
$$
Japanese
Modern, clubby restaurant featuring sushi & Japanese tapas, plus fancy mixed drinks.
316 Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
More nearby: East Village restaurants and things to do, Restaurants in East Village
Listing last updated October 11, 2026
We don't have hours for this place yet. Call ahead before you go.
Events starting later today within 1.5 miles, straight-line distance.
on Google
Written May 10, 2026
Masao | Japanese Restaurant in Des Moines, IA
Tucked along East Grand Avenue in the heart of Des Moines, Masao is quickly earning its reputation as one of the city's most exciting Japanese dining destinations. Located at 512 E Grand Ave, this intimate restaurant brings an elevated Japanese culinary experience to Des Moines that feels both refined and genuinely welcoming. Whether you're planning a special night out or simply craving expertly crafted Japanese cuisine, Masao delivers the kind of thoughtful, detail-oriented dining that keeps locals coming back.
Since opening its doors, Masao has built a devoted following among Des Moines food lovers who appreciate authentic Japanese flavors executed with care and creativity. The dinner-focused hours — open evenings from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM — set the tone for an unhurried, immersive dining experience that pairs beautifully with the restaurant's warm, intimate atmosphere. It's the kind of place where every visit feels like a special occasion, whether you're celebrating a milestone or simply treating yourself to something exceptional.
Situated in a convenient and accessible part of Des Moines with easy access from downtown and surrounding neighborhoods, Masao is a natural choice for date nights, group dinners, and corporate outings alike. The restaurant also offers gift cards, making it a perfect option for gifting a memorable Des Moines dining experience. Reservations are available and strongly encouraged, reflecting just how in-demand this gem has become in the local restaurant scene.
For anyone exploring the best Japanese restaurants in Des Moines, Masao stands out as a must-visit — a neighborhood treasure that has already made a lasting mark on Iowa's culinary landscape in just its first year. Call 515-207-1570 or reserve your table online today.
Masao is an American restaurant located at 512 E Grand Ave in downtown Des Moines, Iowa. Offering moderately priced American cuisine, Masao serves the Des Moines community with quality dining in the heart of the city's vibrant East Village neighborhood.
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Sign in to reviewAnswered from the details on this page for Masao in Des Moines, Iowa.
Masao is listed as a Japanese restaurant in Des Moines, Iowa.
Google lists Masao at $$ on its one-to-four-dollar-sign scale.
Masao is at 512 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA. The map on this page shows the spot.
(515) 207-1570.
Yes. The Menu section on this page has the menu we captured from their site, with the date we captured it. Their own menu is at https://drive.google.com/uc?export_download&id=1trXd704w-RUihV9FT-MINRtBAr1J--GP.
Google rating 4.8 of 5.
Japanese places first, then the rest, closest first. Straight-line distance.

$$
Japanese
Modern, clubby restaurant featuring sushi & Japanese tapas, plus fancy mixed drinks.
316 Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA

$$Des Moines
Japanese
Modern, clubby restaurant featuring sushi & Japanese tapas, plus fancy mixed drinks.
316 Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
$
Bar & Grill
Neighborhood watering hole & eatery serving traditional American eats in a low-key setup.
506 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA

$$$Des Moines
American
Colorful, upscale American restaurant & wine bar with reclaimed doors hanging from the ceiling.
524 E 6th St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA