Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, is a hidden gem when it comes to its food scene. While it may not be as well-known as other major cities in the United States, Des Moines boasts a unique and exciting culinary landscape that is sure to delight visitors and locals alike. From farm-to-table dining to artisanal eateries, the city offers a wide range of options to suit every taste and preference. In recent years, Des Moines has undergone a culinary renaissance, with new restaurants and eateries popping up all over the city. This guide will take you on a journey through the best of Des Moines’ food scene, highlighting must-try dishes, famous chefs and restaurants, and the best ways to experience the city’s culinary culture.
The city’s food scene is deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage, with many restaurants and eateries showcasing the best of Iowa’s produce, meats, and dairy products. From traditional Midwestern comfort food to innovative, modern cuisine, Des Moines has something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, a chef, or just someone who loves to eat, this guide will provide you with the inside scoop on the best of Des Moines’ food scene. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, Des Moines is a city that is sure to leave you wanting more.
From the Iowa State Fair, which showcases the best of the state’s agricultural produce, to the city’s many farmers’ markets, Des Moines is a city that is deeply connected to the land and the people who work it. This connection is reflected in the city’s food scene, which is characterized by a strong emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Whether you’re looking for a casual, laid-back dining experience or a more upscale, fine-dining experience, Des Moines has plenty of options to choose from. With its unique blend of traditional and modern cuisine, the city is sure to delight even the most discerning palate.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Des Moines’ food scene is unique due to its strong emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking methods
- Must-try dishes in Des Moines include pork tenderloin sandwiches, fried Iowa corn fritters, and traditional Midwestern comfort food
- The city is home to several famous chefs and restaurants, including Eatery A and Alba
- The best farm-to-table dining experiences can be found at restaurants such as The Cheese Shop and Basta Pasta
- The best time to experience the food scene in Des Moines is during the summer months, when the city’s many farmers’ markets are in full swing
- Des Moines hosts several food festivals and events throughout the year, including the Iowa State Fair and the Des Moines Food Truck Festival
- Hidden culinary gems in the city include The Continental and Fong’s Pizza
What Makes Des Moines’ Food Scene Unique
Des Moines’ food scene is unique due to its strong emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The city is surrounded by fertile farmland, which provides an abundance of fresh produce, meats, and dairy products. Many of the city’s restaurants and eateries showcase the best of Iowa’s produce, with menus that change seasonally to reflect the freshest ingredients available. This emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients is reflected in the city’s many farmers’ markets, which take place throughout the year. From the Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market to the Valley Junction Farmers’ Market, these events bring together local farmers, producers, and artisans to showcase the best of Iowa’s food scene.
The city’s food scene is also characterized by a strong sense of community, with many restaurants and eateries hosting events and workshops that bring people together to share in the joy of food. Whether it’s a cooking class, a wine tasting, or a simple dinner party, Des Moines’ food scene is all about connection and community. This sense of community is reflected in the city’s many food festivals and events, which take place throughout the year. From the Iowa State Fair to the Des Moines Food Truck Festival, these events celebrate the best of Iowa’s food scene and provide a unique opportunity to experience the city’s culinary culture.
Must-Try Dishes in Des Moines
Des Moines is home to a wide range of must-try dishes, from traditional Midwestern comfort food to innovative, modern cuisine. One of the city’s most iconic dishes is the pork tenderloin sandwich, a breaded and fried pork cutlet that is served on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and mayo. Another must-try dish is the fried Iowa corn fritter, a crispy, golden-brown fritter filled with sweet corn and served with a side of tangy dipping sauce. For a taste of traditional Midwestern comfort food, try the city’s famous meatloaf, a hearty, comforting dish made with ground beef, pork, and a blend of spices.
Other must-try dishes in Des Moines include the city’s famous fried chicken, a crispy, juicy dish that is served with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy. For a sweet treat, try the city’s famous pie, a classic Midwestern dessert made with a flaky crust and filled with a blend of sweet and tart fillings. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or innovative and modern, Des Moines has plenty of options to choose from. With its unique blend of traditional and modern cuisine, the city is sure to delight even the most discerning palate.
