Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has plenty to offer if you’re a coffee lover. The city boasts a variety of coffee shops, each with its unique charm and flavors. Whether you prefer a quiet spot to read or a lively atmosphere to meet friends, you’ll find the perfect place to enjoy your favorite brew.
You’ll discover cozy cafes with artisanal coffee, local bakeries, and friendly baristas ready to make your drink just as you like it.
Cedar Rapids’ coffee scene is vibrant and welcoming, making it easy for residents and visitors to find a new favorite spot.
1. Dash Coffee Roasters
Dash Coffee Roasters is a cozy spot in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where you can enjoy meticulously crafted coffee. The team at Dash believes in doing better every day and creating a strong community.
When you visit Dash, you can feel the group’s passion behind it. They want their work to mean something big and special, and their coffee reflects that dedication.
At Dash, you’ll find great coffee and a place to connect and grow with others. It’s a perfect place to relax and catch up with friends.
Rating: 4.7 (467 reviews)
Location: 120 3rd Ave SW Ste 2, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
Contact: (319) 423-9297
Website: Visit Website
2. Roasters Coffeehouse NewBo
Roasters Coffeehouse NewBo is a cozy spot in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. It’s perfect for anyone who loves coffee. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it ideal for relaxing or catching up with friends.
They offer a wide variety of coffee drinks and other beverages. Whether you enjoy a strong espresso or a frothy latte, there’s something for every coffee lover here. The staff is friendly and ready to help you choose the perfect drink.
Located in downtown Cedar Rapids, Roasters Coffeehouse NewBo is easy to access. It’s close to many local attractions, which makes it a convenient stop during your day out.
Rating: 5 (42 reviews)
Location: 1100 3rd St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
Website: Visit Website
3. Brewhemia
Brewhemia is a cozy spot in Cedar Rapids where you can enjoy coffee or wine. The place offers a variety of drinks, including coffee, espresso, beer, wine, and spirits. This makes it a great choice for starting your day or unwinding in the evening.
They serve food, too, so you can grab a bite while you sip on your drink. You can dine in, get carry out, or have your food delivered. This flexibility is perfect for any situation, whether you’re in a rush or want to relax.
The atmosphere at Brewhemia is inviting and friendly. It’s ideal for meeting friends, working on your laptop, or relaxing alone. The staff is welcoming, and the service is excellent. Give Brewhemia a try if you’re in Cedar Rapids and need of a good drink and some food.
Rating: 4.7 (671 reviews)
Location: 1202 3rd St SE #101, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
Contact: (319) 364-0802
Website: Visit Website
4. Café Saint Pio
Café Saint Pio is a cozy spot in Cedar Rapids where you can enjoy a good cup of coffee. The café has a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it a great place to relax or catch up with friends. It’s on 16th Ave SW.
The menu offers a variety of drinks and snacks. There’s something for everyone, whether you like espresso, lattes, or herbal teas. The staff are friendly and quick to help you find your perfect drink.
You can also enjoy a small selection of pastries and light bites with your coffee. The café is a good choice for a quick coffee break or a laid-back afternoon.
Rating: 4.8 (416 reviews)
Location: 99 16th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
Contact: (319) 200-1000
5. Lightworks Cafe
Lightworks Cafe is a cozy spot in Cedar Rapids where you can enjoy various coffee drinks. They serve products from Onyx, Monarch, Ruby Coffee, and Rishi Tea. The atmosphere is relaxed, perfect for catching up with friends or getting some work done.
Their menu includes a range of hot and iced coffee options. You can choose from traditional espresso-based drinks like macchiatos, cappuccinos, and lattes. If you want something special, try their Vietnamese coffee or a Cedar Rapids Fog.
Tea lovers will also find plenty to enjoy. Their selection includes chai lattes, matcha lattes, and various Rishi teas. They even offer Italian cream sodas and hot chocolate for a sweet treat.
Rating: 4.8 (291 reviews)
Location: 501 7th Ave SE Suite B, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
Contact: (319) 449-4046
Website: Visit Website
6. Kismet Coffee & Bloom
Kismet Coffee & Bloom is a delightful spot in Cedar Rapids. You can enjoy a fresh cup of coffee while surrounded by beautiful blooms. The atmosphere is cozy and perfect for relaxing and getting some work done. Visitors appreciate the friendly staff and the high quality of the products.
Located on 3rd Street, it’s easy to find and love. On your way out, you can grab your favorite brew and perhaps a floral arrangement. The decor is charming, making it an Instagram-worthy stop.
This shop also stands out for its excellent customer service. The team goes above and beyond to ensure you have a great experience. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Kismet Coffee & Bloom is worth a visit.
Rating: 5.0 (65 reviews)
Location: 1000 3rd St SE Suite 1, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
Contact: (319) 200-3218
Website: Visit Website
7. Uptown Coffee Company
Uptown Coffee Company is a cozy spot in Marion, Iowa. It’s a great place to relax with coffee or meet friends. The atmosphere is welcoming and the staff is friendly.
Their menu offers a variety of coffee drinks and pastries, from espresso to iced lattes. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.
This coffee shop is known for its quality and service. Visitors often praise the delicious coffee and the relaxing environment.
