10 Best Des Moines Restaurants

Des Moines is famous for dishes like the breaded pork tenderloin sandwich, steak de Burgo, and an abundance of corn-fed beef and pork. This Des Moines food makes the city an appealing stop for food tourism, showcasing Midwestern comfort and agricultural bounty. The best food in Des Moines often highlights its agricultural roots. What sets good food in Des Moines apart from some other areas is its specific take on regional specialties like the oversized, crispy pork tenderloin sandwich, a point of state pride. Cooking techniques prominent in Des Moines include the careful preparation of steak de Burgo (a beef tenderloin dish with a specific garlic-butter and herb sauce, believed to have originated in Des Moines) and the art of smoking meats for barbecue. Special ingredients often utilized include Iowa corn, soybeans, and high-quality pork and beef raised in the state.

The average cost of a meal in Des Moines can range from $12 to over $100 per person, varying with the establishment and type of dining. A single meal at a budget-friendly restaurant or a casual spot might cost between $12 and $25. For a group meal at a mid-range restaurant, individuals can expect to spend between $30 and $60 each. When considering a high-end or fine dining restaurant in Des Moines, the cost for one person can be $70 to $100 or more, especially for tasting menus or at highly acclaimed venues.

Yes, many good restaurants Des Moines offers are budget-friendly, providing excellent value without sacrificing quality. Several good places to eat in Des Moines offer delicious and satisfying meals at affordable price points. For example, Skip's (from the provided list) is a classic diner famous for its well-priced breakfast and lunch, including its signature tenderloin. George The Chili King Drive-In is another long-standing, budget-friendly spot known for its chili, coneys, and loose meat sandwiches. B&B Grocery, Meat & Deli is renowned for its hearty "killer" sandwiches at reasonable prices. 

Des Moines has a wide selection of popular fast-food restaurants offering quick and convenient meal options throughout the city, with national chains like McDonald's and Casey's (a regional convenience store chain with popular pizza) being very common. These spots are known for their recognizable brands and efficient service. Some of the most popular fast-food restaurants in Des Moines include:

• McDonald's: A global fast-food leader with numerous locations.
• Casey's: While a convenience store, its made-to-order pizza is extremely popular across Iowa.
• Culver's: A Midwestern favorite known for its ButterBurgers and frozen custard.
• Taco Bell: Offers Mexican-inspired fast food.
• Subway: Provides customizable submarine sandwiches.
• Wendy's: Known for its square beef patties and Frosty desserts.
• Burger King: Famous for its Whopper sandwich.
• Pancheros Mexican Grill: A fast-casual spot popular for its fresh-pressed tortillas and burritos.

What are the Top Casual Restaurants in Des Moines for a Relaxed Evening Out?

Des Moines offers many excellent best casual restaurants in Des Moines perfect for a relaxed evening out, with places like Eatery A, Flying Mango, and Smokey D's BBQ providing flavorful food in comfortable settings. These establishments are known for their inviting atmospheres and satisfying menus.

• Eatery A: This Ingersoll Avenue spot offers a lively yet relaxed atmosphere with Mediterranean-inspired food, including wood-fired pizzas and shareable small plates, making it great for a casual evening with friends.
• Flying Mango: Known for its vibrant and eclectic decor and a fusion of Caribbean and barbecue food, Flying Mango provides a fun, laid-back atmosphere, often with live music, for an enjoyable night out.
• Smokey D’s BBQ: For a very casual and satisfying barbecue experience, Smokey D's offers award-winning smoked meats in a bustling, family-friendly environment.
• Exile Brewing Company: This downtown brewery features a spacious taproom and restaurant area with a relaxed vibe, serving craft beers and elevated pub fare, suitable for a casual group dinner.
• Fong's Pizza: Famous for its unique Asian-inspired pizzas (like Crab Rangoon pizza) in a kitschy, fun setting, Fong's offers a very casual and memorable dining experience.

Des Moines's food scene continues to expand with new establishments frequently opening, with recent additions like Oak Park and Lachele's Fine Foods adding interesting options. Listed here are some of the newest restaurants in Des Moines:

• Oak Park Restaurant: Located in the Ingersoll neighborhood, Oak Park has brought a refined yet comfortable dining experience with a focus on seasonal American food and craft cocktails.
• Lachele's Fine Foods: While it gained popularity quickly after opening, this diner-style spot known for its smash burgers and nostalgic feel continues to be a highly talked-about "newer" staple in the Des Moines food scene.
• The Cave DSM: This natural wine bar and small plates spot has added a unique and intimate option for those seeking curated wine selections and thoughtfully paired bites.
• Clyde's Fine Diner (Newer Ownership/Refreshed): Sometimes, existing spots under new ownership or with significant menu refreshes can feel like new additions; keep an eye on established diners that may get a new lease on life.
• Various concepts in developing areas: Neighborhoods like the Market District and areas around downtown continue to see new projects, often including smaller, independent restaurants and cafes.

Downtown Des Moines offers several popular restaurants for dinner, ranging from upscale steakhouses to lively contemporary American spots, with establishments like 801 Chophouse, Proudfoot and Bird, and Centro being well-regarded choices. These restaurants downtown Des Moines are known for their quality food and convenient location for an evening meal.

