Iowa has its fair share of outstanding bakeries. Nearly every community has its own “best” bakeshop, but this one recently won the title of “Best In Iowa” from Buzzfeed after Yelp produced a list of the best in every state, using an algorithm that combined customer ratings and number of ratings. Is it the best in America? Well, those of us who think Iowa is the best state in America say yes, it must be.

The Cafe is located at 2616 Northridge Parkway in Ames.
Facebook/The Cafe Ames
Facebook/The Cafe Ames
They are open Monday through Thursday from 7am until 9pm, Friday and Saturday from 7am until 10pm and Sunday from 7am until 9pm. They serve breakfast between 7am and 10:45 am Monday through Friday. Lunch is served from 11am until 2pm. Dinner is 5pm until closing time.
There are 255 Yelp reviews.
Facebook/The Cafe Ames
Their average rating is 4.5 stars.
In addition to being an amazing bakery, they also are frequently called "the best restaurant in Ames" by reviewers.
Facebook/The Cafe Ames
Seasonal specials rely on The Cafe maintaining relationships with local farmers. The menu changes with availability of fresh ingredients grown close by.
The restaurant is beautiful. It's the perfect place to go for a light lunch, decadent breakfast, coffee break, or even a romantic dinner.
Facebook/The Cafe Ames
The menu may not be large, but everything on it is carefully considered so that each dish showcases the best food central Iowa has to offer.
The Cafe employs seasoned professional pastry chefs who are committed to making the best possible food for their guests.
Facebook/The Cafe Ames
They use old-world methods to create amazing pastries, breads, and sweet treats.

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All of the food is made in-house and from scratch.
Facebook/The Cafe Ames
The crew at The Cafe believes that simple food can be fun.
They also believe in the power of a perfectly displayed dessert case to tempt and delight their customers.
Facebook/The Cafe Ames
Facebook/The Cafe Ames
Facebook/The Cafe Ames
They elevate the "easy" things and aren't afraid of a challenge. Perfection is an everyday requirement, here.
People traveling in the area from far away write glowing reviews of this restaurant.
Facebook/The Cafe Ames
Facebook/The Cafe Ames
They compare it to some of the best food available in large metropolitan areas.
The only thing that may be a drawback about The Cafe is that they have many fans.
Facebook/The Cafe Ames
You may need to settle in and wait for a table, but judging from the reviews and awards, it's definitely worth the effort.

Are you convinced? It’s OK to disagree (it’s the Iowa way, after all) but please share your nomination for the “best bakeshop in America” with us in the comments.

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