TrailSide Tap

We got here early to meet friends and grab a good seat for the live band. Sadly, the band ended up…read moresequestered in a closet-sized space on the main level since the wind made the rooftop off-limits. Bummer! The Service: We were eventually seated at a booth (the one with no working TVs), and while we were quickly greeted by Jennifer--who was our waitress for the night--we ended up waiting most of the evening for her to come back. We did get waters and drinks while waiting for our friends to arrive. Once they showed up, it took a little while to get the rest of our order in, but it all worked out in the end. They were very busy that night--between the Indiana Fever game, graduations, and a band crowd. Jennifer was hustling, along with her husband and one other waitress, trying to cover the whole place. So, while I can't (and won't) complain about the effort, they clearly needed more help to reach that 5-star level. Same goes for the bar--it was overwhelmed and absolutely needed more than one bartender to handle that crowd. Just a note for management: the team was working hard, but they were outnumbered. The Food: The kitchen was on the ball. Our appetizer of Brussels sprouts was delicious--great flavors, perfectly cooked--and they hit the table just moments before our entrees did. I had the jalapeño burger with the ridiculously long name (you'll know it when you see it), and added the $4 onion rings. The burger was fantastic--well made, full of flavor. The onion rings, while not quite worth the $4 upcharge as a side, were the crispiest onion rings I've ever had. Really good. Kim's wrap, on the other hand, was underwhelming--$14 for a tortilla shell mostly filled with lettuce and not much flavor. Our friends seemed happy with their meals and later ordered a bread pudding to share. We all had a sample, and while it was decent, it was definitely missing a sauce or something to make it pop. The Value: Our bill--1 appetizer, 2 meals, and 4 drinks--came to over $100 plus tip. (Now that I'm writing this, I kind of wish I'd looked at the receipt more closely.) Still, that seems to be the going rate for this kind of night out in the greater Des Moines area these days. Pro Tip: Try coming during happy hour to stretch your dollars a bit further.

Boyfriend and I both ordered burgers and they were both good. Mine could have used more sauce, but…read morethe place was busy I never got the chance to ask for more before I was finished eating. We tried both the signature fries and the double batter fries. The double batter fries were my favorite, but both options are good. Service was good, but sometimes a little slow. We sat at the bar and they only had one bartender on a Friday night. It didn't bother us much since we were just hanging out watching football, but could be bothersome if you are in a in a rush. Good place to watch sports and have a burger and some beer.

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Nasty burger

Tribute Eatery & Bar

4.2(19 reviews)

went for oystas during happy hr but they 86'd them. boo. but got the spin artichoke dip, crispy…read morerice with tuna, & deviled eggs. soooo good!!! old fashions, espresso martini, & a beer called liquid hugs. it was still a great experience, as always..and our waitress was amazing!!

We were in Ankeny this past weekend celebrating my daughter's graduation from Iowa State and…read moredecided to try Tribute Eatery & Bar and I'm so glad we did! Our group ordered a mix of pasta dishes and steak frites, and everything was excellent. The steak was cooked perfectly, the pasta was fresh and flavorful, and the prickly pear spicy margarita was absolutely fantastic. The atmosphere is really cool too, stylish without feeling overdone, and the location is great. We also had wonderful service, especially considering we came in around 8 PM on a Sunday evening with a group. Definitely recommend if you're in the Ankeny area. We'd absolutely come back!

A view from the reception area

Deviled Eggs!

