Hello, Marjorie

I had heard about this bar but never been. We left Winefest's Sips in the City event in search of air conditioning on June 14, 2025 and this place did not disappoint. My friend got the Betty Blanco because she likes tequila and said it was great. Our server Kelsey was amazing. We had a great experience. It is a pretty dark bar, so bring your readers and get your phone flashlight ready.

We are from out of town and it was a Sunday evening that we were looking for a cocktail and were seeking out the "speakeasies" we've heard about. We found this place and it is everything we were hoping to find! Discreet entrance...eclectic atmosphere, great service from Madison (who also could answer all our questions about the decor and history) as well as delivering the best dirty martini I've had in a LONG time! Makes me wish I lived here :-)

Hands down one of the best cocktail bars Des Moines has to offer! Not only are the drinks absolutely incredible and their menu is always well curated and diverse to cater to everyone’s taste, but the atmosphere, music, and staff are just as divine as the drinks! Always treated like family when I go in with my friends. I feel welcome whether I’m dressed to the nines or in leggings and a Tshirt. It feels fancy and upscale without the pretentiousness that some high-end cocktail bars might have. Fair prices too!! And the speakeasy in the back is a MUST visit! 10/10 no notes. 🥂

We coordinated a company mixer here with many of the employees flying in from all over the US. After researching so many venues in Des Moines I fell in love with this venue. It was a bonus that it is so close to the downtown Marriott because we didn't have to worry about transportation from the hotel. We wanted the vibe of laid back and comfortable event for people to engage, but with a theme. Hello, Marjorie was exactly what we needed for the vibe and exactly what I expected from the photos. No catfish here! Nick worked with our caterers before I arrived and we rearranged a few things to create a family-style buffet and appetizer bar. Although this place would work well with just the music they play, we wanted something special. We brought in Rock It Man Entertainment for a solo piano show and it was such a phenomenal time. Jon is the owner of Rock It Man and he drove in himself to ensure we had the crowd engagement I was going for. The signature cocktails and friendly staff really elevated the night. The manager (so sorry I forgot the name) even let me borrow the polaroid camera if we bought film. It was such a nice touch for our Mad Men Era Theme. The lighting was perfect and the story behind this place all made this venue exactly what was needed to bring a group together from all over for a good time, in Iowa! This was my first time in Iowa and leaving sunny San Diego to a "heat wave" of 37 degrees was a daunting feeling but I can say I WISH we had a Hello, Marjorie in San Diego! Although this is an experience of a private event, I can say this place is truly special a cherished local spot.

We stumbled on this little place while staying at the Marriott downtown. It was a Monday night and our server Desi was a great addition to our little trip. The drinks were exceptional and the atmosphere made you feel warm and fuzzy.

By far, the most creative and cozy cocktail bar in Des Moines! Hello, Marjorie has the best vibe with incredible attention to detail—from the moody lighting to the décor. The cocktails are consistently delicious and unique, and the entire atmosphere is perfect for a night out with friends. This is a must-stop for anyone looking for great drinks and even better memories. Highly recommend for those searching for an elevated and welcoming Des Moines cocktail bar.

Used to be my go-to spot for nice cocktails in Des Moines, but my last visit left something to be desired. The drinks look nice but the Prosecco on tap was gross tasting that night and my partner got a hugo spritz and it was basically purely elderflower liqueur. It was so gross, he couldn’t even drink it. We were never checked on after this and had to flag someone down for the check. Anyway, I probably won’t visit again when I’m back in town.

Our group of 4 had a splendid time at Hello Marjorie. We just had a couple cocktails later on a Saturday night. Two people had non alcoholic beverages that they said were quite tasty. I had the old fashioned which was very good and I don’t remember what my other friend got. Service was fantastic. My wife had to ask if the virgin margarita was actually virgin because it tasted so real and they brought out the bottle to show her. Really cool spot downtown Des Moines for a drink!

The drinks here never disappoint. This was our second visit and while we were unable to make it to their "hidden" back bar this time as we arrived just after their last call, Hello Marjorie was still serving and the host was super friendly. We decided to stay and had no regrets. Bartenders were using some unique ingredients in many of their cocktails. The ones were tried were great. We would come here again and possibly with friends as the space is big enough to host larger parties.

