“4.25* (out of 5) Food: 5* Atmosphere: 4* Value: 4* Service: 4* 01/26/2024 Based on a recommendation from my wife's coworker, we decided to give Nick's Bar & Grill a try with our son and daughter-in-law. We weren't quite sure as we pulled up to what appeared to be a strip-mall, but the storefront for Nick's (see picture) was reassuring. We started with a round of drinks (see pictures) and while the Tequila Old Fashioned (see picture) was unique, I wouldn't order it again - struck me as a straight shot of inexpensive tequila. We both really enjoyed our main course meals. My wife started with the Shrimp Bisque soup (see picture) based on her coworker's recommendation followed by the Ribeye (see picture). I went with the Blackened Salmon (see picture) and really liked it - done just right with the perfect amount of 'kick' in the blackening seasoning. Last but certainly not least (for my sweet-tooth), we shared a piece of Key Lime Pie (see picture). While our waitress was apologizing for the appearance (falling apart) due to it being fresh out of the oven - we especially enjoyed it and the warm temperature only made it taste that much better. If you found this review helpful, please show your appreciation with a Like or a Follow. Photos copyright: happyhourdesmoines.com & thefoodanddrinkguy.com“
“Everyone was so welcoming when we arrived! It was our anniversary & the hostess at the desk said we were to be given something special after our dinner. We had a great server, Miles! We were wished a happy anniversary & thanked for coming! We saw no treat as the hostess had said. Oh well food was good. We'd go again.“
“Stopped here while traveling for work and it did not disappoint! There was street parking available up front and though we did not have reservations we were seated fairly quickly at the bar. We almost ordered one of everything to share. Each dish had unique flavors that tied perfectly together. The staff knew their food well and gave excellent recommendations. If you are going to get dinner in downtown Des Moines, you have to come here.“
“What an experience!! Having been a server in a fine dining restaurant many years ago what stood out to me most at Oak Park, on top of the amazing food and classy aesthetic, was the clockwork like polished service provided by the waiters and sommelier. Maybe it's a post COVID nostalgia for the old days of a well staffed restaurant, but it's been a long time since we've had every need proactively taken care of and plate settings artfully whisked away without thought. Top it off with a great menu and fantastic flavor combinations created by the kitchen team with no detail ignored. Keep up the amazing work!“
“Cozy little place in West Des Moines. Was down from the Twin Cities for some other business and needed a quick lunch. The junction chicken was delicious and the sweet potato fries were some of the best I've ever had. It's a small place and seating is somewhat close together. Service was a bit slow but very friendly and welcoming. I would stop again if I'm in the area.“
“Everything was phenomenal from beginning to end! The waitstaff was attentive but not overbearing, and our waiter in particular was so friendly and recommended the crab stuffed walleye, which was to die for! The environment was classy and intimate, yet casual enough that it felt comfortable and warm. The best part of the meal was the appetizer- the seared ahi tuna is too good for words, just trust me on this and order it! This was a great place to visit for my birthday dinner, and we definitely plan on being back.“
“Came here on Saint Patrick's Day for the green beer. We also tried the Green Caramel Apple cider. It was very sweet and delicious. It was fairly busy but no wait. The food options were amazing. Not limited to typical bar food. We had a Reuben, Kimchi flat bread, and brussel sprouts. It was so much food, but so good we couldn't stop eating.“
“Update: After a year or so since the previous review, we finally went back. This time it was easy to get a table and we enjoyed delicious food. Everything tasted fantastic and full of flavor. The only real downside is it's a bit pricey for small portions, but you're getting quality food. I've updated my score accordingly. For us, this would not be a regular visit due to the price point, but it will be for special occasions.-------Stopped by tonight for dinner around 7:15pm. 30 minute wait or immediate service at the bar. We chose the bar but sat there for at least 15 minutes without ever being greeted or waited upon. Ended up walking out. We'll try again with reservations to see how it goes. I understand being understaffed, but it was poor service too.“
