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Best Fun Restaurants in Downtown Des Moines

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945 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Fresko restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1179)
Price: Moderate
• Farm-to-table • Des Moines
Booked 23 times today
“Fresko” meaning “fresh” inspires our creation of seasonal menus made from locally sourced ingredients. Fresko makes natural food from the bounty of Iowa farms whenever possible. The culinary team prepares product from start to finish applying natural time honored techniques with care at every step. This enriches the flavorful and nutritious product we serve and benefits our community. Fresko believes we are what we eat and eating well means living well.Fresko features a splendid assortment of original cocktails with a deep spirits menu and a beer program with sixteen beers on tap in addition to bottles and cans. Fresko's wine menu focuses on quality selections at a great value to our guests.
A photo of 801 Chophouse – Des Moines restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3169)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Downtown Des Moines
Booked 24 times today
Located in the heart of downtown Des Moines, enjoy beautiful views and excellent customer service at 801 Chophouse. We value our guests and want to give you the best dining experience possible. Our restaurant has only prime USDA steaks, paired with innovative side dishes and an award-winning wine selection from around the world to create an upscale dining experience you won't find anywhere else in Iowa. 801 Chophouse is the premier steakhouse in Des Moines and even offers private dining room options. Book a reservation online or via phone today.
A photo of The Stuffed Olive - Des Moines restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(774)
Price: Moderate
• American • Des Moines
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 Proudfoot & Bird restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(678)
Price: Very Expensive
• Global, International • Des Moines
Fine Dining in every aspect. Proudfoot & Bird, named after the original Hotel Fort Des Moines architects, pays homage to the glamorous days of years past with every detail. Adorned with stunning marble tables, intricate gold ceiling inlay, plush soft seating, and grand circular bar we have recreated a time that was filled with elegance, extravagance, and indulgence. Housed in the historic Hotel Fort Des Moines, we have taken every step possible to protect a valued piece of Des Moines’ cherished history. Two semi-private areas available, seating eight and ten guests respectfully.
A photo of Mulberry Street Tavern restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(558)
Price: Expensive
• American • Des Moines
Mulberry Street Tavern brings a fresh yet nostalgic vibe to Downtown Des Moines. Once a hub for the city transit, it is now adorned with rich woods, leather, and a zinc bar that create a warm and timeless social destination. The open-hearth kitchen produces shareable worldly tavern fare, hearty entrees and, hands down, the best burger in Des Moines. Enjoy perfect classic cocktails, eclectic award-winning wines, and interesting regional and foreign beers on draught.
A photo of In Confidence Speakeasy restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(19)
Price: Moderate
• Speakeasy • Des Moines
For Large reservations or other inquiries please call 515-528-7733 x 4627 f=SPEAKEASY BAR IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN DES MOINESHotel Fort Des Moines brings the Prohibition-era feel to downtown Des Moines - In Confidence. Enjoy our hidden secret with a curated wine collection and crafted cocktails.Enjoy your downtime in a unique casual setting deserving of the Great Gatsby himself!
A photo of Splash Seafood Bar and Grill restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1955)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Downtown Des Moines
Splash Seafood Bar and Grill is a fun place because of its unique dining experience, as one reviewer said, 'Splash Seafood is a unique dining experience with Fresh Seafood, great service, and awesome atmosphere!!'. The ambiance is praised for being 'cool and modern' with a 'plethora of adult beverages', and the food, 'amazing! Freshest seafood in the Midwest'. Plus, the seafood is served in both traditional and contemporary styles, so there's something for everyone!
A photo of Tupelo Honey - Des Moines restaurant
4.0
Excellent(664)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Southern • Des Moines
Tupelo Honey is a revival of Southern food and traditions rooted in the Carolina Mountains we call home. We craft brunches, lunches and suppers that bring family and friends around the table and allow for conversations and cocktails to linger longer than usual. Please arrive on time with all members in your party present. We will cancel reservations 15 minutes after the scheduled time. The combining of separate reservations will not be honored. We look forward to seeing you soon!
A photo of Blue Sushi Sake Grill - Des Moines restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(204)
Price: Moderate
• Sushi • Des Moines
Blue Sushi Sake Grill unites creative ingredients with energetic vibes, premium cold sake with happy moments to give you a fresh and fun new way to experience sushi. Our sushi and grill menus allow you to explore your sushi favorites in new and unexpected ways. We like to say that sushi is for sharing, and our menu encourages it. Order a spread of all your maki, nigiri and sashimi favs from the sushi bar, and throw in a few orders of starters from the grill. We'll stagger your plates so you can savor it all bite-by-bite, and maximize the sushi experience you've been craving all week. If you're not sure where to start, tour the menu during Happy Hour, where all our guest favorites — from our sushi, grill and drink menus — are available at an amazing value. We offer Happy Hour every day of the week at Blue Sushi Sake Grill!
A photo of Alba Restaurant restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(404)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Des Moines
Alba offers a creative culinary twist on traditional American cuisine. Dishes are prepared using fresh seasonal ingredients, the finest cuts of meat, and the freshest fruits, vegetables and herbs. Our menu changes often, we invited you to join us to discover a new favorite.

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Discover best fun restaurants in Downtown Des Moines

Exploring the vibrant dining scene in Downtown Des Moines, Iowa, reveals a treasure trove of restaurants perfect for those searching for a fun and lively atmosphere. These eateries offer a dynamic range of culinary experiences that cater to diverse tastes and preferences, ensuring a memorable meal out in the heart of the city. From creative dishes that blend traditional flavors with modern twists to venues boasting unique and playful decors, each restaurant strives to provide an engaging and enjoyable environment. Patrons can expect not only exceptional food but also excellent service and an inviting ambiance that enhances the overall dining experience. These establishments emphasize fun as a central theme, making them ideal spots for social gatherings, celebrations, or even a casual night out. The culinary landscape in Downtown Des Moines is characterized by its ability to blend fun, food, and finesse, offering something special for every diner.

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