Beautiful space, attentive and expert bartender, appropriate and interesting playlist, curated and interesting drink menu - YAY!! It's telling when the other bartenders in town all agree that they love the same place - and this is that place in Des Moines. The craft cocktails are exquisitely made and the menu is organized for success, grouping drinks by their primary liquor.

First time in Des Moines. City was very sleepy but we happily found Hello Marjorie and the back room bar. Both were amazing. Great ambience, music and cocktails. old fashioned was so good !! We met the owner who was so nice and clearly has a great vision.

Good service. A little loud in the bar and speakeasy. Comfortable seating, cozy lighting. Drink menu feels limited and there doesn't seem like a lot of options for each liquor.

All the pretty girls are def from Des Moines. We had a fantastic time grabbing a quick cocktail at Hello Marjorie. This was a recommendation from a local and it did not disappoint. Our server, a lovely young lady, guided us through the menu for our drinks and answered all questions. The cocktails were delicious && the cookie divine. The atmosphere was cozy and mid century with its own unique touch. We did arrive early so not a lot of people there, but it was still wonderful. A def MUST TRY and something we will talk about and recommend to all.

Cute drinks! Located secretly in the building it seems. Kinda feels like you need to know a friend of a friend to get here. Nicely decorated for the seasons and definitely has a cozy feel. Came here with friends for a drink and some convos. Service was excellent and was very helpful right when we walked in. Seats are nicely spaced from others but it can feel tight when with a party of 5-7.

I came here mainly on the strength of the pics I saw online. It held up to expectations. Lots of thematic vibes, music quiet enough to allow for chatting, romantic lighting. Just a nice little cocktail bar. Staff was super attentive. There's a ton of fun stuff to look at, with a heavy emphasis on mid-century and up furniture pieces, living room/dining room vignettes, and the like. The hanging lamps are also cool.

This speakeasy bar is easy to find in downtown Des Moines. As soon as you enter the building, you'll see the mirror doors and walls. Then the logo. Once you enter, it's a totally pink vibe. Velour couches and chairs and green wallpaper. We just ordered couple of cocktails and a shot of cognac, I didn't see a food menu. The server seated us near the bar and promptly brought us our drinks. The bar wasn't busy, so it was nice to have the bar area to ourselves.

Hello, Marjorie! Seriously. Hi there. Hey, what's happenin? Howdy! It's a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance. I was in town for a concert and decided to make a visit to this DSM gotta-see, have-to-try... just go now. (It's five o clock somewhere.) I'd keep an eye out on their hours via social media-- they have private shindigs often and on holidays, or just after, seemed to be closed often. The vibes of this place are retro rad. It's like I walked into my great grandmas house-- but with pizazz. We popped in on a Friday and it was comfortably full. There's a seasonal cocktail menu and it boasts about 24 craft cocktails to choose from (as well as a handful of beer, couple wine options and a handful of NA options). Pricing seems on par with $12-14 cocktails. I believe Happy Hour is daily-- 4-6pm and features deals on a beer, Old Fashioned and Martini. I got The Marjorie-- I couldn't not get the namesake's drink! It was delightful. The pear and the lemon with the elderberry really did it for me. My partner got the Old Fashioned and boy it was good. The aromatics were fabulous. Overall, I'll be back! The only reason this was a 4/5 is the service was really, really inattentive and slow. For a Friday night you can expect a wait-- but every table near me was noticeably upset. (Even a few going to the bartender to order and being turned away since they had a waitress.) We even just left cash to pay for our drinks at our table since it took so long to get the bill. Come for the drinks, stay for the atmosphere. Hello, Marjorie is worth your time!

Our group of 4 had a splendid time at Hello Marjorie. We just had a couple cocktails later on a Saturday night. Two people had non alcoholic beverages that they said were quite tasty. I had the old fashioned which was very good and I don't remember what my other friend got. Service was fantastic. My wife had to ask if the virgin margarita was actually virgin because it tasted so real and they brought out the bottle to show her. Really cool spot downtown Des Moines for a drink!

We have been wanting to try this place forever and finally made it. From the outside, you are not sure what to expect. As soon as you walk in the door, you are taken back to the 70s. I did find it interesting that they have a sign that says wait to be seated. We were seated right away. I chose the grasshopper. It was a great after dinner drink. Even had a mint sprig clipped to the side.

