The Walnut

The Walnut — Des Moines

Tucked along one of downtown Des Moines' most storied streets, The Walnut brings a refreshing blend of history and modern culinary craft to the heart of the city. Housed in a beautifully converted 1920s garage at 1417 Walnut St, this tranquil Des Moines restaurant offers a dining atmosphere unlike anything else in the metro — where exposed industrial character meets warm, welcoming hospitality.

The Walnut's roots run deep in the local food scene. Born from The Spot, Des Moines' first modern food truck launched in 2013, the restaurant carries forward that same spirit of creative, approachable American cooking in a proper brick-and-mortar setting. The menu focuses on modern American eats crafted with care, complemented by a rotating selection of local craft brews that celebrate Iowa's thriving independent brewing community. Whether you're grabbing a casual weekday lunch or settling in for a relaxed weekend dinner, the food and drink program consistently delivers quality and character.

For downtown Des Moines diners looking for a reliable happy hour spot, The Walnut delivers with $1 off all beverages Tuesday through Friday from 3 to 5pm — making it a favorite among local professionals and neighborhood regulars alike. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11am to 10pm and Friday through Saturday from 11am to 11pm, with the kitchen closing at 9pm daily.

Conveniently located in downtown Des Moines with street parking readily available, The Walnut is an easy destination whether you're exploring the Walnut Street corridor, attending a nearby event, or simply craving a honest, satisfying meal in a space with genuine local soul. It's the kind of Des Moines dining experience worth returning to