Harbinger is more than an abstract moniker for this Asian-influenced small-plates restaurant – it’s a driving principle. Co-owners Joe Tripp (also a three-time James Beard award semifinalist for Best Chef: Midwest) and Rae Doyle allow the flavors of the season and farm-fresh produce to dictate the rotating food and cocktail menu. Expect creative twists on steamed buns, chawanmushi and mochi served in a natural, airy atmosphere – and if anything lists XO sauce in the description, don’t skip it. The chef’s five-course tasting menu with wine pairings will take you thorugh a vegetable-forward adventure and leave you feeling uber-satisfied, we promise.
Although the town’s dining scene still skews towards comfort food, one scroll through our list of the best restaurants in Des Moines will convince you that Iowa's culinary landscape is about much more than just corn, pork and fried food on a stick. (Surprising in the Midwest, we know.) In step with the rapidly growing and diversifying population, a handful of new hotspots are highlighting flavors from all over the world, elevating the city’s food scene to uncharted new heights. Throw in the variety of fun things to do in town and beautiful hotel options and Des Moines might actually start to look like a very exciting destination for a domestic vacation.
But let’s get down to it: From elbows-on-the-table to worth-the-splurge meals, you won’t regret spending a penny at these Des Moines gems. Many are offering meals sourced by local purveyors (we are blessed with some of the richest soil in the country, after all), these eateries will delight you in new and exciting ways.
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