This is one of my favorite places to drink and be merry. If you are a fan of soccer, this is the best place in town to have a few beers and watch a match. Personally, this is why my husband and I enjoy this place. The atmosphere is relax and the staff are nice. I highly suggest the garlic spaghetti. It's my favorite!
(4)
Laura J.
Amazing food, comfortable atmosphere, I love it! A little pricey, but worth it.
(5)
Jackie H.
Who would have thought that Ames, Iowa would be home to an amazing BRASILIAN restaurant?! I was pleasantly surprised! Come on folks, I live in SJ, where can I find good Brasilian places? Anyway, everything is Brasilian decked out, you have your soccer playing on a tv, you can get your guarana, and the food is pretty tasty. I was hoping for more of a meat selection seeing as we were in Iowa! However, I can not complain. Great food, people, service, and hot guys!
(5)
Jennifer A.
OMG you guys! This place serves the best burger in Ames! Really! Try the Brazilian burger, trust me, and then thank me later. It's a very nicely seasoned patty topped with chorizo, avocado, gouda cheese, and a fried egg. Not advised for those who like to stay neat and tidy when eating. It's messy. Oh, so, gloriously, deliciously, messy. I'm salivating just thinking about it. Fries are potato wedges with skin-on. Salted and fried to perfection. Oh, and it's a great place to watch some footy.
(5)
Matthew S.
Cafe Beaudelaire is a quaint cafe by day and a bar/social spot by night. It's a sit yourself restaurant which I always like.The menu is small and condensed but still has nice options. I ordered a lemonade and it was honestly some of the best I have ever had. I ordered a Boarder burger and it was fantastic. They have many vegetarian options too if you're into that scene. I would definitely recommend this as a lunch joint. They have a downstair area, which I did not go down to, but I imagine that this place can get packed very quickly with only a few people. As a bar/social spot, I'd steer clear because of the lack of size.
(4)
Andrew W.
Great food that is different from other Ames fare. There is a South American flare to the menu and vegetarian options. Casual, friendly service and Long Island ice teas that are worth the trip alone.
(4)
Rachel M.
A relatively sane place for a weekday lunch, but gets a bit crazy on weekend nights. Heir drinks are strong, which brings in the grad school crowd, and their fries are worth coming back for again and again.
(4)
Rex R.
Came to Ames in 1981 and have finally made to Cafe Beaudelaire. Started with Guiness which was perfect and a pao de queso which are yummy cheesy dough balls of delight. I had the Beirut with chicken which was very good. The Brasilian fries are very good and the yucca fries are excellent. I cannot wait to come back and try something else. Server was excellent as well!
(5)
Haley R.
As someone who often feels "too old" for Campustown, especially when classes are in session, it's nice to have found a grown up place on Lincoln Way. There are great beer and cocktail selections, and the food is good - although if you're getting something that comes with fries, be prepared for a small portion that will leave you wanting more. This is a wonderful place to come for lunch, for dinner, or for after work drinks with friends to last well into the night!
(5)
Scott C.
Great burgers! Could use a little more fries but since they were seasoned perfectly and the burger was so good I'll let it slide
(5)
Danielle S.
Who knew Ames had a gem, great burger, got the Spanish burger, super good and salted Carmel martini also really good...super is kind of slow so had to knock them down a star but to her then that very good
(4)
Patrick T.
If you like Soccer this is your go to spot to watch it in Ames! Also if you likes drinks, good coffee, free Wi-Fi, an excellent food you might also dig this place! I have never had a bad experience at Cafe B., only problem I have ever had is finding a seat, when it's busy! It's not the biggest place in campus town, but maybe some of the best food! Specializing in Brazilian Food, if your looking for something spicy and a little out of the norm in campus town this is a great spot! The kitchen is open pretty late 11pm, and I think you can even order Fries and different appetizers after the kitchen is closed! Which rules, cause you might want some share some garlic fries after a few brews! Note: The bathrooms are down the stairs and not handicapped accessible
(4)
Priyanka J.
A happy tummy calls for a yelp review! We were told to visit this cafe for some nice burgers. They have a few options for veggie burger, we tried black bean burger its amazing. The Brasillian fries are a must try. The Wait staff is friendly and always smiling. The cafe has unique thing with foreign currency notes displayed all along the bar.
(5)
elizabeth w.
So, the reviews can only be glowing? I stopped trying to enjoy this place. Owner acted like he was "all that", the frijolada was "chorota" (tough skins), the service too casual... and we're not the stuffy kind! My hair guy says the Long Island Tea is good. I might give the place one more try, hoping Mr. Cool isn't as cliquish as in the '90s. One thing is to be cool and different, another is to freeze out a customer who is just an occasional visitor. I'll be surprised if this is posted.
(2)
Kaitlin G.
Sooooo good! I've never had anything that wasn't delicious here. The fries, gyro, burgers, iron veggie, everything! Great atmosphere and service to top it off.
(5)
Preeti R.
so good!! i was so surprised by how veggie friendly this place was, I had endless options for brunch! the pao de queijo were so amazing, i wish there were more than 3 to an order! I ended up getting the veggie gyro which did not disappoint. they kept up with the craziness of graduation weekend-- we were served pretty quickly. I was also impressed that in iowa, beer is considered a 'topping' for bloody marys! also-- a pickle spear instead of celery is dope. next time i'm in ames i'll be sure to visit again!
(5)
Rachel Y.
My absolute favorite place to hang out on Fridays. Long islands are $6 until 8p. Also cheap on Thursdays all day as well :) the servers are great and the food is better than the average bar and restaurant.
(5)
Pat B.
So close to a 4 or higher star. The burgers were good. Gyro is decent. The long Island is worth 8 dollars. The little fancy $6 glasses of beer are not. Probably a good place to watch non American football if you know what I'm saying.
(3)
Annaliese P.
Having attended Cafe Beaudelaire both as a restaurant-goer and a bar-attender, I feel I am qualified to give this a big "meh". The food is overpriced and flavorless. The yucca fries are indeed tasty, but the serving size is pitifully small. The service you receive here is mediocre at best, and usually abysmal. The bar area itself is very small, and allows only a very small occupancy. The drinks, while strong, are pretty overpriced compared to surrounding bars, and the atmosphere is only marginally preferable.
