Home > Des Moines Restaurants > Editorial Review > Editorial Juice Review: Cafe Diem

Aside from an embarrassing experience when my screenwriting professor forced everyone in the class to loudly perform a scene in front of unsuspecting Cafe Diem customers, I always liked going to the Ames eatery. I was eager to try the cafe's second location in Ankeny, which opened last month.

THE GOOD
For about $7, I got a sandwich, cup of broccoli cheese soup and a side of veggie chips.

Adding the soup only cost a dollar more, and it turned out to be a good deal. It was a little thick for my dining partner's taste, but I was just happy to find a restaurant where the staff knew that the soup was definitely vegetarian.

The cafe, which has free WiFi access, is colorful and spacious, with tables, booths, one-person workstations and stools at the coffee bar. Thin drapes hang between some tables, providing privacy without getting in the way.

We went for the menu's two vegetarian sandwiches Â-- a Black Bean Burger and the Three-Cheese Medley. I was hoping for more exciting options, but both sandwiches were sizable and tasty.

There were three options for the sides with the sandwiches and soup Â-- potato chips, veggie chips or carrots. We were happy with the veggie chips, which were mainly sliced-up sweet potatoes.

I usually drink my coffee black but decided to go for a latte, as it felt like a place where I could get a little fancy. It was another good choice and provided a mellow end to a satisfying meal.

THE BAD

We visited three times and there was never much of a crowd. Then again, if you're there to study or have a quiet chat with a friend, there's nothing wrong with that.

BOTTOM LINE

Cafe Diem's good food and great coffee make this a perfect spot for a quick lunch with friends.