This was a nice, chill retro bar in the downtown area of Des Moines. The service was awesome. Our waitress was quite attentive. They have a large assortment of craft cocktails. I chose to stick with my regular staples, either an old fashioned or their penicillin. I loved the neon signs which I've attached to this review.

I came for the cocktail (Happy hour) it's a must . I had the old fashion and the price was perfect and delicious drink . Love the decor and the ambiance . Will come again . Love the happy hour price and drinks . Bartender was nice and service was great .

Such a cute bar. The vibe was on point!!! Drinks were delicious and the waitress was so personable and friendly. If I ever come back to this area I'll definitely come back!! Also do yourself a favor and get one of the cookies stuffed with a brownie!!! Omg soooo yummy!!

Cutest bar in Des Moines and with super yummy drinks! It's so fun to go and drink and chat here and look at all the cute decor. The first time I went was with my mom, named Marjorie, and because her name was Marjorie they gave her a free "The prettiest girls in the world live in Des Moines" tote bag. Truly a great place!

We had a work happy hour here and what a cute speakeasy-type place this is. I would frequent if I lived in town. The cocktails were delicious and the seating cozy. Our server did a fine job.

Love Des she knows the menu inside and out and makes very good recommendations so next time you're in here, please ask Des.

Super cute bar downtown with great service, drinks, seating, decor and vibes. This was the second stop we made that night and I preferred the drinks and ambience here much more. Sat at the bar and tried both a tequila and mezcal drink. Presentation is so thoughtful. They don't just mix and pour over ice but they really craft up these drinks. Our bartender Travis was great. It was really busy in there, but we had questions about the drinks and he took the time to answer them. Fun place for a date night, girls night, friend meet up etc etc. Note: They don't have any type of food here so eat before.

Unexpected but in all the best ways... This 5 star review is for 3 things 1. The vibes are unmatched for anywhere else I could find in downtown Des Moines. 2. The drinks were perfection, they were unique and well made. 3. Travis. Our bartender was delightful! The bar has this cool aura, it feels like a little know secret. It's very low lit and moody, there is even a speakeasy that I didn't get a chance to check out. I was really worn out, so I darted for the bar and ordered the drink with tequila in it. Travis was leading the charge behind the bar, he was open to answering all my questions I had about Des Monies and where to go, which drink was the best etc. I ordered the Betty Blanco, and it was incredible! I didn't want to drink it at first, just stare at how artful it was. The attention to detail, the pink peppercorn on top...the perfectly cut lime on the side. Pro Tip: Experiment a little, I even tried the "Dinner Party" with Mascarpone cream cheese, and it was....awful lol. But very unique and you may love it. One things for sure Travis is going to make the experience memorable.

If you are looking for a place to sit, unwind and enjoy the positive vibes, this is the spot! Great drinks and fabulous service, thanks to Desi! She is so patient, very knowledgeable and incredibly friendly! I'll definitely be coming back!

Always our first stop in DSM! We usually stay at the Marriott right out of back it, so it's a easy walk! Super cute aesthetic, everything's always very clean. Nice place to hangout and have amazing drinks. Everyone is always very nice, service is quick, and the bartenders always are non stop, they out so much work into the drinks!

The drinks are fantastic! I got the bubble plum which was delicious! My friend got the Marjorie which was also very good. The staff were kind, friendly & quick. The decor is so fun, unique and homey. Definitely a fun place to check out for a quick drink or a night with friends!

Desi was a phenomenal waitress who was so kind and personable. Oaktavio made amazing drinks. Such a cool vibe and atmosphere. Highly recommended this hidden gem!

We had heard plenty of good things about HM and it lived up to the hype. Amazing drinks. Very fun vibe retro vibe. Knowable fun waitress.

I was excited to check this place out when I came back to town--my friends recommended it as a cute place to grab a unique cocktail downtown, which sounded like a great addition to the Des Moines scene. We went for happy hour, but I was a bit disappointed that the happy hour wasn't very extensive. Some deals on beer and a few select classic drinks, but not on the specialty cocktails. We opted for the full priced cocktails. The atmosphere and decor is super cute and cozy! The seating options were more for groups of 4-8, so with just 2-3 of us, we weren't sure where to sit. Good for groups! The prices are rather steep at $9-$13 a cocktail, but that's the price we pay for unique crafted cocktails. I wasn't in love with The Break Room cocktail, but enjoyed the Marjorie much more. I wish they had a bit more of a snack menu than just snack mix, but we made it work and found somewhere else to go for dinner. This is a cute and trendy spot in DSM to meet friends for a cocktail!