Rating: 4.7 (144 reviews)
Location: 760 11th St Suite A, Marion, IA 52302
Contact: (319) 200-6996
Website: Visit Website
8. Roasters Coffee House
Roasters Coffee House roasts every bean in-house to ensure maximum flavor and aroma. They source beans from around the globe, giving you a taste of the world with every sip. All beans are served within three weeks of roasting, so you always get a fresh cup.
Roasters has a strong community vibe, with many regulars and a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers. The staff is friendly and passionate about coffee, making each visit special. Whether you want to grab a quick drink or stay for a chat, you’ll feel right at home.
They supply coffee to numerous coffee houses, retail outlets, and businesses. If you have a meeting or a party, Roasters can provide freshly brewed coffee and baked goods. Their facility is also available for social gatherings, offering free Wi-Fi for guests.
Rating: 4.7 (269 reviews)
Location: 1059 N Center Point Rd, Hiawatha, IA 52233
Contact: (319) 393-6001
Website: Visit Website
9. Dunn Brothers Coffee
Dunn Brothers Coffee is a cozy spot in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. It’s a locally owned coffee shop known for its freshly roasted coffee. They use thoughtfully sourced beans to ensure the best taste. Whether you grab a coffee to go or decide to stay a while, you’ll feel welcomed.
If you’re in a hurry, you can use their drive-thru. Their comfortable atmosphere is ideal if you need a place to hang out. Plus, they offer various options like breakfast, lunch, and even a bakery. It’s a great place to relax or meet up with friends.
You can also join their rewards program for special offers and credits. Just download their app, and you can earn rewards with every purchase. It’s a convenient way to get more out of your coffee runs.
Rating: 4.6 (80 reviews)
Location: 1140 Blairs Ferry Rd NE Suite 400, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
Contact: (319) 200-3015
Website: Visit Website
10. Groundswell Cafe
When you visit Groundswell Cafe in Cedar Rapids, you support a great cause. This cafe helps reduce food insecurity by providing fresh, healthy meals for needy people. You can round up your bill or donate to help feed people who can’t afford to pay.
The cafe also offers a unique space to display art. You can host exhibitions in the Groundswell Gallery if you’re an artist. This is a great way to showcase your work and sell it with a small commission fee.
With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Groundswell Cafe is more than just a place to grab a bite. It’s a community hub where you can enjoy food and contribute to a meaningful mission.
Rating: 4.8 (143 reviews)
Location: 201 3rd Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
Contact: (319) 200-2791
Website: Visit Website
History and Culture of Coffee in Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids boasts a rich coffee culture, from its early beginnings to unique local traditions. You can find a variety of coffee shops with stories and flavors that reflect the community’s passion.
Origins of Coffee Culture in Iowa
Coffee culture in Iowa began to take shape in the early 20th century. With its industrial growth and expanding population, Cedar Rapids saw the opening of its first coffeehouses during this time. These early establishments were simple and focused on providing a quick caffeine fix to factory workers and residents.
By the mid-1900s, coffee shops had evolved into social hubs. They offered a place for people to gather, exchange ideas, and enjoy a break from their daily routines. As Cedar Rapids grew, so did its coffee culture, introducing a variety of brewing techniques and flavors.
Local Coffee Traditions
Cedar Rapids has many locally-owned coffee shops that emphasize community and quality. Places like Dash Coffee Roasters exemplify this tradition by roasting their beans and creating a welcoming atmosphere. Their story began in 2017, and they quickly became known for excellent coffee and community engagement.
Like Roasters Coffee House, you’ll also find coffee shops that celebrate global flavors. Roasters offers beans worldwide, letting you travel the globe one cup at a time. These local traditions make Cedar Rapids’ coffee scene vibrant and diverse, connecting you with different cultures and neighbors through every sip.
Cedar Rapids’ coffee culture blends its historical roots with modern practices, creating unique and meaningful experiences for coffee lovers.
Unique Coffee Experiences
In Cedar Rapids, coffee shops not only provide great coffee but also offer unique experiences that go beyond just a cup of joe. From seasonal drinks to community gatherings, there’s something special brewing in every corner of the city.
Seasonal Specialties
So do the menus at many Cedar Rapids coffee shops when the seasons change. You can look forward to pumpkin-spiced lattes in the fall and peppermint mochas in winter. These limited-time offerings often come with cozy spices and holiday flavors, making every visit festive.
Scooter’s Coffee, for example, serves Red Bull Infusions during the summer, adding a unique twist to your usual caffeine fix. Both locals and visitors eagerly await these special treats each year.
Kismet Coffee & Bloom is another hotspot that frequently updates its menu with fresh, seasonal ingredients. From floral-infused drinks in spring to hearty, warming blends in winter, they keep things exciting.
Coffee and Community Events
Cedar Rapids coffee shops are about more than beverages; they also play a significant role in fostering community. Many places host open mic nights, art shows, and book clubs, which offer a great way to meet new people and engage with local culture.
Brewhemia, for instance, often has live music sessions where you can enjoy coffee while listening to local artists. Similarly, Roasters Coffee House organizes coffee cupping sessions where you can learn about different coffee beans and brewing techniques.
Participating in these community events can make your coffee experience much richer. You don’t just sip a drink; you become part of a vibrant, connected community.
Check out the other cities’ coffee shops in Iowa we cover.
