Ames, Iowa is a great place to grab a cup of coffee. The city has many cozy spots where you can enjoy your favorite brew.
From small local cafes to bigger chains, there’s something for everyone.
You’ll find coffee shops in Ames that offer more than just drinks. Some places have live music and events. Others are perfect for studying or meeting friends.
Whether you want a quick espresso or a relaxing afternoon, Ames has coffee shops to fit your needs.
1. Morning Bell Coffee Roasters
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Morning Bell Coffee Roasters in Ames. This local gem roasts their own beans, ensuring you get the freshest cup of joe possible.
The skilled baristas craft delicious espresso drinks and pour-overs. You can also grab a pastry or light bite to go with your coffee.
Morning Bell is a great spot to catch up with friends or get some work done. The friendly staff and warm ambiance make you feel right at home.
You’ll appreciate their commitment to quality and sustainability. They source beans ethically and use eco-friendly practices in their roasting process.
Rating: 4.8 (312 reviews)
Location: 111 Main St #101, Ames, IA 50010
Contact: (515) 257-6637
Website: Visit Website
2. Cafe Diem
Cafe Diem is a cozy spot in Ames that you’ll love. It’s a great place to grab a cup of coffee and relax. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for catching up with friends or getting some work done.
You’ll find a wide selection of drinks to choose from. Their coffee is always fresh and delicious. They also offer tasty snacks and pastries to go with your beverage.
The staff at Cafe Diem are friendly and helpful. They’re happy to answer questions about the menu or suggest something new to try. You’ll feel welcome as soon as you walk in the door.
Cafe Diem has a conference room you can reserve. This makes it a great spot for small meetings or study groups. It’s a nice option if you need a quiet space away from the main cafe area.
Rating: 4.6 (597 reviews)
Location: 229 Main St, Ames, IA 50010
Contact: (515) 956-3556
Website: Visit Website
3. Burgie’s Coffee | South Ames
You’ll find a cozy and welcoming atmosphere at Burgie’s Coffee in South Ames. This local favorite offers a perfect spot to relax or catch up with friends over a delicious cup of joe.
The baristas at Burgie’s take pride in crafting high-quality beverages. You can choose from a variety of coffee drinks, teas, and specialty options to suit your taste.
Burgie’s South location is conveniently situated on Airport Road. It’s an ideal stop for a quick pick-me-up or a leisurely coffee break. The friendly staff and comfortable seating make it a great place to work or study too.
Rating: 4.6 (600 reviews)
Location: 110 Airport Rd, Ames, IA 50010
Contact: (515) 233-9004
Website: Visit Website
4. Lockwood Cafe
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Lockwood Cafe. It’s a hidden gem in Ames that serves up delicious coffee and tasty treats. The friendly staff will make you feel right at home as soon as you walk in.
The cafe takes pride in their high-quality brews. You can choose from a variety of coffee drinks, from classic lattes to unique seasonal specials. Their skilled baristas ensure each cup is crafted to perfection.
Don’t forget to try their food options too. Lockwood offers a selection of fresh pastries and light bites that pair perfectly with your coffee. It’s an ideal spot for a quick breakfast or a relaxed afternoon snack.
The cafe’s welcoming vibe makes it a great place to meet friends or get some work done. You’ll find plenty of comfortable seating and a quiet atmosphere that’s perfect for catching up or focusing on your tasks.
Rating: 4.8 (342 reviews)
Location: 4625 Reliable St #3713, Ames, IA 50014
Website: Visit Website
5. Vinyl Cafe
Vinyl Cafe is a cozy spot in Ames that combines two great things – coffee and music. You’ll love the unique atmosphere created by the mix of vinyl records and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
The cafe offers a variety of coffee drinks to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a simple drip coffee or a fancy latte, you’ll find something to enjoy. They also serve tasty pastries and snacks to go with your drink.
While sipping your coffee, you can browse through their collection of vinyl records. It’s a great place to discover new music or revisit old favorites. The staff is friendly and always happy to chat about music or recommend a new album.
Vinyl Cafe is perfect for a relaxing afternoon or a casual meet-up with friends. The laid-back vibe makes it easy to spend hours there, enjoying good tunes and great coffee.
