Whether you’re catching a Broadway tour, a symphony performance or a local production, the Des Moines Civic Center sits in the heart of the downtown dining scene. From upscale taverns to sushi lounges and farm-to-table gems, here are standout restaurants within walking distance that offer memorable meals and the perfect ambiance to set the tone for your evening.
Mulberry Street Tavern
Just a seven-minute walk from the Civic Center, Mulberry Street Tavern inside the Surety Hotel blends nostalgic charm with modern elegance. Rich woods, leather seating, and a zinc bar create a warm, timeless vibe ideal for pre-show conversation. The menu features elevated tavern fare — try the wood-grilled meatloaf, half-chicken or MST smash burger. Vegetarian options include mushroom bourguignon and embered cabbage in a coconut-curry reduction, while gluten-free diners will appreciate the grilled salmon and seasonal vegetable sides such as crispy Brussels sprouts. For drinks, the classic Old Fashioned and a glass of their eclectic wine selection are top picks.
Prices range from $21 to $30.
Details: 206 Sixth Ave., Des Moines. Call 515-985-2066 or visit suretyhotel.com/mulberry-street-tavern.
The Stuffed Olive
For a lively tapas and martini experience just four minutes away, The Stuffed Olive on Court Avenue delivers. The ambiance is cozy yet energetic, perfect for small plates and conversation. Recommended dishes include the bacon-wrapped dates, Thai chicken skewers, and goat cheese-stuffed peppers. Vegetarian diners will enjoy the hummus trio and bruschetta, while gluten-free options are clearly marked. Their martini menu is legendary — try the espresso martini or the lavender lemon drop.
Prices are moderate, averaging $30 and under.
Details: 216 Court Ave. Suite 100, Des Moines. Visit thestuffedolive.com.
Splash Seafood Bar & Grill
If seafood is your pre-show craving, Splash Seafood Bar & Grill is a three-minute walk away and offers an upscale, aquatic-themed dining room with saltwater aquariums and whimsical murals. The lobster bisque, calamari, and Chilean sea bass are standout dishes. Gluten-free diners will find plenty of options, and vegetarians can enjoy the seasonal vegetable risotto. Pair them with a tropical mojito or a glass from their Wine Spectator-awarded list.
Prices range from $31 to $50.
Details: 303 Locust St., Des Moines. Call 515-244-5686 or visit splash-seafood.com.
Blue Sushi Sake Grill
For sushi lovers, Blue Sushi Sake Grill is a five-minute walk and offers a vibrant, modern atmosphere with bold flavors and sustainable ingredients. Try the Tuna Tower, the Cowgirl Roll (vegan), and the Mango Crab Rangoon. The menu is rich in vegetarian and gluten-free choices, including rolls made with soy paper and gluten-free tamari. Drink options include sake flights and the Cucumber Southside cocktail. The restaurant is a four-minute walk from the Civic Center.
Prices are around $30 and under.
Details: 316 Court Ave., Des Moines, IA 50309. Visit bluesushisakegrill.com.
Judges DSM
Just a five-minute walk from the Des Moines Civic Center, Judges DSM is one of the newest and most buzzed-about additions to the Court Avenue District. This elevated yet approachable restaurant and cocktail lounge blends judicial whimsy with moody elegance, offering a playful nod to the nearby courthouses while delivering serious culinary chops. The menu with New American influences includes the Public Defender burger, sweet corn ribs dusted with Cajun spices or the Peach Please Bruschetta, topped with peach marmalade, pickled shallots, and Prairie Breeze cheddar. Vegetarian diners will appreciate the vegan quesadillas filled with roasted poblanos, sweet peppers, vegan cheese, and tofu lime crema. Gluten-free options include the shoestring fried pickles made with gluten-free flour and the pork tenderloin torta crusted in gluten-free panko. For drinks, the espresso martini and the cucumber shrub mocktail are both recommended.
Prices range from $15 to $35, depending on your selections.
Details: 208 Third St., Des Moines. Call 515-214-1355 or visit judgesdsm.com.
Sign up for our new dining newsletter, Table Talk DSM, which comes out on Wednesday mornings with all the latest news on restaurants and bars in the metro. You can sign up for free at DesMoinesRegister.com/tabletalk.
Susan Stapleton is the entertainment editor and dining reporter at The Des Moines Register. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, or drop her a line at sstapleton@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: 5 must-try restaurants near the Des Moines Civic Center
Reporting by Susan Stapleton, Des Moines Register / Des Moines Register
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