We absolutely love Hello, Marjorie! Been a few times now and the service is always super fast and friendly. Cocktails are super unique and fun. Flavors definitely meld well. The vibes are super cute too! Low pink/purple lighting with a variety of seating.

2nd time coming here with my husband. I love this place. It is a classy ( not pretentious) bar with a bit of a retro vibe. This time I had a hot toddy and it was cute, festive and delicious! The place was decorated for Christmas. The only food they have are cookies and I highly recommend them. So good! Service was helpful when I had questions. No complaints at all.

This place is a perfect for a date night. Very clean. The lighting is low but not terribly dark. The aesthetic is fun and very comfortable and well done. The staff was very friendly and easy to work with. It was a fairly slow weekday evening but she kept attentive to us always making sure we were taken care of. The cocktails were superb. I had 2 cocktails that implemented Laphroaig scotch. This is one of my top favorite scotches due to the intense peat and smokiness. I've never seen it used in a cocktail and here, I found it twice. Both cocktails were uniquely delicious, well mixed and generously poured. My wife is pregnant but had a few options for fun non-alcoholic drinks that she really enjoyed for a low cost. Overall, awesome place that we will return to!

Some of the best drinks in town! Friendly service and a variety of all kinds of drinks. I had the Garden Party which is a spirit-free drink. It was herby and mellow and oh so delicious. I also had their 717 punch which is also spirit-free, it tasted like a smooth rosemary punch. I was so happy they have mocktails. Makes it very welcoming for everyone. Will be back very soon!

The Marjorie drink is what's up! Love the vibe and lighting here. Great date night drinks for before or after dinner. For double the fun, make a reservation at Good News Darling.

My first time in Des Moines and trying this cocktail bar was a great choice. Cozy atmosphere set up like a 70's home. My hunny and I sat in the living room on the sofa. I had the Marjorie for my drink which was tasty light and fruity which is what I like. My guy has a whiskey sour and couldn't go wrong. Desi was the waitress that night, she was phenomenal! Her personality was perfect for the atmosphere, very helpful and attentive.Despite being super busy she gave us the background on the bar which was so kind of her. I definitely would go back without a doubt!

Hello, Marjorie absolutely knows how to create and craft stellar cocktails. We got some great local recommendations on places to eat and other spots to check out from one of the bartenders which we really appreciated. Fun spot with eclectic decor and even better drinks.

Great drinks with even better service and staff. We ordered the classic Daydream and a new favorite The Pistachio both incredible cocktails. Will be back for more soon!

We had a great time here in this cool spot in downtown Des Moines. The bar itself has a cool retro vibe with chic decor once you can find your way in. The entrance is understated and through a fully mirrored blackened door. There is adequate seating arrangements, bar seating , high tops and some lounge space. The furnishings are comfortable and aesthetically pleasing for a nod to a by gone era. The menu has plenty of craft cocktails and unique drinks. We had the Marjorie that was more fruity notes which was garnished beautifully. We also opted for a Marjorie Old Fashioned which was very booze forward and delicious. We also tried the boardwalk which was also good on the sweeter side. We started round two mixing it up with LaBamba and the daydream. The daydream has a very nice tea floral essence which was very good. All in all for 5 drinks it was 56.00 plus gratuity . A great east location to meet pre dinner. The vibe is right , price point great for the craft of cocktail making. These bartenders are carefully creating cocktail not just mixing drinks.

Very pleasant atmosphere. Excellent staff. Proper cocktails. I will be coming back fasho :)

Awesome bar! Not what you expect! Relaxing environment and calm music! Great drink menu too!

What a neat place! The atmosphere is super retro, the cocktails are innovative, and service is fantastic. Will definitely make this a regular spot.

My favorite bar in Des Moines! Great cocktails, great service, great vibes. I would bring a date here, old friend, or a small group. I do recommend looking at the menu online first because somewhat limited and so you know the prices ahead of time. Also a heads up, it is dark in the bar. Super cute place though and I think everyone needs to try it.

Highly recommend - can tell Desi on their events team throws one hell of a party in that awesome space, so book em for events too. Had a great time on a Monday night, and after a quick chat about what I liked in a cocktail Sage mixed her own twist on a classic that might be my new go-to at cocktail bars. Check it out, they will also have recs for the neighborhood.

