebration takes pride in their coffee. They roast specialty grade beans on-site at their Beaverdale location.
You can choose from 23 different varieties of coffee to find your perfect cup.
Tea lovers, rejoice! The shop offers 20 varieties of fresh whole leaf teas. From green and white to oolong and black, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your taste.
Feeling hungry? Grab a fresh pastry or try their lunch menu. You can enjoy quiche, chicken salad sandwiches, and other tasty treats throughout the day.
Rating: 4.5 (227 reviews)
Location: 6601 University Ave # 104, Windsor Heights, IA 50324
Contact: (515) 271-5022
Website: Visit Website)
9. Smokey Row Coffee
Smokey Row Coffee is a cozy spot in West Des Moines. You can enjoy a great cup of joe here. The shop’s motto, “Good Coffee. Good People,” perfectly captures its warm and welcoming atmosphere.
You’ll find a variety of seasonal specials here. These give you the chance to try something new with each visit. The friendly staff will make you feel right at home as soon as you walk through the door.
Whether you’re looking for a quick morning pick-me-up or a place to relax and catch up with friends, Smokey Row has got you covered. Their menu offers something for everyone, from classic drip coffee to fancier espresso drinks.
Don’t forget to check out their food options too. You can grab a tasty snack or light meal to go along with your coffee, making it a perfect spot for a casual lunch or afternoon break.
Rating: 4.4 (51 reviews)
Location: 300 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50265
Contact: (515) 705-0764
Website: Visit Website
10. St. Kilda Collective
St. Kilda Collective is a gem in West Des Moines. You’ll find a cozy spot to enjoy your morning coffee or grab a quick lunch with friends.
The menu offers a variety of options. From fresh-baked pastries to full breakfast and lunch dishes, there’s something for everyone. Their artisanal coffee drinks feature Counter Culture Coffee, known for its quality.
If you’re looking for a place to unwind after work, St. Kilda has you covered. They offer a full bar with cocktails, beer, and a selection of organic and natural wines. It’s perfect for a casual evening out.
Planning an event? St. Kilda Collective has a 1200 sq ft private space you can rent. It’s great for birthdays, work gatherings, or any special occasion you want to celebrate.
Rating: 4.5 (519 reviews)
Location: 333 5th St, West Des Moines, IA 50265
Contact: (515) 705-2030
Website: Visit Website
Coffee Culture in West Des Moines
West Des Moines has a thriving coffee scene with unique local trends and a strong sense of community. You’ll find plenty of spots to enjoy a great cup and connect with others.
Local Coffee Trends
You’ll notice some fun trends in West Des Moines coffee shops. Many cafes use local roasters and focus on high-quality beans. Pour-over and cold brew methods are popular.
Some shops offer fun seasonal drinks like pumpkin spice lattes in fall. Others get creative with add-ins like lavender syrup or house-made caramel.
Latte art is big here too. Baristas create pretty designs in your foam. You might see hearts, leaves, or even more complex pictures.
Plant-based milk options are widely available for those avoiding dairy. Oat milk is a favorite non-dairy choice.
Community and Coffee
Coffee shops in West Des Moines are more than just places to grab a drink. They’re community hubs where people gather.
You’ll often see friends catching up over lattes. Students camp out with textbooks and laptops. Business meetings happen over cappuccinos.
Many cafes host events like open mic nights or local art shows. This brings neighbors together and supports area talent.
Some shops partner with local bakeries and food makers. You can enjoy tasty treats along with your coffee.
Friendly baristas remember regulars’ orders and chat with customers. This personal touch makes you feel at home.
The Art of Coffee Brewing
Making great coffee is a skill that combines science and creativity. You can explore different methods and ingredients to find your perfect cup.
Different Brewing Methods
You have many options for brewing coffee at home. Pour-over is a popular choice that gives you control over the process. You slowly pour hot water over ground coffee in a filter. This method lets you adjust the flavor by changing how fast you pour.
French press is another common method. You mix coarse grounds with hot water in a special pot. After a few minutes, you press down a plunger to separate the liquid from the grounds. This creates a rich, full-bodied coffee.
For a quick cup, you might use a drip machine. These automate the brewing process. You just add water and grounds, then let the machine do the work.
The Importance of Fresh Ingredients
Fresh coffee beans are key to a great cup. Look for beans with a recent roast date. Whole beans stay fresh longer than pre-ground coffee. Try to use them within a few weeks of roasting.
Grind your beans just before brewing. This preserves their oils and flavors. A burr grinder gives you the most consistent results. You can adjust the grind size for different brewing methods.
Water quality matters too. Use filtered water if your tap water has a strong taste. The ideal water temperature is just below boiling, around 195-205°F. This helps extract the best flavors from your coffee without making it bitter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Coffee lovers in West Des Moines have lots of questions about the best spots to get their caffeine fix. Let’s explore some common queries about local coffee shops and roasters.
What are the top-rated coffee shops in West Des Moines?
Hyper Energy Bar West Des Moines and La Barista Coffee are two highly rated spots. You’ll find great coffee and friendly service at both places. Customers love the cozy atmosphere and tasty drinks.
Where can I find the best local coffee roasters in Des Moines?
Corazon Coffee Roasters is a top choice for freshly roasted beans. You can visit their shop to buy beans or enjoy a cup of their expertly roasted coffee. They offer a range of roasts to suit different tastes.
Can anyone recommend a cozy coffee shop in downtown Des Moines?
While not in downtown, PerKup Cafe in West Des Moines offers a cozy vibe. You’ll feel right at home with their comfy seating and warm decor. It’s a great spot to relax with a book or catch up with friends.
Are there any must-visit coffee spots near Jordan Creek Mall?
Friedrichs Coffee has a location near Jordan Creek Mall. You can grab a quick cup while shopping or sit and enjoy their coffee drinks. They offer a variety of blends and flavored coffees.
What are some favorite coffee places in Des Moines’ East Village?
This FAQ focuses on West Des Moines, but East Village has its own coffee scene. You might want to explore that area for more options on your next coffee adventure.
Where might one find the best espresso drinks in West Des Moines?
La Barista Coffee is known for their skilled baristas and great espresso. You can try their lattes, cappuccinos, or straight shots of espresso. They take pride in crafting each drink to perfection.