Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure

Coffee shop · Des Moines

Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure

Coffee shop · Des Moines

2

2723 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312

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Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null
Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure by null

Highlights

A cozy, art-filled coffee shop in Des Moines serving up expertly roasted brews and delightful all-day breakfast in a warm, inviting atmosphere.  

Featured on Michelin
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2723 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312 Get directions

zanzibarscoffee.com
@zanzibarscoffee

$$$$$ · Menu

Information

Static Map

2723 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312 Get directions

+1 515 244 7694
zanzibarscoffee.com
@zanzibarscoffee
𝕏
@ZanzibarsCoffee

$$$$$ · Menu

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dine in
takeout
delivery
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reservations
outdoor seating

Last updated

Mar 4, 2025

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@michelinguide

"Start with a coffee at Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure, the capital city’s “first and best coffee shop,” where, she says, “you can always find a cast of regulars” while smelling freshly-roasted beans." - Marguerite Imbert

Where Chefs Go: Des Moines, Iowa
View Postcard for Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure
@michelinguide

"The capital city’s 'first and best coffee shop,' where you can always find a cast of regulars while smelling freshly-roasted beans." - Marguerite Imbert

Where Chefs Go: Des Moines, Iowa
View Postcard for Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure

Aaron Shelby

Google
My Dad and I stopped in for breakfast during the holiday season and had an enjoyable morning before heading back on the road towards the Quad Cities. The coffee was hot and piping which I enjoyed! The breakfast was tasty and just the right portion. The cafe itself was very functional with people coming to get their beans and grounds to take home while others of us were enjoying our brew and bites in the cafe. If you're visiting Des Moines, make sure to stop by for an enjoyable experience!

Christina Zimnicki

Google
Cute little coffee shop and roaster, when I saw them online I saw that they roasted their own coffee, with known single origins, which is rather rare. I go in, but unfortunately they don't serve the coffee they roast, and have poorly roasted cheap Mexican as the one they serve. The grinder they have is good, but a poor espresso machine that tastes like it pulled the shot cold. I asked for a latte, and milk was frothed poorly, and they served it to me in a bowl with no handle. They sell a chemex, along with filters for it, but they use basically a drip coffee maker to make non-espresso drinks. They have good coffee beans, they have a good grinder, they are so close to serving good drinks, but they just fall so short.

Melinda

Google
Great coffee! Someone new was training the last time we were in and my order was wrong but they immediately remedied that once notified. Great customer service! But, seriously, the coffee is on-point! Not overly roasted, not too acidic. Just perfectly balanced. They have a special blend that is served at Aposto. I am hooked! Need to try the food next time!

Mike Scoblic

Google
I drink my coffee with no additives of any kind, so I can actually taste the real flavors of the coffee. I can tell you that Zanzibar's coffee is delicious! I ordered my coffee to go but I ended up sitting down to talk to a friend that I ran into at the shop. The atmosphere of Zanzibar's is another real positive for me. It is a warm and comfortable environment. It wasn't too loud, despite being very busy while I was there, at 8:30am on aa Friday. The service was super quick and everyone was very friendly. I believe three different Zanzibar's people were involved in my order and coffee delivery. It might have taken a total of 45 seconds from start to finish, which included paying with a credit card! I didn't buy or consume any of their food so my rating here for the food is based on appearance, variety and price. I'll get some food on my next visit and I'll update my review after that. I highly recommend stopping by Zanzibar's for some delicious coffee. NOTE: There is NO road construction on Ingersoll anywhere near Zanzibar's!

Chloe L

Google
Wonderful place with wonderful staff. The baristas are kind and give great recommendations. Not a traditional coffee place, but that’s what makes it great.

Ojas Gokhale

Google
Lovely coffee shop. Love the ambiance created by the plants inside this historic coffee shop. Coffee was great and the service was very friendly.

Lee Smith

Google
We were driving through Des Moines and were searching for a coffee shop - Zanzibar's stood out as a great place to try and we were so glad we stopped here!! Incredible mocha breve and sweet cream coffee - my only regret is that I didn't order multiples!! The flavor of the beans were crafted and curated so well - I wish we lived closer because this place would be a staple for us if we lived in the Des Moines area. Oh, and did I mention the banana bread?? Seriously amazing - some of the best I've ever had - great flavor, wasn't dry, and a substantial sized slice. The place was packed out too, so you knew from the start that it was a great place. The baristas were focused yet friendly and I felt comfortable asking questions if needed. The next time we're in the area, we'll definitely be back and I'll know to double up on my order too!

