- Northern Vessel is a coffee shop on Keo Way in downtown Des Moines. NV is a treasure in this city. Whenever I go in to get my usual Spanish Latte, I am always greeted with a smile or “Hey, Mel”… I am not sure if that is a good or bad thing that we are now on a first-name basis. Northern Vessel is a go-to coffee shop when I need to give a recommendation or take someone to a fun, vibrant spot where we can either stay and hang around or get a quick cup of joe and head out. Northern Vessel is always open to feedback and looking for ways to improve. However, I am grateful for their constant pursuit to connect with their customers and produce excellent coffee.
- Twisted Bean is a coffee shop in Urbandale I, the center of the Merle Hay auto mile. This coffee shop is spacious and a perfect place to grind out some work. There are many seating options for individuals and groups. They make fantastic coffee, energizers, tea, and breakfast favorites. I drive 17 minutes out of my way to get an Iced White Mocha from Twisted Bean.
- Smokey Row is a local chain coffee shop with anything you could ever want on its menu, from lunch to soda fountain drinks, pastries, coffee, and ice cream. Anyone can be happy and find something to enjoy at Smokey Row. This shop has various locations in the Greater Des Moines area. My favorite would be the one-off MLK because it is so close to Drake and is convenient for my friends and me to study or work on projects. They have excellent coffee, but when I go there, I can never get one thing. I often get a drink and a snack, perfect for long study sessions.
- Another great coffee shop right off campus is Mars Café. The one on University Ave is a frequent stop between classes when I have a few minutes to spare. They have excellent coffee, fun plants, and paintings to create an artistic atmosphere. They have big tables so you can spread your stuff alone or have many people at one table to chat. The location is so convenient, and they have so many options.
If you visit Des Moines or live in Des Moines, I encourage you to stop at these beautiful places. Each is unique and offers something new. As a caffeine addict and coffee lover, these places all have my vote for the best places in Des Moines.
For more information on who I am or other things I do and love, visit meldygert.com
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