Best Breakfasts in Des Moines to Kick Off Your Day

2723 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines

(515) 244-7694

Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure in Des Moines is a wonderful place for breakfast and coffee. The coffee is simply amazing—not overly roasted or too acidic, just perfectly balanced. I especially love their special blend that's also served at Aposto. The last time I was there, a new staff member made a mistake with my order, but it was immediately fixed with great customer service. The staff is friendly and the baristas know how to give excellent recommendations. The atmosphere is lovely, with plants and a cozy, historic vibe. The cappuccino is my favorite, and their breakfast options, like the Breakfast Eggspress and Linda Special, are fantastic. They have a great selection of whole roasted beans for those who enjoy bold, darker roasts. Zanzibar stands out for its unique personality and excellent quality, making it unmatched in the metro. It's a fantastic spot downtown with rotating art that adds to the charm.

841 42nd St, Des Moines

(515) 255-1625

My husband and I visited La Mie Bakery for breakfast and absolutely loved it! We tried a variety of pastries like the Fruit Tart, Key Lime Pie Tart, Espresso Brownie, Chocolate Croissant, and Lemon Croissant, along with their to-go sandwiches. I had the turkey sandwich and it was fantastic—definitely something I'd order again. Everything was fresh and delicious, with sandwiches made from high-quality ingredients. There's an impressive range of menu items, so I'll definitely be back to try more. I also had a phenomenal cappuccino paired with a super delicious ham and cheese croissant. My daughter ordered a kiwi tart for dessert and really enjoyed it. The place seems to be a popular spot for people of all ages, with both indoor and outdoor seating options, although the indoor seating can feel a bit crowded. Overall, it's a wonderful bakery and lunch spot worth visiting. The croissants are crispy and flavorful, the cheesecake is creamy, and the coffee is excellent—though the cold brew is strong but worth it. The breakfast pizza could have been served warmer, but that's a minor issue. During our first visit, we also picked up key lime tarts, a rhubarb Danish, a cherry Danish, a blueberry Danish, and a vanilla cream-filled puff. Everything was delicious! La Mie Bakery is definitely a prime spot for great food and coffee. Highly recommend!

950 Jordan Creek Pkwy, West Des Moines

(515) 978-1948

HomeGrown in West Des Moines has quickly become one of my favorite spots for breakfast. The atmosphere and interior design are beautiful and unique, creating a bright and inviting space to enjoy a meal. The food is consistently fresh, high-quality, and absolutely delicious. I can't recommend the coffee cake enough—it's a generous portion perfect for sharing! The coffee is excellent, and I appreciate that turkey breast is available as a breakfast meat option. If you visit, make sure to try the seasonal pumpkin bread French toast; it's outstanding! On my first visit, there was a short 15-minute wait, but it was well worth it. The hostess took our phone number and texted when our table was ready, making the process smooth and efficient. The friendly service added to the positive experience. For drinks, I tried the Sunrise, which was refreshing, and for my meal, I had the HomeGrown House Salad with Ciabatta Cheese Toast—so tasty! My friend ordered her go-to, the Turkey Avocado Sammie, and loved it as usual. Another visit had me enjoying the honey bee drink, a Cuban sandwich, and fruit drizzled with lemon poppy seed dressing—each item was amazing. My husband was equally impressed with his Denver omelette and side of pancakes. HomeGrown offers both indoor and outdoor seating, and we chose a cozy booth indoors. The staff were quick to greet and serve us, adding to the overall wonderful experience. If you're looking for a fresh and flavorful brunch with great service, I highly recommend giving HomeGrown a try!