Famous Chefs and Restaurants in Des Moines
Des Moines is home to several famous chefs and restaurants, including Eatery A and Alba. Eatery A is a modern American bistro that serves up creative, farm-to-table cuisine in a cozy, upscale atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its seasonal menu, which changes frequently to reflect the freshest ingredients available. Alba is another popular restaurant in Des Moines, a contemporary American eatery that serves up innovative, modern cuisine in a sleek, sophisticated atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its creative cocktails and extensive wine list, making it a popular spot for special occasions and nights out on the town.
Other notable restaurants in Des Moines include The Cheese Shop, a cozy, upscale eatery that serves up gourmet cheese plates and wine, and Basta Pasta, a casual, laid-back restaurant that serves up homemade pasta dishes and Italian-inspired cuisine. For a taste of traditional Midwestern comfort food, try the city’s famous diner, a casual, no-frills eatery that serves up classic dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes. Whether you’re in the mood for something upscale and sophisticated or casual and comforting, Des Moines has plenty of options to choose from.
Farm-to-Table Dining Experiences
Des Moines is home to several farm-to-table dining experiences, including The Cheese Shop and Basta Pasta. The Cheese Shop is a cozy, upscale eatery that serves up gourmet cheese plates and wine, with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is known for its extensive cheese selection, which features a wide range of artisanal cheeses from Iowa and beyond. Basta Pasta is another popular farm-to-table restaurant in Des Moines, a casual, laid-back eatery that serves up homemade pasta dishes and Italian-inspired cuisine. The restaurant is known for its creative menu, which changes seasonally to reflect the freshest ingredients available.
Other farm-to-table dining experiences in Des Moines include The Continental, a modern American bistro that serves up creative, farm-to-table cuisine in a cozy, upscale atmosphere, and Fong’s Pizza, a casual, laid-back pizzeria that serves up gourmet pizzas made with fresh, local ingredients. For a truly unique farm-to-table experience, try the city’s famous farm-to-table dinner series, which takes place throughout the year at various locations around the city. These events bring together local farmers, producers, and chefs to create a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Food Festivals and Events
Des Moines hosts several food festivals and events throughout the year, including the Iowa State Fair and the Des Moines Food Truck Festival. The Iowa State Fair is one of the largest and most popular food festivals in the state, with over 1 million attendees each year. The festival features a wide range of food vendors, including traditional fair fare like corn dogs and funnel cakes, as well as more unique options like alligator burgers and chocolate-covered bacon. The Des Moines Food Truck Festival is another popular food event in the city, with over 50 food trucks gathering in one place to serve up everything from gourmet grilled cheese to Korean BBQ.
Other food festivals and events in Des Moines include the Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Saturday morning from May to October, and the Valley Junction Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Thursday evening from June to September. These events bring together local farmers, producers, and artisans to showcase the best of Iowa’s food scene, with a wide range of fresh produce, meats, and dairy products available for purchase. Whether you’re a foodie, a chef, or just someone who loves to eat, Des Moines has plenty of food festivals and events to choose from.
Hidden Culinary Gems
Des Moines is home to several hidden culinary gems, including The Continental and Fong’s Pizza. The Continental is a modern American bistro that serves up creative, farm-to-table cuisine in a cozy, upscale atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its extensive wine list and creative cocktails, making it a popular spot for special occasions and nights out on the town. Fong’s Pizza is another hidden culinary gem in Des Moines, a casual, laid-back pizzeria that serves up gourmet pizzas made with fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant is known for its unique pizza toppings, including everything from traditional pepperoni and sausage to more exotic options like kimchi and bulgogi beef.
Other hidden culinary gems in Des Moines include La Michoacana, a casual, laid-back Mexican eatery that serves up authentic, homemade dishes like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas, and Tasty Tacos, a food truck that serves up gourmet tacos made with fresh, local ingredients. For a truly unique dining experience, try the city’s famous underground supper club, a secret dining club that meets monthly to share in the joy of food and community. With its unique blend of traditional and modern cuisine, Des Moines is sure to delight even the most discerning palate.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Des Moines’ food scene unique?
Des Moines’ food scene is unique due to its strong emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The city is surrounded by fertile farmland, which provides an abundance of fresh produce, meats, and dairy products. Many of the city’s restaurants and eateries showcase the best of Iowa’s produce, with menus that change seasonally to reflect the freshest ingredients available.