Watterlily088

Google
My favorite local coffee shop! The prices are fair for the quality beverages, and a lovely place to sit and enjoy yourself for a little bit. Excellent study spot as well

Marisol S.

Yelp
Amazing place! Wonderful service and delicious coffee! Look no further for coffee and a great breakfast sandwich!

Elle B.

Yelp
I've met people here for work a few times and it's usually steadily busy, even late in the morning. The staff are always very welcoming. The menu has something for everyone. The seating is limited and I didn't notice many outlets, so you might choose a different cafe if you're planning to plug in a computer and work/study while you enjoy your beverage or pastry. Zanzibar's seems to cater more to the chatting pairs or book reading cafe crew. Great little community cafe!

Cliff K.

Yelp
Zanzibars...i think they opened in 1993 after the flood....To some of the nicest people around... I grind their coffee everyday.... Julie is probably one matriarchs of independent coffee shops that are small business owners.... She was way before Starbucks was opened in 2002 in Des Moines.... Maybe the only older owners would be the the Coppola's the original owners of Java Joe's ... the new owners of the Java Joe's name closed the original shop and all others in Des Moines and moved to Ankeny... And the owners of friedrichs chain (Gary and Colleen Meyer) opened 1991, so Zanzibars has been serving Des Moines for 30 years still owned by of the nicest people- Julie ...maybe the oldest coffee shop in Des Moines that has had the same owner throughout? ...I hope you'll support a long time independent Business woman in her coffee shop... not only nice people work there but outstanding great coffee and a commitment to Fair Trade coffee...she actively searches out small farms and some are cooperatives that are run by women. .... I just had some wonderful Kenyan AA coffee from Zanzibars, of course I buy whole beans and grinded at home and have there for a years but this particular batch of coffee was so smooth it's kind of a dark roast almost no acid at all. Julie still displays local artists in her coffee shop and has for years and years on a rotating basis. They also have a nice eclectic breakfast menu and pastries. They do have coffee that's light roasted some even they call first crack and they have the syrups that they add to the coffee but they measure the amount in each drink so you'll get a consistent taste every time. They also have special holiday blends! The other thing I do there is by half pounds of coffee and give them to friends. So shop local during the Christmas season and give your friends some great coffee or enjoy some yourself. #zanzibarcoffee #smallbusiness #Freetradecoffee #locallyowned

Ellie B.

Yelp
Good place to experience but will not be rushing back any time soon. We had a latte and a cappuccino which were good but lacking in some flavor. We were there on a Saturday morning and it was extremely busy, the staff was very nice, and it was fun to be in a busy coffee shop on the weekend!

Maya Q.

Yelp
I like this cafe a lot! They are very knowledgeable and seem very passionate about coffee. They have a lot of different types of coffee bean you can buy to take home, but if you get a drink to-go, l it will be made quick and well too!

Natalie K.

Yelp
I have no idea how it took us so long to try Zanzibar! We came here after a race downtown and had the absolute best time. The staff is extremely friendly and the ambiance is peaceful and true coffee shop vibes. There's so many plants and local art. We ordered coffees, egg sandwiches, and a cinnamon roll. The coffee is obviously fresh roasted and I am still dreaming about the egg sandwiches. Can't wait to go back!

Megan M.

Yelp
This seems to be the coffee SPOT for Des Moines It was absolutely packed when we got there, and we struggled to find a table. However, we did manage to snag one so we could sit down while enjoying our coffee/food. I got a triple latte which was sooooo good. I did not feel super jittery after though, so maybe I'll advance to something more intense next time lol. I also got their breakfast sandwich which was really really yummy. They gave us sriracha to put on it which was just *chef's kiss*. The inside is very cute as well, but like I said it gets busyyy. And the inside is not super large, so I wouldn't really reccomend working from here...but great spot to chat with a friend.

Molaan M.