Rating: 4.8 (254 reviews)
Location: 303 Kellogg Ave, Ames, IA 50010
Contact: (515) 460-2116
6. Labyrinth Coffee
Labyrinth Coffee offers you a unique coffee experience in Ames, Iowa. This social enterprise is run by Collegiate Presbyterian Church, making it a not-for-profit venture.
You’ll find more than just great coffee here. Labyrinth focuses on eco-justice, so you can feel good about your drink choices. They aim to provide a perfect spot for you to enjoy your cup of joe.
The atmosphere at Labyrinth is welcoming and cozy. It’s an ideal place for you to relax, study, or catch up with friends. The staff is friendly and ready to help you choose the perfect brew.
When you visit Labyrinth, you’re supporting a local business that cares about the community and the environment. It’s a great way for you to enjoy quality coffee while making a positive impact.
Rating: 5 (37 reviews)
Location: 159 Sheldon Ave, Ames, IA 50014
Website: Visit Website
7. The Cafe
The Cafe is a charming spot that’s been a local favorite for over 20 years. You’ll love their commitment to using seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients in their dishes.
The farm-to-table experience here is truly special. You can taste the freshness in every bite, knowing that passionate people have carefully prepared your meal.
When you visit, you’ll feel right at home. The staff is known for their warm, friendly service. It’s like being welcomed into a neighbor’s kitchen.
Don’t forget to try their freshly baked bread. Each day brings different varieties, from ciabatta to sourdough. You can even pre-order your favorite loaf with 48 hours’ notice.
Rating: 4.7 (1900 reviews)
Location: 2616 Northridge Pkwy, Ames, IA 50010
Contact: (515) 292-0100
Website: Visit Website
8. Cabin Coffee Co.
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Cabin Coffee Co. in Ames. It’s the perfect spot to relax by the fireplace and enjoy a hot cup of joe.
If you’re in a hurry, their drive-through option is super convenient. You can grab your favorite drink without even leaving your car.
Cabin Coffee Co. is all about making you feel welcome. The staff is friendly and eager to serve you. They can’t wait to see you walk through their doors.
Whether you’re meeting friends or need a quiet place to work, this coffee shop has you covered. The warm, inviting space is ideal for catching up or getting things done.
Rating: 4.6 (303 reviews)
Location: 2721 E 13th St #101, Ames, IA 50010
Contact: (515) 233-3686
Website: Visit Website
9. Van Hemert’s Dutch Oven Bakery – Ames, IA
Step into a world of Dutch baking at Van Hemert’s Dutch Oven Bakery. This family-owned gem has been serving Ames since 1983, offering a wide range of freshly baked goods.
You’ll find traditional Dutch pastries like almond horns, Dutch letters, and filled windmills. Don’t miss their famous Dutch Apple Bread, loaded with apples, cinnamon, and walnuts, topped with maple icing.
Start your day with a breakfast sandwich on a homemade croissant or biscuit. For lunch, try their signature sandwiches on fresh-baked bread. Pair your meal with a drink from their Koffie Huis menu, featuring espresso, smoothies, and specialty coffees.
Need a cake for a special event? Van Hemert’s creates award-winning cakes for birthdays, weddings, and other celebrations. Their skilled bakers can bring your dream cake to life.
Rating: 4.7 (362 reviews)
Location: 219 Duff Ave, Ames, IA 50010
Contact: (515) 232-9244
Website: Visit Website)
10. Burgie’s Coffee | North Ames
Burgie’s Coffee in North Ames is a cozy spot where you can grab a great cup of joe and build connections with the community.
You’ll find a wide range of breakfast and lunch options made fresh to order.
The coffee shop takes pride in serving espresso and manual brew coffees from Windmill Coffee Roasters. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try their homemade bakery products.
Burgie’s is more than just a coffee shop. You can book the space for private parties or use their catering services for events like birthdays, weddings, or corporate gatherings.
The friendly staff at Burgie’s creates a welcoming atmosphere. You might even consider joining their team as a barista to learn more about coffee and become part of their work family.
Rating: 4.4 (138 reviews)
Location: 3701 Stange Rd, Ames, IA 50010
Contact: (515) 815-6442
Website: Visit Website
The Coffee Culture in Ames
Ames has a thriving coffee scene that blends classic and modern approaches. The city’s coffee shops host events that bring the community together over a shared love of great brews.
