Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Des Moines, Iowa, United States
1. Iowa-Style Pork Tenderloin (Papa Richie's)
A breaded pork loin sandwich served on a large bun, a local favorite. Try it at Papa Richie's, where they've been serving since 1978.
- Authenticity: One of the earliest establishments serving this iconic dish
- Size: Generous portions that satisfy even the heartiest appetites
- Local Pride: A dish that embodies Iowa culinary tradition
2. Nachos Deluxe (El Bandito Loco)
Gourmet nachos loaded with various toppings, from traditional cheese and jalapenos to unique options like pulled pork. Try them at El Bandito Loco, a vibrant Mexican restaurant.
- Creativity: Innovative toppings that set their nachos apart
- Variety: Multiple options to cater to different taste preferences
- Atmosphere: A lively and colorful setting for an enjoyable dining experience
3. Fried Butterfly Shrimp (Jethro's BBQ)
Crispy fried shrimp presented in the form of butterflies. Don't miss them at Jethro's BBQ, known for their mouthwatering barbecue and unique seafood options.
- Presentation: Uniquely shaped shrimp that are visually appealing
- Flavor: Crispy exterior with juicy, flavorful shrimp inside
- Pairing: Perfectly complements their award-winning barbecue offerings
4. Famous Lemon Meringue Pie (Pie Five)
A classic lemon meringue pie with a flaky crust and creamy filling. Enjoy it at Pie Five, where you can customize your pie from scratch.
- Customization: Allow customers to create their perfect pie
- Quality: High-quality ingredients used in every pie
- Variety: Over 30 flavors of pies to choose from
5. Pork Belly Burnt Ends (Bone in the Rough)
Slow-smoked pork belly served as burnt ends, a Kansas City BBQ staple. Visit Bone in the Rough for their expertly prepared smoked meats.
- Smoke Technique: Wood-smoked for hours to achieve the perfect texture
- Taste: Melt-in-your-mouth tender with a smoky, sweet flavor
- Presentation: Served on a bed of coleslaw for an eye-catching presentation
6. Cornmeal Crusted Walleye (Django's Seafood Grill)
A light and flaky cornmeal-crusted walleye served with a tangy lemon dill beurre blanc. Savor it at Django's Seafood Grill, offering fresh seafood and river views.
- Freshness: Freshly caught fish used daily
- Taste: A delightful combination of flavors and textures
- View: Riverfront dining adds to the overall experience
7. St. Louis-Style Ribs (Hickory Park)
Tender, fall-off-the-bone St. Louis-style ribs smothered in their famous homemade barbecue sauce. Try them at Hickory Park, a Des Moines staple since 1985.
- Tradition: A long-standing restaurant that has perfected their ribs
- Taste: Sweet and smoky sauce with perfectly cooked ribs
- Portion Size: Generous servings that satisfy even the biggest appetites
8. Roasted Duck Breast (The Drake)
A perfectly cooked duck breast served with a cherry-port reduction sauce. Savor it at The Drake, a sophisticated restaurant known for their upscale fare.
- Quality: High-quality ingredients sourced locally
- Preparation: Expertly cooked to perfection
- Atmosphere: Elegant surroundings for a memorable dining experience
9. Mama Mia's Pizza (Mama Mia's Italian Cafe)
A classic thin-crust pizza with fresh toppings made in-house. Don't miss Mama Mia's at their namesake restaurant, offering a variety of delicious pizzas.
- Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients used in every pizza
- Taste: Delicious blend of flavors with a crispy crust
- Variety: Numerous pizza options to cater to different preferences
10. Fried Chicken (The Diner by the Des Moines Social Club)
Crispy fried chicken served with sides like mashed potatoes and green beans. Visit The Diner for their comforting Southern-style dishes.
- Taste: Crispy exterior and juicy, tender interior
- Comfort Food: A hearty, home-cooked meal
- Atmosphere: Modern and inviting setting for a comfortable dining experience
11. Taco Trio (Centro Mexican Restaurant)
A selection of three tacos showcasing different proteins and flavors. Savor them at Centro Mexican Restaurant, known for their authentic Mexican cuisine.
- Variety: Three unique taco options to explore
- Flavor: Bold, authentic flavors that tantalize the taste buds
- Atmosphere: Warm and inviting ambiance for a memorable dining experience
12. Pork Chops (White House Café)
Juicy, tender pork chops served with mashed potatoes and gravy. Visit White House Café for their hearty Midwestern fare.
- Taste: Moist, flavorful pork chops
- Comfort Food: A classic comfort food dish
- Atmosphere: Cozy, rustic setting for a charming dining experience
13. Iowa Waffle (Waffle Love)
A sweet and savory waffle sandwich filled with your choice of ingredients. Visit Waffle Love for a unique and delicious breakfast or lunch option.
- Creativity: Innovative combination of sweet and savory flavors
- Customization: Endless possibilities for unique waffle combinations
- Taste: Delicious and satisfying waffle sandwiches
14. Iowa Sweet Corn (Valley Oaks Farm Market)
Fresh, sweet Iowa corn on the cob. Visit Valley Oaks Farm Market to enjoy this local staple during the summer months.
- Local Source: Directly from a local farm for maximum freshness
- Taste: Sweet, juicy corn that's worth the wait
- Seasonality: Available during the summer months only
15. Iowa Walleye Burger (The Buzzard's Roost)
A unique walleye burger served on a bun with your choice of toppings. Try it at The Buzzard's Roost, known for their creative takes on fish dishes.
- Creativity: Innovative use of walleye in a burger
- Taste: Flavorful and satisfying with your choice of toppings
- Atmosphere: Casual, inviting setting for a relaxing meal