Although Des Moines is one of the smaller "cities" in america it does not lack in the dining experience. I reside in this small town for about seventy five percent of the year and thought Iwould put it on the egullet map. If you are ever traveling through here are a few places to consider: Sam & Gabe's- this italian bistro is owned and operated by to italian immagrints. The atmosphere is intamate but casual. The food is the best italian around except in Italy. Everything is housemade. You must order the De Burgo and one of the desserts. There is always a good italian wine to compliment your meal. Ohana Steakhouse- If you are looking for an entertaining meal this place is a must. It serves American cusine cooked hibachi style at your table, and that is just the begining (The cooks use to have knife throwing contests until there insurance decided it was too much of a liability). The seafood and vegetables are usally your best bet. This is a mid-priced place that welcomes children. Mosaix- this is one of Des moines wine bars and by far the best. It has an extensive wine selection that would please anyone's palate. It's cusine is mostly mediterranean and the Paella is always excellent. Mosaix can be a bit expensive but is worth it. Forty-Three- This elegant restaurant is located in a histroic hotel in the heart of dowtown Des Moines. The menu changes weekly and varies from french to asian and everything in between. This is one of my top three choices, but you will probably have to break out the credit card for this one. NOTE: there is a Bistro 43 also in Des Moines that is NOT worth a visit. Big Tomato- If you are out late and want to eat quick this pizza place is a must. This is not just you cheese and pepperoni joint. My favorite pizza is the alfredo, corn , sun dried tomatos with pineapple, but you can choose from about fifty other toppings of your choice. This place is cheap and there is no place to sit. It IS a hole in the wall and the service is not with a smile. but for two bucks a slice i wouldn't complain. Trostel's Greenbriar- On the flip side this white table cloth restaurant is know for its steaks, serves wagoo regularly and it is always in the house if not on the menu. The menu is quite extensive with a page of apps and three pages of entrees plus the chef's specials of the week. As a whole this is the best restaurant in Des Moines. It features an award winning chef and an extensive wine list with a full bar. If you go, the chef's specials and the catch of the day are musts. The fish is always fresh. One thing to stay away from is the duck. This is Iowa not France. A few notes on dining in Des Moines: reservations are a must on weekends unless you feel like waiting, there are no dress codes but casual business is always prefered, the service usally is not top quality but very friendy. Finally, you are in the breadbasket and nowhere will you fined better cuts of beef or pork, so enjoy. I hope I have enlightned a few on midwest dining and hope you can experience one of these fine restaruants at sometime. elizabeth