Yelp
The place was buzzing and I was lucky to find an open table. The tables are inches apart from another so you can't be the claustrophobic type. I had just spent 30 minutes photographing outdoor sculptures at the DM Art Center and was chilled to the bone. Placed my order at the counter. Sat at my little round table waiting for my order about ten minutes. The sandwich and drink were brought to my table and both were fantastic! I didn't know an egg sandwich could taste so heavenly. The hot chocolate was served in a tall clear glass mug with a handle and topped with lot of whip cream. The temperature was perfect. Walked in frozen and moody, left feeling fully thawed, refreshed and pampered. I can recommend going here.

D B.

Yelp
Mocha Mex was amazing! Best mocha ever had. Regular coffee was perfect, too. Enjoyed it alot

Laura C.

Yelp
Just came back from a delicious breakfast and tea/coffee adventure. It was my husband and I's first time in here so we were excited to experience it together. You come in and order what you want then look for seating. Seating is limited so keep that in mind if you are wanting to dine in. They do have a cute spot in the back where you can sit but on a hot day like today unless your not 8 months pregnant and can bare the heat I recommend that spot but we went inside for some cool AC. My husband ordered the cold brew and I ordered the Earl Grey tea with steamed oat milk per the review below me and it was everything ML said. Heaven in a cup! We both ordered the eggs espresso with gluten free toast because of our allergy. I later remembered I saw someone mention their homemade jam so I had a side of raspberry jam and sriacha for my eggs because well I always need spice in my taste buds. Let me start of by saying the eggs were epic! I've never had steamed eggs. Wow! were they delicious, yes and fluffy! The cheese on top just hit the spot too and well my sriacha just matched my soul. I was so amazed by the steamed eggs. I'm the type of person who will sit there making love to my food so excuse me if I am a little extra while I eat. I try to keep it PG. The toast with the raspberry jam was a delight as well. I wonder if they sell the jam? because I made sure to eat the rest of it after I was done spreading some on my bread. It was that good. My hubby loved this spot too. He loved the eggs as well since it was his first time having them cooked that way. I tried his coffee and it was better than any chain coffee spots cold brew for sure. Zanzibar is very affordable. All we got was under 25 dollars not including tip because we did tip. Definitely will be back and recommend this spot to everyone.

Eric W.

Yelp
Best coffee roaster in Iowa ! Love their Ethiopian roasts. Superior brewed at home without DesMoines water.

Ken K.

Yelp
Best coffee shop anywhere, no contest. No longer live in DSM but stoped in when I was back in town. Best coffee and service, as always. Haven't found a place half as good even out in LA.

Paul S.

Yelp
My daughter wanted to grab a coffee from somewhere that was better than Ankeny. I towed her in the truck and headed down here to give it a try. I wrested with the decision to choose between hot and cold. The 110 degree heat index ultimately made the decision for me so I went with a Polar Bear and she grabbed an iced latte. Both were wonderful, but the mildly sweet polar bear won for me. Liked it so much we grabbed a pound of the Ethiopian Guji Kelleuro. Mmmmmm

Cynthia F.

Yelp
Best coffee on our 3 week roadtrip. Really kind staff, excellent dark roast beans, and a fun local vibe. We could have spent hours, and would be regulars if we lived here.

Mark S.

Yelp
Coffee'Coffee'Coffee'~PrettyPlease. Can you say Coffee? As soon As you walk in the door your senses will be Alerted to Coffee'CoffeeCoffee' yes Please. Gets very busy but the pro Baristas are always on Game. Don't know why but I always go with the Grizzly Bear, Think Capachino Milk Shake, not too Sweet and plenty of Coffee'Coffee'Coffee of Course. My good friend had a Double and did'nt even have to load it with Sugar, Impressive. Next time we'll try the eats and go home with some Roasted Beans...Gets a little Loud with good conversation but Who Cares it's; Coffee'Coffee'Coffee' for Sure!!!

Nicole L.

Yelp
A must if you're in the area. The coffee is delicious and I personally like the cafe Zanzibar which is not too sweet but still has flavor. Not a ton of room to sit on the weekends, but it's travels well. Staff was so friendly

Sumita B.

Yelp
Local coffee shop located on Ingersoll. Friendly and helpful staff. Love the smell of fresh roasted coffee beans when you first walk in. There are a few parking spots out front. Simple pastries and chocolate covered espresso beans for sale. Enjoyed the simple iced coffee.

Anna T.