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Rigatonni

Yankee Clipper

4.0(42 reviews)

0.1 mi

•$

Good local spot Cold drinks friendly service…read more Chicken on nachos was only knock on the place

Taco Tuesday is ok, not good. Service sub par at best,…read more STOP assuming everyone that walks in the door is a lifer and knows that just because the locals know it's Taco Tuesday that it means no point in the menu, except it doesn't. I had no idea if there was meat choices (there isn't) or toppings or sides (there are sides like fries) I'm glad I asked for the menu, as I almost thought about the nachos. Which I would have not known about if I hadn't seen a menu. We did not appreciate the rudeness when she asked if we were ready to order and I replied how would we know we haven't seen a menu. Just for her to roll her eyes and come back and toss them on the table. That attitude made me not want to spend my money there and my tip absolutely reflected her poor behavior. She could have earned 20 from me alone out of our group, instead of what was left over from the change. I work in the service industry and I appreciate both good food and service and it also would have been nice if our checks were correct but I have learned to pick and chose my battles but that also helped contribute to her not super tip. To the taco loved the shell it's like fry bread and one taco is the entire basket you have been warned. Sadly it wasn't really warm my fries were not even close to warm and definitely floppy. Really the stinker of the show was the server, so don't expect much.

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Whiskey River Ankeny

2.3(167 reviews)

First time visit on a late Sunday afternoon. Food was just OK - Macaroni & Cheese came out nice and…read morehot ....a little heavy on garlic seasoning but overall good. The salad dressing (italian) had an "off" flavor so didn't eat more than a bite. Service was OK also - server couldn't answer a question if their Chili was made with added beer & just said "he didn't watch them make it" and didn't seem interested in finding the answer. Would probably go back if someone else wanted to go, but wouldn't make it my first choice.

Great atmosphere, drinks, and service. We will be back next Junior Olympics and will bring the…read moreentire coaching staff.

Bacon burger

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Baked Cavatelli

30hop

4.0(79 reviews)

1.2 mi

Its brunch time here at 30hop, the menu selections all look delicious. I sadly didn't try any this…read moretime only because I was craving a burger and Brussel sprouts. Oh and my favorite soup in the area the tomatoes basil bisque. So I ordered the 30hop burger I did take off the lettuce only because of the recent situation. I did end up taking off the tomato as well it didn't hence the burger and made it taste off. Ate them on the side with the ranch. My only thing I wish they would improve on is to thicken up their ranch its so thin it drips off quickly and is all over the place. Allison K did an amazing job with answering my questions and the next time I come back in the Turkey Panini will be my next choice with the soup dipper option. Highly recommend stopping in there's a little for everyone on the menu.

My friend and I came here on a Saturday night, and although it was quite busy, we were seated right…read moreaway. The service was excellent--our waiter was kind, attentive, and made us feel well taken care of. I ordered the yakisoba bowl without any meat add-ins, and I'm so glad I did. It was easily the best yakisoba I've ever had. The sauce leans more sweet than salty, which made it really unique and flavorful. I absolutely loved it. I would definitely recommend stopping by if you're in the area. I definitely think it would be a great spot to watch any sporting event. It is winter time, but looks like it would be a nice spot in the summer. I can't wait to come back and try more items on the menu!

The Korean Steak Sandwich with side of Wok Veggies $18.99

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Old Fashioned

The Ankeny Diner

3.7(140 reviews)

1.5 mi

•$

One of my favorite spots in Ankeny to eat. Food is always good and prices are reasonable.read more

Our server Lilly was very gracious, prompt service throughout…read more Had the two breakfasts in the photos, meals were hot and delicious. Diner is casual, older style decor, from the Coke Cola vending machine, table condiments, black / white tile floor, to the soda fountain and counter. Absolutely wonderful experience, reasonable prices, would certainly recommend this diner.

Full Bar.

Cinnamon Swirl French Toast 2 pc, with side order of Sausage Links.

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Menu June 2023

The Chicken Coop - Ankeny

3.2(80 reviews)

2.0 mi

Great wings we did traditional hot and Jack Daniel's with sauce on the side excellent service loved…read morethe game selections on the TVs it's a must try!

Our server was the sweetest guy! We went during happy hour for my friends bday and they made it so…read morespecial! The happy hour specials were great. Not upscale, but nice people, great prices, and good food!

