Let’s be honest for a second. When you think of a foodie destination, Des Moines might not be the first city that pops into your head. But that’s where you’d be dead wrong.
This capital city has quietly turned into a serious culinary heavy hitter, and the best restaurants in Des Moines are serving up plates that would make any coastal city jealous. We’re not just talking about corn and casseroles here, folks.
The Des Moines dining scene is absolutely buzzing right now. James Beard nominations? We’ve got them. Mind-blowing international cuisine? Check. Cozy neighborhood gems that feel like your second living room? Double-check.
Whether you’re a local looking to shake up your dinner rotation or you’re just passing through on I-80, this list is your golden ticket.
I’ve rounded up the absolute essential spots—from brand-spanking-new openings to beloved institutions that have been holding it down for years. So bring your appetite and let’s dive into the tastiest tour of DSM you’ll ever take.
1. Alba: Where East Village Elegance Meets Midwest Charm
Tucked away in a renovated 1950s auto garage, Alba is the kind of place that makes you look up the second you walk in.
Seriously, don’t forget to glance at the ceiling—reclaimed wooden doors float above you like they’re defying gravity, and it sets the tone for a dining experience that’s both grounded and magical .
Restaurateur Jason Simon opened this spot back in 2008, and it’s been racking up James Beard Award nominations ever since. That’s three nods for Best Chef Midwest, folks, and that’s not something you stumble into by accident .
The menu here changes with the seasons, and that’s exactly how you want it. These guys aren’t phoning it in with the same old dishes year-round.
Instead, they’re playing with what’s fresh and local, creating plates that surprise you in the best way. Think New York strip stroganoff that’ll ruin all other stroganoffs for you, or a veal breast that’s so tender it falls apart if you look at it wrong . But let me tell you about the farm burger.
It’s a perennial favorite, and for good reason—it’s simple, it’s perfect, and it’s exactly what you want when you’re sitting at that curved bar watching the chefs do their thing in the open kitchen .
If you’re looking for fine dining in Des Moines that doesn’t feel stuffy or pretentious, this is your spot. Request the chef’s table if you can. It’s a front-row seat to some of the best culinary action in the city.
2. Bar Nico: Gluten-Free Never Tasted This Good
Okay, listen. I know “gluten-free” doesn’t usually scream “incredible Mexican food.” But Bar Nico in the East Village is here to flip that script entirely. This place is 100 percent gluten-free, and honestly, you’d never know it .
The vibe is SoCal meets East Village cool—think handmade tortillas flying out of the kitchen, colorful decor, and a menu that’ll have you ordering way more than you planned.
You absolutely have to start with the black trumpet mushroom quesadilla. It’s the kind of dish that makes vegetarians high-five themselves and meat-eaters forget they’re missing anything.
Speaking of meat, the wild boar carnitas tacos are pure magic—tender, flavorful, and piled onto those perfect handmade tortillas . The campechano, which is a wagyu beef barbacoa, is another showstopper.
And here’s a pro tip for you: hit happy hour. We’re talking $5 to $7 tapas that let you sample the menu without blowing your budget . Brunch happens daily here too, so if you’re craving carne asada hash or chilaquiles on a random Tuesday, they’ve got your back.
Bar Nico is hands-down one of the top Des Moines restaurants for modern Mexican, and it proves that dietary restrictions don’t mean flavor restrictions.
3. HoQ: Farm-to-Table With a Bangladeshi Soul
HoQ is the kind of restaurant that makes you feel like you’ve discovered something special. It’s tucked into the historic East Village, with exposed brick, warm lighting, and this cozy bar that just invites you to settle in for the evening .
Suman and Cynthia Hoque run this neighborhood gem, and they’re doing something truly unique here. About 90 percent of their menu comes from local farmers—they actually list them right on the menu, which is such a cool touch .
The food is where things get really interesting. You’ve got this wonderful blend of Midwest farm-fresh ingredients with flavors that’ll transport you.
The Bangladeshi chicken on a stick is a must-order—it’s spiced perfectly and grilled to juicy perfection. Then there are the pierogies topped with caramelized onions, which feel like a nod to Iowa’s Eastern European heritage, but with a HoQ twist .
