Drake Diner

Drake Diner: Des Moines' Beloved Retro Comfort Food Institution

If you're searching for the best breakfast in Des Moines or craving hearty American comfort food any time of day, Drake Diner has been the answer since 1987. Nestled at 1111 25th Street, just south of Drake University in the heart of Des Moines, this family-owned retro diner has earned its status as a true local landmark — and one bite explains exactly why.

What sets Drake Diner apart from other Des Moines restaurants is its unapologetic commitment to the classics. Think upscale midcentury diner vibes paired with homemade comfort food that actually tastes like someone's kitchen, not a corporate kitchen. The crown jewel? Breakfast is served all day, every day — making it the go-to Des Moines spot whether you're chasing eggs Benedict at noon or pancakes after dark on a Friday night. Beer and wine are also available, giving this neighborhood diner a little extra personality that keeps locals coming back.

The atmosphere leans into its retro roots with genuine warmth. The staff is famously friendly, and first-timers rarely leave feeling like strangers. It's the kind of Des Moines dining experience that feels like a community gathering place rather than just a meal stop — especially given its prime location near Drake University, making it popular with students, faculty, and neighborhood regulars alike.

Conveniently located with accessible street-level entry and easy parking along 25th Street, Drake Diner is open seven days a week, with extended evening hours Thursday through Saturday until 10 p.m. Whether you're a longtime Des Moines local or just passing through Iowa's capital city, Drake Diner delivers exactly what great American dining should — honest food, real