All games are on the TVs

Jack Daniel's Wings perfect

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Best sports bar in Ankeny Jack Daniel's and hot wings are my favorite! Kudos to the bartender excellent service great TVs

Birdies Tavern + Grill

4.1(10 reviews)

Where to begin, I'll just do a list: 1) I had the double…read moreBall Breakfast burger and it was incredible. Juicy, cooked perfect, sauce was awesome and came out super quick. Almost every Bar-food type place I go to leaves me disappointed when I get burgers and this place was really good and reasonably priced. Wife got the steak melt and absolutely loved it as well. Both came out fast and fresh. Fries were very good as well. 2) Service was great, it almost looked understaffed because of how few people were running around but it definitely did not feel that way at all. Our server seemed to read our minds coming by exactly when we were ready to order or whatever else. Also friendly and personable without being overbearing at all. 3) Price was good, before tip around $50 for two people. 2 entrees, beer and soda, and a piece of cheesecake to top it off. I would usually almost think thats a little pricey for american food, but this was so delicious it was worth every penny. Somehow hadn't found this place despite being only 5 min from us but we will absolutely be making this a regular dinner spot when we feel too lazy to cook! Minor complaint, the table behind the "Seat yourself" stand def needs a fix cus that thing was wobbly as heck. Might've been an annoyance if I hadn't been so busy devouring my food to notice.

First time at Birdies. Waitress nice but asked if the boneless wings were good. She said she…read moredidn't know. I asked about the smash burgers. She gave the same answer. She hasn't tried anything on the menu. Not her fault, this is a glaring training issue. You can't put people on the floor that don't have an idea of the menu. She was super nice. Probably won't return.

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Curbin' Cuisine

4.6(92 reviews)

2.0 mi

I went here first back when they were a food truck and this was my first time at their brick and…read moremortar spot. It's an easy, tasty, fast casual spot in a great location and the food is always unique and tasty. I had the bang bang mac and cheese which was spicy and delicious with popcorn chicken and a bang bang drizzle on top. We also shared the pb&j fries which we were curious about and they way over delivered, I did not know that was going to be so good. The servers were great and quick as we were in a bit of a rush so the speed was much appreciated.

Superb initial visit, and wondered why I had not been here since moving to Ankeny this summer. An…read moreoutstanding combination of food quality, good overall vibe, solid pricing, great menu, and options. We ate inside the restaurant, which is a fun venue with cool decorations and theme. Loved the booth setting. Sound was fine. They also have a drive-thru option. My burger was excellent, cooked flawlessly, and the accompanying fries were perfect. A really good overall experience, kind customer service accompanied everything.

All Natural Gluten Free Asian Mexican Seasoning

All Natural Gluten Free All Purpose Seasoning

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All Natural Gluten Free Italian Seasoning

The Waiting Room

3.5(2 reviews)

0.1 mi

Bartenders are some of the best in town. The food is awesome, vibes are immaculate. Have been here…read moremultiple times and it keeps me coming back!

I think the owners forgot that they are advertising this as an upscale location. Saturday night and…read moreinstead of the "comforting blue glow" and "top notch cocktail bar" prominently mentioned throughout the website, it was just another sports bar. A cage fight on one of the tv's was on full volume pumping through the bars sound system, the sophisticated cocktail menu was just some soggy paper menus. Bartender seemed annoyed we even showed up which was interesting given the nearly empty place. Ankeny desperately needs a cocktail lounge but this isn't it.

Mulberry Mule

Wall mural of the high trestle trail bridge

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Drink menus

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Juliet R.

6 years ago

We had lunch here the other day it was ok not great not bad but prob won't tell anyone about it lol.... anyways its decently priced and food came out quick so that was a bonus read more

McFly G.

4 years ago

Great food selection and always fresh. Cool and fun atmosphere for drinks or grabbing a bite to eat. The staff is great!

Donnie F.

4 years ago

Love this place !!!!! My first time there was a few months ago and now go as many times as my wife will let me

Larry H.

9 months ago

Very expensive. $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$%$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

Lauralee B.

2 years ago

Great service! Very friendly! The food was fast and hot. Limited menu the two times I have been there.

