Iowa City is a vibrant college town with a thriving coffee scene. You’ll find plenty of cozy spots to grab a cup of joe, study, or catch up with friends. From trendy cafes to traditional coffee houses, there’s something for every taste.
Iowa City’s best coffee shops offer tasty brews, friendly service, and inviting atmospheres. Many places roast their own beans and serve specialty drinks. You can also enjoy pastries, light meals, and sometimes even cocktails at these local favorites.
Whether you’re a student, resident, or visitor, exploring Iowa City’s coffee shops is a great way to experience the local culture.
1. Kindred Coffee
You’ll find a cozy and welcoming atmosphere at Kindred Coffee in Iowa City. This charming spot offers a variety of delicious coffee drinks to suit your taste.
Kindred Coffee takes pride in using high-quality ingredients. They source their dairy from Dan and Debbie’s Creamery, offering both whole and skim milk options. If you prefer plant-based alternatives, you can choose from oat or almond milk.
The coffee shop features a range of house-made syrups to customize your drink. You can add flavors like vanilla, honey, caramel, lavender, or dark chocolate mocha to your coffee. They also offer seasonal syrups for a unique twist.
You’ll appreciate the attention to detail and friendly service at Kindred Coffee. It’s a great place to relax, catch up with friends, or get some work done while enjoying a tasty beverage.
Rating: 4.8 (101 reviews)
Location: 287 N Linn St, Iowa City, IA 52245
Website: Visit Website
2. Press Coffee
Press Coffee is a cozy spot in Iowa City that’s perfect for your morning cup. They specialize in French Press coffee, so every brew is fresh and flavorful. You can choose from light or dark roasts, or ask for any roast on their menu.
If you’re in a hurry, use the drive-up window. For a quick bite, try their pastries. On weekends, you can enjoy Donutland Donuts with your coffee.
Press Coffee also offers espresso drinks, smoothies, and tea.
Want to skip the line? Order ahead using the Joe Coffee App. Press Coffee is open daily, starting early for your morning caffeine fix. They close at 6 PM, giving you plenty of time to grab an afternoon pick-me-up.
Parking can be tight, so consider biking or carpooling. For the latest news and updates, sign up for their Pressing Newsletter. Press Coffee is a local favorite that’s sure to become your go-to spot for a quality brew.
Rating: 4.8 (337 reviews)
Location: 1120 N Dodge St, Iowa City, IA 52245
Contact: (319) 887-1500
Website: Visit Website
3. The Encounter Cafe
The Encounter Cafe is a charming spot in Iowa City that will satisfy your cravings for tasty food and great coffee. You’ll find a cozy atmosphere perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet moment alone.
Their menu offers a variety of options to suit different tastes. You can indulge in delicious panini sandwiches, fresh salads, and comforting biscuits and gravy. Don’t forget to try their amazing pastries, which are baked in-house.
The cafe is known for its friendly service and welcoming vibe. You’ll feel right at home as soon as you step inside.
Keep in mind that the grill closes at 1:00 PM daily, so arrive early if you want to sample their full breakfast menu.
If you’re planning an event or just want to treat yourself, you can order bulk pastries from their bakery. The Encounter Cafe is a local favorite that combines great food, warm hospitality, and a relaxing environment.
Rating: 4.8 (754 reviews)
Location: 376 S Clinton St, Iowa City, IA 52240
Contact: (319) 519-2044
Website: Visit Website
4. Mammitas Coffee Food & Catering / Flowers By Jacqueline
Mammitas Coffee Food & Catering / Flowers By Jacqueline is a unique spot in Iowa City. You’ll find a mix of coffee, food, and flowers all in one place.
The coffee here is top-notch. You can enjoy a variety of drinks, from classic brews to specialty lattes. Their food menu offers tasty options for breakfast and lunch.
What sets Mammitas apart is its flower shop. You can grab a bouquet while sipping your coffee. It’s perfect for special occasions or just to brighten your day.
The shop has a warm, welcoming feel. You’ll love the friendly staff and cozy atmosphere. It’s a great spot to meet friends or get some work done.
Rating: 4.9 (222 reviews)
Location: 224 S Linn St, Iowa City, IA 52240
Contact: (319) 569-1067
5. Java House Coffee Roasters – Downtown
Java House has been a downtown Iowa City staple since 1994. They’re passionate about great coffee and roast all their beans in-house for the best taste.
You can enjoy their brews at the cozy downtown cafe or take some home. They offer a variety of popular blends, each carefully roasted to bring out unique flavors.