(2)
Nicole L.
Never had the food but the long island iced teas are a must!
(4)
Kenzie T.
One of my favorite places in campustown! The environment here is great. It is a modest sized dining area, but there is a good amount of seating available spread throughout the floor that can accommodate parties of 1 to 5 people. There is also a big social-sized table if you have a large party. If you're a sports fan, this is one of the few places in Ames where you don't have to request to have the soccer matches on. There is usually a good community of people watching the matches, too. The bar is in the back and they are well stocked with some good brews. I'm definitely more of a beer drinker, but I will break for a Cafe B Long Island (long islands specials on Thursdays!). I'll also give in to a spicy bloody mary (complete with a beer back) if i'm awake early enough for brunch, and the ones here are my favorite in Ames! Speaking of brunch, the food is really what won me over. There are plenty vegetarian selections in both the brunch and dinner menus. What's also nice is if you enjoy an eclectic meal, but have a friend with more of a bland palate (we all have one...) this is a good place for balance. You can get yourself a traditional Brazilian dish, while picky eaters can get a hamburger or mushroom burger with fries. Everyone wins!
(5)
Cassidy F.
Makes a mean burger has avocado on it! What could be gross with avocado on it? I've also had the gyros multiple times and they allow jalepenos to be put on (which I love!) Has a chill environment but sometimes too chill; I've had to track down my server more than a couple times in order to get service.
(4)
Eugenio A.
Saw several World Cup games there this past summer. For the most part, impeccable service despite the loud cheers/boos and large groups. As a Paraguayan, I'll take yucca anywhere I can, so that is a plus. Good beers on tap, decent prices, and I can't say too much about the food because I only had appetizers: yucca fries and empanadas which were both good (the empanadas are overpriced in my opinion, but good). Will return to try the main dishes and update, but definitely worth a visiting again for a non-soccer event.
(4)
Sean H.
Great food and the best Long Islands ever! Perfect food portions and their fries should be the standard for which all other fries are measured against. Staff is always great and the ambience of this college town, hole in the wall establishment is alone well worth the visit. Great selection of quality beers and liquors. Drink specials every day, each well worth trying.
(5)
Rachel D.
Cafe B is always good for some Brazilian food! Get a big plate of meat and veggies or the Beirut. The drinks are pricey, but delicious. They have good mojitos and the long islands make for a fun night but rough morning. Be warned, if there's a soccer game on, the place may be a little full!
(5)
Kate D.
I have tried spicy Bloody Marys at nearly every restaurant I've been to, and this is by far my favorite in town! So good! Sunday mornings/early afternoons with Brazilian fries and spicy Bloody Marys are the best. The atmosphere and usual crowd also makes it my favorite place on Welch to drink! They have great burgers and gyros. It's a great place to watch soccer games with a group of friends. I'd highly suggest stopping by for a game - or just to have a Bloody Mary or one of their fabulous Long Island Iced Teas.
(5)
Todd M.
Went for lunch. Friendly staff . Diverse menu. Would go again.
(5)
Joe S.
I've eaten at this restaurant for five years. I have not had a single negative experience at this restaurant since my time as a freshman. The waitresses are kind, considerate, and work so hard to make your dining experience pleasurable. The employees are kind and helpful and would do anything to help any mistake or miscalculation. The food is unbelievable, the drinks are cheap and well made, and the service is top notch. I'd recommend this restaurant for any Ames resident or visitor.
(5)
Evan M.
A cafe specializing in Brazilian and otherwise Spanish fare. Most of the seating is fairly intimate, definitely focuses on parties of 2-4 rather than big groups (although there is at least one table to seat 6-8). I had the Spanish burger, which featured grilled peppers/onions, a fried egg, and a paprika mayonnaise. The burger was excellent, tender yet flavorful, and the Brazilian fries that came with it (thick cut potato wedges served with a mayonnaise dipping sauce) were memorable as well. All in all a nice place to get lunch, and their specials throughout the week are also a reason to drop by early and often!
(5)
Dev B.
We've been watching the World Cup games here on the big screen, although I've been coming here to lunch with co-workers and friends for over two years. Favorite food items are the iron veggie skillet, the breakfast bauru with vegetarian patty, and garlic fries with spicy mayo. Favorite drinks are the caipirinha and the orangecello (not on the menu; wonderful aperitif). Nick, who bartends, is a super-nice guy, and the servers are incredibly helpful even when it gets very busy. Duncan is a good cook and comes out to talk to his guests. One of the nicer places to relax in Ames.
(5)
M C.
Favorite bar in Ames. Always great beer on draught. French fries are unbeatable. The black bean sandwich with an egg in it is solid. Great atmosphere.
(5)
Brian F.
Was a little unsure of this place going in. It is small, was pretty empty, and a definite odor coming upstairs from the bathroom. That said, I am sooooo glad that I chose to stay. The food is absolutely amazing. If my review was based just on food, it would be a 5 star. The sewage odor made it a 4 star.
(4)
Jake M.
I enjoyed a delicious lamb burger with Brasilian (Yucca) Fries, both were great! They had a lot to offer and the staff was good. It is a bit small and can feel crowded.
(5)
Ravi R.
This place rocks for local flavor when it comes to bars...Its a chill spot to catch with friends, pick up new one or dance the night away after downing many tasty Long Islands... its know for those. I had two one night made it to the next bar and was trashes...many great stories came from the night... but no seriously drinks are good and cheap.. and in Ames that's all the matters. Oh and if you get a window table to sit at... very great place to check out the local student co-ed's... they'll all walk by at one point during the night...
A British friend of mine was passing through the midwest on business this spring and ended up in Ames for an evening. I messaged him and suggested he go to Cafe Beaudelaire for dinner. He did and loved it. I'm so glad he was able to confirm that they still offer great food. He sent me pictures and even posted a selfie on Facebook to prove he was there and enjoying his dinner. I'm so glad I was able to steer him to a great restaurant in a city that was strange to him. He loved the food and atmosphere and it was a high point in his journey.
(5)
Thao P.