Hello Marjorie is a fantastic place to enjoy a flawlessly made, seasonally curated cocktail tucked away right on Locust Street! Walking in, the vibe at Hello Marjorie made you feel right at ease and ready to relax with friends. The waitress brought us a "Libations" menu that consisted of their seasonal cocktails as well as a menu with their other beers, liquors and wines. I would absolutely recommend getting a "Libation." They are masterfully crafted and so fun! I had the Marjorie and it was absolutely delicious. The details were not unnoticed, from the bartenders crushing ice by hand to the beautiful garnishes, it was all intricately crafted. My friend had the Daydream, which was also delicious, I was able to taste it, and her boyfriend had the shadow-boxer. BEWARE THE SHADOWBOXER. It was probably the strongest drink any of us had ever encountered. Very interesting, but had a punch!!! If you're looking for something sweet and easy to sip, grab a Marjorie. It's named after the bar, after all. All in all, I adored Hello Marjorie and have been back since! Plan to go back this week as well! Cozy up in an arm chair, let the Iowa winter disappear for a while and enjoy a drink at Hello Marjorie.

Very cool downtown bar serving some speciality drinks and cocktails. Just met friends for a few drinks on a Saturday night around 5:30, very busy, but found a seat fairly quick. Prices are about what you would expect downtown but service was good and vibe is laid back and fun. Cants speak about food since we just had drinks but service was good and can't wait to go back.

Prosecco is FLAT. Made no attempt to make it right or even apologize. First and last time here :)

You don't come here expecting a jack and coke, this place surprised me in terms of professionalism and top tier cocktails. Having had cocktails all around the states, this place is definitely a top 5 cocktail bar! Unique flavorful cocktails, great conversation with the bartenders and beautifully simple bar setting.

Love love this place. What a hidden gem. Will be back when in Des Moines again. Waitress was extremely helpful.

I was back visiting my home state when a friend suggested we meet up here at Hello, Marjorie. The decor was such a flash back to the 70s or 80s which brought back childhood memories. You know those bucket swivels chairs you might have had at your kitchen table. They have them. I was waiting for someone to break out the bell bottom jeans. Come to think of it, I do believe the staff wore period clothing. Besides the great atmosphere, the drinks were even more spectacular. I had the Marjorie which was sweet but not too sweet topped off with a sprig of thyme. The staff was accommodating with explaining the drinks and their differences. I felt this place was a bit hidden but rest assure, you won't be disappointed.

Great drinks, fun hang out, neat decor. A bit like a speak-easy as all you see is a sign, not windows you can look through. Go through the revolving doors into an office building like hallway and you will see some doors on the right with a logo. Cool mixology in addition to good beer and wine. Quiet enough for good conversation, but not overly cozy. Great service. Highly recommend for a night-cap or just to hang out and chat over drinks if you are in downtown Des Moines.

Great atmosphere and good drinks! Service was fast and reliable! Super clean inside and very friendly staff

Hello Marjorie provided the perfect setting for our evening out with old friends. We were kindly greeted as soon as we walked in and then provided awesome service by our server, Desi. I don't think I've ever had a more beautiful mezcal drink handed to me in my life! Can't wait to come back!

HELLO, MARJORIE; you're pretty! My husband and I came to town for my friend's birthday. He suggested Hello, Marjorie for a few cocktails to start the celebration out. We arrived around 11:00PM on Friday, and the place was packed! People love Hello, Marjorie because it sparkles and shines. From the street view, a neon sign reads: Hello Marjorie. The entrance reminds me of a strip mall entrance. Double glass doors. We didn't know if we were in the right place until we opened the doors. As we scanned the room, all the tables, couches, and bar seats were spoken for. Luckily, a group was just leaving as we stood there for a few minutes. The couch was comfortable and left room for five people, easily. The atmosphere is for hipsters and instagramers. We were wearing jeans and tshirts, and were the least dressed up. Not to worry, if you do wear jeans; this place is chill! I ordered the Marjorie (slow gin, Absolut Pear, raspberry, lemon, bitters). The drink was semi sweet with a smooth raspberry taste. The bitters evened out the taste. I ordered two. I love the presentation of the cocktails here. Hello, Marjorie is LOUNGY and polished. Stick with the cocktails for a boozy evening. Perfect for dates or birthday celebrations!