Stopped here while visiting a friend. Loved the bright and cheery atmosphere. Our waitress was extremely friendly and helpful when we asked her questions about the wine list and menu. We ordered the Smorgasbord and it was delicious. It came with an assortment of local meats and cheeses in a beautiful display. Each item was explained to us and where it came from when the board was delivered to our table. The board was more than enough food for the three of us to share. I can't wait to visit again and try more items on the menu!!! read more

Cheese Bar - Smorgasbord - Cheese Shops Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

The service was quick and extremely friendly. I went during lunch hour on a weekday and it was very busy, but totally worth it. The tomato soup was not too acidic with a hint of sweet, and the bleu grilled cheese paired with it perfectly. I was suggested their house salad, something lemon almond - I wasn't a huge fan just because everything seemed way too tart, and there wasn't a lot of balance. Because of the variety, and the quality of food, I'm still giving this place five solid stars and would definitely take someone else back here ! read more

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Really enjoyed our lunch, service was top notch as were the sandwiches. This place is a gem.

It was pretty inside the building and food was great! They gave us our food very quick. Service was good. read more

Cheese Bar - This is yummy - Cheese Shops Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

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Met a friend for lunch and she had never been to Cheese Bar, so she was excited to try it. I had never been for lunch, so was looking forward to trying something from the main menu. It was a cold, comfort food kind of day so mac & cheese sounded perfect. But so did the grilled cheese. Amazingly they had a lunch option with half grilled cheese (you can get the classic or fancy it up) and a side (with the mac & cheese was one of the options). It was a work day so just water for me today but the beer and wine list were extremely tempting. Service was good. Can't wait to come back. read more

Cheese Bar - Side of mac & cheese - Cheese Shops Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

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This place properly lives up to its name and has some damn good grilled cheese!! They know what they're doing with cheese alright! I love it here and highly recommend coming here for a casual lunchtime meal! The interior is bright and filled with classy, subtle cheese decor. They have a very gorgeous bar as well in addition to casual table seating throughout the space, making it a great place to go for lunch with coworkers, catchup with friends, and happy hour! We did carryout from here and got their lunch special, which is half a sandwich and a side. We both got the standard grilled cheese, but I was so intrigued by all the other grilled cheese options they have that add in different meats and veggies. I was suffering from a bit of decision fatigue though at this point in the day, so I couldn't make my mind up about which one sounded best, so I went with the original. So we got one original grilled cheese with the side lemony salad (super tasty and lemony, a bit too many pickled red onions proportionally in there for my taste, so I picked quite a substantial amount out) and another original grilled cheese with the tomato soup (very good, unique saucy consistency rather than soupy, and paired well with the grilled cheese). Definitely super interested in trying out the other items on their menu, like the other grilled cheeses and their charcuterie offerings. They clearly have a wonderful selection of local, Iowan cheeses among others and I just can't get enough of cheese! Check out their sister store a bit further west, The Cheese Shop, to take home any of the cheeses you loved eating here and discover so many more as well!! read more

Cheese Bar - Bar at The Cheese Bar - Cheese Shops Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

Went with some friends who live in town. I got the Mac and cheese, my friend got the special, and her husband also got Mac and cheese. The food was really good. The manager(possibly owner) chatted with us for a bit. He was very friendly and our server/bartender was as well. Both were knowledgeable about the food but also the beers on tap. The place was packed so we got to sit at the bar. Definitely will return when I am in town. read more

So many interesting flavors I would not have thought of for grilled cheese! Many gluten free options too. I only wish there were a gluten free Mac and cheese. The tomato soup with pesto was to die for. Good grub and great service! read more

Stopped by for some snacks and drinks with a friend. Was immediately met with a kind server that was willing to help and answer any questions. We got the loaded fries and ohhh myyy goodnesss they were amazing. The cheese sauce was hot and has a nice sharp bite. My drink (can't remember the name!) had butterfly pea flower and gin. The color was beautiful and had a nice tart flavor--the flower garnish was cute but was a bit unpleasant to chew on when sipping. We also split a fondue plate. I loved the presentation and the fact the skillet had a little holder with a candle to keep it warm. If you need a nice place to go on a date or catch up with a friend over amazing cheesy food with amazing service, this is the place for you. read more

Cheese Bar - Fondue - Cheese Shops Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

