Let me start off with overall a great experience and could have easily been 5 stars. Bartenders were courteous and spot on. Server was helpful in aiding our selections we split everything to try more. We started with the Calamari then the large apple harvest salad (both were delicious!) and finished with the 4 pork gnocchi which was also good. We decided against dessert and once that decision was made we were brought our checks. The server stopped by to pick them up but we hadn't put payment in she then informed us that she had been cut and would be back to pick up the checks. Which was done quickly after putting our cards in. The ran them we signed them and she picked them up without thanking us or stating should we need anything so and so could help us. Out the door she went. Funny thing is the friend that I was with used to be restaurant managers together.
(4)
Michelle R.
This place is a true delight; from the adult beverage selection to the food! It's fantastic! The menu is delightful, seasonal, and delicious. The prices are reasonable for the fantastic quality of the food that 8 served. The server was knowledgeable, courteous, and more than willing to give excellent suggestions. I will most definitely look forward to returning here for their four course dinner in the hopefully not too distant future!
(5)
Diane B.
I really enjoy Louies for dinner. Interesting menu options- something for everyone! The waitstaff I'd very knowledgable about wines and wine/ food pairings. Sean has never steered us wrong in his recommendations of wine or daily specials. It's a neighborhood place with " downtown" class!! I REALLY recommend the Lobster Poutine- it's Heaven!!
(4)
Christine T.
My husband and I had our first visit to Louie's this week, and it won't be our last. We stopped in for a late breakfast on a Saturday and found friendly, efficient wait staff and a great menu. Both of us ordered off the breakfast menu (it was 10 am) and our dishes were inventive and delicious. My husband asked to look at the dinner menu for fun and when he found an appetizer that sounded good (red pepper humus) he was able to order it as well! The menu is eclectic, American food with a nod to NOLA - oysters, shrimp and grits and croque madame. And where else in Des Moines can you get Lobster poutine? I can't wait to try it. It is a rare occurrence when I find a menu and I want to try almost everything on it, but I am going to try. I have read comments about the decor. Frankly, I don't get it. The seating is comfortable and the wall color warmed the room. It is certainly preferable to the modern concrete floor, metal table, operating room ambiance some of the newer restaurants. Try Louie's, we want to keep a quality restaurant here in our neighborhood, just don't tell all your friends, I want to be able to get a table too.
(5)
Kristin S.
My boyfriend and I decided to try this for the first time before attending a lecture at Drake U. The staff was super friendly (and even seemed to be having fun while working) and the setting was comfortable and lovely at the same time. Our food arrived quickly - a salad and a burger - both fantastic. We informed our server that we needed to leave quickly, so he was prompt with the check. We will totally be going back.
(5)
Jennifer W.
I'm a big fan. The place is just right down the street from me, which is awesome. We've needed a new local in the Beav for awhile. It is usually really busy, so you definitely want to call ahead for a reservation or to put your name in. My husband and I usually just sit at the bar when it's packed. You have a fun, talkative, crowd but can get some privacy too. The food has yet to disappoint. We've been for breakfast, lunch, appetizers and dinner. I haven't had anything I didn't like. Some of my favs have been: the flatbread, the lobster poutin, lobster mac and cheese (duh!), the cuban sandwich, and oddly the salmon caesar salad. Also, the cocktails are pretty good- mostly classic cocktails which I appreciate, some with minor variations. Obviously they have a good wine list. Lastly, the service has been really awesome every time we've been. I haven't seen that kind of consistency in awhile. Overall, I definitely recommend this place. It's casual, there is range of prices on food, the drinks are flowing and the food/service is great.
(5)
Lisa W.
I've eaten at Louie's three times and overall each experience has been great. I've had a seafood dish every time, crab cakes, scallops, lobster salad sandwhich, and they've all been very good. I enjoy the location as a neighborhood restaurant and the decor and atmosphere. Most times the service has been fast and efficient, although the time we were there for brunch my friend waited quite a long time for refills on her bottomless Mimosa. They also have a very good selection of craft beers and local craft beers. The prices are reasonable. I highly recommend Louie's to my friends and family.
(4)
Steven S.
Great food and fairly priced. Was not to sure about the place when I walked in. My perception changed very quickly. The service was wonderful and the wine and food fantastic
(5)
Tom C.
Twenty years ago this was the location of my childhood comic book store. I moved away and the retail winds shifted, and the location apparently went through a few incarnations. On a recent nostalgia tour I found myself standing outside like a dog outside its dead owner's bedroom, waiting for him to emerge and looking uncertainly at the nearest human, not understanding that what it once loved is dead and gone forever. I decided to go in to see if there was any nostalgia to be had in the walls and fixtures, and as I entered I was stunned to see a thriving classy and hip restaurant and bar. From the outside it looked like a liquor store. On the inside it looked nothing like a comic book store or liquor store. The atmosphere was really very hip and fun, and the service (I are at the bar, which used to be a wall separating the comic racks from the RPGs and war game collectibles) was really fantastic. Friendly and fun. I was given a wooden bottle puzzle to play with and enjoyed talking to the staff. My only complaint is that none of them seemed at all interested in the location's past as a neighborhood comic book shop. Any genuine follow-up at all would've automatically earned a massive tip. As for the food, I ordered the salmon salad. The salad was fine, but the salmon was overcooked and mostly inedible. There also wasn't enough goat cheese. 4 stars for a great atmosphere and that particular feeling of bittersweet longing only an aged comic book/RPG fan raised in the 80s could understand.
(4)
Andy S.
My girlfriend ate here a few months ago. The place looked nice, the food was good, and the server was very friendly. Price was about what you would expect. I forget what we ordered, but one of the dishes came with this rectangular potato thing which was made up of very thin potato slices, and was absolutely awesome. My g/f and I have been thinking of coming back and just ordering wine and multiple rectangular potato thing sides.
(4)
Mary H.
Walking in I felt a bit self-conscious in my scrubs; the atmosphere seems to call for fancier attire (most of the other guests were all doodled up for midweek lunch? Perhaps they don't have jobs/school.) After the initial awkward feeling everything was great. Our server, Josh/John (I really need to work on remembering names) made the meal even more enjoyable. Him being in a tshirt made me feel more comfortable. Great sense of humor and left us alone as appropriate. Pesto chicken flatbread came out and I thought, "I won't be able to eat all that," but it was so darn good I finished it. No regrets! My friend had the margarita flatbread and confessed the same sentiments at the end. I don't know how lavosh is supposed to be, so I can't really judge it; this serves as the base for the flatbread and is light/crispy so you don't feel all weighed down (or guilty) ... Why I decided to take a pregnant lady to a place with "wine" in the name-- I'm not sure. But I will most definitely be returning for a happy hour where aforementioned flatbreads are $5. Can't wait to try to the wine.
(4)
Koby A.
Amazing brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. Had the crab cake benedict and my husband had the burger. Both were fantastic. Also tried the various unique mimosas from their bottomless offerings. My fave was the one with grapefruit juice.
(5)
Thomas S.
Amazing food. Fantastic experience. Reccomended -- Gooey Louie. Mussels. The app with shrimp and French fries. Loved it.
(5)
Kelly S.
I love the premise of this restaurant and so badly wanted it to be a go-to spot. Unfortunately, both the food and service has been hit or miss. On my first visit, a fellow diner ordered chicken - that came out visibly raw in the middle. The kitchen threw the same piece of chicken back on the grill and then sent it out (after everyone else at the table had finished their meal) overcooked. Management seemed annoyed when they had to deal with the situaion and offered the table a free dessert. On my second visit, I sat at the bar with a friend and had a salad (afraid to order food) and drinks. No problems, but nothing fantastic either. The bartender did seem knowledgeable about the wine selection. On my last and FINAL visit, I stopped in for a bit of chocolate and a glass of red wine. My partner was having dinner. BOTH The chocolate dessert and the wine I ordered were out. I was offered a different wine which I was pleased with and ordered a salted caramel dessert. The dessert was terrible and so salty I couldn't eat it. My dinner date was also disappointed with her meal. Overall, for the money you spend and the prices they charge, I believe the food is subpar. It's too bad really because, as I said before, I really wanted the place to be a smash. I hear the brunch is good. If I was to visit again it would be for brunch, but I really don't see that happening.
I don't drink but my partner in crime does love fancy wine so this a logical place to go. It's not a dive to start off, I'm sure you might get many visuals in your head hearing the word dive. But it's nice inside, I promise. They have a very nice menu, many unique dishes that you can pair a good glass of wine up with and with almost everything under $20 too. I had the pan roasted Chicken, it was a good dish. But they have so much more to try! This is a place I've been meaning to go back to since the selection is so appealing. With all that said......"Dive in"
Must try the Trip to Jalisco wow this drink is so good and spicy Yum and the Shrimp Diablo or lobster and shrimp mac and cheese to of the best meals for lunch!
(5)
Katie H.
This place is excellent! Great environment for a date night or just a few drinks with friends. I had the Shrimp Diablo and it was fantastic (made good leftovers too). Their wine list is one of the best in Des Moines. The wait staff is very friendly. It's a bit crowded so get there plenty early. I got there at 6:30 on a Tuesday and it was swarming with people. But it appeared that many were just enjoying a post-work glass of wine. Plenty of seating but I would recommend reservations to be on the safe side. I will definitely be back!
(4)
Darien G.
I really don't get the hype. The service has been sort of spotty the times I've been, and I cannot recall a single time where anybody in my party "raved" about the food. Oh, and wouldn't you think that a place that calls itself a WINE dive would have the wine you want to order in stock? This has happened twice to my group where a choice wasn't available or (when ordering a bottle) the vintage was wrong. I'm not slamming the place as much as it might seem like I am. I just don't think it's worth more than three stars for the prices they charge and the product you get. I can think of many places I'd rather go if I'm shelling out $70+ per person for food & drink. The positive would be that enough people think it is a cool place, so lots of beautiful people will likely be there sharing the space with you.
(3)
Bradley S.
I visit my family only once or twice a year so scheduling quality time together is important. Louie's was suggested by my sister and as she told me about the food and something called lobster poutine I knew I had to go! The entire place was even better than my sister described! The fries with lobster sauce dish (known as lobster poutine) was not on the menu this day, but the chef made it for us anyway. Wow! Chunks of portobello mushrooms, tasty pieces of lobster and other foods that melt in your mouth. And the fries soaked in the sauce sounds bad... But believe me it works. The fries became a salty noodle almost and that is when I decided I needed a glass of wine even though I had not planned on it. Love the wine selection that went well with our main dishes. The Sinatra burger and diablo pasta. Both fantastic. Make sure you like spicy food if you order the diablo. We do! And the burger was different, tasty and great with a red wine. Our waiter even offered a free tasting of a wine that had just come in. Oh my gosh this was so unexpected and the waiter talked to us like he was our best pal. He even offered to take our photo in front of the large wine bottle painting on the wall. Did I mention the unique decor that is a hidden surprise compared to the outside front with the word "dive" on the sign? Thanks for giving us such a memorable lunch experience! Louie's Wine Dive is Louie's Wine Devine!
(5)
Greg S.
Not sure if I will give this place a second shot. Love wine but the brunch was a total train wreck. Space - Cool design but tables are very close together, I am fairly slender and small in stature and I felt like I was spill into the table behind me. Every time I moved, I found myself apologizing to those at the table behind me for bumping them. Service - Staff was friendly but food took an hour. I have little patience for slow food service when it comes to breakfast. This is eggs and toast, not a 5 course affair. My friend's food had to be wrapped before his first bite because he had a bus to catch. No apologies from the staff or offers to comp any of the food. Food - If I have to wait an hour + for eggs and toast after placing my order, it better be the best eggs I have ever had in my life. Sadly, there was little redemption in the food department. 3 ways to sum up the food; pricey, over-seasoned and low quality. Maybe they should just stick with the wine. One bright spot, after paying, the staff finally figured out they needed to do something so they gave me 3 coupons for free wine on my next visit. So I may be back but believe me I am not spending a dime over the 3 free glasses of wine.
(1)
Geri D.
Very crowded way to many tables packed in there. Food was good....not a large menu. Wine small pour....14.00.....wasn't impressed. Probably won't be back.
