The Cafe — Restaurant in Ames

6 Stars. Nestled in the heart of Ames is The Café, a local gem where the ambiance is as inviting as the flavors are exhilarating. Upon entering, one is greeted by the timeless charm of its brick walls and understated décor, promising an experience rooted in simplicity and quality.

Our lunch at The Café was nothing short of remarkable. We started with a robust, perfectly seared cheeseburger, its charred exterior giving way to juicy tenderness, balanced with crisp lettuce and a ripe tomato, all sandwiched between a freshly baked bun. The burger was accompanied by a side of house-made chips, delivering a satisfying crunch with each bite.

Then, there was the beautifully crafted chicken sandwich, bursting with flavor, nestled in a pillowy bun, and served alongside a zesty side salad that perfectly complemented the rich spices of the chicken. The side of corn salad offered a fresh, sweet contrast that was both refreshing and palate-cleansing.

Lastly, the quintessentially comforting mac and cheese was a standout, with a top layer gratinated to golden perfection, revealing a molten heart of creamy pasta underneath. Paired with a side of mixed greens, the dish achieved a balance between indulgence and freshness.

In all, The Café in Ames delivers an outstanding culinary experience, where each dish is a testament to their commitment to fresh ingredients and culinary craft. This is a must-visit spot for anyone seeking the heart and soul of local cooking. PROTIP: lots of parking in back. Use the door and go...

We ordered breakfast for the Farm Fresh Eggs and the Denver Omlette. The Omlette was delicious, everything else was as follows..... Farm fresh eggs came flat and rubbery, and somehow was a tortilla omlette of some sort. I had asked for them to be cooked on both sides, however, I just mean I didn't want one side of an egg raw. The pastor's with onion and peppers served with the breakfast was far under flavored, incredibly oily, and the veggies had been cooked so long they were soggy with no fresh flavor. The bacon was burnt although still edible. However, I personally didn't finish it. It was dry like beef jerky with only a taste of abundant pepper. The grapes were warm because they were packed inside the hot dish with the rest of the food. I was a little sad to see this. The orange juice can't be freshly made or real, it clearly looks and tastes like sunny D, for whatever expensive price we paid for that. I personally avoid Sunny D, because it's just flat and not an orange juice flavor.

We did order two bakery items A piece of cake and the butterscotch creme. These were wonderfully delicious and creamy.

When the total for all this was about 50-60$, and most of it wasn't finished but the Omlette and two desserts. It becomes disappointing regardless of the nice customer service received at the counter. My husband was so upset he demanded a review be written, especially after his coffee wasn't as good as what he...

I had lunch here with a friend the other day and it was very enjoyable. First off the aroma is always exquisite throughout the restaurant. Second, we were seated immediately and the table and booths were clean and tidy. After a minute wait we were served our water, which was deliver in an old fashioned style bottle. Third, our waitress was friendly, professional, and prompt. Taking our order for drinks and apps accurately without questions. After a couple minutes she returned with our drinks. I had an Ice Tea that was very well brewed. My date enjoyed a steamed chai. She offered me a sip and that too was very tasty. We then placed our order, my accomplice having the Tostada's and myself the Somerset Salad. One small mistake that our waitress made was to not offer us the specials, however the smell of this restaurant is so rich and flavorful that it was a joy to walk to the front and see the specials signage. Fourth, our food came quickly, accurately, and with presentation that I feel would make Rose's mother approve.(That was saying something considering Miss DeWitt's high standards.) We were offered dessert but passed and the check was presented. Overall this was a great lunch experience and lastly I would recommend this place to anyone...