Yelp
Zanzibars continues to offer a very wide selection of quality beans and their roasting techniques are perfect. Thank you for being our favorite and most beloved coffee location in Des Moines. 5 stars

Karin L.

Yelp
One of the original hard hitters on the coffee shop scene in Des Moines - Zanzibar is a place to go if you just really love coffee! I remember coming here all the time back in high school before all the chain coffee shops moved in and options were limited. Not much has changed since then - but the coffee is still incredible! Great crafted drinks, great atmosphere, and no WiFi -- so sit down, relax, enjoy a cup, and pretend like it's 1990 something again!!

Christina W.

Yelp
I love leaving a 5 star review!! Been here a handful of times now and I've been pleased every time. Walking in on a Saturday morning might be intimidating with a full house and long line but it is so worth it. The coffee and food are amazing! So many drinks to chose from! Their house coffees are just as spectacular. I love that you can order drinks with almond and soy as milk substitutions. A dozen different pastries to pick. Their breakfast plates are delectable. Get the Eggs Expresso: two steamed eggs with cheese on an english muffin. Had a friend recommend it, I tried it, and now I'm recommending!!! Service is great! They get busy but they all have great composure handling everyone equally and efficiently with kindness. I like that I can sit down after ordering and they come over and serve me---when they don't really have to! They can call out your name but I like how personable they are by coming over to the table and serving. The environment is shabby: old wood floors, small older tables and chairs. There is "bar" seating at the front and back of the cafe. Coffee bags line the sidewall of the café and coffee accessories occupy the cash register area. This place is the place to come to on a Saturday morning. Almost like another breakfast hotspot like La Mie bakery. Come here to get delicious coffee and food, also expect to see people you know here.

Kelli P.

Yelp
Cute little place with great food, coffee, and service. A really friendly atmosphere.

Izabell B.

Yelp
Very rare and well deserved treat! While traveling all over the world we are always looking for something local and special. This place has exceeded our expectations - service, food offerings, artisan breads and definitely - incredible coffee selection. Highest marks. Can't wait to be back!!

Megan M.

Yelp
Amazing coffee and breakfast! Loved the atmosphere and the staff was very nice! They roast the coffee beans right there in the coffee shop so it feels like a very unique experience and adds to the quality of the coffee!

Sherry Y.

Yelp
Delicious coffee, quick service,...overpriced breakfast. Seriously, eat before you go because you don't want to spend that much on eggs. However, the quality service and coffee really speak for themselves. The beans are roasted to perfection, and the baristas treat their roasts the right way. Espresso, cappuccino, you name it, they do it exquisitely and then some. Fast, efficient, kind service. My go-to place if I ever return to Des Moines.

Hil H.

Yelp
I haven't had a better cappuccino in Des Moines. The Mexican mocha is a super delicious sweet treat. Not much else to say; if you really like coffee or espresso, definitely go here. They have a ton of options.

Jenkin B.

Yelp
My mom started taking me to Zanzibar's when I was like, 4. Now, I didn't start drinking coffee til around age 12, but regardless, this café has been an important scene in my young life. Did increased caffeine intake starting at a younger age than most dishevel many of the synapses in my brain? Probably yes. Was it worth it? Undeniably. Taste their espresso. You'll agree with me and my porous cerebrum. Des Moines has an inordinate coffee shop presence. There's 1 for every 500 residents (note: this statement was not researched or cited from an empirically valid source, but cmon, it's probably true). Because of all the needless java, there's a lot unavoidable advert for inessential potables. You don't want a bad latte. You want the best latte. It's called the Coffee Adventure for a reason. Also, and this is really important, best scotcheroo west of the Mississippi. Honestly, any other scotcheroo tastes like raw flour to me now. Raw, slightly damp, flour. Go to Zanzibar's.

Brittany S.

