Best Authentic Restaurants in Downtown Des Moines
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- $30 and under
- $31 to $50
- $50 and over
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7 restaurants available nearby
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See what locals rave about
- CChelseyIowa •1 review5.0Dined 1 day agoGreat food, great service. We had reservations and it was very quick.More infoThe Latin KingPrice: Moderate• Italian• Des Moines•4.7
- KKadenPhiladelphia County •1 review5.0Dined 2 days agoBar Nico is by far and away my favorite restaurant in the Des Moines area. Chef Matt does such a great job changing up his menu seasonally. He does such a great job of blending texture, flavor, spice, all into one amazing dish and the drink selection is incredible and innovative just like the dishes. His staff is also absolutely amazing and very hospitable and professional. Bar Nico does all of this while being 100% gluten free! If you have celiac disease or a reaction to gluten this place is the place for you! I know from experience a lot of times gluten-free dishes don’t taste as good or close to what you may have had before my celiac diagnosis. However, as I mentioned before this restaurant does not cut any corners, and the food is as authentic as it can be! Again, recommend 10 out of 10 times! We have gone several times and are planning to go even more! Hats off to chef Matt and his staff!More infoBar NicoPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Des Moines•4.7
- MMeganChicago / Illinois •4 reviews5.0Dined 2 days agoWe had a great dinner on Valentines Day! It was the perfect mix of quiet, cozy, moody, relaxed with just a hint of fine dining and exactly what we were looking for. My husband had an old fashioned which he said was really good. I had the 5 option charcuterie spread and he had the hot honey wood fire pizza. Both were *chefs kiss*. We will definitely be back!More infoEatery APrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• Des Moines•4.8
- TTerryIowa •1 review4.0Dined on Feb 8, 2025We did not order food but had to rate it regardless. Great ambience! However, music MUST be soft jazz for a true speak easy, not pop or whatever was playing! Ruined the atmosphere!More infoIn Confidence SpeakeasyPrice: Moderate• Speakeasy• Des Moines•4.3
- DDrewSan Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews5.0Dined on Feb 5, 2025Nothing but love for this authentic and wonderfully tasty spot. It’s nestled inconspicuously between a pancheros and a firehouse sub but that makes finding this gem that much more rewarding when you see just how amazing the their selection of food is, and how amazing it all tastes.More infoPanka Peruvian RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Peruvian• Des Moines•4.8
Discover best authentic restaurants in Downtown Des Moines
Downtown Des Moines, Iowa, is a vibrant hub for authentic dining experiences that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. This area boasts a collection of restaurants that truly embody the essence of authenticity, offering a range of cuisines that highlight traditional cooking methods and indigenous ingredients. Each restaurant in this locale prides itself on creating dishes that not only respect but also celebrate their culinary heritage, providing diners with a genuine taste of their unique flavors. The dining scene in Downtown Des Moines is characterized by its dedication to quality and authenticity, making it a premier destination for food enthusiasts searching for an original dining experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these establishments ensure a memorable meal with every visit, underscored by warm hospitality and an inviting atmosphere. This curated list of authentic restaurants meets rigorous standards of quality and service, ensuring that every recommendation is reliable and worthy of your patronage.