The Slow Down Coffee Co.

Friendly and espresso is amazing! Definitely will be going back. They taught me the difference between latte and macchiatos. Place smells amazing and staff is just so down to earth

One of the best cappuccinos I have ever had!! I found this cute coffee shop on our way through Des Moines. The vibe was spot on with great coffee and lots of cute plants and pots for purchase. The staff was friendly and engaging. 10/10 would recommend to anyone looking for a good coffee and atmosphere.

Happened to just be in the area and stopped in. Stayed awhile reading. Great atmosphere, and music, drinks ( I had a Mocha and a Cup of Sunrise tea, and an almond croissant) were LOVELY, and the sweet lady serving at the counter is fantastic with people.

I tried one of their new drinks on a Sunday and then buzzed over maybe 3 days that next week to get it on my break...?! 😄

Coffee is excellent, the staff were compassionate, friendly and knew what they were talking about, And as much as I hesitate to use the word ambience, this place was seriously gorgeous on the inside. The ambiance was amazing

Slow Down is one of the best coffee shops in Des Moines! The Baristas are the best around, and the owners are fantastic and very engaged with their community!

Coolest little coffee shop. Great place to stop on my bicycle. Not far off the trail from The new Riverview Park amphitheater. Great bakery next door in Highland Park.

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 me, Slow Down.

I love this coffee shop! They have the most delicious coffee, the best Hot Cocoa in town, and if you are looking for a place that serves Golden Milk regularly, look no more. They have it on the menu. Drew, Kara and the whole team are lovely. Plus they have coffee you can buy to brew at home as well as puzzles, books and plants for purchase. And if that's not all, several yummy eats to enjoy from some of Des Moines favorite pop up bakers and chefs.

If you want to slow down AND drink a quality cup of coffee in Des Moines, look no further.