“My husband and I have been coming here for 7 years and it remains one of our absolute favorite spots. Great food with large portions. Very tasty desserts (if you're not feeling a big meal, its worth swinging by for just a dessert). Good staff. Cozy atmosphere. A Des Moines must!“
“The onion rings were light and real easy on the stomach. I also got a chili cheese coney which had onion pickle and mustard on it as well. That combination was new to me but it was surprisingly delicious. I'll be back in for more. Who knows maybe I'll be a regular before long.“
“Awesome food, awesome staff, and great location. The first time I came here I thought why is this restaurant out in the middle of nowhere? Now it’s becoming more developed around the area and it fits that gap for an area that is somewhat out the way. It’s the perfect place to stop on my way home after work. I like to stop for a beer or two while I wait for my take home Pizzas. Trust me if you like Fong’s pizza, you will really like this menu!“
“It's just about the friendliest place we've been to yet. The food was great, I had the mushroom burger and fries, and they were the best fries I've had in a LONG time.. we started with fried pickles and fried cheese curds cause we couldn't decide , they were both great! My husband had the Bleu burger and really enjoyed it. Fresh ingredients are not brought in by Sysco ( a rare treat).We will definitely come back next time we are in Grimes.. quite a little gem this place is..“
“I was treated to lunch for my birthday today with my brother and longtime family friend. I enjoyed the Cuban Sandwich with fries very much and it was quite delicious. Our waitress was respectful and helpful with accommodations for one of our orders and checked in on us to make sure our dining experience was enjoyable. We were allowed to sit wherever we wanted and it was quite spacious and clean.“
“Great place overall. The service was excellent, and the staff was friendly and professional. Live jazz was performed as part of the Wednesday night schedule, which created a fantastic atmosphere for dinner. The food was served hot and fresh and was plated well. The crab cakes were delicious.“
“Absolute gem! And local stable, for many years this restaurant has delivered delicious meals and sides. I've eaten in and ordered prime rib for Christmas. Either way never a bad choice. Only negative is that it gets very busy with long wait times.“
Gastropubs • $
“Stopped here on Saturday on our way back to Minnesota, this was our first time here. We had 5 in total, we got greeted and sat in the first few minutes of walking in. Our server Mallorie was super friendly and knowledgeable of the menu items. I had got the BBQ burger to share and when it was brought out to us they had even cut it in half! We will definitely be back next time we're in the area“
“I go for the fries and get the salad with salmon. Life is good! I must mention Erica, great service at the bar. Fries are hot and crispy, dusted with Parmesan. Salad full of flavor with apple, mango, almonds, blue cheese perfectly cooked salmon. Great overhead music too! Talking heads psycho killer. So fun!“
“The fries are excellent although the last 2 times I went to B-Bop's the burgers seemed like they weren't cooked enough. Not pink but kinda soggy still. A good burger should have a bit of char a good example of this is at burger king. There was not enough sauce on the burger either. But definitely not a bad choice if you are hungry. If you have not tried the chocolate shake you're missing out. It's like what McDonald's used to have but a bit better even.“
“Highly recommend! Very glad that we stopped here on our way through Iowa. Had a bunch of different appetizers (portobello fries, roasted Brussels sprouts, pretzels with beer cheese, pub salad) and beignets for dessert, all of which were delicious. They have a huge variety of beers, as well as some really tasty cocktails, and we enjoyed creating our own flights. The staff were very friendly and helpful, and the bartender in particular was very knowledgeable about all the different breweries, styles and particular beers. The space was clean and comfortable. It would be the perfect place to host a party. Wish we had this place in our city!“
“One of our favorite places in the DSM metro!!! Excellent food, top notch cocktails, high end atmosphere, and the staff is professional and friendly. Wish I had a 6th star! Always make a reservation, it can be hit or miss with availability.“