Have a bite Des Moines
Growing up in Des Moines, I’ve had ample time to experience most of its culinary offerings. And while I don’t consider myself a gastro guru, I’d like to think that I have a few good ideas on where to get my grub on in this city. So why not make a list out of it?
Whether you are in town for a conference, campaign trail stop or just looking for a new local joint to try out, this list should help direct you in the right direction.
Marino’s: One of the Haas family favorites. Made from scratch pasta, tasty pizza and BYOB. Save room for their tiramisu.
Centro: We can’t seem to go here without running into someone we know. Definitely a Des Moines hot spot, but also a great menu. Can’t go wrong.
La Mie Bakery: Breakfast, lunch, fresh-baked bread and macaroons? Sign me up. This local spot serves up fast French and does it right. Sit down while you can because tables fill fast.
Table 128 Bistro+Bar: Stuck on the West side and want a truly amazing meal, look no further. We don’t get out here nearly enough, but every time we do we leave amazed! Great cocktails, easy atmosphere and perfectly presented dinners.
Noah’s Ark Ristorante: This dimly lit joint has some of my favorite pizza in town. Belly up to the bar or set up shop near the fireplace. This place is old-school dining at its best.
801 Chop House: On the expensive side, but man is it worth it! We like to celebrate life’s big events here with a bottle of wine from our cellar.
The Cheese Shop of Des Moines: Meats and cheeses and wines, oh my! Small but mighty, this Shops at Roosevelt gem is a great place to meet up with a few friends and catch up over charcuterie.
Lucca: Slightly biased since we hosted our wedding rehearsal dinner here, but I love the atmosphere and carefully curated prix-fixe dinner menu at this East Village fave.
Cafe di Scala: Nestled in historic Sherman Hill, this restaurant is set to reopen as Aposto after the new year. Can’t wait to see what masterminds Tony Lemmo and chef Phil Shires have in store for us.
On my radar: Sidebar, Lurra Cocina and Guru BBQ.
