A Guide to Ames Coffee Shops
Burgie’s Coffee
Occupying a gorgeous white brick building on the breezy corner of Stange and Bloomington, Burgie’s is one of the most aesthetically gifted coffee shops in Ames, by way of its warm earthy tones set against minimalistic walls, chic furnishings, natural sunlight, and amenities for a productive cafe day. In addition to an espresso bar and manual brew coffees, the menu has a wide variety of made-to-order breakfast and lunch options.
Morning Bell Coffee Roasters
If you truly love and appreciate the art of java, search no further, as Morning Bell is passionate about meticulously roasting gourmet coffee beans in-house and concocting delectable espresso-based drinks like the austin, a real ginger molasses latte with a touch of raw sugar. Iowa’s first worker-owned cooperative also offers guests a lounge area featuring works of art, hints of greenery, a honeycomb tile-wrapped front counter, an elegant tin ceiling, communal workbenches, and views of the happenings on Main Street.
Lockwood Cafe
Breathing new life into an industrial building just off North Dakota Avenue, Lockwood has an artsy setting dappled with fashionable furnishings, vibrant plants, cozy nooks and corners, see-through garage doors, creative expressions, and accommodations for remote work. The picturesque decor serves as an accomplice to thoughtfully crafted, rewardingly delicious coffee beverages, sweet and savory crepes, and scrumptious desserts (vegan options available).
Cafe Diem
Near and dear to the heart of downtown, Cafe Diem serves customers soul-stirring joe amidst swanky digs underscored by exposed brick walls, wooden floorboards, red accents, and an abundance of comfy booths. The attention to detail that has gone into designing this gem with a delightful balance of charm and utility makes it an easy go-to for daytime meetings with colleagues, long overdue coffee dates, or solo study sessions.
Stomping Grounds Cafe
Whether you’d like to sink into a seat and appreciate the company of loved ones over a steamy cup of joe, set up in a cozy corner and power through a late-night study session, or enjoy breakfast on the sun-soaked patio as the hustle and bustle of Campustown passes on by, whatever the case may be, Stomping Grounds has got you covered.
Daytime Diner
To those Instagram connoisseurs of cuteness ever on the prowl for all things pretty, this recent addition to the ever-budding index of Ames coffee shops showcases bubbly diner vibes accentuated by retro tones, minimalistic white walls, cozy booths, lush verdure, trendy light fixtures, and photogenic brunch fare. Daytime Diner’s artisan java is sure to jumpstart your morning, and should a more celebratory occasion be at hand, feel free to order up a round of mimosas or refreshing cocktails.
Vinyl Cafe
Located inside a beautiful brick building just off Main Street, Vinyl Cafe is an intimately sized hangout with several seating arrangements and thousands of vinyl records for sale, there’s even a listening booth for sampling them! Aside from sweet tunes ranging from rock to blues to jazz to country, they maintain a tempting selection of coffee beverages, teas, smoothies, fresh pastries, and quick bites like pastries and breakfast tacos.
Cafe Milo
Cafe Milo carries coffees roasted weekly by Friedrich’s in Des Moines, as well as made-to-order breakfast fare, scrumptious pastries, and specialty drinks like the cinnamon and honey-sweetened Miel and hazelnut hinted Alpine Mocha. The space’s homey feel, couches, armchairs, and ample tabletops make it an inviting getaway on the outer edge of town.
Mother’s Pub and Coffee
A short walk from Iowa State University’s campus, Mother’s Pub isn’t your typical coffee shop and could definitely be considered more of a pub, nonetheless, it has earned a reputation for serving exceptional coffee. Whether you are in dire need of a mid-day pick-me-up between classes, would like to experience a live music performance on the weekend, or are excited about catching a sports game while knocking back brewskies with the boys, this local staple has a little something for every occasion.
Cabin Coffee Co.
From vibrant flavor and deep aroma to antioxidant-packed benefits and an energy boost, freshly roasted beans elevate regular coffee to exceptional coffee, that’s why Cabin Coffee Co. roasts their own beans in-house. The warm and familiar western ambiance has crafty wooden furnishings, a crackling armchair-flanked fireplace, and even a meeting room.
Scooter’s Coffee
Scooter’s Coffee is a drive-thru franchise that has been serving world-class coffee for more than 20 years. The menu features an array of specialty espresso beverages, single-origin coffee, fruit smoothies, Red Bull Infusions, Cold Brew, baked-from-scratch pastries, and savory breakfast options ranging from breakfast burritos to hot sandwiches. The Caramelicious is their signature drink, you can’t go wrong with ordering this rich, velvety, caramel treat.
This rapidly blossoming java business started out in 1998 as a single drive-thru coffeehouse in Bellevue, Nebraska clinging to the following principles: find a great location and stay committed to high-quality drinks, speed of service, and a BIG smile. Since those humble beginnings, Scooter’s has grown to over 300 locations in 21 states across the nation.
If you enjoyed this guide to the best coffee shops in Ames, check out our list of the Top 10 Coffee Shops in Cedar Rapids!
I do not claim to own any of the images used in this article, unless otherwise noted, they are sourced from each business’s Facebook page.
