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Best American Restaurants in Downtown Des Moines

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21 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Mulberry Street Tavern restaurant
1. Mulberry Street Tavern
4.6
Exceptional(580)
Price: Expensive
• American • Des Moines
Booked 11 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
2. Tupelo Honey - Des Moines
4.3
Awesome(674)
Price: Moderate
• American • Des Moines
Booked 17 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.
A photo of The Stuffed Olive - Des Moines restaurant
3. The Stuffed Olive - Des Moines
4.7
Exceptional(798)
Price: Moderate
• American • Des Moines
Booked 28 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 Alba Restaurant restaurant
4. Alba Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(420)
Price: Expensive
• American • Des Moines
Booked 3 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.
A photo of HoQ restaurant
5. HoQ
4.5
Awesome(360)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown Des Moines
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.
A photo of Cooper's On 5th restaurant
6. Cooper's On 5th
4.8
Exceptional(148)
Price: Moderate
• American • West Des Moines
Booked 9 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
4.6
Exceptional(858)
Price: Moderate
• 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!
A photo of Baratta's restaurant
8. Baratta's
4.5
Awesome(135)
Price: Moderate
• American • Des Moines
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
4.7
Exceptional(1256)
Price: Moderate
• American • Clive
Booked 54 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(903)
Price: Moderate
• American • West Des Moines
Booked 25 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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Logan
    Denver / Colorado •1 review
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Came for the Valentines Day experience. The food was amazing and the atmosphere was very nice. Our waitress was incredible and very considerate. At the start of the meal, she made sure we understood what all the menu items were what they came with and was just all in all very friendly. I definitely would recommend and will be visiting again.
    More info
    Alba RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Des Moines
    •
    4.7
  • Dan
    Orlando / Central Florida East •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Great and unique dining experience. I enjoy the farm to table aspect of the restaurant. The service was great. Our server was warm and responsive. I would recommend HOQ to anyone who would like a nice quality dining experience.
    More info
    HoQPrice: Expensive• Farm-to-table• Downtown Des Moines
    •
    4.5
  • Dan
    Kansas City / Kansas •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Our favorite place to eat in Des Moines. Delicious food and great martinis.
    More info
    The Stuffed Olive - Des MoinesPrice: Moderate• American• Des Moines
    •
    4.7
  • Evy
    Iowa •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We’ve eaten here three times and it seems to get better and better. It was Valentine’s Day so it was very busy. Our server was efficient and polite. The variety of the menu always surprises me as Tupelo Honey is best known for their fried chicken and southern comfort food. I had the grain bowl and the spiced pumpkin bisque. I could have licked my bowl, the soup was that good. Several people in our party had the meat loaf and that also did not disappoint. The smothered chicken was another winner! I highly recommend this restaurant.
    More info
    Tupelo Honey - Des MoinesPrice: Moderate• Regional American (Contemporary Southern)• Des Moines
    •
    4.3
  • Joanne
    Detroit / Eastern Michigan •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    A great meal serviced by a genuine server, Christian. Our dinners were delicious and we ate every bite. Great portion sizes for a filling dinner. The wine we selected complimented our dinners. Overall a great experience.
    More info
    Mulberry Street TavernPrice: Expensive• American• Des Moines
    •
    4.6

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