Downtown Des Moines | Where to Find Comfort Food Guide

On a crisp and cold day, there’s nothing better than indulging in cozy, comforting meals that warm your soul. Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is brimming with tasty comfort food that feels like home — dishes that remind you of mom or grandma’s cooking, with rich flavors and hearty portions that make you feel good from the inside out. Whether you’re craving creamy mac & cheese, savory meatloaf or warm pot pie, the local spots in Downtown DSM have just what you need to wrap yourself in that home-cooked goodness. So go ahead, dig into these meals that not only satisfy your hunger but also warm your heart!

Americana

Neighborhood: Western Gateway
This restaurant in Downtown DSM is home to some seriously satisfying comfort food dishes with a gourmet twist. The Pan Seared Chicken at Americana is cooked to perfection and paired with fresh seasonal sides, while the Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf offers rich, savory flavors wrapped in crispy bacon and topped with a tangy glaze. For a truly indulgent treat, the Truffled Mac & Cheese takes the classic dish to the next level with a creamy texture and rich truffle flavor. Each of these dishes provides the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, making them ideal for anyone craving familiar flavors with a touch of elegance.
americanadsm.com

 

Bubba

Neighborhood: Near Western Gateway
A go-to spot for Southern comfort food, Bubba offers all the classics your heart desires. For a weekend brunch, the Chicken Fried Steak & Eggs (shown above) will have you dreaming of home. Or at lunch or dinner, enjoy crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken, savory BBQ Meatloaf, creamy Pimento Mac and Cheese, hearty Chicken and Dumplings and rich Mushroom Pot Pie. For a sweet ending, indulge in a decadent slice of Whiskey Pecan Pie, served with vanilla bean ice cream and drizzled with caramel sauce. This Southern dining experience is perfect for satisfying any comfort food craving!
bubbadsm.com

Buzzard Billy’s

Neighborhood: Near Iowa Events Center & Principal Riverwalk
Comforting Southern-style dishes are the highlight at this Downtown DSM eatery. Enjoy hearty dishes like Country Fried Steak, crispy Southern Fried Chicken and Biscuits, savory Cajun Meatloaf or tender Country Fried Pork, each packed with cozy, home-cooked flavors. For dessert, the homemade apple crisp — served warm with soft-serve ice cream — is a must-try. Whether you’re seeking a savory feast or a sweet treat, this spot delivers goodness on all food fronts.
desmoines.buzzardbillys.com

Court Avenue Brewing Co.

Neighborhood: Historic Court District
Comforting, hearty dishes await at Court Avenue Brewing! The standout house-made meatloaf, topped with a rich root beer glaze, is a must-try. Paired with creamy white cheddar mashed potatoes and bacon-infused green beans, it’s a meal that warms your soul and fills you with cozy flavors. Whether you’re a local or visiting, this dish is the ultimate satisfying meal in a welcoming atmosphere. For the full experience, pair it with one of their craft beers! Keep your eyes peeled for comfort food specials, like CABCo Beef Pot Roast, Chicken Fried Steak or other warm, hearty dishes.
courtavebrew.com

Exile Brewing

Neighborhood: Near Western Gateway
A comforting twist on a classic, Exile’s Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf (pictured below) features a flavorful blend of Graziano sausage and beef, wrapped in crispy bacon and topped with their signature Forage BBQ sauce and a crispy onion haystack. Served with creamy mashed potatoes and fresh seasonal vegetables, this hearty meal is set to warm your soul. Whether you’re out with friends or enjoying a cozy meal solo, pair it with a craft beer for the full experience — like Exile’s Ruthie lager or Hannah wheat beer! Pro Tip: Convince your dining date to order the savory Smoked Mac and Cheese (shown above) and offer to share.
exilebrewing.com

 

High Life Lounge

Neighborhood: Near Historic Court District & Principal Park
For a serious comfort food craving, look no further than High Life Lounge. Known for its retro vibe and throwback menu, High Life Lounge serves up classic dishes that feel like a warm hug from home. Indulge in hearty favorites like their savory Meatloaf Dinner, Hot Beef or Hot Turkey sandwiches and the always-cozy Chicken Pot Pie. They’ve also got Beef Stroganoff, Goulash and Mom’s Pot Roast, each cooked to perfection and packed with nostalgic flavors. Whether you’re stopping in for lunch or dinner, these comfort food classics are sure to satisfy your appetite and leave you feeling full and happy!
thehighlifelounge.com

Iowa Taproom

Neighborhood: Historic East Village & Near Market District
There are several notable home-style meals available at Iowa Taproom, many with a unique little twist. Try the Hunter’s Chicken (pictured below), made with sauteed airline chicken breast smothered in mushrooms, onions, tomato, shallot and tarragon, then finished with a porter demi-glace next to smashed Yukon Gold taters and steamed broccoli. Or for something even more traditional, opt for the Iowa Chop (shown at top of page): pan-seared pork chop covered with whiskey gravy and mushrooms, plated next to smashed Yukon Golds and sauteed corn and peppers. Yum-yum!
iowataproom.com

 

Main Street Café & Bakery

Neighborhood: Downtown Core
Offering a variety of mouthwatering mac and cheese renditions that are sure to hit the spot, Main Street Café & Bakery is a haven for comfort food lovers. Choose from options like the classic White Cheddar Mac, savory Brisket Mac, Chicken Bacon Ranch Mac or the bold Buffalo Mac, each packed with delicious flavors. In addition to their mac and cheese creations, they serve up daily soup specials and cheesy, buttery grilled cheese melts that are perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner. For breakfast, give the plate-sized cinnamon rolls a try — just like your grandma used to make! Whether you’re craving something hearty or just looking for a comforting meal, you’ll feel right at home.
mainstreetcafeandbakery.com

 

Royal Mile

Neighborhood: Historic Court District
Royal Mile offers a comforting menu packed with British-inspired classics perfect for satisfying your cravings. Indulge in hearty dishes like their creamy Chicken Pot Pie, savory Shepherd’s Pie or their rich Royal Mac and Cheese. For something more robust, try the Steak & Guinness Pie or the Guinness Stew, served over fluffy mashed potatoes. Each dish delivers a warm, home-cooked feel that’s hard to resist. And no meal at the Royal Mile is complete without finishing off with their delicious sticky toffee pudding — a sweet, warm dessert that will leave you perfectly satisfied. It’s comfort food heaven, right in the heart of Downtown DSM!
royalmilebar.com

 

Looking for more? Check out this blog on places for warm food in Downtown Des Moines as the weather gets colder. And this roundup on where to find soup in Downtown DSM.

Find even more Downtown Des Moines restaurants, including yummy comfort food classics. Follow @downtownDSMUSA on Instagram for additional mouthwatering ideas and things to do, too.