For something lighter and incredibly fresh, the cold salmon tartare comes served with waffle fries and crème fraîche. Yes, waffle fries with salmon tartare. It works, I promise.
Vegetarians are extremely well taken care of here too, with ample options that don’t feel like an afterthought. When you’re hunting for places to eat in Des Moines that offer something genuinely different, HoQ delivers in spades.
4. Lachele’s Fine Foods: The Smash Burger King
Let’s talk about burgers for a minute. Not just any burgers—smash burgers. Lachele’s Fine Foods over on Ingersoll Avenue has quietly become the stuff of legend in DSM, and once you try their signature smash burger, you’ll get it immediately .
This place is small, it’s quirky, and it’s absolutely packed with flavor. An author actually owns it, which explains the cool, literary vibe you get when you walk through the door .
The concept here is simple, and that’s what makes it so brilliant. They take these balls of fresh beef, smash them onto a hot griddle until the edges get all lacy and crispy, and pile them onto a soft bun with toppings that actually make sense.
The Uncle Denny is a fan favorite—it’s simple, it’s juicy, and it’s got this depth of flavor that’ll make you wonder why anyone bothers with thick pub burgers anymore . The tater tots deserve their own paragraph, honestly.
They’re crispy, seasoned perfectly, and make the perfect sidekick to your burger. Lachele’s also offers vegan and vegetarian options, so nobody in your crew gets left out .
Just a heads up—this place gets packed, and there’s limited seating. But trust me, it’s worth the squeeze. For a casual, no-fuss meal that’s pure bliss, this is one of the best restaurants in Des Moines.
5. RoCA: Tapas and History on Court Avenue
RoCA—which stands for Restaurant on Court Avenue—occupies one of the oldest buildings downtown, and you can feel the history in those exposed brick walls . But don’t let the historic setting fool you; the food here is fresh, creative, and begging to be shared.
This is a tapas-style spot, which means you order a bunch of plates and pass them around the table like a family. It’s easily one of the most fun Des Moines eats experiences you can have.
Start your meal with the seared yellowfin tuna. It comes with sesame seeds, crispy wonton crisps, and this edamame-wasabi aioli that’ll make you want to lick the plate .
The steak de Burgo toast is another standout—steak tips piled onto toasted focaccia with truffle-mashed potatoes underneath. It’s hearty, it’s rich, and it’s everything you want on a cool Iowa evening.
For a lighter bite, the stuffed peppadew peppers are bursting with whipped goat cheese and just the right amount of tang . And here’s a little secret: if you’re having a great time and don’t want the night to end, head downstairs to Shorty’s Somewhat Fancy Bar.
It’s a speakeasy-style lounge that feels like stepping back in time. RoCA is the total package—great food, cool atmosphere, and that downtown energy that makes dining out feel like an occasion.
6. Bubba Southern Comforts: A Taste of Waco in the Heartland
Bubba is pure Southern hospitality, and it hits you the second you walk through the door. Founding partner Chris Diebel brought his Waco, Texas, roots straight to Tenth Street, and the result is a warm, welcoming space that feels like a hug from your favorite aunt .
The decor is charming as all get-out—bow-tie art on the walls, a portrait of Diebel’s grandmother keeping watch, and little touches that make you want to explore every corner .
Now let’s talk about that buttermilk fried chicken. It’s crispy, it’s juicy, and it’s everything you want fried chicken to be. You can get it on its own or paired with waffles for the ultimate sweet-and-savory experience .
The shrimp and grits are another knockout—Cajun-charred Gulf shrimp sitting on a bed of creamy Early Morning Harvest white cheddar grits. It’s comfort food elevated to art form. And don’t you dare skip the deviled eggs topped with pecan-smoked bacon .
The whiskey collection here is one of the best in the city, but since we’re not talking about that today, just know that the sweet tea flows freely and pairs perfectly with just about everything.
For Southern comfort food that transports you straight to Texas, Bubba is one of the top-rated restaurants in Des Moines.