(2)
Hildie L.
Will need to try again.... Service errors didn't make this place easy to review. I will be back!
(2)
Cliff K.
Try the fish and chips fresh lightly battery wild cod with champagne and rice flour batter and shaved brussel sprouts red cabbage slaw with hand cut Fries
(4)
Alison M.
Went here for an early dinner around 5:30 with a reservation. Place was pretty quiet yet they sat us at a tiny two-top table behind the corner of the room right where the wait staff congregate to pick up their bar orders. Our waitress forgot about us since our table was hidden a bit, and we had to wait a while, during which time the bartender spilled a glass of red wine that splattered on the floor and ultimately on us a bit. Ordered shrimp & grits which were very bland. My guest ordered the apple harvest salad which was very good though. Just wasn't impressed enough to return for another try.
(3)
Michael W.
This may turn into 5 stars when I come back, because I am definitely coming back. I had the Diablo shrimp pasta, very good, but very one dimensional. My wife's Sinatra burger was a work of beef art. So good. The squeaky cheese appetizer was also good. I am specifically coming back for the shrimp and grits!
(4)
Erin H.
I'd give it a 3.5 if I could. Usually it's a solid 4 for food, but service can be a little spotty. We have either really good luck with the service or just so-so. Great wine selection. Lobster mac and cheese is to die for. We went there recently for brunch which was good but not quite as good as the dinners we've had there. All around good restaurant choice in Des Moines. Be prepared to wait on the weekends.
(4)
Megan H.
I've been eagerly anticipating my first visit to Louie's Wine Dive since it opened earlier this year. The reviews on Yelp have been great. I love good wine! I love good food! Surely i would love Louie's Wine Dive, right? Wrong. For starters, there's the restaurant itself. Previous reviewers are right; they repainted the walls, turned the old ordering counter into a bar, and shoved a bunch of booths and high-top tables into the room. We were seated at the high-tops, which are so close together you may as well think of them as long communal tables. I frequently found myself sharing personal space with another party's server as she stood to the left of my barstool and leaned on the table next to my plate in order to speak with the party next to us. However, I can put up with just about anything in pursuit of a good meal. The ambiance wouldn't be a problem if the food was good. Sadly, it was anything but. We started with a house wine, which was fine, and oohed and aahed over the promising-sounding menu. Everything looked so good! We decided to start with the queso fundido with Mexican cheese and chorizo. It was shockingly bland - like we'd been served a bowl of melted supermarket cheese dotted with a few small pieces of chorizo. There was no flavor whatsoever - no heat, no spice, no nothing. Just a plate of melted cheese served with thick bready pitas. The only good part was the chorizo, and there were just a few sparse pieces scattered across the cheese... very disappointing. However, we didn't want to rush to judgement; perhaps our main courses would be better! We pushed aside the cheese and waited. I'd ordered the shrimp and grits, and Charlie had ordered the pork gnocchi. Now, I love shrimp and grits. I've had excellent shrimp and grits in several restaurants across the country. So I feel pretty confident saying these were TERRIBLE shrimp and grits. My grits were the consistency of glue; my shrimp were chewy and overcooked. Again, everything was just so bland - like the chef was cooking without herbs, spices, or seasoning of any kind. It was as though the kitchen staff barely knew what they were doing. Charlie's pork gnocchi were similarly bland. What was going on here??? This place was supposed to be so good! The menu looked awesome! We had high hopes for this place, but left extremely disappointed and unlikely to return. It's possible the vast, ambitious menu means the kitchen staff has to know so many dishes that the quality suffers. Or maybe this is the type of place where you just show up for the wine and some snacks. I can't explain it. I am truly mystified at all the positive comments after eating such bland food in a bland setting. As I was writing this review, I learned that Louie's opened a second location in Kansas City this November. It seems very likely to me that their better staff and chefs may have focused their efforts on the KC location, neglecting Des Moines in the process. It's the only way I can reconcile all these five-star reviews with what was, generously speaking, a two-star experience for me.
(2)
Cj J.
We ate cheese flight, Gazpacho soup, moules frites mussels , vegetable ratatouille and fish & chips with acacia red wine blend to drink . Out Waiter was the best ask for dewayne he was great !!! I will De finely come back it was a great time of good & wine
(5)
Nick K.
Picking a rating for this restaurant after eating here for the first time was quite hard. The atmosphere was normal, the service was great, and the food was both good and terrible. I decided to get the peppercorn burger and quinoa while my fiancee opted for flatbread pizza. The pizza was to the point and delicious. My meal, however, was a disappointment. Not only was the quinoa (listed on the menu merely as "quinoa") served cold in a salad of arugula and strawberries, but the burger was a disaster. Everything was prepared correctly, but the thing just tasted like a hodge-podge of ingredients that didn't compliment one another. I'll give it another shot, but overall, the restaurant didn't stand out strongly in either direction.
(3)
Jerusha E.
We went to Louie's for brunch one Sunday and were pleased. Most of the breakfast options are egg based, but they also offer a few more lunch-ier options. The chicken apple salad was tasty- crunchy apples, fresh cheese and warm chicken. We didn't have drinks, but the menu looked solid.
(4)
Caroline M.
Don't be a tool. Make a reservation! They were packed on a recent Sat night before 6pm. I dined here super early style when my parents were in town and we had a good time. I kinda wished we were seated in a better location. We were at a table in the corner near the restrooms and cases of extra wine stacked up behind us. Not super glam, but whatev. Our server was okay. He suggested a wine and brought me a sample (super tasty!) however I chose a different vino in the end. We did a bottle of sparkling--Cristalino Rose Brut, which is something I've had before. It was $30-ish, so not too bad. Very crisp, dry and super bubbly. And pink--gotta love rose! I went for a salad (shut up, it sounded good!) and flatbread. I did the apple, bacon, goat cheese, pecan salad--told you. And it was full of dark leafy greens, which was great. The bacon seemed a little bit overcooked, like super hard and crunchy. Hrrm.. but the flatbread was spot on. Portobello, balsamic caramelized onions, and Maytag Blue on a cracker-y thin bread. My mom went with the ratatouille, which was a mix of tasty veg on top of quinoa. This actually inspired her to pick up some bulk quinoa at Whole Foods Market the next day ;) And I snagged several bites of my dad's roast jerked chicken, which was also served with quinoa. We passed on dessert because I had a homemade banana cake waiting at my apt. Overall it was a tasty dinner, and liked seeing a fair amount of local additions to the menu, like the Maytag Blue cheese, La Quercia prosciutto, to name a few.
(4)
Mary G.
Agree with most that Louie's is great. Good wine, great staff and nice atmosphere. My only criticism is they need "finger" foods for those of us stopping on our way home from work. I still have to make dinner when I get home so need just enough of something to soak up the wine. Great menu, but I don't need an entree. Maybe partner with South Union bread and the Cheese Shop for some tasting platters'
(4)
Miki B.
Good food, service and atmosphere. We go there frequently before concerts and have always had good experience. Outside area is fin during warm months.
(4)
Chad M.
Our first trip here was excellent. Great service - loved the Pork Gnocci and the wine recommendations were very enjoyable.
(5)
Adam P.
Ok I will just rip it off like a band-aid...I will get the worst of it over quickly. I think the decor is bad. It's not terrible, but could use a professional touch. If it has had a professional touch they defiantly are not king Midas, so they don't need to worry about turning their loved ones into gold. What this place is doing right is fantastic food served up with a reasonable price, and deserts that make you hear angels sing. Let's be honest here, that is why you go somewhere not the look, but the food. I went there for dinner one night, and had friendly well informed service. A few kinks in the knowledge of the wines but it takes a while to train a staff on wine knowledge. I had a flat iron stake and it melted in my mouth, served with a delicious gravy and tasty fries. The next morning I returned for brunch and had the best Corn Pork Hash i have ever had in Des Moines. (Please not the corn Pork is done so in house). No I did not screw that up I said PORK! The two poached eggs when broke open covered the hash, and gave it that perfect velvet texture. The carrots cooked into the has added just a hint of sweetness to the dish. BEST HASH IN DES MOINES!!! Stop reading go.....go now.........eat the delicious hash. This is the first time in years that I did not need to use the salt and pepper on my table. The food was perfectly seasoned for my liking. I will say that I could see some people (who are not use to their food having flavor) would think it is a tad on the salty side. I really believe that this friendly corporate chef, turned restaurant owner, has struck gold in a golden neighborhood. I do mean friendly, and if you dine here you will most likely be greeted by the chef at some point in the evening. You can tell he has a love for food, and wants to make sure his customers are enjoying his passion. I miss the old IBC that use to be housed here, but they could not have opened a better replacement. It is so great to see another really solid restaurant open in the area. This would be a great place for a first date to having a nice dinner with friends and family. They are working on getting the patio running, because of a snag they ran into with the city. Yes you heard me correctly another fantastic patio in Des Moines. I for one can not wait to enjoy sunday brunch out there. p.s. they do have a kids menu.
(5)
Vicki H.
Enjoyed time with friends. Fairly small and crowed. We and reservations for 5:30 on a Friday and bald we did. Food was good and a good wine selection.
(4)
Brooke P.
I am liking this place more and more each time I go! Meomi from Monterey, Ca is such a good glass of pinot nior, also the bruschetta is so good - it is more of a sampler bruschetta with 4 different types - really good!! Overall I really like their menu. Brunch is also very tasty!
(5)
Alexis R.
Everything I imagined. It'll make me sound like a total wine-o, but I have been jonesing to go to this place since before I moved to Des Moines. It did not disappoint. A girlfriend and I waltzed in an hour before close and were greeted so kindly. They put up with us until we toodled out well after posted closing time. Not only did they put up with us, they conversed with us, suggested wines, and generally were totally welcoming. So impressed. Can't wait to give more of the wine list and the menu a try. Go! But not when I'm there. Don't want a crowd all the time now. Let's space this out a bit, people.
(5)
Julia J.
We ate here last night, and now have a new favorite restaurant! Shannon gave us exceptional service, seating us quickly even though we were 30 min early for our reservation. The space in here is tight! We were a bit cramped in our table, but as soon as the couple next to us left, Shannon showed up to scoot the tables over and make more room. The food = fabulous. Salads and pastas did not disappoint. I had the shrimp and lobster Mac and cheese, and I can honestly say it was the best Mac and cheese I have ever eaten. The restaurant was loud, the waist staff was not the best in the world, but we felt welcome and at home. Top that off with mouth watering food at a reasonable price, and we are hooked. We are already making plans to return!
(5)
Beth Y.
Just had my first experience at Louie's for lunch. It was very good overall, with excellent service and wonderful food. I had a grilled cheese and my dining partner had the pulled pork ruben. My sandwich was very good, but next time I will ask for tomatoes to be added. That's just my preference. The fries, I must say, were sublime. Light, crispy, and perfectly cooked. My friend loved his sandwich. The wait person was very helpful and attentive, and turned off the fan which was making us a bit chilly. I am looking forward to returning, especially when the patio opens next week. p.s. someone marked this place as "dressy," which doesn't really seem fitting. I think the atmosphere is more casual than dressy, but perhaps in the evening it is fancier. Try it! It's great to have a restaurant like this in the neighborhood.
(4)
John S.
We went into this dinner very skeptical, I mean come on, the name is very random and strange. But man o man was it great. Reservations on a Friday night were a MUST! The Wine Club is a great idea, wish more places would do clubs like that The fact the place is built on a wine premise meant no screaming kids, I LOVE THAT!! The tables are very close together which is great because it gives the place a real European feel. The flat bread was fantastic!! No place is 100% perfect, the desert menu is a bit skimpy with small portions, and the side area with the couch for just wine drinking is strange and doesn't fit the main dining area feel
(5)
Ray B.
Very nice- fresh food, solid service. Only knock might be the price point. Appreciate the expansive menu, the best I could find in that neighborhood.
(4)
lttlod i.
