The best restaurants in Des Moines

“Counter-serve chain dishing up Southwestern staples from burritos to nachos in lively environs.”

“When cravings hit and weeknights feel long, Taquizas Don Cuco steps up with no-fuss Mexican comfort and easy online ordering. It’s the kind of reliable, flavorful standby you keep in rotation, whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or feeding a hungry crew.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Casual set-up offering traditional Mexican street fare with vegan options & ice cream at a counter.”

“Fast-food chain doling out baked pastas, subs, pizza & other casual Italian fare plus custom combos.”

“Unfussy pub serving up Chicago-style deep-dish & thin-crust pizzas, pasta & sandwiches until late.”

“El Patio is the kind of cozy, family-owned spot you end up calling your go-to for Mexican favorites, with a patio that begs for an unhurried meal when the weather cooperates. Simple, satisfying plates, friendly vibes, and zero fuss make it an easy choice for Des Moines folks.”

From the Urbandale newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Viva Mexican Restaurant keeps it simple with familiar Mexican favorites and a laid-back vibe that just works on a weeknight, whether you land in Des Moines or Urbandale. Put it in the rotation when you want dinner to be easy, flavorful, and reliably satisfying.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Family-style eatery for Italian dishes ranging from pizza to sausage sandwiches, plus beer and wine.”

“Tacos Meza keeps it simple, fresh, and wildly tasty with tacos and burritos cooked with heart, the kind that hit different and bring real sabor. Pull up hungry this week, leave obsessed, then start planning your next round because this spot has that just-one-more-bite effect.”

From the Ankeny newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Mexican eatery with an informal vibe that serves all manner of classic dishes, along with cocktails and patio seating.”

“Whether you’re chasing sticky-sauced wings, a classic burger, or a cold beer, The Station on Ingersoll nails high-quality bar food with a sports-obsessed vibe. Rally the crew, claim a table, and let them handle the snacks while you focus on the scoreboard.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Purveyor pairs wine on tap with seasonal charcuterie and luxury baked goods from Doré Bakery, curated in a modern European-style market. Go to explore unexpected pairings, stock an effortless hang, and feel-good sipping sustainably thanks to their free-flowing wine system.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Lucky Horse Beer & Burgers is the Dogtown hang where the Burger of the Month keeps things interesting, August’s Chopped Cheese Burger is calling, and the patio doubles as a stage for local tunes and Geeks Who Drink. Drop by this week, grab a cold one or a cocktail, unwind, repeat.”

From the Ankeny newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Creative Mediterranean dishes & wood-fired pizza in a stylish space with reclaimed Iowa wood.”

“Old-school neighborhood bar & eatery serving sandwiches & elevated American comfort food.”

“Craving something beyond the usual eggs and toast? Early Bird - East Village spins the classic diner into a chef-forward playground, with indulgent plates, clever brunch cocktails, and even Brunch in a Box for when the couch wins... basically your go-to when breakfast and lunch are both calling.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Mullets Restaurant Des Moines delivers the hearty stuff locals crave, from breakfasts made with fresh, local ingredients and bloody Marys to Iowa’s largest selection of drink flights. Big portions, lively energy, and easy online ordering or catering mean you can brunch hard or keep it cozy at home.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 6, 2026

“With spots in East Village, West Glen, Ankeny, and Waukee, The Breakfast Club nails the metro brunch vibe with brunch classics, fun twists, and a dedicated drink menu. It’s where you rally the group when you want an easy hang, solid plates, and a little morning celebration.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Oak Park leans into its on-site garden and local farmers for a seasonal, chef-driven menu that actually changes. If you’re feeling fancy, the Chef’s Table and a sommelier-led wine program with vintages back to 1990 turn dinner into an experience you’ll keep talking about.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Historic, industrial haunt with over 100 regional craft beers & locally sourced New American fare.”

“Easygoing wood-paneled sports bar with a covered patio offering American eats, cocktails & beer.”

“Lachele's Fine Foods + The Fitz is the Des Moines duo locals keep in the rotation, with Ingersoll and Highland Park menus and a vibe that’s part neighborhood hang, part comfort kick. Solid American classics, fun energy, and zero pretense. Worth the short hop from Ankeny.”

From the Ankeny newsletter, September 4, 2026

“When you want comfort with a little polish, Simon's, also known as J. Benjamin's, brings those Des Moines favorite vibes with American and Italian staples done right. Think shareable apps, hearty pasta, pizza, seafood, and house specialties that feel like a hug, then a high five.”

From the Ankeny newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Stylish lounge decorated with contemporary art & featuring cocktails, tapas & weekly jazz.”

“Whether you crave creative rolls, classic nigiri, or grilled Japanese bites with a cocktail, Sakari Sushi Lounge nails that sweet spot between sleek and comfy. They cater, host parties in a private room, and make online ordering painless, so your next Ingersoll hang is set.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Make this week easier with Baratta's Restaurant and Catering, a Southside staple turning traditional recipes into the kind of lasagna al forno, steak deburgo, and cannolis that feel like Sunday at nonna's table. Dine in or let their team handle your next family gathering or big deal event.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Alba Restaurant nails that sweet spot between neighborhood spot and special-occasion treat, serving imaginative American plates built on fresh seasonal ingredients and top cuts.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Modern Mexican eatery utilizing heirloom corn varietals for tacos and other gluten-free dishes.”

“Modern, clubby restaurant featuring sushi & Japanese tapas, plus fancy mixed drinks.”

“NY-style thin crust that actually crackles, Sicilian squares when you want heft, and slices cooked to order make Dough Co. Pizza | Drake an easy weeknight win. Customize the dough, snag a sandwich or wings, pair it with a craft beer, and call their catering when the group chat spirals.”

