Restaurants in Des Moines, Iowa

1. Christopher's

Savor elegant steaks and enjoy a refined setting on a romantic dinner outing.

Christopher's

What is Christopher's?
- Christopher's is a long-standing restaurant that has been serving the community with creative cuisine for the past 50 years.
What type of cuisine does Christopher's serve?
- The restaurant is renowned for its unrivaled Italian-American cuisine and fine globally-inspired wines.
What kind of dishes are on the menu?
- The menu features a combination of classic dishes and modern interpretations, including:
  - Spaghetti and meatballs
  - Olive chicken
  - Pan-fried walleye
  - Oven-baked ribs
What beverages does the bar offer?
- The full-service bar provides a wide selection of libations, including:
  - Local and global wines
  - Craft beers and brews on tap
  - Handcrafted cocktails
Does Christopher's offer catering or private event services?
- Yes, the restaurant caters for private events and functions with tailor-made menus.

Christopher's, 2816 Beaver Ave, Des Moines, IA 50310, Phone: 515-274-3694

2. 801 Chophouse

Indulge in premium cuts and sip fine wine during an upscale weekend trip.

801 Chophouse

What is 801 Chophouse?
- 801 Chophouse is an elegant and refined dining destination located in the heart of downtown Des Moines, known for its award-winning cuisine and world-class wine list.
What is the ambiance like at 801 Chophouse?
- The restaurant exudes an intimate and romantic ambiance with a design inspired by 1920s New York City.
What kind of cuisine does 801 Chophouse serve?
- The menu features classic steakhouse fare, including:
  - Prime USDA steaks
  - Innovative sides
  - Fresh seafood
  - Salads
What are some signature dishes?
- Signature dishes include:
  - Oysters on the half shell
  - Live Maine lobsters
  - King crab legs
  - A range of delicious steaks
What kind of beverages does 801 Chophouse offer?
- The cuisine is complemented by a selection of:
  - Global wines
  - Exclusive small-batch bourbons and scotches
  - Imported spirits
Does 801 Chophouse host private events?
- Yes, the restaurant caters to exclusive events and functions for up to 48 guests in private and semi-private dining rooms.

801 Chophouse, 801 Grand Ave #200, Des Moines, IA 50309, Phone: 515-288-6000

3. Alba Restaurant

Taste seasonal dishes and explore creative plates on an exciting couples night out.

Alba Restaurant

What is Alba Restaurant?
- Alba Restaurant is an upscale American restaurant and wine bar that serves a creative menu featuring market-fresh produce and unique grains.
What is the ambiance like at Alba Restaurant?
- The restaurant features reclaimed vintage wooden doors hanging from the ceiling and gorgeous street views through curved windows, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere.
Where does Alba source its ingredients?
- The culinary team uses the bounty of Des Moines and surrounding regions to create fresh and flavorful dishes.
What kind of dishes does Alba serve?
- The menu features:
  - Rich meats such as wild boar, duck, and short ribs
  - Unusual vegetables like farro, kohlrabi, beet greens, red chard, and rutabagas
  - Signature plates like bacon-and-cheese-stuffed quail
What does the lounge at Alba offer?
- The lively lounge serves:
  - Chef-driven burgers
  - Craft beers and brews on tap
  - Easy-drinking wines
  - Colorful cocktails

Alba Restaurant, 524 E 6th St, Des Moines, IA 50309, Phone: 515-244-0261

4. Americana

Enjoy modern American fare and admire skyline views on an easy weekend visit.

Americana

What is Americana?
- Americana is an urban restaurant and lounge featuring modern décor and serving contemporary European and New American cuisine in a relaxed, laid-back setting.
Where is Americana located?
- Americana is situated in downtown Des Moines.
What makes Americana's setting unique?
- The restaurant features multiple levels and a street-side lounge with panoramic views of the Pappajohn Sculpture Garden, where guests can relax with drinks before or after dinner.
What type of cuisine does Americana serve?
- The menu includes:
  - Fresh seafood
  - Prime steaks and chops
  - Gourmet burgers
  - Asian-inspired sharing plates
  - Fresh salads and sides
  - Delectable desserts
What does the full-service bar offer?
- The bar provides a wide selection of beverages, including:
  - Local and global wines
  - Craft beers and brews on tap
  - Handcrafted cocktails
What are Americana’s hours of operation?
- Americana is open for lunch and dinner, seven days a week.

Americana, 1312 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, Phone: 515-283-1312

5. Aposto at the Scala House

Dine in a historic mansion and savor Italian flavors on a romantic evening

Aposto at the Scala House

What is Aposto at the Scala House?
- Aposto at the Scala House is an elegant fine-dining restaurant set in a century-old Victorian mansion in the Historic Sherman Hill Neighborhood District of downtown Des Moines.
Who founded Aposto?
- The restaurant was founded by award-winning restaurateur Tony Lemmo.
What type of cuisine does Aposto serve?
- Aposto offers seasonal wine-paired dishes inspired by Southern Italian, French, and Mediterranean cuisine.
What is special about the ingredients used?
- The menu is chef-driven and features locally sourced ingredients and regional produce.
What beverages does Aposto offer?
- The cuisine is paired with:
  - An extensive list of fine wines from around the world
  - Classic cocktails
  - Champagnes
When is dinner served at Aposto?
- Dinner is offered on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings.
Does Aposto have any special dining events?
- Yes, Aposto hosts a monthly “Pop-Up” dinner in addition to its regular dinner service.

