Public House 421 — Restaurant in Slater

This little coffee shop is truly something special—absolutely worth the 25-minute drive from our home every single time. From the moment you walk through the door, you feel like family. The owners are some of the most down-to-earth, genuine, servant-hearted people our family has ever met. Them as well as their team do not just hand you a cup of coffee—they take the time to connect, encourage, and make you feel seen.

The atmosphere is captivating and cozy, the kind of place where you can breathe deeper, slow down, and actually enjoy being present. It’s not just a coffee shop—it’s a gathering place where community is cultivated and friendships are born. You can feel the love and intention in every detail, from the way they welcome you to the cozy, inviting space they’ve created.

And the coffee? Incredible, of course—but it’s the heart behind it all that keeps us coming back. Truly one of our favorite places. If you haven’t been yet, do yourself a favor and go experience it for yourself. And if you’ve only gone for coffee - definitely go experience the live music. Either on a pub night or special event they are hosting. They have a unique listening room experience and their taste in local music is devine (Zachary Freedom happens to be...

I'm new to the area from Austin, TX, and I work remotely; I've been searching everywhere between Des Moines and Ames for a coffee shop with a cool vibe to work in and I finally found one! There are plenty of outlets, the lighting is bright without sacrificing ambiance, and the acoustics are comfortable to work in but still very atmospheric. The staff and owners were friendly and the beverage and pastry options were diverse (next time I visit, I'll have to try the Gluten-free donuts). This place is cool and trendy enough that it could compete in Austin, but still very cozy and not even a little bit too pretentious for Slaters quiet Main...

Skip the coffee chains and make this your coffee stop. If I could give 7 stars, I would!

The staff is friendly and helpful. The building/structure is so well done which leads to perfect ambiance/atmosphere.

I’ve had iced lattes and iced chai and both were excellent. They have non-dairy milk choices which is great. And they also have a few pastries, including gluten-free donuts from Sweet Treat without Wheat!

We haven’t been there for a music event yet, but are looking forward to doing that soon.

Slater is fortunate to have this gem of a...