#1

Clay's Restaurant American Traditional 4830 Maple Drive, Des Moines (515) 262-7520  This is one of my husband's favorite restaurants. He likes to meet up with his buddies and have a nice steak and salad. I like Clay's because the ambiance is not like the glaringly bright, noisy, trendy restaurants that are popping up. I enjoy bei...

#2

The Mandarin Restaurant Chinese 3520 Beaver Avenue Suite A, Des Moines (515) 277-6263  Wow. That word sums up the food at the Mandarin. I like to try various Chinese restaurants everywhere I go, and I have never experienced food as delicious as here. The Crab Rangoon is perfect (there is actually crab in it, it isn't just a sweet cr...

#3

Two Girls One Cup Deli/Sandwich/Subs, Fast Food 3705 Ingersoll Avenue, Jovphglrzazhh, Des Moines (515) 274-1208  My experiences at Manhattan Deli have all been fantastic, I go about once a week and my boyfriend goes more often than that. It drives me crazy when someone writes a scathing review that I know is not true. Manhattan deli is a family-run local busi...

#4

Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Compan Brewery/Pub/Tavern 309 Court Avenue, Des Moines (515) 282-2739  I am not sure when these people where there last, but I just went and loved it. They have been smoke free since April! The service is above and beyond. Never having to ask for anything. I think our server was a mind reader. She was alway one step ahe...

#5

Baratta's Restaurant Italian, Pizzeria 2320 South Union Street, Des Moines (515) 243-4516  A little overrated. They recently raised prices quite a bit and their food didn't improve w/ increase. Pizza a little greasy. Not real kid friendly - not a lot for them to see/do. Sandwiches were ok, but nothing to brag about. Not my favorite southsi...

#6

Raccoon River Brewing Co Brewery/Pub/Tavern 200 10th St, Des Moines (515) 283-1941  The food is great, the atmosphere is great and the beer is excellent (but don't expect it to taste like Bud Light). One real complaint is a lack of a dinner salad, complimentary bread, etc. before your meal. Any average/upscale restaurant should incl...