5 Best Hole-in-the-Wall Restaurants in Des Moines
These five best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines, are hidden treasures awaiting those who seek them. Our exploration of the 5 best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines has uncovered a diverse range of flavors and experiences that truly make this city a gastronomic haven. From the captivating aromas of Le’s Chinese Bar-B-Que to the nostalgic charm of Star Bar, each establishment has revealed a unique story and taste that have left an indelible mark.
Noah’s Ark Ristorante takes us on a journey to Italy with its authentic dishes, while Aroy-Dee Restaurant captures the vibrant spirit of Thailand in every bite. Open Sesame brings the rich tapestry of Mediterranean flavors to life, while the soulful offerings of Star Bar provide a taste of classic American comfort.
But, this is just the tip of the iceberg in Des Moines. Beyond these 5 best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines, there are countless more waiting to be discovered. The city’s culinary landscape is a treasure trove of hidden spots that invite food enthusiasts to venture off the beaten path and savor the unexpected. This is why these are some of the popular hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines that are waiting for you to discover them. This list is in no particular order.
A lot of great options are in these posts!
5 Top Hole-in-the-Wall Des Moines Restaurants
1) Open Sesame
Open Sesame is truly one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines, nestled within the heart of the city’s vibrant downtown district. This family-owned and operated gem exudes an inviting and cozy atmosphere that immediately makes patrons feel at home. The restaurant’s charming location adds to its allure, situated in a historic building with rustic brick walls and warm lighting, creating an ambiance that perfectly complements its delectable offerings.
Open Sesame’s culinary prowess truly shines through in their signature dish, the “Sesame Sensation Platter.” This mouthwatering creation features a medley of flavors and textures, combining succulent char-grilled kebabs of marinated chicken and tender beef, accompanied by a generous portion of creamy hummus, fluffy pita bread, and a vibrant assortment of freshly pickled vegetables. The harmonious blend of spices and high-quality ingredients in this dish exemplifies the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence.
Main Menu Items:
1. “Falafel Fusion Wrap”: A culinary masterpiece that harmonizes crunchy falafel balls with tangy tahini sauce, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and a hint of zesty pickled turnips, all bundled within a soft and warm pita wrap. Each bite offers a delightful explosion of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among regulars.
2. “Shawarma Supreme Plate”: This plate showcases thinly sliced and perfectly seasoned beef and chicken shawarma, accompanied by fluffy saffron rice, grilled vegetables, and a velvety garlic sauce. The contrast of savory meats and aromatic spices creates a tantalizing symphony of taste that keeps patrons coming back for more.
3. “Mediterranean Delight Salad”: A refreshing option for those seeking lighter fare, this salad features crisp mixed greens, plump Kalamata olives, juicy cucumbers, and crumbled feta cheese, all drizzled with a zesty lemon-oregano vinaigrette. It’s a flavorful and nutritious choice that encapsulates the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
Customer Reviews:
“Open Sesame is a hidden gem! The flavors in every dish are incredibly authentic, and the Sesame Sensation Platter is a must-try. The warm and welcoming atmosphere adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the dining experience.”
“I can’t get enough of their Falafel Fusion Wrap. It’s the perfect blend of crispy, creamy, and fresh. You can tell that each ingredient is carefully chosen for its quality.”
“Having dined at Open Sesame several times, I can confidently say it’s the best hole-in-the-wall spot in Des Moines. The Shawarma Supreme Plate is my personal favorite – the tenderness of the meat is beyond compare.”
Open Sesame, one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines, captures the essence of authentic Mediterranean cuisine with its cozy atmosphere, family-owned charm, and exceptional dishes. From the Sesame Sensation Platter that tantalizes the palate with a medley of flavors, to the Falafel Fusion Wrap and Shawarma Supreme Plate that showcase the mastery of their culinary creations, every visit to Open Sesame is a culinary journey worth embarking on.
They are one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines. This little haven in Des Moines brings the richness of Mediterranean flavors to the heart of the city, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. They rank high among the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines for good reasons.
2) Aroy-Dee Restaurant
Aroy-Dee Restaurant stands out as one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines, residing in the heart of a bustling neighborhood that adds to its authentic charm. This family-owned and operated gem embodies the essence of Thai cuisine while creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that welcomes both regulars and newcomers alike.
Aroy-Dee’s signature dish, the “Pad Thai Delight,” exemplifies their culinary expertise. This classic Thai favorite features stir-fried rice noodles, succulent shrimp or tender chicken, scrambled egg, and a delightful combination of tamarind, fish sauce, and crushed peanuts. The harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and savory flavors is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to authentic taste.
Main Menu Items:
1. “Green Curry Euphoria”: This aromatic dish boasts tender pieces of chicken simmered in a creamy green curry sauce, accompanied by bamboo shoots, Thai eggplant, and fresh basil leaves. Served with fragrant jasmine rice, this dish offers a tantalizing journey through the vibrant flavors of Thailand.
