Mars Cafe Des Moines: Your Go-To Spot For The Galaxy's Best Brew
Are you looking for a truly special coffee shop in Des Moines? Maybe you want a spot that feels like a warm hug, somewhere you can grab a great cup of coffee, a bite to eat, or just unwind. Well, Mars Cafe Des Moines is, you know, a place that really stands out. It's been a beloved part of the Drake University area for quite a while, and people often call it the best coffee shop around. This place has built a reputation for offering some truly wonderful beverages and a very welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite for many folks in the city.
For anyone searching for a dependable and delightful coffee experience in Des Moines, Mars Cafe, it's almost, a must-visit. It's not just about the coffee here; it's about the whole vibe. This establishment has been serving the community since 2006, so it's had plenty of time to perfect its craft and become a real fixture in the neighborhood. You can find it easily at 2318 University Avenue, which is right there in the 50311 zip code of Des Moines, Iowa. That's, you know, a pretty convenient spot for many.
What makes Mars Cafe Des Moines so popular? Well, it's a combination of things. They have a wide selection of drinks, from your classic coffee and espresso to various teas, and even beer and wine. Plus, they offer food, so you can grab a meal or a snack. It's a place where you can spend some time, whether you're studying, meeting friends, or just enjoying a quiet moment. The overall average rating of 4.4 stars really speaks volumes about how much people appreciate what they do here, and that, is that, a pretty good sign.
Table of Contents
- Welcome to Mars Cafe: A Drake Area Gem
- What You'll Find on the Menu
- Where to Find Mars Cafe: Location Details
- What People Are Saying About Mars Cafe: Reviews and Ratings
- Visiting Mars Cafe Today
- Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to Mars Cafe: A Drake Area Gem
Mars Cafe Des Moines has been a fixture in the Drake neighborhood for a good long while, actually, since 2006. It's more or less become a landmark for students and locals alike. This place has truly carved out a special spot in the hearts of many, offering a comfortable place to hang out, study, or just relax. It's a coffee shop that, you know, feels like home to a lot of people.
The establishment's long history means it's seen a lot of changes in the area, but it has remained a consistent source of great coffee and a friendly face. It's located right there at 2318 University Avenue, in Des Moines, Iowa, postcode 50311. This location, you know, puts it right near Drake University, which is pretty convenient for students who need a caffeine boost or a quiet corner to hit the books. It's a place that, in some respects, serves as a community hub.
The Atmosphere and Mission
Mars Cafe really stands by its core idea of offering what it calls "the galaxy's best coffee" in a truly welcoming space. They even serve some "space snacks" every now and then, which is a fun little touch. The vibe here is relaxed and inviting, making it a great spot for various activities. Whether you're catching up with friends, working on a project, or simply enjoying a moment of peace, this place tends to be just right.
The goal is to provide more than just a drink; it's about creating an experience. The focus on a welcoming environment is, you know, a big part of why people keep coming back. It’s a place that, basically, makes you feel at ease. The staff works to make sure everyone feels comfortable, and that, is that, a really important aspect of any good cafe.
What You'll Find on the Menu
When you visit Mars Cafe Des Moines, you'll find a menu that offers a good variety of items, covering both drinks and food. They aim to have something for just about everyone, which is, you know, a pretty good approach. You can view their full menu to see all the choices, which is, actually, quite helpful for planning your visit.
Coffee and Espresso Drinks
For coffee lovers, this place is, arguably, a dream. They offer a range of coffee options, from your regular drip coffee to more specialized espresso drinks. So, whether you like a simple black coffee, a creamy latte, or a strong shot of espresso, they have you covered. The quality of their coffee is something they really pride themselves on, and it shows in the reviews.
They work to make sure each cup is made with care, providing that rich flavor many coffee drinkers seek. It's not just about the caffeine; it's about the taste and the experience of a well-made drink. This commitment to quality is, you know, a big reason why many people consider it the best coffee shop around. It's a place where, in a way, coffee is an art form.
Tea and Other Beverages
If coffee isn't quite your thing, or if you're just in the mood for something different, Mars Cafe also offers a selection of teas. You can find various types, giving you plenty of choices for a warm and comforting drink. This means that, basically, there's something for every preference, whether you prefer a classic black tea, a soothing herbal blend, or a refreshing green tea.
Beyond coffee and tea, they have other non-alcoholic beverages too, ensuring everyone in your group can find something they like. It's all about providing a comprehensive selection, which is, you know, a pretty thoughtful approach. This variety helps to make the cafe a popular spot for many different tastes.
Food Options and "Space Snacks"
Mars Cafe isn't just for drinks; they also have a food menu. So, if you're feeling hungry, you can grab a meal or a snack to go along with your beverage. This makes it a great spot for breakfast, lunch, or just a quick bite in between. The "space snacks" are a fun little nod to their name, adding a bit of whimsy to your visit.
Having food available means you can really settle in and make a day of it, or just grab something quick if you're on the go. The convenience of having both drinks and food in one spot is, you know, a real plus for many visitors. It's a place that, in some respects, caters to all your needs for a cafe visit.
Beer and Wine Offerings
Surprisingly for a coffee shop, Mars Cafe also offers beer and wine. This makes it a versatile spot, allowing you to transition from a daytime coffee meeting to an evening get-together with friends. It's a nice option to have, especially if you're looking for a relaxed place to unwind after a long day.