I love this place! I've been here about 10 times, probably more, and I've pretty much gotten great service along with flavorful amazing food. I've had several items on the menu but do admit to sticking to what I like for the most part. I also like that this menu changes with the seasons, I think I have that right. It doesn't change completely but they add and replace a few things. Food: I've had the burger, of course, with the homemade ranch sauce and ruffle chips. It's a childhood fave of the owner. Last night I also tried the pastrami burger with sauted onions and swiss cheese. Amazing!! I know my pastrami and let me tell you that this was fantastic. I didn't even need the burger part, just a big hunk of pastrami mmmmm. Porcetta (sp?): also amazing and decedent! sooo filling but rich and pork just pork everywhere! I think the owner/chef won an award for this one. Tried my friends buffalo mac and cheese along with truffle mushroom shells sooooooooo good! I typically order the pork ragu flatbread along with the wedge salad that I highly recommend! I sub the blue cheese for fontina and it's soo good. Went for brunch the other week and ordered one of the eggs benedict, not the benedict but the other option with the thin ham. Amazing and rich. Like I said, literally everything this place serves just hits the spot and its all pretty reasonable. several weeks ago I had a 12 person bday party there. Jordan took great care of us and we all had a great time, especially me! Their wine selection is very good although I just refer to my friend who knows wine so I have only had good experiences with the wine they serve. I love that this place is up the street from me and that the owner lives in the neighborhood. It's just what this area needs. The owner/chef also comes by to check on us and is friendly. Atmosphere: this place is always busy! make a reservation, seriously. The patio is our fave! They made a good decision moving the giant booth and replacing it with more high top tables. I think most of the place is now high top tables. Good call! This is basically my go to place. It's the first place my friends and I think to go when we head out to eat. It's consistently awesome and always a great experience. I'll be back for sure. I'll probably be back in a couple of days : P
(5)
Craig R.
Former bakery converted to restaurant. The space is very small and you feel everybody is on top of you; if you are waiting for a table your usually standing in the line of traffic which makes it difficult to have a conversation since you looking over your shoulder most of the time. Food is average and the customer service is poor. In fact, the last time I dined there, I was asked by the manager (or host??) if we could move over to the bar (w/ no seating) so they could seat a table of 4. This probably wouldn't have been a big deal but the fact I just took my last bite and still had a 1/2 bottle of wine after 45 min... it was very lame to ask.
(1)
Shannon P.
Went on feb 23' 2013, had the roasted chicken Alfredo. It was very good. The sauce was very creamy and rich with a lot of chicken. Great service I think his name was Will or Bill, anyway he was very helpful with my groups wine selection. We will go back. It was kind of noisy but the Iowa state v Kansas game was getting ready to start.
(4)
Mitch L.
I am from Omaha and met a person here from Cedar Rapids on a suggestion from a friend. I can tell you one thing, this place would be worth the drive back to Des Moines just to eat here. I put in a reservation on the suggestion of a friend for a Wednesday night meetup. The reservation was a good idea, because this place was packed at 7:15. I saw a few people complained about the decorations, but I thought they were completely fine and fit what the establishment is drying to be. Onto the food, what we all care about the most. My partner for the night and I had the bruschetta sampler platter. This was an amazing dish. It comes with 4 types of bruschetta: steak and blue cheese, tomato basil, mushroom and sweet peper, and some kind of oriental chicken. All four were great, but the standout was the steak and blue cheese. I could have ate a plate of these as my meal for the night. The tomato basil was a very very close second. As for dinner, I had the Lobster and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese. This dish should have been called "Wonders on my Tongue," because that is simply what it was. Imagine buttery, cheesey, lobster, shrimp goodness and multiply that flavor by 100. Only then can you begin to understand how good this dish was. Simply put, it is worth the drive and every penny of the $18 that was spent on this dish. The dish was so good, it overshadowed my partner for the nights dish of shrimp and grits. The shrimp and grits were well cooked and flavorful. There was a strong presence of bacon in the dish that brought it up another level. This was a great dish in its own-right, but just tough to give it props when it is next to something as wonderful as the lobster and shrimp Mac.
(5)
Gigi F.
Wow! This place was AMAZING! It was packed - even on a Wednesday. A coworker and I stopped in for dinner. We were greeted warmly and shown to the bar. The bartender was so attentive and helpful (and very attractive!). We had the Lobster Frittes and the Mussel appetizers. A generous portion of mussels, well prepared, well seasoned and delicious. The lobster dish was gourmet comfort food, so Good. For the entrees, we had the Porchetta, a stuffed marinated pork loin so tender it fell apart with a fork, on a bed of roasted root veggies - cooked to perfection - not too hard, not too soft. We also had the Lobster and Gulf Shrimp Mac and Cheese. As great as that sounds, it tasted even better. For dessert, fresh, light pear pastry with fresh ice cream. Oh my goodness! If I lived in Des Moines, I'd eat there every other day!
(5)
Chase A.
Great first date atmosphere. Order a bottle of vino and had the Lobster Poutine to start. Could have been a little heavier on the lobster and gravy, but was still great. For the main course I had the 4 Pork Gnocchi and was very pleased, although I left the restaurant still pretty hungry. Overall, great place and am looking forward to my next visit.
(4)
Customer D.
We tried Louie's Restaurant Week special....intended to get people to try them and become loyal customers....big strike out. Our appetizer was inedible. First the manager said he would take it off the bill, then later came back and said he couldn't do that. One entree was pretty good (shrimp and grits). The 4-pork gnocchi seemed to be missing any discernable pork at all...it was a big disappointment. The dessert was utterly unremarkable. $50 + tax + tip = $60 totally wasted for poor to mediocre food and a server who didn't really have a clue.
(1)
Jessica L.
I made my first trip to Louie's Wine Dive last night and I can't say that I am eagerly planning my next one. The ambiance is fine although it is a bit tacky to see the cooler/freezer door as you are sitting at the bar or relaxing in the pseudo-lounge area. Most of the staff was friendly - Tony at the door was welcoming and our bartender, Nick, was fantastic. The owner/chef, Jason, introduced himself which is a touch I appreciate. If only he was that nice to his staff... the set-up of the Wine Dive is such that bar patrons and many people in the dining area are able to see some and hear all of what is going on in the kitchen. Last night, that meant that we were subjected to hearing the owner continuously reprimand his cooks as if he is Beaverdale's answer to Gordon Ramsay. It was really a sad situation because not only did his staff have to be treated in this way, it was done in public so we had to watch them try to stay calm and on task. I am sure some people were probably nervous as to how their food was being prepared in such a hostile environment. The menu is fairly ambitious and for the restaurant's second week of being opened, I think everyone expects a reasonable amount of time to pass to allow for proper food preparation. It seemed that the owner was being unreasonably mean to his kitchen staff and we didn't hear of any errors except that he felt they were taking too long. If the wait time is too long then perhaps they need to do more things ahead of time, have more cooking space or even jumping in and helping and leading by example. I spoke with some of the diners and they each said they enjoyed the food and they didn't wait any longer than they expected. This guy needs to realize that he isn't running a burger joint - it appears that even though the word "dive" is in the title, he is trying to establish this venue as a fairly classy restaurant. And this means he needs to put his temper in check and learn how to properly coach and motivate his employees or quickly find a manager to do it for him. Two of the guys sitting at the bar next to us made a similar comment to one of the servers. His response was that the owner has to yell at them like that so they learn and he bets that the next time, they won't work the same way as they did tonight. My reply to that is the owner will be lucky if the staff even returns to work. There is no justification for that behavior and it is unfortunate that a server would reply that way to a customer's comment. The Wine Dive is young but if it wants to become a cornerstone of my Beaverdale community, this is the one thing that will prevent it from doing so. As a customer, I have a very hard time convincing myself to return and spend my money to support tyrants regardless the high quality product and customer service.
(3)
Lim K.
Tried shrimp and grits. It had good flavor; however, it was runny and was not the dish I expected. It was more like cheese soup with eggs. Two stars for food and five stars for service.
(3)
Misty H.
Was dissappointed when I saw the bakery was gone that used to be in this location but love wine so out of curiosity I wandered in. I was simply going to look at the menu since I was wearing jean shorts and a tank top and the place looked nice with cherry wood tables and chairs with bottles of wine on the back wall next to the kitchen although the patio didn't look open yet. The wall in the back could use some color or more design but I liked the place overall. As soon as I walked in and asked for a menu I felt welcomed by the employees ease and smile and so I looked around and most people there seemed to be wearing casual clothes. I was kind of hungry so I sat down at the bar and noticed on the menu a cobb salad. I love cobb salad so thought it wouldn't hurt to go ahead and try it but I am kind of picky as I love the service and cobb salad at Flemings. John the guy behind the bar introduced himself and handed me a wine menu so I thought what the heck I'll go ahead and get a glass. Had a great glass of Pinot Noir he let me sample first .The salad came out it was really good, I prefer more blue cheese but I was still impressed, the green goddess dressing was yummy and the salad was cold and crisp and on such a hot day it was perfect. A lady walked in doing the same thing just looking in curiously and John welcomed her with the same kind smile so she asked for a menu just to look at and as I was sitting at the bar next to where she stood she asked me if the salad was good. I told her it was so she sat a few seats down an ordered the salmon salad. Her and I ended up chatting it up while she was waiting for her salad. The owner Jason came over and checked to see how we were doing and talked with us for a bit. I asked Jason about the patio and he said they were going to have it open soon they had just had some paperwork they had to get done first. I watched him go back in the kitchen and work on food preparation with his staff. It was nice to be able to see my food being made, you can see the cooks from the room which really put my mind at ease. I have gone several times as it is nearby all my errands and have loved the food. The second time I came Jason recalled me right away with a smile chatted for a bit even though I could tell he was busy and invited me to come back again. The staff all at one point checked on me at the bar each time I go. I feel so at home every time I come, it has quickly become my new favorite place to eat. I brought my teenager in to try the food the last night and she had the salmon salad since I told her the lady I sat next to had loved hers and for dessert my daughter had the graham cracker smores which has a small fire in a metal holder to roast the marshmallows she thought it was awesome. I had the flat iron steak it was so good and they let me switch out the fries for the quinoa as I am a bit of a health nut. Nick and John are so much fun behind the bar and it was packed for a tuesday night. Every employee I have met there has been helpful and so nice. I have been a part of many a soft opening as I moved around and waitressed for 15 years and the employees and owners seem to get along no different than any other soft opening. If anything they seem to be happy and joking when things die down and serious and down to business when work needs to get done to make sure the customers come first. My daughter asked if we could go eat there again this weekend already. Yeah we'll be back.
(5)
katherine l.
Went to Louie's last night for some drinks and had an ok time. I will venture back to try the food but might wait a few weeks until they work out some of the kinks. I felt they were pretty proud of some of their wine prices. I also ordered a Louie Douie Martini and it was pretty lack luster. Very tasteless and mostly a bitter taste. The ambiance was a little lack luster. I know it had dive in the name but the green and mauve reminded me of the 80's. We were seated close to the restroom and all I could smell was bathroom cleaner. Which I'm thankful for a clean bathroom, but was a bit over powering. We ordered a cheese plate to share and when our server brought it out he had no idea what cheese was what and had to call someone over. Don't you think you might have asked the kitchen before you brought it out? I think it'll be an ok place but their staff needs a bit more education (at least the waiter we had), and if I'm going to go spend 50-100 bucks on after drinks alone (for 4 people we had two drinks each), I was expecting a bit more polished experience.
(3)
Kris D.
I thought I'd update that I've been back to this restaurant twice. I will say, the food is just so freaking good! The service has definitely improved with time. I will continue to be a repeat customer, and I recommend it to my friends.
(4)
Brian R.
My first visit to Louie's. The other reviews helped me decide to go here. Went with my wife and had some good food. So overall the service was good, the food was good and its a pretty nice environment in there. My only complaint is that you are sitting right on top of one another at the tables, or at least where I was sitting. So maybe try and go with a group instead of just 2.
(4)
Alicia H.
We came for brunch on a Sunday morning and sat outside on the patio, which was lovely. Relaxing and spacious! The food was solidly tasty - we got the Harvest Eggs Benedict and the honey butter chicken sandwich. Sadly the oven wasn't working so that took a few options away that we were interested in. And our server was a sweet kid who didn't seem to know much about the place he was working which provided us some laughs but wasn't impressive. Overall I would recommend and we'll be back!
