Sharing is caring!
Published on February 28th, 2026
Dinner Experiences in Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines is filled with incredible restaurants, but now and then it’s fun to step outside the ordinary. Whether it’s a historic-themed dinner or an interactive murder mystery, there are plenty of unique dining experiences to explore. Check out our curated list of unforgettable dinner experiences around Des Moines.

The Dinner Detective
Address: Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown
101 E Locust Street, Des Moines, IA 50309
Put on your detective hat and try to crack the case at The Dinner Detective. Throughout the evening, a crime will occur, and hidden clues will be revealed. Actors will be hidden among the audience, and you get to help solve the mystery. You get to be part of the show while actors are hidden in the audience. Be aware that this is for those 15 years or older.
The Ingersoll
Address: 3711 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312
The Ingersoll was recently restored and reopened. It is Des Moines’ only dinner theater. Each ticket includes dinner, non alcoholic drinks, and the show. Get there two hours before the show to enjoy a delicious dinner. The menu rotates often, changing with the different performances. Performances range from musicals to comedians and everything in between. Check their calendar for all their events.

Living History Farms
Address: 11121 Hickman Rd, Urbandale, IA 50322
Living History Farms hosts historic dinners and teas throughout the year. You’ll get a chance to enjoy a meal at an authentic farmhouse kitchen from the 1900s or find out how a society family from the 1870s would have hosted their guests.
Moxie Kitchen & Events
Address: 4119 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311
Moxie Kitchen & Events offers a variety of dining experiences each month. Plan a night at Think & Drink, which is a trivia night paired with food from DSM Pasta Co, or be a kid and have a Breakfast-For-Dinner experience. Reserve your tickets here.
Pizza on the Prairie
Address: 2773 290th St, Orient, IA 50858
Take a drive to Orient for Pizza on the Prairie hosted by Wallace Farms. On Friday nights throughout the summer, pizzas are made from scratch and topped with fresh veggies and local meats. Beer, wine, and soft drinks are available. Live music is from 5:30 PM-8:00 PM. Bring a picnic and lawn games. Savor summer in Iowa.

Rose Farm
Address: 7197 43rd Ave, Norwalk, IA 50211
Rose Farm hosts farm-to-table dinners throughout spring, summer, and fall. Get a chance to meander around the homestead and indulge in a special dinner prepared by award-winning Chef Aaron Holt. Depending on the weather, enjoy the view in the Garden Pavilion or cozy up inside the Shoppe. Your dinner is bound to be a memory you’ll cherish. Get your ticket to a special night here.

Rube’s Steakhouse & Lounge
Address: 3309 Ute Ave, Waukee, IA 50263
Rube’s Steakhouse & Lounge is a grill-your-own dining experience. Start the night by selecting your own raw, aged Black Angus steak from the counter, season it, and cook it to your preference over a large, open-flame charcoal grill. All entrees include Rube’s Signature Sides: Supperclub wedge salad, baked or skillet potatoes, Rube’s secret recipe baked beans, and Texas toast.
Salisbury House & Gardens
Address: 4025 Tonawanda Dr, Des Moines, IA 50312
Salisbury House & Gardens hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Try a Murder Mystery Dinner, Tea at the Castle, or even the Salisbury Steak Dinner.
Jackie Fioritto
Hi, I’m Jackie. I am a teacher who recently became a stay-at-home mother of two. My husband and I moved to Des Moines from Green Bay, Wisconsin a few years ago. Originally, I am from Chicago, Illinois. My family has loved exploring Des Moines and all that it has to offer!




