It’s midnight. The lights of downtown Des Moines are a shimmering tapestry against the Iowa sky. Maybe you just caught a show at the Des Moines Civic Center, celebrated a Hawkeyes victory a bit too enthusiastically, or simply lost track of time catching up with friends. Whatever the reason, a familiar rumble echoes in your stomach: hunger. But where do you go when most kitchens have closed their doors? Fear not, fellow night owl! The Des Moines food scene, ever evolving, has a surprising number of options for satisfying your late night cravings.
While Des Moines might not be the first city that springs to mind when you think of all-night dining, a growing desire for after-hours sustenance has fueled a quiet revolution. More and more establishments are extending their kitchen hours, offering delectable dishes long after the sun has dipped below the horizon. This guide will explore the best late night food options in Des Moines, catering to various tastes, from savory burgers and crispy fries to comforting breakfast staples and everything in between. So, put your pajamas away (at least for a little while), and prepare to discover the hidden culinary treasures of Des Moines after dark.
Defining the Late Night Hours in Des Moines
Let’s be honest: “late night” is a relative term. What qualifies as a late-night spot in Des Moines might be considered early evening in a bustling metropolis like New York City. In the context of this article, we’re focusing on restaurants and eateries that keep their kitchens open past ten in the evening, with a special shout-out to those brave souls who serve food until midnight or even later.
Several factors influence the late-night hours of Des Moines restaurants. Weekends, particularly Friday and Saturday nights, typically see the longest operating hours. Special events, like concerts at the Wells Fargo Arena or festivals in the Historic East Village, often prompt establishments to extend their service. Seasonal changes can also play a role; patios are often bustling in the warmer months, encouraging longer hours, while winter might bring slightly earlier closings. Finally, staffing challenges, a common issue in the hospitality industry, can sometimes affect a restaurant’s ability to stay open late. Always double-check the hours before heading out, just to be safe.
Bars and Pubs: Where the Food Flows Late
Many of the best late night food discoveries in Des Moines can be found within the friendly confines of the city’s bars and pubs. These establishments understand that a cold beer goes hand-in-hand with a hearty meal, and they’re often equipped to serve both until the wee hours.
Consider The High Life Lounge, a Des Moines institution known for its retro vibe and surprisingly delicious comfort food. While primarily a bar, The High Life Lounge boasts a full menu that includes craveable burgers, crispy fried chicken sandwiches, and their famous “onion ring loaf,” a towering monument to fried goodness. Their late-night kitchen makes it a popular destination for post-concert revelers and anyone seeking a satisfying dose of nostalgia.
Another excellent option is Hessen Haus, an authentic German restaurant and beer hall located in the heart of the East Village. While the traditional German fare is delicious any time of day, it’s especially comforting late at night. Think giant pretzels with beer cheese, schnitzel sandwiches, and hearty sausages, all perfectly paired with a vast selection of German beers. The lively atmosphere and communal tables make it a great spot for groups.
Finally, for a more upscale experience, check out HoQ Restaurant. Although their dining room may close at a earlier time, their bar area stays open later and provides a small plates menu that showcases local ingredients and creative flavor combinations. The bar boasts an amazing selection of wines, beers, and craft cocktails making it the perfect place to sit and converse over delicious food.
Classic Diner Destinations for the Night Owl
Sometimes, only a classic diner can satisfy that late-night craving. Luckily, Des Moines has a few reliable spots where you can find comforting breakfast staples and other diner fare well into the evening.
Waveland Cafe is a Des Moines staple, serving breakfast all day (and night!). This cash-only diner exudes an old-school charm, with its cozy booths and friendly service. Whether you’re craving a stack of pancakes, a plate of crispy bacon, or a classic cheeseburger, Waveland Cafe delivers. Its unpretentious atmosphere and affordable prices make it a favorite among locals.
Another popular choice is Perkins Restaurant & Bakery. Although a chain, Perkins provides a consistent and reliable late-night option, offering a diverse menu that includes breakfast items, sandwiches, salads, and entrees. And let’s not forget the pies! A slice of Perkins pie is the perfect way to cap off a late-night meal.
Pizza and Casual Eats: Fast, Fresh, and Filling
For a quick and satisfying late-night bite, pizza and other casual eats are always a good choice. Des Moines has a variety of options, from classic pizza parlors to innovative fast-casual restaurants.
For classic pizza, check out Fong’s Pizza. With a few locations in Des Moines, Fong’s Pizza is a destination for a unique experience with an Asian-inspired menu and inventive pizza toppings. Its the perfect place for you and a few friends to sit and enjoy unique flavors in a fun atmosphere.
For a taste of something different, consider G Mig’s 5th Avenue Bar & Grill. This restaurant offers a variety of dishes including pizza, salads, sandwiches and various appetizers. The atmosphere is relaxed and has something on the menu for everyone.
Tips for a Successful Late Night Food Adventure in Des Moines
Before you embark on your late-night culinary journey in Des Moines, keep these tips in mind:
Check the hours: As mentioned earlier, always confirm the restaurant’s operating hours before you head out. Websites and social media pages are usually the most up-to-date sources. Also, call ahead to confirm hours on holidays and special events.
Consider transportation: Depending on your location and the distance to your chosen eatery, consider your transportation options. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Des Moines. Alternatively, designate a driver if you’re planning to consume alcohol.
Be aware of your surroundings: As with any late-night outing, be mindful of your surroundings and prioritize your safety. Travel in groups whenever possible, and avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas.
Look for specials: Many restaurants offer late-night specials or deals to attract customers. Check their menus or social media pages for any promotions.
Embrace the unexpected: Sometimes, the best late-night food experiences are the ones you stumble upon unexpectedly. Be open to trying new places and exploring different neighborhoods.
Restaurant Spotlight: A Closer Look at a Des Moines Late Night Gem
Let’s take a closer look at one Des Moines restaurant that consistently delivers on the late-night dining front:
The Blazing Saddle
The Blazing Saddle is a Des Moines institution, offering a fun and comfortable environment for everyone. Although know as a bar, they also have a kitchen that serves a wide variety of appetizers and sandwiches from quesadillas to burgers. Their kitchen stays open until very late, making it a great option for those out late in the downtown area.
Menu Highlights: Appetizers, sandwiches, cocktails, and beer.
Ambiance: Friendly, lively, and welcoming to all.
Price Point: Moderate.
Why it’s a late-night gem: Open late and a long time Des Moines staple.
Des Moines After Dark: A Culinary Conclusion
Des Moines might surprise you with the variety and quality of its late night food offerings. From comforting diner fare to innovative pub grub, there’s something to satisfy every craving after dark. The key is to do a little research, be open to new experiences, and remember to check those hours before you head out.
So, the next time you find yourself hungry in Des Moines late at night, don’t despair. Instead, embrace the opportunity to explore the city’s hidden culinary gems and discover your own favorite after-hours haunts. And remember, this guide is just a starting point. We encourage you to explore, discover, and share your own late night food finds in Des Moines. What are your favorite spots? What hidden gems have you uncovered? Share your recommendations in the comments below and help us build the ultimate guide to late night bites in Des Moines! Your tips will help other hungry night owls navigate the Des Moines food scene after dark.