Before I was of age, I would come here for their freshly squeezed juices because I liked them a lot, although they are pretty expensive. I highly recommend the orange, mango, or basically all of them. It's usually very crowded here on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. During the daytime, it's a nice restaurant and after hours, it's 21+. This place is one of the only places in Campustown that attracts more grad students and international students/people of color which makes it a bit more inclusive than other establishments in campustown. Food- Eat the Brazillian fries! They give you a special mayo sauce to dip them with. I love the burgers that have fried eggs and a special spicy mayo with paprika on the bun. I've also tried the Spinach and Cheese Empanadas. This place is veggie-friendly because you can substitute any burger with a black bean burger along with other options. Drinks- The drink menu is great. They have a few Brazillian drinks as well. My favorite drinks are: -Long Islands ($5 special on Thursdays) - Iguana Wanna - Tootsie Roll Shots
(4)
Tony R.
It was my first time in Ames. At the recommendation of another patron (whom I didn't know) I ordered a mojito. Bingo! A great idea for my last drink of the night as the bartender called 'last call'... she made it just right. The staff was great, and such a pleasant environment for a Thursday night in Ames.
Ames has its share of unique eateries, but Cafe Beaudelaire is a gem in this beloved college town! It's become one of our favorite local places to eat for so many reasons. The atmosphere is comfortable (with an interesting painting featuring the Brazilian flag), the service has always been impeccable, and the food makes this place a stand-out among the restaurants in Ames. Even though other places may have higher ratings on other sites, I consider Cafe B among the top three. I have tried a few different dishes, including the gyro, all of the burgers on the list (The current special, Chipotle Burger is one of THE BEST burgers I've ever had), and the feijoada. I'm not a fan of gyros, but if this is your thing, I recommend trying it. If you're a burger lover like me, you MUST try this place. The meat is juicy, and each burger has unique flavors that make your mouth water. The fries are meaty, and just enough (don't expect an enormous plate of fries). The use of paprika and other spices never disappoints. And, if you like your food spicy, you'll be sweating in no time with the fresh raw jalapenos they add to your dish. The feijoada is a unique find here in Ames. This is a well-balanced, hearty dish with layers of flavors to satisfy any palate. Give it a try! Cafe B also has a great selection of beer. If you're looking for a great place to have delicious food, great beer, and a relaxed atmosphere right in the heart of Campus Town, do yourself a favor and stop in. No need to dress up. You won't be disappointed.
(5)
Terin C.
I didn't eat here. I can make no claims or comments as to the menu of food, or the prices therein. I will, however, say that the idea of "authenticity" doesn't matter so much to me. Food is food. If it tastes good and isn't made out of sub par ingredients, why not just take it for what it is? Brazilian, American, Bramerican... just eat it, or go somewhere else for authenticity if it bothers you so bad. Having gotten that mini rant out of the way, I did drink here. I distinctly remember the long island ice tea being particularly strong as I pretty much checked out of coherency after drinking one of them. From there, I believe I went on to praise the waitress for her beauty and kindness. To be fair, she was, in fact, very pretty and kind. Unless I dreamt it, her sister had come in with a plate of christmas treats which she decided to share with my friends and me. The couple that my boyfriend and and I were hanging out with that night were regulars at this place, so it could have been a customer loyalty thing. I still think it was rather nice of her. I also think I might have just managed to duck before hitting my head on the weirdly low ceiling over the stairs that led to the bathroom. I also may have hit my head. My memory fails me in regards to this, but in either case... I thought it to be a bit strange. Take that with a grain of salt, however, because I was admittedly a bit drunk. To drive the point home, I'm pretty sure I yelled something to the effect of, "I get it! I hate LA now!" Which, though it was not exactly a true representation of my feelings or attitude toward my city, received a resounding cheer and round of applause from my companions and the nearer by tables. Clearly, I am remembering this night quite theatrically. I might have just imagined all this as I lay wide mouthed with my cheek on the table. Anyhow, to recap: nice service, strong drinks, low ceilings. Fun night.
(4)
Chris B.
I adore this place. Service can be a little slow at times (it really depends on your server) and the portion sizes for some things (like fries) can be a little on the small side for how much you are paying. On the flip side, it's a really fun place with absolutely delicious food. There are items on their menu (like the Beaudelaire Bauru) that are amazing. Being a Brazilian Cafe means that they tend to have some items that you simply cannot find in other places.
This place was.. so-so. Didn't knock my socks off. Felt a little expensive for what we got.
(3)
Katie B.
So I went with high expectations of this place. Honestly, it sucked big time. While the food was actually okay (the Bauru? sandwich was pretty good), the service was terrible. And I actually mean terrible. We went when it wasn't even that busy, it was a Wednesday early afternoon, maybe only one other table was sat at the same time. And yet the service was terrible, the waitress was a total (sorry for my language but a total B****). She acted as if she was doing us a favor by serving us. I don't recall her name, but she seemed a bit on the older side, skinny, brown tied up hair in a pony tail. It's a shame because the food wasn't that bad, but because of their service, I would never go back nor recommend this place to any of my friends.
(1)
James W.
I keep trying this place and I can't figure out what the allure is... Nothing special with bland food and very pricy. I hate going out to lunch and spending $15.00 for a chicken sandwich. Don't forget that the French-fries they offer with each sandwich costs extra!
(3)
Chelsea M.
I asked the presumed owner if this was his place and he said "it's ours." and smiled. "and it's his," and pointed to one of the regulars. I could get lost here. There is a full bar, and even in the middle of the day, it is bustling. My cappuccino was one of the best I've had in a good while and was beautiful.
(3)
Samantha C.
Best margarita I've had in a long, long time. Not only did it taste perfect, but it was HUGE, and only $4. Can't get much better than that. Food was very tasty. Both burgers had a Brazilian twist and the fries were crispy and hot. Inside is a little cramped, but if you get there when it's not crowded be sure to get a seat near the window.
(5)
Megan M.
I'm not the biggest fan of Cafe Beaudelaire. I tend to stay far away from Welch in the evenings, so my review is just of the food. To me, the food is oversalted (but at least it's fairly priced). It could be my personal problem because I don't care much for fried eggs (which come on almost everything). I usually get their garlic spaghetti, which is actually quite bland compared to the rest of the salty menu. However, I do like the fries. Nice, thick cut wedges...still too salty, but you can brush the crystals off. The owner is really nice as are the waitstaff and I wish I could give the food a better review because of it. They have a lot of tables in their tiny space and most of these tables are pretty small. There's one larger table that seats 8 or so, but it can be difficult to get this table if you're a larger group. However, being a fan of soccer, I LOVE that it's on TV most of the time here. When it's not soccer, generally you can catch a rugby match and I've even seen cricket on occasion.
