Pelo's Sundries: Historic Coffee Shop & Antiques Gem in Le Claire, IA
Pelo’s Sundries in Le Claire, Iowa, is much more than a coffee shop—it’s a cherished local treasure with over 75 years of family history. Run by the remarkable owner Gregg, this quaint spot offers simple, affordable coffee at just $1 with free refills, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Lined with unique antiques and rich stories, Pelo’s invites visitors seeking genuine conversation and a taste of local heritage rather than fancy espresso or WiFi. The experience here is personal and timeless, making it a true gem for those who appreciate history, community, and honest, good coffee.
Pelo's Sundries at a glance
- Address 101 N Cody Rd, Le Claire, IA 52753, United States
- Restaurant type Coffee shop .
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Pelo's Sundries: Reviews & Ratings
In our recent visit to Le Claire we found that this gem of a coffee shop was closed due to the pandemic. That was sad! Because we sat down with the owner Gregg after watching numerous residents of this beautiful town stop to visit him. What an amazing historian of the town. This store has been in his family for over 75 years! We hope to return for the grand reopening for some coffee!!
Small coffee and book shop ran by the most amazing man ever. Great stories and tales from the owner. Don't get scared away. This place is worth it. This man is not in it for the money. Coffee only $1 and free refills.
Met the lovely owner here last year and had some of his delicious $1 coffee. Checking in today to make sure he’s doing ok and in the hope that this unique gem is still open. Wishing you and your business all the best during the pandemic and looking forward to seeing you open again soon.
If you want WiFi and espresso, look elsewhere. If you want incredible conversation, decent brewed coffee, and an experience like none other, then stop on in. The owner here is one in a million and I hope to be back to speak with him again one day. His collection of antiques lines the walls, and there are a few real treasures. Ask for stories about some of the items, but don’t ask if any of it’s for sale. It’s not.
We ventured to Le Claire today with our visitors from California on a mission to visit what we thought was a book store. Much to our surprise - it is really a coffee shop and because of the pandemic, was closed to customers. Happily, we were not turned away though, but were given a peek in the shop and its treasures. Thanks, Gregg! You were so informative and kind. We hope to stop in for more conversation and maybe a coffee sometime soon!
We very much enjoyed are time talking to Gregg. He was very entertaining with many interesting stories. We will definitely stop in for tea, coffee and conversation again. Never judge a book by its cover for what words are read may be life changing
Dollar coffees & great conversation. Learned a lot about the history of the area. Would never get anything done if we lived close enough to come in for morning coffee - we'd just spend all day chatting with the owner.
Location
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Pelo's Sundries101 N Cody Rd, Le Claire, IA 52753, United States
Nestled in the heart of Le Claire, Iowa, Pelo's Sundries is not your everyday coffee shop. This charming spot, located at 101 N Cody Rd, is a rare blend of history, community, and the simple joy of coffee. More than just a place to grab a cup, Pelo's Sundries serves as a living museum of local heritage, proudly maintained by Gregg, the warm and knowledgeable owner whose family has stewarded this beloved establishment for over 75 years.
Stepping inside, you’re greeted by walls adorned with antiques and treasures that whisper tales of Le Claire’s past—a collection that invites stories rather than sales. Gregg’s passion for his town shines through in every conversation, transforming a casual coffee visit into a deeply enriching experience. The coffee itself is straightforward but fulfilling: brewed fresh, offered at an incredibly accessible price of $1, with free refills that encourage lingering and connection. There’s a purity in this simplicity that feels both rare and genuine in today’s fast-paced world.
Don’t expect Wi-Fi or fancy espresso shots here. Pelo's Sundries prefers to serve connection of a different kind—a meeting point for meaningful dialogue, community spirit, and rich local history. Customers have described their visits as memorable conversations with an extraordinary man, making the coffee more than just a drink but a shared experience. The joy of Pelo’s Sundries lies not in a menu of elaborate dishes but in the richness of its stories and the authenticity of its offering.
Though the pandemic has brought challenges, the hope and anticipation for Pelo's grand reopening remain strong among the locals and visitors alike. This coffee shop is a gem that offers not only warmth in a cup but also a heartfelt connection to the soul of Le Claire. For anyone seeking a genuine coffee experience steeped in heritage and community, Pelo’s Sundries promises a visit worth remembering.