There’s a special magic to brunch – that blissful sweet spot between breakfast and lunch, where coffee flows freely, mimosas sparkle, and every dish feels like a weekend celebration. In Des Moines, this magic is not just alive; it’s thriving, offering an incredible array of choices that truly make for the best brunch spots Des Moines Iowa. Whether you're craving classic comfort food, an adventurous culinary journey, or a lively social scene, Des Moines delivers.
At a Glance: Your Guide to Des Moines Brunch Bliss
- Match Your Mood: Discover spots tailored for every vibe, from swanky to laid-back.
- Feast or Focus: Find restaurants perfect for all-you-can-eat buffets or intricate à la carte dishes.
- Dietary Done Right: Learn where to find excellent gluten-free and vegetarian options.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Identify places that welcome little ones with open arms (and high chairs!).
- Bottomless Beverages: Pinpoint the best spots for endless mimosas, Bloody Marys, and screwdrivers.
- Local Secrets: Uncover the hidden gems and time-honored institutions beloved by locals.
Why Des Moines Elevates the Weekend Meal
Brunch in Des Moines isn't just a meal; it's an experience, a "brilliant mashup of breakfast and lunch" that locals passionately celebrate as the "most important meal of the day." The city's culinary scene has embraced this tradition, offering everything from sweet carbs and savory proteins to loaded Bloody Marys and innovative twists on classics. This vibrant dining landscape means you're never far from a fantastic brunch, no matter what you're in the mood for. For a broader perspective on all your weekend eating opportunities, check out our Guide to weekend eating spots.
Deciding Your Brunch Vibe: A Des Moines Playbook
To truly find the best brunch spots in Des Moines, Iowa, it helps to narrow down what kind of experience you’re seeking. Are you looking for a boisterous group gathering, a quiet catch-up, or something uniquely Des Moines?
For the "Bottomless" Experience & Group Gatherings
When you're with a crowd and the goal is relaxed indulgence, these spots shine with generous buffets and free-flowing drinks.
- Americana: Prepare for their "Bottomless. Bombshell. Brunch." This spot offers a customizable buffet spread that's perfect for visitors and larger groups. You can mix and match to your heart's content.
- Gilroy’s: Known for its family-style, all-you-can-eat brunch at a set price, Gilroy’s is ideal for big groups looking for variety without the fuss of individual orders. Add bottomless mimosas, Bloody Marys, or screwdrivers for an extra festive touch. Their summer patio is also a huge plus.
- Perkins Restaurant & Bakery (West Des Moines): If a classic, extensive buffet is what you crave, Perkins delivers. With options like cornflake French toast, breakfast pizza, made-to-order eggs, and even free meals for kids under six, it’s a crowd-pleaser that won’t break the bank.
- Fresko: While not a buffet, Fresko offers bottomless mimosas for a great price, making it a prime candidate for a "girl's day brunch." Their diverse, high-quality menu ensures everyone finds something they love, with numerous gluten-free options too.
Southern Charm with a Modern Twist
Craving rich, comforting Southern flavors? Des Moines has a few gems that transport you south of the Mason-Dixon line with every bite.
- Bubba: A true Des Moines institution, Bubba serves up unique Southern classics in a swanky-yet-cozy atmosphere. Their brunch menu, available Saturday and Sunday, features standouts like deviled eggs, shrimp and grits, creole omelets, fried green tomato benedict, and peach cobbler French toast. Don't forget their selection of bourbon drinks to complete the experience.
- Tupelo Honey: Hailing from Asheville, NC, Tupelo Honey brings authentic Southern comfort food to Des Moines. Expect delicious chicken and waffles, classic shrimp and grits, and a fun array of mimosas to toast the weekend.
Quirky & Themed Adventures
For a brunch that's as entertaining as it is delicious, these places offer unique atmospheres and creative menus.
- Eggs and Jam: Step back into the 90s hip-hop era with a funky theme, complete with a Tupac and Biggie mural. Beyond the vibe, their creative dishes like "Yo Holmes to Bel Air" (a Philly steak omelette) and "Toast Face Killah" (French Toast with raspberry whipped cream) are memorable. Mimosa flights, dubbed "I Just Crush a Lot," add to the fun.