(2)
Eric G.
I haven't tried the food here, so I can only speak to the bar after 9pm. Cafe B is an absolute Ames classic. It's the only place we come to when in Ames. The atmosphere is great because it's sophisticated (by Welch Ave standards), yet not pretentious. Everyone is having an good ol' time once those Long Islands hit, and they hit hard...
(5)
Rosa K.
Tastey creative food, awesome drinks, and decent service. Could use some updating and remodeling. And a tad bit pricey for on campus.
A nice retreat from the other campustown bars, and also a great spot to grab lunch. Their smoothies are also exceptional.
(4)
Mike R.
I've never had the food here, but I've been there for the "nightlife" many of times. For me, it's my favorite bar in Ames. If you don't want to be around a bunch of annoying loud stupid hicks, go here. They have good drinks too and it's pretty relaxed.
(5)
Bar C.
This place is a great place to go for a beer, scotch, burger, etc... The signature burger is outstanding and full of flavor. They have great drink specials and I just like the feel of the bar/restaurant. If you're in Ames, this place is a must visit. I have only had the burgers but my daughter liked the pasta dish.
(5)
Brent E.
I love Cafe Beaudelaire! Ames is not a place I'd recommend anyone visit, but if you find yourself there, you won't find a better place to spend an evening. Drinks are affordable, and they just might make the best Long Island in the known universe. I pretty much lived in the Cafe for 2 years. It's the kind of place that rewards being a regular. After a few visits everyone will figure out your name, and before you know it you'll be part of the in crowd. When I was there they didn't have a TV in the place (that may have changed by now), so it really encouraged conversation, dancing, and people watching at the big window in front. They're open all day with cheap coffee and big tables, so it's a great place for students to hang out and get some work done before the drinking starts at night.
(5)
Drew B.
had the beirut and it tasted great.
(4)
Joshua M.
Pretty good spot to drink and hang out. Limited menu, but everything I've tried is good
(4)
Long B.
I asked my friend, where do all the kids go in Ames? He had this place in mind, and it's literally located next to the campus. Very easy to find. Since it's still winter in Ames at the time, there were mounds of snow and deep watered slush, so try to park as close as you can by the sidewalk. Otherwise find yourself holding yourself on the edge of the car and jump to a non slushy part. Walking in, it's a very dimly lit joint with lots of college students socializing amongst themselves. Seating is extremely limited, as this place is a small, yet comfortable joint. The only available seating was at the bar, which was adorned with currency from around the world stapled on any open spot on the bar. Apparently a patron knows the owner of the bar, and gave some money they have obtain from their travels is the story behind it. The menu itself is quite interested. They are laminated rectangular menus binded to a metal chrome ring. To best describe it, go into a hardware store and it's similar to paint/carpet/tile setup. It's fairly easy and has some interesting Brazilian appetizers and main course meals. One thing I found annoying was, that the menu wasn't clean and I got some random sticky residue on my hands. Hopefully they take note and wipe them down clean. I ordered a Spanish Burger and they happened to have a Boulevard Wheat, a local KC beer I enjoy. The Bartender who took our order was very nice and knowledgeable of the menu items. The time it took to get our food was in the normal range of 15-20 minutes. Plenty of time to catch up with my friends. Once we got our food, I was pleased how well plated the food was. The only thing I didn't really like was the Paprika that was on top of the bun. It makes it quite messy to eat when it's all over your hands. Overall, the burger itself was cooked perfectly and the meat was tender, juicy and very good. So if you're wanting a local favorite, and not the obvious chain places that surround Ames, give Cafe Beaudelaire a try.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : No Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Mandi L.
This is one of my favorite places to drink and be merry. If you are a fan of soccer, this is the best place in town to have a few beers and watch a match. Personally, this is why my husband and I enjoy this place. The atmosphere is relax and the staff are nice. I highly suggest the garlic spaghetti. It's my favorite!
(4)Laura J.
Amazing food, comfortable atmosphere, I love it! A little pricey, but worth it.
(5)Jackie H.
Who would have thought that Ames, Iowa would be home to an amazing BRASILIAN restaurant?! I was pleasantly surprised! Come on folks, I live in SJ, where can I find good Brasilian places? Anyway, everything is Brasilian decked out, you have your soccer playing on a tv, you can get your guarana, and the food is pretty tasty. I was hoping for more of a meat selection seeing as we were in Iowa! However, I can not complain. Great food, people, service, and hot guys!
(5)Jennifer A.
OMG you guys! This place serves the best burger in Ames! Really! Try the Brazilian burger, trust me, and then thank me later. It's a very nicely seasoned patty topped with chorizo, avocado, gouda cheese, and a fried egg. Not advised for those who like to stay neat and tidy when eating. It's messy. Oh, so, gloriously, deliciously, messy. I'm salivating just thinking about it. Fries are potato wedges with skin-on. Salted and fried to perfection. Oh, and it's a great place to watch some footy.
(5)Matthew S.
Cafe Beaudelaire is a quaint cafe by day and a bar/social spot by night. It's a sit yourself restaurant which I always like.The menu is small and condensed but still has nice options. I ordered a lemonade and it was honestly some of the best I have ever had. I ordered a Boarder burger and it was fantastic. They have many vegetarian options too if you're into that scene. I would definitely recommend this as a lunch joint. They have a downstair area, which I did not go down to, but I imagine that this place can get packed very quickly with only a few people. As a bar/social spot, I'd steer clear because of the lack of size.
(4)Andrew W.
Great food that is different from other Ames fare. There is a South American flare to the menu and vegetarian options. Casual, friendly service and Long Island ice teas that are worth the trip alone.
(4)Rachel M.
A relatively sane place for a weekday lunch, but gets a bit crazy on weekend nights. Heir drinks are strong, which brings in the grad school crowd, and their fries are worth coming back for again and again.