Beyond just serving coffee, Java House provides catering services for events. You can order sandwich trays, salads, pastries, and of course, coffee and tea for your next gathering.
If you’re a coffee enthusiast, check out their at-home brewing gear. This way, you can recreate that perfect Java House taste in your own kitchen.
Rating: 4.4 (657 reviews)
Location: 211 1/2 E Washington St, Iowa City, IA 52240
Contact: (319) 341-0012
Website: Visit Website
6. DAYDRINK
DAYDRINK is a unique coffee shop in Iowa City that puts sustainability at the forefront. You’ll love their use of glass jars instead of paper or plastic cups. This eco-friendly approach helps reduce waste and shows their commitment to the environment.
The coffee here is top-notch. DAYDRINK roasts their beans in-house, ensuring fresh and flavorful brews. They source their coffee ethically from small-scale farmers and cooperatives around the world. You can taste the quality in every sip.
Community is a big focus at DAYDRINK. The shop aims to make everyone feel welcome and connected. It’s a great spot to meet friends, work on projects, or simply enjoy a moment of calm. The friendly staff adds to the warm atmosphere.
If you love their coffee, you can take it home too. DAYDRINK offers subscriptions and wholesale options. Their co-founder Michael Beyne was even recognized internationally for his roasting skills. You’re in for a treat when you visit this local gem.
Rating: 4.9 (124 reviews)
Location: 518 Bowery St, Iowa City, IA 52240
Website: Visit Website
7. Coffee Emporium
Coffee Emporium is a cozy spot in Iowa City that’s perfect for coffee lovers. You’ll find a warm welcome and friendly staff ready to serve you.
The coffee here is top-notch, with a medium roast that customers rave about. If you’re hungry, try their delicious chocolate chip cookies or other tasty baked goods.
Coffee Emporium offers more than just great drinks. You can also enjoy soups, salads, and sandwiches. It’s a great place to relax, socialize, or get some work done.
They’ve been serving the community for over 18 years. With multiple locations in the area, you’re never far from your next cup of Coffee Emporium goodness.
Rating: 4.4 (408 reviews)
Location: 301 E Market St, Iowa City, IA 52245
Contact: (319) 338-5382
Website: Visit Website
8. fix! Coffee
You’ll find fix! Coffee tucked away in a cozy spot on East College Street. This charming cafe offers a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for sipping your favorite brew.
The menu features classic coffee drinks like cappuccinos, cortados, and espressos. If you’re in the mood for something different, try their homemade lemonade or hot chocolate.
Prices are reasonable, with most drinks ranging from $2.83 to $4.01. The friendly staff takes pride in crafting each beverage to perfection, ensuring you get a great cup every time.
Fix! Coffee is an ideal place to catch up with friends or get some work done. The calm environment and delicious drinks make it a popular spot among locals and visitors alike.
Rating: 4.9 (75 reviews)
Location: 404 E College St Suite 202, Iowa City, IA 52240
Contact: (319) 519-6445
Website: Visit Website)
9. Prairie Lights Books and Cafe
Prairie Lights Books and Cafe is a cozy spot that combines the best of both worlds – books and coffee. You’ll find yourself surrounded by shelves filled with literary treasures while sipping on a delicious cup of joe.
The cafe offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for curling up with a good book or meeting friends for a chat.
The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the scent of new books, creating a unique and comforting environment.
Don’t miss their selection of pastries and snacks to go with your coffee. They’re the perfect accompaniment as you browse the latest bestsellers or discover a hidden gem among the stacks.
Prairie Lights is more than just a coffee shop – it’s a cultural hub. You might catch a reading by a visiting author or stumble upon a lively book discussion group while enjoying your latte.
Rating: 4.7 (545 reviews)
Location: 15 S Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA 52240
Contact: (319) 337-2681
Website: Visit Website
10. Java House Coffee Roasters – First Ave
Java House Coffee Roasters has been brewing great coffee since 1994. You’ll love their passion for providing top-notch beans to cafes and wholesale partners in the area.
All their coffee is roasted in-house, giving you the best flavor in every cup. You can stop by their First Ave location to enjoy freshly brewed coffee or pick up some beans to make at home.
Java House offers a range of options beyond just coffee. You can grab sandwich trays, salads, pastries, and tea for catering events. They even have merchandise available if you want to show your love for this local favorite.
For coffee enthusiasts, Java House sells specialty brewing gear. This lets you recreate their amazing taste in your own kitchen.
