Restaurant Information
Des Moines, Iowa 50309
⏰ Opening Hours
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ℹ️ About This Restaurant
As you step into Ritual Cafe, a sense of calm and tranquility envelops you. This cozy, women-owned establishment in the heart of Des Moines, Iowa, exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for solo dining or casual gatherings with friends. The spacious, wheelchair-accessible interior features a mix of comfortable seating options, including plush armchairs and sleek, modern tables, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a leisurely meal or settle in with a laptop and take advantage of the free WiFi.
Ritual Cafe's menu is a true celebration of plant-based delights, offering an array of vegan and vegetarian dishes that cater to a range of dietary preferences. From their expertly crafted coffee and a diverse tea selection to their signature breakfast and lunch items, the culinary team at Ritual Cafe takes pride in using the freshest, locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both nourishing and delectable. Popular menu highlights include the savory tofu scramble, the hearty lentil and quinoa bowl, and the decadent vegan chocolate cake, all of which have earned the cafe a reputation for serving outstanding food.
The exceptional service at Ritual Cafe is a testament to the establishment's commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite for lunch or indulging in a leisurely brunch, the friendly staff ensures that your experience is nothing short of exceptional. With a price range that caters to various budgets, Ritual Cafe offers exceptional value, making it a favorite among local residents, university students, and tourists alike. Overall, a visit to this LGBTQ+-friendly, family-friendly, and transgender-safe cafe is a must for anyone seeking a truly memorable dining experience in Des Moines.
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🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance
Stepping into Ritual Cafe is like stepping into a cozy haven of tranquility amidst the bustling streets of Des Moines. The cafe's decor exudes a rustic-chic charm, with exposed brick walls, warm pendant lighting, and an abundance of natural light streaming in through large windows. The overall atmosphere is both inviting and refined, creating a space that feels simultaneously sophisticated and down-to-earth.
The seating arrangements at Ritual Cafe are designed to cater to a variety of needs, whether you're looking to curl up with a good book, catch up with friends, or find a quiet corner to work on your laptop. Plush armchairs and cozy couches invite you to sink in and relax, while sleek wooden tables and benches offer ample workspace. The cafe's intimate and welcoming ambiance, coupled with its commitment to exceptional service and high-quality offerings, make it a beloved gathering place for the local community and visitors alike.
🌿 Dietary Accommodations
- Gluten-Free Options - A selection of gluten-free baked goods, salads, and entrees made with alternative flours.
- Raw Food Choices - A variety of raw vegan dishes, including salads, wraps, and plant-based desserts.
- Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free spreads, dressings, and baked items to accommodate those with nut allergies.
- Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan options like avocado toast, veggie-based entrees, and healthy fats.
⏰ Best Times to Visit
- Weekday lunch - Ritual Cafe's lively yet cozy atmosphere and diverse vegan offerings make it an ideal spot for a midday meal, perfect for a quick work break or leisurely catch-up with friends.
- Weekend brunch - Indulge in Ritual's renowned brunch menu, featuring creative vegan takes on classic dishes, while enjoying the cafe's relaxed and friendly vibe on a Saturday or Sunday morning.
- Happy hour - Wind down after a long day with Ritual's selection of vegan cocktails and small plates, taking advantage of the cafe's laid-back ambiance and social atmosphere.
⭐ What Makes Us Special
- Women-Owned Establishment: Ritual Cafe is a women-owned business that celebrates the strong female presence in the Des Moines dining scene, providing a welcoming and empowering environment for all customers.
- Inclusive and Accessible: The cafe is committed to inclusivity, featuring wheelchair-accessible amenities and creating a transgender-safe space, ensuring a comfortable experience for a diverse range of patrons.
- Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: Ritual Cafe sources its ingredients from local, sustainable, and ethical producers, prioritizing eco-friendly and plant-based options to minimize its environmental impact.
📍 Local Area & Neighborhood
Ritual Cafe is located in the heart of downtown Des Moines, nestled among the bustling streets and towering skyscrapers. The neighborhood is a vibrant, urban hub, filled with a diverse array of restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. Nearby, visitors can explore the Iowa State Capitol building, stroll through the Des Moines Art Center, or take a relaxing walk along the scenic Des Moines River.
The cafe attracts a loyal following of health-conscious locals, office workers, and students from the nearby universities. With its commitment to vegan and vegetarian cuisine, Ritual Cafe has become a beloved destination for those seeking a nourishing and sustainable dining experience. The cozy, modern atmosphere and welcoming ambiance make it a popular spot for casual meetings, study sessions, and leisurely meals, cementing its status as a true community gathering place in the heart of Des Moines.
💬 Customer Reviews
"Baristas were chatty and helpful in making a choice. Everything we ordered was correct, even the modifications for our d..."
"I’ve been to Ritual a couple times now and the service, food, and atmosphere have been great both times. The service is ..."
"Absolutely amazing vibes and employees! It's hard to find anything on the menu that isn't delicious 💜 very good locatio..."