Paula's Cafe

At Paula's Cafe, where comfort food meets a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, guests are enveloped in a warm and inviting space. Located in West Des Moines, this charming cafe offers a tasty selection of homemade soups, comforting sandwiches, and delightful small plates. Locals rave about the friendly service and consistently outstanding food, making it a beloved hidden gem for lunch and dinner. The café prides itself on accessibility, welcoming all with ease, including those with mobility challenges. With a dedicated staff, a nostalgic diner vibe, and a menu that caters to every craving, Paula's Cafe is a must-visit for anyone seeking genuine homemade goodness.

Accessibility
- Has wheelchair-accessible car park
- Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Service options
- Offers takeaway
- Serves dine-in
- No delivery
Highlights
- Serves great coffee
Popular for
- Popular for lunch
- Popular for dinner
- Good for solo dining
Offerings
- Serves coffee
- Serves comfort food
- Quick bite
- Serves small plates
Dining options
- Serves brunch
- Serves lunch
- Serves dinner
- Has counter service
- Serves dessert
- Has seating
Amenities
- Has gender-neutral toilets
- Has toilet
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cosy
Crowd
- Family friendly
Payments
- Accepts cheques
- Accepts debit cards
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs available
- Has kids' menu
Parking
- Free of charge street parking
- Free parking lot
- Plenty of parking

Larry Early

Apr 7,2025

Was near Valley Junction today running errands and a Google search for dining options led us here. Very nice Cafe with a good offering of Comfort Food options. We both had the Maid-Rites which were very good. We enjoy supporting local establishments and will definitely be back.

Antonio DOttavio

Apr 5,2025

Best staff, fast service and as high quality as maidrite corporate locations.

Michelle Todd

Mar 22,2025

A very cool old timey diner with great prices, great food, and a laid back atmosphere. You can’t get a great sandwich anywhere nowadays for under 5. (Made-rite & pork tenderloin sandwich both 10/10 considering taste, portion, & price) Loose meat sandwich inspired me to go home & watch old episodes of Roseanne

Brittney Berget

Mar 17,2025

Paula’s is one of my favorite places to get lunch in Des Moines. Their Made Rights are fresh and delicious every time! They have great soup selection too, which you don’t always find any more. And the staff is so wonderful! They make you feel so welcome!

Emily Harter

Mar 14,2025

Great comfort food & the staff is so kind! Chicken salad sandwich and onion rings are so good! Don’t forget to order a chocolate malt. It reminded me of my grandmas! …

Caasi Heckman

Mar 6,2025

Love this place. Especially on hot beef or meatloaf special days. The Maid Rites are perfect too. It's always busy during lunchtime, so you know it's good. The specials change summer and winter. Winter are my favorites. Highly recommend!

Kyle Knight

Feb 7,2025

This review is long overdue. I have been going to Paula's Cafe for lunch for awhile now. This place is extremely wonderful. Paula and her staff are always friendly, the food is top notch, service is fast and correct. Can't say enough good things about this place. Just remember to carry cash as they don't accept credit cards! Worth a visit, you won't be disappointed.

justin west

Jan 14,2025

One of the best hidden gem lunch cafes in Des Moines. Amazing food, the ladies work hard and stay busy serving their regulars. Cash only. Worth every penny.

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