Iowa is a heartland state of rolling prairies, covered bridges, and charming small cities anchored by a surprisingly vibrant Des Moines arts and food scene. Home to the world-famous Iowa State Fair, Grant Wood country, the Field of Dreams movie site, and the historic Amana Colonies, Iowa rewards visitors who look beyond the cornfields to find genuine Midwestern character.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Proof Restaurant
Popular Contemporary American restaurant in Iowa.
Known for: Farm-to-table fine dining with rotating seasonal menus sourcing from Iowa farms
1301 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
Popular American / Burgers restaurant in Iowa.
Known for: Horror-movie-themed creative burgers and shakes in a fun East Village atmosphere
300 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
Devotay
Popular Spanish / Mediterranean Tapas restaurant in Iowa.
Known for: Award-winning tapas with natural wine; one of Iowa City's most celebrated restaurants
117 N Linn St, Iowa City, IA 52245
Centro
Popular Italian-American restaurant in Iowa.
Known for: Downtown Des Moines institution with wood-fired oven and a lively bar scene
1003 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Django
Popular French Bistro restaurant in Iowa.
Known for: Acclaimed Des Moines French bistro with classic dishes and one of the city's best wine lists
1420 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Los Laureles
Popular Mexican / Tacos restaurant in Iowa.
Known for: Authentic Mexican taqueria on Beaver Ave, beloved by locals for the best tacos in Des Moines
2429 Beaver Ave, Des Moines, IA 50310
Orchestrate Hospitality Group — Waterfront
Popular American / Seafood restaurant in Iowa.
Known for: Des Moines' go-to for fresh seafood flown in daily; popular for business lunches and celebrations
2900 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311
Scenic Route Bakery
Popular Bakery / Breakfast restaurant in Iowa.
Known for: Community-driven neighborhood bakery with outstanding pastries and breakfast sandwiches
1117 Pleasant St, Des Moines, IA 50314
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
American
Proof Restaurant
Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
Pullman Bar & Diner
Café Beaudelaire
Lincoln Café
Starlite Room at Hotel Fort Des Moines
Eatery A
Star Bar
Smokey D's BBQ
High Life Lounge
Iowa Machine Shed
Cobble Hill
Mexican
Los Laureles
Tasty Tacos
La Querencia
Rudy's Tacos
Italian
Centro
Baratta's
Bakery
Scenic Route Bakery
Diverse
NewBo City Market Food Hall
French
Django
German
Ox Yoke Inn
Mediterranean
Sbrocco Wine Bar
Seafood
Orchestrate Hospitality Group — Waterfront
Spanish
Devotay
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Tipping practices vary — check local customs. Service charge is often included.
Restaurants may close between lunch and dinner. Plan meals around local dining hours.
Popular restaurants may not take reservations — arrive early or be prepared to wait.
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $5-15/meal | Street food, local eateries, and simple restaurants. |
| Mid-range | $15-40/meal | Sit-down restaurants with good service and varied menus. |
| Upscale | $40+/meal | Fine dining, international cuisine, and premium experiences. |