Where to Eat: The Best Restaurants in Des Moines, Iowa

Taste of Africa

African restaurant

2500 Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy Suite #3, Des Moines, IA 50310

Embark on a flavorful journey at this East African gem, where tender BBQ chicken and authentic goat dishes await!

Panka Peruvian Restaurant

Restaurant

2708 Ingersoll Ave Suite 200, Des Moines, IA 50312

Dive into the vibrant flavors of Peru with expertly crafted ceviche and delightful pisco sours in a warm atmosphere.

Pho 515

Vietnamese restaurant

801 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314

Nestled inside a bustling market, this Vietnamese eatery serves vibrant pho, crispy egg rolls, and refreshing bubble tea.

Mr. Bibbs Restaurant - Home of The Tenderloin Sandwich

American restaurant

2705 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313

This beloved local gem is renowned for its mouthwatering tenderloin sandwiches and hearty grinders, delivering feel-good meals.

Tequila Restaurant & Cantina

Mexican restaurant

2824 Easton Blvd, Des Moines, IA 50317

Cozy and family-owned, this eatery delights with fresh tacos, exceptional chimichangas, and refreshing margaritas at unbeatable prices.

Smitty's Tenderloin Shop

Restaurant

1401 Army Post Rd, Des Moines, IA 50315

This nostalgic gem serves mouthwatering breaded pork tenderloin sandwiches, alongside homemade onion rings and irresistible funnel cake fries!

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Skip's

American restaurant

4000 Fleur Dr, Des Moines, IA 50321

Classic American eatery known for exceptional salmon and the best steak deburgo, all in a lively atmosphere.

Tumea & Sons Restaurant

Restaurant

1501 SE 1st St, Des Moines, IA 50315

Step into a nostalgic Italian eatery where generous portions of penne pasta and crispy garlic bread delight your palate.

The Dam Pub

Bar & grill

2710 Beaver Ave, Des Moines, IA 50310

This lively bar and grill features delicious burgers, craft beers, and a fun pop culture vibe, plus an inviting patio.

Alba Restaurant

American restaurant

524 E 6th St, Des Moines, IA 50309

Elevated American dining awaits with seasonal dishes, highlighted by expertly cooked NY Strip and delightful fritters.

Miyabi 9

Japanese restaurant

512 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309

This cozy eatery delights with beautifully presented sushi, bento boxes, and flavorful vegetarian options, perfect for gatherings!

Taqueria Los Pinos

Taco restaurant

3920 E 14th St, Des Moines, IA 50313

This popular taco spot serves up authentic pastor and asada tacos, paired with exceptional house-made salsas.

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Mi Lindo Mexico ️- Taco Truck

Mexican restaurant

5120 NE 14th St, Des Moines, IA 50313

This popular taco truck offers authentic carne asada and al pastor, ensuring a sensational meal on the go!

FANTASTIC TACOS

Taco restaurant

900 E Army Post Rd, Des Moines, IA 50315

Discover a taco haven where marinated pork and flavorful steak tacos steal the show, drawing in loyal fans!

Lucky Horse Beer & Burgers

Restaurant

2331 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311

Step into a quirky haven where mouthwatering burgers reign supreme and a fantastic local beer selection awaits! Enjoy perfectly cooked Prime rib or the flavorful Curried Chickpea burger, complemented by seasoned fries and delicious coleslaw.

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The Walnut

Restaurant

1417 Walnut St, Des Moines, IA 50309

Relaxed eatery in a renovated '20s garage, featuring unique dishes like mahi tacos and Loco Moco, plus local brews.

Flying Mango

Southern restaurant (US)

4345 Hickman Rd, Des Moines, IA 50310

A lively destination known for its Southern BBQ, featuring standout dishes like BBQ brisket and shrimp and grits!

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Olympic Flame Restaurant

Greek restaurant

514 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309

This beloved eatery serves authentic Greek dishes like chicken gyro and flaming cheese, accompanied by lively belly dancing!

Rolling Wok Cafe

Asian restaurant

1534 E Grand Ave E, Des Moines, IA 50316

Delight in authentic Southeast Asian flavors, from seafood pho to chargrilled chicken lo mein, in an intimate setting.

Tasty Tacos

Restaurant

1400 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50316

A beloved local gem, this fast-casual spot excels in delicious, homemade tacos and friendly service. Don't miss the crispy, tender taco shells!

Teriyaki Boys

Japanese restaurant

700 Locust St a1, Des Moines, IA 50309

Serving generous portions of mouthwatering teriyaki, this Japanese eatery excels in beef, chicken, and shrimp delights.

Hessen Haus

German restaurant

101 SW 4th St, Des Moines, IA 50309

Experience authentic German fare and an impressive beer selection in a lively, traditional atmosphere. Don't miss the unforgettable pretzel roll!

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Teriyaki House Japanese Grill

Asian fusion restaurant

1014 E 14th St, Des Moines, IA 50316

A lively Asian fusion spot renowned for hot chicken teriyaki bowls, fresh sushi, and crispy pork dumplings.

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Christopher's

Italian restaurant

2816 Beaver Ave, Des Moines, IA 50310

Established in 1950, this family-owned gem offers mouthwatering calamari and chicken parm, complemented by excellent service.

St. Kilda Cafe & Bakery

Restaurant

300 SW 5th St, Des Moines, IA 50309

This trendy Australian café delights with unique breakfast offerings like the Big Aussie Breakfast and seasonal lattes!

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Bordenaro's Pizza & Pasta

Pizza restaurant

6108 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315

This beloved pizza spot features mouthwatering homemade crust, delightful onion rings, and a cozy seating area for a relaxed experience.

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Tasty Tacos

Restaurant

5847 SE 14th St, Des Moines, IA 50320

This casual eatery excels in homestyle Mexican delights, featuring must-try soft shell chicken tacos and delicious poppers.

Club 2000

Bar & grill

422 Indianola Rd, Des Moines, IA 50315

A cozy bar & grill offering friendly service, satisfying dishes like the Darrell sandwich, and a lively atmosphere!

Tsing Tsao South

Chinese restaurant

4230 Fleur Dr, Des Moines, IA 50321

Bright and modern, this family-owned spot serves generous portions of classic Chinese dishes like chicken corn egg drop soup.

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Le's Chinese Bar-B-Que

Chinese restaurant

1600 2nd Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314

Discover mouthwatering Chinese barbecue in a cozy spot featuring succulent roasted duck, delicious crab rangoon, and savory lo mein.

DZÔ Korean BBQ

Korean barbecue restaurant

2611 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312

A lively Korean BBQ experience awaits, featuring flavorful pork belly and refreshing cucumber kimchi, perfect for gatherings.

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Phở All Seasons

Vietnamese restaurant

1311 E Euclid Ave, Des Moines, IA 50316

Savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine with delectable Bun Bo Hue, crispy Banh Xeo, and irresistible spring rolls in a clean, welcoming space.

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Fawn's Asian Cuisine

Asian restaurant

1107 E University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50316

This cozy eatery serves delightful Asian dishes with standout options like Evil Jungle Prince and crispy tofu! Perfect for families.

A Dong Restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant

1511 High St, Des Moines, IA 50309

Discover a cozy Vietnamese gem specializing in flavorful pho, curry dishes, and delightful spring rolls at affordable prices.

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Baratta's Restaurant and Catering

Italian restaurant

2320 S Union St, Des Moines, IA 50315

This beloved Italian gem excels in exceptional cuisine and outstanding service, making every gathering unforgettable. Experience their famed wedding catering and mouthwatering dishes!