(4)
Doug L.
Nice outdoor seating and a great night to sit outside. The wine and beer list was nice As a vegetarian there are only a couple choices. I looked at the menu and was going to get mushroom ravioli. The waiter came over and gave us 4 or 5 items there were out Of. I understand once in a while having One thing sold out but at 630p they shouldn't be sold out of that much. So I look at the menu again and decide on a Caesar salad. We order and 'oh o forgot to tell you, we are out of that too'. So I get a different salad. It was well prepared but with too much dressing I went with my daughter and son in law who had been before And really liked it. So maybe I just caught them on a bad night but if hadn't been for their positive thoughts I would never go back
(2)
Nicole V.
I have been to Louie's Wine Dive a handful of times. I've had 5-star worthy visits, and 3-star worthy visits (hence the 4 stars). The service can be inconsistent -- except at the bar! The last few times we just sit at the bar and have a great experience each time. The bartenders have been able to recommend wine that fits my mood and my food. The gnocchi is great - several variations of pork with crispy gnochi. I also really like the quinoa/arugula side salad. Today I had the tiramisu and it was awesome too. I recommend reservations during dinner on Friday and Saturday. They are on OpenTable.
(4)
Liz A.
I'm a little hit or miss on this place. Some of the pasta dishes I have had are good but maybe could use some additional seasonings? But they have my favorite salad in town - Emily Apple Harvest Salad. It's so fresh and good. I also like the flatbreads. They are always friendly with good service. It's good to see the restaurant doing well in that location.
(4)
Patrick T.
Louie your place is not a dive at all? It's actually really nice! I love your high top tables, your huge salads, and if I was an avid Wine drinker you might have to call me your new roommate! Because your selection of the grape goods is pretty remarkable! But have no fear beer drinkers, they got that stuff too! They also have an awesome patio for summer sun, and sipping. And the service is delightful, looking forward to Louie inviting me back over for more!
(4)
Donna S.
My review is for the weekend brunch. The bottomless mimosa menu caught my eye. And we were meeting friends for breakfast. This little neighbor spot in the uptown shopping center did not disappoint. A brief brunch menu - about 12 items. A Bloody Mary and mimosa menu $6 a glass or $12 for bottomless. Service was great, coffee and water always full. Food came out hot and had great flavor. Brunch prices $8-$12. I would like to come back and try their dinner and see the wine list.
(4)
Ashley B.
The food is great, but the service is not great. I'm normally pretty understanding with busy days, but not getting refills and waiting to the point of going to the host station to pay for our bill is too much. We probably won't be back, which is too bad because the food is damn good.
(2)
Jason S.
Went here for brunch on a rainy Sunday morning. They had some very unique breakfast entrees. I had the mac and cheese omelet with potatoes and my dining partner had the bourbon french toast with a grapefruit mimosa. Both were delicious and the portions were great! The dive is nice and the prices are very reasonable. I'd go back again - for brunch or lunch or dinner. They have bottomless mimosas during brunch and it's a good deal!
(4)
Tom T.
Horrible customer service! Traveled 3 hours to meet friends. Hyped up Louis's. Looked forward to our evening. Entered the bar and was told to seat ourselves. We did on the outdoor patio. Server came to our table and told us we couldn't sit at a 2 top as a foursome as it blocked the aisle. Aisles on an outdoor patio!?! Give me a break! Ruined our evening. Stupid rule. We will never return . Off to a more hospitable place.
(1)
Brandy V.
Our waiter was incredible. Our food was insane. The bone on the 28ounce ribeye was larger then my arm. Everything was very Tasty.
(5)
Ashley T.
To me, Louie's has a casual, somewhat ambivalent appearance from the outside, but when you get in and check out the menu, it's impressive. I've been for dinner and recommend it, also just for drinks with friends, or most recently my husband and I just had drinks on the patio with the hummus appetizer as an afterthought, and it was very good. Light, but filling. The street is a little noisy, but this is a great patio for taking the opportunity to get outside on a nice day!
(4)
Gerald Z.
Ok..this place is awesome. Took my wife here on date night. It was packed on a friday night at 8 as it should be. They were so nice though and sat us at the bar and we enjoyed a few cocktails while we waited for our table. The bartenders were very nice and took the time to explain some of the different cocktails to us. the food was tremendous, unfortunately they had run out of the pig stix when we arrived but we ordered the cheese flight and pate to start...yum. great mix of cheeses and a cherry/jalapeno jam. My wife then had a gnocchi with pork ragout and i had the fish and chips. the world stopped when i had their fish and chips.... WOW...these are probably the best fish and chips I have EVER had. Crisp outside, flakey inside not greasy at all. The fish was fresh and moist. I could have ordered four of those. that's the only complaint i had is that there wasn't enough. My wife and i devoured the fish and chips...wow...can't say enough about those. I never thought there would be better fish and chips than those i get at the royal mile, but I have to say these are BETTER. Much better in fact. We finished with a chocolate chip cookie sundae each which was unremarkable but satisfying. this is a great joint, love this place. ORDER THE FISH AND CHIPS.
(4)
Michael W.
This may turn into 5 stars when I come back, because I am definitely coming back. I had the Diablo shrimp pasta, very good, but very one dimensional. My wife's Sinatra burger was a work of beef art. So good. The squeaky cheese appetizer was also good. I am specifically coming back for the shrimp and grits!
(4)
Erin H.
I'd give it a 3.5 if I could. Usually it's a solid 4 for food, but service can be a little spotty. We have either really good luck with the service or just so-so. Great wine selection. Lobster mac and cheese is to die for. We went there recently for brunch which was good but not quite as good as the dinners we've had there. All around good restaurant choice in Des Moines. Be prepared to wait on the weekends.
(4)
Nick K.
Picking a rating for this restaurant after eating here for the first time was quite hard. The atmosphere was normal, the service was great, and the food was both good and terrible. I decided to get the peppercorn burger and quinoa while my fiancee opted for flatbread pizza. The pizza was to the point and delicious. My meal, however, was a disappointment. Not only was the quinoa (listed on the menu merely as "quinoa") served cold in a salad of arugula and strawberries, but the burger was a disaster. Everything was prepared correctly, but the thing just tasted like a hodge-podge of ingredients that didn't compliment one another. I'll give it another shot, but overall, the restaurant didn't stand out strongly in either direction.
(3)
Jerusha E.
We went to Louie's for brunch one Sunday and were pleased. Most of the breakfast options are egg based, but they also offer a few more lunch-ier options. The chicken apple salad was tasty- crunchy apples, fresh cheese and warm chicken. We didn't have drinks, but the menu looked solid.
(4)
Caroline M.
Don't be a tool. Make a reservation! They were packed on a recent Sat night before 6pm. I dined here super early style when my parents were in town and we had a good time. I kinda wished we were seated in a better location. We were at a table in the corner near the restrooms and cases of extra wine stacked up behind us. Not super glam, but whatev. Our server was okay. He suggested a wine and brought me a sample (super tasty!) however I chose a different vino in the end. We did a bottle of sparkling--Cristalino Rose Brut, which is something I've had before. It was $30-ish, so not too bad. Very crisp, dry and super bubbly. And pink--gotta love rose! I went for a salad (shut up, it sounded good!) and flatbread. I did the apple, bacon, goat cheese, pecan salad--told you. And it was full of dark leafy greens, which was great. The bacon seemed a little bit overcooked, like super hard and crunchy. Hrrm.. but the flatbread was spot on. Portobello, balsamic caramelized onions, and Maytag Blue on a cracker-y thin bread. My mom went with the ratatouille, which was a mix of tasty veg on top of quinoa. This actually inspired her to pick up some bulk quinoa at Whole Foods Market the next day ;) And I snagged several bites of my dad's roast jerked chicken, which was also served with quinoa. We passed on dessert because I had a homemade banana cake waiting at my apt. Overall it was a tasty dinner, and liked seeing a fair amount of local additions to the menu, like the Maytag Blue cheese, La Quercia prosciutto, to name a few.
(4)
Alicia H.
We came for brunch on a Sunday morning and sat outside on the patio, which was lovely. Relaxing and spacious! The food was solidly tasty - we got the Harvest Eggs Benedict and the honey butter chicken sandwich. Sadly the oven wasn't working so that took a few options away that we were interested in. And our server was a sweet kid who didn't seem to know much about the place he was working which provided us some laughs but wasn't impressive. Overall I would recommend and we'll be back!
(4)
Doug L.
Nice outdoor seating and a great night to sit outside. The wine and beer list was nice As a vegetarian there are only a couple choices. I looked at the menu and was going to get mushroom ravioli. The waiter came over and gave us 4 or 5 items there were out Of. I understand once in a while having One thing sold out but at 630p they shouldn't be sold out of that much. So I look at the menu again and decide on a Caesar salad. We order and 'oh o forgot to tell you, we are out of that too'. So I get a different salad. It was well prepared but with too much dressing I went with my daughter and son in law who had been before And really liked it. So maybe I just caught them on a bad night but if hadn't been for their positive thoughts I would never go back
(2)
Nicole V.
I have been to Louie's Wine Dive a handful of times. I've had 5-star worthy visits, and 3-star worthy visits (hence the 4 stars). The service can be inconsistent -- except at the bar! The last few times we just sit at the bar and have a great experience each time. The bartenders have been able to recommend wine that fits my mood and my food. The gnocchi is great - several variations of pork with crispy gnochi. I also really like the quinoa/arugula side salad. Today I had the tiramisu and it was awesome too. I recommend reservations during dinner on Friday and Saturday. They are on OpenTable.
(4)
Liz A.
I'm a little hit or miss on this place. Some of the pasta dishes I have had are good but maybe could use some additional seasonings? But they have my favorite salad in town - Emily Apple Harvest Salad. It's so fresh and good. I also like the flatbreads. They are always friendly with good service. It's good to see the restaurant doing well in that location.
(4)
Patrick T.
Louie your place is not a dive at all? It's actually really nice! I love your high top tables, your huge salads, and if I was an avid Wine drinker you might have to call me your new roommate! Because your selection of the grape goods is pretty remarkable! But have no fear beer drinkers, they got that stuff too! They also have an awesome patio for summer sun, and sipping. And the service is delightful, looking forward to Louie inviting me back over for more!
(4)
Donna S.
My review is for the weekend brunch. The bottomless mimosa menu caught my eye. And we were meeting friends for breakfast. This little neighbor spot in the uptown shopping center did not disappoint. A brief brunch menu - about 12 items. A Bloody Mary and mimosa menu $6 a glass or $12 for bottomless. Service was great, coffee and water always full. Food came out hot and had great flavor. Brunch prices $8-$12. I would like to come back and try their dinner and see the wine list.
(4)
Ashley B.
The food is great, but the service is not great. I'm normally pretty understanding with busy days, but not getting refills and waiting to the point of going to the host station to pay for our bill is too much. We probably won't be back, which is too bad because the food is damn good.
(2)
Jason S.
Went here for brunch on a rainy Sunday morning. They had some very unique breakfast entrees. I had the mac and cheese omelet with potatoes and my dining partner had the bourbon french toast with a grapefruit mimosa. Both were delicious and the portions were great! The dive is nice and the prices are very reasonable. I'd go back again - for brunch or lunch or dinner. They have bottomless mimosas during brunch and it's a good deal!
(4)
Tom T.
Horrible customer service! Traveled 3 hours to meet friends. Hyped up Louis's. Looked forward to our evening. Entered the bar and was told to seat ourselves. We did on the outdoor patio. Server came to our table and told us we couldn't sit at a 2 top as a foursome as it blocked the aisle. Aisles on an outdoor patio!?! Give me a break! Ruined our evening. Stupid rule. We will never return . Off to a more hospitable place.
(1)
Brandy V.
Our waiter was incredible. Our food was insane. The bone on the 28ounce ribeye was larger then my arm. Everything was very Tasty.
(5)
Ashley T.
