Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in Des Moines | Upscale & Vegan

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in Des Moines | Upscale & Vegan

• Main Street Cafe & Bakery — American · rated 5/5: This sun-drenched neighborhood hub hums with the comforting aroma of griddled hashes and golden waffles, inviting guests to settle into a space where farm-fresh scrambles meet the cozy charm of a local bakery. The kitchen masterfully balances sweet and savory, stacking artisan melts with gooey cheeses and topping charred, whiskey-glazed burgers with crisp applewood bacon. Whether diving into a bowl of velvety brisket mac or zesty Cajun pasta, diners find a warm retreat where every bite celebrates the soulful, hearty flavors of the heartland.
• Winchester Public House — American · rated 4/5: Winchester Public House serves as a spirited neighborhood anchor where the inviting glow of the bar and the aroma of toasted flatbreads set the stage for a convivial night out. The kitchen reimagines social dining through a parade of artisanal shareables, from warm, salt-flecked pretzels and creamy dips to a diverse collection of sliders that pack bold, global flavors into every bite. It is a place where the casual charm of a local pub meets a refined culinary sensibility, creating a welcoming retreat perfect for lingering over craft drinks and savory plates.
• Crème Cupcake — American · rated 4/5: Stepping into this boutique bakery feels like a warm embrace, where the comforting aroma of freshly baked milk bread mingles with the sugary perfume of artisanal buttercream. From the delicate, inclusive crumb of their vegan and gluten-free cupcakes to the golden, pull-apart layers of spiced cinnamon rolls, every handcrafted treat celebrates the whimsical joy of a perfectly balanced sweet indulgence.
• Al's Dairy Freeze — American · rated 4/5: This nostalgic roadside sanctuary captures the essence of a classic summer evening, where the air is thick with the sweet scent of vanilla and the joyful chatter of families gathered at the service window. Towering swirls of velvety soft serve crown crisp sugar cones and gluten-free cakes, while the indulgent Muddy Mississippi and thick, mix-in-laden Snowstorms provide a decadent, cooling escape from the afternoon heat.
• 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.
• G. Mig's 5th Street Pub — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant neighborhood haunt hums with a convivial energy, where the air is rich with the savory scent of slow-cooked hog shanks and the irresistible crunch of house-made chips. Diners dive into shareable plates of creamy Iowa corn dip and zesty chipotle shrimp tacos, while the signature prime rib burger offers a decadent, elevated take on classic pub comfort. It is a warm and spirited retreat where bold flavors and hearty portions invite long conversations and effortless relaxation.
• Christopher's — American · rated 4/5: Christopher’s welcomes guests into a warm, convivial atmosphere where the savory scent of slow-roasted prime rib sets the stage for a quintessential neighborhood dining experience. Friends gather over chilled domestic bottles and spirited happy hour pours, finding comfort in a space that balances timeless hospitality with the relaxed energy of a local favorite.
• Dough Co Pizza — Italian · rated 4/5: The air at this lively neighborhood haunt is thick with the irresistible aroma of bubbling cheese and Graziano’s meatballs simmering in savory sauce. Friends gather over overflowing specialty pizza packages and baskets of pillowy breadstick bites, while a thoughtful balance of crispy wings and inventive vegan grinders ensures every guest finds a slice of comfort in the bustling, welcoming space.
• Nightingale Cocktail — American · rated 4/5: Step into a shimmering winter sanctuary where the air is fragrant with holiday spices and the glow of festive lights creates an atmosphere of pure seasonal magic. Imaginative libations like the velvety Sticky Toffee Eggnog and the spirited Polar Expresso blend nostalgic flavors with sophisticated mixology, turning every evening into a whimsical celebration that feels both cozy and brilliantly bold.
• Mi Casa Cake Shop — Mexican · rated 3/5: Mi Casa Cake Shop serves as a sweet sanctuary where the air is perpetually perfumed with the scent of toasted pecans and zesty citrus, inviting guests into a world of artisanal indulgence. From the effervescent lightness of their signature champagne cake to the decadent, cream-soaked layers of traditional tres leches, every slice is a masterclass in texture and vibrant flavor. It is a place where classic craftsmanship meets whimsical creativity, turning simple afternoon cravings into celebrated moments of pure, sugary bliss.
• Trostel's Greenbriar — Steakhouse · rated 3/5: Trostel's Greenbriar exudes a timeless, sophisticated charm, where the warm glow of the dining room sets the stage for an evening of refined indulgence. The kitchen transforms classic ingredients into decadent experiences, from the rich, bubbling warmth of baked Havarti shrimp to the crisp, vibrant zest of Thai beef rolls. Whether sharing an artisan cheese plate or savoring tender prime rib, guests are treated to a seamless blend of comfort and culinary artistry that makes every visit feel like a celebrated tradition.
• 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.
• Michael's Pizza — Italian: Michael's Pizza serves as a warm neighborhood anchor where the irresistible aroma of toasted garlic and bubbling cheese draws guests into a space buzzing with casual energy. The kitchen masters the art of the shared table, turning out crispy, golden-fried favorites and savory, molten dips alongside bright, garden-fresh salads that burst with Mediterranean flavors.