7. Fresko Natural Foods: Where Healthy Meets Heavenly
Eating healthy shouldn’t feel like punishment, and Fresko is here to prove that point in the most delicious way possible. This spot on Locust Street has become a go-to for anyone with dietary restrictions—and honestly, for anyone who just appreciates food made with care and real ingredients .
They’re incredibly accommodating to gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diets, but they never make you feel like you’re missing out.
The golden dragon street noodles are a total revelation. They come with tofu and this Thai coconut sauce that’s creamy, slightly spicy, and completely addictive . If you’re in the mood for something lighter, the vegan sushi rolls are fresh and satisfying without being heavy.
For the meat-eaters out there, the achiote chicken tacos pack serious flavor, and the shrimp on the barbie is grilled to perfection . What I love about Fresko is that it doesn’t scream “health food.” It just quietly delivers amazing meals that happen to be good for you.
The space is bright and welcoming, perfect for a business lunch or a casual dinner with friends. If you’re looking for vegan options in Des Moines that don’t sacrifice an ounce of flavor, put Fresko at the top of your list.
8. Centro: The Godfather of Downtown Dining
You simply cannot talk about the Des Moines food scene without mentioning Centro. Chef George Formaro opened this Italian gem more than 20 years ago, and it literally changed the game for downtown dining .
Located at 10th and Locust, Centro brought energy, style, and incredible food to an area that desperately needed it. And two decades later? It’s still absolutely killing it.
The coal-fired pizzas are the stuff of legend. Topped with La Quercia meats or Rosa Grande pepperoni, they’ve got that perfect blistered crust that only a coal oven can deliver .
But don’t sleep on the pasta. The ricotta gnocchi are little pillows of heaven, and the handmade cavatelli featuring Tony Lemmo’s cavatelli and Graziano’s Italian sausage is the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and savor every bite .
Oh, and the Portobello fries? They’re not optional. Order them. Trust me. The restaurant itself is beautiful—high ceilings, a lively bar, and that energy that comes from a place that’s been doing it right for years.
Monday nights feature half-priced pizza, which might be the best deal in town . Centro is essential, full stop.
9. Simon’s: Italian Charm in Merle Hay
Tucked away in the Merle Hay neighborhood, Simon’s feels like a secret that everyone should know about. It’s cozy, it’s intimate, and it’s got this old-school charm that’s increasingly hard to find .
Simon Goheen runs the show here, and in 2025, he earned a nod from the James Beard Foundation for Outstanding Hospitality . That’s not the kind of recognition you get by accident—it means the team here genuinely cares about making you feel welcome.
The food is Italian-infused comfort food at its finest. Start with the baked artichoke dip—it’s rich, it’s cheesy, and it’s the perfect way to kick things off.
Then dive into the lasagna, which is layered with love and baked until bubbly . But the house favorite might be the beef stroganoff, served with tender steak and trio-pasta in a silky cream sauce that’ll have you sopping up every last drop.
And here’s the kicker: every meal ends with red velvet cake on the house . Yes, free cake. It’s those little touches that make Simon’s feel special.
The lighting is dim, the decor is eclectic, and there’s even a new speakeasy-style lounge next door if you want to extend your evening. For a date night or a celebration, this is one of the best restaurants in Des Moines for that intimate, special-occasion vibe.
10. Hugo’s Wood-Fired Kitchen: Mediterranean Magic in Drake
Hugo’s Wood-Fired Kitchen brings Mediterranean warmth to the Drake neighborhood, and it’s become an instant favorite for good reason .
The space is inviting, with an open kitchen that lets you watch the wood-fired oven do its thing and a spacious patio that’s absolute gold when the weather cooperates.
Owner Lynn Pritchard has created something special here—a place that feels neighborhoody but serves food that’s anything but ordinary.
Start your meal with the lamb meatballs. They’re rich, savory, and come in a sauce that’ll have you reaching for extra bread to soak it all up.
The baked feta, dotted with almonds and peppers, is another starter that’ll make you weak in the knees . Now let’s talk about that fig-and-honey pizza.
The crust comes out of that Marra Forni oven thin, chewy, and kissed with just the right amount of char. Topped with fig, honey, and probably some cheese situation I can’t even remember because I’m too busy dreaming about it, it’s a must-order .
