The Vault

125 Main St, Ames, IA

★★★★★4.9(114 Google reviews)

Crema's Take

“Housed in a beautifully restored old bank with original architectural details still in place, this Ames spot nails the intersection of serious espresso craft and inviting atmosphere that makes you want to linger for hours. The skilled baristas here take their pulls seriously enough to impress even the pickiest coffee snobs, while the thoughtful space, homemade pastries, and genuinely warm staff create the kind of place that feels like discovering a beloved secret. Whether you're stopping by for an expertly executed espresso or settling in with a specialty drink and homemade cookie, you'll understand why people are willing to make the drive.”

What to expect

Espresso-focused, with creative signature drinks. A slow-sit spot, good for meetings.

Signature drinksCraft espressoMeetingsSlow sitSpecialty drinksTraditional drinks

Google Reviews

Gabbryella Reis

★★★★★3 months ago

Stumbled in and it was delicious. The atmosphere is lovely, and so is the staff. Definitely coming back 🥰

Taylor Balsley

★★★★★3 months ago

Delicious tea and homemade cookies! Can't wait to try more of the food! Great little place in Gilbert!

Caleb Shaeffer

★★★★★9 months ago

I am glad we finally stopped in and we will be back. The espresso alone would be worth the trip back. I am pretty picky and snobbish when it comes to my coffee and espresso and they are doing it right. My rice bowl was tasty and my wife enjoyed her salad. Call ahead for a…

Sara

★★★★★a year ago

Lovely little spot with the cutest aesthetic and environment. This restaurant is in an old bank and all of the original floors and stands are still used which I find unique. There’s a few places to sit, you can park across the road as well. From the outside to inside it’s very…

Robyn Anderson

★★★★★2 years ago

I work close by, so eat here ALOT. Generous portions, great prices and exceptionally fresh....always. I'm one of those people that pretty much never wants it quite the way is comes, but they always accommodate my wishes, without eye-rolling about it (well, at least to my…

Christian Jackson

★★★★★4 years ago

The Vault is amazing. Don't let the location sway you from making the drive out. The place is wonderfully decorated and unique. The staff were awesome, friendly and really fun to talk to. They have a rotating menu and this week I tried Almond French Toast and Corned Beef Hash.…