A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
You’ll find both old-school and cutting-edge coffee experiences in Ames. Many shops roast their own beans, giving you fresh flavors you can’t get anywhere else.
Some cafes stick to classic drinks, while others try out new trends.
Cold brew and pour-over methods are popular with coffee lovers who want to taste subtle flavors. But you can still get a good old drip coffee if that’s what you prefer.
Local roasters work hard to source high-quality beans from around the world. They often have direct relationships with coffee farmers. This means you get to enjoy ethically sourced coffee with unique taste profiles.
Local Coffee Events and Festivals
Ames loves to celebrate its coffee culture with fun events. You might catch a latte art competition where baristas show off their skills. Or you could join a coffee tasting to learn about different flavor notes.
Some shops host live music nights, turning into cozy venues for local artists. It’s a great way to enjoy some tunes with your favorite drink.
During the warmer months, you might stumble upon a coffee festival in a local park. These events bring together roasters, cafes, and coffee lovers. You can try samples, watch demos, and chat with other coffee fans.
Many cafes also offer classes where you can learn to brew better coffee at home. From espresso basics to advanced pour-over techniques, there’s always something new to learn about coffee in Ames.
Sustainable Practices in Local Coffee Shops
Ames coffee shops are making big strides in eco-friendly practices. You’ll find many places focusing on reducing waste and supporting local farmers. These efforts help create a more sustainable coffee culture in the community.
Eco-Friendly Packaging
When you visit coffee shops in Ames, you’ll notice a growing trend of eco-friendly packaging. Many cafes now use compostable cups, lids, and straws. Some even offer discounts if you bring your own reusable mug.
Look for shops that sell reusable items like travel mugs and metal straws. This helps cut down on single-use plastics. Some places have gone a step further by getting rid of plastic utensils entirely. Instead, they provide wooden or bamboo alternatives.
You might also see coffee grounds being given away for free. Customers can use these for composting or gardening at home. It’s a great way to reduce waste and help local gardens grow.
Supporting Local Farmers
Ames coffee shops are building strong ties with local farmers. This supports the local economy and reduces the carbon footprint of transporting beans long distances.
When you buy coffee, look for signs that show where the beans come from. Many shops proudly display info about their local suppliers. Some even host events where you can meet the farmers who grew your coffee.
You’ll find that locally-sourced milk, honey, and baked goods are becoming more common too. This means fresher ingredients for you and more support for Iowa farmers. Some cafes even grow their own herbs for teas and garnishes.
By choosing these shops, you’re helping to create a more sustainable food system in Ames.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ames has many great coffee shops to explore. Here are answers to some common questions about the local coffee scene.
What are the top-rated coffee shops visitors recommend in Ames, IA?
Morning Bell Coffee Roasters gets lots of praise from visitors. Cafe Diem is another popular spot many people enjoy. Burgie’s Coffee in South Ames also has many fans.
Where can I find a cozy coffee spot in downtown Ames?
Cafe Diem offers a cozy vibe right in the heart of downtown. The comfy seating and warm atmosphere make it perfect for relaxing with a drink. Vinyl Cafe is another snug option nearby.
Can you suggest a local coffee shop where I might find the best espresso in Ames?
Morning Bell Coffee Roasters is known for high-quality espresso drinks. Their skilled baristas and freshly roasted beans make for tasty shots. Lockwood Cafe also serves up great espresso.
Are there any unique coffee shop experiences in Ames, Iowa, such as book cafes or live music?
Vinyl Cafe offers a one-of-a-kind experience. You can browse records while sipping your coffee. They sometimes host live music too. Cafe Diem holds open mic nights and other events.
What are people saying on Reddit about the best coffee spots in Ames?
Reddit users often praise Morning Bell and Cafe Diem. Many like Burgie’s Coffee too. Some mention Vinyl Cafe as a cool spot to hang out and study.
Which Ames coffee shop offers the best environment for studying or working?
Cafe Diem is a top pick for studying. It has lots of seating and a quiet vibe.
Lockwood Cafe is another good option with a calm atmosphere and free WiFi.