(4)Rex R.
Came to Ames in 1981 and have finally made to Cafe Beaudelaire. Started with Guiness which was perfect and a pao de queso which are yummy cheesy dough balls of delight. I had the Beirut with chicken which was very good. The Brasilian fries are very good and the yucca fries are excellent. I cannot wait to come back and try something else. Server was excellent as well!
(5)Haley R.
As someone who often feels "too old" for Campustown, especially when classes are in session, it's nice to have found a grown up place on Lincoln Way. There are great beer and cocktail selections, and the food is good - although if you're getting something that comes with fries, be prepared for a small portion that will leave you wanting more. This is a wonderful place to come for lunch, for dinner, or for after work drinks with friends to last well into the night!
(5)Scott C.
Great burgers! Could use a little more fries but since they were seasoned perfectly and the burger was so good I'll let it slide
(5)Danielle S.
Who knew Ames had a gem, great burger, got the Spanish burger, super good and salted Carmel martini also really good...super is kind of slow so had to knock them down a star but to her then that very good
(4)Patrick T.
If you like Soccer this is your go to spot to watch it in Ames! Also if you likes drinks, good coffee, free Wi-Fi, an excellent food you might also dig this place! I have never had a bad experience at Cafe B., only problem I have ever had is finding a seat, when it's busy! It's not the biggest place in campus town, but maybe some of the best food! Specializing in Brazilian Food, if your looking for something spicy and a little out of the norm in campus town this is a great spot! The kitchen is open pretty late 11pm, and I think you can even order Fries and different appetizers after the kitchen is closed! Which rules, cause you might want some share some garlic fries after a few brews! Note: The bathrooms are down the stairs and not handicapped accessible
(4)Priyanka J.
A happy tummy calls for a yelp review! We were told to visit this cafe for some nice burgers. They have a few options for veggie burger, we tried black bean burger its amazing. The Brasillian fries are a must try. The Wait staff is friendly and always smiling. The cafe has unique thing with foreign currency notes displayed all along the bar.
(5)elizabeth w.
So, the reviews can only be glowing? I stopped trying to enjoy this place. Owner acted like he was "all that", the frijolada was "chorota" (tough skins), the service too casual... and we're not the stuffy kind! My hair guy says the Long Island Tea is good. I might give the place one more try, hoping Mr. Cool isn't as cliquish as in the '90s. One thing is to be cool and different, another is to freeze out a customer who is just an occasional visitor. I'll be surprised if this is posted.
(2)Kaitlin G.
Sooooo good! I've never had anything that wasn't delicious here. The fries, gyro, burgers, iron veggie, everything! Great atmosphere and service to top it off.
(5)Preeti R.
so good!! i was so surprised by how veggie friendly this place was, I had endless options for brunch! the pao de queijo were so amazing, i wish there were more than 3 to an order! I ended up getting the veggie gyro which did not disappoint. they kept up with the craziness of graduation weekend-- we were served pretty quickly. I was also impressed that in iowa, beer is considered a 'topping' for bloody marys! also-- a pickle spear instead of celery is dope. next time i'm in ames i'll be sure to visit again!
(5)Rachel Y.
My absolute favorite place to hang out on Fridays. Long islands are $6 until 8p. Also cheap on Thursdays all day as well :) the servers are great and the food is better than the average bar and restaurant.
(5)Pat B.
So close to a 4 or higher star. The burgers were good. Gyro is decent. The long Island is worth 8 dollars. The little fancy $6 glasses of beer are not. Probably a good place to watch non American football if you know what I'm saying.
(3)Annaliese P.
Having attended Cafe Beaudelaire both as a restaurant-goer and a bar-attender, I feel I am qualified to give this a big "meh". The food is overpriced and flavorless. The yucca fries are indeed tasty, but the serving size is pitifully small. The service you receive here is mediocre at best, and usually abysmal. The bar area itself is very small, and allows only a very small occupancy. The drinks, while strong, are pretty overpriced compared to surrounding bars, and the atmosphere is only marginally preferable.
(2)Nicole L.
Never had the food but the long island iced teas are a must!
(4)Kenzie T.
One of my favorite places in campustown! The environment here is great. It is a modest sized dining area, but there is a good amount of seating available spread throughout the floor that can accommodate parties of 1 to 5 people. There is also a big social-sized table if you have a large party. If you're a sports fan, this is one of the few places in Ames where you don't have to request to have the soccer matches on. There is usually a good community of people watching the matches, too. The bar is in the back and they are well stocked with some good brews. I'm definitely more of a beer drinker, but I will break for a Cafe B Long Island (long islands specials on Thursdays!). I'll also give in to a spicy bloody mary (complete with a beer back) if i'm awake early enough for brunch, and the ones here are my favorite in Ames! Speaking of brunch, the food is really what won me over. There are plenty vegetarian selections in both the brunch and dinner menus. What's also nice is if you enjoy an eclectic meal, but have a friend with more of a bland palate (we all have one...) this is a good place for balance. You can get yourself a traditional Brazilian dish, while picky eaters can get a hamburger or mushroom burger with fries. Everyone wins!
(5)Cassidy F.
Makes a mean burger has avocado on it! What could be gross with avocado on it? I've also had the gyros multiple times and they allow jalepenos to be put on (which I love!) Has a chill environment but sometimes too chill; I've had to track down my server more than a couple times in order to get service.
(4)Eugenio A.
Saw several World Cup games there this past summer. For the most part, impeccable service despite the loud cheers/boos and large groups. As a Paraguayan, I'll take yucca anywhere I can, so that is a plus. Good beers on tap, decent prices, and I can't say too much about the food because I only had appetizers: yucca fries and empanadas which were both good (the empanadas are overpriced in my opinion, but good). Will return to try the main dishes and update, but definitely worth a visiting again for a non-soccer event.
(4)Sean H.
Great food and the best Long Islands ever! Perfect food portions and their fries should be the standard for which all other fries are measured against. Staff is always great and the ambience of this college town, hole in the wall establishment is alone well worth the visit. Great selection of quality beers and liquors. Drink specials every day, each well worth trying.
(5)Rachel D.
