Lockwood Café in Ames, Iowa is refreshing little secret nestled in a corner neighborhood off of Ontario Street. The building is a reclaimed grain and feed store originally built about 1870. It's kind of a self-serve place where you order at the counter, go pick up your own food, and bus your own table. With that said, the prices are extremely reasonable, and the food is excellent quality. The menu is a crêperie with a number of vegan offerings and no meat proteins on the menu, with the exception of eggs. I had the Fruit Parfait Sweet crêpe, my wife had the Apple Crisp crêpe, and my son had the Banana and Nutella crêpe. All three were fantastic, and the coffee was delicious! This is a super affordable little breakfast option that I would recommend to anybody who enjoys a good crêpe and a great cup of coffee. read more

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This is one of my top five coffee shops in Ames! I always love the lattes I get from here - they are always delicious and hit the spot. They have a lot of very unique house made syrups which I would recommend if you're a little more adventurous but I always love a lavender or vanilla. They also serve crepes here which I've only tried a couple but they are also yummy. The location itself is super eccentric with mismatched furniture just a very unique vibe read more

Lockwood Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Ames, Iowa

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Extraordinary coffee could use a little more sweetener to it and maybe answer the phones one out of the 5 times someone calls. Other than that the setting is nice the service and workers were very well. made the trip worth while!! And Side note yes they are still open and running read more

Lockwood Cafe - Desert menu item - Cafes Near Me - Ames, Iowa

Wonderful place! This is one of the best places to get coffee in town. It can be very busy at times, but that's just a testament to their great food, drinks, and service. They use local coffee beans and have some rotating syrups. The space is friendly and community focused. This is the place to go if you want to support local. They are very involved with the community. They have a can drop off crate, small food donation box, local art and more! If you're in Ames and haven't been here, you're missing out! read more

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I've stopped in twice now for work meetings and wish I lived closer to come more often. This is a cool little cafe! The repurposed industrial building paired with the artwork makes for a really neat vibe. It definitely seems to cater to a hippie crowd, with community fridge/closet on the property and a generous vegetarian menu. I wasn't able to resist purchasing some of the student art on either visit. I see they have a stage/gallery space for events as well. Service is hospitable and food is tasty. I recommend a matcha latte and the banana Nutella crepe! read more

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My husband and I stopped here on our way to South Dakota. Amazing food, sweet workers and beautiful building! Would definitely recommend!!

My goal is to try every crepe on the menu. The problem is, I always want to try the special. Everything we have tried here is so delicious. Great flavor profiles I wouldn't think of putting together. Great coffees and teas too. Fun atmosphere. Very laid back. Great service. read more

Lockwood Cafe - The Rizzo (special, added egg), The Greek (added egg), Latte and February Drink Special "Beet ya to it" - Cafes Near Me - Ames, Iowa

I just moved to Ames and have been trying to find my 'spot'. And I think this place is it, I'm a coffee latte snob and am picky about my syrups. My coffee was super good and the syrups were so good too. THE VIBE is so cool and earthy. The outdoor seating is amazing as well. I got the Caramel and Vanilla Latte with Oatmilk 9/10! read more

Lockwood Cafe - Outside seating! - Cafes Near Me - Ames, Iowa

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This is a gem of the eclectic Ames community. A cute little coffee shop and eatery where local bands and groups meet up to gather and "be" safely. There's also a gallery space where events are held. Sit, sip, and hang. read more

Lockwood Cafe - Roasted Schrute crepe - Cafes Near Me - Ames, Iowa

Great Vegan and Dairy free options on most menu items. Morning Bell coffee roasters beans. read more

Lockwood Cafe - Breakfast Special Dairy Free version - Cafes Near Me - Ames, Iowa

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This is a fun, funky friendly place to get a coffee or vegetable-based meal. The setting is unconventional and the staff is great.

