Best Soul Food Restaurants in Des Moines | Top Rated Soul Food Food

28 restaurants in Best Soul Food Restaurants in Des Moines | Top Rated Soul Food Food

• The Station on Ingersoll — American · rated 4/5: This lively neighborhood haunt hums with a welcoming energy, where the golden glow of the bar invites friends to gather over plates of inventive, shareable comfort food. The kitchen reimagines pub classics with a playful spirit, serving up everything from crispy, salt-dusted pretzel bites to decadent crab rangoon nachos that balance savory crunch with creamy, coastal flair. Whether you're diving into a basket of zesty pickle fries or savoring perfectly charred wings, every bite captures the soulful, unpretentious joy of a true local favorite.
• Exile Brewing Company — American · rated 4/5: Housed in a sprawling, historic warehouse, this vibrant brewery pulses with an industrial-chic energy where the aroma of toasted malt meets the savory sizzle of golden-fried schnitzel and gourmet burgers. Gleaming fermentation tanks serve as a backdrop to lively communal tables, where guests toast with crisp, house-brewed lagers and enjoy a spirited atmosphere that celebrates the intersection of local craft and bold, elevated comfort food.
• Gateway Market Café — American · rated 4/5: This sun-drenched culinary hub pulses with the vibrant energy of a gourmet marketplace, where the enticing aromas of artisanal baking and freshly roasted coffee drift through an airy, modern space. The kitchen masterfully elevates seasonal ingredients into soul-warming comfort food and bright, globally-inspired plates, creating a lively atmosphere where casual neighborhood charm meets sophisticated urban flavor.
• Shotgun Betty's — American · rated 3/5: Shotgun Betty’s radiates a rebellious, high-energy charm, blending the rustic soul of a classic roadhouse with a vibrant, contemporary pulse. Guests are swept into a whirlwind of bold flavors and spirited hospitality, where hearty, fire-kissed comfort food takes center stage amidst a backdrop of clinking glasses and soulful music.
• 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.
• Lachele's Fine Foods — American: Lachele's Fine Foods reimagines the classic neighborhood burger joint as a vibrant, retro-cool sanctuary where the rhythmic press of the spatula against a hot griddle yields perfectly charred, lacy-edged smash burgers. Each bite balances nostalgic comfort with elevated craftsmanship, pairing pillowy toasted buns and savory, inventive toppings with a bustling atmosphere that celebrates the unpretentious joy of a meal well-made.
• Flying Mango — American: The air at Flying Mango hangs heavy with the intoxicating scent of slow-smoked brisket and Caribbean spices, drawing guests into a vibrant, soulful space where Southern comfort meets island flair. Tender, wood-fired meats fall off the bone alongside zesty, tropical-infused sides, creating a symphony of bold flavors that feel both deeply nostalgic and refreshingly exotic. This spirited sanctuary invites diners to linger amidst eclectic decor and heartfelt hospitality, making every meal feel like a soulful celebration of smoke and spice.
• 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.
• Lucky Lotus — Chinese: Bathed in the warm, golden glow of paper lanterns, this vibrant retreat invites guests to linger over plates that burst with the bright, zesty aromatics of Eastern-inspired soul food. From the rhythmic sizzle of the wok to the delicate crunch of garden-fresh herbs, the kitchen masterfully balances heat and harmony to create a dining experience that feels like a spirited celebration of flavor. Every meal unfolds as a sensory journey through bustling night markets and serene gardens, offering a soulful escape that is both timeless and refreshingly modern.
• Lachele's Fine Foods + The Fitz — American: Step into a space where the nostalgic energy of a classic neighborhood diner seamlessly transitions into the sultry, low-lit allure of a sophisticated cocktail lounge. Savor the crunch of perfectly seared smash burgers and golden, salt-dusted fries before slipping into a plush booth at The Fitz for an expertly shaken craft cocktail. It is a vibrant dual-concept destination where the comforting sizzle of the griddle meets the refined clink of crystal, offering a seamless journey from casual daytime indulgence to intimate evening elegance.