For something heartier, the lamb shank is fall-off-the-bone tender, and the cauliflower steak proves that vegetables can absolutely be the star of the show. Hugo’s is a gem, plain and simple.
11. Chikin Lickin: Korean Fried Chicken Bliss
Korean fried chicken is having a moment, and Chikin Lickin is leading the charge in Des Moines.
This spot recently expanded into downtown with a new location inside Local Bites, a food hall in the Greater Des Moines Partnership Building . But don’t worry—the original Waukee location is still going strong for those on the western side of town.
Here’s the deal with Korean fried chicken: it’s double-fried, which means it comes out impossibly crispy, and then it’s tossed in these incredible sauces that stick to every nook and cranny. The soy garlic wings are perfection—savory, slightly sweet, and completely addictive.
The spicy gochujang version brings the heat in the best possible way . Beyond the chicken, you’ll find Korean street food favorites like bibimbap and bulgogi fries, which are exactly what they sound like: fries loaded with bulgogi beef and all the fixings.
It’s messy, it’s indulgent, and it’s exactly what you want when you’re craving something bold and satisfying. For some of the most exciting Des Moines eats to hit the scene recently, Chikin Lickin is a can’t-miss.
12. TrailSide Tap: Cyclists and Food Lovers Unite
Situated right at the start of the High Trestle Trail, TrailSide Tap in Ankeny is the perfect pit stop for cyclists, families, and anyone who appreciates good food in a lively setting .
The modern interior is bright and welcoming, the patio is expansive, and there’s always a good soundtrack playing to keep the energy up. It’s the kind of place where you can show up in sweaty bike gear or dressed for a casual date night, and either way, you’ll feel right at home.
Start your meal with the shrimp and cabbage sauteed in a soy-peanut glaze. It’s a flavor bomb that sets the stage for what’s to come. The roasted Brussels sprouts are another winner—crispy on the outside, tender within, and tossed with just the right amount of seasoning .
For your main event, the TrailSide burger is a fan favorite for good reason. It’s juicy, it’s stacked, and it hits the spot every time. If you’re coming for dinner, the steak chimichurri or teriyaki salmon bowl are both excellent choices.
Weekend brunch is also a huge draw, with loaded hash browns and birria burritos that’ll cure whatever ails you . TrailSide Tap is proof that the suburbs are absolutely killing it in the Des Moines restaurant scene.
13. A Dong Restaurant: Vietnamese Done Right
Tucked behind an unassuming brick facade, A Dong has been serving authentic Vietnamese cuisine to Des Moines for decades . This is the kind of place where the menu is massive—we’re talking 145 items—and ordering by number is completely normal .
The knowledgeable staff can guide you through the options, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with the pho.
The broth is the star here. It’s rich, aromatic, and clearly been simmering for hours to develop that deep, soul-warming flavor. The beef is tender, the rice noodles are perfectly cooked, and the fresh herbs and bean sprouts on the side let you customize each bite .
What really sets A Dong apart, though, is how incredibly vegan and vegetarian-friendly it is. There are tons of plant-based options, and the staff is happy to help with substitutions.
The crispy spring rolls are a must-order, and the vermicelli noodle bowls with grilled meats are generous, beautifully presented, and packed with flavor .
The space is casual and clean, the service is fast and friendly, and the prices are more than reasonable. For some of the most comforting places to eat in Des Moines, A Dong is a true hidden gem that deserves your attention.
Conclusion
So there you have it—thirteen spots that prove Des Moines is absolutely crushing it in the food department. From James Beard-nominated fine dining to casual fried chicken joints, this city has range, and it’s only getting better.
The best restaurants in Des Moines are waiting for you, and trust me, they’re not going to disappoint.
Now get out there and start eating. Your new favorite meal is just around the corner, whether you’re heading downtown, exploring the East Village, or venturing out to the suburbs.
Got a spot you love that I missed? Don’t keep it a secret—hit me up and let me know. The DSM food scene is a community effort, and we’re all better when we’re sharing the love. Happy eating, Iowa.