Great little find in Ames, we visited my parents and were so pleased to find this right down the street! We will be back the next time in town. read more

First time customers. We got crepes and an ice coffee. Ice coffee came out quick and was good. Crepes took about 30-40 minutes to be ready which was surprised since crepes couldn't be easier to make. There is no other food options besides crepes so we will probably not be coming back unless we are really craving crepes. Ambiance was good but it was very loud. read more

Lockwood Cafe - Fruit parfait crepe - Cafes Near Me - Ames, Iowa

Banana nutella crepe and lemonade are must-try. You get delicious mango lassi(among other yummy things) on Thursdays. Do check their FB/ instagram page. read more

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One of the best things about Ames, hands down. Perhaps the best. Yes, there's coffee and it's very very good. The crepes are also quite tasty. But what's always surprised me is how good (and decidedly not gringo) the dosa is. How many hip coffee places competently serve dosa? And how perfect is a dosa and coffee? Everyone is happy when they are there. I'm sure someone was sad one day, but I was not present. It's just such a thoughtful place. There's a really odd and perfect play structure outside and my son and I love to crawl through it, hide toys inside, etc. There's a sandbox and some really cool old toys and trucks outside, too. If all of Ames were just an extension of this place it would be the greatest of small towns of all time. Whenever I visit, I feel grateful that I live here. My only complaint is about the hours: after 3pm is often when I most "need" coffee, but that's when they close. Then again it's a major team effort, so I get the reason they don't have longer hours. read more

Food is great, coffee is great, mostly my great review is for the atmosphere. As a new mom, this place is seriously so welcoming. There are high chairs inside and outside, as well as little toys and things for kids to climb and ride on. So much open space outside and just a really positive place to be. When you have small kids it's so easy to get funneled into kids only places, or go to places where kids clearly aren't welcomed and it ends up being a negative experience. This was really great!! read more

Everything about Lockwood cafe is amazing! From the food to the coffee to the atmosphere and the staff!

Tried out this place a few weeks ago after all my friends were RAVING about it. Affordable coffee and delicious crepes! I love the interior, it reminded me of the places I go to in Minneapolis. Definitely a gem in Iowa! I was a little confused when I pulled up to it because it doesn't look like your average coffee shop from the outside and I don't believe I saw a sign but regardless, worth it! I tried the banana Nutella crepe and an iced vanilla latte (always a win) and think I spent about $9! If I could change one thing, I wish they were open a little later so I could swing by after classes. Treat yourself & maybe a friend here! read more

Lockwood Cafe - Banana Nutella Crepe, Iced Vanilla Latte - Cafes Near Me - Ames, Iowa

Do you just want to chill and eat a nice crepe with some good coffee, not be overwhelmed by a giant menu, be treated kindly, and enjoy a trendy yet unpretentious vibe? This is the right place. Everything tastes amazing. read more

The environment within Lockwood Cafe is "industrial chic". The unassuming warehouse is just slightly off the beaten path. I had the oatmilk latte as well as their Lockwood Lemonade and would recommend both drinks. Pricing is very reasonable, and they don't charge extra for alternative milk. The employees were super helpful and kind. Will definitely be returning here. read more

Lockwood Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Ames, Iowa

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Food has always been great! I really like the crepes and the coffee is always fantastic! I service has been well, I'm not a fan of the tip before my service has been provided... read more

This is definitely one of the best coffee shops in Ames. It's in a really interesting location sorta in the middle of nowhere and the building looks like an old abandoned warehouse. The inside has concrete walls and the furniture has an old school thrifty feel that gives the place a really eclectic ambiance. They also have a wall with garage doors that gives the space a nice amount of natural light. The morningbell coffee that they serve is really nice and will be enjoyed by those who appreciate good coffee. And although I did not have the crepes, they looked amazing and will definitely need to go back to try them out. Really solid place to go for coffee and breakfast, highly recommended! read more

Lockwood Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Ames, Iowa

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Love its' eclectic appeal. Food is great! It has a very nice outdoor area too and structures for kids to climb.