Yelp
First thing's first: I'm in love with the classical music they have playing up in here. It reminds me of those moments in car when I'm feeling extra cool cruising down the road with smooth jazz rolling into my ears. And to top off the cool and cultured vibe, they have a plentiful stash of newspapers at the counter ranging from local to The New York Times. Simple touches like this brighten my day. I'd also like to give a nod to the abundant stash of living plants in the front of the shop - they create a cozy atmosphere that makes it hard to leave. I am not a coffee drinker, but when I'm told by multiple local sources to check out a particular coffee shop, I'll be damned if I don't give said coffee a shot. As was the case with Zanzibar's. The barista recommended that I try the Mexican Macchiato - which was a brilliant recommendation given my novice level expertise and palate. The chocolate, nutmeg and cinnamon worked together to make the coffee taste both manageable and present. In fact, it was so good, I am sitting here at Starbucks drooling and wishing I could have one....now. So, why not the fifth star? Well, dear reader, it all comes down to the lack of internet/wifi found at Zanzaibar's. I had my laptop in tow and was ready for a serious work session that ended up turning into a "get creative and think of work that can be done without the interwebz" session. Crafty I was and lingered I did. My next visit is more likely to be a newspaper scavenging Saturday morn.

Lisa S.

Yelp
Really great coffee. I had a latte and it was the hottest cup of coffee I've had in a long time. We ate some toasted bagels for breakfast but the eggs looked really good and I wish I would have tried them. I also got a mixed berry scone to go (I know, lotta carbs) but the extra calories were worth it. Ask to get it warmed up. Great service. Very artsy vibe inside. Eat in as a mug is so much better to experience coffee than the usual tippy cup.

Gabrielle S.

Yelp
Pass on food here, unless you are REALLY craving toast. It's just not that good. But the coffee...oh boy. This place has the BEST iced mocha in the metro area. It's like a thick, coffee-bitter chocolate milk and I am here for that. Truly amazing and I love the funky hipster vibe of the place. It feels a little like a secret, which is fun. It's NOT a secret though, given how crowded the small space can become. Give yourself time here, as there is going to be a line. But it's worth it.

Rick H.

Yelp
Serving up fresh roasts and good company since 1993. Zanzibars was one of the very first local coffee shops in Des Moines, and has long since established itself as the place to start your day on the the Ingersoll Avenue strip. Zanzibars' beans are roasted in-house and expertly brewed. Exceptionally well prepared cafe mochas and (my favorite) iced toddies are to be had here, along with eggs delicately scrambled/cooked to perfection via steamers and a decent selection of pastries. Enjoy!

Amanda F.

Yelp
I came at 11 on a weekday and stayed for a few hours on my laptop. There was a steady trickle of business. No wifi, but tables with outlets. I tried the 16 oz Cafe zanzibar (latte with whipped cream sprinkled with nutmeg, shaved chocolate, and cinnamon), which was good. And the eggs espresso breakfast (2 steamed eggs with cheese and green onions, and choice of bread). Total was $11. The staff seemed very friendly to me and other customers I observed. I'll come back and try their house-roasted beans next time. I overhead them discussing flavors profiles and recommendations for several customers, so they seemed knowledgable and helpful. I'd love if they stopped using styrofoam to-go cups.

Rachel W.

Yelp
I love this coffee shop! I found out about it because one of my co-workers in Cedar Rapids used to coerce DSM friends to bring him roasted beans from Zanzibar! He swore by their beans. I'm not a coffee person, but now that we are in DSM, my S/O always buys his beans from there. Personally, I enjoy the chai lattes and coffee cakes. The bean roaster is in the middle of the shop with bags of beans surrounding it. It's the coolest thing. They have great decor--beans and roaster included--and a great atmosphere. Ditch the Starbucks and head on over to Zanzibar!

Kim W.

Yelp
a response to "Kelley K," who complained about the way we (I am a Zanzibar's barista, and have been since 2002) prepare and serve our cold-brewed coffee (which we call "toddy," after the method employed for brewing). she complained that we used a hand washing sink for the water to dilute the toddy. if she had actually monitored the sink for how it was used, she would have realized it is dedicated to beverage prep: for brewing hot coffee, for use in our electric hot beverage heaters, for making bulk iced tea, for drinking water, and, yes, for making iced toddy. We have a sink in our back room which is ONLY for hand washing. the sink she saw, in fact, is plumbed to a water filtration system directly below it in the basement. our toddy is brewed in bulk, about two gallons at a time, and is a concentrated liquid. We serve it, hot or cold, as a single or double strength, and add water to suit the customer's desired strength and whether or not they wish room for cream. if only Kelley K had asked...

Genna S.

Yelp
I'll start by saying I LOVE everything I've had here. But I won't order coffee to go because they use styrofoam cups for hot liquids, which makes me very sad. That being said, they hit it out of the park again with the Linda's Special I could eat 3.

