Why SweetDudes is the Coffee Gem Des Moines Didn’t Know It Needed

What’s the saying? When life gives you lemons, do you make lemonade? Something like that?

I wanted to create a sweet video featuring SweetDude, the excellent coffee shop in Clive, Iowa. Well, none of my audio worked. So rather than subject you to a video of me silently mouthing words (unless you’re into lip reading?), I’m making lemonade—or, in this case, coffee.

Why SweetDude Should Be Your Next Coffee Stop

SweetDude in Clive should be your next coffee stop if you’re in the area. The name alone hooked me. How could it not? SweetDudes. It’s got this playful, laid-back vibe that instantly made me think, “Yep, this is where two sweet dudes need to grab coffee.”

Who was the other sweet dude? None other than my long-time friend, Shawn Harrington. Remember him? He was the second author of the original Des Moines is NOT Boring blog back in 2008. We go way back, and I figured he’d enjoy discovering a new local gem with me.

Shawn works in Valley Junction, and I’m based in Clive, so I searched Google for something convenient for both of us. When I saw the name SweetDudes, it was a no-brainer.

First Impressions: A Chill Vibe and Unique Decor

Here’s what caught me off guard: They don’t open until 8:30 a.m. during the week. It was a bit later than most coffee shops, but we rolled with it. It worked out great since I had to drop my kids off at school that day. You know how chaotic mornings can get!

Walking in, we were met with a vibe that screamed, “Relax and stay awhile.” The space has a cozy, unique feel, complete with hanging cups (yes, cups hanging from the ceiling—quirky and cool!) and other little touches that make it stand out. The owners wanted to create a space that’s not just about coffee but about community and connection.

The Coffee and the Experience

Let’s get to the most critical part—the coffee. It’s excellent. Shawn and I both opted for their Americano, which was spot-on. The beans are high-quality, and you can taste the care that goes into every cup. They also offer a small selection of food items, so it’s perfect if you need a quick bite to go with your caffeine fix.

What stood out to me, though, was the overall experience. It’s not just a place to grab coffee and go; it’s a space to unwind, chat, and enjoy good company. Whether you’re catching up with an old friend, working remotely, or just need a moment to yourself, SweetDudes has that inviting, come-as-you-are atmosphere that’s hard to find.

Final Thoughts

SweetDude is a coffee shop worth visiting, especially in the Clive area. They have been there two years, right next to Nick’s Bar and Grill at the corner of 100th Street and University, across from the Valley West Mall. 

Its name is memorable, the coffee is fantastic, and the vibe is exactly what you’d hope for from a local gem.

So, next time life gives you lemons—or a botched video shoot—make coffee. SweetDude coffee.

If you’re curious, check them out on Facebook. And hey, if you do go, let me know what you think. Who knows? Maybe we’ll run into each other there.