Location: West Des Moines
Top Restaurants in West Des Moines
West Des Moines Food Guide: 10 Must-Eat Restaurants & Street Food Stalls in West Des Moines
West Des Moines is a city in Polk, Dallas, and Warren counties in the U.S. state of Iowa. As of the 2010 census, the city population was 56,609. West Des Moines is the second-largest city in the Des Moines metropolitan area and the tenth-largest city in Iowa. It ranked 94th in Money magazine's list of the "100 Best Places to Live and Launch" in 2008, 77th and 57th on the 100 Best Places to Live in 2014 and 2015, respectively, and 18th on the Hipster Cities of 2015.
Things to do in West Des Moines
1. Iowa Machine Shed Restaurant
Overall Ratings
4 based on 717 reviews
Reviewed By beaglesruleNebraska - Nebraska
I stepped out of my box and tried something different this visit. I had the double stuffed pork chop with apple, raisin, bourbon stuffing. This was such a big meal I did not even eat half of one of the pork chops. The pork was so moist the bourbon sauce out of this world. We had great service. I will be back when I am in Des Moines
2. Mi Patria Ecuadorian Restaurant
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 223 reviews
Reviewed By Gerald F - Ankeny, Iowa
With another couple, we decided to try something different. Mi Patria is located in a strip mall near our friends home. Nothing fancy about the inside but the service was excellent and the food fantastic. Portions were very large allowing for each of us to take home leftovers. Prices were very reasonable with 4 of us eating for under $70.00(we did not order any alcohol but it is available). Will no doubt return soon.
3. Cool Basil
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 196 reviews
Reviewed By Rpod-lady - Ankeny, Iowa
Met a friend to talk business and she indicated previous positive experiences.
The decor is pleasing and is one of the most appealing Thai restaurants I've dined in. The outdoor patio was really quite nice. Every member of the staff was exceptionally pleasant. My colleague ordered Larb and said it was quite delicious. I had stir fry, and while it was visually appealing, the sauce missed the mark.
4. Waterfront Seafood Market
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 306 reviews
Reviewed By promopower - Des Moines, Iowa
Waterfront has been in business since 1984, in the hands of the same family the whole time. They pride themselves on bringing the freshest possible seafood to land-locked Iowa. Their standard menu is always good, but it's the daily specials where the kitchen shows off their skills. This trip I had a beautiful piece of mahi mahi, perfectly pan-fried, atop gnochi with jullienned vegetables in a delicious cream sauce. Prices are fair for the quality of the product and the service.
5. Mi Mexico
Overall Ratings
4 based on 156 reviews
Reviewed By stone595 - West Des Moines, Iowa
This place is amazing! Cheese enchiladas are the best I've ever had (and that includes TX & CA). Mole sauces are superb. Light cabbage slaw on most dishes is crunchy and delicious. Get the Original Margarita! Served in a personal shaker base with strainer. Enjoy!
6. The Cheese Shop
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 140 reviews
Reviewed By Tom B - Carroll, Iowa
Stopped for the first time Saturday, read some outstanding reviews. This place does not dissappoint, daughter had the "Breakfast" great sandwich, wife had Mac & cheese w/ bacon yum, and I had the Muffaletta WOW!
The staff was extremely helpful with our selections. Felt like I was in the "Cheers" of cheese shops.
7. Biaggi's Ristorante Italiano
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 243 reviews
Reviewed By Hound4 - Portage, Indiana
Restaurant was recommended to us by the manager of the campground where we were staying. I have to say that we were pleasantly surprised at the atmosphere of the restaurant when we entered. The restaurant appeared to be VERY high end, but as it turned out it was a little expensive but no so much that a family could have a meal there without breaking the bank. The food was done up very nicely. My wife had the Fettuccini with Lobster, and I had the FIlet Mignonette. Both meals were prepared right to our expectations. If you are in the West Des Moines IA area, I would highly recommend this restaurant.
8. Cracker Barrel
Overall Ratings
4 based on 221 reviews
Half Restaurant. Half Store. All Country
Reviewed By Aaron E - Rochester
My family and I love the Barrel. I love breakfast food, so this place is a must! The hashbrown casserole is savory and we enjoy their biscuits! I've never had a bad meal here. And my kids always clean their plates here which is rare!
9. Table 128 Bistro & Bar
Overall Ratings
4 based on 117 reviews
Reviewed By Marylou C - New York City, New York
I dread eating out because it's either a calorie disaster or the most boring "mixed salad with grilled chicken". Not so at Table 128 where there are several wonderful healthy alternatives, really diet friendly with a ton of creativity. Today, I actually asked them to cater to a business lunch. They were perfectly punctual and the food was beautifully served.
10. Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
Overall Ratings
4 based on 176 reviews
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill is located just east of Jordan Creek Town Center next to The Courtyard by Marriott. We offer authentic wood-fired steaks, seafood, specialty cocktails and select wines. Join us for Happy Hour Monday thru Friday from 4-6:30PM at the FIREBAR(R) or on the patio. We offer top-notch service and upscale dining at a modest price. Visit us online to learn more.
Reviewed By Jerri L - Des Moines, Iowa, United States
My sister in law was in town and wanted a healthy meal that met her dietary restrictions (gluten free, dairy free). I decided on Firebirds for their salmon. Other family members joined us for a pleasant evening. The jalapeño deviled eggs were great starters. We had a variety of wines and mixed drinks which were all fine. We had steak, salmon, the Colorado chicken salad and the seared tuna salad. Everything was cooked to perfection and delicious. The server Tomi was very friendly and knowledgeable. The atmosphere and surroundings were perfect for our family to visit and not be rushed out.
