Best Upscale Polish Restaurants in Des Moines | Upscale Polish Food

23 restaurants in Best Upscale Polish Restaurants in Des Moines | Upscale Polish Food

• The Greenwood Lounge — American · rated 4/5: This verdant urban retreat envelops guests in a world of deep emerald velvets and polished mahogany, where the soft glow of candlelight sets the stage for an evening of sophisticated indulgence. Masterfully shaken botanical cocktails and artful small plates arrive at intimate tables, offering a sensory journey that balances earthy, seasonal flavors with a touch of modern whimsy. It is a soulful sanctuary that invites you to lose track of time, wrapped in an atmosphere of timeless charm and effortless cool.
• Wellman's Pub — American · rated 3/5: Bathed in the warm glow of amber lights and the spirited hum of local conversation, Wellman's Pub serves as a quintessential neighborhood sanctuary where the scent of sizzling comfort fare mingles with the crisp aroma of cold ales. Polished wood accents and cozy booths invite guests to linger over elevated tavern classics, creating a vibrant yet soulful atmosphere where every visit feels like a homecoming.
• Range Grill & Golf — American: Polished greens and high-tech simulators meet the warm glow of a refined lounge at Range Grill & Golf, where the rhythmic thwack of a perfect drive harmonizes with the lively hum of a modern social club. Expertly shaken house cocktails and pours of rare, amber-hued special reserve whiskeys provide a sophisticated counterpoint to the high-energy play, inviting guests to linger in plush surroundings long after the final hole.
• Chicago Speakeasy — Steakhouse: Step through a nondescript entrance into a world of Prohibition-era glamour, where dim amber lighting glows against polished mahogany and plush velvet booths. The air hums with the rhythm of live jazz as bartenders masterfully stir spirit-forward cocktails, pairing them with hearty, soul-warming plates that evoke the bold spirit of the Windy City.
• Chuck's — American: Bathed in the warm glow of amber lighting and the nostalgic hum of a bustling neighborhood haunt, Chuck's invites guests to sink into plush leather booths where the air is rich with the savory scent of flame-grilled classics. The kitchen elevates the spirit of the American grill, transforming premium cuts and seasonal harvests into soulful plates that celebrate bold, honest flavors. Whether enjoying a crisp cocktail at the polished wood bar or a lingering dinner shared among friends, the experience feels like a timeless celebration of comfort and craft.
• Corazon Coffee Roasters — Mexican: The air at Corazon Coffee Roasters is thick with the intoxicating perfume of beans being toasted to perfection, drawing guests into a sun-drenched space where industrial chic meets heartfelt hospitality. Skilled baristas transform small-batch roasts into velvety lattes and bright, complex pour-overs that celebrate the soul of the bean, served over polished wood counters. It is a vibrant sanctuary for the senses, where the rhythmic hum of the roaster provides a steady heartbeat for a community gathered over steaming mugs and shared conversation.
• Alba Restaurant — Italian: Alba Restaurant glows with a sophisticated yet soulful energy, where the botanical notes of a Violet Beauregard cocktail and the convivial hum of a lively happy hour invite guests to settle in and linger. The kitchen masters the art of elevated comfort, pairing tender, wine-braised lamb shanks and crisp pan-roasted halibut with playful starters like creamy deviled eggs and jewel-toned beet salads. From the refined elegance of a marinated hanger steak to the communal joy of a signature Monday night burger, every meal is a masterclass in balanced flavors and polished neighborhood hospitality.
• Friedrichs Coffee — American: The rich, nutty aroma of small-batch beans roasted on-site envelops guests the moment they step into this inviting sanctuary of caffeine and craft. Sunlight streams across polished wood counters where baristas meticulously pull velvety espresso shots and steam silken milk, creating a rhythmic symphony of clinking ceramic and quiet conversation. It is a neighborhood cornerstone where the art of the brew is celebrated in every hand-poured cup, offering a warm retreat for both focused morning rituals and lingering afternoon breaks.
• Gilroy's — American: Gilroy’s serves as a polished neighborhood anchor where amber lighting and rich textures invite guests to linger over a soulful menu of refined American classics. The kitchen balances rustic charm with modern flair, delivering perfectly seared proteins and garden-fresh sides that turn a familiar meal into a vibrant, sensory celebration.
• 801 Chophouse — Steakhouse: This premier destination exudes the timeless glamour of a classic American chophouse, where the clink of crystal and the hum of lively conversation fill a space defined by rich textures and polished sophistication. The kitchen elevates the art of the starter, presenting everything from briny oysters Rockefeller and buttery Maryland jumbo lump crab cakes to the primal decadence of roasted marrow bones. Each plate arrives as a masterclass in indulgence, inviting guests to linger over tender Spanish octopus or delicate scallop Benedict in an atmosphere that celebrates the pinnacle of refined dining.
• Irina's Steak & Seafood — Steakhouse: Irina’s Steak & Seafood invites guests into a refined sanctuary where the warm glow of candlelight dances across polished surfaces and the air is thick with the savory perfume of seared prime cuts. The kitchen balances the rugged intensity of perfectly charred steaks with the delicate, briny elegance of the ocean’s finest catches, creating a symphony of flavors that feels both indulgent and timeless. Whether lingering over a chilled seafood tower or savoring a robust vintage by the hearth, diners find themselves enveloped in an atmosphere of effortless sophistication and culinary mastery.