To me, Louie's has a casual, somewhat ambivalent appearance from the outside, but when you get in and check out the menu, it's impressive. I've been for dinner and recommend it, also just for drinks with friends, or most recently my husband and I just had drinks on the patio with the hummus appetizer as an afterthought, and it was very good. Light, but filling. The street is a little noisy, but this is a great patio for taking the opportunity to get outside on a nice day!
(4)
Michelle R.
This place is a true delight; from the adult beverage selection to the food! It's fantastic! The menu is delightful, seasonal, and delicious. The prices are reasonable for the fantastic quality of the food that 8 served. The server was knowledgeable, courteous, and more than willing to give excellent suggestions. I will most definitely look forward to returning here for their four course dinner in the hopefully not too distant future!
(5)
Lisa W.
I've eaten at Louie's three times and overall each experience has been great. I've had a seafood dish every time, crab cakes, scallops, lobster salad sandwhich, and they've all been very good. I enjoy the location as a neighborhood restaurant and the decor and atmosphere. Most times the service has been fast and efficient, although the time we were there for brunch my friend waited quite a long time for refills on her bottomless Mimosa. They also have a very good selection of craft beers and local craft beers. The prices are reasonable. I highly recommend Louie's to my friends and family.
(4)
Tom C.
Twenty years ago this was the location of my childhood comic book store. I moved away and the retail winds shifted, and the location apparently went through a few incarnations. On a recent nostalgia tour I found myself standing outside like a dog outside its dead owner's bedroom, waiting for him to emerge and looking uncertainly at the nearest human, not understanding that what it once loved is dead and gone forever. I decided to go in to see if there was any nostalgia to be had in the walls and fixtures, and as I entered I was stunned to see a thriving classy and hip restaurant and bar. From the outside it looked like a liquor store. On the inside it looked nothing like a comic book store or liquor store. The atmosphere was really very hip and fun, and the service (I are at the bar, which used to be a wall separating the comic racks from the RPGs and war game collectibles) was really fantastic. Friendly and fun. I was given a wooden bottle puzzle to play with and enjoyed talking to the staff. My only complaint is that none of them seemed at all interested in the location's past as a neighborhood comic book shop. Any genuine follow-up at all would've automatically earned a massive tip. As for the food, I ordered the salmon salad. The salad was fine, but the salmon was overcooked and mostly inedible. There also wasn't enough goat cheese. 4 stars for a great atmosphere and that particular feeling of bittersweet longing only an aged comic book/RPG fan raised in the 80s could understand.
(4)
Andy S.
My girlfriend ate here a few months ago. The place looked nice, the food was good, and the server was very friendly. Price was about what you would expect. I forget what we ordered, but one of the dishes came with this rectangular potato thing which was made up of very thin potato slices, and was absolutely awesome. My g/f and I have been thinking of coming back and just ordering wine and multiple rectangular potato thing sides.
(4)
Mary H.
Walking in I felt a bit self-conscious in my scrubs; the atmosphere seems to call for fancier attire (most of the other guests were all doodled up for midweek lunch? Perhaps they don't have jobs/school.) After the initial awkward feeling everything was great. Our server, Josh/John (I really need to work on remembering names) made the meal even more enjoyable. Him being in a tshirt made me feel more comfortable. Great sense of humor and left us alone as appropriate. Pesto chicken flatbread came out and I thought, "I won't be able to eat all that," but it was so darn good I finished it. No regrets! My friend had the margarita flatbread and confessed the same sentiments at the end. I don't know how lavosh is supposed to be, so I can't really judge it; this serves as the base for the flatbread and is light/crispy so you don't feel all weighed down (or guilty) ... Why I decided to take a pregnant lady to a place with "wine" in the name-- I'm not sure. But I will most definitely be returning for a happy hour where aforementioned flatbreads are $5. Can't wait to try to the wine.
(4)
Koby A.
Amazing brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. Had the crab cake benedict and my husband had the burger. Both were fantastic. Also tried the various unique mimosas from their bottomless offerings. My fave was the one with grapefruit juice.
(5)
Thomas S.
Amazing food. Fantastic experience. Reccomended -- Gooey Louie. Mussels. The app with shrimp and French fries. Loved it.
(5)
Kelly S.
I love the premise of this restaurant and so badly wanted it to be a go-to spot. Unfortunately, both the food and service has been hit or miss. On my first visit, a fellow diner ordered chicken - that came out visibly raw in the middle. The kitchen threw the same piece of chicken back on the grill and then sent it out (after everyone else at the table had finished their meal) overcooked. Management seemed annoyed when they had to deal with the situaion and offered the table a free dessert. On my second visit, I sat at the bar with a friend and had a salad (afraid to order food) and drinks. No problems, but nothing fantastic either. The bartender did seem knowledgeable about the wine selection. On my last and FINAL visit, I stopped in for a bit of chocolate and a glass of red wine. My partner was having dinner. BOTH The chocolate dessert and the wine I ordered were out. I was offered a different wine which I was pleased with and ordered a salted caramel dessert. The dessert was terrible and so salty I couldn't eat it. My dinner date was also disappointed with her meal. Overall, for the money you spend and the prices they charge, I believe the food is subpar. It's too bad really because, as I said before, I really wanted the place to be a smash. I hear the brunch is good. If I was to visit again it would be for brunch, but I really don't see that happening.
I don't drink but my partner in crime does love fancy wine so this a logical place to go. It's not a dive to start off, I'm sure you might get many visuals in your head hearing the word dive. But it's nice inside, I promise. They have a very nice menu, many unique dishes that you can pair a good glass of wine up with and with almost everything under $20 too. I had the pan roasted Chicken, it was a good dish. But they have so much more to try! This is a place I've been meaning to go back to since the selection is so appealing. With all that said......"Dive in"
Must try the Trip to Jalisco wow this drink is so good and spicy Yum and the Shrimp Diablo or lobster and shrimp mac and cheese to of the best meals for lunch!
(5)
Diane B.
I really enjoy Louies for dinner. Interesting menu options- something for everyone! The waitstaff I'd very knowledgable about wines and wine/ food pairings. Sean has never steered us wrong in his recommendations of wine or daily specials. It's a neighborhood place with " downtown" class!! I REALLY recommend the Lobster Poutine- it's Heaven!!
(4)
Katie H.
This place is excellent! Great environment for a date night or just a few drinks with friends. I had the Shrimp Diablo and it was fantastic (made good leftovers too). Their wine list is one of the best in Des Moines. The wait staff is very friendly. It's a bit crowded so get there plenty early. I got there at 6:30 on a Tuesday and it was swarming with people. But it appeared that many were just enjoying a post-work glass of wine. Plenty of seating but I would recommend reservations to be on the safe side. I will definitely be back!
(4)
Darien G.
I really don't get the hype. The service has been sort of spotty the times I've been, and I cannot recall a single time where anybody in my party "raved" about the food. Oh, and wouldn't you think that a place that calls itself a WINE dive would have the wine you want to order in stock? This has happened twice to my group where a choice wasn't available or (when ordering a bottle) the vintage was wrong. I'm not slamming the place as much as it might seem like I am. I just don't think it's worth more than three stars for the prices they charge and the product you get. I can think of many places I'd rather go if I'm shelling out $70+ per person for food & drink. The positive would be that enough people think it is a cool place, so lots of beautiful people will likely be there sharing the space with you.
(3)
Alison M.
Went here for an early dinner around 5:30 with a reservation. Place was pretty quiet yet they sat us at a tiny two-top table behind the corner of the room right where the wait staff congregate to pick up their bar orders. Our waitress forgot about us since our table was hidden a bit, and we had to wait a while, during which time the bartender spilled a glass of red wine that splattered on the floor and ultimately on us a bit. Ordered shrimp & grits which were very bland. My guest ordered the apple harvest salad which was very good though. Just wasn't impressed enough to return for another try.
(3)
Mary G.
Agree with most that Louie's is great. Good wine, great staff and nice atmosphere. My only criticism is they need "finger" foods for those of us stopping on our way home from work. I still have to make dinner when I get home so need just enough of something to soak up the wine. Great menu, but I don't need an entree. Maybe partner with South Union bread and the Cheese Shop for some tasting platters'
(4)
Miki B.
Good food, service and atmosphere. We go there frequently before concerts and have always had good experience. Outside area is fin during warm months.
(4)
Chad M.
Our first trip here was excellent. Great service - loved the Pork Gnocci and the wine recommendations were very enjoyable.
(5)
Bradley S.
I visit my family only once or twice a year so scheduling quality time together is important. Louie's was suggested by my sister and as she told me about the food and something called lobster poutine I knew I had to go! The entire place was even better than my sister described! The fries with lobster sauce dish (known as lobster poutine) was not on the menu this day, but the chef made it for us anyway. Wow! Chunks of portobello mushrooms, tasty pieces of lobster and other foods that melt in your mouth. And the fries soaked in the sauce sounds bad... But believe me it works. The fries became a salty noodle almost and that is when I decided I needed a glass of wine even though I had not planned on it. Love the wine selection that went well with our main dishes. The Sinatra burger and diablo pasta. Both fantastic. Make sure you like spicy food if you order the diablo. We do! And the burger was different, tasty and great with a red wine. Our waiter even offered a free tasting of a wine that had just come in. Oh my gosh this was so unexpected and the waiter talked to us like he was our best pal. He even offered to take our photo in front of the large wine bottle painting on the wall. Did I mention the unique decor that is a hidden surprise compared to the outside front with the word "dive" on the sign? Thanks for giving us such a memorable lunch experience! Louie's Wine Dive is Louie's Wine Devine!
(5)
Greg S.
Not sure if I will give this place a second shot. Love wine but the brunch was a total train wreck. Space - Cool design but tables are very close together, I am fairly slender and small in stature and I felt like I was spill into the table behind me. Every time I moved, I found myself apologizing to those at the table behind me for bumping them. Service - Staff was friendly but food took an hour. I have little patience for slow food service when it comes to breakfast. This is eggs and toast, not a 5 course affair. My friend's food had to be wrapped before his first bite because he had a bus to catch. No apologies from the staff or offers to comp any of the food. Food - If I have to wait an hour + for eggs and toast after placing my order, it better be the best eggs I have ever had in my life. Sadly, there was little redemption in the food department. 3 ways to sum up the food; pricey, over-seasoned and low quality. Maybe they should just stick with the wine. One bright spot, after paying, the staff finally figured out they needed to do something so they gave me 3 coupons for free wine on my next visit. So I may be back but believe me I am not spending a dime over the 3 free glasses of wine.
(1)
Geri D.
Very crowded way to many tables packed in there. Food was good....not a large menu. Wine small pour....14.00.....wasn't impressed. Probably won't be back.
(2)
Hildie L.
Will need to try again.... Service errors didn't make this place easy to review. I will be back!
(2)
Cliff K.
Try the fish and chips fresh lightly battery wild cod with champagne and rice flour batter and shaved brussel sprouts red cabbage slaw with hand cut Fries
(4)
Megan H.
I've been eagerly anticipating my first visit to Louie's Wine Dive since it opened earlier this year. The reviews on Yelp have been great. I love good wine! I love good food! Surely i would love Louie's Wine Dive, right? Wrong. For starters, there's the restaurant itself. Previous reviewers are right; they repainted the walls, turned the old ordering counter into a bar, and shoved a bunch of booths and high-top tables into the room. We were seated at the high-tops, which are so close together you may as well think of them as long communal tables. I frequently found myself sharing personal space with another party's server as she stood to the left of my barstool and leaned on the table next to my plate in order to speak with the party next to us. However, I can put up with just about anything in pursuit of a good meal. The ambiance wouldn't be a problem if the food was good. Sadly, it was anything but. We started with a house wine, which was fine, and oohed and aahed over the promising-sounding menu. Everything looked so good! We decided to start with the queso fundido with Mexican cheese and chorizo. It was shockingly bland - like we'd been served a bowl of melted supermarket cheese dotted with a few small pieces of chorizo. There was no flavor whatsoever - no heat, no spice, no nothing. Just a plate of melted cheese served with thick bready pitas. The only good part was the chorizo, and there were just a few sparse pieces scattered across the cheese... very disappointing. However, we didn't want to rush to judgement; perhaps our main courses would be better! We pushed aside the cheese and waited. I'd ordered the shrimp and grits, and Charlie had ordered the pork gnocchi. Now, I love shrimp and grits. I've had excellent shrimp and grits in several restaurants across the country. So I feel pretty confident saying these were TERRIBLE shrimp and grits. My grits were the consistency of glue; my shrimp were chewy and overcooked. Again, everything was just so bland - like the chef was cooking without herbs, spices, or seasoning of any kind. It was as though the kitchen staff barely knew what they were doing. Charlie's pork gnocchi were similarly bland. What was going on here??? This place was supposed to be so good! The menu looked awesome! We had high hopes for this place, but left extremely disappointed and unlikely to return. It's possible the vast, ambitious menu means the kitchen staff has to know so many dishes that the quality suffers. Or maybe this is the type of place where you just show up for the wine and some snacks. I can't explain it. I am truly mystified at all the positive comments after eating such bland food in a bland setting. As I was writing this review, I learned that Louie's opened a second location in Kansas City this November. It seems very likely to me that their better staff and chefs may have focused their efforts on the KC location, neglecting Des Moines in the process. It's the only way I can reconcile all these five-star reviews with what was, generously speaking, a two-star experience for me.
