Des Moines: A Culinary Surprise
Des Moines, Iowa. For many, the name conjures images of cornfields and the Iowa State Fair. But beneath the surface of this Midwestern capital lies a vibrant and rapidly evolving culinary scene. Forget the stereotypes – Des Moines is quickly becoming a foodie destination, offering a diverse range of flavors and dining experiences that will surprise and delight even the most discerning palate. This isn’t just about the pork tenderloin (though we’ll get to that later); it’s about a passionate community of chefs, farmers, and entrepreneurs who are transforming the way the world sees Des Moines food. This guide is your passport to the city’s best eats, taking you on a culinary adventure from fine dining establishments to hidden-gem cafes and everything in between. Get ready to discover the best food Des Moines has to offer.
Defining What Makes Food “The Best”
Before we dive into the recommendations, let’s define what “best” means in this context. It’s not simply about the fanciest restaurant or the most expensive dish. We’ve considered a range of factors to curate this list, ensuring that there’s something for every taste and budget. The quality of ingredients is paramount, favoring restaurants that source locally and prioritize freshness. Taste and flavor profiles are, of course, key. We’re looking for dishes that are expertly prepared, balanced, and memorable. Ambiance and atmosphere play a role, creating an overall dining experience that is enjoyable and welcoming. Excellent service is also essential, ensuring that every guest feels valued and well taken care of. Value for money is another important consideration, recognizing that a great meal doesn’t always have to break the bank. Finally, we celebrate uniqueness and innovation, highlighting restaurants that are pushing the boundaries of culinary creativity. While “best” is ultimately subjective, the restaurants and dishes listed here are consistently highly rated and come with our enthusiastic recommendation.
Exceptional Fine Dining Experiences
For those seeking a truly special occasion or an unforgettable meal, Des Moines boasts a number of fine dining establishments that deliver exceptional culinary experiences. HoQ Restaurant is a standout, known for its farm-to-table approach and innovative dishes that showcase the best of Iowa’s bounty. The menu changes seasonally, reflecting the freshest ingredients available. Expect beautifully plated creations, impeccable service, and a sophisticated atmosphere. Alba is another excellent choice, offering modern American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients and creative flavor combinations. The restaurant has a warm and inviting ambiance, perfect for a romantic dinner or a special celebration. Eatery A is a more casual option, but don’t let that fool you – the food is top-notch. They specialize in wood-fired pizzas, small plates, and craft cocktails, making it a great spot for sharing and socializing.
Casual Dining with American Flair
Sometimes, you just want a great meal in a relaxed and comfortable setting. Des Moines has plenty of options for casual dining, offering American cuisine with a local twist. High Life Lounge is a Des Moines institution, known for its retro vibe, classic cocktails, and delicious comfort food. It’s a great place to grab a burger, a sandwich, or some crispy fries. Zombie Burger + Drink Lab is another popular spot, serving up over-the-top burgers with creative toppings. The atmosphere is fun and quirky, with a zombie theme that’s sure to entertain. The Iowa Taproom is a must-visit for beer lovers, offering a wide selection of Iowa craft beers on tap. They also have a menu of delicious pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers.
Exploring International Flavors
Des Moines’ culinary scene extends far beyond American cuisine. The city is home to a diverse range of international restaurants, offering flavors from around the globe. If you’re craving Italian, Trostel’s Greenbriar is a classic choice. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up delicious Italian dishes for generations. The menu features traditional pasta dishes, seafood entrees, and decadent desserts. Cacio e Pepe is a newer addition to the Des Moines Italian scene, focusing on authentic Roman cuisine. The restaurant is named after the classic pasta dish, which is a must-try. For Mexican food, Mi Patria Restaurant is a local favorite. This family-owned restaurant serves up authentic Mexican dishes, including tacos, enchiladas, and mole. Malo is a more modern take on Mexican cuisine, with a focus on fresh ingredients and creative flavors. If you’re in the mood for Asian cuisine, A Dong is a great choice. This Vietnamese restaurant is known for its pho, banh mi, and other classic dishes. Sakari Sushi Lounge is a popular spot for sushi lovers, offering a wide selection of fresh and creative rolls.
Breakfast and Brunch Delights
Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast or brunch in Des Moines. St. Kilda Cafe & Bakery is a popular spot for coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. The atmosphere is bright and airy, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. The Waveland Cafe is a Des Moines institution, serving up classic diner fare for over seventy years. Expect generous portions, friendly service, and a retro atmosphere.
Pizza Perfection
Everyone loves pizza, and Des Moines has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Fong’s Pizza is a Des Moines original, known for its crab rangoon pizza and other creative toppings. The atmosphere is fun and quirky, making it a great spot for a casual meal. Gusto Pizza Co. is another popular choice, serving up wood-fired pizzas with fresh ingredients. The crust is thin and crispy, and the toppings are always flavorful.
