At The Grove Cafe, nestled along Main Street in Ames, IA, the warmth of a historic diner meets the heart of a community gathering spot. This family-friendly cafe is famed for its exceptional breakfast offerings and cozy, casual atmosphere. Patrons rave about the delicious cinnamon French toast and hearty comfort food, showcasing a simple yet beloved menu. The Grove prides itself on accessibility, ensuring a welcoming space for all. With a focus on quality ingredients and down-to-earth pricing, it’s no wonder that locals and visitors alike return frequently for that perfect cup of coffee and a satisfying meal. Whether dining solo or with family, The Grove Cafe embodies a true culinary gem.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Does not have assistive hearing loop
No wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Serves great coffee
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves vegetarian dishes
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Has counter service
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has gender-neutral toilets
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Historic
Crowd
Family friendly
LGBTQ+ friendly
Transgender safe space
Popular with university students
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Cash only
Accepts cheques
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Paid street parking
Plenty of parking
Photos
Reviews For The Grove Cafe
Stacy Nelson
Apr 4,2025
Good ole cafe!!! The kind I always look for when out of town! Service was excellent - food was excellent and you get the feel of a family owned cafe - will definitely come back next time we are in town!!!
Carter Wolf
Apr 2,2025
The Grove is a chill, no frills breakfast location. Can be quite busy on weekend mornings around 10am, but is more of a local spot before then. Menu is simple but has options for everyone, and getting a cup of coffee to see what mug you get with is a good time. Make sure to bring cash (last time I went, cards were not accepted).
Cindy Livengood
Mar 30,2025
We LOVED this place. It's a small town cafe with fantastic food trapped inside a college town. Go earlier than you planned and expect to wait your turn for a table. Don't be in a hurry. Our breakfast was far better than every other place in town, and we've been to nearly all of them. You have to try the pancakes. If you can sit so you can watch them cook it's a good show. I had the famous pancake, scrambled egg and ham. All cooked to perfection. Of course I only ate about 1/3 of the huge delicious pancake with homemade pancake syrup. Husband ordered ham and cheese omelet with homemade hashbrowns and toast. His food was also delicious. Portion size is perfect for a person of normal appetite, except the huge pancakes. Never mind the building, it's just very old. Service was excellent, friendly, and fast.
Charles hembree
Mar 22,2025
Very nice down to earth people, they where always quick to help an older man chocking, he was ok but to see the care means something now a days. A must for a quick affordable meal The breakfast was perfect
MIMI D
Mar 21,2025
Small, quaint little cafe - great service, great breakfast! English muffin was grilled to perfection and our biscuits & gravy were made fresh! Everyone working & dining were so nice & friendly!
Charles Blakemore
Feb 23,2025
Simply one of the best breakfasts on the planet. With quality food, warm engaging staff, and down to Earth pricing, you’ll walk out full and satisfied. We’ve already visited several times and will return to enjoy breakfast again and again. Rise and shine, folks, it’s time for a Grove Cafe breakfast.
Robyn N
Jan 21,2025
The best pancakes! Most people can't even finish 1, I always order a short stack with fruit ( I think only available on the weekends) and eat every bite! Waitress even complimented me today that my plate was the cleanest pancake plate she had ever seen. Other breakfast items look tasty, but I'll stick with pancakes!
Kelli Mayo
Dec 28,2024
Great vibes. Perfect classic diner. Awesome pancake. Great prices. If you get Sam as your server consider yourself lucky!!!
Reviews For The Grove Cafe