The best bakeries & sweet shops in Ames

“Whether you're craving a fresh-baked Dutch Letter, a slab of Dutch Apple Bread with maple icing, or a breakfast sandwich on a flaky croissant, Van Hemert's Dutch Oven Bakery keeps Ames running on butter and espresso. Scratch-made pastries, award-winning cakes, legit lunches, and a full barista coffee bar await.”

From the Ames newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Kid-friendly chain known for baked goods, breakfasts & other standards in dinerlike digs.”

“Potter's Shoppe & Eatery is the kind of local spot that upgrades your week with handcrafted espresso, legit breakfast sandwiches on bagels or croissants, quiche, and that hearty Farmer's Breakfast. Come back at lunch for Mediterranean-inspired flatbreads and signature salads with house-made dressings.”

From the Ames newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Cozy chocolate shop also offering European chocolates, coffee, gelato, and wine.”

“This week, Great Harvest Bakery and Café is your move for crave-worthy sandwiches, fresh-baked bread, and goodies made with freshly milled 100% whole grain flour from Montana’s golden triangle. Bonus points for daily Gluten-X and vegan options... treat yourself and call it fuel.”

From the Ames newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Bakery chain known for warm cookies, ice cream & late-night deliveries.”

“For days when toast just won't cut it, Piece & Freedom Bakery is rolling out Ukrainian sweet and savory pastries plus gorgeous cakes in a cozy space with a genuinely welcoming staff. Perfect for a midweek morale boost or nabbing something impressive for book club, without turning on your oven.”

From the Ames newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Minutes from Ames, Bricktown Bakery keeps mornings easy with from-scratch donuts, flash-brewed coffee, and the kind of custom cakes that make group texts go quiet. Swing by on Fried Pie Friday for apple, peach, or pecan, then snag a bag of their small-batch gourmet popcorn for weekend snacking.”

From the Ames newsletter, September 14, 2026