In the metro area of Des Moines, restaurants often turn brunch into a show. Some provide straightforward fare like omelets, French toast, and steak and eggs.
Some brunch spots in Des Moines provide a combination of foods for breakfast and lunch. Some like to add mimosas and bloody Marys to the mix.
Also, some eateries provide it seven days a week. While not exhaustive, this list has both established artists and up-and-comers, with some offering only on the weekends and others sharing the love throughout the week.
20 Best Brunch Spots in Des Moines
1. Little Brother
Location: 6587 University Ave, Windsor Heights, IA 50324
Brunch Menu:
- Avocado Toast
- Smoked Salmon Benedict
- French Toast
- Breakfast Tacos
- Chia Pudding
Little Brother is much more than just the ugly brother of the Tripp family. Joe and Alex Tripp are the creators of the city’s most popular restaurant, Harbinger.
Little Brother offers their older sibling’s inventiveness and thoughtfulness, but with a more laid-back vibe. Lately, they have abandoned dinner service to concentrate entirely on brunch.
Your short list of the best breakfast foods you’ve ever had is probably already filled with the Soon-to-be-Famous Breakfast Sandwich and the Manischewitz Braised Short Rib Skillet.
2. Drake Diner
Location: 1111 25th St, Des Moines, IA 50311
Brunch Menu:
- Biscuits and Gravy
- Blueberry Pancakes
- Classic Eggs Benedict
- Breakfast Burrito
- Denver Omelette
The Drake Diner, which has been serving up delicious food in the Drake neighborhood since 1987, is an essential part of any list of Des Moines landmarks.
Enjoy a cup of coffee, one of their specialties, such as Santa Fe grits, chicken fried steak, pumpkin pancakes, or their famous omelet with Iowa sausage, mushrooms, and cheese, and take in the nostalgic atmosphere of an old-fashioned restaurant.
They serve lunch and supper, but the first rule of diner eating is to order the all-day breakfast if it’s available.
3. Beaver Tap
Location: 4050 Urbandale Ave, Des Moines, IA 50310
Brunch Menu:
- Breakfast Pizza
- Loaded Tater Tots
- Biscuits and Gravy
- Bacon and Egg Sandwich
- Chicken and Waffles
The majority of patrons at this establishment attest to the excellent pizza, tacos, and pork served there. Seize the opportunity to sample some tasty beer.
In the evening, live music is available for listening. It is advised to try Beaver Tap because of the helpful personnel. It is important for these restaurateurs to provide timely service.
Visitors report that they felt the prices here were democratic. Take in the amazing ambiance as soon as you walk into this place.
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4. Eatery A
Location: 2932 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312
Brunch Menu:
- Wood-Fired Breakfast Pizza
- Shakshuka
- Avocado Toast
- Croque Madame
- Brioche French Toast
The Mediterranean food served at this pizza is highly recommended. You’ll be offered lamb gyro, chorizo, and expertly cooked wood-fired pizzas.
Try the delicious bread pudding, blueberry pancakes, and crème brûlée to decide what you think of Eatery A.
You can sample some delectable malbec, draft beer, or craft beer after a demanding workday. Excellent Americanos, juices, and espresso are said to be served here.
This cozy location makes it easy for guests to unwind after a long day at work. This location welcomes you year-round with friendly personnel.
These restaurateurs are concerned with providing a high standard of service. The average prices at this pizza will impress you.
5. The Breakfast Club
Location: 212 E 3rd St Ste B, Des Moines, IA 50309
Brunch Menu:
- Chicken and Waffles
- Breakfast Burrito
- Pancakes
- Eggs Benedict
- Breakfast Tacos
Visitors recommend that you visit this pub, thus Court Avenue may be automatically on your path. Reviewers say that the waitstaff here serves great-tasting filet américain, sausages, and bacon and eggs. Tasteful biscuits, strawberry waffles, and French toast are waiting to be enjoyed.
Enjoy delectable mimosas to kick off your lunch. Good juice or dark coffee are two of the Breakfast Club’s beverage options.