Had a lovely time. It reminds me of an art colony, jn the best way possible. My sister and I had a kimcheese dosa & a masala dosa, both vegan and gluten free. I had a delicious oat milk raspberry sage latte. Staff was very nice and friendly. Will bring in my dog next time for a treat from their frat jar. Will definitely come back next time I'm in Ames! One thing to note - the building is directly next to the tracks and a train came by several times in the hour we sat outside. Not a bad thing, but just a heads up. Staff were all wearing masks still but do not require masks for patrons. read more

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Loved the artsy & industrial atmosphere at Lockwood! It was a very unique place off the beaten path in Ames, near the railroad tracks. My family & I went for crepes and coffee on a Fall Sunday morning, and the food was fantastic. We had a variety of crepes between the four of us, and all were great. It was extremely busy however, and we waited almost an hour for our food that was ordered over the counter, which was disappointing. Will have to try at a less busy time! read more

Lockwood Cafe - Apple Brie crepe and Banana Nutella crepe - Cafes Near Me - Ames, Iowa

Lockwood is located off the beaten path in Ames. I love the unique industrial vibe. I went for breakfast & ordered a crepe, which was tasty but I was just hoping for a wider breakfast selection. They have a very limited menu. As a first time customer, I would've like to have been a little more informed about Lockwood and their different menus or events. Staff were not very informative. read more

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Saying this is a hole in the wall is an understatement. This old grain elevator is a work in project to cater to Ames more artistic side of coffee enthusiasts. They use products and study techniques from multiple surrounding coffee shops. In talking to the owner for roughly 10 minutes, she brings a creative, family oriented, community serving perspective to coffee that is new to Ames. With values of preservation of green space (no parking lot, sorry!), in shop piano and guitar to play whenever, artwork scattered on the walls, the workshop in the back, and what seems to be a creative space right in the middle of the shop, Lockwood has potential to provide community to those seeking a minimalist, hippy-like lifestyle. I would love to re-visit in a few years to see what all happens here! My order consisted of a cup of espresso, a caramel breve, a chai latte, and a breakfast crepe. All of which I would recommend. Judging from the satisfaction of all items as well as others reviews and word of mouth, I conclude that Lockwood has one of the most well developed, tasty, price efficient menu's in Ames. All of this was roughly $13. Their espresso has a darker, chocolate, creamy, full bodied, oaky flavor that I LOVED. Easily in contention for best espresso in all of Ames. My breve was made perfectly. Creamy, but not over foamy. The caramel didn't take away the flavor of coffee, rather assisted and didn't overpower the drink. Not to mention the cute design on top! Other coffee shops will overpower bad coffee with sugary drinks, Lockwood does none of this. I have never had a crepe before, but what I was introduced to at Lockwood was a delicious burrito pancake like creation. How on earth haven't I had these before! Apart from the garnishing on top, I would say this is one of my new favorite foods. I'm eager to try a different option next time! Apart from the food is where my review slips from a 5 star down to a 4.5 star rounded down. I was under-impressed with the environment. Too much natural light, however I prefer a more warm den-like setting. The temperature inside was colder than I'd prefer. It felt as though someone set up a bunch of tables in a storage container and served coffee. Some really enjoy this vibe, but it was too uncomfortable for me. Their tables, floors, and bathrooms are very clean, nothing to complain there. The team that served me were mostly my friends, but after observing their interactions with customers, I'm beyond impressed with their customer service. These baristas are extremely knowledgeable and dedicated to serve the best cup of coffee possible. This is to be expected though with such a friendly and community centered owner. The location and hours of Lockwood further restrict a 5 star review. Closing at 4:30 every day and its far northwest location made every other coffee shop more convenient for 90% of Ames residents. All in all, I wish with all my heart I could give Lockwood a 5 star review. Due to the newness and unfinished feel, I can't call it perfect. This will not be my first choice of shop due to the location and setting, but boy did i enjoy everything I purchased. Consider my return an inevitable yes, but the stars will have to align. read more

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The crepes are always fresh and packed with fresh fillings/toppings. The staff are friendly and helpful. The environment is relaxed and perfect for a weekday or weekend breakfast spot. read more

Lockwood is a treasure. Deliciously strong brewed coffee, lemonade with flavored syrups, and reasonably priced crepes. The owner and staff are all wonderful and want everyone to have a positive experience. Example: customer dog on patio lurched after another dog on patio with the leash taking out a coffee on the customer's table. The owner kindly brought out a fresh coffee for the customer. Check out Lockwood for a peaceful patio experience. read more

