22 Best Italian Restaurants in Des Moines

“We went through the drive up window, and Shelby took such good care of us. Very kind and courteous. The most pleasant drive thru experience I have had in a very long time.“

“It had been a few years since we’d been to Lucca and I can’t for the life of me understand why. We had an absolutely fantastic experience there last Friday and are already planning our return.

We’d decided to do a fancy night on the town with friends (the kind where you dress up for no good reason) and liked the look of Lucca’s prix fixe menu. We arrived at 8pm sharp but our table wasn’t quite ready so the wonderful hostess got us drinks and made us comfortable in the seats near the door. She checked on us several times and we’d honestly have been fine waiting there all night. But they soon seated us and we had an amazing dinner. Four courses, including dessert, for $57 per person. The NY strip alone might cost that at another restaurant. All dishes were delicious and we were impressed at just how wide the selection was.

Once again, the service took dinner to another level and we loved the ambience. Plus, you step out into the East Village and have a million options for the rest of the night.

Exceptional job, Steve Logsdon and crew; it’s no wonder you’re still making national lists after so many years in business. We will absolutely return soon. Highly recommended.“

“I drove through Fazolis for a quick meal. Not only was the food delicious and piping hot but the lady that helped me was fantastic. Victoria was the very epitome of friendliness and great service. I will definitely be going back, please give Victoria the recognition she deserves.“

“Amazing food. Everything fresh“

“If I didn't know I was in Des Moines, I'd believe Allora was in Milan, Italy. The food was fresh and delicious, and the coffee was perfection. The service was great, both unobtrusive and attentive (a balance not a lot of American restaurants at this price point seem to understand. Centro also does a great job balancing the two!)“

“So far I’ve only had the sugar cookies and I’m in love. I guess that’s why they are called Love Drops 😍😂 Great customer service as well! 10/10 would recommend 👍🏼👍🏼“

“The pizza is excellent! The small pizzas are larger than a dinner plate, and are a great deal when 1/2 price on Mondays. Quattro formaggio was delicious and had a ton of flavor. Even the carnivore at the table didn't miss the meat.

Service was ok. They were super busy so not sure if they were short staffed or if our experience was normal. Had to cancel a second beer ordered because we had finished dinner and it still hadn't arrived. Bill was dropped off without the specials discounted and had to be reprinted. Waiter was friendly and apologetic about the misses. Prior to being seated the hostess seemed very confused about table status.

Atmosphere is busy, it looked like the kitchen staff were having a great time and enjoying the dinner rush. It's fun to watch the pizzas being made.“

“We got our food delivered to our hotel. The pasta was out of this world! Best focaccia bread in the universe! Thank you for your friendly fast delivery humans. They are lovely!“

“Aposto has a lovely atmosphere and some delicious dishes. The polenta cakes were a fan favorite as they were both light and crispy, and the sauce added a wonderful depth of flavor. For entrees, we liked the gnocchi’s lightness as each pesto lemon bite was really nice. However, the way it’s portioned makes the meal seem quite small, and there is very little crab in the dish itself. We ordered the duck special over risotto as well. The confit duck leg was cooked and spiced to perfection, but it’s accompanying risotto lacked a flavor punch.

For dessert, neither of us were wowed. They were decent and flavored as advertised, but they also didn’t quite hit the mark. We did adore our wines (especially the orange wine).“

“Valerie made the breakfast 5 stars. She was so nice and accommodating, can't say enough nice things about her and the experience we had because of her. Breakfast buffet was good, nothing out of the ordinary. Valerie made the difference between 4 and 5 stars.“

“Calzones are the best! Super friendly staff, I love their Pizzas too.“

“My husband and I are from out of town and went to Christopher’s tonight for dinner. What a pleasant surprise! Our food was amazing and the service was great! We will definitely be back when we visit DesMoines again.“

“My family loves Scornovacca’s. Been going there for years. Great food and great friendly service. One of the best pizzas in town!“

“First I feel like I have to say there is no where to park and the wait is long even on a Wednesday night. Inside is dark and loud and cramped. My ham and bean soup was very good! Stuffed mushroom appetizer was ok but not worth the $10.50 price. My steak was ok-I’ve had way better. Waitress said I should ask for it well done since the cook usually undercooked the steak and it turned out more done than I would have liked it but the waitress never came over to ask… The asparagus had that woody flavor. Potatoes were good. My bf let me try his onion rings and meatball sandwich and both were very good! Cake tasted old… the staff is very nice but looked a little overwhelmed.“

“Amazing food, service and style.“

“Brian did an excellent job today. His service was wonderful and he didn't fuss about the mess the kids made. Attentive - getting our refills in a timely manner. Highly recommend.

Kid-friendliness: Nice clean high chair was provided.“

“5 star family classic eatery.“

“Amazing food and staff 👌😎 I have tried almost everything on the menu and have yet to find something that isn't delicious!“

“Great spot to eat for amazing good! A Des Moines institution. Check out their amazing new patio bar also!“

“Simple stated, Incredible“

“Service, food. Ambiance is great.“

“We wish you a merry Christmas miss you we enjoy being with are children in Arizona but miss all you and your kindness want to say merry Christmas blessings to you and your family“