The Slow Down Coffee Co. — Restaurant in Des Moines

I live in Ankeny and work downtown so this is a perfect spot to stop on my way to work. Street parking and spots alongside the building are usually open. There is construction across the street and the busy intersection nearby makes it a little more hectic, so just be wary when crossing the street!

I snagged a spot in the window to relax a while before work. Mornings are busy! The staff is incredibly friendly. I tried an almond croissant and OMG, they slice it open and put almond paste ALL OVER INSIDE. DROOL. It wasn’t dry at all. Amazing. Happiness.

I also visited another time and had been wanting a jade plant for my home, and guess what? They also sell plants! They work with other local businesses and artists to collaborate and support each other, which I LOVE. The plants are healthy, displayed nicely, and are reasonably priced.

They also once invited a Des Moines based games group called The Rook Room to host a pop-up last winter and I bought a delightfully difficult puzzle as a Christmas present for my roommate. It was art from a local artist and the puzzle was made locally too. What a fun way to support local!

And lastly, I should probably mention the coffee. I like Americanos, and I think they do a fine job on those (water first, shots on top!), however, the only wish I have is for a larger size than 16 oz. I can down a 20 oz. like no one’s business, so I’m a little disappointed to have to end my morning coffee consumption 4 oz. earlier. It has left me wanting on more than one occasion. But besides that one baby qualm, that’s really it. This is a terrific local business in a historic location owned by two hardworking, caring, and amazing business owners Drew and Kara Kelso.

Edit: they added a 20 oz. option now! YAY!!!!!! Thanks for hearing...

This was my favorite coffee shop on our driving trip from the Kansas City metro to Minneapolis and back. Des Moines, IA is about halfway between so we searched for the coffee shops with the best ratings. This was our stop on our way home and we were not disappointed. The shop is very inviting and had an interesting vibe that I couldn't pinpoint. It's kind of a flashback to hippie/flower power days (I'm aging myself here - I was little :) ), but not really hippie either. Our barista was the owner, Drew. He is very friendly and engaging. I noticed it as I talked to him, but also as I observed his interaction with customers after us. He is attentive and very present with each customer. I told Drew that I really like the name of their shop because it makes me think "relax". He told me the story of the name, the reason for the shop, and how he and his wife came upon the space. I'll let him tell you the story so you can enjoy conversation with him yourself. There is quite a bit of varied seating inside and a couple of cute wooden table and chair sets outside. I ordered a mocha and my husband ordered an Americano. I really enjoyed my mocha. I could actually taste the espresso and it was smooth. He did a great job pulling the shots. My husband said over and over how much he enjoyed his Americano. The only one I believe he's raved about that much was from Oddly Correct in Kansas City, MO. We each had an oatmeal cream pie made by a local company, Thistle's Summit. They were large like the ones I used to get from Little Debbie. They were SO GOOD! This was such an awesome and relaxing visit to a coffee shop to break up our drive. Great memory. It allowed us to enjoy the journey, not just focus on the destination. We look forward to...

I am absolutely in love with this sweet little neighborhood charmer. I LOVE their drip coffee, and their specialty drinks are really fun and different from others. I really love the lavender lemonade during the warmer months, and the Bourbon/Carmel Smoke flavor they offer in the colder months.

The atmosphere in this coffee shop is so casual and welcoming. I love walking in and running into people I know from book club, or the neighborhood. Drew and Kara have really cultivated a space that completely lives up to the name - The Slow Down. The inclusion that is felt in this space is off the charts. You instantly get a feel that ALL ARE WELCOME. There is always new and interesting local art on the walls, sometimes from local schools, and the community board in the back always keeps you up to date on what is happening around town.

Basically, this is my fave place to enjoy a drink, meet a friend, have a chat, read, or do some work. The Northeast side is so lucky we have this beautiful space to enjoy- with delicious...