• Johnny's Italian Steakhouse — Steakhouse: Stepping into this sophisticated retreat feels like a journey back to the golden age of dining, where velvet booths and soft lighting set the stage for an evening of timeless indulgence. The air carries the savory perfume of sizzling Italian sausage and garlic-rubbed bruschetta, while the kitchen turns out decadent treasures ranging from golden-brown toasted ravioli to buttery mini beef Wellingtons. This polished destination seamlessly blends the soulful warmth of a traditional Italian kitchen with the refined elegance of a classic steakhouse, inviting guests to linger over chilled shrimp cocktails and perfectly seared scallops.
• Red Rossa — Italian: The warm glow of a wood-fired hearth anchors this vibrant eatery, where the aroma of charred crust and simmering sauces creates an immediate sense of rustic comfort. Guests gather in a polished yet relaxed setting to savor artisan pizzas topped with premium ingredients and hearty, flame-kissed dishes that bring a modern spark to traditional Italian-inspired flavors.
• Table 128 Bistro & Bar — American: Soft amber lighting and the rhythmic shake of cocktails set the stage at this polished neighborhood gem, where modern elegance meets a welcoming, convivial spirit. Seasonal ingredients take center stage in thoughtfully composed plates that balance bold, contemporary flavors with the comforting soul of classic bistro fare. Whether lingering over a crisp glass of wine at the sleek bar or sharing a celebratory meal in the intimate dining room, every visit feels like a curated escape into refined hospitality.
• Sakura Sushi — Japanese: Bathed in the soft glow of paper lanterns and accented by delicate floral motifs, this serene sanctuary offers an intimate escape into the heart of Japanese culinary artistry. Behind the polished wooden counter, master chefs transform the freshest catches into edible art, from buttery slices of sashimi that melt on the tongue to intricately layered rolls bursting with vibrant, seasonal flavors. Each plate arrives as a masterclass in balance and precision, inviting guests to linger over a dining experience that is as visually stunning as it is deeply satisfying.
• Prime and Crown — Steakhouse: Stepping into Prime and Crown feels like entering a regal sanctuary where the amber glow of crystal chandeliers dances across plush velvet booths and polished mahogany. The air hangs heavy with the intoxicating scent of salt-crusted ribeye and aged bourbon, as chefs masterfully sear premium cuts to a perfect char over open flames. It is a place of grand indulgence, where every clink of heavy glassware and bite of decadent, marrow-infused sides celebrates the timeless art of the classic steakhouse.
• The Walnut — American: Polished timber and soft, amber lighting create an atmosphere of understated elegance, where the earthy aroma of toasted nuts and wood-smoke invites guests to settle into plush leather banquettes. The kitchen transforms seasonal ingredients into vibrant, artfully plated dishes that balance rustic heartiness with contemporary refinement, perfectly paired with a curated selection of artisanal spirits. It is a space designed for the art of the long dinner, where every bite and every pour feels like a soulful tribute to the comforts of the table.
• Johnny's Italian Steakhouse — Steakhouse: This sophisticated retreat channels the timeless glamour of a classic supper club, where soft lighting and a lively atmosphere set the stage for an evening of refined indulgence. The kitchen balances the bold spirit of a premier steakhouse with soulful Italian artistry, serving up everything from golden-crusted sausage bread and tender mini beef Wellingtons to pan-seared scallops that glisten under the dining room’s warm glow. Every visit feels like a celebration, blending the comfort of traditional flavors with the polished elegance and vibrant energy of a premier modern destination.
• Naco Tequilas — Mexican: Sunlight dances across vibrant murals and polished wood as the rhythmic shake of cocktails sets a lively tempo for an afternoon of spirited indulgence. Here, the smoky depth of premium agaves meets the bright, zesty punch of authentic street-inspired fare, where every plate is a colorful celebration of bold Mexican heritage. It is a high-energy sanctuary where the warmth of hospitality and a sprawling collection of tequilas invite guests to linger long after the last taco has vanished.
• 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.
• The Continental — American: Stepping into this mid-century sanctuary feels like a journey back to the golden age of dining, where plush velvet booths and polished brass accents glow under the soft hum of jazz. The kitchen masterfully balances global influences, presenting artfully plated classics and chilled seafood towers that pair perfectly with a stiff, ice-cold martini. It is a vibrant crossroads of timeless elegance and modern energy, making every visit feel like a celebratory escape from the everyday.
• Miyabi 9 — Japanese: Sunlight streams through large windows into a space where exposed brick meets polished wood, setting a sophisticated stage for the refined artistry of Japanese cuisine. At the bustling sushi bar, master chefs transform pristine cuts of fish into vibrant, edible masterpieces that balance delicate textures with bold, inventive flavors. This urban sanctuary invites guests to linger over creative specialty rolls and premium sake, offering a seamless blend of modern energy and timeless culinary tradition.
• Steak 'n Shake — American: This classic American diner hums with the nostalgic energy of a bygone era, where the sizzle of the open grill and the gleam of polished chrome set the stage for a timeless meal. Hand-crafted steakburgers are pressed to crispy perfection on the searing flattop, served alongside thick, hand-dipped milkshakes topped with a signature swirl of whipped cream and a cherry. The bright neon glow and checkered floors create a welcoming sanctuary for those seeking the simple, soul-satisfying comfort of a true mid-century roadside tradition.