Great service and a helpful staff that is always willing to help are the main features of this establishment. Many guests have made the observation that costs are reasonable for what you receive.
6. Americana
Location: 1312 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Brunch Menu:
- Chicken Fried Steak
- Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
- Breakfast Sliders
- Biscuits and Gravy
- Eggs Benedict
Beside this steakhouse is Pappajohn Sculpture Park, a local landmark that contributes to this city’s true culture. If you haven’t been able to sample Spanish food, try Americana.
You’ll actually enjoy perfectly done grilled cheese, bacon, and sandwiches. Try some delicious crepes, donut holes, and cinnamon donuts.
Your dinner will taste better with delectable mimosas, champagne, or cocktails, and you’ll definitely return. Juice, lemonade, and fantastic americanos are the place’s specialty.
7. Cafe con Leche
Location: 2905 Hubbell Ave, Des Moines, IA 50317
Brunch Menu:
- Breakfast Tacos
- Chilaquiles
- Huevos Rancheros
- Avocado Toast
- Pancakes
Try the Spanish and Mexican cuisines here. Tasty chilaquiles, tortillas, and burritos are enjoyable to try. From what guests have said, the waiters here provide delicious crepes.
I bet you’ll come back to this restaurant later to try the amazing latte, horchata, or white coffee.
The welcoming team at Cafe Con Leche is well renowned for their excellent service and willingness to assist you at all times.
The reviewers’ thoughts indicate that prices are democratic. It’s possible to focus on the amazing atmosphere.
8. Angry Goldfish Pub & Eatery
Location: 2301 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315
Brunch Menu:
- Breakfast Poutine
- Chicken and Waffles
- Biscuits and Gravy
- Breakfast Burrito
- Stuffed French Toast
Trying perfectly prepared poutine, buffalo chicken, and cheeseburgers is highly recommended. Tender Brezeln, brownies, and ice cream are recommended by most guests.
Excellent draft beer, bourbon, or Merlot are served at this establishment. Great juice or good coffee is served by waiters, according to reviews.
Those who prefer to eat dinner on the run will find the takeout menu at Angry Goldfish Pub & Eatery ideal. This establishment has a polite crew that truly cares about its customers.
Some restaurateurs are concerned about providing excellent service. There is a wide selection of dishes at reasonable pricing at this location.
9. University Library Cafe
Location: 3506 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311
Brunch Menu:
- Loaded Breakfast Burrito
- Pancake Breakfast
- Bacon and Egg Sandwich
- Huevos Rancheros
- French Toast
Here, guests say that the servers serve well-prepared cheeseburgers, meatloaf sandwiches, and nacho chips. Delicious French toast and excellent pancakes are guaranteed at this eatery.
Worth trying here are the excellent draft beer, craft beer, or wine. Great lattes are available in the University Library Cafe.
Visitors can unwind and enjoy themselves in this establishment’s cozy ambiance. Most visitors say the staff is friendly. This place is said to have amazing service. To dine here, you must pay democratic prices.
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10. The Big Steer Restaurant and Lounge
Location: 1715 Adventureland Dr, Altoona, IA 50009
Brunch Menu:
- Steak and Eggs
- Belgian Waffles
- Ham and Cheese Omelette
- Biscuits and Gravy
- Pancakes
This steakhouse offers wedge salads, fried prawns, and well-cooked BBQ ribs. There is nothing better than enjoying delicious apple pie, crème brûlée, and triple chocolate cakes.
At Big Steer, some of the most popular drinks to order are the delicious martinis, wine, or beer. Enjoy a delicious coffee, lemonade, or bread beverage.
You can order takeout here. This place is made even better by the hardworking happy creative personnel. These restaurateurs need to provide timely service.
Here you can get tasty meals at reasonable prices. The excellent décor and serene ambiance will undoubtedly be appreciated by you.
11. St. Kilda Cafe & Bakery
Location: 300 SW 5th St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Brunch Menu:
- Avocado Toast
- Eggs Benedict
- Ricotta Pancakes
- Breakfast Burrito
- Acai Bowl
Come here for dinner right after seeing the Science Center of Iowa. You could like the delicious filet américain, scallops, and cheddar sandwiches at this eatery.