The inclusion of alcoholic beverages expands its appeal, making it more than just a morning stop. It shows that, basically, they aim to be a place for all times of the day, offering a little something for everyone. This variety is, you know, a pretty unique feature for a coffee establishment.
Where to Find Mars Cafe: Location Details
Finding Mars Cafe Des Moines is pretty straightforward, especially if you're familiar with the Drake University area. The main location has been a steady presence for years, making it easy to locate for regulars and new visitors alike. It's a spot that, you know, has become quite well-known in its neighborhood.
The University Avenue Spot
The primary and enduring location for Mars Cafe is at 2318 University Avenue, in Des Moines, Iowa 50311. This address places it squarely in the Drake neighborhood, which is a lively and accessible part of the city. It's a location that, actually, sees a lot of foot traffic, especially from students and university staff.
Being near a college area, it's pretty common for coffee shops like this to thrive, and Mars Cafe is, you know, a prime example of that. It's a convenient spot for many, and its consistent presence at this address has helped it build a strong local following. People often mention its proximity to Drake University in their reviews, highlighting its easy access for that community.
A Note on the Skywalk Location
It's worth noting that while the University Avenue location is thriving, there was, apparently, a Mars Cafe's skywalk location downtown Des Moines that has since closed. The doors there are now locked, and another business is reportedly moving in. So, if you're looking for Mars Cafe, make sure you head to the University Avenue address for the authentic experience.
This distinction is, you know, pretty important for anyone trying to find the cafe. The long-standing, much-loved spot is the one near Drake University, and that's where you'll find all the great coffee, food, and atmosphere that people talk about. It's a good idea to remember this, just to avoid any confusion when you're planning your visit.
What People Are Saying About Mars Cafe: Reviews and Ratings
Mars Cafe Des Moines has gathered quite a bit of feedback from its customers over the years, and the general sentiment is, you know, pretty positive. People often share their experiences online, giving a good picture of what to expect when you visit. This kind of feedback is, actually, very helpful for new visitors.
Customer Feedback Highlights
Many customers have left reviews, with one popular site showing 619 customer reviews, calling it one of the "best coffee & tea businesses" at its University Avenue location. Another platform shows 665 customer reviews with an overall score of 85, which is, you know, a very good indication of customer satisfaction. On TripAdvisor, 25 unbiased reviews rate it 3.8 out of 5, placing it at #144 out of 388 restaurants in Des Moines.
Review highlights often mention the cafe's appeal to college students, with one person recalling how much they loved it as an undergrad. Another review points out that "college areas always have good coffee," and this place is "right next to" Drake. There's also a comment that, you know, makes it clear it's in Des Moines near Drake, and "not on University Ave in West Des Moines (West Des Moines likes to steal all the good businesses)," which is a bit of a playful jab but highlights its true location.
Overall Impressions
The overall average rating for Mars Cafe in Des Moines, Iowa, stands at a solid 4.4 stars. This rating, you know, suggests a very consistent level of quality and service. It shows that the majority of diners have had a positive experience, appreciating the coffee, the food, and the general atmosphere. It's a place that, in a way, seems to hit the mark for many.
The reviews collectively paint a picture of a welcoming coffee shop that delivers on its promise of good coffee and a comfortable space. People often talk about the variety of beverages, including coffee, espresso, tea, wine, and beer, along with the food options. It's clear that, basically, it's a well-regarded establishment in the Des Moines coffee scene.
Visiting Mars Cafe Today
If you're planning to visit Mars Cafe Des Moines, it's good to know their operating hours. Today, Mars Cafe will open from [insert today's opening and closing hours here, e.g., 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM]. It's always a good idea to check their current hours if you're making a special trip, just to be sure. They have, you know, a pretty consistent schedule most days.
Whether you're looking for a quick coffee to start your day, a place to have lunch, or somewhere to relax in the afternoon, Mars Cafe is ready to welcome you. It's a place that, actually, has a lot to offer, from its wide range of drinks and food to its friendly atmosphere. So, next time you're in the Drake area of Des Moines, consider stopping by. You might just find your new favorite spot.
You can learn more about local coffee shops on our site, and link to this page here for more great places to visit in Des Moines. For additional insights into the vibrant local scene in Des Moines, you might want to check out the Catch Des Moines website, which is, you know, a pretty good resource for visitors and locals alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often have questions about Mars Cafe Des Moines. Here are some common ones that, you know, tend to come up.
What are the hours for Mars Cafe Des Moines?
Today, Mars Cafe will open from [insert today's opening and closing hours here]. Their hours can vary a little, so it's always a good idea to check their specific daily schedule if you're planning a visit, just to be sure. They usually have, you know, pretty consistent opening times.
Does Mars Cafe Des Moines have food?
Yes, Mars Cafe offers a food menu in addition to its wide selection of beverages. You can find items for breakfast, lunch, or just a quick snack, so, you know, there's something to eat while you enjoy your drink. They even have some fun "space snacks" sometimes.
Is Mars Cafe Des Moines good for studying?
Many reviews suggest that Mars Cafe is a very good spot for studying, especially given its location near Drake University. It's described as a welcoming space, and, you know, a lot of college students find it to be a comfortable environment for hitting the books or working on projects. It tends to be a pretty popular choice for that.
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