Des Moines Travel Guide: Des Moines Is More Than Corn Fields and the State Fair — Here’s What We Love About This Midwest Capital

"Speaking of the James Beard Awards, the chef-owner of this East Village “fine diner,” Chris Hoffman, was the sole Iowan nominated for a 2024 medal. Despite what the name says, Clyde’s is more than fine. With a relaxed yet sophisticated aura, some of the best smash burgers and fries in town, a frequently-rotating soft serve menu (whatever they’re swirling, get it with a warm oatmeal-chocolate chip cookie), and upscale seasonal entrees like housemade smoked sausage with dirty rice arancini and burnt carrot purée, it’s fantastic. “This is a favorite spot to meet up with my girlfriends or have a happy hour drink at the bar,” Chicchelly says." - Karla Walsh Karla Walsh Karla Walsh is a freelance writer based in Des Moines, Iowa. She has written about travel, health, food, wine, psychology, fitness, beauty, and beyond for more than 15 years. She has visited four continents and near