(2)
Cj J.
We ate cheese flight, Gazpacho soup, moules frites mussels , vegetable ratatouille and fish & chips with acacia red wine blend to drink . Out Waiter was the best ask for dewayne he was great !!! I will De finely come back it was a great time of good & wine
(5)
Adam P.
Ok I will just rip it off like a band-aid...I will get the worst of it over quickly. I think the decor is bad. It's not terrible, but could use a professional touch. If it has had a professional touch they defiantly are not king Midas, so they don't need to worry about turning their loved ones into gold. What this place is doing right is fantastic food served up with a reasonable price, and deserts that make you hear angels sing. Let's be honest here, that is why you go somewhere not the look, but the food. I went there for dinner one night, and had friendly well informed service. A few kinks in the knowledge of the wines but it takes a while to train a staff on wine knowledge. I had a flat iron stake and it melted in my mouth, served with a delicious gravy and tasty fries. The next morning I returned for brunch and had the best Corn Pork Hash i have ever had in Des Moines. (Please not the corn Pork is done so in house). No I did not screw that up I said PORK! The two poached eggs when broke open covered the hash, and gave it that perfect velvet texture. The carrots cooked into the has added just a hint of sweetness to the dish. BEST HASH IN DES MOINES!!! Stop reading go.....go now.........eat the delicious hash. This is the first time in years that I did not need to use the salt and pepper on my table. The food was perfectly seasoned for my liking. I will say that I could see some people (who are not use to their food having flavor) would think it is a tad on the salty side. I really believe that this friendly corporate chef, turned restaurant owner, has struck gold in a golden neighborhood. I do mean friendly, and if you dine here you will most likely be greeted by the chef at some point in the evening. You can tell he has a love for food, and wants to make sure his customers are enjoying his passion. I miss the old IBC that use to be housed here, but they could not have opened a better replacement. It is so great to see another really solid restaurant open in the area. This would be a great place for a first date to having a nice dinner with friends and family. They are working on getting the patio running, because of a snag they ran into with the city. Yes you heard me correctly another fantastic patio in Des Moines. I for one can not wait to enjoy sunday brunch out there. p.s. they do have a kids menu.
(5)
Vicki H.
Enjoyed time with friends. Fairly small and crowed. We and reservations for 5:30 on a Friday and bald we did. Food was good and a good wine selection.
(4)
Brooke P.
I am liking this place more and more each time I go! Meomi from Monterey, Ca is such a good glass of pinot nior, also the bruschetta is so good - it is more of a sampler bruschetta with 4 different types - really good!! Overall I really like their menu. Brunch is also very tasty!
(5)
Alexis R.
Everything I imagined. It'll make me sound like a total wine-o, but I have been jonesing to go to this place since before I moved to Des Moines. It did not disappoint. A girlfriend and I waltzed in an hour before close and were greeted so kindly. They put up with us until we toodled out well after posted closing time. Not only did they put up with us, they conversed with us, suggested wines, and generally were totally welcoming. So impressed. Can't wait to give more of the wine list and the menu a try. Go! But not when I'm there. Don't want a crowd all the time now. Let's space this out a bit, people.
(5)
Erika H.
Let me start off with overall a great experience and could have easily been 5 stars. Bartenders were courteous and spot on. Server was helpful in aiding our selections we split everything to try more. We started with the Calamari then the large apple harvest salad (both were delicious!) and finished with the 4 pork gnocchi which was also good. We decided against dessert and once that decision was made we were brought our checks. The server stopped by to pick them up but we hadn't put payment in she then informed us that she had been cut and would be back to pick up the checks. Which was done quickly after putting our cards in. The ran them we signed them and she picked them up without thanking us or stating should we need anything so and so could help us. Out the door she went. Funny thing is the friend that I was with used to be restaurant managers together.
(4)
Christine T.
My husband and I had our first visit to Louie's this week, and it won't be our last. We stopped in for a late breakfast on a Saturday and found friendly, efficient wait staff and a great menu. Both of us ordered off the breakfast menu (it was 10 am) and our dishes were inventive and delicious. My husband asked to look at the dinner menu for fun and when he found an appetizer that sounded good (red pepper humus) he was able to order it as well! The menu is eclectic, American food with a nod to NOLA - oysters, shrimp and grits and croque madame. And where else in Des Moines can you get Lobster poutine? I can't wait to try it. It is a rare occurrence when I find a menu and I want to try almost everything on it, but I am going to try. I have read comments about the decor. Frankly, I don't get it. The seating is comfortable and the wall color warmed the room. It is certainly preferable to the modern concrete floor, metal table, operating room ambiance some of the newer restaurants. Try Louie's, we want to keep a quality restaurant here in our neighborhood, just don't tell all your friends, I want to be able to get a table too.
(5)
Kristin S.
My boyfriend and I decided to try this for the first time before attending a lecture at Drake U. The staff was super friendly (and even seemed to be having fun while working) and the setting was comfortable and lovely at the same time. Our food arrived quickly - a salad and a burger - both fantastic. We informed our server that we needed to leave quickly, so he was prompt with the check. We will totally be going back.
(5)
Jennifer W.
I'm a big fan. The place is just right down the street from me, which is awesome. We've needed a new local in the Beav for awhile. It is usually really busy, so you definitely want to call ahead for a reservation or to put your name in. My husband and I usually just sit at the bar when it's packed. You have a fun, talkative, crowd but can get some privacy too. The food has yet to disappoint. We've been for breakfast, lunch, appetizers and dinner. I haven't had anything I didn't like. Some of my favs have been: the flatbread, the lobster poutin, lobster mac and cheese (duh!), the cuban sandwich, and oddly the salmon caesar salad. Also, the cocktails are pretty good- mostly classic cocktails which I appreciate, some with minor variations. Obviously they have a good wine list. Lastly, the service has been really awesome every time we've been. I haven't seen that kind of consistency in awhile. Overall, I definitely recommend this place. It's casual, there is range of prices on food, the drinks are flowing and the food/service is great.
(5)
Julia J.
We ate here last night, and now have a new favorite restaurant! Shannon gave us exceptional service, seating us quickly even though we were 30 min early for our reservation. The space in here is tight! We were a bit cramped in our table, but as soon as the couple next to us left, Shannon showed up to scoot the tables over and make more room. The food = fabulous. Salads and pastas did not disappoint. I had the shrimp and lobster Mac and cheese, and I can honestly say it was the best Mac and cheese I have ever eaten. The restaurant was loud, the waist staff was not the best in the world, but we felt welcome and at home. Top that off with mouth watering food at a reasonable price, and we are hooked. We are already making plans to return!
(5)
Beth Y.
Just had my first experience at Louie's for lunch. It was very good overall, with excellent service and wonderful food. I had a grilled cheese and my dining partner had the pulled pork ruben. My sandwich was very good, but next time I will ask for tomatoes to be added. That's just my preference. The fries, I must say, were sublime. Light, crispy, and perfectly cooked. My friend loved his sandwich. The wait person was very helpful and attentive, and turned off the fan which was making us a bit chilly. I am looking forward to returning, especially when the patio opens next week. p.s. someone marked this place as "dressy," which doesn't really seem fitting. I think the atmosphere is more casual than dressy, but perhaps in the evening it is fancier. Try it! It's great to have a restaurant like this in the neighborhood.
(4)
John S.
We went into this dinner very skeptical, I mean come on, the name is very random and strange. But man o man was it great. Reservations on a Friday night were a MUST! The Wine Club is a great idea, wish more places would do clubs like that The fact the place is built on a wine premise meant no screaming kids, I LOVE THAT!! The tables are very close together which is great because it gives the place a real European feel. The flat bread was fantastic!! No place is 100% perfect, the desert menu is a bit skimpy with small portions, and the side area with the couch for just wine drinking is strange and doesn't fit the main dining area feel
(5)
Ray B.
Very nice- fresh food, solid service. Only knock might be the price point. Appreciate the expansive menu, the best I could find in that neighborhood.
(4)
lttlod i.
I love this place! I've been here about 10 times, probably more, and I've pretty much gotten great service along with flavorful amazing food. I've had several items on the menu but do admit to sticking to what I like for the most part. I also like that this menu changes with the seasons, I think I have that right. It doesn't change completely but they add and replace a few things. Food: I've had the burger, of course, with the homemade ranch sauce and ruffle chips. It's a childhood fave of the owner. Last night I also tried the pastrami burger with sauted onions and swiss cheese. Amazing!! I know my pastrami and let me tell you that this was fantastic. I didn't even need the burger part, just a big hunk of pastrami mmmmm. Porcetta (sp?): also amazing and decedent! sooo filling but rich and pork just pork everywhere! I think the owner/chef won an award for this one. Tried my friends buffalo mac and cheese along with truffle mushroom shells sooooooooo good! I typically order the pork ragu flatbread along with the wedge salad that I highly recommend! I sub the blue cheese for fontina and it's soo good. Went for brunch the other week and ordered one of the eggs benedict, not the benedict but the other option with the thin ham. Amazing and rich. Like I said, literally everything this place serves just hits the spot and its all pretty reasonable. several weeks ago I had a 12 person bday party there. Jordan took great care of us and we all had a great time, especially me! Their wine selection is very good although I just refer to my friend who knows wine so I have only had good experiences with the wine they serve. I love that this place is up the street from me and that the owner lives in the neighborhood. It's just what this area needs. The owner/chef also comes by to check on us and is friendly. Atmosphere: this place is always busy! make a reservation, seriously. The patio is our fave! They made a good decision moving the giant booth and replacing it with more high top tables. I think most of the place is now high top tables. Good call! This is basically my go to place. It's the first place my friends and I think to go when we head out to eat. It's consistently awesome and always a great experience. I'll be back for sure. I'll probably be back in a couple of days : P
(5)
Craig R.
Former bakery converted to restaurant. The space is very small and you feel everybody is on top of you; if you are waiting for a table your usually standing in the line of traffic which makes it difficult to have a conversation since you looking over your shoulder most of the time. Food is average and the customer service is poor. In fact, the last time I dined there, I was asked by the manager (or host??) if we could move over to the bar (w/ no seating) so they could seat a table of 4. This probably wouldn't have been a big deal but the fact I just took my last bite and still had a 1/2 bottle of wine after 45 min... it was very lame to ask.
(1)
Shannon P.
Went on feb 23' 2013, had the roasted chicken Alfredo. It was very good. The sauce was very creamy and rich with a lot of chicken. Great service I think his name was Will or Bill, anyway he was very helpful with my groups wine selection. We will go back. It was kind of noisy but the Iowa state v Kansas game was getting ready to start.
(4)
Chase A.
Great first date atmosphere. Order a bottle of vino and had the Lobster Poutine to start. Could have been a little heavier on the lobster and gravy, but was still great. For the main course I had the 4 Pork Gnocchi and was very pleased, although I left the restaurant still pretty hungry. Overall, great place and am looking forward to my next visit.
(4)
Customer D.