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3.75* (out of 5) Food: 4* Atmosphere: 4* Value: 3* Service: 4* 06/24/2022 Our friends invited us to a group outing here and we really enjoyed the experience. We started with drinks, including a Lost in the Woods (see picture) - which my wife loved. For dinner, we ordered a Cheese Meat Board (see picture) and the Fondue (see pictures) along with Loaded Fries (see picture) and Cheese Curds (see picture). All of them were fantastic - I can't think of one to call out in particular, so would recommend them all! The Loaded Fries were creamy and cheesy while the Cheese Curds were rich yet light at the same time. This is truly a tasty experience that you will want to enjoy with someone special - I recommend it. If you found this review helpful, please show your appreciation with a Like or a Follow. read more

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Passing on Ingersoll while some were out on bar patios watching the Carlin Clark and her Hawkeye Team -- I saw a small quaint diner. Entering I ordered Turkey and Brie with a Cranberry Lime Soda. The farm to market ingredients were beyond fresh, and the sandwich was palate worthy-- leaving a clean fresh taste that digested well. Parking in the back was good, seating more than adequate with very down to earth prices-- topping it off with a courteous wait staff. read more

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Wow! So happy we stumbled across this spot on Yelp! We love cheese and have nothing like this in Omaha, we're already dreaming about coming back. There was Happy Hour on sparking wines when we got there, $5 for a glass which is fabulous. The meat and cheese board was great, ($24, we got "anything goes") the chef came over and explained all the cheeses, meats, and other items on the board. The cheese curds. Wow. Amazing. Drooling writing this post. The herbed cheese on the side, who would have though, husband hates tomatoes but he was in love with the tomato pepper sauce! Seems weird to put those 3 items on a plate but they all went together perfectly! Delicious, chefs kiss! read more

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I've been here a good amount of times and I've been satisfied for the most part. Since I'm a vegetarian there aren't a ton of exciting items on the menu I can eat so I usually get the world famous mac. Its the best mac ive had in iowa but I so badly wish it had more seasoning and spice. I add a bunch of chili flake and it makes it a 10/10. The service ive had had has been pretty solid expect for my last to go order i placed. It was fairly busy in the restaurant but we were told our food would be ready in 10-15 min. Nearly an hour went by and we finally received our food, which was room temperature (im assuming it was done much sooner and they forgot about it). Ive gotten to go orders before and they've still been hot by the time I got home but that was far from what happened tonight. My fiance got a burger which turned to mush after sitting for so long which was incredibly disappointing and my mac was barely warm and required reheating. I understand that it was quite busy but I have to admit I'm a bit disappointed when I have to reheat a meal we spent 40 dollars on. That being said, the staff is very sweet and service is usually top notch and of course we will be coming back. read more

I literally know nothing of charcuterie etiquette and no one on this Yelp page told me how to order it so I'll tell you how I went about it. I told the serve I know nothing about charcuterie and didn't see a page of where to choose the meat and cheese on the menu. Turns out they just make the stuff and assortment for you based on the direction you want to go. I told her I liked brie and soft cheese types of stuff. And a few minutes later they came out with a wonderful assortment (btw I ordered the smorgasbord). The staff came out and described the cheeses and meats, where they get it from, and the significance of each. I highly recommend trying them even if you're a beginner like myself. They're filling and fun to pair. I also ordered a Malbec. Just my personal favorite. The staff does take their time, if you're sitting at the bar they'll typically join conversation. All in all my advice is just take your time enjoy yourself. The atmosphere is very relaxed and chill. read more

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Disclaimer this place basically only sells cheese based dishes. Took my vegan girlfriend here and she ended up getting a salad which she claimed to enjoy but was basically some lettuce with a lemon based vinaigrette. Otherwise, the food was pretty good. The food: I decided to get the grilled cheese and a side of Mac n cheese. I was rather happy I didn't choose the Mac n cheese as my main dish. It wasn't bad, but it's definitely the fancy Mac n cheese where there's a lot of breading on the top which I don't find very flavorful but rather aesthetically pleasing. The grilled cheese was definitely the best bang for your buck. It was really big with a lot of cheese on it, but not too overpowering. I was full by the time I finished it. We also ordered drinks which were superb! The service was good but we went later in the night where it was less busy and got undivided attention from our server so, I don't have the best insight on other hours. The place is pretty small either way, but definitely has a nice feel to it. It feels pretty modern and hipster and is literally next door to an art gallery. Overall, it's pretty cheap and the food is really good. It's definitely a nice place to go if you don't feel like spending hundreds at Django or somewhere similar (who also sell grilled cheese). I left a star because I'd like more menu options for people who don't eat cheese so I don't feel guilty coming here. read more

Cheese Bar - a grilled cheese sandwich with a side of mashed potatoes - Cheese Shops Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

The cheese bar is a great place to stop if you are cheese lover. The cheese curds are wonderful and great appetizer to order. All of the Mac and cheeses I have tried have been tasty. The environment is really laid back and it is easy to pop in for a good and filling lunch. read more