There’s nothing better than a delicious croissant, biscuit, or bread pudding. Start your dinner with a tasty glass of wine, beer, or bitters. The majority of visitors mention that St. Kilda has excellent iced coffee, ice tea, and chai lattes.
Bring your special someone to this romantic location. The majority of visitors say that the personnel is amiable. Customers concur that this place offers cool service.
Prices are reasonable considering the quality you receive. As many reviews mention, the interior design is contemporary.
12. Centro
Location: 1003 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Brunch Menu:
- Frittata
- Brioche French Toast
- Smoked Salmon Bagel
- Breakfast Pizza
- Eggs Benedict
You can peruse the menu at this restaurant after touring The Temple for Performing Arts. If you are craving Italian food, Centro is a good option.
Take one mouthful and be impressed by well cooked medium steaks, Italian sausages, and pizza salads. The majority of visitors advise sampling delicious brownie sundae, chocolate desserts, and crème brûlée.
Try the wonderful chianti, coffee martinis, or draft beer here while you’re there. Come here and have a wonderful Americano, ice tea, or espresso.
13. HomeGrown Des Moines – Crescent
Location: 555 17th St Ste 102, Des Moines, IA 50309
Brunch Menu:
- Avocado Toast
- Breakfast Tacos
- French Toast
- Chicken and Biscuits
- Omelets
You can review the menu at this restaurant after touring the Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden. HomeGrown Des Moines – Crescent serves wonderfully cooked bacon, pies, and potatoes with rosemary.
The best dishes are biscuits, blueberry tarts, and good fruitcake. Customers come to this establishment to sample excellent whiskey or tasty mimosas.
This establishment is well-known for its excellent tea, fresh juices, and honey lattes.
This location is convenient, making it easy to find. This restaurant’s friendly staff exhibits a high degree of hospitality. Visitors comment on how wonderful the service is.
The reviewers’ assessments indicate that the pricing is reasonable. You’ll like the wonderful decor and serene ambiance for sure.
14. Machine Shed Restaurant Urbandale
Location: 11151 Hickman Rd, Urbandale, IA 50322
Brunch Menu:
- Country Fried Steak
- Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
- Biscuits and Gravy
- Breakfast Skillet
- Omelets
What to look forward to after dining at this restaurant is the walk with a view of Living History Farms. You can choose from filled pork, coleslaw, and well-grilled pork chops on the menu.
You might like some delicious bread pudding, cinnamon rolls, and vanilla ice cream from The Machine Shed.
This is where some guests enjoy good wine, bourbon, or beer. You can get a delicious americano, ice tea, or lemonade here.
It is appropriate to celebrate a birthday, wedding anniversary, or anniversary at this restaurant. The great personnel is something that most visitors mention.
Customers will like the pleasant service that The Machine Shed offers. You may get a wide selection of foods here at competitive costs.
15. Bubba
Location: 200 10th St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Brunch Menu:
- Shrimp and Grits
- Chicken and Waffles
- Biscuits and Gravy
- Southern Benedict
- Pecan Praline French Toast
Once you’ve enjoyed The Temple for Performing Arts, head over to this nearby restaurant. It’s a pretty good idea to taste perfectly prepared meatloaf, deviled eggs, and southern fried chicken.
The best foods include waffles, muffins, and delicious pecan pie. Start your dinner with a tasty craft beer, wine, or bourbon. When visiting Bubba, you have to try their excellent juice, Americano, or ice tea.
There will be a sizable kids’ menu available for your kids. This place is amazing because of the hardworking, cheerful staff.
They are really cute. One thing that visitors mention in their reviews is the cool service. You should pay reasonable prices for your dinner. This place’s breathtaking décor and serene ambiance make guests feel at ease.
16. Motley School Tavern
Location:
Brunch Menu: 1903 Beaver Ave, Des Moines, IA 50310
- Chorizo Hash
- Classic Pancakes
- Eggs Benedict
- Breakfast Burrito
- Avocado Toast
Guests at this eatery can have fried chicken, prawns, and a delicious coleslaw. Good-tasting blueberry ice cream, biscuits, and pancakes.
