This was our hardest list to compile yet because of just how many amazing coffee shops we have in the Des Moines area. Whether you love coffee for the energy, or enjoy exploring it as a hobby, check out these shops to get your fix. (In no particular order.)
Last Updated: September 2025
Disclaimer: Opening and closing hours subject to change. Please double check with all businesses’ latest listed hours.
Newly Added
Lightbrite Coffee Roasters
- 1895 SE Grimes Blvd Suite 104, Grimes, IA 50111
- Monday – Saturday, 7 a.m – 2 p.m.
Lightbrite is a quaint, locally owned coffee shop with rotating seasonal menus in addition to classic standbys. Their vanilla flavored matcha is one of our favorites, with just the right ratios and consistency. Poptarts and other treats from Jess Deserts are regularly available for purchase.
Sweetdude Coffee & Cafe
- 9763 University Ave, Clive, IA 50325
- Monday – Thursday, 8:30 – 4 p.m. / Friday & Saturday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. / Sunday, 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Locally owned cozy cafe located in Indian Hills Center, near Valley West Mall. Sweetdude not only serves coffee, but also delicious crepes, waffles, and Choux pastries! Check out their seasonal specials and the popular Hojicha Latte.
Favorite Coffee Shops
Daisy Chain Coffee
- 505 E. Grand Avenue #104, Des Moines, IA
- Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. & Saturday – Sunday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Nestled between Raygun and Purveyor in the East Village, Daisy Chain crafts specialty coffee with local flavor – including drinks featuring the owner’s local honey. Plus, it’s dog friendly!
Horizon Line Coffee
- 1417 Walnut Street, Des Moines, IA 50309
- Tuesday – Sunday, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Started by two friends passionate about good coffee, Horizon Line offers seasonal menus and a reusable glass program demonstrating their focus on sustainability. It’s a great space to work or hang out for a few hours.
The Slow Down Coffee Co.
- 3613 6th Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50313
- Monday – Friday, 6:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. / Saturday & Sunday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
A north-side favorite in Highland Park. The Slow Down sources beans from Windmill Coffee (Ames), offers pastries from Dust Bowl Bakery, hosts a book club, and sells local handmade goods.
Chain & Spoke
- 515 28th St Unit 102, Des Moines, IA 50312
- Monday – Friday, 8 – 5 p.m. / Saturday & Sunday, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
This “coffee and cyclery” shop has beautiful aesthetics for a mid-week meeting or a Saturday hang. The space is bright and airy and the Maple Cinnamon Latte is darn good.
Northern Vessel
- 1201 Keosauqua Way, Des Moines, IA 50309
- Monday – Friday, 6 a.m. – 3 p.m. / Saturday & Sunday, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Northern Vessel quickly became one of Des Moines most popular coffee shops! We recommend the Oat Milk Cold Brew Latte or signature Cheerios latte. Want to be able to grab a cold brew straight from your fridge? You can buy it by the bottle to make sure you never run out!
Mars Cafe
- 2318 University Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50311
- Monday – Friday, 6 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Saturday – Sunday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Serving up the best coffee in the galaxy, Mars Cafe not only makes coffee that’s out of this world but also has a really good selection of snacks. They serve local food from other small businesses and is a great stop in the Drake Neighborhood. We recommend the Sputnik to get you through the day!
Check out “The Galaxy’s Best Coffee”
Grounds for Celebration
- Beaverdale Place, 2709 Beaver Ave, Des Moines, IA 50310
- Monday – Friday, 6:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. / Saturday 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. / Sunday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- West Des Moines location closed weekends.
A local institution with ample space, free Wi-Fi, and lunch options — plus the aroma of fresh roasting. We have a soft spot for the Beaverdale location.
Hobnob Coffee and Wine Bar
- Hotel Fort Des Moines, 1000 Walnut St, Des Moines, IA 50309
- Coffee Shop Hours: Daily, 6 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Wine Bar Hours: Wednesday – Friday, 5 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Located inside the recently restored Hotel Fort Des Moines, Hobnob blends European-inspired charm and approachable downtown elegance. A lovely spot to romanticize work or study time while enjoying great coffee.
Zanzibar’s Coffee Adventure
- 2723 Ingersoll Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50312
- Monday – Saturday 6:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. / Sunday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Roasting small-batch coffee for over 28 years, Zanzibar’s is perfect for a morning grab-and-go or a relaxing treat while you catch up with friends.
The Coffeesmith
- 770 SE Alice’s Rd, Waukee, IA 5026
- CLOSED SUNDAY / Open Monday – Friday 6 a.m. – 6 p.m. / Saturday 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
An independent coffee shop in Waukee founded by a native Iowan couple. The Coffeesmith focuses on handcrafted espresso, community, and ample space for studying or working.
Mayalu Coffee
- 4226 Fleur Dr, Des Moines, IA 50321
- Monday – Saturday, 6 a.m. – 7 p.m. / Sunday 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Opened in 2023 near the airport, Mayalu features a drive-thru, locally roasted coffee, and a commitment to community. “Mayalu” means “beloved” in Nepali — and the owners aim to make the shop feel welcoming and connected.
What we’re keeping an eye on…
Current Coffee DSM launched onto the Des Moines scene at Beaverdale Farmer’s Market and is now available at Thistle’s Summit. Give them a follow for what looks like absolutely delicious coffee drinks.
Looking for even more guides? Check out our full “drink” category of guides below.