Cafe B is always good for some Brazilian food! Get a big plate of meat and veggies or the Beirut. The drinks are pricey, but delicious. They have good mojitos and the long islands make for a fun night but rough morning. Be warned, if there's a soccer game on, the place may be a little full!
(5)Kate D.
I have tried spicy Bloody Marys at nearly every restaurant I've been to, and this is by far my favorite in town! So good! Sunday mornings/early afternoons with Brazilian fries and spicy Bloody Marys are the best. The atmosphere and usual crowd also makes it my favorite place on Welch to drink! They have great burgers and gyros. It's a great place to watch soccer games with a group of friends. I'd highly suggest stopping by for a game - or just to have a Bloody Mary or one of their fabulous Long Island Iced Teas.
(5)Todd M.
Went for lunch. Friendly staff . Diverse menu. Would go again.
(5)Joe S.
I've eaten at this restaurant for five years. I have not had a single negative experience at this restaurant since my time as a freshman. The waitresses are kind, considerate, and work so hard to make your dining experience pleasurable. The employees are kind and helpful and would do anything to help any mistake or miscalculation. The food is unbelievable, the drinks are cheap and well made, and the service is top notch. I'd recommend this restaurant for any Ames resident or visitor.
(5)Evan M.
A cafe specializing in Brazilian and otherwise Spanish fare. Most of the seating is fairly intimate, definitely focuses on parties of 2-4 rather than big groups (although there is at least one table to seat 6-8). I had the Spanish burger, which featured grilled peppers/onions, a fried egg, and a paprika mayonnaise. The burger was excellent, tender yet flavorful, and the Brazilian fries that came with it (thick cut potato wedges served with a mayonnaise dipping sauce) were memorable as well. All in all a nice place to get lunch, and their specials throughout the week are also a reason to drop by early and often!
(5)Dev B.
We've been watching the World Cup games here on the big screen, although I've been coming here to lunch with co-workers and friends for over two years. Favorite food items are the iron veggie skillet, the breakfast bauru with vegetarian patty, and garlic fries with spicy mayo. Favorite drinks are the caipirinha and the orangecello (not on the menu; wonderful aperitif). Nick, who bartends, is a super-nice guy, and the servers are incredibly helpful even when it gets very busy. Duncan is a good cook and comes out to talk to his guests. One of the nicer places to relax in Ames.
(5)M C.
Favorite bar in Ames. Always great beer on draught. French fries are unbeatable. The black bean sandwich with an egg in it is solid. Great atmosphere.
(5)Brian F.
Was a little unsure of this place going in. It is small, was pretty empty, and a definite odor coming upstairs from the bathroom. That said, I am sooooo glad that I chose to stay. The food is absolutely amazing. If my review was based just on food, it would be a 5 star. The sewage odor made it a 4 star.
(4)Jake M.
I enjoyed a delicious lamb burger with Brasilian (Yucca) Fries, both were great! They had a lot to offer and the staff was good. It is a bit small and can feel crowded.
(5)Ravi R.
This place rocks for local flavor when it comes to bars...Its a chill spot to catch with friends, pick up new one or dance the night away after downing many tasty Long Islands... its know for those. I had two one night made it to the next bar and was trashes...many great stories came from the night... but no seriously drinks are good and cheap.. and in Ames that's all the matters. Oh and if you get a window table to sit at... very great place to check out the local student co-ed's... they'll all walk by at one point during the night...
(5)H H.
Caipirinhas! Yay!
(5)Daniel L.
This Brasilian restaurant is one of the more popular hangout spots in Ames where people meet and congregate over food and drinks. The dive-like squared shaped interior encompasses a row of tables stacked next to the windows and a full bar with flags of many countries to render the feel of an international fare. Some people refer to their cuisine as "ethnic" and it's one of the few places that contribute to the nightlife that many consider lacking in Ames. Their menu consists of majority salads, burgers and sandwiches. My friends and I decided to share an order of Cheese Empanadas ($4) which included two fried empanadas with mozzarella, cheddar, muenster, and parmesan embedded. The overall texture and taste was okay for a dish that requires minimum preparation and execution. One of the empanadas had plenty of gooey cheeses but the other was a shell hollow in the middle. We complained it to the server and she responded with a shrug, vaguely apologized, and smiled. I expected a Brazilian meal so I ordered the Feijoada Simple ($11.95). Feijoada is Brasil's national dish but the server hardly knew how to pronounce the word. The dish came with black beans, basmati rice, sautéed onions, tomatoes, garlic, collard greens, grilled pork tenderloin, Portuguese sausage, farofa, salsa, and a hardboiled egg strangely served without the yolk. I asked for them to hold the bacon and they were very nice to add more rice to fill my plate to the brim. It turns out that the entire dish fell flat, bland, and without much flavor. The black beans lacked the deep smoky meaty aroma and the pork tenderloin turned out dry. All the ingredients were layered on top of each other but there wasn't anything in this dish that stood out to bring depth or string the flavors together. As the most expensive dish on the menu, portion was fabulous but the taste, price, and value were not. I'm usually swept away by a smokin' Feijoada and on this visit I didn't finish it. My friend has been having trouble getting into the bar because their manager would not honor her U.S. State Department issued green card as a valid ID. When we were dining she proceeded to show the servers her green card as a method to avoid future problems but the two servers looked confused and couldn't give her a definitive answer. It became apparent that they had questions about her country of origin rather than to use it as method to verify her drinking age. This is quite ironic given the ownership and pride in providing an international fare. One noticeable benefit is their free wifi but the drinking atmosphere does not make this place conducive for studying. Overall, the disparities between Cafe B and the places I've previously visited were vast for me to consider a higher rating. Interested diners looking for authentic Brasilian cuisine will be disappointed.
(1)Mollie F.
A British friend of mine was passing through the midwest on business this spring and ended up in Ames for an evening. I messaged him and suggested he go to Cafe Beaudelaire for dinner. He did and loved it. I'm so glad he was able to confirm that they still offer great food. He sent me pictures and even posted a selfie on Facebook to prove he was there and enjoying his dinner. I'm so glad I was able to steer him to a great restaurant in a city that was strange to him. He loved the food and atmosphere and it was a high point in his journey.
(5)Thao P.