From the Urbandale newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Lachele's Fine Foods turns the week around with messy-good burgers, hot dogs, creative sandwiches, and legit vegan options that don’t taste like a compromise. Pull up for flavor experiments, keep an eye out for their Battle Bus, and remember... this is a locals’ spot, not a once-a-year thing.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Barbecue restaurant and sports bar offering comfort-food staples, plus beer and cocktails.”

“Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, a classic steak, or seafood that actually tastes like a night out, Skip's nails the American supper vibe. Established in 1981, they pour from a full bar with premium liquors, draft and bottled beers, plus an extensive wine list.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Bubba brings downtown Des Moines some legit Southern favorites with comfort classics, local flair, and a deep whiskey list, all in a relaxed, stylish room. When the weather behaves, the patio is exactly where your next laid back catch-up should happen.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 12, 2026

“When you need a break from Midwest predictable, Buzzard Billy’s brings Louisiana soul to DSM with jambalaya, seafood gumbo, blackened catfish, and even gator if you're feeling bold. Pair it with a Hurricane or Electric Alligator and call it a weeknight win.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Lucca mixes modern and traditional Italian with a few North African winks, so you might start with a caesar, dive into cracked pepper spaghetti, clams, or amatriciana, then finish strong with a multicourse prix fixe. Polished without being precious, it’s the kind of spot that keeps locals coming back.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Craving a mini escape to Havana without leaving East Village? Ceviche Bar serves up Cuban classics like slow-cooked pork and a proper pressed Cubano, paired with handcrafted cocktails and the kind of rum selection that makes weeknights feel like celebrations.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Masao keeps it simple and seriously good, focusing on clean flavors, precise technique, and freshness you can taste. When your week needs a quiet win, snag a reservation and settle in for thoughtfully made sushi that hits the spot without trying too hard.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Wasabi Urbandale does the modern lounge thing right, serving sushi, slurpable ramen, and other Japanese favorites that make weeknights feel fancy without trying too hard. Easy online ordering, reservations, and even catering mean you can keep it chill or feed the whole crew.”

From the Urbandale newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Waveland Cafe is that small-town-at-heart spot locals swear by for big plates, personal service, and the kind of homestyle breakfast that makes weekday grinds tolerable. Their claim of the best breakfast in Des Moines and "best hashbrowns in the galaxy" isn’t subtle, but it is delicious.”

From the Urbandale newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Latin King Italian Dining has been serving traditional Italian favorites for over 74 years, with a wine list that leans delightfully Italian and a warm, old-school welcome. Think Sirloin Italiano, Wine Wednesday, and a setting that works for birthdays, anniversaries, or low-key Tuesdays.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Allora Cafe is a modern Italian-inspired spot with Midwestern hospitality, a seasonal, chef-driven menu, and farm-fresh ingredients. Swing by for morning coffee, a panini with soup or salad, or a quick bowl of pasta that actually tastes like lunch, not a meeting you had to schedule.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Harbinger turns the local harvest into inventive, vegetable-focused small plates with flavors inspired by Southeast Asia, all sourced from local farmers. Build your own lineup or lean into the 5-course Chef’s Tasting, sip a clever cocktail, and feel smug about eating your vegetables.”

“Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.”

“Centro keeps downtown delicious with fresh, Italian-inspired plates and standout pizzas in a lively, casual yet polished room that works for friends, family, and clients. Grab a drink and pizza at the bar or settle into a full multi-course situation. Consistently great, zero pretense.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Tranquil restaurant in a converted '20s garage offering modern American eats & local craft brews.”

“Hip counter-serve pizzeria dishing up crispy, thin-crust pies made with creative toppings & sauces.”

“Chill restaurant offering vegan, gluten-free & vegetarian fare, plus cocktails & draft beer.”

“Candlelit dinner spot serving modern, wine-paired Southern Italian fare in a Victorian mansion.”

“Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.”

“Casual Italian joint with patio seating & a menu of pizza, pasta & sandwiches for eat-in or takeout.”

“Channel your inner 1960s at The High Life Lounge, a throwback tavern serving broasted chicken, cheeseburger baskets, bacon-wrapped tater tots, and the occasional goulash situation. The Champagne of Beers leads the lineup, with Hamm's, Pabst Blue Ribbon, and original recipe Schlitz keeping company.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Chain dishing up wings, tenders & burgers, plus sauces ranging from sweet to very spicy.”

“If you’re craving legit old-school vibes, Noah's Ark Ristorante has leather booths, stained glass, and recipes they’ve been perfecting since 1946. Go for the legendary Neapolitan-style pizza or imported-semolina pastas, then raid the newly added bakery for that secret-recipe bread you swear you’ll share... you won’t.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 21, 2026

“” make weeknights feel like a celebration. Grab friends, snag a bocce game, and keep an eye on their daily lunch and weekend specials.”

“Funky mash-up of an old-school Polynesian cocktail lounge & a red-sauce Italian joint.”

“When you want melted cheese joy without the fuss, Cheese Bar delivers with house-made charcuterie, to-die-for grilled cheeses, and cast-iron mac and cheese that hits like a warm blanket. Pair it with a cocktail, something from the taps, or a glass of wine, or go Swiss with fondue and raclette.”

“Chain dishing up wings, tenders & burgers, plus sauces ranging from sweet to very spicy.”

“Christopher's has been a Beaverdale staple since 1963, serving Italian-American comfort like baked lasagna, zippy penne diavolo, and the house-favorite Steak De Burgo alongside a solid wine and local beer lineup.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 4, 2026