Jeff P.

4 years ago

Great menu always delicious, always something new. Great service and a large selection I'd beer.

Tim K.

2 years ago

''Twas a nice experience, coming back again hopefully, and with my family maybe, when I have one

TrailSide Tap - bars - Updated August 2026

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Skips

4.3

(229 reviews)

10/10 taste 10/10 service (shoutout Tiffany + Katie)…read moreAnd chill vibes. I'll be back when in town

Out of towners, looking for a solid meal that isn't a chain restaurant. Skips hit the spot…read more Food is phenomenal. We had the bruschetta, chicken quesadilla and chicken noodle soup. Very good, very big portions.

Tribute Eatery & Bar

4.2

(19 reviews)

Mullets

4.1

(368 reviews)

We always like to try a unique place to eat if we can find one as we are traveling. Since we were…read morealready planning an evening meal in Omaha at the end of the day it made sense to start out with a breakfast in Des Moines. based on reviews in Yelp we chose Mullets. Mostly because it sounded really cool to see the pictures of mullets that decorate the restaurant. I didn't think of the fish called a mullet, but they have creatively used both the Fish and the hairstyle to create a fun logo. I loved the poster of all of the presidents of the United States wearing mullets that was in the entry vestibule. My husband had the Burt Ends Benedict. It was delicious, with generous sized chunks of meat in BBQ sauce under the poached eggs and hollandaise sauce. I had the Country Fried Steak breakfast with hash browns and hard scrambled eggs. Everything on my plate was perfect and delicious. The gravy was outstanding! Probably the best restaurant gravy I've ever had. On my next visit I'm planning to order the same thing, but I'll request gravy on the eggs and potatoes as well. We shared an order of cinnamon roll pancakes. They were delicious, and super sweet. Overall, the staff was friendly and efficient and we will definitely be back.

I recently became pescatarian and finding things I can eat when out with friends can be difficult…read more I was excited to see that they had a veggie burrito on the menu. I was less excited when the burrito came and the waitress said "I have a... sad burrito.. sorry" It was small, had no seasoning, and didn't come with a side because the burrito that comes with meat is big enough to not need one but the veggie one is super small, barley making it a meal. I was so hungry that I ate it and didn't want to make a big deal about it to the waitress that was doing her best. My friends got fun waffles and scrambles but I was looking for something with no meat and protein. Overall, it could have been a better made burrito, either with ingredients or with a side.

Park Street Kitchen & Bar

3.7

(35 reviews)

Chris. Was a great host and we had a blast at the same time. He was awesome so was Ragaenread more

Hotel restaurant at its best. Great service and great food. They had many options on the menu and I…read morepicked the salmon with asparagus and broccoli. Delicious. The salmon tasted great and the charred asparagus didn't disappoint. I am staying at the hotel and they are open until 10 so good for a late dinner in a nice environment. Decently priced and I will definitely come back. Way to go Des Moines!!

The Republic on Grand

4.2

(143 reviews)

The classic hotel rooftop bar. Their menu is small, but the views and vibe are great. I've had…read morealmost everything on the menu and never had a bad meal. Republic is great for meeting friends, having an appetizer or eating a dinner when staying at the hotel. It's a fun place and would be good for a date as well. They have a full bar, TVs and a variety of seating options. Flatbread pizza and the Gnocchi are my favorites. The waitstaff is always friendly, but there is usually only the bartender and one other person. If you are in a hurry sit at the bar.

We went here for their Rudolph on the Rooftop holiday pop up. We loved the Christmas deco, and the…read morevibe was merry. The food was good. I really enjoyed the pesto and tuna and charcuterie board. Our waitress checked in on us often. We would come back here.

The Breakfast Club

4.2

(252 reviews)

This place was delicious. Conveniently located downtown in the east village. Big portions and great…read moredrinks. I'll definitely be back. I'd recommend the breakfast burrito. It was packed with flavor and the queso on top was delicious.

