The Slow Down Coffee Co. in Des Moines is a welcoming haven crafted for coffee lovers. Nestled at 3613 6th Ave, this coffee shop strikes the perfect balance between a cozy retreat and an upbeat social hub. Customers rave about the soothing ambiance filled with mellow tunes, ideal for relaxation, studying, or even casual meetings with friends.
Reviewers highlight the unique offerings, including a wide array of delicious drinks and delightful pastries like their exceptional cinnamon roll—soft, flavorful, and perfectly sweet. The café is also home to a charming 'Little Free Library,' offering a selection of books and journals filled with positive vibes, making it an inviting space for the community.
Guests like Sara and Kimberly express how The Slow Down Coffee Co. fosters a friendly atmosphere, emphasizing its commitment to inclusivity and local culture. Whether you're settling in with a book, enjoying a chat, or simply savoring your coffee, this café ensures every visit is heartwarming. The staff’s welcoming demeanor and the café's community-focused approach make it a true treasure in Des Moines. Overall, The Slow Down Coffee Co. is not just about coffee; it's about connection and creating joyful moments.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
From the business
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Has outdoor seating
On-site services available
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Serves great coffee
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Good for solo dining
Good for working on laptop
Offerings
Serves coffee
Quick bite
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves lunch
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has gender-neutral toilets
Has toilet
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Quiet
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
LGBTQ+ friendly
Popular with tourists
Transgender safe space
Popular with university students
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Photos
Reviews For The Slow Down Coffee Co.
Sara
Jun 29,2025
Slaaaaayyyy queens and kings!! This is exactly what you need. Slow down is just what it sounds like. The music is low and vibes with slower calming tones. Rex Orange County vibes. Literally soothing and magical. Lots of seating options. Some plants to boost the ambiance. Perfect spot for a meeting with a friend, work from home, studying, reading, just relaxing and taking a deep breath. They have delicious drinks. Shirts and jewelry and some books here and other novelty items. I came here on the Coffee shop pass which gave me 7 free coffee spots and this was one of my faves from it. One of the cutest things is a Little Free library inside. This has stickers, books, a peace journal with positive vibes and a good book selection. Very LGBTQIA friendly and welcoming to everyone. Parking is free in the street or a lot nearby. Could not recommend enough. I will for sure be back!
Sara Hartung
Jun 27,2025
Back again? Definitely. When you come inside you should do the following: 1. Order a delicious drink or grab a small snack item 2. Go to the comfy couch area by the free library 3. Read the floral photo album of notes - You will not be disappointed 4. Have a great rest of your day I came to Slow Down today with the thought of needing a relaxing morning and as they branded themselves; to slow down. To my surprise when I came in this place was buzzing with energy and good vibes. Don’t get me wrong, there were plenty of people there that were studying, reading, or having a quiet conversation or time sipping their coffee. I joined the rest crowd and sat there immersed in my book. This made me realize how nice of an environment they held. Whether it was a. Us I was discussion, a quick cup for your daily commute, an interview happening, a local gathering spot, or just somewhere to go, it was perfect for any and all occasions. By far the best and most welcoming place I have been to in a while.
Hailee Anderson
Jun 11,2025
So good I forgot to take pictures! Walking in and immediately greeted by a warm welcome from the lovely worker on shift. Order was smooth and small talk was great. Drinks were good and I would definitely go back
서쟈넷
May 25,2025
The Americano wasn’t anything special, but the cinnamon roll was absolutely phenomenal—soft, flavorful, and just the right amount of sweetness. The staff were kind, and the overall vibe was welcoming, like a cozy spot where locals come to relax and feel at home. It warmed not just my body, but my heart too.
Kimberly Stone
May 16,2025
This might be the MOST welcoming cafe in Des Moines. To add to that the coffee is great they pull double shots so even the small coffee is strong. They have unique menu of coffee and tea specials. They have some pastry and cookies and some cooler items for when you forget lunch. Slow down is also a good place to grab a small gift for a friend. Books, games and other small items. Come as the introvert you are and find space to be you. They provide so much community it warms my heart. Games, books, puzzles and gardening plus strong LGBTQ ally space. This is place is a REAL in treasure.
Amy Cohen
May 8,2025
We love supporting local and the coffee is great!! My partner is picky about coffee never being strong enough, but she loves the coffee at The Slow Down. We also love what they stand for in terms of human rights and sustainability.
Randy & Dawn McMannama
May 1,2025
This was my favorite coffee shop on our driving trip from the Kansas City metro to Minneapolis and back. Des Moines, IA is about halfway between so we searched for the coffee shops with the best ratings. This was our stop on our way home and we were not disappointed. The shop is very inviting and had an interesting vibe that I couldn't pinpoint. It's kind of a flashback to hippie/flower power days (I'm aging myself here - I was little :) ), but not really hippie either. Our barista was the owner, Drew. He is very friendly and engaging. I noticed it as I talked to him, but also as I observed his interaction with customers after us. He is attentive and very present with each customer. I told Drew that I really like the name of their shop because it makes me think "relax". He told me the story of the name, the reason for the shop, and how he and his wife came upon the space. I'll let him tell you the story so you can enjoy conversation with him yourself. There is quite a bit of varied seating inside and a couple of cute wooden table and chair sets outside. I ordered a mocha and my husband ordered an Americano. I really enjoyed my mocha. I could actually taste the espresso and it was smooth. He did a great job pulling the shots. My husband said over and over how much he enjoyed his Americano. The only one I believe he's raved about that much was from Oddly Correct in Kansas City, MO. We each had an oatmeal cream pie made by a local company, Thistle's Summit. They were large like the ones I used to get from Little Debbie. They were SO GOOD! This was such an awesome and relaxing visit to a coffee shop to break up our drive. Great memory. It allowed us to enjoy the journey, not just focus on the destination. We look forward to going again.
Tim H
Apr 25,2025
So many good things to say about The Slow Down Coffee Co.! Where to start.... The menu is fantastic. When I visit a coffee shop for what I call "fancy coffee," I typically get a latte, and The Slow Down does it right. My coffee drinks are well made, taste great, and served by the nicest baristas. Also on the menu are fresh pastries and desserts from local bakers. Love that! Great service, too! Always efficient and friendly. The vibe and atmosphere at The Slow Down Coffee Co. is also welcoming. It always feels good. What I also appreciate about The Slow Down is how supportive they are of the community! Art from local artists is on display, they host game nights, fundraising, and are a safe, inclusive, and welcoming spot for the LGBTQ community. What are you waiting for? Go check them out!
Reviews For The Slow Down Coffee Co.