You’ll probably return to Motley School Tavern later to sample some delectable wine, beer, or bellini. Great coffee tastes good, especially after a hard workweek.
The welcoming ambiance of this establishment enables patrons to unwind following a demanding workday. The majority of guests say that the personnel is well-trained.
This place stands out for its fun service. Here, prices are quite low. The cozy interior design is a major plus.
17. The Republic on Grand
Location: 401 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
Brunch Menu:
- Brunch Burger
- Chicken and Waffles
- Avocado Toast
- French Toast
- Breakfast Flatbread
If you’re in the East Village, stop by this pub. Most visitors advise sampling the tacos, tuna tataki, and delicious bacon.
A good option for you, if you’d like to sample some excellent wine, bourbon, or beer, is The Republic on Grand. Excellent fruit juice is offered; sample and savor it.
The cozy ambiance of this establishment enables patrons to unwind following a demanding workday. This location is suggested for the knowledgeable staff.
These restaurateurs are concerned with providing a high standard of service. The reviewers believe that the pricing is reasonable. It’s renowned for having a cozy fireplace.
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18. Fresko
Location: 909 Locust St Ste. 103, Des Moines, IA 50309
Brunch Menu:
- Smoked Salmon Toast
- Acai Bowl
- Breakfast Tacos
- Pancakes
- Avocado Toast
After touring The Temple for Performing Arts, eat at this restaurant if you’re still hungry. Seared tuna, chicken tacos, and well-cooked goat cheese salads are Fresko’s secret ingredients to success.
Chocolate lava cakes, crepes, and cakes are delicious and can leave a lasting impact. Savor mouthwatering wine, whiskey, or beer. Try some coffee; it’s amazing.
One major benefit of this place is food delivery. The welcoming staff is a reflection of this place’s style and personality. This place offers guests professional service, which they like.
From the perspective of the visitors, the costs are reasonable. You will love the elegant decor and cozy atmosphere.
19. PerKup Cafe
Location: 2700 University Ave Suite 324, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Brunch Menu:
- Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
- Biscuits and Gravy
- Breakfast Burrito
- Veggie Omelette
- French Toast
Perhaps what you need is some bacon, cheese omelets, and well-cooked hash browns. Enjoy some tasty biscuits, blueberry pancakes, and French toast. Espresso, egg coffee, and lattes are some of the establishment’s specialty drinks.
Customers are at ease and enjoy themselves in this cafe’s cozy atmosphere. At PerKup Cafe, the courteous personnel exhibit a high caliber of performance.
One thing that visitors mention in their reviews is the fantastic service. This place offers tasty food at affordable costs. Its beautiful decor is noted by many tourists.
20. La Mie Bakery
Location: 841 42nd St, Des Moines, IA 50312
Brunch Menu:
- Croissants
- Quiche Lorraine
- Almond Tart
- Breakfast Sandwich
- Brioche French Toast
If French food is more to your taste, this bistro is definitely worth a visit. Perfectly baked quiche Lorraine, bacon, and tartines are served here.
Don’t leave without sampling some delicious cheese croissants, French pastries, and fruitcakes. Savoring wonderful absinthe is a nice thing.
Your dinner will taste better and you will definitely return if you have a great espresso, ice tea, or honey latte.
Choose between sitting outside and inside. La Mie is suggested because of its pleasant personnel. These restaurateurs need to provide timely service.
You will pay competitive prices here. This location has an amazing design and a serene vibe.
Final Words
And there you have it, folks! The ultimate guide to the best brunch spots in Des Moines. From fluffy pancakes to savory omelets, and from trendy cafes to cozy eateries, we’ve explored the city’s most delicious brunch destinations.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, we hope this article has inspired you to try something new and indulge in the perfect weekend treat.
So, go ahead and gather your squad, grab a cup of coffee (or a mimosa!), and get ready to brunch like a pro in Des Moines.