• 801 Chophouse: This is a classic upscale American steakhouse, popular for business dinners and special occasions. It's known for USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list in a luxurious setting.
• Proudfoot and Bird: Located in the historic Hotel Fort Des Moines, this restaurant offers modern American food with a focus on wood-fired cooking. Its elegant and historic ambiance makes it popular for a refined dinner.
• Centro: A long-standing downtown favorite, Centro serves rustic Italian food, including wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas, in a bustling, energetic atmosphere. It's popular for both casual and more celebratory dinners.
• Django Restaurant: Offering French-inspired comfort food, Django is a popular downtown spot for dinner, known for dishes like steak frites, mussels, and a good selection of wines in a lively bistro setting.
• Malo: Specializing in Latin American food with an emphasis on shared plates and creative cocktails, Malo provides a vibrant and festive atmosphere for a group dinner downtown.

Many top restaurants Des Moines has, including establishments like Smokey D's BBQ, Eatery A, and Flying Mango, offer convenient delivery or takeout services for their popular dishes. For instance, Smokey D's BBQ, known for its award-winning barbecue, often provides options for ordering large family packs or individual meals for takeout directly through their website or by phone, and may partner with third-party delivery apps. Eatery A, with its Mediterranean-inspired menu, frequently makes its wood-fired pizzas, small plates, and entrees available for takeout, and may use services like DoorDash or Grubhub for delivery. Flying Mango, offering Caribbean and barbecue food, also often has takeout options for its flavorful dishes, which can be a great way to enjoy their unique food at home; customers should check their website or call for the most current ordering methods. Many other Des Moines top restaurants across various food styles have also adapted to offer these off-premise dining options, so it's always good to check a specific restaurant's website or preferred third-party delivery platforms like Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Grubhub.

Des Moines has vegan-friendly restaurants like Dirt Burger, The New Northwestern Cocktail & Wine Bar (with strong vegan options), Ritual Cafe, and The Veggie Thumper (a food truck), alongside other establishments offering plant-based choices. Dirt Burger specializes in plant-based burgers, fries, and shakes, offering a fast-casual vegan experience. The New Northwestern Cocktail & Wine Bar, while not exclusively vegan, is known for having a creative and substantial selection of vegan small plates and entrees. Ritual Cafe is a long-standing coffee shop that also offers a good variety of vegetarian and vegan breakfast and lunch items in a bohemian atmosphere. The Veggie Thumper food truck provides globally inspired vegan street food at various locations. Many Des Moines restaurants are also increasing their vegan offerings to cater to different dietary preferences.

Des Moines has gluten-free friendly restaurants like Gluten Free N' More (a dedicated bakery with some savory items), many contemporary American establishments such as Harbinger, and places like Eatery A that are accommodating to gluten-free needs. Gluten Free N' More is a dedicated gluten-free bakery offering a wide array of breads, pastries, and sometimes take-and-bake pizza crusts or other savory items, ensuring a safe option for those with celiac disease. Harbinger, known for its innovative small plates, often features many naturally gluten-free dishes or can modify preparations due to its focus on fresh, from-scratch cooking. Eatery A, with its Mediterranean menu, can often accommodate gluten-free diners with its selection of grilled items, salads, and by offering gluten-free pizza crust. Many upscale restaurants in Des Moines are also accustomed to handling gluten-free requests.

Des Moines's most famous food styles are its quintessential Midwestern comfort food, highlighted by the breaded pork tenderloin sandwich, and its take on American barbecue. Listed below are common and popular food styles in Des Moines food:

• American Comfort Food/Midwestern: This is a defining style for Des Moines, featuring hearty, satisfying dishes. The breaded pork tenderloin sandwich (a very large, thin, breaded and fried pork cutlet on a bun) is an Iowa icon and famous for its sheer size and regional devotion. Steak de Burgo is another locally famous dish.
• Barbecue: Des Moines has a respected barbecue scene, with establishments like Smokey D's BBQ winning national awards. This style, often featuring slow-smoked pork and beef with a variety of sauces, is famous for its rich flavors and connection to Midwestern grilling culture.
• Italian-American: From classic red-sauce joints to more contemporary Italian eateries, this food style is well-represented and popular in Des Moines. It's famous for its crowd-pleasing pasta dishes, pizzas, and familiar flavors.
• Steakhouse: Reflecting Iowa's status as a major producer of beef and pork, steakhouses offering high-quality cuts of meat are a prominent part of the Des Moines dining landscape. This is famous due to the direct access to excellent local meat.
• New American/Farm-to-Table: A growing number of Des Moines restaurants focus on New American food, emphasizing seasonal ingredients sourced from Iowa farms. This style is gaining fame for its fresh, innovative approach to dining.
• Mexican/Latin American: Des Moines has a solid offering of Mexican restaurants, from casual taquerias to more upscale establishments, as well as some spots featuring other Latin American food.
• Asian (various): While not as concentrated as in some larger cities, Des Moines offers a good selection of Asian food, including Vietnamese, Thai, and Chinese restaurants that are popular for their distinct flavors.

Brewpub Fare: With a growing craft beer scene, many Des Moines breweries also serve food, ranging from elevated pub snacks to full restaurant menus, famous for pairing local brews with satisfying eats.