555 17th St Ste 102, Des Moines

(515) 348-4094

What a delight. I chose HomeGrown Des Moines for a Monday breakfast at 10am, and despite the busy atmosphere, I was quickly greeted and seated with only a short wait. The choice between indoor and outdoor seating was a nice touch, and I went with a cozy booth inside. From the start, the "made in Des Moines" carved on the table caught my eye - a very nice detail. The newer look of the place was impressive, with open ceilings, exposed piping, big lights, and charming food and plant prints. The decor, with its blend of wood and metal touches and flowers on the tables, felt fresh and inviting. The menu was perfect for me - not too overwhelming but with plenty of options. My omelet was lovely, served within 15 minutes, and the strawberry jam was scrumptious. The rosemary potatoes were cooked just right, making for a satisfying meal. My server, Andrea, was a highlight with her warm smile, quick service, and professionalism. The meal, including a soda, came to $16, and I was happy to leave a $20 to cover a decent tip. I also appreciated the detail of having brown sugar on the table. Many tempting items caught my eye, including the French toast, and I will definitely be back to try more. The service staff was helpful and friendly, and despite the busyness, the timing was efficient. The restaurant was clean and visually appealing, though it was quite loud. A standout was the coffee cake and the pop tarts - absolute highlights in my book. The coffee was fantastic and alone worth a return visit. Everything about brunch was fantastic, even down to the English muffins, which surprised us with how good they were. Our server Zach was incredible and attentive, adding to the experience. The attention to sourcing from local farms and the focus on kindness made the visit even more special. Everything we ordered was a hit, and we'll definitely be having it again before our trip ends. If you get the chance, do yourself a favor and give this place a try!

2905 Hubbell Ave, Des Moines

(515) 262-8435

Loved discovering Cafe con Leche for breakfast! As I sit here eating, I'm already planning my next visit. The staff is friendly and the food is authentic, celebrating cultural influences. The chicken tortilla soup is the best I've ever had. I tried the Mexican cinnamon coffee shake with vanilla ice cream, and it did not disappoint. Portions are generous, and this place is amazing, definitely worth the wait! The pumpkin spice latte is the best I've ever tasted. I highly recommend the chilaquiles and especially the torta, which had the perfect balance of flavor and spice. While the prices were higher than expected for breakfast food, and the huevos rancheros were a bit too spicy for my taste, the torta made up for it. It's close to our hotel in Des Moines, making it a convenient choice. With everything fresh and the coffee shakes delightful, this place is a fantastic little diner offering a great experience.

350 E Locust St Ste 104, Des Moines

(515) 288-0004

What a great little spot for breakfast in Des Moines! Scenic Route Bakery serves up coffee and scones, cookies, and cinnamon rolls that make for a perfect start to the day. The dough in their baked goods feels like biting into a cloud—so soft yet firm, striking the perfect balance. Their pecan rolls are a caramel pecan dream come true, and the prices are very reasonable given the quality. I had a chocolate pinwheel that was drool-worthy: fresh, tasty, flaky, and full of chocolate. Not being much of a coffee person, I paired it with a Diet Coke, but their selection of pastries, coffee, and sandwiches was impressive. Ordering is straightforward—place your order at the counter and find your own seat. I chose to sit outside because the weather was perfect, and I even caught a glimpse of the Capitol around the corner. The bakery is open Monday through Saturday and closed on Sundays. It's set in the heart of the East Village, surrounded by plenty of other attractions. My total came to around $8, which was a pleasant surprise given the temptation of everything on display. The atmosphere is fantastic, combining a cozy indoor area with a trendy industrial vibe. The service was top-tier, with staff being attentive and helpful, ensuring the food came out quickly. The owner, Katie, was exceptionally nice and even gave us tips on places to visit in Des Moines. I also tried the ‘Hot Piglet,’ which was good and definitely satisfied my craving, though perhaps my expectations were set a bit high by other reviews. Nonetheless, this place is absolutely worth a visit if you're in the area. The staff and atmosphere make it a delightful stop.

