Des Moines, Iowa, boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, increasingly catering to health-conscious individuals. The city's healthy restaurants are dedicated to providing meals that are both nutritious and delicious, emphasizing fresh, high-quality ingredients and innovative cooking techniques. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring the healthy dining options in Des Moines promises a delightful culinary experience that aligns with your wellness goals.
Farm-to-Table Freshness at Fresko
Fresko, with a name that translates to "fresh," embodies its commitment to seasonal menus crafted from locally sourced ingredients. This farm-to-table establishment prioritizes natural, time-honored culinary techniques to enrich the flavor and nutritional value of its offerings. Fresko believes in the connection between food and well-being, promoting the idea that eating well leads to living well.
Beyond its food, Fresko features a splendid assortment of original cocktails, a deep spirits menu, and a beer program with sixteen beers on tap, alongside bottles and cans. The wine menu focuses on quality selections at a great value, making it a comprehensive dining destination.
Mediterranean-Inspired Cuisine at Eatery A
Eatery A is Des Moines's go-to spot for Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, focusing on simple dishes that highlight local, quality ingredients. The restaurant strives to offer exotic flavor profiles, allowing the ingredients to take center stage.
A unique aspect of Eatery A is its commitment to using heirloom organic Mexican corn varietals for its tortillas, hand-ground in-house daily and cooked to order. This "Sin Maiz, No Hay Pais" (without corn there is no country) philosophy extends to a completely gluten-free kitchen, as they keep no flour in house.
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Verified diners rave about the delicious food and exceptional service at Eatery A, noting the artful presentation of even starters and sides. It's possible to enjoy a delicious meal at a reasonable price.
All-Day Dining with Local Flair at Park Street Kitchen & Bar
Located in the Hilton Des Moines Downtown, Park Street Kitchen & Bar offers an all-day dining experience featuring local ingredients and products, prepared simply and served professionally. The restaurant's soul is anchored in the abundance of regional foods produced and raised locally. The menu features wholesome and hearty fare, using tried and true recipes and methods. Guests can choose to dine indoors or al fresco on the outdoor patio, complete with string lights and a fireplace.
New World Kitchen: Plant-Based Meals with a Devoted Following
New World Kitchen stands out in the Des Moines area for its dedication to providing plant-based meals with ingredients that are both pronounceable and recognizable. This meal prep service has garnered a devoted following, with customers praising the delicious, healthy food and the easy ordering and pick-up process.
Customers rave about the flavor and quality of New World Kitchen's offerings. One reviewer noted, "Some of the best vegan food in Des Moines. Whole food, plant based, ingredients that you can pronounce. I’ve been ordering for a year now and love ALL that I’ve ordered." Another customer mentioned, "The food is amazing, the ordering and pick up process is easy, and we love that it’s all plant based! We’re going to add New World Kitchen meals to our regular meal plans!" The friendly staff and consistent delivery of delicious, healthy food have also been highlighted by satisfied customers.
The sauces, in particular, receive high praise for being packed with flavor, with one reviewer exclaiming, "So good, the sauces especially are so packed full of flavor 🔥 huge portions, the sun flower seed ranch is better then any ranch I've ever eaten & I am a ranch lover! I'm not even vegan but I am now."
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New World Kitchen's meals are thoughtfully crafted with high-quality ingredients, offering comfort meals with an elevated twist. The unique offerings set it apart from other dining options in Des Moines and beyond. The comfort and quality of the food is summarized by a reviewer who stated, "Unlike any other place in Des Moines (and beyond)! The meals are beautifully and thoughtfully crafted with high quality ingredients. It's food you want to eat - comfort meals - but elevated!"
Additionally, New World Kitchen offers soft, sweatshop-free, USA-made unisex logo t-shirts, although they are almost sold out with the last few shirts discounted by 20%.
New World Kitchen specializes in delivery and takeout only, making it a convenient option for enjoying healthy, plant-based meals at home.
Prairie Canary Restaurant & Bar: A Local Favorite
Prairie Canary Restaurant & Bar is another notable option in Des Moines, particularly known for its American cuisine. While one reviewer noted a recent experience where the food didn't quite meet their expectations, they attributed it to a possible "blip on the radar" and expressed hope for improvement in future visits. The restaurant is a local favorite, especially for those looking to introduce friends to the Des Moines dining scene.
The Green Olive: Authentic Mediterranean Cuisine
The Green Olive offers a taste of authentic Mediterranean cuisine in Des Moines. Each platter includes freshly made hummus with olive oil, Mediterranean seasoned yellow rice, salad topped with house-made garlic lemon dressing, and freshly made pita bread. More than just a restaurant, The Green Olive is a gathering place for friends and family, celebrating the essence of Mediterranean flavors with a personal touch. They also host special events, providing the perfect space for various occasions.
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Navigating the Healthy Restaurant Scene
When choosing a healthy restaurant in Des Moines, consider factors such as the sourcing of ingredients, the preparation methods, and the overall menu focus. Restaurants like Fresko and Eatery A emphasize local and seasonal ingredients, while New World Kitchen specializes in plant-based options. By exploring the diverse offerings of these and other establishments, you can discover a range of healthy and delicious dining experiences in Des Moines.