
Skip's
A veteran Des Moines eatery serving elevated American cuisine and pasta in a classy, comfortable setting with a full bar.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

Skip's

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A veteran Des Moines eatery serving elevated American cuisine and pasta in a classy, comfortable setting with a full bar.
"This place is a must-try, delivering an exceptional dining experience from start to finish!"
Arrive during off-peak hours
To avoid crowds and potential wait times, consider visiting during less busy periods.
Don't miss the pork tenderloin
The breaded pork tenderloin sandwich is a well-regarded option for lunch or dinner.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
American
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Generous Appetizers and Entrees
Dive into heaping portions of appetizers like onion rings and flavorful entrees such as steak de burgo and blackened salmon.

Cozy & Classy Atmosphere
Enjoy a warm and inviting space, perfect for special occasions or a relaxed meal with friendly, attentive service.

Signature Pasta Dishes
Savor Italian influences with dishes like creamy carbonara and flavorful creole pasta, a beloved staple.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive during off-peak hours
To avoid crowds and potential wait times, consider visiting during less busy periods.
Don't miss the pork tenderloin
The breaded pork tenderloin sandwich is a well-regarded option for lunch or dinner.
Sip on handcrafted cocktails
Enjoy a variety of handcrafted cocktails and a global wine selection at the full-service bar.
Expect generous portions
The meals here are known for their large portion sizes, so be prepared for potential leftovers.
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive during off-peak hours
To avoid crowds and potential wait times, consider visiting during less busy periods.
Don't miss the pork tenderloin
The breaded pork tenderloin sandwich is a well-regarded option for lunch or dinner.
Sip on handcrafted cocktails
Enjoy a variety of handcrafted cocktails and a global wine selection at the full-service bar.
Expect generous portions
The meals here are known for their large portion sizes, so be prepared for potential leftovers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Skip's is a beloved Des Moines institution praised for its generous portions of classic American cuisine and comforting pasta dishes. Diners rave about the flavorful steaks, hearty appetizers like onion rings, and attentive service that creates a welcoming atmosphere. While some note the dimly lit ambiance, the overall experience is consistently positive, with many planning return visits.
"Amazing! We have come in on a Wednesday and Friday and received the same server both times. She was amazing tending to our every needs even offering to top up my soup. I had a cup of minestrone which I can't stop raving about. It was incredible. A great way to start a meal on a cold evening. I followed up with the Chinese Chicken Salad and my husband indulged in a filet which he thoroughly enjoyed. Each time, the restrooms have been clean and fully stocked. Parking is private in the front or right side but not behind - reserved for staff. On Friday, we had a 20 minute wait but sat and chatted with other locals. This is a must try."
Nicole Zurschmiede
"Just walking in the door, takes you to another world. The atmosphere is just wonderful. Our waitress was just exceptional! She added to the fun of two old friends reconnecting. The chicken marsala was more than I expected! I knew with the first bite that I had made the right choice. The flavor was out of this world, mouth watering, and hot with every bite. Don't forget to have the cod, there are no words to describe how delicious this was! Hoot & Holler'!"
Lisa Gerlach
"The dining room felt quite dark, which might be cozy in the winter months but came across a little dismal during my visit. Service was fine, nothing outstanding but also not problematic.
For the meal, the steak was prepared nicely but was pretty average overall — good, but nothing memorable. The salad and the Deburgo sauce were both highlights and really enjoyable. Unfortunately, the asparagus was overcooked and lacked the fresh texture I was hoping for.
Overall, it was an “okay” experience. Nothing went terribly wrong, but nothing really stood out either."
Lyl Rose
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Signature dishes include the ribeye steak, sirloin steak, Creole pasta, and generously portioned onion rings.
Yes, the restaurant is described as kid-friendly with a comfortable atmosphere suitable for family dinners.
The atmosphere is often described as classy and comfortable, with some finding it cozy, though others note it can be dimly lit.
Yes, Skip's features a full-service bar offering handcrafted cocktails, wines, and beers.
While not explicitly stated, arriving early or during off-peak hours is advised due to potential wait times.