3506 University Ave, Des Moines

(515) 255-0433

Another trip down memory lane while I am in Des Moines has to include a stop at the Library. This place is a quintessential dive bar with excellent bar food and a huge beer selection. I was too hungry to snap a picture of the nachos, but they’re well known for them, and I definitely recommend giving them a try. For entrees, a sandwich or burger is your best bet, but they have other options that are all delicious. Their burgers come with a thicker cut patty that's well-seasoned, and the fries are great too. If you’re looking for a good beer selection, you can’t go wrong here. It's a small space, so spots fill up fast, but if there's a wait, it's worth it. Be sure to check this spot out if you’re rolling through Des Moines! It’s the perfect small hole-in-the-wall that still offers a rare, nice food menu. The bar food plus hit-the-spot offerings include a great selection of hot foods, not just fried. The service was attentive and friendly. I had a booth with a nice view of the games on TV, and the volume wasn't over the top loud, so you could still ignore the TVs and hear your conversations. They have a nice selection of drinks, the usual, and much beyond, including ciders. The legendary nachos are a must-try; if you only had them, that would be enough. Even the burgers, tenderloins, and fries are fantastic. It’s a busy place most of the time, so try going during the off-hours if you’re not into crowds. It’s clear why they've been around for so many years. Breakfast here is also great! The French toast is very good. We had biscuits and gravy and then the chicken fried steak. The gravy for both was very peppery, which I love, though it was a bit much for my wife. Overall, it was excellent. A cold beer and a good greasy spoon meal is a great way to go. Put this on your list!

4708 University Ave, Des Moines

(515) 279-4341

You must visit The Waveland Cafe when you're in the area. The service we received from Haley was personable and friendly, making us feel right at home. Our food came out quickly after we ordered, and the portions were generous with amazing flavor. The cafe is full of fun decorations and details that add to the welcoming atmosphere. I will definitely be back when I'm in town again. This is my in-law’s cafe of choice, and they always make a stop here when they're visiting. We had the chicken melt with fries, which I rate 5/5, and the cinnamon French toast half order, which also gets a 5/5. The patty melt with fries was the best I've ever had, and I would recommend it to anyone—definitely another 5/5. The staff is lovely and welcoming, and the place feels cozy. All five of us even got shirts because we're such frequent flyers, lol. I am 100000% coming back. It was the best breakfast I've ever had. I tried the hash browns with everything and sausage gravy, while my wife had the breakfast special—both were awesome! If you're in Des Moines, this is a must-stop. The food is delicious and a great value. The atmosphere is comfortable and inviting, and the entire staff was incredibly nice. Hailey, our waitress, was fantastic! It's a very fun and relaxed little place.

2700 University Ave Suite 324, West Des Moines

(515) 270-1466

Absolutely loved this breakfast place. My grandmother was thrilled with the senior menu options, and the kids' menu hit the mark perfectly. All the food was delicious, and the staff were super friendly. We really enjoyed dining here and will definitely be back the next time we're in the mood for breakfast. The offerings are very similar to IHOP but with a local touch. Prices were very reasonable. I have no complaints at all. Thank you so much for a great dining experience. Service was great, food was spectacular, and the staff were friendly. You feel welcomed in for a great meal. Update - back again and once again did not disappoint. We had the Irish Benedict and Breakfast BLT. Both were delicious! I love all the pictures on the wall of different food items; it really works! Can't wait to come back and try more menu items. I’ve never had anything that was less than fantastic! This place is a gem in Des Moines. It’s like stepping into a 90s nostalgia cafe with great prices, good food, and reliable service.

located on 13th St. between Grand & Locust, 1301 Locust St STE. D, Des Moines

(515) 288-4872

Visiting Ritual Cafe for breakfast in Des Moines was a delightful experience. The baristas were not only chatty but incredibly helpful in guiding my choices. Everything we ordered came out perfectly, even with our dietary modifications. It's evident that they take pride in their service and products. The decor added to the experience, making it a treat to spend time there. The vibe is absolutely amazing, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. The location is convenient with easy parking, and the coffee is spot-on. While the cappuccino was just okay due to the oily dark roast beans and macro foam, the rest of the menu more than made up for it. The breakfast food was excellent, making this place a standout in Des Moines. The view of downtown adds to the charm, making it one of the best spots to enjoy everything from a cup of coffee to a pastry or other delicious menu options. With a relaxing atmosphere and a comprehensive menu, Ritual Cafe truly delivers a wonderful experience.

