5 Best Restaurants in Des Moines IA
Updated 26 September 2026 · 17 restaurants in Des Moines IA considered · Ranked from Google ratings
This guide lists the top five restaurants in Des Moines IA, ranked by weighted Google ratings with at least 300 reviews. We analyzed 17 qualifying businesses to bring you a practical selection for locals and visitors. Each entry highlights what reviewers specifically mention, from beer selections to steak quality. Whether you need a quick lunch or a special dinner, this list helps you find the best dining spots in the city based on verified feedback and established ratings.
#1
El Bait Shop
★ 4.7 (3,093 Google reviews)Bar & grill$10–20 per person
Representative photo, not of this business.
El Bait Shop offers a lively bar and grill experience with a massive beer selection and hundreds of taps. Reviewers praise the thick, hearty homemade chili and the knowledgeable staff. This spot serves local specialties with fast service, featuring outdoor seating and drive-through options. Open daily from 11 am, it accommodates solo diners and groups alike. Prices range from $10 to $20, making it a practical choice for lunch or dinner in downtown Des Moines.
Best for: Beer lovers seeking comfort food
- Address
- 200 SW 2nd St, Des Moines, IA 50309, United States
- Hours
- Fri 11 am–12 am; Mon 11 am–11 pm; Sat 11 am–12 am; Sun 11 am–11 pm; Thu 11 am–11 pm; Tue 11 am–11 pm; Wed 11 am–11 pm
#2
801 Chophouse
★ 4.7 (1,352 Google reviews)Steak house
Representative photo, not of this business.
801 Chophouse is a steak house known for consistently great food and impeccable service. Reviewers highlight perfectly cooked steaks and plentiful side dishes prepared fresh. The atmosphere suits anniversaries and celebrations, with hosts often adding special touches. Guests enjoy great cocktails, a wide wine list, and vegetarian options. Open evenings from 5 pm, this venue offers private dining rooms and happy-hour food. It provides a polished experience without pretense for those seeking a high-quality meal in Des Moines.
Best for: Steak dinners and special occasions
- Address
- 801 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, United States
- Hours
- Fri 5–10 pm; Mon 5–10 pm; Sat 5–10 pm; Sun 5–9 pm; Thu 5–10 pm; Tue 5–10 pm; Wed 5–10 pm
#3
The Iowa Taproom
★ 4.6 (4,270 Google reviews)Restaurant
Representative photo, not of this business.
The Iowa Taproom features a huge list of Iowa beers and ciders with helpful bartenders guiding choices. Reviewers recommend the Philly egg rolls and Iowa chop, noting generous portions like the bread pudding. The venue offers a welcoming environment with no waiting for seating. While focused on drinks, the food is solid, including French dip sandwiches. Open daily from 11 am, it serves lunch and dinner, providing an accessible spot for beer enthusiasts in downtown Des Moines.
Best for: Iowa beer and hearty sandwiches
- Address
- 215 E 3rd St #100, Des Moines, IA 50309, United States
- Hours
- Fri 11 am–12 am; Mon 11 am–10 pm; Sat 11 am–12 am; Sun 11 am–10 pm; Thu 11 am–11 pm; Tue 11 am–10 pm; Wed 11 am–10 pm
#4
Hessen Haus
★ 4.6 (3,766 Google reviews)German restaurant$20–30 per person
Representative photo, not of this business.
Hessen Haus provides a fun atmosphere with a German beer selection on another level. Reviewers enjoy the light, crispy fish and chicken combo with curry sauce, as well as the delicious German meatloaf. The venue serves comfort food with fast service and features a braille menu. Open late until 2 am on weekends, it offers outdoor seating and happy-hour drinks. Prices range from $20 to $30, making it a top stop for those loving German specialties in Des Moines.
Best for: German cuisine and extensive beer
- Address
- 101 SW 4th St, Des Moines, IA 50309, United States
- Hours
- Fri 11 am–2 am; Mon 11 am–11 pm; Sat 11 am–2 am; Sun 11 am–10 pm; Thu 11 am–11 pm; Tue 11 am–11 pm; Wed 11 am–11 pm
#5
Centro
★ 4.6 (2,478 Google reviews)Italian restaurant$20–50 per person
Representative photo, not of this business.
Centro combines modern elegance with cozy warmth in a lively downtown setting. Reviewers describe exceptional experiences with polished service and excellent recommendations. The menu includes healthy options and great desserts, complemented by a strong wine list and cocktails. The space works for both dressed-up dinners and relaxed lunches. Open daily from 11 am, it offers delivery and takeout. With prices between $20 and $50, Centro delivers a memorable Italian dining experience in Des Moines.
Best for: Modern Italian dining and wine
- Address
- 1003 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, United States
- Hours
- Fri 11 am–10 pm; Mon 4–9 pm; Sat 11 am–10 pm; Sun 11 am–9 pm; Thu 11 am–9 pm; Tue 11 am–9 pm; Wed 11 am–9 pm
How we made this list
We looked at 17 restaurants in Des Moines IA with a Google rating of 4.0 or higher and at least 20 reviews, then ranked by weighted Google rating across the city, 300 reviews minimum. A rating from thousands of reviews counts for more than the same rating from a handful, so a new place with a few perfect scores does not jump the queue. Ratings and hours are from public Google listings on 26 September 2026 and can change. Nobody paid to be on this list.
Tips before you go
- 801 Chophouse and Centro take reservations, useful on weekend evenings.
- Hours and prices come from Google listings and change, so check the listing before a long trip.
Frequently asked questions
Which is the highest-rated restaurant on this list?
El Bait Shop ranks first, with a Google rating of 4.7 from 3,093 reviews. 801 Chophouse is second at 4.7 from 1,352 reviews.
Which restaurants in Des Moines IA are open late?
El Bait Shop stays open until 12 am; The Iowa Taproom stays open until 12 am; Hessen Haus stays open until 2 am.
How much does it cost at these restaurants?
Google lists these price ranges per person: El Bait Shop $10–20; Hessen Haus $20–30; Centro $20–50. The others do not list a price range.
Which of these have free parking?
Google lists free parking for El Bait Shop, 801 Chophouse and Hessen Haus.
Run a business in Des Moines IA?
Get a fast website with your hours, menu, location and reviews. If your business is listed here and something is wrong, tell us and we fix it.
Email support@pagenearby.com