- Mitzi’s (Historic Valley Junction): This rock and roll-themed spot in Historic Valley Junction is vibrant and animated. Their brunch menu is equally lively, offering breakfast poutine, blueberry pancakes, a queso-covered breakfast burrito, and the towering "House of the Rising Bun" (three cinnamon rolls stacked high with bacon).
- The Breakfast Club (East Village, West Des Moines, Ankeny): With kitschy retro cool décor, The Breakfast Club serves up progressive dishes like "Jamaican Me Hungry" (sweet corn cakes, pork carnitas, pineapple salsa) and "Seoul Food" (loaded hashbrowns with kimchi and sriracha mayo). They boast five types of Bloody Marys and half a dozen coffee cocktails, plus an Email Joke List for added amusement.
Local Legends & Classic Comfort
Sometimes, you just want a reliable, hearty brunch from a place that feels like home. These Des Moines landmarks deliver.
- Drake Diner: A Des Moines landmark since 1987, this 50's diner offers all-day breakfast in an old-school ambiance. Specialties include Santa Fe grits, pumpkin pancakes, chicken fried steak, and a signature omelet with Iowa sausage, mushrooms, and cheese. It’s a nostalgic trip with satisfying food.
- Waveland Café: A no-frills neighborhood diner famous for its "best hash browns in the galaxy" and plate-sized pancakes. It’s even a favorite of actor Jason Momoa, who has a namesake dish: "Da Mamoa" (biscuits and gravy over hash browns with sunny side eggs and bacon). Expect hearty portions and a genuinely local feel.
- Scornovacca’s: Known for its down-home atmosphere, Scornovacca’s serves hearty skillets, hash brown casserole, and giant cinnamon rolls. A country store on-site adds to its charm, making it a cozy spot for a comforting meal.
- Railroad Bill’s Dining Car: A time-honored diner in the East Village with contemporary touches. Expect classic diner fare with a bit of modern flair, perfect for a relaxed start to your day.
- Unnamed Classic Breakfast Place: This spot is described as representing "everything Iowa does best" – a classic, cute, and hearty breakfast shop where most wait staff have served since 1992. It's a testament to enduring quality and community.
Elevated & Artisanal Delights
For those seeking a more sophisticated or health-conscious brunch, Des Moines has several establishments focusing on fresh ingredients and refined presentations.
- St. Kilda (Downtown & Historic Valley Junction): Credited with pioneering the "elevated brunch" scene in Des Moines, this "Australian style" café is famous for its Instagram-worthy dishes, including its take on avocado toast and salmon and eggs. St. Kilda focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- HomeGrown (Sherman Hill & other location): Emphasizing fresh, made-from-scratch ingredients, HomeGrown offers signature items like homemade Pop Tarts and warm coffeecake with buttermilk caramel sauce, alongside classic eggs benedict and rosemary potatoes. Due to popularity, using their waitlist feature is highly recommended.
- La Mie: Considered one of the best bakeries in the state, La Mie offers exquisite pastries like chocolate croissants, pecan rolls, and cherry Danish. Their café menu is equally impressive, with quiche florentine, tartines, fluffy omelets, and French toast, all crafted with artisanal care.
- Fresko: Beyond the bottomless mimosas, Fresko's menu is defined by fresh, diverse, and high-quality options. Think crab cake eggs benedict, Maine Lobster omelet, and strawberry banana crepes, with a focus on delivering a premium experience.
Hidden Gems & Neighborhood Favorites
Some of the best brunch spots in Des Moines, Iowa, are tucked away, offering a more intimate or local experience.
- Motley School Tavern (Beaverdale): A hidden gem with a warm, inviting, and cool interior. This spot offers unique dishes like Pastrami hash, a wild mushroom omelet with goat cheese and fried brussels, and buttermilk and blueberry pancakes. It's perfect for both low-key and group brunches.