9250 University Ave Unit 107, West Des Moines

(515) 528-2212

My sister and I had the best experience at Early Bird West Des Moines for breakfast today! From the moment we arrived, the service was phenomenal. We were welcomed with kindness and laughter, and our server was incredibly knowledgeable about the menu, giving us great recommendations for both drinks and food. He checked on us regularly, and other staff members also stopped by to chat and ensure we were having a great time. I even spoke with the manager to commend him on his wonderful team. We're definitely going back and highly recommend this place. In one word—awesome! The entire staff seemed genuinely happy to be there, from the friendly hostess to our delightful waitstaff. The food was delicious with generous portions. Visiting the area for a concert, we drove 20 minutes after reading reviews and it was absolutely worth it. I can't wait to try other locations on our way back! My first thought was, "It's happy in here!" Brittany, our server, was amazing—she had all the answers to our questions and gave us yummy suggestions. I can't wait to bring the grandkids for brunch, especially since they have cartoons on TV, perfect for young and old kids alike. The food was amazing, with big portions. The menu had an incredible variety of food and drinks. The service matched the quality of my perfectly prepared meal. The Crab Cakes Benny was amazing, and the Jalapeno Hash Holes were incredible. What a great place with a great menu!

212 E 3rd St Ste B, Des Moines

(515) 280-5251

The Breakfast Club in Des Moines is an absolute gem. From the moment I walked in, the vibrant atmosphere and nostalgic 80's pop music made me feel right at home. The decor is funky and fun, adding a unique charm to the whole experience. I ordered the chicken club, and it was genuinely one of the best I've had, with a real chicken breast, not deli meat. My husband had the farmer boy loaded hash browns and cleaned his plate with enthusiasm. The cappuccino with almond milk was delicious, and I can't forget to mention the Flight of Mimosas, which were definitely worth it! Despite being busy, especially since it was the Monday after Hinterland Music Festival, the staff was friendly and efficient. Our waitress Michelle was fantastic, offering great recommendations and making us feel welcome. The service was prompt, and I appreciated how well the team worked together despite the rush. Though there were a couple of minor hiccups, like the seasoning in the egg rolls and a bit of a wait between drinks and orders, those are easily overlooked considering the overall positive experience. The Breakfast Club also offers an outdoor patio and ample free parking, which is a bonus. Even with the high prices, the generous portion sizes make it worth every penny. I'm already looking forward to my next visit and exploring more of their menu. If you're in Des Moines, don't miss out on this wonderful breakfast spot!

1907 EP True Pkwy Suite 102, West Des Moines

It's that time again, y'all! My son took my mom and me to Eggs and Jam for an appreciation breakfast, and it was fantastic. The atmosphere was great, and the food was seasoned just right, ensuring we left full and happy. I have to say, anything grapefruit is my jam, and they nailed it here! The concept is clever and cool, executed perfectly. The food was modern without being overdone. The bacon was a standout, and the omelette filled with candied bacon was even more delightful. Surprisingly, the side of gravy I accidentally ordered turned out to be a favorite. Our server was awesome, and they even gave me a to-go cup for my coffee. We beat the crowd by going right after they opened, but it would’ve been worth a wait. Plus, they have yard games out front for kids. I couldn’t resist trying the "Fight! For Your Right! To Pudding!"—and it lived up to the hype. The local hot sauce added just the right kick. The service and the decor/music choice were top tier. I was pleasantly surprised to find this gem in West Des Moines. We were looking for a new sit-down breakfast spot and found Eggs and Jam at the top of the search list. We arrived on a Sunday at 9 am—good thing because by the time we left, there were 40 people waiting outside! I had the chorizo omelette, and my wife had the French toast. Neither of us was disappointed. Don't just take my word for it, though—try it yourself! Happy eating!