Before I was of age, I would come here for their freshly squeezed juices because I liked them a lot, although they are pretty expensive. I highly recommend the orange, mango, or basically all of them. It's usually very crowded here on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. During the daytime, it's a nice restaurant and after hours, it's 21+. This place is one of the only places in Campustown that attracts more grad students and international students/people of color which makes it a bit more inclusive than other establishments in campustown. Food- Eat the Brazillian fries! They give you a special mayo sauce to dip them with. I love the burgers that have fried eggs and a special spicy mayo with paprika on the bun. I've also tried the Spinach and Cheese Empanadas. This place is veggie-friendly because you can substitute any burger with a black bean burger along with other options. Drinks- The drink menu is great. They have a few Brazillian drinks as well. My favorite drinks are: -Long Islands ($5 special on Thursdays) - Iguana Wanna - Tootsie Roll Shots
(4)Tony R.
It was my first time in Ames. At the recommendation of another patron (whom I didn't know) I ordered a mojito. Bingo! A great idea for my last drink of the night as the bartender called 'last call'... she made it just right. The staff was great, and such a pleasant environment for a Thursday night in Ames.
(4)Glené M.
Ames has its share of unique eateries, but Cafe Beaudelaire is a gem in this beloved college town! It's become one of our favorite local places to eat for so many reasons. The atmosphere is comfortable (with an interesting painting featuring the Brazilian flag), the service has always been impeccable, and the food makes this place a stand-out among the restaurants in Ames. Even though other places may have higher ratings on other sites, I consider Cafe B among the top three. I have tried a few different dishes, including the gyro, all of the burgers on the list (The current special, Chipotle Burger is one of THE BEST burgers I've ever had), and the feijoada. I'm not a fan of gyros, but if this is your thing, I recommend trying it. If you're a burger lover like me, you MUST try this place. The meat is juicy, and each burger has unique flavors that make your mouth water. The fries are meaty, and just enough (don't expect an enormous plate of fries). The use of paprika and other spices never disappoints. And, if you like your food spicy, you'll be sweating in no time with the fresh raw jalapenos they add to your dish. The feijoada is a unique find here in Ames. This is a well-balanced, hearty dish with layers of flavors to satisfy any palate. Give it a try! Cafe B also has a great selection of beer. If you're looking for a great place to have delicious food, great beer, and a relaxed atmosphere right in the heart of Campus Town, do yourself a favor and stop in. No need to dress up. You won't be disappointed.
(5)Terin C.
I didn't eat here. I can make no claims or comments as to the menu of food, or the prices therein. I will, however, say that the idea of "authenticity" doesn't matter so much to me. Food is food. If it tastes good and isn't made out of sub par ingredients, why not just take it for what it is? Brazilian, American, Bramerican... just eat it, or go somewhere else for authenticity if it bothers you so bad. Having gotten that mini rant out of the way, I did drink here. I distinctly remember the long island ice tea being particularly strong as I pretty much checked out of coherency after drinking one of them. From there, I believe I went on to praise the waitress for her beauty and kindness. To be fair, she was, in fact, very pretty and kind. Unless I dreamt it, her sister had come in with a plate of christmas treats which she decided to share with my friends and me. The couple that my boyfriend and and I were hanging out with that night were regulars at this place, so it could have been a customer loyalty thing. I still think it was rather nice of her. I also think I might have just managed to duck before hitting my head on the weirdly low ceiling over the stairs that led to the bathroom. I also may have hit my head. My memory fails me in regards to this, but in either case... I thought it to be a bit strange. Take that with a grain of salt, however, because I was admittedly a bit drunk. To drive the point home, I'm pretty sure I yelled something to the effect of, "I get it! I hate LA now!" Which, though it was not exactly a true representation of my feelings or attitude toward my city, received a resounding cheer and round of applause from my companions and the nearer by tables. Clearly, I am remembering this night quite theatrically. I might have just imagined all this as I lay wide mouthed with my cheek on the table. Anyhow, to recap: nice service, strong drinks, low ceilings. Fun night.
(4)Chris B.
I adore this place. Service can be a little slow at times (it really depends on your server) and the portion sizes for some things (like fries) can be a little on the small side for how much you are paying. On the flip side, it's a really fun place with absolutely delicious food. There are items on their menu (like the Beaudelaire Bauru) that are amazing. Being a Brazilian Cafe means that they tend to have some items that you simply cannot find in other places.
(5)Larissa H.
Café Beaudelaire is an amazing place to go when you are looking for some food which looks like Brazilian food. There are a lot of options for you to choose, like cheese empanadas that look like Brazilians " pasteis"; beans with salt similar to beans from Brazil; as well as "feijoada", this is a soup with black beans plus bacon and pepperoni; rice and beans; fresh juice ( orange, strawberry, lemon, and other flavors); and other amazing things. This place can offer for you a lot things, such as good food for dinner or lunch, alcohol drinks or fresh juices or pop, good service, and fun. About the prices, it's not too expensive and not too cheap, maybe a word to define it is accessible for all people. There have just one problem, space. It is smaller. A lot of times there isn't a place to sit, or don't have space enough for walk of place to other without bumping into someone. It`s located near Iowa State University, as you can see of address above. This place is some better places for to go in Ames, worth knowing!
(4)Bela S.
This place was.. so-so. Didn't knock my socks off. Felt a little expensive for what we got.
(3)Katie B.
So I went with high expectations of this place. Honestly, it sucked big time. While the food was actually okay (the Bauru? sandwich was pretty good), the service was terrible. And I actually mean terrible. We went when it wasn't even that busy, it was a Wednesday early afternoon, maybe only one other table was sat at the same time. And yet the service was terrible, the waitress was a total (sorry for my language but a total B****). She acted as if she was doing us a favor by serving us. I don't recall her name, but she seemed a bit on the older side, skinny, brown tied up hair in a pony tail. It's a shame because the food wasn't that bad, but because of their service, I would never go back nor recommend this place to any of my friends.
(1)James W.
I keep trying this place and I can't figure out what the allure is... Nothing special with bland food and very pricy. I hate going out to lunch and spending $15.00 for a chicken sandwich. Don't forget that the French-fries they offer with each sandwich costs extra!
(3)Chelsea M.