Aposto at the Scala House, 644 18th St, Des Moines, IA 50314, Phone: 515-244-1353

6. Bubba

Dig into Southern comfort food and relax with friends on a fun family outing.

Bubba

What is Bubba?
- Bubba is a family-owned and operated restaurant that serves creative Southern fare in a friendly and inviting setting.
What is the ambiance like at Bubba?
- The restaurant has an elegant atmosphere featuring upholstered chairs and backboards, interesting artwork, and crystal chandeliers, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner.
What kind of food does Bubba serve?
- The menu reflects the rich heritage of the South with classic dishes such as:
  - Fried green tomatoes
  - Shrimp and grits
  - Po’ boys
  - Deviled eggs
  - Fried chicken and waffles
  - Meatloaf
  - Gumbo
Does Bubba offer specialty drinks?
- Yes, the restaurant serves signature Southern cocktails.
What are Bubba’s hours of operation?
- Bubba is open for lunch and dinner, Monday through Sunday, and serves dinner only on Saturday nights.

Bubba, 200 10th St, Des Moines, IA 50309, Phone: 515-257-4744

7. Centro

Try bold Latin flavors and enjoy cocktails during an affordable dinner trip.

Centro

What is Centro?
- Centro is one of Des Moines’ most popular restaurants, known for its fine dining and contemporary Italian-inspired cuisine.
Where is Centro located?
- The restaurant is conveniently located in downtown Des Moines inside a beautifully restored ex-Masonic temple with high ceilings and elegant décor.
Who are the chefs at Centro?
- The menu is crafted by Chef George Formaro and Executive Chef Jon Baker, who specialize in using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
What kind of dishes does Centro serve?
- The restaurant offers Italian-inspired cuisine with signature dishes such as:
  - Italian meat-and-cheese plate
  - Mama’s Meatballs
  - Cheese-and-prosciutto-stuffed chicken
  - Pork chops Milanese
What is the dining experience like at Centro?
- Guests can grab a drink and pizza at the bar or enjoy an intimate multi-course meal paired with fine wines. The restaurant has a lively yet casual atmosphere that promises to impress.
What are Centro’s hours of operation?
- Centro is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner, seven days a week.

1003 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, Phone: 515-248-1780, See the Map

8. Django

Share French-inspired dishes and savor a cozy atmosphere on a retirement date night.

Django

What is Django?
- Django is a downtown brasserie on Locust Street that serves classic French fare in a charming and inviting setting.
What is the dining experience like at Django?
- Django is a casual, family-friendly eatery that removes the intimidation factor from French dining by offering a menu of creative French dishes made with seasonal ingredients and local produce.
What are some of the signature dishes at Django?
- The menu includes:
  - Snow Crab Cocktail
  - Stirling Oysters Rockefeller
  - Beef Bourguignon
  - Seared Sea Scallops
  - Bouillabaisse
  - Filet Rossini
  - Lobster Spaghetti
Are there any must-try menu items?
- Guests should not miss the beautifully presented charcuterie plates and the Burger Royal, which is topped with a fried egg.
What does the full-service bar offer?
- The bar provides a wide selection of beverages, including:
  - Local and global wines
  - Craft beers and brews on tap
  - Handcrafted cocktails
Does Django allow guests to bring their own wine?
- Yes, Django does not charge a corkage fee, so guests are welcome to bring their own wine.
What are Django’s hours of operation?
- Django is open for lunch and dinner, seven days a week.

Django , 1420 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, Phone: 515-288-0268

9. Flying Mango

Explore barbecue and Caribbean flavors during an unusual and exciting food adventure.

Flying Mango

What is Flying Mango?
- Flying Mango is a quirky hot spot with an open kitchen that caters to a variety of events, from romantic dinners to special celebrations.
Who owns and operates Flying Mango?
- The restaurant is owned and operated by Michael Wedeking and Suzanne Van Englehoven.
What is the atmosphere like at Flying Mango?
- The restaurant boasts red and white checkered tablecloths and a comfortable, family-friendly environment.
What type of cuisine does Flying Mango serve?
- Flying Mango specializes in:
  - Barbecue and briskets
  - Cajun and Creole dishes
  - Caribbean specialties
  - Handcrafted cocktails
What are some signature dishes at Flying Mango?
- The menu features:
  - Memphis-style ribs
  - Smoked brisket
  - Seared yellowfin tuna
  - Cajun catfish
  - Lime and garlic chicken
What drinks are available at the bar?
- The full-service bar offers a variety of beverages, including:
  - Craft brews
  - Handcrafted cocktails
  - Casual wines
Does Flying Mango host live music?
- Yes, the restaurant hosts live jazz music and occasionally transforms into a mini-concert hall for visiting blues acts.

Flying Mango, 4345 Hickman Rd, Des Moines, IA 50310, Phone: 515-255-4111