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A long-standing Des Moines dining destination, Skip's is a veteran restaurant that serves New American cuisine and housemade pasta dishes in a classy, casual setting with a full-service bar. Priding themselves on using only the highest quality and freshest locally sourced ingredients and regional produce, the culinary team prepares and presents a seasonal menu of creative cuisine with dishes such as jalapeno shrimps, chicken quesadillas, prime filet, and mignon steaks, baby back ribs, and chicken piccata. A full-service bar offers a wide range of beverages, including globally-inspired wines, craft brews, and beers on tap, and handcrafted cocktails such as pear mint and snickertini martinis.
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Serving american classics in a comfortable fructify, Skip ’ mho has been a familiar front-runner on the confederacy side for special occasions, vacation meals and its reliable menu of seafood, chicken dishes, pastas and steak de burgo. It besides offers a well-regarded bread pork tenderloin sandwich for lunch and dinner, topped with lettuce, tomato, onion and pickle and resting on a toasted Kaiser roll. Location: 4000 Fleur Drive, Des Moines Hours: 11 a.m.-10 post meridiem Tuesday-Saturday, contact : ( 515 ) 287-1820 ; skipsdesmoines.com ; facebook.com/SKIPS.DSM/
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Treat your taste buds to a memorable culinary experience at Skip's, a renowned restaurant that offers a delectable menu of elevated dishes prepared with passion and creativity. Settle into the warm and inviting ambiance of the dining room as you peruse the menu, which features a variety of mouthwatering options. From expertly grilled steaks to fresh seafood and innovative vegetarian creations, Skip's caters to every palate with its diverse and flavorful offerings.
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Serving American classics in a comfortable setting, Skip’s has been a familiar favorite on the south side for special occasions, holiday meals and its dependable menu of seafood, chicken dishes, pastas and steak de burgo. It also offers a well-regarded breaded pork tenderloin sandwich for lunch and dinner, topped with lettuce, tomato, onion and pickle and resting on a toasted Kaiser roll. Location: 4000 Fleur Drive, Des Moines
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While by no means one of the oldest restaurants in Des Moines, Skip’s has become a Des Moines institution. The restaurant that opened in 1981 serves American classics for lunch and dinner such as baby back ribs, pork shanks, steaks, walleye and cod. But don't overlook Italian influences like crispy calamari with red chili aioli, steak de Burgo and chicken piccata.
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Another hidden gem (in my opinion) Skip’s is located on the Southside of Des Moines. The restaurant has been around since 1981 and has a menu of American-style foods including appetizers, soups, salads, pasta, steak, and seafood. The location is quaint and I just love the authenticity you get from this local, small business.
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Skips is one to consider if you are searching for a great Southside Des Moines restaurant. This small family-owned establishment serves traditional American-style food. The cozy restaurant and friendly service make this eatery a perfect pick for a date night or family dinner.
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Expect classic American fare, with a few curveballs to keep you on your toes (Jambalaya or Rarebit, anyone?). From glazed pork shanks and pecan crusted chicken strips to coconut crusted tilapia, there’s an interesting twist for every appetite at this South Side stalwart.
Highest-rated Restaurants in Des Moines, According to Tripadvisor
- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (405 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.5/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5)- Type of cuisine: American- Price: $$ - $$$- Address: 4000 Fleur Dr, Des Moines, IA 50321-2322- Read more on Tripadvisor
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4000 Fleur DrDes Moines, IA 50321(515) 287-1820 Visit Website See Menu Open in Google Maps. Skip’s is an American dining establishment and local institution dating back to 1981.
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Established in 1981, Skip’s is an American style restaurant with a wide variety of menu options ranging from appetizers, soups or salads to pasta, steak and seafood.
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4000 Fleur Dr, Des Moines, IA 50321Phone: 515-287-1820 Visit Website. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by William J. Jacobsen (@sirwillyumm)
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A dark and romantic setting on the inside with great steaks, Italian pastas and seafood. A good place out for a date or a more upscale evening.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit