City: Des Moines, IA

Category: Restaurants

Telephone: (515) 243-1115

Address: 420 E. Locust St.

Insider Pick:

Description: The all-prix-fixe menu at this trendy East Village spot is like the decor: deceptively simple. In the narrow room with white walls, blond wood floors, and a small finishing kitchen hidden behind a central counter, the only list of offerings is a thin slip of paper with a few words written on it: the names of the dishes. A young, energetic server in black drops by your table and launches into descriptions of the most enticing sort, including pan-fried duck livers, gnocchi with sage, and lamb shoulder cooked with Moroccan spices. After a few descriptions it’s tough to keep up, so you’ll ask him or her to repeat the list—and still not be able to decide. When you do, however, the food is wonderful, exceptionally prepared, and with imaginative flavorings. Dinners, which frequently change, are served in 2 courses, a small plate followed by a large plate, which typically includes a number of selections including fish, chicken, and red-meat options. Small-plate mainstays include a fluffy risotto and nicely seasoned duck. The wine list is lengthy and varied and your server can recommend a good bottle.