Des Moines

Family owned and operated since 1922. In 2008, the readers of The Des Moines Register voted their Dad's Killer as the "Best Deli Sandwich" in the city and many subsequent "best of" awards by locals. The Food Network's "Outrageous Food" featured the Killossal Sandwich, a combo of four sandwiches, in May 2011.

Big Tomato Pizza Co.

Near the downtown nightlife area. Carry out or delivery only.

French-style bakery featuring all the goods you'd imagine, with quality omelets and coffee. High ceilings and modern setting make it a popular place to dine for all 3 meals rather than simply carry out fare. Outdoor patio on the back with a few tables. Can also find offerings at Downtown Farmer's Market.

Waveland Cafe

If you're expecting a fancy diner, then you better get lost. This place is for the real Saturday morning crowd and a good place to recover from a hangover. If it was legal to light up a smoke, this is where you'd get no gruff from fellow patrons.

Drake location is the original location. Favorites such as omelets, French toast, reubens, crinkle-cut fries, and bacon cheeseburgers and Drake's own "Bulldog burger" dominate the menu all three Diner's feature the Maytag Burger, oozing with Iowa's own Maytag blue cheese. During nice weather, there's a screened-in patio available to sit. Shakes and malts are made with Des Moines's very own Anderson and Erickson Dairy Ice Cream.

Originally began as a catering business but when their uniquely smoked Cajun and Creole creations caught on, they soon started to get a bigger loyal following. Full wine list.

Tapas-style plates that are meant for sharing. Pineapple cheesecake, large enough to share but you might want your own. Extensive wine list by the glass mostly reds. Very trendy, big-city feel. Dim lighting. Live music each Sa 8PM-11PM.

Italian fare featuring terrific coal fired pizzas. Specialize in $8.50 martinis.

A restaurant with a great reputation for serving up quality prime rib and Italian dishes for over 50 years. The restaurant is larger than it appears from outside.

Traditionally known as one of the most authentic Italian restaurants in the area, with over 30 wines by the glass. Fresh bread and minestrone. According to their Website, it was once voted Best Italian Restaurant and Most Romantic Restaurant. Small and also near some other bars and trendy clubs.

One of the longest-standing restaurants in the area since 1947, the Italian cuisine and beautiful restaurant setting will please anyone with a desire for a bit of originality. Very busy during the lunch hour, particularly when the state's legislative branch is in session. Small patio available. Full wine list.

In 2003, The Des Moines Register awarded the restaurant with 4-stars and several awards from reader polls. Prime rib, seafood, aged steaks, rack of lamb and duck are featured on the menu. For those seeking a casual dining experience, the bar is available in addition to the outdoor patio during warm months. Live music on various nights.

Famous for their cheesecake but also serve lunch items.

Snookies Malt Shop

Soft-serve ice cream joint is the cat's meow come summertime. Real fruit is used and the servings are generous. Dogs are invited, as well, as they serve up puppy-sized ice cream cones. Popular to sit outside but drive thru and indoor A/C also available.

Quality meat department. A popular rural grocery chain with several urban locations as well.