Java House, Iowa City, Iowa. My first love. Pour overs, art, great university vibe where I try to visit anytime I am back. It makes me want to get lost in a book and enroll back in classes.

Fuel Art and Espresso, Mt. Vernon, IA A favorite combo of coffee, art and community. Owner Tommie makes great jewelry and art from found objects and has a wonderful curation of items to browse (and buy) while the coffee is brewing. Their mugs are my favorite for form and function.

Daisy Chain Coffee, East Village, DSM, IA I walk a couple extra blocks because I love the vibe Daniel has created. Rotating art on the walls, great displays of his honey and beeswax candles for sale (I just bought his State Fair Blue Ribbon honey!), easy conversation while he starts coffees for his regulars before they even order and lovely coffee art on your latte. Nothing fussy but everything you need for the perfect morning coffee experience.

Swed and Company, Fort Madison, IA They roast their own in this beautiful, sunny corner spot on the main drag in Ft. Madison. It’s modern and fresh, breathing new life into this lovely river town.

Check back as I keep adding! What are some of your favorites?