• Simon's — American: Simon’s offers a warm, convivial escape where the air is rich with the aroma of roasted garlic and bubbling, herb-infused cheeses. The experience centers on the art of the shared table, inviting guests to linger over golden-crisp crostini and savory stuffed mushrooms before refreshing the palate with vibrant, garden-fresh salads drizzled in tangy balsamic.
• Parlor — American: Parlor pulses with a convivial energy, inviting guests to settle in and indulge in the satisfying crunch of Detroit-style pizzas defined by their thick, airy crusts and lacy, caramelized cheese edges. The atmosphere hums with the clinking of glasses as vibrant signature cocktails and frosty draft beers flow freely, perfectly complementing towering, shareable plates of nachos for the ultimate social feast.
• Cheng's Garden — Chinese: Cheng’s Garden serves as a vibrant neighborhood sanctuary where the enticing scent of sizzling woks and golden-fried treasures immediately sparks the appetite. The kitchen is known for its communal Pu Pu platters overflowing with crispy crab rangoon and tender, glazed spare ribs, offering a nostalgic warmth that lingers in every hand-pleated dumpling and perfectly bronzed egg roll.
• Waterfront Seafood Market — Seafood: Waterfront Seafood Market captures the salt-kissed essence of the coast, where the briny aroma of freshly shucked oysters and the lively energy of a bustling dockside market invite guests to linger. The experience centers on the ocean’s purest flavors, from chilled mounds of peel-and-eat shrimp to the indulgent warmth of golden-seared crab cakes and smoky, bacon-wrapped scallops. It is a vibrant maritime sanctuary where every bite feels like a seaside getaway, celebrating the simple, timeless joy of impeccably fresh seafood.
• Home Sweet Cone — American: This charming creamery welcomes guests with the sweet, toasted aroma of hand-pressed waffle cones and a vibrant display of artisanal scoops that promise a nostalgic escape. Whether you’re exploring a curated flight of seasonal flavors or indulging in a decadent chocolate-dipped bowl, the experience celebrates the simple, creamy joy of a perfectly crafted dessert.
• Blue Shark Ale House — American: This vibrant social hub hums with the energy of a classic neighborhood hangout, where the aroma of golden-fried favorites and the clink of glasses set the stage for a relaxed afternoon. Guests dive into shareable mountains of loaded waffle fries and bubbling crocks of spinach artichoke dip, savoring a menu that celebrates the crunch of panko-crusted curds and the zesty heat of southwest egg rolls. It is a place where every plate is an invitation to linger, turning casual bites into a communal feast of comfort and camaraderie.
• Prime and Providence — Steakhouse: Prime and Providence invites diners into a world of bold indulgence, where the rich aroma of roasted bone marrow and the sizzle of triple-cooked bacon set the stage for a sophisticated yet playful culinary journey. The kitchen masterfully bridges the gap between classic elegance and modern whimsy, pairing refined plates like beef carpaccio and buttery Lobstercargot with the unexpected, decadent crunch of Dorito-crusted mac and cheese. It is a vibrant destination designed to surprise the palate, offering a spirited reimagining of the traditional steakhouse experience through every zesty shrimp and delicate wonton taco.
• Thai Flavors Ingersoll — Thai: Step into a vibrant sanctuary where the fragrant steam of lemongrass and galangal mingles with the delicate, clean scents of a bustling sushi bar. Guests gather over ornate platters brimming with the bold, multi-layered spices of authentic Thai tradition, balanced by the meticulous artistry of hand-rolled sushi that celebrates the freshest catch. It is a place where the warmth of Southeast Asian hospitality meets a contemporary neighborhood energy, offering a sensory journey that transports the palate with every vibrant bite.
• 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.
• Francie's Bar & Grill — American: Francie's Bar & Grill hums with the vibrant energy of a classic neighborhood hangout, where the comforting aroma of toasted garlic focaccia and sizzling, hand-pressed burgers fills the air. Friends gather over overflowing platters of golden buffalo wings and molten queso dip, savoring a menu that celebrates bold, soulful American flavors in a warm and unpretentious setting.
• Sakari Sushi Lounge — Japanese: Bathed in a chic, high-energy glow, this modern lounge invites guests to linger over an array of vibrant, shareable plates that celebrate bold textures and fiery flavors. From the satisfying crunch of golden-fried katsu to the indulgent warmth of creamy crab rangoon dip, every bite is a sensory celebration designed for social evenings and spirited conversation.
• Old West — American: Old West captures the rugged charm of a rustic outpost, where the air is perpetually seasoned with the enticing aroma of garlic-infused shrimp and flame-seared steak asado. Sizzling fajitas arrive at the table in a dramatic cloud of steam, accompanied by vibrant tacos campestres and hand-crafted enchiladas that burst with bold, sun-drenched flavors. It is a place where hearty portions and a welcoming, unpretentious spirit turn every meal into a soulful celebration of traditional comfort.
• 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.
• Drake Diner — American: Step into a timeless slice of Americana where the rhythmic sizzle of the griddle and the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee create a bustling, nostalgic sanctuary. Heaping plates of golden, fluffy omelets—from the garden-fresh Vegetarian to the meat-lover’s signature Whole Hog—arrive at cozy booths alongside classic numbered breakfast specials that define the art of the hearty morning meal. This vibrant neighborhood hub blends the clatter of silverware with the warmth of genuine hospitality, turning every visit into a celebrated tradition of comfort and community.