Kristyn M.

Yelp
Jumpin' espresso bean! My first visit to this hopping cafe on Ingersoll! This place was packed. Walk in and you get engulfed in the roasting coffee beans. The smell will warm your soul even on a hot day. Happily we had just finished the Race for the Cure on a cool October morning and were excited to try this little treat. Walked in to the sight of the beans everywhere. Beans being roasted right there. Walked up to a busy counter where are least 5 staff that I could see where buzzing happily behind the counter. One smiles and hands us a breakfast menu. We quickly order the steamed eggs and toast and even better we find out the option of gluten free bread! Yay. All three options at an affordable price. We do our little happy dance.Then discover they have almost every bean they carry in decaf. Of course that is not for me as I greedily order a mocha. Mom gets a decaf mocha with almond milk. We order our Eggs Espresso and sit at a little table tucked in the cozy corner. We watch the people sit at the bar and others get their drinks to go. People started swarming in from the walk and the place is packed. We first get our drinks. Apparently I haven't had a good mocha in a long time cause I nearly chugged it on the first sip. Both of us very pleased with the taste. Mine thick and sweet and hers just a bit lighter. Next came out the breakfast and we devoured it happily. I discovered I like green onions with my eggs and that I must learn how to steam eggs. When one of the ladies came to take our plates I asked a bunch of coffee questions. She was very friendly and happily answered them all and gave her favorites on the coffee options. We soon were back up at the counter getting some coffee to go and some beans. So excited to brew some at home. Very pleased with this visit. Mom says they have been here forever and I hope they continue to thrive. Would make a great meeting place or study spot. I wish I lived closer cause I would just go there to just be there. Don't forget to check out the local art in there, they have some neat little items you can purchase to support local artist.

Vj M.

Yelp
Handsdown, this is the best coffee place in town. Hot chocolate is yummy. The fresh scent of coffee beans when you enter the shop makes you wanna stay there a lil bit longer while sipping away your coffee. My husband makes sure all our guests when in town, take a trip to this coffee place.

Craig Z.

Yelp
Staff was friendly and coffee tasted great. Nice place to stop by and grab a cup. I'll stop by when I'm in the area again.

Alexa Linn W.

Yelp
Really liked the vibe of this place and seemed like a great place to hang out and do work (I got mine to go but would love to come back). However I since learned they don't have WiFi, which is kind of a nice communal, focus on people not technology vibe, but not what I need when looking for a place to do some work. The chai was good and I'd definitely try some food next time! (Also looses some points for styrofoam cups :( ...)

Bill L.

Yelp
According to Yelp, based on what I've read, it seems like Zanzibar's Coffee is one of the most popular coffee spots in town! A few of us decided to check this place out after eating out for lunch to satisfy our sweet tooths. Parking is not difficult, but there is a limited amount, if there's no parking out front, it's possible you need to park in the back and walk around. Upon entering, the layout of the interior decor makes the place looks like Java Joe's coffee downtown. There's an old school feel to it with older designs. The staff members were very friendly and fun to talk to as we told them it was our first time in their establishment. They did a great job giving us recommendations. For drinks we had the Floozy (which is like a milkshake) one was a Hazelnut flavor and one a Lavender flavor; we also had the Caramel Flavored Italian Soda. For sweets we decided to sample their chocolate chip cookie and coconut macaroon. I did not personally like the Lavender flavored Floozy, but the Hazelnut one was amazing! It was so good, I would drive here just for the Hazelnut Floozy. The Caramel Italian soda was good, but not as refreshing as a fruit flavored Italian Soda. The sweets were okay, nothing special, I probably will not give them a go again though. So the atmosphere is nice here, great place to chat with friends! Now, I've ever heard of Floozys before, but I'm glad I discovered them! So good!

Kelley K.

Yelp
We were visiting Des Moines and needed some good coffee for the road trip back. Looked up good coffee shops in the area and decided to give this place a whirl. Happy to hear they offered cold brew as an option (a lot of places we visited in DM didn't seem hip to this yet), we ordered a couple double strength. But then things went downhill quickly. We waited 10 minutes for these to be poured, watched as they were diluted with tap water from the handwash sink (pro-tip, you would usually use filtered water or at least a dedicated water serving tap) and then were served our drinks with a side of antagonism. The layout of this place is not conducive to a customer feeling welcome either. Chaotic and messy with irritated staff frustrated by customers waiting for their ordered drinks in the lane where they need to get by. Oh and also, hot coffee drinks were served in styrofoam cups. Come on.

