Hidden Gem Breakfast Spots in Iowa
Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day. We all know the importance of a tasty and fulfilling breakfast. For the past few months, I have been traveling around central Iowa discovering hidden gem breakfast spots in Iowa. Most use locally sourced produce and items. Most of the breakfast spots are located in a unique and creative building. Below is an ongoing list of breakfast spots I have discovered in Iowa. Many of these are within a short distance of the Des Moines area. There are a few that are well worth the drive though!
Coal Palace Cafe and Books
226 West Main Street, Ottumwa, Iowa
This was another super cute and historic breakfast spot located in Ottumwa, Iowa. Coal Palace Cafe and Books is owned by the same people that own Brick Street Books & Cafe in Adel. They did not disappoint either! Their breakfast burrito was delish and you can customize it how you want it. The building and area of Coal Palace Cafe are filled with locals and history.
Milk & Honey
1101 7th Street, Harlan, Iowa
Milk & Honey is a little further from the Des Moines area, but definitely worth the drive. This hidden gem is located in the former lobby of the famous Saylor Hotel in Harlan, Iowa. They are known for supporting local and serving local goods and produce. Everything is so tasty and the entire restaurant is uniquely decorated. We enjoyed looking at old sketches of downtown Harlan from years ago that were displayed on the walls.
The Milk & Honey menu is filled with several options for breakfast and lunch. I enjoyed a gigantic breakfast burrito and my dad loved his egg hash. It was all great portion and very fulfilling.
Sisters in Cheese
203 S State Street, Madrid, Iowa
Sisters in Cheese just recently opened their brick-and-mortar dining spot. This woman-owned business has been providing beautiful grazing tables and boxes filled with cheese for a while. When Sister in Cheese was opening a location I was ecstatic! It is located in a super cute historic building in Marid, Iowa.
I ordered the Breakfast Sammie which included Canadian ham, egg, pepper jack, goat cheese, greens, and sriracha mayo. Yummy! It went great with my cold brew. Amelia enjoyed her yogurt parfait as well! I also loved that they offered large rolls of white paper on the tables for kids to color and draw.
Make sure you are following the Sister in Cheese Facebook page to stay up to date on their weekly offerings.
The Vault
125 Main Street, Gilbert, Iowa
The Vault was the beginning of our tour of hidden gem breakfast spots. I had been following them on Facebook for a while and knew I had to make a trip to try their tasty menu. Each week they offer a limited menu for breakfast and lunch. They serve their home-cooked food in an old bank in Gilbert, Iowa. Talk about a unique character!
I tried their delicious breakfast tacos, homebaked scones, and unique latte. None of it disappointed me. The Vault was also super accommodating for my daughter who just wanted eggs and bacon.
Before you head to The Vault in Gilbert make sure you check their Facebook page to check what they will be serving for the week.
I am excited to continue exploring hidden gem breakfast spots in Iowa and will add to the list above. Do you have an Iowa hidden gem I should check out? Comment below!