I asked the presumed owner if this was his place and he said "it's ours." and smiled. "and it's his," and pointed to one of the regulars. I could get lost here. There is a full bar, and even in the middle of the day, it is bustling. My cappuccino was one of the best I've had in a good while and was beautiful.
(3)Samantha C.
Best margarita I've had in a long, long time. Not only did it taste perfect, but it was HUGE, and only $4. Can't get much better than that. Food was very tasty. Both burgers had a Brazilian twist and the fries were crispy and hot. Inside is a little cramped, but if you get there when it's not crowded be sure to get a seat near the window.
(5)Megan M.
I'm not the biggest fan of Cafe Beaudelaire. I tend to stay far away from Welch in the evenings, so my review is just of the food. To me, the food is oversalted (but at least it's fairly priced). It could be my personal problem because I don't care much for fried eggs (which come on almost everything). I usually get their garlic spaghetti, which is actually quite bland compared to the rest of the salty menu. However, I do like the fries. Nice, thick cut wedges...still too salty, but you can brush the crystals off. The owner is really nice as are the waitstaff and I wish I could give the food a better review because of it. They have a lot of tables in their tiny space and most of these tables are pretty small. There's one larger table that seats 8 or so, but it can be difficult to get this table if you're a larger group. However, being a fan of soccer, I LOVE that it's on TV most of the time here. When it's not soccer, generally you can catch a rugby match and I've even seen cricket on occasion.
(2)Eric G.
I haven't tried the food here, so I can only speak to the bar after 9pm. Cafe B is an absolute Ames classic. It's the only place we come to when in Ames. The atmosphere is great because it's sophisticated (by Welch Ave standards), yet not pretentious. Everyone is having an good ol' time once those Long Islands hit, and they hit hard...
(5)Rosa K.
Tastey creative food, awesome drinks, and decent service. Could use some updating and remodeling. And a tad bit pricey for on campus.
(4)Douglas C.
Café Beaudelaire is a welcome anomaly in Ames. Their motto is "The Soul of Brasil in the Heart of Iowa," and while I can't speak to its "Brazilianness" it serves some tasty food. The burgers are delicious, although anything but the regular gets pretty messy to handle (not always a bad thing). I'm fond of any place that puts an egg on a burger. If you're a little tired of burgers but don't want to stray too far, I suggest the Bauru which mixes it up with a hearty wheat bread, corn, and peas in addition to an all beef patty. The fries are a nice change of pace as they're perfectly cooked wedge fries with a healthy dose of sea salt and they serve them with mayonnaise & lemon juice. Other menu items like the Beirut and the Iron Veggie I have yet to try, but they're on my list. Café Beaudelaire also serves some of the best drinks in town. Though I'm not a fan of Long Islands, they serve a pretty good one here, and they carry a great selection of whisky and scotch. Atmosphere-wise the place is great. It's a cross between a cheap shack and a nice pub. The bar is done nicely in dark wood but if you look above you'll see tin roofing and a lot of festive decoration. The only drawback perhaps is that this place might be too popular for its size. It's tough to squeeze a party of four in for dinner, much less anything larger, and it's usually so enjoyable that people are reluctant to leave. Best for a group lunch while a soccer game is on or an intimate evening for two.
(4)Sarah G.
A nice retreat from the other campustown bars, and also a great spot to grab lunch. Their smoothies are also exceptional.
(4)Mike R.
I've never had the food here, but I've been there for the "nightlife" many of times. For me, it's my favorite bar in Ames. If you don't want to be around a bunch of annoying loud stupid hicks, go here. They have good drinks too and it's pretty relaxed.
(5)Bar C.
This place is a great place to go for a beer, scotch, burger, etc... The signature burger is outstanding and full of flavor. They have great drink specials and I just like the feel of the bar/restaurant. If you're in Ames, this place is a must visit. I have only had the burgers but my daughter liked the pasta dish.
(5)Brent E.
I love Cafe Beaudelaire! Ames is not a place I'd recommend anyone visit, but if you find yourself there, you won't find a better place to spend an evening. Drinks are affordable, and they just might make the best Long Island in the known universe. I pretty much lived in the Cafe for 2 years. It's the kind of place that rewards being a regular. After a few visits everyone will figure out your name, and before you know it you'll be part of the in crowd. When I was there they didn't have a TV in the place (that may have changed by now), so it really encouraged conversation, dancing, and people watching at the big window in front. They're open all day with cheap coffee and big tables, so it's a great place for students to hang out and get some work done before the drinking starts at night.
(5)Drew B.
had the beirut and it tasted great.
(4)Joshua M.
Pretty good spot to drink and hang out. Limited menu, but everything I've tried is good
(4)Long B.
I asked my friend, where do all the kids go in Ames? He had this place in mind, and it's literally located next to the campus. Very easy to find. Since it's still winter in Ames at the time, there were mounds of snow and deep watered slush, so try to park as close as you can by the sidewalk. Otherwise find yourself holding yourself on the edge of the car and jump to a non slushy part. Walking in, it's a very dimly lit joint with lots of college students socializing amongst themselves. Seating is extremely limited, as this place is a small, yet comfortable joint. The only available seating was at the bar, which was adorned with currency from around the world stapled on any open spot on the bar. Apparently a patron knows the owner of the bar, and gave some money they have obtain from their travels is the story behind it. The menu itself is quite interested. They are laminated rectangular menus binded to a metal chrome ring. To best describe it, go into a hardware store and it's similar to paint/carpet/tile setup. It's fairly easy and has some interesting Brazilian appetizers and main course meals. One thing I found annoying was, that the menu wasn't clean and I got some random sticky residue on my hands. Hopefully they take note and wipe them down clean. I ordered a Spanish Burger and they happened to have a Boulevard Wheat, a local KC beer I enjoy. The Bartender who took our order was very nice and knowledgeable of the menu items. The time it took to get our food was in the normal range of 15-20 minutes. Plenty of time to catch up with my friends. Once we got our food, I was pleased how well plated the food was. The only thing I didn't really like was the Paprika that was on top of the bun. It makes it quite messy to eat when it's all over your hands. Overall, the burger itself was cooked perfectly and the meat was tender, juicy and very good. So if you're wanting a local favorite, and not the obvious chain places that surround Ames, give Cafe Beaudelaire a try.
(4)