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We parked in back hoping there wasn't a wait. We waited about 5 minutes and we're seated. We've been here a few times and like everything we've had. After trying to decide for 20 minutes my wife ordered the La Quercia (a grilled cheese with blended cheeses, prisutto, and pepper jam)for us to split along with the loaded fries and a side blue cheese salad. Also descent craft beer and wine and mixed drink menu. Pics attached read more

Cheese Bar - Cheese Shops Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

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I love cheese Bar. We usually get here once or twice a year...The food is soooo awesome!! So I say this with caution our waitress was adorable and great!!!! We sat at a corner table.... All we heard was the bar tender Talking LOUDLY, Laughing extremely Loudly... he went to the back to the kitchen and you could hear him back there... He almost acted like he was high on something...I just expect staff of establishments to watch what they say in front of guests and at least comb their hair.. Lack of better words... Do better Dude!! Not everyone on the restaurant wants hear Everything you say and dress for the job you want and have a little respect for for the owner and behave yourself! read more

Cheese Bar - A Loud Gross Dude!! - Cheese Shops Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

I was born and raised in Iowa and this is my favorite restaurant in the Des Moines area! Every time I'm back in town I have to stop in and get some food! I've loved everything I've tried and their 2-5 happy hour is a good deal w $5 sparking wine and $5 snacks that seem to change pretty regularly. They definitely go the extra mile with each dish and it shows, highly recommend giving this place a try! The staff is always super knowledgeable on the menu and has great suggestions! read more

Cheese Bar - Cheese curds - Cheese Shops Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

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As someone who has eaten a lot of grilled cheese in my life, WOW! I popped in during a work trip to Des Moines, and I would definitely go back next time I'm in Des Moines. Food: I ordered the Bacon & Blue grilled cheese, and it was fantastic. There isn't a thing as kinda liking blue cheese. You're either all-in or all-out, and I'm a big blue cheese fan. The Cheese Bar puts a generous amount of blue cheese in your order, which I greatly appreciated. Drinks: I ordered the Big Grove Summer Jam which was refreshing. I was impressed by their selection of drafts including local Iowan beers. Service: I arrived soon after they opened for the day, and the staff was incredibly friendly. The staff member who waited on me even walked me out and opened the door when I was ready to go. Space: It's a bright and casual space. It's conducive to bringing your laptop, chilling at the bar, or a casual lunch. There was a range of ages when I visited. read more

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Just like the cheese shop: excellent service! The Royal Grilled Cheese was to croak for The chicken liver toast was really interesting and satisfying I'm a big fan! read more

Great place to go for a date! Went for happy hour & split a charcuterie board. Service was fast/helpful! The place was pretty busy but we were still able to get in. Can't wait to go back! read more

Cheese Bar - Cheese Shops Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

We LOVE the cheese bar! The grilled cheeses are an elevated spin on a childhood favorite. They have an alpine grilled cheese that is amazing! Caramelized onions and melted cheese make you feel like you're biting into French onion soup. Pair it with a nice glass of something from the bar and you have a fabulous Saturday afternoon treat right there. The service and vibes are all fantastic. The location on Ingersoll is awesome as well. read more

Our first visit here a few years ago my husband and I were underwhelmed. We have always loved the charm and coziness of the original Cheese Shop and were hoping for more of the same with their new location. Unfortunately, we were less than impressed. They stuck us at a small counter away from the main dining area and we felt like we were isolated from everyone else and missing out on all the action. But tonight we were seated in the dining area at a table and it was very nice. We didn't care for the communal seating they used to have with everyone sitting at one long table with friends and strangers alike. Now because of Covid they have smaller tables spaced away from each other. I like this configuration much better. It feels more intimate and cozy. Last time we came we ordered sandwiches that they offered at the Cheese Shop but at an increased price. We weren't happy about that. Their prices are higher than they used to be on some things but now they seem to have a more varied and larger menu. I do wish they had all the original sandwiches that the Cheese Shop used to make. I miss some of them. I got the bacon and onion mac and cheese which was wonderful. The fried onion strings were a great touch and the onion jam made it very tasty. The portion size was huge and I took home half of it for lunch the next day. We came with another couple and one of them ordered the Cuban sandwich. It was huge and two people could easily have split it. Our friend said it was delicious. My husband and I are going to get that the next time we come back. I love that they have so many things on their menu that weren't offered at the Cheese Shop. I want to try the fondue, raclette and salads. I'm so glad we gave them another chance because they really impressed us this time. I have to say the service was a little slow and it took quite awhile for us to get our check while there were people outside waiting for a table. But I'm willing to overlook it because it was pretty busy and things are tough right now. All the waitstaff were masked and they took precautions for Covid so I'm satisfied. read more