Rating: 4.5 (285 reviews)
Location: 1575 S 1st Ave, Iowa City, IA 52240
Contact: (319) 248-2074
Website: Visit Website
The Iowa City Coffee Scene
Iowa City has a thriving coffee culture with many unique shops and cafes. You’ll find a mix of cozy neighborhood spots and trendy downtown locations offering quality brews and welcoming atmospheres.
History of Coffee Culture in Iowa City
Coffee has been part of Iowa City life for decades. In the 1960s and 70s, small cafes popped up near the University of Iowa campus. These became popular hangouts for students and professors.
The 1990s saw a boom in local roasters and specialty coffee shops. Places like The Java House opened, bringing gourmet coffee drinks to town.
In recent years, the scene has grown even more. New shops focus on sustainably sourced beans and unique brewing methods. Many partner with local bakeries and food producers.
Today, you can find coffee shops on nearly every corner in Iowa City. From quick grab-and-go spots to relaxed cafes for studying or meeting friends, there’s something for everyone.
Unique Features of Coffee Shops in Iowa City
Iowa City coffee shops stand out in several ways. Many source beans from local roasters like Dash Coffee Roasters in Cedar Rapids. This gives you access to super fresh, high-quality coffee.
You’ll often find study-friendly setups with free WiFi and plenty of outlets. Shops like The High Ground Cafe and Prairie Lights Books offer cozy nooks perfect for working or reading.
Some cafes double as community spaces. Sidekick Coffee & Books hosts storytimes for kids. The Encounter Cafe puts on open mic nights and art shows.
Food options go beyond basic pastries. Press Coffee serves up tasty smoothies and health-focused snacks. Wild Culture offers kombucha on tap alongside their coffee menu.
Many shops showcase local art or sell products from area makers. This gives you a chance to support multiple small businesses in one visit.
Local Coffee Trends
Iowa City’s coffee scene is growing more eco-conscious and diverse. You’ll find shops focusing on sustainability and offering unique blends from around the world.
Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing
Many Iowa City coffee shops now prioritize ethical sourcing. You’ll see more fair trade and direct trade options on menus. Some cafes partner with local farms for milk and pastries.
Reusable cup programs are becoming popular. Bring your own mug and get a discount at places like Press Coffee. Some shops have switched to compostable cups and straws.
You might notice more plant-based milk choices too. Oat milk lattes are a hit at spots like Wild Culture and fix!
Popular Coffee Varieties and Blends
Single-origin coffees are gaining fans in Iowa City. You can try beans from Ethiopia, Colombia, and other coffee-growing regions.
Cold brew is huge, especially in summer. Many shops make their own in-house versions.
Flavored lattes remain popular. Seasonal specials like pumpkin spice in fall are crowd-pleasers. But you’ll also find unique flavors like lavender honey at cafes like Sidekick Coffee & Books.
Pour-over coffee is trendy for those who want a precise brew. The Java House offers this method for their specialty beans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Iowa City has many great coffee spots for all tastes. From cozy cafes to specialty roasters, you’ll find options for every coffee lover. Here are answers to some common questions about Iowa City’s coffee scene.
What are the top-rated coffee spots in Iowa City for a cozy ambience?
Kindred Coffee and The Encounter Cafe offer warm, inviting spaces. You’ll feel right at home with their comfy seating and soft lighting. These spots are perfect for relaxing with a good book or catching up with friends.
Which coffee shops are a must-visit for coffee connoisseurs in Iowa City?
Press Coffee and Java House Coffee Roasters – Downtown are top picks for serious coffee fans. They source high-quality beans and use expert brewing methods. You’ll taste the difference in every sip at these local favorites.
Can you recommend some Iowa City coffee shops with the best espresso?
For a great espresso, try Mammitas Coffee Food & Catering or Press Coffee. Their baristas are skilled at pulling the perfect shot. You’ll enjoy rich, smooth espresso drinks at these spots.
Where can I find specialty coffee blends in Iowa City?
Java House Coffee Roasters – Downtown and Press Coffee offer unique blends. You can buy beans to brew at home or try them in-store. These shops often have seasonal and limited-edition roasts to explore.
Are there any unique themed coffee shops in Iowa City?
The Encounter Cafe has a cozy, community-focused vibe. Kindred Coffee offers a modern, minimalist space. Each shop has its own special feel. You’ll find a spot that matches your style and mood.
What are the local favorite coffee shops in Iowa City for students to study at?
Students in Iowa City love Press Coffee and Java House Coffee Roasters – Downtown. These spots offer free Wi-Fi and plenty of seating. At these shops, you’ll find a quiet spot to focus and fuel up on caffeine.