Retro coffee shop opens in Lower Beaver
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Cristin and Jarrett Mitchell, co-owners of Wake Up Iowa coffee shop. Photo: Linh Ta/Axios
A colorful coffee business has expanded to the Lower Beaver neighborhood.
Driving the news: Co-owners Cristin and Jarrett Mitchell opened Wake Up Iowa Coffee shop along Douglas Avenue in October, following years of success selling their single-origin coffee beans in Iowa City.
How it started: In 2011, Jarrett helped a friend run a coffee trailer in the Iowa City area over the summer. When his friend moved away, Jarrett decided to take it over and try expanding the business.
State of play: Today, the roastery distributes to 20 stores in the Johnson County area, including Hy-Vee, Bluebird Diner and Kirkwood Community College.
- Though no stores or restaurants in Des Moines sell the coffee yet, the Mitchells hope the shop's opening will elevate their brand in the area.
The menu: Expect classic beverages, as well as unique creations like a breve made with half-and-half called the "Velvet Hammer" ($4.50) and a spicy coconut milk latte ($6).
Plus: The shop has a unique art focus.
- Jarrett studied art at the University of Iowa, and those influences touch different parts of the business, including quirky designs on the packaging.
If you go: 8am-2pm, Tues-Sat; 3605 Douglas Ave, Des Moines.
