Three Top Independent Coffee Shops in the Des Moines Metro Area

Stop in for a Cup of Great Coffee at These Local Shops

JUNEANN REED
Take time to visit three of the top independent coffee shops in the Des Moines metro area. Upon walking in the door, you will feel welcome and comfortable. Besides that, the coffee and other offerings are wonderful.

1. Des Moines' own - Java Joe's CoffeeHouse

Java Joe's CoffeeHouse promotes local and regional music by providing live entertainment to Des Moines. There is entertainment MOST Saturday nights, and, often other nights, including their ongoing monthly events.

Second Tuesday - Irish Jam
Third Tuesday - Poetry Slam
First Sunday - Jazz Jam
Third Sunday - Jazz Big Band

They welcome new faces to join in the fun.

Java Joe's is located at 214 4th Street in downtown Des Moines. Booking information contact is Keith West at 515-564-0786.

Java Joe's offers a coffee of the month, special coffee beans and information on how to make great coffee. You will find great coffee, food and good times at Java Joe's CoffeeHouse. Prices at Java Joe's are regular Des Moines area coffee charges. Anytime you visit Java Joe's you'll be welcomed and will feel comfortable. Java Joe's has been a great downtown hangout for years. When politicians come into Iowa for the Iowa caucus and other major news events, you'll find them and the media hanging out out Java Joe's.

2. Rich's Brew - Johnston 5800 Merle Hay Road

Located just a couple minutes north of Des Moines on Merle Hay Road in Johnston, is Rich's Brew. Not only does Rich serve you the best coffee in the area, but his morning cinnamon rolls are VERY yummy. You must try one. He also offers a small luncheon menu for your convenience.

Prices are moderate Des Moines fare. Rich's Brew is a great place to meet your friends for a morning cup of coffee or for a treat later in the day. Rich is open every day - including Sunday morning for your enjoyment.

Different kinds of bulk coffee are available for your purchase.

The Christmas mix is now available year around because coffee drinkers kept requesting it far past the Christmas season. This special treat would make a great gift to give one of your coffee drinking friends.

Take time to go visit Rich and everyone connected with his coffee shop. It will be well worth your while and you'll love knowing about this special little spot in the Des Moines area. To reach Rich call 515-331-2535.

3. Waveland Coffee Shop

The Waveland Coffee Shop, located at 4708 University in Des Moines is sort of a tacky, cafe around the corner, type of coffee shop. It is rated number four of 376 restaurants in Des Moines. Everyone locally knows about their cheesy breakfast hash browns served with that delicious cup of strong, steaming hot coffee.

Along with a great cup of coffee of your choice, you can have the THE BEST greasy spoon type breakfast. Those hash browns can't be beat and they say the biscuits and gravy are just like mom's.

The servers are friendly and you immediately join the crowd of guests who look happy and relaxed.

Don't expect the decor at the Waveland Coffee Shop in Des Moines to be something you remember. But you will remember and want to return for the great coffee, service and down home type meals.

Prices are easily affordable for most and you feel like you get lots of food for the money.

Everyone from college kids to grandma and grandpa feel very much at home, have a good time and want to come back again.

The large crowds may cause your food party to have some wait time. Plan on it and enjoy the time you spend with each other. You'll be glad you did. Phone ahead if you have questions - 515-279-4341.

I've enjoyed all three of these local coffee shop type places. The Waveland is great for a family type group. After getting my nails done at the nail shop next door, I've paid Rich several visits for a great finish to a relaxing morning. Java Joe's is just great evening entertainment where you'll find the people just as fun as the actual entertainment offered that evening.

Each of these local Des Moines coffee shops are one of a kind. Their uniqueness of a variety of different offerings make them special places to visit. Quite likely they could become your local neighborhood hang-out type of place. Each business is also involved in helping the Des Moines community.

Come, enjoy some spectacular coffee and treats in Des Moines!

Published by JUNEANN REED

Juneann, now retired, worked as a professional non-profit fund raiser for 16 years. She also worked in an adult care center directing activities for seniors and during her husband's accute illness was presi...  View profile

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Some go to a favorite coffee shop just for a great coffee treat. Most local coffee shops offer you much more than a great cup of coffee. They welcome you and make you feel very much at home.

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