2. “Tom Yum Seafood Soup”: A culinary masterpiece that melds spicy, sour, and tangy notes, this soup is a symphony of flavors. Packed with an assortment of seafood such as shrimp, squid, and mussels, each spoonful of this soup is an explosion of taste, thanks to the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and Thai chili that define its character.
3. “Mango Sticky Rice Nirvana”: Aroy-Dee’s dessert offerings are equally impressive, and the Mango Sticky Rice dessert is a highlight. Sweet and ripe mango slices are elegantly paired with perfectly cooked glutinous rice, drizzled with a rich coconut cream sauce. This delightful creation offers a balance of textures and flavors that provide a fitting finale to any meal.
Customer Reviews:
“Aroy-Dee is a hidden treasure! Their Pad Thai Delight is the best I’ve had outside of Thailand. The flavors are spot on and take me back to the streets of Bangkok.”
“The Green Curry Euphoria is a must-try. The balance of spices and creaminess is impeccable. It’s evident that they prioritize authenticity in every dish.”
“I’ve been coming here for years, and the Tom Yum Seafood Soup is my ultimate comfort food. It’s both comforting and invigorating with its bold flavors.”
Aroy-Dee Restaurant, one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines, captures the heart of Thai cuisine within its cozy atmosphere. With signature dishes like the Pad Thai Delight that embody authentic flavors, and offerings like the Green Curry Euphoria and Mango Sticky Rice that showcase the restaurant’s culinary prowess, Aroy-Dee promises an unforgettable dining experience.
They are one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines. The family-owned establishment’s dedication to delivering genuine Thai taste is evident in every dish they serve, making it a popular destination for those seeking a true taste of Thailand in Des Moines. They stand out among the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines.
3) Le’s Chinese Bar-B-Que
Le’s Chinese Bar-B-Que stands out as one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines, located in a quaint corner of the city’s bustling Chinatown district. This family-owned and operated gem exudes an authentic and cozy atmosphere that transports patrons to the vibrant street markets of China. The restaurant’s unassuming location adds to its charm, nestled among other hidden culinary treasures.
Le’s Chinese Bar-B-Que’s signature dish, the “Roast Duck Extravaganza,” is a testament to their culinary prowess. This succulent dish features perfectly roasted duck with a crispy skin that encases tender, flavorful meat. The dish is served with fragrant jasmine rice and a side of tangy plum sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that delight the senses.
Main Menu Items:
1. “Char Siu Bao Delight”: These fluffy steamed buns are filled with a savory mixture of barbecued pork known as char siu. Each bun is a delightful balance of softness and succulence, with the sweet and savory flavors of the pork filling creating a delectable contrast.
2. “Beef Chow Fun Fusion”: A true fusion of flavors, this dish features wide rice noodles stir-fried with tender slices of beef, bean sprouts, and scallions in a rich soy-based sauce. The combination of textures and umami flavors makes this dish a favorite among regulars.
3. “Szechuan Spicy Eggplant Medley”: For those seeking a touch of heat, this dish delivers a punch. Slices of tender eggplant are stir-fried with vibrant bell peppers and onions in a spicy Szechuan sauce, resulting in a satisfying symphony of flavors that linger on the palate.
Customer Reviews:
“Le’s Chinese Bar-B-Que is a hidden gem! The Roast Duck Extravaganza is unlike anything I’ve tasted before. The crispy skin and tender meat are a match made in culinary heaven.”
“Their Char Siu Bao is a must-try. Each bun is like a little flavor explosion in your mouth. You can tell the ingredients are of the highest quality.”
“The Szechuan Spicy Eggplant Medley is my go-to dish here. The spice level is just right, and the combination of vegetables and sauce is a burst of flavor in every bite.”
Le’s Chinese Bar-B-Que, one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines, brings the authentic flavors of China’s street markets to the heart of the city. With signature dishes like the Roast Duck Extravaganza that showcase their culinary expertise, and offerings like the Char Siu Bao and Szechuan Spicy Eggplant Medley that embody the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine, Le’s offers a true taste of China in an unassuming setting.
They are another of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines. The family-owned establishment’s commitment to quality and tradition shines through in every dish they serve, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors seeking an exceptional culinary experience. They deserve to be ranked high among the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines.
4) Noah’s Ark Ristorante
Noah’s Ark Ristorante is unquestionably one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines, quietly nestled within a charming corner of the city’s historic district. This family-owned and operated establishment exudes an authentic and welcoming atmosphere that harks back to the warm ambiance of traditional Italian trattorias. Located away from the bustling city center, it offers a haven for those seeking genuine Italian flavors.
Noah’s Ark Ristorante’s signature dish, the “Lasagna Rustica,” is a testament to their culinary mastery. This indulgent creation layers delicate sheets of homemade pasta with a rich blend of seasoned ground beef, creamy béchamel sauce, and a hearty marinara sauce. Baked to perfection and topped with a melty blanket of mozzarella cheese, this dish captures the essence of comfort food.