Cheese Bar - Bacon and onion mac and cheese - Cheese Shops Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

A place where adults and kiddos are both happy? Yes, it does exist!!! Wifee and I been to the sister restaurant a few years back. My sister told us that they opened this spot up so we went to check it out! What a menu... what a wine and beer beer menu! Tons of options by the bottle as well. Knowledgeable and fun stuff. Kids were very satisfied with their Mac and cheese and ate really good off of the meat and cheese plate we ordered. When in DSM, be sure to check this spot out! read more

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Great cheese (go figure) and all manner of cheese-based dishes to be found at Cheese Bar in DSM! We live in Omaha, Neb but heard this place had rockin boards and had to see for ourselves! I was not disappointed. I love how you could have some input in the cheese selections...crowd pleasers or anything goes! My favorite cheese was the locally made cheddar. And for me, an over-the-top board doesn't just have fantastic cheese and meats, it should also feature many accoutrements like jam, nuts, and spreads. This one had a great whole grain mustard, fig jam, and marcona almonds. The mac and cheese was decadent and almost too rich...a side dish would be plenty, even to share. The Cuban had the makings of a great sandwich, but it came down to execution. The bread was so crispy from being over toasted that it was hard to eat and enjoy. Soooo crunchy that it hurt my mouth to eat it. The pork was tasty but the mustard was so piquant that it bordered on unpleasant. The preserved lemon salad was fresh and bright. Our server offered to bring a cheese snack for our 18 month old, and I assumed it was going to be goldfish. Then they brought out this adorable little wooden board with hunks of yummy (but mild) local cheddar!! Major points scored with these foodie parents! The service was quite slow, which we expected thanks to yelp. read more

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The variety was great for cheese lovers. Even bring a cheese connoisseur I have not heard of certain ones. I don't expect the wait staff to know them personally but perhaps more explanation on the menu would help. The food was exceptional cheese taste great with everything . We sat outside and it was great weather and not crowded but keep in mind we came at 5 pm . Since they don't take reservations you have to plan accordingly . read more

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During my visit to Iowa, we stopped at this delightful establishment. The food was incredible, and the people were very kind. I would recommend it to others. read more

Went on a Friday at 7:15 and it was packed, but people were getting up to leave and we were sat by 7:30. Service was great and knowledgeable on their products. Ordered the cheese curds (delicious) and one of their grilled cheeses. Everything was great! Really love that they have great food and feels causal, not stuffy. read more

Such a great concept - all things cheese plate. Servers are the true cheese nerds and very knowledgeable. Definitely a great additive to the DSM food scene. read more

Cheese Bar - Cheese Shops Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

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What's not to love? Atmosphere, service, and food are always 10/10. A staple in my DSM dining rotation. Cheese curds are great if you have some folks to share with (but I've undoubtedly overdosed on these before..worth it). Try going early for the small bites..never a bad choice. I don't even want to mention this because I'll be sad if they're sold out..lol, but the cookies are a home run . Comes with 3 plus milk for dunking, and an absolute great way to end a meal. read more

Cool restaurant and seating is open. If its busy -- more than likely you will be sitting close to someone else. :) Half meat and cheese tray - loved this! Good mixture of meats and cheeses. We also got jelly, mustard, pickles and crackers. I would order this during a happy hour while drinking some wine or beer. Grilled cheese - you cannot go wrong with a grilled cheese. Split this with my dining partner. Mac n cheese - we opted for the side. Majority of it was burnt to the bottom of the pan. Overall taste was good, but probably would order some other time with meat added. Fried cheese curds with maple syrup Siracha - looks like sesame chicken, but taste delicious. I was afraid the maple syrup would make it taste weird, but it was delicious. read more

One of favorite places for comfort food and cocktails. My favorite is the seasonal tomatoes. Don't miss out on this amazing place.

