Goumet Iowa
The Cafe is one of the best in Ames. The food is always inventive and adventurous. They use local produce if available and the best meats they can find. Sunday brunch is a treat with offerings such as eggs piperade and chai oatmeal. They offer interesting sandwiches for lunch along with a plowman's lunch, a little bit of everything in the kitchen and a lovely little baguette.    [23 Jan 2006 15:01:45]

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Recommended Dishes: Whatever is the special of the day!

     ­Susan R.   

The Best Place in Ames
Eating at The Cafe gives the eater a 5 star meal with a three star price. With a changing menu, and the chefs dedicated to perfection The Cafe is Ames' best resturant.    [27 Jan 2006 15:19:35]

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     ­Anonymous   

FABULOUS PLACE TO EAT
This has been a favorite since the first time we visited.
We've been there for all three meals and they are all wonderful.
The chocolate chip pancakes are a special treat.
The salads are very fresh and wonderful.
Soups are original and beyond words in flavor.
Sandwiches are great - take out just as good as dine in.
This is a place you should not miss!!!    [21 Apr 2006 01:18:04]

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     ­Anonymous   

This restaurant is absolutely fantastic and a cut above the norm for Iowa. We have been interested in the "slow food" approach for some time and think The Cafe has really got it perfect by using "home-grown" products with the bistro atmosphere. We tried the hummus for an appetizer the last time we were there and it was wonderful. The food was hot, the service was excellent, and great care was given to presentation. Incredible food at an affordable price!    [27 May 2006 12:58:20]

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     ­Anonymous   

What can be said about The Cafe?
It's an absolutely charming place to eat. The wait staff is helpful. The food is excellent. The drinks are exceptional and the desserts are divine. We are repete costumers, and recommend the place to anyone willing to try something new.    [31 Jul 2007 15:22:33]

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     ­Anonymous   

Great Place to eat in Ames
This is the best food in Ames. The chefs seem dedicated to providing big city cuisine at a small town price. The food is purchased from local merchants, good and fresh. The menu is based upon what is available locally.    [24 Aug 2007 06:30:31]

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Recommended Dishes: I have enjoyed all of them.

     ­Anonymous   

Disagree with the others!
My husband and I ate there for our anniversary, had steaks (which were pricey considering the amount of food we had), and they turned out to be tough and we left hungry. Perhaps meals at other times of the day would be better. The atmosphere was very nice but will probably never go again.    [01 Nov 2007 18:21:36]

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     ­Anonymous   

Great Food TOO LOUD Music
This is the best food in Ames (except for The Spice)...as a long-time resident, I've been to The Cafe numerous times. Just about as many times, I've asked for the music to be turned DOWN, no matter what genre it's been...a couple times assistant managers implied that maybe I'm too old to appreciate the volume! Sheesh, I'm 55 and still a Led Zep fan but I want to be able to speak to and hear my meal companions! More recently, when I've been given the choice, I avoid The Cafe for The Spice since they are much more 'in tune' with customer wishes for BACKGROUND music.    [02 Feb 2008 19:07:20]

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Recommended Dishes: Any salad or sandwich is great!

     ­Anonymous   

Tops!
My husband and I have dined here several times and NONE have been disappointing! The special seafood offering one evening was BETTER than the top meals I've eaten on the East Coast!    [05 Mar 2008 22:43:47]

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     ­Jan   getquiza at yahoo dot com