333 5th St, West Des Moines

(515) 705-2030

As if I needed another reason to rave about St. Kilda, my solo dad time with Odin was made even better with a stop there for breakfast. We headed to Valley Junction on a Saturday morning for some errands, and when Odin gave me the "I'm hungry" look, I knew St. Kilda was the perfect choice for mom-approved food and a kid-friendly atmosphere. What a pleasant surprise it was to receive such attentive service from Alex Hall and his team—they truly went above and beyond to ensure everything was perfect for us, from the kid-friendly menu options to interactions that made entertaining a toddler much easier. St. Kilda is a phenomenal spot, whether you're dining in or taking out, and it's ideal for any time of day. The coffee is consistently perfect, and the lattes never disappoint—especially the tiramisu latte, which I highly recommend. My husband and I have tried a variety of dishes, from bao buns and brekkie burritos to mushroom grilled cheese and avocado toast. Everything has been delicious. The staff is friendly, and the service is outstanding. Some must-try items include the Florentine eggs, Big Aussie, chocolate croissant, blueberry muffin, and, of course, their latte. I've also stopped by for lunch and enjoyed the smashburger, a four cheese pizza with hot honey, and a grilled cheese with mushroom, grilled onion, and Fontina. Every bite was fantastic. St. Kilda has easily become one of my favorite spots in Des Moines, and I'm definitely going back!

300 SW 5th St, Des Moines

(515) 369-7854

During my visit to Des Moines, I stopped by St. Kilda Cafe & Bakery for breakfast, and I was genuinely impressed. I tried the avocado toast with poached eggs, which was delicious despite the corn not being charred as described. The salsa and pickled red onion added a great flavor and texture to the dish. Everything was served promptly, and I appreciated the presentation. I also had an oat milk cappuccino, which was average, and it wasn't as hot as I had requested. But the service more than made up for it; our server, Levi, was outstanding—friendly and attentive. He recommended the tiramisu French toast, so we ordered it along with two other entrées because we couldn’t resist. Levi also brought out some berry compote for us to try and shared some excellent local tips. The chorizo tacos were a standout, with huge portions that were more than enough to satisfy. The menu offers a unique combination of flavors, and the atmosphere was open and inviting. For anyone staying at the Hilton, it's definitely worth the mile walk. If I'm ever back in the area, I'll make it a point to return. This place is a gem in Des Moines, and I highly recommend it for both locals and visitors alike.

5525 Mills Civic Pkwy #100, West Des Moines

(515) 224-7030

Walking into The Breakfast Club in Des Moines was like stepping into a lively, fun world. The vibrant atmosphere, with its upbeat 80’s music and engaging music videos, immediately set the perfect tone for the morning. I kicked things off with a delightful mimosa flight, experimenting with flavors like strawberry, classic, blueberry lemon, and creamsicle. While my wife savored her rich Irish coffee, my son tried the orange Julius, though it wasn't his favorite. The food was a standout. My choice, the biscuit Benny, was nothing short of amazing with its fluffy biscuits, tasty gravy, and perfectly cooked country fried chicken. The hash browns were spot on as well. My wife was thrilled with her breakfast tacos, packed with tender carnitas that made them so satisfying. While my son found the chicken sandwich just okay, the fries could've been crisper and warmer for sure. What really made our visit exceptional was the outstanding service. Our server, Tammy, was incredible, guiding me through the menu and ensuring my drink was always full. The staff were genuinely friendly, contributing to a welcoming vibe that makes you feel right at home. Despite a few minor hiccups, like the music being a bit loud and a slightly chilly spot, the overall experience was fantastic. The Breakfast Club is a must-visit, not just for the fun and energetic atmosphere but for the delectable food and top-notch service. A huge thanks to Tammy for making our breakfast genuinely enjoyable. We'll definitely be back! 11/10 recommend!

