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Best Authentic Restaurants in Downtown Des Moines

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6 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Bar Nico restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(164)
€€€€
• Mexican • Des Moines
Booked 8 times today
We had a lovely dining experience here. It was the first time for us and we ordered a few items to try. Our faves were the chicken empanadas and the rice. Our tacos were also delicious. We both ordered the specialty margarita which complimented the food. The flavors and textures were amazing. Service was on point. Haven't had such attentive service in awhile, which is refreshing. The only thing that felt off was the choice of music, kind if an odd vibe, but it certainly didn't affect our enjoyable experience.
A photo of In Confidence Speakeasy restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(65)
€€€€
• Speakeasy • Des Moines
Booked 8 times today
Great place to have a group meet up before heading out to local events - loved the entire experience. NOTE: they do not offer any small plates or food, Thank you
A photo of Revelry Room Bar & Kitchen restaurant
4.0
Excellent(23)
€€€€
• American • Downtown Des Moines
Booked 1 time today
Great food and great service! Definitely try the deviled eggs and Not Your Mom's Relish Tray!
A photo of Baratta's restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(128)
€€€€
• Italian • Des Moines
Booked 4 times today
Great food and service! We have never a bad experience and we have gone to Baratta's for years.
A photo of The Latin King restaurant
4.5
Awesome(353)
€€€€
• Italian • Des Moines
Booked 4 times today
Regulars at the King with expectations that are always met or exceeded. Red sauce never disappoints regardless of the pasta choice/order extra for the onion-rings & mozzarella sticks.
A photo of Flying Mango restaurant
4.4
Awesome(24)
€€€€
• Southern • Des Moines
Booked 3 times today
We celebrated my birthday at the Flying Mango. The team and service were all great. Our meals were good and the menu is a lot of fun (great Louisianna options).

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • ChrisGold
    Iowa •56 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Regulars at the King with expectations that are always met or exceeded. Red sauce never disappoints regardless of the pasta choice/order extra for the onion-rings & mozzarella sticks.
    More info
    The Latin King$$$$• Italian• Des Moines
    •
    4.5
  • mary
    Iowa •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 25 Oct 2026
    Great food and great service! Definitely try the deviled eggs and Not Your Mom's Relish Tray!
    More info
    Revelry Room Bar & Kitchen$$$$• American• Downtown Des Moines
    •
    4
  • Emily
    Iowa •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 17 Oct 2026
    We had a lovely dining experience here. It was the first time for us and we ordered a few items to try. Our faves were the chicken empanadas and the rice. Our tacos were also delicious. We both ordered the specialty margarita which complimented the food. The flavors and textures were amazing. Service was on point. Haven't had such attentive service in awhile, which is refreshing. The only thing that felt off was the choice of music, kind if an odd vibe, but it certainly didn't affect our enjoyable experience.
    More info
    Bar Nico$$$$• Mexican• Des Moines
    •
    4.7
  • Michelle
    Iowa •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 3 Sept 2026
    Great food and service! We have never a bad experience and we have gone to Baratta's for years.
    More info
    Baratta's$$$$• Italian• Des Moines
    •
    4.6
  • Char
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 29 Aug 2026
    Great place to have a group meet up before heading out to local events - loved the entire experience. NOTE: they do not offer any small plates or food, Thank you
    More info
    In Confidence Speakeasy$$$$• Speakeasy• Des Moines
    •
    4.7

Discover best authentic restaurants in Downtown Des Moines

Downtown Des Moines, Iowa, is a vibrant hub for authentic dining experiences that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. This area boasts a collection of restaurants that truly embody the essence of authenticity, offering a range of cuisines that highlight traditional cooking methods and indigenous ingredients. Each restaurant in this locale prides itself on creating dishes that not only respect but also celebrate their culinary heritage, providing diners with a genuine taste of their unique flavors. The dining scene in Downtown Des Moines is characterized by its dedication to quality and authenticity, making it a premier destination for food enthusiasts searching for an original dining experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these establishments ensure a memorable meal with every visit, underscored by warm hospitality and an inviting atmosphere. This curated list of authentic restaurants meets rigorous standards of quality and service, ensuring that every recommendation is reliable and worthy of your patronage.

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