The Best Lunch Spots in West Des Moines
West Des Moines has emerged as one of the most dynamic dining destinations in the Des Moines metro area. The suburban city offers a remarkable variety of lunch options that range from family-owned Italian restaurants to modern Asian fusion kitchens and everything in between.
Whether you are a local professional looking for a reliable weekday lunch spot, a family searching for a restaurant that pleases everyone at the table, or a visitor exploring what Iowa has to offer, West Des Moines delivers with quality, variety, and value.
This guide highlights six of the best restaurants for lunch in the area, each selected for consistently excellent food, welcoming atmosphere, and strong local reputation.
Baratta's Italian Restaurant
Classic Italian-American comfort food with generous portions in a warm, family-friendly setting.
Read full review →Gilroy's Kitchen + Pub + Patio
Creative American pub fare, craft cocktails, and one of the best patios in West Des Moines.
Read full review →Greenbriar Restaurant & Bar
Refined American cuisine with seasonal menus in an upscale yet approachable atmosphere.
Read full review →High Life Lounge
Outstanding burgers and Midwestern comfort food in a retro-styled, laid-back atmosphere.
Read full review →The Machine Shed Restaurant
Farm-themed dining with hearty country cooking and oversized portions.
Read full review →Wasabi Chi
Fresh sushi, poke bowls, and Asian fusion cuisine made with quality ingredients.
Read full review →Planning Your Lunch in West Des Moines
The lunch rush in West Des Moines typically peaks between 11:45 AM and 1:00 PM on weekdays. For the best experience, try to arrive before 11:30 AM or after 1:15 PM. Reservations are recommended at Greenbriar and Gilroy's, particularly toward the end of the work week.
Most restaurants in this guide offer convenient parking and are located along major commercial corridors, making them easy to access from nearby office parks and residential areas. Several are located within a short drive of each other, so you can explore multiple options over the course of a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
The top lunch spots include Baratta's Italian for classic pasta and pizza, Gilroy's Kitchen for creative pub fare with a great patio, Machine Shed for hearty farm-style meals, and Wasabi Chi for fresh sushi and Asian fusion.
Greenbriar offers upscale American dining ideal for business lunches, while High Life Lounge delivers outstanding burgers at very affordable prices. Each restaurant brings something unique to the West Des Moines lunch scene.
High Life Lounge is widely considered to have some of the best burgers in the entire Des Moines metro area. Their hand-pressed patties are cooked to order and served with creative toppings in a retro atmosphere.
Gilroy's Kitchen also offers excellent burgers with gourmet toppings and thick, juicy patties. Both restaurants provide quality burger experiences at reasonable prices.
Greenbriar Restaurant & Bar is the top choice for business lunches. The refined atmosphere, attentive service, and well-spaced tables create an ideal environment for professional meetings and client entertainment.
Gilroy's Kitchen also works well for less formal business meals, offering a polished setting with excellent food and drink options. Both restaurants accept reservations, which is recommended for business dining.
Wasabi Chi is the standout option for Asian cuisine in West Des Moines. They specialize in fresh sushi, poke bowls, ramen, and creative Asian fusion dishes that use quality ingredients and skilled preparation.
The restaurant offers lunch specials and portions designed for a midday meal. It is an excellent choice for diners looking for a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional Midwestern fare.
Machine Shed Restaurant and Baratta's Italian are both excellent family-friendly options. Machine Shed's farm theme appeals to kids, and the generous portions ensure everyone leaves satisfied. Baratta's offers a welcoming atmosphere with a children's menu.
Both restaurants have spacious dining rooms that accommodate families comfortably, and the staff at each location is experienced in serving guests of all ages.