Story By: Grace Benson ’26
I have a few theories about why Pella is one of the best places to live in Iowa, but the tastiest reason? Coffee shops! A highlight for Central College students each year is trying out the many (and I mean many) local coffee shops in Pella. As a coffee addict myself, I can’t wait to share some of my favorite places with you!
Global Café at Geisler
The Global Café at Geisler is the most convenient coffee stop for on-the-go Central students. Tucked beneath the college library in the heart of campus, meals and lattes at the Global Café come included with a Central meal plan. Every day at lunch, you can find me ordering a pressed sandwich and a salted caramel latte while I chat with friends in line. I love seeing familiar faces every time I stop in!
Smokey Row
When most people think of coffee shops in Pella, their first thought is Smokey Row. And what’s not to love? With worn brick walls, red booths, upper-deck seating and antique ceiling tiles, this coffee shop is a vintage hot spot for locals and visitors alike. Smokey Row is my go-to destination when I need a few hours of uninterrupted study time, but I also love hanging out with friends and meeting new people every time I visit.
Iris Coffee Company
Fresh, fun and decorated with pops of yellow, Iris Coffee Company has the best modern coffee shop vibes. My roommate and I enjoy stopping in to check out the latest experimental drink. The Dirt Cup Latte, made with espresso, milk, chocolate drizzle, OREOs and gummy worms, is one of their featured items in the summer. My roommate’s favorite drink from Iris is the Cambodian. I still stick with a caramel latte, but there are lots of options for those who enjoy unique drinks!
The Brew Coffee House
The Brew Coffee House is another sleek coffee shop in town. With balcony seating, a fireplace and comfy couches, The Brew makes for a great study spot. I like to visit this coffee shop on Sunday afternoons when some of my other favorite locations are closed. I’ve even had a triathlon team banquet here before! It’s not uncommon for me to pick up a call from my roommate and hear her say, “Come to the Brew, I’m up in the balcony.” It’s one of our favorites!
The Perk of Pella
If you’re looking for coffee on-the-go, The Perk of Pella is the place for you! Pull up to the drive-through window and order from the friendly baristas in the little orange building before continuing your explorations in town. On Sunday mornings, my friends and I love swinging through the Perk on our way to church. It’s always fun to see all the Central students working at this locally owned coffee destination! Embrace Pella’s Dutch heritage in an entirely new way and order their specials: a Dutch Boy or Dutch Girl!
Scooter’s
Scoot on over to Scooter’s for another great option for coffee on the go! Conveniently located on the way to hotspot grocery stores in the area, Scooter’s is the perfect place to grab your favorite drink before running all your college errands. Every once in a while, my triathlon coach swings through the Scooter’s drive-through on the way back from a tough workout and buys us all smoothies — yum! My favorite smoothie is the Peanut Butter Power.
The Sanctuary
Last but not least is my favorite coffee shop in Pella: The Sanctuary! I love this coffee shop so much I even wrote a poem about it in one of my English classes. With an overwhelmingly large menu of specialty drinks to choose from and an adorable Christian bookstore in the back, The Sanctuary is a go-to destination for many of my Central friends. I’m not proud to admit how many free drinks I’ve earned through the punch card, but hey — I never turn down the chance for a free latte!
By now, I hope you’ve seen that Pella has something for everyone in search of a unique coffee shop experience. If you’re not much of a coffee drinker, most of these locations feature non-coffee drinks and bakery treats as well. Nobody will leave disappointed!
Well, what are you waiting for? Give one of these coffee shops a try today and get a taste of what makes Pella such an incredible place to live!
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About the Author
In my free time, I love visiting coffee shops, thrifting and working out with my friends. I enjoy long walks at Lake Red Rock and catching as many sunsets as I can. Central is my home away from home, and I hope you find your place here, too! Go Dutch!