Welcome to Greenwood Historic: Des Moines’ Delectable Dining District
Steeped in leafy streets and classic architecture, the Greenwood Historic neighborhood in Des Moines is more than a postcard scene—it’s a foodie’s dream come true. This west-side enclave is home to a thriving, ever-evolving food scene where old favorites brush elbows with new upstarts. Whether you’re after artisan pastries, a laid-back brunch, or dinner worth writing home about, Greenwood Historic delivers with flavor, flair, and genuinely neighborly charm.
Let’s take a flavorful stroll through Greenwood Historic, sharing local favorites, hidden treasures, and the culinary traditions that make this neighborhood a destination for every palate and price point.
Where Flavor and History Meet: Popular Restaurant Destinations
If there’s one intersection synonymous with good eats in Greenwood Historic, it’s the stretch around 42nd and University Avenue. Here you’ll find both the fan-favorite staples and the kind of spots that keep locals in-the-know.
- Gateway Market & Café (2002 Woodland Ave)
Don’t be fooled by the grocery store setting—Gateway Market’s café is a destination in its own right. Fresh, globally inspired sandwiches, homemade soups, and vibrant salads make this a go-to for lunch, with prices ranging from $8–$15. Locals rave about the Reuben and the Spicy Chicken Salad. The café’s lively patio is a perfect people-watching perch in warmer months.
- Simon’s (5800 Franklin Ave)
Just beyond Greenwood’s traditional border but close enough for a breezy walk, Simon’s is an institution—the kind of Italian spot where red sauce nostalgia and hefty portions rule. Don’t skip the house lasagna or the complimentary dessert Simon himself brings to every table. Dinner entrees run $15–$27, and reservations are wise on weekends.
- Harbinger (2724 Ingersoll Ave)
For something more adventurous, Harbinger redefines modern Midwest dining with its Asian-inspired small plates and farm-to-table ethos. The chef’s tasting menu is a splurge ($65+), but even a few à la carte choices—like the fried oyster mushrooms—are revelatory. Reservations recommended, especially on Friday and Saturday nights.
Coffee Shops and Bakeries: The Heartbeat of Greenwood
A good neighborhood needs great coffee, and Greenwood Historic overachieves in this department. Whether you seek a quick caffeine jolt before a bike ride on the nearby trails or a slow Saturday morning with a scone, the options abound.
- Grounds for Celebration (2709 Beaver Ave)
Beloved by neighbors and students alike, this cozy local chain roasts its own beans and crafts exceptional espresso drinks. Their scones and breakfast burritos ($5–$9) make mornings worth waking up for, and the cheery, plant-filled café is as much a hangout as it is a coffee stop.
- La Mie Bakery (841 42nd St)
What Greenwood lacks in number of bakeries, it makes up for in sheer excellence. La Mie is legendary across the city for crusty baguettes, flawless croissants, quiches, and vividly decorated fruit tarts. Lunch options (try the curried chicken salad sandwich!) run $8–$13, and you’ll want to bring home a box of pastries for neighbors—or yourself.
Neighborhood Cafés and Brunch Favorites
From sunlit weekend brunches to casual weekday lunches, Greenwood’s collection of cafés offers something for every mood.
- Drake Diner (1111 25th St)
Located just east of Greenwood Historic, this ‘50s-style diner is an all-day breakfast classic—famous for giant cinnamon rolls, fluffy pancakes, and hearty sandwiches ($7–$13). Ask any local, and they’ll tell you: the bottomless coffee and vintage neon signs are pure Des Moines comfort.
- Gusto Pizza Co. (1905 Ingersoll Ave)
Pizza isn’t just for dinner—at Gusto, inventive pies with names like “Debbie Pepperoni” and “Vincent Van Goat” draw lunch and dinner crowds alike. With plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options, plus generous happy hour deals, Gusto is a family-friendly favorite (average pies $12–$19).
Tasty on the Go: Food Trucks and Pop-Ups
Greenwood Historic’s community squares and nearby parks set the stage for a lively, ever-changing lineup of food trucks and pop-ups—especially from April through October.
- Pho Wheels (various locations)
This sleek Vietnamese-Midwest fusion truck parks regularly at Greenwood Park during city events, serving up heavenly banh mi sandwiches ($8) and piping hot pho bowls ($11). Follow their socials for the weekly schedule.
- Big Acai Bowl (pop-up at 42nd St & University Ave most Saturdays)
If you’re after a healthy twist, Big Acai Bowl crafts smoothie bowls topped with fresh fruit, granola, and local honey ($8–$12). Perfect fuel for a stroll down Polk Boulevard.
Hidden Gems and Neighborhood Secrets
Some of Greenwood Historic’s best eats aren’t found on foodie maps—but that’s half the fun.
- The Cheese Bar (2925 Ingersoll Ave)
Quietly housed in a sleek storefront, this cheese lover’s paradise offers grilled cheese masterpieces, fine wine, and a retail case for take-home delights. Build your own cheese and charcuterie board (average $15–$20) and sample flights from Iowa creameries. It’s a low-key date night favorite.
- C Fresh Market (801 University Ave)
This sprawling Asian grocery and prepared foods market is a haven for international snacks, Vietnamese iced coffee, and steaming bowls of pho ($10). The lunch counter is informal—grab a tray and savor some of the best-value eats in the city.
Food Traditions and Community Flavor
What ties Greenwood Historic’s food scene together isn’t just quality—it’s community. Annual street festivals like “Greenwood Art & Eats” draw local bakeries, pop-ups, and food trucks alongside musicians and artists, turning casual intersections into open-air tasting rooms. While restaurants rotate, friendly service, local ingredients, and a relaxed, welcoming vibe are constants.
Final Bites: Your Perfect Greenwood Food Adventure
With its blend of cozy cafés, buzz-worthy restaurants, wandering food trucks, and neighborhood bakeries, Greenwood Historic stakes its claim as one of Des Moines’ top dining destinations. Whether you’re new to Des Moines or rediscovering an old favorite, grab a fork (or a pastry box) and let Greenwood’s streets lead you on your next great meal.
Come hungry. Leave happy. And don’t forget to tell a friend where you found Des Moines’ tastiest neighborhood.