The 3 best new restaurants in Des Moines, according to our readers

Calling all foodies in Des Moines! The results are in from our readers’ choice poll, and we have the inside scoop on the best new restaurants in town.

From cozy cafes to upscale dining experiences, Des Moines is blooming with fresh culinary talent. So without further ado, let’s dive into the top three spots that have captured the hearts (and taste buds) of locals. Get ready to discover the best new restaurants in Des Moines.

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3. The Stuffed Olive

Sliding into our lineup of Des Moines’ culinary marvels is The Stuffed Olive, a spot that’s quickly become the talk of the town for those in the know. Here, comfort food becomes a masterpiece, a canvas of familiar flavors. But the colorful dishes are not the star of the show. Look over at the extensive, imaginative cocktail menu, and you’ll uncover where this spot got its name. That’s The Stuffed Olive, where cocktail art is taken to new, exhilarating heights.

What truly sets The Stuffed Olive apart is the innovative menu promising a bold ensemble of flavors from around the globe. Traditional dishes are reimagined with a twist, blending familiar flavors with upscale presentation. The chefs behind The Stuffed Olive are culinary wizards, blending the familiar with the fantastic, leading to creations that are both comforting and thrilling. 

It’s not just the food that draws people to The Stuffed Olive, it’s the entire dining experience. The ambiance strikes the perfect balance between cozy and chic, making it the ideal backdrop for everything from a romantic dinner to a casual catch-up with friends. Every visit feels like a special occasion.

But perhaps the most compelling aspect of The Stuffed Olive is its commitment to cocktail innovation. The beverage menu is a masterpiece, a step back into the past with classics that will surprise you with their flavorful blends and a step into the future with their unique upscale creations. It’s this passion for creating something truly special that keeps people coming back for more.

So, if your taste buds are clamoring for a journey of discovery, The Stuffed Olive is waiting to welcome you with open arms and a menu that promises an explosion of flavor in every bite.

2. Homegrown Kitchen

Rolling into the number two spot with a charm that’s as fresh as its ingredients, Homegrown Kitchen has quickly carved out its own niche in the Des Moines dining scene. It’s a love letter to Iowa’s farmers, bakers, and local markets, and the power of community support. If you’ve ever wondered what it means to eat seasonally and locally, Homegrown Kitchen is ready to show you in each mouthwatering dish.

Walking into Homegrown Kitchen feels like stepping into a warm modern diner, where everyone knows your name. Every meal here is a celebration of Iowa’s harvests. The menu is a mosaic of cozy flavors, changing with the seasons to ensure that every breakfast, brunch, or lunch is unique. Whether it’s a sun-kissed tomato in the heat of summer or the earthy sweetness of root vegetables in the chill of winter, Homegrown Kitchen turns the best of the local produce into dishes that are as comforting as a quilt.

The chefs work closely with local farmers, turning the spotlight on the heroes who till the soil and sow the seeds. This collaboration not only brings the freshest flavors to your plate but also nurtures the local economy. Using local teas, locally baked breads, and local distilleries also speaks to the culture of support behind Homegrown’s philosophy.

In a city that’s becoming known for its food scene, Homegrown Kitchen showcases what’s possible when a community works together. Every breakfast, brunch, and lunch here is an experience that feeds the soul as well as the stomach. So, the next time you find yourself in Des Moines, take a detour to Homegrown Kitchen. You might just leave with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and flavor of Iowa’s homegrown treasures.

1. Oak Park

Oak Park is a chef’s table revolution. This chic eatery has quickly ascended to the top of every local foodie’s must-visit list, thanks to its elevated dishes and atmosphere, carefully curated wine program, and attention to detail. Oak Park is a treasure trove for elite dining, serving up a menu that’s as diverse as it is delicious. Think caviar, the best scallops you’ve ever tasted, and a sophisticated vegetarian Wellington. 

What truly sets Oak Park apart, however, is its unwavering commitment to using fresh, seasonal ingredients that play beautifully with one another on an artistic plate. “Locally sourced” means fresh greens and veggies from the garden right in their backyard and a prairie project in the works that will expand on their farm-to-table program while building a fresh food source for the community.

And let’s not forget about the atmosphere. Oak Park has mastered the art of ambiance, crafting a space that’s elegant and comfortable, raising the bar for a memorable experience. It’s the kind of place where you can celebrate life’s milestones without feeling like you’ve skimped or sacrificed quality or sophistication.

In a city brimming with delicious adventures, Oak Park shines as the number one destination for culinary excellence. A visit here is a journey through the flavors of the Des Moines prairie, the sea, and the creative minds of the top chefs in the state, leaving you enriched, satisfied, and eager for more. So, ready your taste buds and leave any preconceived notions at the door — Oak Park is here to redefine what dining in Des Moines can be.

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