Main Menu Items:
1. “Chicken Marsala Elegante”: A true culinary delight, this dish features tender chicken breasts sautéed to golden perfection, accompanied by a luscious Marsala wine sauce infused with earthy mushrooms. Served with a side of velvety mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, it’s a harmonious combination of flavors and textures.
2. “Pappardelle Bolognese Symphony”: This dish showcases wide ribbon-like pappardelle pasta bathed in a hearty Bolognese sauce made from a rich blend of ground meats and aromatic tomatoes. The dish is then finished with a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, creating a symphony of flavors that pays homage to classic Italian fare.
3. “Tiramisu Delizioso”: The dessert menu at Noah’s Ark Ristorante is equally enticing, and the Tiramisu stands out as a favorite. Layers of delicate ladyfingers soaked in espresso and brandy are interwoven with mascarpone cheese and cocoa, resulting in a decadent and satisfying end to the meal.
Customer Reviews:
“Noah’s Ark Ristorante truly captures the essence of Italy. The Lasagna Rustica is a must-try; it’s like a taste of homemade comfort.”
“The Chicken Marsala Elegante is a masterpiece. The combination of tender chicken and rich Marsala sauce is a match made in culinary heaven.”
“I always save room for their Tiramisu Delizioso. It’s the perfect blend of textures and flavors, and a delightful way to end a meal.”
Noah’s Ark Ristorante, one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines, brings the flavors of Italy to life in an unassuming setting. With signature dishes like the Lasagna Rustica that showcase their culinary expertise, and offerings like the Chicken Marsala Elegante and Pappardelle Bolognese Symphony that embody the richness of Italian cuisine, Noah’s Ark Ristorante offers an unforgettable culinary journey.
They are one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines. The family-owned establishment’s commitment to quality and tradition shines through in every dish they serve, making it a popular destination for those seeking an exceptional Italian dining experience. They have earned the rank of being one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines.
5) Star Bar
Star Bar stands as one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines, tucked away in a vibrant corner of the city’s downtown district. This family-owned and operated gem radiates a welcoming and authentic atmosphere that transports patrons to a bygone era. Situated among other hidden culinary treasures, Star Bar embodies the essence of a classic American diner with a twist.
Star Bar’s signature dish, the “Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers,” is a true testament to their culinary innovation. These delectable bites feature plump jalapeno peppers stuffed with a creamy blend of cheese, then wrapped in crispy bacon. The contrasting flavors of heat, smokiness, and creaminess create a symphony of taste that’s irresistible.
Main Menu Items:
1. “Star Burger Deluxe”: This burger is a star indeed, boasting a juicy and perfectly seasoned beef patty topped with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and a tangy special sauce. Served with a side of golden shoestring fries, this classic yet elevated burger hits all the right notes.
2. “Buffalo Chicken Wrap”: A favorite among regulars, this wrap features tender strips of buffalo-spiced chicken, crunchy lettuce, diced tomatoes, and crumbled blue cheese, all rolled up in a soft tortilla. The zesty buffalo sauce adds a kick of flavor that’s balanced by the cooling blue cheese.
3. “Homestyle Meatloaf Plate”: Star Bar’s comfort food offerings are equally enticing, and the Homestyle Meatloaf Plate shines. Thick slices of tender meatloaf are smothered in rich brown gravy and served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and buttery green beans, offering a hearty and satisfying meal.
Customer Reviews:
“Star Bar is a hidden gem in Des Moines. The Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers are a must-try; the combination of flavors is simply addictive.”
“I always opt for the Star Burger Deluxe whenever I’m here. The juicy patty and the special sauce make it a standout.”
“The Buffalo Chicken Wrap is my go-to choice. The balance of flavors and the generous portion of chicken never disappoint.”
Star Bar, one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines, captures the essence of American comfort food with a creative twist. With signature dishes like the Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers that showcase their culinary creativity, and offerings like the Star Burger Deluxe and Homestyle Meatloaf Plate that embody classic diner fare, Star Bar offers a delightful culinary experience.
They are one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines. The family-owned establishment’s commitment to quality and nostalgia shines through in every dish they serve, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors seeking a taste of classic American dining in a cozy and inviting setting. They are one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines.
Now you know why these are some of the popular hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines just waiting for you to discover them. However, it’s important to let you know that this is not an exhaustive list of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Des Moines and that this list is in no particular order. From quaint corners to unassuming storefronts, Des Moines holds a myriad of culinary secrets that are waiting to be explored.
So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, these 5 best hole-in-the-wall restaurants have shown us that there’s so much more to discover in Des Moines. Embark on your own culinary journey and uncover the hidden gems that await, each with its own unique flavors, stories, and experiences that make dining in this city a truly exceptional adventure.
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