The city’s food scene is also characterized by a strong sense of community, with many restaurants and eateries hosting events and workshops that bring people together to share in the joy of food. Whether it’s a cooking class, a wine tasting, or a simple dinner party, Des Moines’ food scene is all about connection and community. This sense of community is reflected in the city’s many food festivals and events, which take place throughout the year and celebrate the best of Iowa’s food scene.
What are some must-try dishes in Des Moines?
Some must-try dishes in Des Moines include the pork tenderloin sandwich, fried Iowa corn fritters, and traditional Midwestern comfort food. The city is also known for its famous fried chicken, a crispy, juicy dish that is served with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy. For a sweet treat, try the city’s famous pie, a classic Midwestern dessert made with a flaky crust and filled with a blend of sweet and tart fillings.
Other must-try dishes in Des Moines include the city’s famous burgers, a classic American dish made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and the city’s famous BBQ, a hearty, comforting dish made with slow-cooked meats and a blend of spices. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or innovative and modern, Des Moines has plenty of options to choose from.
Are there any famous chefs or restaurants in Des Moines?
Yes, Des Moines is home to several famous chefs and restaurants, including Eatery A and Alba. Eatery A is a modern American bistro that serves up creative, farm-to-table cuisine in a cozy, upscale atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its seasonal menu, which changes frequently to reflect the freshest ingredients available. Alba is another popular restaurant in Des Moines, a contemporary American eatery that serves up innovative, modern cuisine in a sleek, sophisticated atmosphere.
Other notable restaurants in Des Moines include The Cheese Shop, a cozy, upscale eatery that serves up gourmet cheese plates and wine, and Basta Pasta, a casual, laid-back restaurant that serves up homemade pasta dishes and Italian-inspired cuisine. For a taste of traditional Midwestern comfort food, try the city’s famous diner, a casual, no-frills eatery that serves up classic dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes.
Where can I find the best farm-to-table dining experiences in Des Moines?
The best farm-to-table dining experiences in Des Moines can be found at restaurants such as The Cheese Shop and Basta Pasta. The Cheese Shop is a cozy, upscale eatery that serves up gourmet cheese plates and wine, with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. Basta Pasta is another popular farm-to-table restaurant in Des Moines, a casual, laid-back eatery that serves up homemade pasta dishes and Italian-inspired cuisine.
Other farm-to-table dining experiences in Des Moines include The Continental, a modern American bistro that serves up creative, farm-to-table cuisine in a cozy, upscale atmosphere, and Fong’s Pizza, a casual, laid-back pizzeria that serves up gourmet pizzas made with fresh, local ingredients. For a truly unique farm-to-table experience, try the city’s famous farm-to-table dinner series, which takes place throughout the year at various locations around the city.
What is the best time of year to experience the food scene in Des Moines?
The best time of year to experience the food scene in Des Moines is during the summer months, when the city’s many farmers’ markets are in full swing. The Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market and the Valley Junction Farmers’ Market are two of the most popular markets in the city, with a wide range of fresh produce, meats, and dairy products available for purchase.
The summer months are also a great time to experience the city’s many outdoor dining options, including patios, gardens, and rooftop decks. Many of the city’s restaurants and eateries offer outdoor seating during the summer months, making it a great time to enjoy a meal or snack in the fresh air. Whether you’re a foodie, a chef, or just someone who loves to eat, Des Moines has plenty of options to choose from during the summer months.
Are there any food festivals or events in Des Moines I should know about?
Yes, Des Moines hosts several food festivals and events throughout the year, including the Iowa State Fair and the Des Moines Food Truck Festival. The Iowa State Fair is one of the largest and most popular food festivals in the state, with over 1 million attendees each year. The festival features a wide range of food vendors, including traditional fair fare like corn dogs and funnel cakes, as well as more unique options like alligator burgers and chocolate-covered bacon.
The Des Moines Food Truck Festival is another popular food event in the city, with over 50 food trucks gathering in one place to serve up everything from gourmet grilled cheese to Korean BBQ. Other food festivals and events in Des Moines include the Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market and the Valley Junction Farmers’ Market, which take place every Saturday morning and Thursday evening, respectively. Whether you’re a foodie, a chef, or just someone who loves to eat, Des Moines has plenty of food festivals and events to choose from.
