Sidekick Coffee & Books

This coffee shop is a cherished gem in my neighborhood, conveniently located within walking distance, making it a go-to spot for enjoying high-quality coffee and pastries. True to its name, the shop boasts an impressive selection of books available for reading or purchase, adding a unique charm to the experience. The staff members are consistently friendly and efficient, ensuring a pleasant visit. I typically order an iced caramel latte made with oat milk, which pairs wonderfully with a pastry of my choice. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, making it an ideal place to relax, whether during football season or any time of year. This distinctive shop is a true standout in Iowa City and is certainly worth a visit.

Sidekick is a great spot for coffee + books and getting a little work done. They’ve got solid espresso drinks, drip coffee, and cold coffee options, plus a really nice pastry selection (and even ice cream!). Service was friendly and welcoming—definitely coming back.

You walk in to Sidekick Coffee & Books and you are welcomed with a smell of coffee, baked goods and books. It's a cool place to buy a book, a drink and then stay and read a while. I wanted to be smaller and younger, crawl into their hexagonal nooks and read kids books all afternoon. There is a diverse mix of books so a little something for everyone. I had their Crimson Limemade. It was good. I couldn't believe that the layering of the crimson and the lime made stayed separated all the way home to the QC - kind of cool.

Sidekick Coffee and Books is one of my favorite places in the world. I have been coming since they opened, and as time goes on, it just gets better and better. The coffee is the BEST. My favorite drinks are the iced Winnie the Pooh latte and the smoked salt maple latte. The food is also delicious, my favorites being the quiche and the cinnamon rolls. The staff is so kind and helpful. The atmosphere in Sidekick is extremely cozy. They have a great selection of books, toys, games, puzzles, and other gift items. It's a great place to find a perfect gift, and they wrap for free! The events are another one of my favorite things about Sidekick. They have several book clubs, author events, storytimes, trivia and more. My kids (ages 8 and 3) also love Sidekick. It's a fantastic place to bring your kids. They have ice cream, a train table, and fun cubbies to read in! I also highly recommend the summer camps. My daughter did 2 last year, and will be doing them again this summer! Katy and the staff and her staff make Sidekick a place you will want to come back to again and again.

Pleasantly surprised by this little store. I was worried that the coffe would not be good but I was pleasantly suprised to find that it was great!

Ordered two iced lattes and it was almost $14. That’s insanely overpriced, I also asked for a small and they gave us a large cup. Why can’t places give me a 12oz rather than these large beverages? I want to actually taste the espresso. It does taste fine but won’t come back due to the price.

Great local coffee shop and bookstore. Friendly service. Delicious coffee. Matcha latte and other specialty drinks. Scrumptious pastries. Gracious support of local artists and authors. Sponsor of inspiring community events and book readings.