Over the top food and service. You are welcomed with a smile. A unique setting that makes you want to come back! read more

Cute little spot at the peaceful end of a street near the train tracks. Very artsy/hipster type of vibe. My banana/granola crepe with Nutella on the side and black iced tea did not disappoint. Friendly service. I would definitely come back the next time I'm in Ames. read more

Lockwood Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Ames, Iowa

One of my favorite places to go in Ames now! I am a big fan of places that are unique and this place for sure has its own style. The interior has an industrial feel with such great natural light coming in from these big garage door style windows. The place also has a charm about it from the various plants around and art pieces on the walls. Not only is the interior quality, but the food and drinks are too! I've tried both the coffee and green tea here and both are excellent. I also appreciate the different options of milk offered (big fan of oat milk). And the crepes are delicious as well. My only complaint is I wish they were open on Sundays because I usually like to go to a coffee shop and study on that day. So if you haven't been here yet you need to check it out and my guess it will also become one of your favorite places in Ames! read more

Lockwood Cafe - Banana Nutella Crepe and a vanilla latte with oat milk - Cafes Near Me - Ames, Iowa

A super tasty, unique industrial/hippie-esque atmosphere that is perfect for a weekend brunch with a friend. The employees are friendly, accommodating, laid back, and totally accepting. For me this is the perfect brunch place; it is what I have been looking for here in Ames for 5 years! I am so not kidding or exaggerating. They specialize in vegetarian crepes (1 or more vegan crepes always available) and they do it phenomenally. The vegetables are all fresh and healthy. The vegan crepe is the masala dosa and is like all indian spicy potatoes wrapped in a vegan crepe of some kind (beyond my culinary verbiage). They have good espresso based coffee drinks, awesome employees, unique dining location in a residential neighborhood. They get pretty busy on weekends over brunch/lunch hours, but it is still worth it. I really think everyone in Ames should visit this place once at least to check it out. The crepes are just large enough to feed you. This is not the type of place you go so that you can brag "I got so much food omg i can't feel my body anymore!" I get a latte and a crepe. I leave feeling satisfied every single time. I have tried most of their crepes. Some are most definitely better than others, but I haven't had one that wasn't good. My favorites are the greek and most people that I go with have agreed that their best is the caprese. read more

Favorite coffee shop and crepe shop in Iowa! Such a warm and relaxed atmosphere, everyone was friendly and welcoming! Will return again!

A great hideaway during the week with amazing crepes and great service! Morning bell coffee is served and they love using mason jars or your own cup! I love it for a quiet spot before work. I have routine set. Vegan and Vegetarian options. Sweet and savory options. Have also gone on a Saturday and it's packed walk to wall! read more

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For the longest time I didn't think this place was real because I drove by multiple times and it just looked like some abandoned shed, but this place is real and actually really good!!! Had some crepes and coffee outside. The only thing was we were being attacked by bees outside and coffee took a bit long but will definitely return! read more

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Interesting place, I live so close and didn't know it existed. Give it a try, oh and the coffee was delicious

The crepes here were great. It is an animal friendly restaurant so you can bring your cat or dog in here and they even have treats for your pet. read more

Bohemian and I love it. The breakfast crepes had pico that set my taste buds alight with flavor. Get here early so that you can tell your friends you found it. PS get the lemonade it's really refreshing read more

this was only my second visit and i'll admit, i wasn't impressed the first time. the coffee is Morningbell Coffee so i knew i'd be getting a great drink at the very least. however, i didn't think it would be worth driving to the west side of ames when Morningbell is significantly closer to my home BUT my mind has been changed. the service at Lockwood is unmatched. my friend and i ordered the same crepe, goat cheese and mushroom, but they didn't have enough materials to make two. instead of making one of us compromise, the co-owner simply gave that one to us for free and let us order two different crepes. in total we tried the goat cheese and mushroom, caprese, banana nutella and the breakfast crepe. my other friend was not a fan of the breakfast crepe and when the co-owner saw she didn't eat it, she offered to make her a different one, free of charge. i was just blown away by how she cared about us as customers. the other crepes were very good. i would highly recommend the other three options. it's going to be a hard choice on my next visit! read more

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