- Cheese Shop (Drake neighborhood): This Drake neighborhood gem is famous for its "Voted Best Nachos" breakfast nachos – fresh flour tortilla chips loaded with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, onions, peppers, and Monterey cheese sauce. Other robust options include the Hangover Hash and a Breakfast Burger.
- Louie’s Wine Dive: An underrated spot that’s notably accommodating to gluten-free diners for any meal. They feature amazing drink deals, delicious beignets, and great patio vibes, making it a relaxed yet sophisticated choice.
- Unnamed Beaverdale Spot (formerly Chef's Kitchen): A cozy space in Beaverdale suitable for low-key or group brunches, featuring unique offerings like pineapple-upside-down pancakes and a flavorful chorizo omelette.
Views and Vibes
- Mullets: Famous for its award-winning Bloody Mary mix (available in grocery stores!), Mullets offers a two-tiered outdoor patio with stunning downtown skyline views. Enjoy breakfast pizza and their signature Bloody Marys with a backdrop that can't be beat.
Pro Tips for a Seamless Des Moines Brunch
Getting the most out of your brunch experience often comes down to a little planning.
- Reservations and Waitlists: Many popular spots, especially on weekends, can have significant waits. Always check if the restaurant takes reservations or offers a digital waitlist feature (like HomeGrown does). Calling ahead or checking their website can save you precious weekend time.
- Dietary Needs: Des Moines has become increasingly accommodating. Places like Fresko and Louie’s Wine Dive are known for their gluten-free options. Don't hesitate to call ahead and inquire about vegetarian, vegan, or allergy-specific accommodations.
- Kid-Friendly Options: While most diners are inherently kid-friendly, some places go the extra mile. Perkins, for example, offers free meals for young children. Look for establishments with a relaxed atmosphere and menu items that appeal to younger palates.
- Parking: Downtown and popular neighborhood spots can sometimes have tricky parking. Factor this into your travel time, or consider ride-sharing if you plan on indulging in bottomless beverages.
- Explore Beyond Downtown: Don't limit your search to the immediate city center. West Des Moines, the Drake neighborhood, Beaverdale, and Historic Valley Junction all boast fantastic brunch options with distinct characters.
Quick Answers to Your Brunch Queries
Q: What's the best spot for bottomless mimosas in Des Moines?
A: Americana, Gilroy’s, and Fresko are top contenders for bottomless mimosas, with Gilroy's also offering Bloody Marys and screwdrivers.
Q: Are there good brunch places for large groups?
A: Yes! Americana and Gilroy’s are excellent choices with their buffet and family-style options. Motley School Tavern and the Unnamed Beaverdale Spot also accommodate groups well.
Q: Where can I find unique brunch dishes in Des Moines?
A: Eggs and Jam for 90s hip-hop themed creations, The Breakfast Club for progressive global flavors, Mitzi’s for rock and roll-inspired comfort food, and Early Bird Brunch for creative takes like A.M. Pot Pie and Shimp Grit Benny.
Q: Which Des Moines brunch spots are best for a more upscale experience?
A: St. Kilda is celebrated for its elevated, Australian-style brunch. Fresko also offers a high-quality, diverse menu perfect for a sophisticated outing.
Q: I'm looking for a classic diner experience. Where should I go?
A: Drake Diner and Waveland Café are quintessential Des Moines diners, offering an authentic, nostalgic atmosphere with hearty portions. Railroad Bill’s Dining Car also fits this bill.
Q: Are there options for gluten-free brunch in Des Moines?
A: Absolutely. Louie’s Wine Dive is noted for being very accommodating to gluten-free diners, and Fresko features numerous gluten-free options on its menu. Always inform your server about dietary restrictions.
Your Perfect Weekend Brunch Starts Here
Des Moines truly embraces the art of brunch, offering a diverse palette of flavors, atmospheres, and experiences to suit every taste and occasion. From the lively social scene of a bottomless buffet to the cozy charm of a neighborhood gem, the best brunch spots Des Moines Iowa are ready to make your weekend meal memorable. So, gather your friends, plan your visit, and prepare to discover your new favorite brunch destination in the heart of Iowa. Enjoy the ultimate mashup of breakfast and lunch!