With summer on the horizon, it’s time to take it outside–meals included. Here are 10 of the top Des Moines restaurant patios to soak in the sunshine, stars and good eats.
Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
Known for its horror theme and Human Centipeach shake, the Zombie Burger + Drink Lab is a post-apocalyptic-chic restaurant in Downtown Des Moines. Though the joint is most known for its eccentric theme, the outdoor patio is a hidden gem among the zombie chaos with exposed red brick, shaded seating and a wood barricade to keep you safe from what lurks inside. To learn more, visit zombieburgershakelab.com/des-moines-downtown/.
Trellis Café
Hidden in the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, Trellis Cafè is the perfect outdoor hangout for fauna enthusiasts. The cafe is not only known for its fresh, plant-based menu, but for its stunning views of a vast water garden and botanical life. Learn more at dmbotanicalgarden.com.
Centro
Formerly a Masonic temple, this contemporary Italian restaurant invites guests to join them for patio season on its modern and covered outdoor patio featuring dark wood, vibrant flowers and low-hanging lighting in a breathable, open concept. Learn more at centrodesmoines.com.
Gilroy’s Kitchen + Pub + Patio
Known for its elevated pub fare and American comfort food, Gilroy’s is a restaurant staple to try if you are in west Des Moines. Its spacious patio surrounds guests in greenery, with outdoor overhead lights and wooden tables. The patio allows guests to enjoy the warmer weather and fresh air and has optional heaters for cooler nights. For more information, visit gilroyskitchen.com.
St. Kilda
The cafe and bakery in Downtown Des Moines is famous for its Australian fare, counter-made coffee and a hidden, garden-style patio featuring delicate trees, bright flowers and shaded seating for warmer months. St. Kilda’s menu features breakfast and brunch options, from simple pastries to its green chili benedict. Learn more at stkildadsm.com.
Eatery A
Eatery A offers guests wood-fired pizzas, Mediterranean fare and a large outdoor patio. The open-air hangout spot overlooks the cityscape, and features small trees, hardwood flooring and a bright, friendly atmosphere. For more information, visit eateryadsm.com.
300 Craft and Rooftop
This rooftop bar rests on the second floor, giving stunning views of the city from its patio. With low-hanging lights, live music and handcrafted cocktails, this elevated patio is the perfect place for sharing a drink and enjoying conversations with friends. Learn more at 300-craft-rooftop.business.site.
Mullets
A true local staple in Downtown Des Moines, Mullets focuses on American fare, rustic cocktails and a “business in the front and party in the back” lifestyle. The crazy hair-themed joint is known for its friendly atmosphere and bi-level patio with water and cityscape views from the top, and a covered lower level, perfect for rainy days and colder weather. Visit mulletsdm.com to learn more.
Wellman’s Pub Ingersoll
Not to be confused with its sister location, Wellman’s Pub and Rooftop, Wellman’s Pub Ingersoll is located in central Des Moines with exceptional American-style cuisine. The pub is not only known for its hot wings, but also its outdoor patio, complete with hanging plants, exposed bricks and an open-roof concept, perfect for spring days and warm nights. Learn more at wellmanspub.com/ingersoll-food.
Louie’s Wine Dive
Enjoy spring’s fresh air at Louie’s on its patio featuring wood fences, bright plant life and, for cooler nights, outdoor heaters. The wine dive focuses on American comfort food and a full bar to complement. Visit louieswinedive.com to learn more.
What a great resource. Thank you!