Burger Bliss
For burger aficionados, Des Moines offers a range of options to satisfy your cravings. B-Bops is a Des Moines institution, known for its simple but delicious burgers. The burgers are cooked to perfection, and the toppings are always fresh. Zombie Burger + Drink Lab, mentioned earlier, also deserves a second mention for its creative and over-the-top burger creations.
Barbecue Bonanza
If you’re craving barbecue, Des Moines has you covered. Smokey D’s BBQ is a multiple award-winning barbecue joint, serving up tender ribs, pulled pork, and brisket. Jethro’s BBQ is another popular choice, known for its massive portions and flavorful sauces.
Coffee and Cafe Culture
Des Moines has a thriving coffee and cafe culture, with plenty of options for a caffeine fix or a light meal. Mars Cafe is a local favorite, known for its strong coffee, delicious pastries, and cozy atmosphere. Scenic Route Bakery is another popular choice, serving up artisan breads, pastries, and sandwiches.
Sweet Endings: Desserts and Sweets
No meal is complete without a sweet ending. Black Cat Ice Cream offers handmade ice cream in a variety of creative flavors. ChuChu Donuts specializes in fluffy, delicious donuts with unique toppings.
Breweries and Bars with Exceptional Food
Des Moines’ craft beer scene is booming, and many breweries and bars also offer excellent food. Confluence Brewing Company is a popular brewery with a menu of delicious pub fare. El Bait Shop is a legendary Des Moines bar with a wide selection of craft beers and a surprisingly good menu of bar snacks.
Food Trucks: Culinary Adventures on Wheels
Des Moines’ food truck scene is thriving, offering a variety of cuisines on wheels. Keep an eye out for the Hy-Vee Food Truck, which serves up a rotating menu of delicious dishes. The Cheese Trap is another popular food truck, specializing in grilled cheese sandwiches with gourmet fillings. The best way to find food trucks is to follow them on social media or check local event listings.
Local Specialties: Must-Try Iowa Foods in Des Moines
Beyond specific restaurants, there are some iconic Iowa foods that you simply must try in Des Moines. The Pork Tenderloin Sandwich is a classic Iowa dish, consisting of a breaded and deep-fried pork tenderloin served on a bun. You can find it at many restaurants throughout the city. The Loose Meat Sandwich, also known as a Maid-Rite, is another Iowa staple. It’s a simple but delicious sandwich made with ground beef, onions, and spices. Canteen Lunch Counter is a legendary Des Moines diner that specializes in loose meat sandwiches. Scotcheroos are a classic Iowa dessert, made with peanut butter, butterscotch, and chocolate. Sweet Corn, when in season, is another must-try Iowa food. You can find it at farmers markets and roadside stands. Finally, be sure to sample some Iowa Craft Beer. The state is home to a number of excellent breweries, and many bars and restaurants in Des Moines offer a wide selection of local brews. Blue Ribbon Ice Cream, another Iowa native product is also worth trying.
Exploring Beyond Restaurants
Don’t limit your culinary explorations to just restaurants. Des Moines has a vibrant food scene that extends to farmers markets, cooking classes, and food festivals. The Des Moines Farmers’ Market is a must-visit for food lovers. It’s held every Saturday morning from May to October and features a wide variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts. Several organizations offer Cooking Classes that teach you how to prepare Iowa cuisine. Keep an eye out for Food Festivals throughout the year, such as 80/35, which often features a variety of food vendors. The Des Moines Arts Festival also offers diverse food options alongside its artistic displays. The Iowa State Fair, while technically not in Des Moines, is a short drive away and offers a truly unique culinary experience.
Tips for Navigating the Des Moines Food Scene
To make the most of your Des Moines culinary adventure, here are a few tips. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for popular restaurants. Many restaurants have limited seating, so it’s best to book in advance. Consider transportation options when planning your dining experience. Parking can be limited in some areas, so you may want to consider using public transportation or a ride-sharing service. If you have any Dietary Restrictions, be sure to call ahead to inquire about menu options. Many restaurants are happy to accommodate special requests. Finally, explore different neighborhoods to discover unique dining experiences. The East Village is known for its trendy restaurants and bars, while Valley Junction is home to a number of antique shops and charming cafes.
Des Moines Delights: A Final Thought
Des Moines is truly a hidden gem for food lovers. With its diverse range of cuisines, passionate chefs, and thriving local food scene, the city has something to offer everyone. We encourage you to explore, discover your own favorite spots, and share your culinary adventures with others. What are your favorite Des Moines restaurants? Let us know in the comments below!
