Des Moines has undergone a remarkable culinary transformation over the past decade, evolving from a Midwestern meat-and-potatoes reputation into a genuine food destination with a thriving independent restaurant scene.
Driven by talented chefs, strong local farming networks, and a community eager to support homegrown dining, Des Moines is eating better than ever.
Harbinger consistently earns its place at the top of Des Moines dining conversations.
This intimate, chef-driven restaurant offers an inventive menu that draws from global techniques and local ingredients, resulting in dishes that are surprising, beautifully composed, and deeply satisfying.
The tasting menu format allows the kitchen to really shine, and the wine pairings are equally thoughtful. It is essential dining for anyone who takes food seriously.
Proudfoot & Bird stands as the city’s premier fine dining destination, pairing locally sourced, seasonal dishes with an award-winning wine program in an atmosphere that feels genuinely refined without being stiff.
The kitchen demonstrates a masterful command of both classical technique and contemporary creativity, and the service matches the food at every step. For a true special occasion dinner, there is no better address in Des Moines.
Zombie Burger + Drink Lab is one of the most fun and wildly popular restaurants in the city, serving over-the-top gourmet burgers with a horror-movie aesthetic and a fantastic drink menu to match.
It’s loud, it’s energetic, and the food is genuinely delicious — the kind of place that earns a devoted following because it fully commits to its concept without sacrificing quality.
Centro Restaurant brings a warm, Italian-American energy to the heart of Des Moines with a menu of handcrafted pastas, wood-fired dishes, and classic cocktails that make it one of the most reliably satisfying restaurants in the city.
The lively atmosphere and consistently good food have made it a downtown anchor for years, beloved by both locals and visitors alike.
Habesha Ethio Eritrean Restaurant offers one of the most distinctive and rewarding dining experiences in Des Moines.
The authentic Ethiopian and Eritrean dishes — served on injera with layers of spiced stews and vegetarian delights — bring bold, unfamiliar flavors to the table in the most welcoming possible setting. It is an adventurous, communal, and genuinely memorable meal.
Get the All-American Travel Secrets!
Don't miss out on America's hidden gems!
