Best Sandwich in Des Moines | Top 14 Spots

14 restaurants in Best Sandwich in Des Moines | Top 14 Spots

• Motley School Tavern — American: Motley School Tavern captures a sense of playful nostalgia, blending the cozy familiarity of a neighborhood hangout with a bold, imaginative take on American comfort food. The air hums with conversation as tables fill with vibrant plates of harissa-glazed carrots, smoky chicken wings, and golden sweet potato hush puppies that perfectly balance sweet and savory notes. From the creamy indulgence of pimento cheese to the elevated crunch of a thick-cut fried bologna sandwich, every dish offers a soulful, spirited journey through reinvented tavern classics.
• Palmer's Deli — American: Step into a vibrant neighborhood cornerstone where the rhythmic clatter of a busy kitchen and the scent of freshly toasted bread create an atmosphere of effortless warmth. The counter celebrates the art of the stacked sandwich, from the robust, savory layers of the Beef Eater and the Cowboy to the bright, crisp crunch of the Apple Orchard and garden-fresh market selections. It is a sanctuary for the lunchtime crowd, offering a soulful dining experience where every handcrafted creation feels like a flavorful tribute to classic deli traditions.
• Tom Archer's — American: Tom Archer’s captures the timeless allure of a classic American supper club, where the amber glow of a York Style Whiskey Sour sets the stage for an evening of nostalgic indulgence. The experience unfolds through layers of tradition, from the crisp, chilled snap of a heritage relish tray to the savory depth of Iowa premium beef and delicate, hand-rolled gnocchi. Whether tucked into a booth for the intimate Sweetheart’s Supper or enjoying a legendary French dip, guests are enveloped in an atmosphere of effortless hospitality that celebrates the art of the well-lived meal.
• Star Bar — American: This spirited neighborhood gem invites guests into a warm, bustling atmosphere where the comforting aroma of peppery gravy and buttery, golden-brown biscuits fills the air. Hearty plates of steak and mushroom hash share the table with delicate smoked salmon baguettes and vibrant goat cheese omelettes, creating a soulful brunch experience that perfectly balances rustic comfort with a modern, social energy.
• Either/Or — American: Either/Or pulses with a vibrant, communal energy, offering a stylish backdrop where eclectic small plates and elevated comfort classics take center stage. Guests linger over tables laden with everything from zesty Mexican cheese curds and delicate tuna poke to charred, smoky broccolini, creating a spirited dining experience that celebrates bold flavors and the joy of sharing.
• Charlotte's Kitchen — American: Charlotte’s Kitchen hums with a vibrant energy, where the enticing aroma of cayenne-spiced oil and golden-fried batter signals a masterclass in Southern-inspired comfort. Diners dive into towering Nashville hot chicken sandwiches that balance a fiery, spice-dusted crunch with juicy tenderness, perfectly complemented by the smoky char of crispy Brussels sprouts. The experience finds its cooling finale in scoops of velvety ice cream, offering a sweet, creamy reprieve from the bold heat of the kitchen’s signature creations.
• The Green Olive — Mediterranean: The air at this sun-drenched morning retreat is thick with the scent of sizzling ham and griddled batter, drawing locals in for a soulful start to the day. From the delicate fold of a sweet crepe to the robust, savory layers of a breakfast torta, every plate celebrates the comforting art of the classic breakfast in a space that feels like a warm neighborhood embrace.
• Palmer's Deli & Market — American: This vibrant neighborhood staple hums with the friendly energy of a local market, drawing guests in with the irresistible aroma of toasted rye and premium, hand-carved meats. Towering sandwiches like the hearty Cowboy and the crisp, refreshing Apple Orchard showcase a commitment to bold flavors and garden-fresh ingredients, all served in a bright, welcoming space. From the first savory bite of a classic Reuben to the last crumb of a signature club, every meal feels like a celebrated tradition in the heart of the community.
• Godfather's Pizza — Italian: This iconic pizza parlor invites guests into a world of hearty indulgence, where the air is thick with the savory scent of golden-baked crusts and bubbling mozzarella. From the zesty, lettuce-topped crunch of the signature Taco Pie to the towering layers of the All-Meat Combo, each slice delivers a bold, nostalgic feast designed for sharing around a crowded family table.
• Jason's Deli — American: A bustling neighborhood hub where the rhythmic sound of slicing deli meats and the lively hum of conversation create an inviting, high-energy atmosphere. Towering sandwiches layered with premium cuts and crisp vegetables take center stage, served alongside signature pickles that offer a satisfying, vinegary snap with every bite. Whether gathering for a seamless group feast or treating the little ones to a playful meal, the experience captures the timeless charm of a classic deli where fresh ingredients and generous portions are always the main attraction.
• Krispy Krunchy Chicken — American: The air is thick with the savory, spiced aroma of golden-brown poultry frying to a perfect, shatteringly crisp finish. Each piece of hand-breaded chicken and jumbo tender offers a satisfying contrast between its rugged, seasoned exterior and the succulent, steaming meat within. It is a haven for those seeking the ultimate comfort of a classic fried chicken meal, where every bite delivers a bold, salty crunch that defines the quintessential quick-service indulgence.
• Lucca — Italian: Lucca serves as a sun-drenched sanctuary for the midday crowd, where the crisp snap of garden-fresh greens and the comforting aroma of toasted artisan bread fill the air. The kitchen artfully balances lightness and indulgence, layering vibrant salads with seasonal squash and tangy dressings alongside sophisticated sandwiches featuring creamy brie or zesty Cajun-spiced tuna. It is a refined neighborhood gem that celebrates the beauty of fresh ingredients, offering a polished yet relaxed space to enjoy a truly elevated meal.
• Tavern Pizza & Pasta Grill — Italian: This lively neighborhood gathering spot wraps guests in the comforting aromas of bubbling cheese and golden, house-made appetizers like crispy onion rings and flash-fried green peppers. The kitchen breathes new life into tradition with inventive creations like the sweet-and-spicy hot honey pepperoni pizza and hearty bowls of pasta swirled in a rich, "secret" family sauce. Whether you’re tucking into a savory Italian roast beef pizza or a smoky BBQ pulled pork sandwich, the experience is one of unpretentious warmth and soulful, satisfying flavors.
• Village Inn — American: This welcoming neighborhood hub radiates a timeless charm, where the comforting sizzle of the griddle and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee invite guests to linger over fluffy, golden omelettes and artisan-style sandwiches. The heart of the experience lies in the gleaming dessert case, a vibrant gallery of flaky-crusted pies and decadent cakes that promises a sweet, nostalgic finish to every meal. From crisp, garden-fresh salads to wholesome family feasts prepared for the journey home, every dish captures the simple, soul-warming essence of classic American hospitality.