3 Best Cafe in Des Moines, IA

"Smokey Row Coffee Co. is a family-run café that serves fresh coffee, homemade breakfasts, and diner-style meals in a stylish, comfortable setting. The cafe feels like the kind of food your grandma made: warm, simple, and satisfying. They offer classic American breakfast and lunch dishes, yummy pastries, and even ice cream. The place is friendly, bright, and welcoming, with staff who are happy to help. Kids especially love the Ham and Cheese, Gooey Grilled Cheese, and Mac and Cheese. You can eat there or take your food to go. You’ll find Smokey Row Coffee in Pleasantville, Pella, and Oskaloosa, too. Gift cards are available for your loved ones. Their Grilled Chicken Sandwich is a succulent grilled chicken breast with Miracle Whip and fresh lettuce, served on a soft bun. They provide free Wi-Fi, outdoor seating, and free parking.

"Waveland Cafe aims to serve tasty, homemade-style food in a warm, welcoming place. They offer friendly service, big portions, and consistent quality, hoping you’ll feel right at home. The staff treats you like family, serves you quickly, and makes sure you enjoy your meal. Everything is made fresh when you order, including soups, sauces, and daily specials, all based on recipes from family, friends, and loyal customers. Their popular dishes include Waveland’s Best Skillet and Corned Beef Hash. You can surprise your loved ones with their gift cards. They have two locations in Iowa and are kid-friendly, making it a great spot for the whole family. Their Chicken Melt features crispy breaded chicken tenders, crispy bacon, Swiss cheese, and fresh tomatoes, all served on warm grilled sourdough bread.

"PerKup Cafe is a family-run café that serves classic American breakfast and lunch, along with fresh pastries. Their goal is to serve real, homemade breakfast just like the kind you remember from Grandma’s kitchen. They put care and effort into everything they make, even their homemade jam, which you can add to your toast for just 50 cents. PerKup Cafe wants every visit to be a great experience. PerKup Cafe is also recommended for vegetarians. Their popular picks include the Pecan Chicken Salad, Turkey Cranberry, and Ham & Provolone sandwiches. Their Patty Melt features an all-beef patty with sautéed onions, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, served on grilled marble rye bread. Gift cards and in-store pickup are also available.