• Angry Goldfish Pub & Eatery — American: This vibrant neighborhood hub radiates a welcoming warmth, where the rhythmic clink of pint glasses and the aroma of sizzling, elevated comfort food fill the air. Guests settle into the cozy, unpretentious space to enjoy a menu that breathes new life into pub classics, making every visit feel like a spirited celebration of good company and bold flavors.
• Zombie Burger & Drink Lab — American: Step into a high-energy culinary laboratory where post-apocalyptic grit meets playful pop-culture nostalgia, creating a vibrant backdrop for bold, boundary-pushing comfort food. The kitchen turns out monstrously creative plates like crispy, loaded tots and fiery "Atomic" edamame, delivering a symphony of crunch and spice that pairs perfectly with their inventive, over-the-top burger creations. Every visit feels like a thrilling, flavor-packed adventure, inviting diners to embrace the unconventional in a setting that is as spirited as it is delicious.
• Malo — Mexican: Malo pulses with a vibrant energy, inviting guests to gather over communal plates of bubbling queso fundido and towering, inventive nachos that redefine modern comfort food. The kitchen masterfully balances salty indulgence with coastal freshness, pairing crispy pork belly pupusas and golden fried shrimp tacos with the bright, citrus-forward zing of chilled shrimp ceviche and perfectly seared tuna. It is a spirited destination where bold textures and playful Latin-inspired flavors create a dining experience that feels like a continuous celebration.
• Mad Meatball — Italian: This vibrant social hub buzzes with energy as plates of golden-fried ravioli and zesty buffalo chicken poppers travel from the kitchen to tables filled with laughter. The air carries the irresistible aroma of toasted garlic and molten cheese, setting the stage for a feast of indulgent comfort food anchored by their signature, savory meatballs. It is a place where every bite—from the satisfying crunch of Idaho nachos to the earthy richness of stuffed portabellos—invites guests to linger and share in a truly spirited dining experience.
• Burger Shed — American: This rustic-chic retreat captures the essence of backyard comfort, where the savory aroma of flame-grilled beef mingles with the golden crunch of hand-cut fries. Guests settle into reclaimed wood booths to savor towering, juice-dripping burgers crafted with artisanal flair, making every bite a soulful celebration of unpretentious, elevated comfort food.
• Cozy Cafe — American: Sunlight dances across rustic wooden tables in this intimate neighborhood retreat, where the rich aroma of freshly ground beans and the warmth of golden, flaky pastries invite a slower pace of life. It is a soulful sanctuary where guests can lose themselves in a book or a quiet conversation, all while savoring artisanal brews and seasonal comfort food crafted with heart.
• Banana Leaf Asian Bistro — Thai: Stepping into this vibrant bistro feels like a journey to the heart of Southeast Asia, where the air is thick with the fragrant perfume of lemongrass and sizzling ginger. Vibrant dishes arrive artfully presented on emerald banana leaves, offering a symphony of bold spices and fresh ingredients that bridge the gap between traditional street-food soul and modern culinary flair. It is a lively, sun-drenched space where the rhythmic clatter of woks and the warmth of shared plates create an inviting sanctuary for those seeking an authentic taste of the East.
• Buzzard Billy's — American: Vibrant neon signs and eclectic swamp-shack decor set the stage for a spirited journey to the heart of the Bayou, where the air is thick with the savory promise of Cajun spices. Heaping platters of zesty jambalaya and golden-fried alligator tail bring the bold, soulful flavors of the Gulf Coast to life, creating a festive atmosphere where Southern hospitality and authentic Creole comfort reign supreme.
• Louie's Wine Dive — American: This vibrant neighborhood sanctuary pulses with a convivial energy, where walls lined with curated bottles and the rhythmic clinking of glasses set the stage for an unpretentious yet sophisticated evening. The kitchen turns out bold, soul-warming comfort food like their signature velvet-soft gnocchi, perfectly paired with an eclectic wine list designed to invite discovery and linger over long, laughter-filled dinners.