What are some hidden culinary gems in Des Moines?
Some hidden culinary gems in Des Moines include The Continental and Fong’s Pizza. The Continental is a modern American bistro that serves up creative, farm-to-table cuisine in a cozy, upscale atmosphere. Fong’s Pizza is a casual, laid-back pizzeria that serves up gourmet pizzas made with fresh, local ingredients.
Other hidden culinary gems in Des Moines include La Michoacana, a casual, laid-back Mexican eatery that serves up authentic, homemade dishes like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas, and Tasty Tacos, a food truck that serves up gourmet tacos made with fresh, local ingredients. For a truly unique dining experience, try the city’s famous underground supper club, a secret dining club that meets monthly to share in the joy of food and community.
Can I find vegetarian or vegan options in Des Moines?
Yes, Des Moines has a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options to choose from. Many of the city’s restaurants and eateries offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, including The Cheese Shop, which serves up gourmet cheese plates and wine, and Basta Pasta, which serves up homemade pasta dishes and Italian-inspired cuisine.
Other vegetarian and vegan options in Des Moines include The Continental, a modern American bistro that serves up creative, farm-to-table cuisine, and Fong’s Pizza, a casual, laid-back pizzeria that serves up gourmet pizzas made with fresh, local ingredients. For a truly unique vegetarian or vegan experience, try the city’s famous vegetarian and vegan food truck, which serves up gourmet dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
How does the food scene in Des Moines compare to other cities?
The food scene in Des Moines is unique and exciting, with a wide range of options to choose from. While it may not be as well-known as other major cities in the United States, Des Moines boasts a culinary landscape that is sure to delight visitors and locals alike. From farm-to-table dining to artisanal eateries, the city offers a wide range of options to suit every taste and preference.
Compared to other cities, Des Moines has a more laid-back and casual food scene, with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The city’s food scene is also characterized by a strong sense of community, with many restaurants and eateries hosting events and workshops that bring people together to share in the joy of food. Whether you’re a foodie, a chef, or just someone who loves to eat, Des Moines has plenty of options to choose from.
What are some popular food trends in Des Moines?
Some popular food trends in Des Moines include farm-to-table dining, artisanal eateries, and gourmet food trucks. The city is also known for its love of traditional Midwestern comfort food, including dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes.
Other popular food trends in Des Moines include the use of local, seasonal ingredients, as well as a focus on traditional cooking methods. Many of the city’s restaurants and eateries are also incorporating more vegetarian and vegan options into their menus, making it easier for visitors and locals to find healthy and delicious food options. Whether you’re a foodie, a chef, or just someone who loves to eat, Des Moines has plenty of options to choose from.
How can I best experience Des Moines’ food culture?
The best way to experience Des Moines’ food culture is to get out and explore the city’s many restaurants, eateries, and food festivals. Start by visiting some of the city’s most popular restaurants, such as Eatery A and Alba, and try some of the city’s famous dishes, like the pork tenderloin sandwich and fried Iowa corn fritters.
You can also experience the city’s food culture by attending some of its many food festivals and events, such as the Iowa State Fair and the Des Moines Food Truck Festival. These events bring together local farmers, producers, and chefs to showcase the best of Iowa’s food scene, and offer a wide range of options to choose from. Whether you’re a foodie, a chef, or just someone who loves to eat, Des Moines has plenty of options to choose from.
Are there any culinary tours or experiences available in Des Moines?
Yes, there are several culinary tours and experiences available in Des Moines. One popular option is the Des Moines Food Tour, which takes visitors on a guided tour of the city’s best restaurants and eateries. The tour includes stops at several local favorites, including Eatery A and Alba, and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the city’s food scene.
Other culinary tours and experiences in Des Moines include cooking classes, wine tastings, and food workshops. Many of the city’s restaurants and eateries offer these types of events, which provide a unique opportunity to learn about the city’s food culture and meet some of its top chefs and food experts. Whether you’re a foodie, a chef, or just someone who loves to eat, Des Moines has plenty of culinary tours and experiences to choose from.