Incredible food and great accommodations for vegetarians! Drinks are delicious as well and a fun atmosphere:)

My wife and I had been wanting to eat here for awhile. COVID-19 limited the seating to outside only, but the weather was good and this was no problem. Our hostess, server, and chef were all knowledgeable and kind. Basically everything on the menu I wanted to try. We settled on a cheese board and I also got a salad. To drink we went with a low sugar cola option (a gentle version of a coke = quite good). They have a full wine list to compliment the yummy stuff, but I was trying to cut back on alcohol during this visit . My wife is a bit pickier than me, but our kind server worked with us on making the cheese board just right for both of us. The three cheeses she chose were fantastic. I thought everything was wonderful. It got to the point where I was licking out the jam jar because the rest of the food had been devoured. Not a scrap remained and I'll be heading back soon for another sampling! read more

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This might sound cheesy, but this place is grate! ;) A girls night out to try new places and this is one we both had not made it to yet. Fight for the street parking or learn the hard way like me that there is parking in the back! Since I didn't know about the parking in the back, I entered the main street entrance. Met with a smile I did not see my friend yet. The bar was full, and the communal seating in the small dining area was almost full. This made me wrinkle my nose like I was smelling a stinky cheese. I am usually one that would rather be seated away from people, however I bit the brie and was sat near another group at the big table. I was sat right up against the windows where I could watch the guy walk his kid and child past a few times. The waitress was prompt and brought me water while I waited for my girl friend. Once she was there we went over the cheesy menu. It all looked unique and Gouda. I was curious and tried the lamb cheeseburger with the fresh chips. The burger was a little smaller, but the cheese sauce was yummy. I was not far from licking the plate . My girl friend got a crepe like meal. She wasn't as fond of it, but it was unique and different. The place started to pick up. Our waitress got a little sidetracked and got stuck at other tables. We enjoyed our time and finally finished up to head out. It's different. I'd recommend for something unique and new. read more

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What a great place! Fun! Relaxing! Yummy! We didn't dream it would be packed on a Wednesday at 5 pm but it was. You just squeeze in and sit close to whomever. ( Let's you see their food,too!). We decided to have a glass of house rose for $5. It was good! The waitress said if it's our first time here be sure to have the Mac and cheese-- we did with bacon for $2 more. We also shared the classic grilled cheese sandwich--can't go wrong with Prairie Breeze cheese! The bread was wonderful! The place is bright and has an urban feel. read more

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Looking for your next charcuterie date night? Cheese bar is the spot! Their staff is extremely knowledgable and will give you a very detailed rundown of your board (even some fun stories about where the cheese is from). Not a fan of a certain cheese? They will avoid similar cheese varieties to ensure your board is what you enjoy! Other menu options include fondue, sandwiches, mac & cheese, and salads. Lastly, nice wine selection and fun mixed drinks! read more

Cheese Bar - a variety of cheeses, meats, and crackers - Cheese Shops Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

I had a great experience at Cheese Bar this past June. After being sad that we couldn't find a restaurant that served Iowa corn, we researched that Iowa cheese is also a thing and a place called "Cheese Bar" seemed like the right place to try Iowa cheese. We were correct! Cheese Bar is in an up an coming neighborhood (or maybe it has already come) and seems pretty unassuming from the outside until you walk in and smell all the wafting smell of melting cheese. We had just driven from Chicago so we were all hungry. The restaurant was quaint and had a nice bar area. We sat at one of the tables off the bar with our 3 kids. Our server did an okay job throughout our experience. She wasn't super friendly, but our orders were correct. We had to track her down for refills. My son wanted chocolate milk but was disappointed with it. We ordered various grilled cheese sandwiches and mac & cheese and all of the food was amazing. Adults for sure will enjoy the richness of the cheese and they are generous with how much they use in their dishes. My kids liked their food, but I think it's for a more refined palette so stick with the original grilled cheese. I had blue cheese and bacon mixed into my sandwich and it was heavenly. I'd recommend anyone who loves cheese to stop in for lunch or dinner. Certainly worth the time for a great and cheesy treat! read more

This place is like walking into heaven for a cheese lover. Not only do they have a selection of fresh cheeses from Wisconsin that they use to make charcuterie boards, fondue boards, grilled cheese, Mac and cheese, and other sandwiches but they also have a nice bar with fun lite cocktails and wine options to pair with your meal. I decided to try the Royal Sandwich with a side order of Mac and Cheese. The side order of Mac was good but not something I would waste the limited space in my stomach on. Since I do love cheese, I don't really care for a ton of breadcrumbs to mask the wonderful cheese flavor and their style of mac and cheese included a crap ton of breadcrumbs making the pasta a little more dry than hoped. The Royal Sandwich, however, was worth every inch of stomach space I had. It's kind of like a grilled ham and cheese with bacon crumbles that is smothered in hollandaise sauce and topped with an over easy egg. It was phenomenal. I wish that I would've brought my husband on this work trip just so that he could try it. If you happen to be in the area, this is an entree that you have grab. The only negatives to this place is that they have very limited seating, so you could be waiting a little while for a table and I just happened to get a new waiter that wasn't super good at checking in on me and refilling my water. Otherwise, great place! read more

Cheese Bar - The Royal Sandwich - Cheese Shops Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

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