Italian Restaurants in Des Moines (2025)
Downtown’s lively Italian‑inspired landmark pairs coal‑fired pizzas and handmade pastas with a bustling bar. Regularly highlighted by Eater and praised by Des Moines Register writers for shaping the city’s dining scene for two decades.
A South Side touchstone with a bocce court, scratch sauces, and cavatelli made daily. Celebrated by Cityview’s food writers and readers for steadfast hospitality and classic Calabrese‑leaning comfort.
Housed in a former family home, Baratta’s channels South Side Italian‑American traditions—lasagna al forno, steak de Burgo, and cannoli—while remaining active in community events. Profiled by local outlets for its deep neighborhood roots.
An East Side institution since 1947, known for chicken spiedini, hearty pastas, and old‑school hospitality. Local news coverage in 2024 confirmed its continued operation and family legacy on Hubbell Avenue.
Since 1956, Chuck’s has served tavern‑style pizza, Italian standards, and live‑music nights to Highland Park regulars. Noted by local editors and even city leaders as a go‑to for classic, nostalgic Italian fare.
Family‑run for over half a century, Hilltop is cherished for thin‑crust pizza, house onion rings, baked pastas, and Graziano‑sausage egg rolls. Featured in regional roundups of top Des Moines Italian spots.
A South Side favorite with roots in the 1970s, known for hearty red‑sauce plates and classic pies. Cited in coverage of Des Moines’ longest‑running restaurants for its staying power and neighborhood following.
Serving Des Moines since 1975, F&O’s introduced Chicago‑style deep dish to town alongside pastas and grinders. Locally recognized for signature Cheese Topper pies and a loyal multigenerational crowd.
Multi‑generation, South Side Italian‑American spot famous for thin‑crust pizza, onion rings, grinders, and sweets from its own bakery. Frequently noted by local food writers for tradition and value.
Intimate, dinner‑only Italian‑leaning supper spot famed for steak de Burgo, pastas, and complimentary red velvet cake. Recognized by the James Beard Foundation as a 2025 semifinalist for Outstanding Hospitality.