We tried Louie's Restaurant Week special....intended to get people to try them and become loyal customers....big strike out. Our appetizer was inedible. First the manager said he would take it off the bill, then later came back and said he couldn't do that. One entree was pretty good (shrimp and grits). The 4-pork gnocchi seemed to be missing any discernable pork at all...it was a big disappointment. The dessert was utterly unremarkable. $50 + tax + tip = $60 totally wasted for poor to mediocre food and a server who didn't really have a clue.
(1)
Jessica L.
I made my first trip to Louie's Wine Dive last night and I can't say that I am eagerly planning my next one. The ambiance is fine although it is a bit tacky to see the cooler/freezer door as you are sitting at the bar or relaxing in the pseudo-lounge area. Most of the staff was friendly - Tony at the door was welcoming and our bartender, Nick, was fantastic. The owner/chef, Jason, introduced himself which is a touch I appreciate. If only he was that nice to his staff... the set-up of the Wine Dive is such that bar patrons and many people in the dining area are able to see some and hear all of what is going on in the kitchen. Last night, that meant that we were subjected to hearing the owner continuously reprimand his cooks as if he is Beaverdale's answer to Gordon Ramsay. It was really a sad situation because not only did his staff have to be treated in this way, it was done in public so we had to watch them try to stay calm and on task. I am sure some people were probably nervous as to how their food was being prepared in such a hostile environment. The menu is fairly ambitious and for the restaurant's second week of being opened, I think everyone expects a reasonable amount of time to pass to allow for proper food preparation. It seemed that the owner was being unreasonably mean to his kitchen staff and we didn't hear of any errors except that he felt they were taking too long. If the wait time is too long then perhaps they need to do more things ahead of time, have more cooking space or even jumping in and helping and leading by example. I spoke with some of the diners and they each said they enjoyed the food and they didn't wait any longer than they expected. This guy needs to realize that he isn't running a burger joint - it appears that even though the word "dive" is in the title, he is trying to establish this venue as a fairly classy restaurant. And this means he needs to put his temper in check and learn how to properly coach and motivate his employees or quickly find a manager to do it for him. Two of the guys sitting at the bar next to us made a similar comment to one of the servers. His response was that the owner has to yell at them like that so they learn and he bets that the next time, they won't work the same way as they did tonight. My reply to that is the owner will be lucky if the staff even returns to work. There is no justification for that behavior and it is unfortunate that a server would reply that way to a customer's comment. The Wine Dive is young but if it wants to become a cornerstone of my Beaverdale community, this is the one thing that will prevent it from doing so. As a customer, I have a very hard time convincing myself to return and spend my money to support tyrants regardless the high quality product and customer service.
(3)
Lim K.
Tried shrimp and grits. It had good flavor; however, it was runny and was not the dish I expected. It was more like cheese soup with eggs. Two stars for food and five stars for service.
(3)
Mitch L.
I am from Omaha and met a person here from Cedar Rapids on a suggestion from a friend. I can tell you one thing, this place would be worth the drive back to Des Moines just to eat here. I put in a reservation on the suggestion of a friend for a Wednesday night meetup. The reservation was a good idea, because this place was packed at 7:15. I saw a few people complained about the decorations, but I thought they were completely fine and fit what the establishment is drying to be. Onto the food, what we all care about the most. My partner for the night and I had the bruschetta sampler platter. This was an amazing dish. It comes with 4 types of bruschetta: steak and blue cheese, tomato basil, mushroom and sweet peper, and some kind of oriental chicken. All four were great, but the standout was the steak and blue cheese. I could have ate a plate of these as my meal for the night. The tomato basil was a very very close second. As for dinner, I had the Lobster and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese. This dish should have been called "Wonders on my Tongue," because that is simply what it was. Imagine buttery, cheesey, lobster, shrimp goodness and multiply that flavor by 100. Only then can you begin to understand how good this dish was. Simply put, it is worth the drive and every penny of the $18 that was spent on this dish. The dish was so good, it overshadowed my partner for the nights dish of shrimp and grits. The shrimp and grits were well cooked and flavorful. There was a strong presence of bacon in the dish that brought it up another level. This was a great dish in its own-right, but just tough to give it props when it is next to something as wonderful as the lobster and shrimp Mac.
(5)
Gigi F.
Wow! This place was AMAZING! It was packed - even on a Wednesday. A coworker and I stopped in for dinner. We were greeted warmly and shown to the bar. The bartender was so attentive and helpful (and very attractive!). We had the Lobster Frittes and the Mussel appetizers. A generous portion of mussels, well prepared, well seasoned and delicious. The lobster dish was gourmet comfort food, so Good. For the entrees, we had the Porchetta, a stuffed marinated pork loin so tender it fell apart with a fork, on a bed of roasted root veggies - cooked to perfection - not too hard, not too soft. We also had the Lobster and Gulf Shrimp Mac and Cheese. As great as that sounds, it tasted even better. For dessert, fresh, light pear pastry with fresh ice cream. Oh my goodness! If I lived in Des Moines, I'd eat there every other day!
(5)
Misty H.
Was dissappointed when I saw the bakery was gone that used to be in this location but love wine so out of curiosity I wandered in. I was simply going to look at the menu since I was wearing jean shorts and a tank top and the place looked nice with cherry wood tables and chairs with bottles of wine on the back wall next to the kitchen although the patio didn't look open yet. The wall in the back could use some color or more design but I liked the place overall. As soon as I walked in and asked for a menu I felt welcomed by the employees ease and smile and so I looked around and most people there seemed to be wearing casual clothes. I was kind of hungry so I sat down at the bar and noticed on the menu a cobb salad. I love cobb salad so thought it wouldn't hurt to go ahead and try it but I am kind of picky as I love the service and cobb salad at Flemings. John the guy behind the bar introduced himself and handed me a wine menu so I thought what the heck I'll go ahead and get a glass. Had a great glass of Pinot Noir he let me sample first .The salad came out it was really good, I prefer more blue cheese but I was still impressed, the green goddess dressing was yummy and the salad was cold and crisp and on such a hot day it was perfect. A lady walked in doing the same thing just looking in curiously and John welcomed her with the same kind smile so she asked for a menu just to look at and as I was sitting at the bar next to where she stood she asked me if the salad was good. I told her it was so she sat a few seats down an ordered the salmon salad. Her and I ended up chatting it up while she was waiting for her salad. The owner Jason came over and checked to see how we were doing and talked with us for a bit. I asked Jason about the patio and he said they were going to have it open soon they had just had some paperwork they had to get done first. I watched him go back in the kitchen and work on food preparation with his staff. It was nice to be able to see my food being made, you can see the cooks from the room which really put my mind at ease. I have gone several times as it is nearby all my errands and have loved the food. The second time I came Jason recalled me right away with a smile chatted for a bit even though I could tell he was busy and invited me to come back again. The staff all at one point checked on me at the bar each time I go. I feel so at home every time I come, it has quickly become my new favorite place to eat. I brought my teenager in to try the food the last night and she had the salmon salad since I told her the lady I sat next to had loved hers and for dessert my daughter had the graham cracker smores which has a small fire in a metal holder to roast the marshmallows she thought it was awesome. I had the flat iron steak it was so good and they let me switch out the fries for the quinoa as I am a bit of a health nut. Nick and John are so much fun behind the bar and it was packed for a tuesday night. Every employee I have met there has been helpful and so nice. I have been a part of many a soft opening as I moved around and waitressed for 15 years and the employees and owners seem to get along no different than any other soft opening. If anything they seem to be happy and joking when things die down and serious and down to business when work needs to get done to make sure the customers come first. My daughter asked if we could go eat there again this weekend already. Yeah we'll be back.
(5)
katherine l.
Went to Louie's last night for some drinks and had an ok time. I will venture back to try the food but might wait a few weeks until they work out some of the kinks. I felt they were pretty proud of some of their wine prices. I also ordered a Louie Douie Martini and it was pretty lack luster. Very tasteless and mostly a bitter taste. The ambiance was a little lack luster. I know it had dive in the name but the green and mauve reminded me of the 80's. We were seated close to the restroom and all I could smell was bathroom cleaner. Which I'm thankful for a clean bathroom, but was a bit over powering. We ordered a cheese plate to share and when our server brought it out he had no idea what cheese was what and had to call someone over. Don't you think you might have asked the kitchen before you brought it out? I think it'll be an ok place but their staff needs a bit more education (at least the waiter we had), and if I'm going to go spend 50-100 bucks on after drinks alone (for 4 people we had two drinks each), I was expecting a bit more polished experience.
(3)
Kris D.
I thought I'd update that I've been back to this restaurant twice. I will say, the food is just so freaking good! The service has definitely improved with time. I will continue to be a repeat customer, and I recommend it to my friends.
(4)
Brian R.
My first visit to Louie's. The other reviews helped me decide to go here. Went with my wife and had some good food. So overall the service was good, the food was good and its a pretty nice environment in there. My only complaint is that you are sitting right on top of one another at the tables, or at least where I was sitting. So maybe try and go with a group instead of just 2.
(4)
Alicia H.
We came for brunch on a Sunday morning and sat outside on the patio, which was lovely. Relaxing and spacious! The food was solidly tasty - we got the Harvest Eggs Benedict and the honey butter chicken sandwich. Sadly the oven wasn't working so that took a few options away that we were interested in. And our server was a sweet kid who didn't seem to know much about the place he was working which provided us some laughs but wasn't impressive. Overall I would recommend and we'll be back!
(4)
Doug L.
Nice outdoor seating and a great night to sit outside. The wine and beer list was nice As a vegetarian there are only a couple choices. I looked at the menu and was going to get mushroom ravioli. The waiter came over and gave us 4 or 5 items there were out Of. I understand once in a while having One thing sold out but at 630p they shouldn't be sold out of that much. So I look at the menu again and decide on a Caesar salad. We order and 'oh o forgot to tell you, we are out of that too'. So I get a different salad. It was well prepared but with too much dressing I went with my daughter and son in law who had been before And really liked it. So maybe I just caught them on a bad night but if hadn't been for their positive thoughts I would never go back
(2)
Nicole V.
I have been to Louie's Wine Dive a handful of times. I've had 5-star worthy visits, and 3-star worthy visits (hence the 4 stars). The service can be inconsistent -- except at the bar! The last few times we just sit at the bar and have a great experience each time. The bartenders have been able to recommend wine that fits my mood and my food. The gnocchi is great - several variations of pork with crispy gnochi. I also really like the quinoa/arugula side salad. Today I had the tiramisu and it was awesome too. I recommend reservations during dinner on Friday and Saturday. They are on OpenTable.
(4)
Liz A.
I'm a little hit or miss on this place. Some of the pasta dishes I have had are good but maybe could use some additional seasonings? But they have my favorite salad in town - Emily Apple Harvest Salad. It's so fresh and good. I also like the flatbreads. They are always friendly with good service. It's good to see the restaurant doing well in that location.
(4)
Patrick T.
Louie your place is not a dive at all? It's actually really nice! I love your high top tables, your huge salads, and if I was an avid Wine drinker you might have to call me your new roommate! Because your selection of the grape goods is pretty remarkable! But have no fear beer drinkers, they got that stuff too! They also have an awesome patio for summer sun, and sipping. And the service is delightful, looking forward to Louie inviting me back over for more!
(4)
Donna S.
My review is for the weekend brunch. The bottomless mimosa menu caught my eye. And we were meeting friends for breakfast. This little neighbor spot in the uptown shopping center did not disappoint. A brief brunch menu - about 12 items. A Bloody Mary and mimosa menu $6 a glass or $12 for bottomless. Service was great, coffee and water always full. Food came out hot and had great flavor. Brunch prices $8-$12. I would like to come back and try their dinner and see the wine list.
(4)
Ashley B.
The food is great, but the service is not great. I'm normally pretty understanding with busy days, but not getting refills and waiting to the point of going to the host station to pay for our bill is too much. We probably won't be back, which is too bad because the food is damn good.
(2)
Jason S.
Went here for brunch on a rainy Sunday morning. They had some very unique breakfast entrees. I had the mac and cheese omelet with potatoes and my dining partner had the bourbon french toast with a grapefruit mimosa. Both were delicious and the portions were great! The dive is nice and the prices are very reasonable. I'd go back again - for brunch or lunch or dinner. They have bottomless mimosas during brunch and it's a good deal!
