Best Southern American Restaurants in Iowa

21 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Stuffed Olive - Des Moines restaurant

1. The Stuffed Olive - Des Moines

4.7

Exceptional(782)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Des Moines

Booked 48 times today

The Stuffed Olive is about the entire “Martini & Tapas Experience.” From your favorite classics to new and exciting blends you’ve never seen before, you’re sure to find a cocktail to love on our vast martini menu. Add a warm, comfortable atmosphere, great wines, beers and top-shelf spirits, and The Stuffed Olive will become your favorite place to start, end or spend your entire evening. Our tapas menu offers appetizer-sized portions of globally influenced entrees, for a sampling and sharing dining experience. Pair tasty tapas with your favorite martini for happy hour, dinner or a late-night snack. We welcome you to sit back, relax, enjoy great food, good conversation and your favorite martini. Welcome to the Stuffed Olive!

A photo of Mulberry Street Tavern restaurant

2. Mulberry Street Tavern

4.7

Exceptional(574)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Des Moines

Booked 21 times today

Mulberry Street Tavern in Downtown Des Moines is a beacon of Global, International cuisine, offering diners an authentic taste of worldly tavern fare. Guests rave about the "delicious food, excellent service and staff," creating a dining experience that's both memorable and engaging. The open-hearth kitchen crafts dishes that are not only hearty but also shareable, embodying a fusion of flavors from across the globe. The tavern's menu, coupled with "perfect classic cocktails and eclectic award-winning wines," ensures a well-rounded culinary adventure. Its warm and inviting atmosphere, highlighted by standout reviews praising the "wonderful ambience," makes it a must-visit dining destination.

A photo of Tupelo Honey - Des Moines restaurant

3. Tupelo Honey - Des Moines

4.1

Excellent(667)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Des Moines

Booked 20 times today

Tupelo Honey in Des Moines offers a delightful taste of authentic American cuisine with its roots in Southern traditions. This charming restaurant has garnered rave reviews for its "fantastic flavors" and "excellent food," making it a must-visit spot for American food enthusiasts. Diners rave about their mouthwatering chicken and waffles and the exquisite breakfast bowl, which perfectly capture the essence of Southern comfort food. The restaurant’s fun craft cocktails and delectable appetizers, like the sausage & beer gumbo, enhance the dining experience. With a "chill atmosphere" and attentive service, Tupelo Honey stands out as a gem for those seeking genuine American flavors.

4. Alba Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(410)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Des Moines

Booked 10 times today

Alba Restaurant in Des Moines is a shining example of authentic Farm-to-table cuisine, where fresh seasonal ingredients are the heroes on every plate. Known for its "exquisite food" and "top-notch service," Alba continually impresses diners with its ever-evolving menu that keeps guests returning for more delightful surprises. The restaurant's dedication to sourcing the finest meats and freshest produce ensures that each dish is a masterpiece of flavor and quality. Guests rave about the "amazing flavors" and the unique culinary twists on traditional American dishes, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a genuine Farm-to-table dining experience.

5. HoQ

4.5

Awesome(357)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown Des Moines

Booked 7 times today

Welcome to HoQ, a gem nestled in the vibrant East Village of Des Moines, where Contemporary American cuisine shines with authenticity and flair. Praised for its “deliciously amazing meal of high quality,” HoQ offers an exceptional farm-to-table experience that highlights the rich flavors of Iowa’s local produce. Diners rave about the “fantastic atmosphere” and meticulously crafted dishes like the Mediterranean bowl and lamb shank, which are nothing short of perfection. With top-notch service and a cozy ambiance, HoQ promises a memorable dining experience that keeps patrons returning. For those seeking genuine Contemporary American fare, HoQ is a must-visit destination.

6. Cooper's On 5th

4.9

Exceptional(142)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • West Des Moines

Booked 12 times today

Cooper's On 5th in West Des Moines is a true gem for burger enthusiasts, offering a delightful experience that perfectly blends quality and authenticity. Their burgers are a standout, with reviews raving about the "excellent" taste and perfectly cooked patties. One diner mentioned, "My son had a burger and it was excellent!" This cozy spot not only promises delicious burgers but also features a welcoming atmosphere and "attentive and upbeat" service. With a reputation for delivering mouthwatering Americana comfort food, Cooper's On 5th is the perfect destination for anyone craving a truly memorable burger experience.

A photo of Louie's Wine Dive - Des Moines restaurant

7. Louie's Wine Dive - Des Moines

4.5

Awesome(857)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Des Moines

Booked 14 times today

Louie's Wine Dive - Des Moines is a shining star for authentic American cuisine, blending local ingredients with award-winning creativity. Diners rave about the "great food and consistent service," highlighting the restaurant's dedication to quality. The atmosphere is described as "relaxing" and "fun," making it an ideal spot for any meal of the day. Louie's stands out with its exquisite gluten-free options, ensuring everyone can enjoy their American favorites without compromise. From the best chicken piccata around to the "stellar" poke nachos, Louie's offers a culinary experience that keeps patrons returning. Discover the charm and flavor of American cuisine at Louie's!

8. Baratta's

4.5

Awesome(134)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Des Moines

Booked 1 time today

Baratta’s has been a Des Moines staple for over 50 years and is always welcoming new guests to the table. With multiple locations now open, catering available, and take-out options, there are several ways to enjoy our menu. From celebrating anniversaries and birthdays to fueling kids up before football games and dances, Baratta’s is a tradition that keeps getting better.

A photo of Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant - Clive, IA restaurant

9. Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant - Clive, IA

4.8

Exceptional(1224)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Clive

Booked 100 times today

At Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant in Clive, IA, seafood lovers are in for a treat with a menu that truly showcases the freshness and quality of the ocean's bounty. The restaurant's commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients is evident in every seafood dish. Diners rave about the "excellent meal and service," highlighting the flavorful and expertly prepared seafood options. The Grouper has been particularly praised, with patrons expressing their delight over its taste and presentation. Whether you're a local or just passing through, a visit to Cooper's Hawk promises an unforgettable seafood dining experience paired with award-winning wines.

A photo of Ruth's Chris Steak House - West Des Moines restaurant

10. Ruth's Chris Steak House - West Des Moines

4.6

Exceptional(867)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • West Des Moines

Booked 54 times today

Ruth's Chris Steak House in West Des Moines is a beacon of exceptional American cuisine, celebrated for its dedication to quality and authenticity. Known for serving exquisite USDA Prime steaks, each dish arrives sizzling on a 500-degree plate, ensuring a hot and savory experience that delights every sense. As a 2024 OpenTable Diner's Choice Winner and a Wine Spectator award recipient, this restaurant has earned its reputation for delivering outstanding food and service. Glowing reviews rave about the "fantastic service" and "perfectly prepared steaks," making it an ideal choice for special occasions or an indulgent evening out.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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Best Southern American Restaurants in Iowa

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21 restaurants available nearby

1. The Stuffed Olive - Des Moines

2. Mulberry Street Tavern

3. Tupelo Honey - Des Moines

4. Alba Restaurant

5. HoQ

6. Cooper's On 5th

7. Louie's Wine Dive - Des Moines

8. Baratta's

9. Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant - Clive, IA

10. Ruth's Chris Steak House - West Des Moines

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