Coal Palace Café and Books

The food is great, everything we've had here was delicious. The staff are super friendly and they make you feel welcomed from the moment you walk in. The organization does wonderful work with it's workers. They made the space feel very comfortable with an eclectic style, book collections, and boardgames. The building is old and has a lot of character inside and out and the overall ambiance of the space is adorable. They also provide free WiFi for customers. This quickly became one of our favorite places in town.

What an amazing experience! -- First time customer and it was no let down. -- Great staff, tasty food, and the espresso latte is DELICIOUS. -- Peaceful atmosphere. -- Books to read. -- They even seem to have a loyal customer base, which is always delightful to see and is a great sign. -- My food reccomendation: Bacon breakfast burrito with pepper jack cheese and avocado toast on wheat. The food is so filling you won't be able to finish both, even though it's so delicious you want to.

Edit Remarks: To add: How convient is it that it's across from the mechanic shop? If you're anything like me and fall behind schedule sometimes, grabbing a bite in a relaxing and calm environment while your car is being worked on is a Win-Win situation.

Wonderful place for lunch! The food is delicious and the service is top notch. I also love the ambience: tin ceilings, hardwood floors, lots of books, and interesting architectural details. Very cozy.

Great food and good help

Great food and friendly atmosphere! This was my first visit and I was greeted by name !

This is a lovely newer cafe to the Ottumwa area. They're lattes are very good, seating is abundant though they are busy in the morning!

Good food. Generous portions. If you love soup and sandwiches try it out. Coffee is good too. Serves breakfast also.

Great place to eat. Love the reclaimed building. People friendly and good food

They make awesome drinks. Had a vanilla latte, extra vanilla. Was hot and good.

Amazing atmosphere. Great food! Super nice staff!