Crystal T.

Yelp
Super cute inside and great coffee. Would be a good spot to hang out and catch up with a friend. Haven't tried any of their food items yet.

Jordan O.

Yelp
This place is like a middle ground between Ritual and Mars Cafe. Immediately when you walk in, you'll notice a very earth-friendly vibe. One thing to note is this place doesn't have wifi, which makes doing online work impossible. However, I do appreciate it in some ways, because it's somewhat hidden from the public eye (I drove by several times and didn't notice it). The Mayan mocha here is delicious (better than Rituals). Sit at the bar and read a book, newspaper, or enjoy a good conversation. This place is very easy-going and retains a very friendly atmosphere. There seem to be a lot of locals that come here, as I notice everyone is either talking or just enjoying themselves. I'm giving it 4/5 stars because because I like coming here as an alternative to Caribou Coffee (my favorite) or Mars (another favorite). Without wifi it's difficult to be productive, but sometimes it's needed and I appreciate this place for that especially on a Sunday afternoon or midweek when you need to find a cozy place and a book to read over coffee.

Chris B.

Yelp
If Cheers took place in a coffee shop instead of a bar, then it would have been set here. I have never had anything here, food or drink, that I didn't absolutely love. I am definitely going to be making more regular stops here. This truly is a community place. All of the employees are super nice and very helpful. Their hot chocolate is one of the best that I have ever had. They also have pretty amazing smoothies - sooooo good. In my opinion, Ingersoll is pretty dead. Zanzibar's is one of the few places keeping it alive.

Patrick T.

Yelp
Perfect little coffee shop on Ingersal. It's the type of place where everyone gets to know each other. Very friendly staff and some of the best coffee I have ever had. The food is affordable and great and prepared in front of your eyes. Great spot for a meeting, as it is quite and has something for everyone to eat or drink. In the summer I love the fresh fruit smoothies and if you got the winter blues have them make you a latte, they make some of the best in town. Super clean, super friendly and super good coffee.

Liesl S.

Yelp
Zanzibar is a special occasion coffee shop for me. I've been there a handful of times, always with a girlfriend on a coffee date! The lattes are fantastic, whether you opt for some normal (mocha) or branch out (highly recommend the Café Zanzibar!), you will not be disappointed. I have not had their food aside from a biscotti, which was wonderful and a perfect complement to the latte, but they have some great breakfast options and it always looks yummy. The atmosphere is best described as cozy and eclectic. The whole environment is very welcoming; there is not that stereotypical stuck-up barista situation. The baristas are always friendly and helpful. Patiently waiting while I check out the entire menu and then order the exact same thing I had the time before. The only downside is that the prices are a little high, which I understand it is a specialty coffee shop with high end coffee and espresso; however the portions are relatively small for the price. I will definitely return here, not as an everyday event but those coffee dates when the atmosphere and quality make the price worth it!

Sami V.

Yelp
This is my favorite local coffee shop! It's great! They roast their own beans and they're so tasty! I love me some Java! They are fast, busy, and friendly baristas! I usually just go for brewed coffee here because it's so delicious! It's busy, busy, busy on the weekends in the AM but they're quick to get to you! I've been here for a few later afternoon/evening hangouts with my buds and they're always attentive and friendly behind the counter! They serve food - haven't tried any of it yet since I don't think it's really vegan friendly but from what I've seen on tables it looks pretty good! Seriously tasty coffee though, guys!

Sarah G.

Yelp
Wow, this coffee is legit! This was my first time here and I was so impressed with the drinks. It's kind of a funky little shop with overgrown plants and miss matched seats. I told the barista it was my first visit and she walked me through The entire menu in detail to make sure I had a good understanding of everything they offered. They have both soy and almond milk available as an alternative and did not make a big deal when we wanted the substitute. They can also make all the drinks hot or iced which is awesome. I highly recommend this place and will definitely be going back!

Johanna K.

Yelp
I had the Mexican mocha with soy and less sugar = craving fix! Taste like champurrado

Herb E.

Yelp
Great coffee. Great people. Great for the community. Helping thousands of people, including me, off to a good start each day.