Super convenient to the East Village hotels, not far from the business district or the Capitol…read moreBuilding. We eat here almost every time we stay at the AC Hotel across the street. All of the menu is good, but my favorite are the omlettes or crepes. The service is always reliable and the people are friendly. It can get crowded on weekends for sure, and it's all street parking so be ready to feed the meter or walk a bit. Nice atmosphere, good food and convenient.

Bailey's Pub and Grub

4.4

(14 reviews)

The food was great. And so were the drinks. Very reasonable prices. Very food and friendly staff…read more Recommend.

This Sunday morning took my son and I down the rabbit hole again. We landed down on Euclid at the…read morehighly recommended Bailey's Pub N Grub for breakfast. I've driven by Bailey's many times and haven't stopped in. Not sure why...just haven't. I had no idea there is a pretty large gravel parking lot that sits behind the building. Parking isn't an issue even on a Sunday morning when it's apparently REALLY popular. Lol We walked in at about 1000 AM or so. Subtly lit neighborhood bar and grill. It's seat yourself and they come to your table to take your order. My best guess is that when they aren't swamped your bill is presented to you at the table and the payment is done there (cash and cards). Today if was easier for me to walk up and take care of it at the bar. Not an issues for me. When you can only see one staff member taking orders and one other one clearing tables...you have to choose to be a little patient and flexible. Seating is mostly low top tables and chairs. The bar and bar stools. And one booth maybe...unless my eyes were playing tricks on me. We grabbed a low top table and were approached within a few minutes. There were only two open tables when we walked in. Our server was either a manager or maybe the owner...and the bartender. She welcomed us to "her organized chaos." She did a fantastic job considering the place was packed. How does that old saying go...? Busier than a one legged man at a butt kicking contest? After we got our drinks (fountain Pepsi products) she stopped back in a few minutes for our order. I ordered the everything omelet with white toast and a half order of biscuits and gravy. My son ordered two pancakes and two eggs sunny side up. $31 and change before tip. When my son ordered two pancakes she let us know they were as big as dinner plates...and if he finished both she just might put him up on her wall. He's 15 but not little. He's a starting DE for Valley's Sophomore football team. He'd actually considered ordering three and no eggs before she got to our table and had backed it down to two since he had practice later today. It was a short wait for our food. The cook must be back there hammering out orders like a mad man... It took a couple of trips for everything to hit the table but it was hot and fresh. The plate with the biscuits and gravy was super hot... My omelet and hashbrowns were great. I forgot to ask if I could get the hashbrowns extra crispy so they were a little bit less cooked than I normally like, but that's on me. Those biscuits and gravy... Wow! I'd compare them to the gravy I got at East Side Eddie's a couple of weeks ago... Same great caliber! Not the standard white country stuff Cracker Barrel or other vanilla places that get it from Sysco serve... One that is seasoned and where the sausage is cooked in...not just thrown in as an afterthought. Next time... Even though everything was good...I'd probably order a full order of the biscuits and gravy or the hashbrowns with gravy. And to be fully transparent... There was plenty of that magical goodness so I made my own with what I had. I scooped the gravy off that plate on to my hashbrowns. Thanks to my toast I didn't leave a bit of it on either dish. So good! My son pointed something out to me that made us both laugh... "Hey dad. I think they cooked my pancakes right after (or with) your hashbrowns." If you look close at the picture you can see a few potato shreds sticking out of the edge of his pancakes. It didn't slow him down. He finished both and his eggs. The first one was a normal pancake, but that second one was so thick... He compared it to the size of a regular sheet cake. It had a rise on one side that was probably two inches tall. He was glad he didn't go for three. Lol I have been continually impressed with the breakfasts you can find at our neighborhood bar and grills and Bailey's is no exception! Great food in a basic no frills atmosphere. The crowd was lively and fun...even on a Sunday morning. Definitely a lot of regulars, but we were treated with the same hospitality as everyone else. If you haven't stopped in before maybe think about popping in and showing Bailey's some love!

The Handlebar

3.7

(61 reviews)