Des Moines is a hidden gem among Midwest food cities—down-to-earth, innovative, and bursting with local pride.
The top restaurants bring together hearty Iowa produce, inventive chefs, and a push toward cosmopolitan tastes without losing that unmistakably welcoming, small-town spirit.
1. Centro
Downtown’s Centro is Des Moines’ gold standard for lively Italian-American expertise: wood-fired pizzas, homemade pastas, fresh seafood, and vibrant salads, all served in a bustling space with a giant bar and picture windows.
The cocktail program is creative, the wine list broad, and the staff remembers regulars.
It’s where political bigwigs and families rub elbows for every occasion.
2. Eatery A
In a sleek, light-filled building, Eatery A delivers Mediterranean-inspired small plates, pizzas from a wood oven, innovative salads, and a stellar wine and craft beer program.
The happy hour here is one of the city’s best, and the airy patio is perfect for warm evenings.
The energy is young, the food fresh and bold.
3. Harbinger
Harbinger draws from Southeast Asian flavors and Midwest bounty, resulting in creative, beautifully-plated tasting menus.
Adorned with local art, the intimate space gives every meal a special occasion vibe.
Dishes might include Laos-style beef salad, caramel pork, or crispy Brussels sprouts with nam phrik. Don’t miss the inventive cocktails and thoughtful vegetarian options.
4. Fong’s Pizza
Where else can you get pizzas like Crab Rangoon or Kung Pao Chicken, alongside tiki drinks in a kitschy, lively retro lounge?
Fong’s is a Des Moines icon, beloved for late-night bites, group celebrations, and offbeat fun. The menu nods to both Iowa comfort and a playful sense of fusion spirit.
5. Girls Rock! Des Moines House of Cucina
A fast-rising newcomer, Girls Rock! blends community engagement, live music, and innovative plant-forward eats into an energetic hub.
The kitchen’s inventive vegetarian and vegan dishes spotlight Iowa’s seasonal bounty—think BBQ jackfruit, creative grain bowls, and local fruit pies.
The playful setting, activist mission, and sense of belonging make every meal memorable.
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