1111 25th St, Des Moines

(515) 277-1111

During my trip through Des Moines, my relatives recommended stopping by Drake Diner for breakfast, and I’m glad I took their advice. Located conveniently off I-80, this place exceeded my expectations. It was my first visit with my daughter, and we were both impressed by the huge portions and excellent service. Drake Diner has a charming vibe that reminds me of Angels Diner in Florida. Despite being there for breakfast, I appreciated the option to order off the lunch menu, a big bonus for someone like me who’s allergic to eggs early in the morning. I chose a turkey club with onion rings, and my daughter went for a classic breakfast option. Both meals were served hot and delicious with generous portions. The service was attentive and friendly, adding to the positive experience. Even though there was a slight wait before being seated, it was worth it. They also offer a nice kid's menu, which makes it a family-friendly spot. While some items seemed a bit pricey, that’s typical nowadays. Overall, Drake Diner is a place I’d gladly return to, perhaps for lunch or dinner next time, to explore more of their menu offerings.

1253 1300 SE 1st St, Des Moines

(515) 244-1443

Mullets Restaurant in Des Moines is a gem for breakfast, offering an affordable and enjoyable dining experience. With most menu items under $15, there's a wide variety to choose from, making it perfect for any palate. The sports bar atmosphere adds a fun vibe, and the view of the pond is beautiful. Their metal drink glasses are a cool touch, though they do get a bit cold. During a visit for brunch on a Saturday, I was delighted by the tasty chicken and waffles and a solid brisket breakfast burrito that paired well with hot sauce. The Bloody Mary was a highlight, too. The cozy environment, complete with a quirky fish sculpture out front, adds to the charm. If you haven’t been, you should definitely check it out to see why locals love it. Despite a minor hiccup of having to move tables once, the service was quick and efficient. On a subsequent visit, the country eggs benedict impressed me with its huge portion and excellent taste. The entrance was cleaner this time, allowing me to notice the fun mullet photos. Overall, the menu selection is vast, and I'm excited to try other dishes in the future. It's a place worth returning to, even from five hours away!

304 E 30th St #3718, Des Moines

(515) 262-7692

Papa Kern's Cafe has always been a cozy, welcoming spot for my family and me in Des Moines. Whether dining alone or with the whole family, we always leave a generous tip, often between $10 to $20 per plate. On our last visit, we even tipped a young student wiping tables a separate $10, as a small gesture of appreciation. The food here is consistently delicious and satisfying. Their steak is perfectly cooked, and the grilled tenderloin is delightful. My top pick, though, is the Italian Sausage sandwich, which is always enough to enjoy later for round two. During a brunch visit, I decided to try the farmers eggs, adding mushrooms and jalapenos without any extra charge—a nice surprise! My husband's biscuits and gravy were equally impressive, and the coffee was just right. The service is impeccable; our waitress managed a bustling room with remarkable efficiency and grace. We were pleasantly surprised at the end by how economical the entire meal was, making it a wonderful little date. The staff is warm and friendly, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. We enjoyed our meal immensely and are already looking forward to going back!

621 Des Moines St, Des Moines

(515) 243-0247

I love Railroad Bill's Dining Car for breakfast in Des Moines. The service is super friendly, and the food is fantastic. It's connected to a really cool antique shop, which is definitely worth exploring. This place is my go-to spot for weekend breakfasts. I always order the "Streetcar" omelet with hash browns. It's hard to find a spinach, mushroom, and feta omelet nearby, and theirs is absolutely delicious. It even looks like a burrito! The service is friendly, but it's a diner, so you’re mostly on your own after you get your food. The atmosphere is great, with old railroad memorabilia and an attached patio. When the weather is nice, they leave the patio doors open, which is lovely. After eating, I love browsing the antique shop—it’s full of quirky finds. Railroad Bill's is a place where you feel like you belong. It's not just about the tasty, generous portions; it's about the welcoming and friendly people. The prices are excellent, and the nostalgic ambiance is charming. The small dining space adds to its charm, like a secret spot with amazing dishes that fill both your stomach and your heart. This gem in downtown Des Moines is perfect for meals with friends and family. The vegan menu is incredible, so there's something for everyone. I was delighted by the delicious vegan options, and my partner thoroughly enjoyed their fried chicken and gravy. We visited during a road trip through Iowa, and it's a place we'll definitely return to when we're back in town.