• The Cub Club — American: Tucked away like a well-kept secret, The Cub Club invites guests into a dimly lit sanctuary of plush velvet booths and burnished gold accents. The rhythmic shake of artisanal cocktails mingles with the low hum of conversation, creating an intimate den where elevated comfort food and craft spirits turn every evening into a sophisticated escape.
• Hy-Vee Market Grille — American: This bustling neighborhood gathering spot seamlessly blends the convenience of a local market with the warmth of a classic American grill, inviting guests into a bright, relaxed space filled with the aroma of charbroiled favorites. Hearty comfort food takes center stage, featuring everything from succulent, hand-crafted burgers to vibrant seasonal salads, all served with a genuine sense of hospitality that makes every meal feel like a homecoming.
• Tipsy Crow Tavern — American: This spirited neighborhood haunt wraps guests in a warm embrace of dark wood and flickering candlelight, where the rhythmic clink of glassware provides a lively soundtrack to the evening. The kitchen elevates the art of the tavern with bold, savory flavors and comforting classics that pair perfectly with a curated selection of craft brews and stiff, well-balanced cocktails. Whether tucked into a cozy corner booth or gathered around the bustling bar, diners find a welcoming retreat that celebrates the timeless joy of good company and honest, soulful food.
• What the Fries — American: This high-energy urban haunt transforms the humble potato into a decadent canvas for culinary creativity, where the irresistible aroma of golden, hand-cut fries and bubbling, savory sauces fills the air. Each plate arrives as a towering masterpiece of crispy textures and bold flavors, layering everything from succulent braised meats to artisanal cheeses in a playful, indulgent celebration of modern comfort food.
• Rolling Wok Cafe — Chinese: The air at Rolling Wok Cafe hums with the rhythmic sizzle of the wok and the savory aroma of golden-fried treasures, inviting guests into a lively space where comfort food takes center stage. From the satisfying crunch of hand-rolled spring rolls to the tender, glazed richness of pork riblets and "heavenly" beef jerky, every dish celebrates bold, nostalgic flavors designed for sharing. It is a neighborhood gem where the simple joy of a perfectly crisped pot sticker or a creamy crab rangoon turns a casual meal into a soulful, sensory feast.
• HomeGrown — American: Sunlight pours into this vibrant neighborhood hub, where the hum of cheerful conversation and the scent of freshly brewed coffee invite guests to linger over plates that celebrate the local harvest. Every dish showcases the honest, seasonal flavors of the region, turning farm-fresh ingredients into soul-warming comfort food that feels both elevated and deeply familiar.
• Tito's Lounge — Mexican: Tito’s Lounge hums with a vibrant, social energy, inviting guests to settle into a space where the clink of glasses meets the irresistible aroma of golden-fried favorites and sizzling shareable plates. From the zesty crunch of firecracker shrimp to towering mounds of loaded nachos and savory, cheese-filled quesadillas, the kitchen turns out elevated comfort food designed for communal indulgence. This lively retreat blends the casual warmth of a neighborhood hangout with a spirited atmosphere, making it the ultimate destination for shared bites and late-night cravings.
• Village Inn — American: Step into a nostalgic haven where the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and griddled pancakes fills the air, inviting guests to settle into cozy booths for a timeless neighborhood experience. From towering stacks of buttermilk breakfast favorites to the legendary, flaky-crusted pies cooling behind the counter, every dish celebrates the simple joy of classic American comfort food served with a side of genuine warmth.
• Bakers Square — American: The inviting aroma of golden, buttery crusts and slow-simmered comfort food greets guests at this neighborhood landmark, where cozy booths and warm lighting create a sanctuary for casual connection. A gleaming display case showcases an artistry of towering meringues and vibrant fruit fillings, inviting diners to linger over a decadent slice of pie and a steaming cup of coffee.