Scenic Route Bakery
350 E Locust St Ste 104, Des Moines, IA
Crema's Take
“Scenic Route Bakery is a genuine Des Moines gem where exceptional pastries (think cloud-like croissants and caramel-bottomed monkey bread) meet thoughtfully crafted espresso drinks in a genuinely welcoming atmosphere. Their sun-soaked patio and spacious seating make it equally perfect for a quick solo coffee fix or lingering with friends over their standout rosemary lemonade and rotating light menu that thoughtfully includes vegan and vegetarian options. The staff's warmth and consistent quality across both drinks and baked goods has earned this spot fiercely loyal regulars who can't stop raving about it.”
What to expect
Google Reviews
I can not say enough good about this place. Always so friendly and the food is top-notch. Vegan and vegetarian options. The patio is nice to enjoy a coffee on. You have to try their rosemary lemonade.
What an amazing spot. The monkey bread was amazing. Super crisp but still extremely soft with the perfect balance of textures. I really loved the caramel bottom that added an incredible toffee like texture. I also really loved the blueberry pinwheel. Amazing layers and the filling was perfectly balanced in sweetness. The coffee was perfect. I got the honey bee and it was everything I hoped it would be. Normally I have to add more espresso to make it less sugary but this was perfect as is. Still had that bold flavor I love. The staff was nice and got everything out to us quickly. I left a tip and made sure to let them know how great the experience was. I highly recommend this place. Truly a gem in the Des Moines area.
Scenic Route Bakery is one of, if not, THE BEST bakeries in Des Moines. Their pastries were flaky with a good crunch and their fillings were flavorful but not diminishing of the wonderful pastry they were presented within. Additionally, if you have a nice home cooked dinner ahead of you, the buttermilk buns are spectacular and I would highly recommend buying a pack or two. Finally, the setting and staff are extremely friendly and willing to answer any and all questions you may have about their process.
What a great little place for coffee and scones! Or cookies and cinnamon rolls. The dough for their baked goods is like biting into a cloud😊 Their cookies are soft yet firm at the same time for that perfect balance! And their pecan rolls are caramel pecan delish! Prices are very reasonable for the quality of what you're getting. Basically, for a morning starting point, this is a great place to be!
One of the few cafes and bakeries in the area, Scenic Route has ample indoor and outdoor seating for groups of all sizes. The atmosphere is cozy and I found that the staff were really helpful and kind. I visited later in the day so most pastries and breads were already sold out! I still managed to have a “unicorn” latte (lavender), green goddess salad, cup of tomato bisque, and a peach pastry. The salad I should’ve asked for dressing on the side, as it was delicious but a bit too drenched for my tastes. I also wish more additions were available as options, other than proteins. The soup was a great surprise and I’m glad I had it! Their lattes feel generous and well-priced; I would say that their food selection may be a bit pricier than one would expect compared to their drinks. The pastry was still delicious and crispy by the time I had it in the afternoon. Overall, great place to relax and catch up with others, plenty of cozy spaces.