Aposto at the Scala House

Aposto has a lovely atmosphere and some delicious dishes. The polenta cakes were a fan favorite as they were both light and crispy, and the sauce added a wonderful depth of flavor. For entrees, we liked the gnocchi’s lightness as each pesto lemon bite was really nice. However, the way it’s portioned makes the meal seem quite small, and there is very little crab in the dish itself. We ordered the duck special over risotto as well. The confit duck leg was cooked and spiced to perfection, but it’s accompanying risotto lacked a flavor punch. For dessert, neither of us were wowed. They were decent and flavored as advertised, but they also didn’t quite hit the mark. We did adore our wines (especially the orange wine).

We came here for an early dinner on my birthday. I absolutely love that the restaurant is nestled in a historic landmark! The mix of modern with Victorian undertones really sets a romantic atmosphere but it's also chill enough to meet with friends here, too. We opted to sit inside for dinner because it was a little windy out. They placed us at a table on the bar side which made for a pretty view. Now, about the food. We got the Pizza Fritta to start. The pork belly and kimchi was such a good combo. Not sure if they also make their own kimchi but it wasn't over-powering like a lot of places that try to do fusion. The Arugula Agnolotti and Gnocchi with crab were perfect for our entrées. Everything was extraordinary! The flavors melded so well and you can tell that the chef put a lot of thought into the menu. So, so good! I'm a sucker for housemade pasta... I'm getting hungry just thinking about it! Anyway, neither of us are drinking at this time so we decided to forgo the sparkling wine starter and got coffee and tea instead. We're both pretty well-versed in coffee and I have to say that this is some of the best coffee I've had in town. Apparently, it's their own special blend from Zanzibar, a coffee shop on Ingersoll. I will definitely be getting a bag of that if I can! As for dessert, neither of us are big on sweets but it was my birthday so we got the crème brûlée and olive oil cake. They were absolutely delectable! If you had to choose only one I'd go crème brûlée all day! Joseph was our server all night. He was wonderful! And, made so many great suggestions. He obviously knows the menu well. Ask for him when you go!

If you’re looking for an elegant date night this is the place to be. Reservations in advance is a must. Cozy quarters inside an old mansion. Great atmosphere paired with great friendly service. The food and drinks are top tier and bring the price tag along. Menu changes monthly I believe and there was not 1 thing on the menu when we went.

Worth every cent! From the moment you walk in to this place, you feel special. It has a romantic and warm feel with many intimate rooms. For our anniversary, we were given a champagne toast on the house. The beet salad had all the right flavors to start off our meal. The polenta cakes were to die for!! They smelled so delicious when the showed up to the table that I could only muster a half eaten picture. The gnocchi was worth all of the hype. Perfect texture with amazing warm crab and flavors that are unlike anything else in Des Moines. My husband had the house special of the night that included shrimp and andouille ravioli. Amazing! Our server was very attentive and knowledgeable with great recommendations. This place does not miss out on a single detailWe will definitely be back to enjoy our meal on the patio next time.

We had a fantastic time here! The gnocchi was absolutely amazing. The only time I’ve had better gnocchi was in Rome, Italy! We loved the cavatelli too. Also great wine selection. We are huge foodies and were completely impressed by the service and quality. Will definitely be returning. Perfect date night spot. Thank you!!

If you want an exceptional dining experience this is the place to go! Our server made excellent suggestions for what dishes to try and what wines to pair with them. It was all delicious and we had a wonderful evening!

Sat at a little 2 seater table by a window overlooking the street. There was a decent amount of street parking available. Server was friendly and attentive and even added a candle to my dessert after overhearing it was my birthday. We tried quite a few items while we were. Of the ones we tried, I'd recommend the fried polenta appetizer, zuppa toscana soup appetizer, cavatelli in a sausage red sauce, seafood risotto, and brown butter ice cream. The only dish I would not recommend is the orange pistachio creme brulee. The flavors did not mesh well and it was a bit disorienting to have so many whole pistachios baked into the dish.

Very romantic, candlelit atmosphere. Very decent selection of wine and drinks. I believe the menu changes with seasonal options. We had the shishito peppers for an appetizer which were pretty good. I got the pork osso buco which was phenomenal. Tender, fall of the bone, and melt in your mouth. Strongly recommend if you come here. Overall 10/10 dining