(4)
Tom T.
Horrible customer service! Traveled 3 hours to meet friends. Hyped up Louis's. Looked forward to our evening. Entered the bar and was told to seat ourselves. We did on the outdoor patio. Server came to our table and told us we couldn't sit at a 2 top as a foursome as it blocked the aisle. Aisles on an outdoor patio!?! Give me a break! Ruined our evening. Stupid rule. We will never return . Off to a more hospitable place.
(1)
Brandy V.
Our waiter was incredible. Our food was insane. The bone on the 28ounce ribeye was larger then my arm. Everything was very Tasty.
(5)
Ashley T.
To me, Louie's has a casual, somewhat ambivalent appearance from the outside, but when you get in and check out the menu, it's impressive. I've been for dinner and recommend it, also just for drinks with friends, or most recently my husband and I just had drinks on the patio with the hummus appetizer as an afterthought, and it was very good. Light, but filling. The street is a little noisy, but this is a great patio for taking the opportunity to get outside on a nice day!
(4)
Gerald Z.
Ok..this place is awesome. Took my wife here on date night. It was packed on a friday night at 8 as it should be. They were so nice though and sat us at the bar and we enjoyed a few cocktails while we waited for our table. The bartenders were very nice and took the time to explain some of the different cocktails to us. the food was tremendous, unfortunately they had run out of the pig stix when we arrived but we ordered the cheese flight and pate to start...yum. great mix of cheeses and a cherry/jalapeno jam. My wife then had a gnocchi with pork ragout and i had the fish and chips. the world stopped when i had their fish and chips.... WOW...these are probably the best fish and chips I have EVER had. Crisp outside, flakey inside not greasy at all. The fish was fresh and moist. I could have ordered four of those. that's the only complaint i had is that there wasn't enough. My wife and i devoured the fish and chips...wow...can't say enough about those. I never thought there would be better fish and chips than those i get at the royal mile, but I have to say these are BETTER. Much better in fact. We finished with a chocolate chip cookie sundae each which was unremarkable but satisfying. this is a great joint, love this place. ORDER THE FISH AND CHIPS.
(4)
Steven S.
Great food and fairly priced. Was not to sure about the place when I walked in. My perception changed very quickly. The service was wonderful and the wine and food fantastic
(5)
Lisa W.
I've eaten at Louie's three times and overall each experience has been great. I've had a seafood dish every time, crab cakes, scallops, lobster salad sandwhich, and they've all been very good. I enjoy the location as a neighborhood restaurant and the decor and atmosphere. Most times the service has been fast and efficient, although the time we were there for brunch my friend waited quite a long time for refills on her bottomless Mimosa. They also have a very good selection of craft beers and local craft beers. The prices are reasonable. I highly recommend Louie's to my friends and family.
(4)
Michael W.
This may turn into 5 stars when I come back, because I am definitely coming back. I had the Diablo shrimp pasta, very good, but very one dimensional. My wife's Sinatra burger was a work of beef art. So good. The squeaky cheese appetizer was also good. I am specifically coming back for the shrimp and grits!
(4)
Erin H.
I'd give it a 3.5 if I could. Usually it's a solid 4 for food, but service can be a little spotty. We have either really good luck with the service or just so-so. Great wine selection. Lobster mac and cheese is to die for. We went there recently for brunch which was good but not quite as good as the dinners we've had there. All around good restaurant choice in Des Moines. Be prepared to wait on the weekends.
(4)
Tom C.
Twenty years ago this was the location of my childhood comic book store. I moved away and the retail winds shifted, and the location apparently went through a few incarnations. On a recent nostalgia tour I found myself standing outside like a dog outside its dead owner's bedroom, waiting for him to emerge and looking uncertainly at the nearest human, not understanding that what it once loved is dead and gone forever. I decided to go in to see if there was any nostalgia to be had in the walls and fixtures, and as I entered I was stunned to see a thriving classy and hip restaurant and bar. From the outside it looked like a liquor store. On the inside it looked nothing like a comic book store or liquor store. The atmosphere was really very hip and fun, and the service (I are at the bar, which used to be a wall separating the comic racks from the RPGs and war game collectibles) was really fantastic. Friendly and fun. I was given a wooden bottle puzzle to play with and enjoyed talking to the staff. My only complaint is that none of them seemed at all interested in the location's past as a neighborhood comic book shop. Any genuine follow-up at all would've automatically earned a massive tip. As for the food, I ordered the salmon salad. The salad was fine, but the salmon was overcooked and mostly inedible. There also wasn't enough goat cheese. 4 stars for a great atmosphere and that particular feeling of bittersweet longing only an aged comic book/RPG fan raised in the 80s could understand.
(4)
Andy S.
My girlfriend ate here a few months ago. The place looked nice, the food was good, and the server was very friendly. Price was about what you would expect. I forget what we ordered, but one of the dishes came with this rectangular potato thing which was made up of very thin potato slices, and was absolutely awesome. My g/f and I have been thinking of coming back and just ordering wine and multiple rectangular potato thing sides.
I don't drink but my partner in crime does love fancy wine so this a logical place to go. It's not a dive to start off, I'm sure you might get many visuals in your head hearing the word dive. But it's nice inside, I promise. They have a very nice menu, many unique dishes that you can pair a good glass of wine up with and with almost everything under $20 too. I had the pan roasted Chicken, it was a good dish. But they have so much more to try! This is a place I've been meaning to go back to since the selection is so appealing. With all that said......"Dive in"
(4)
Mary H.
Walking in I felt a bit self-conscious in my scrubs; the atmosphere seems to call for fancier attire (most of the other guests were all doodled up for midweek lunch? Perhaps they don't have jobs/school.) After the initial awkward feeling everything was great. Our server, Josh/John (I really need to work on remembering names) made the meal even more enjoyable. Him being in a tshirt made me feel more comfortable. Great sense of humor and left us alone as appropriate. Pesto chicken flatbread came out and I thought, "I won't be able to eat all that," but it was so darn good I finished it. No regrets! My friend had the margarita flatbread and confessed the same sentiments at the end. I don't know how lavosh is supposed to be, so I can't really judge it; this serves as the base for the flatbread and is light/crispy so you don't feel all weighed down (or guilty) ... Why I decided to take a pregnant lady to a place with "wine" in the name-- I'm not sure. But I will most definitely be returning for a happy hour where aforementioned flatbreads are $5. Can't wait to try to the wine.
(4)
Koby A.
Amazing brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. Had the crab cake benedict and my husband had the burger. Both were fantastic. Also tried the various unique mimosas from their bottomless offerings. My fave was the one with grapefruit juice.
(5)
Thomas S.
Amazing food. Fantastic experience. Reccomended -- Gooey Louie. Mussels. The app with shrimp and French fries. Loved it.
(5)
Michelle R.
This place is a true delight; from the adult beverage selection to the food! It's fantastic! The menu is delightful, seasonal, and delicious. The prices are reasonable for the fantastic quality of the food that 8 served. The server was knowledgeable, courteous, and more than willing to give excellent suggestions. I will most definitely look forward to returning here for their four course dinner in the hopefully not too distant future!
(5)
Kelly S.
I love the premise of this restaurant and so badly wanted it to be a go-to spot. Unfortunately, both the food and service has been hit or miss. On my first visit, a fellow diner ordered chicken - that came out visibly raw in the middle. The kitchen threw the same piece of chicken back on the grill and then sent it out (after everyone else at the table had finished their meal) overcooked. Management seemed annoyed when they had to deal with the situaion and offered the table a free dessert. On my second visit, I sat at the bar with a friend and had a salad (afraid to order food) and drinks. No problems, but nothing fantastic either. The bartender did seem knowledgeable about the wine selection. On my last and FINAL visit, I stopped in for a bit of chocolate and a glass of red wine. My partner was having dinner. BOTH The chocolate dessert and the wine I ordered were out. I was offered a different wine which I was pleased with and ordered a salted caramel dessert. The dessert was terrible and so salty I couldn't eat it. My dinner date was also disappointed with her meal. Overall, for the money you spend and the prices they charge, I believe the food is subpar. It's too bad really because, as I said before, I really wanted the place to be a smash. I hear the brunch is good. If I was to visit again it would be for brunch, but I really don't see that happening.
Must try the Trip to Jalisco wow this drink is so good and spicy Yum and the Shrimp Diablo or lobster and shrimp mac and cheese to of the best meals for lunch!
(5)
Diane B.
I really enjoy Louies for dinner. Interesting menu options- something for everyone! The waitstaff I'd very knowledgable about wines and wine/ food pairings. Sean has never steered us wrong in his recommendations of wine or daily specials. It's a neighborhood place with " downtown" class!! I REALLY recommend the Lobster Poutine- it's Heaven!!
(4)
Katie H.
This place is excellent! Great environment for a date night or just a few drinks with friends. I had the Shrimp Diablo and it was fantastic (made good leftovers too). Their wine list is one of the best in Des Moines. The wait staff is very friendly. It's a bit crowded so get there plenty early. I got there at 6:30 on a Tuesday and it was swarming with people. But it appeared that many were just enjoying a post-work glass of wine. Plenty of seating but I would recommend reservations to be on the safe side. I will definitely be back!
(4)
Darien G.
I really don't get the hype. The service has been sort of spotty the times I've been, and I cannot recall a single time where anybody in my party "raved" about the food. Oh, and wouldn't you think that a place that calls itself a WINE dive would have the wine you want to order in stock? This has happened twice to my group where a choice wasn't available or (when ordering a bottle) the vintage was wrong. I'm not slamming the place as much as it might seem like I am. I just don't think it's worth more than three stars for the prices they charge and the product you get. I can think of many places I'd rather go if I'm shelling out $70+ per person for food & drink. The positive would be that enough people think it is a cool place, so lots of beautiful people will likely be there sharing the space with you.
(3)
Alison M.
Went here for an early dinner around 5:30 with a reservation. Place was pretty quiet yet they sat us at a tiny two-top table behind the corner of the room right where the wait staff congregate to pick up their bar orders. Our waitress forgot about us since our table was hidden a bit, and we had to wait a while, during which time the bartender spilled a glass of red wine that splattered on the floor and ultimately on us a bit. Ordered shrimp & grits which were very bland. My guest ordered the apple harvest salad which was very good though. Just wasn't impressed enough to return for another try.
(3)
Bradley S.
I visit my family only once or twice a year so scheduling quality time together is important. Louie's was suggested by my sister and as she told me about the food and something called lobster poutine I knew I had to go! The entire place was even better than my sister described! The fries with lobster sauce dish (known as lobster poutine) was not on the menu this day, but the chef made it for us anyway. Wow! Chunks of portobello mushrooms, tasty pieces of lobster and other foods that melt in your mouth. And the fries soaked in the sauce sounds bad... But believe me it works. The fries became a salty noodle almost and that is when I decided I needed a glass of wine even though I had not planned on it. Love the wine selection that went well with our main dishes. The Sinatra burger and diablo pasta. Both fantastic. Make sure you like spicy food if you order the diablo. We do! And the burger was different, tasty and great with a red wine. Our waiter even offered a free tasting of a wine that had just come in. Oh my gosh this was so unexpected and the waiter talked to us like he was our best pal. He even offered to take our photo in front of the large wine bottle painting on the wall. Did I mention the unique decor that is a hidden surprise compared to the outside front with the word "dive" on the sign? Thanks for giving us such a memorable lunch experience! Louie's Wine Dive is Louie's Wine Devine!
(5)
Greg S.
Not sure if I will give this place a second shot. Love wine but the brunch was a total train wreck. Space - Cool design but tables are very close together, I am fairly slender and small in stature and I felt like I was spill into the table behind me. Every time I moved, I found myself apologizing to those at the table behind me for bumping them. Service - Staff was friendly but food took an hour. I have little patience for slow food service when it comes to breakfast. This is eggs and toast, not a 5 course affair. My friend's food had to be wrapped before his first bite because he had a bus to catch. No apologies from the staff or offers to comp any of the food. Food - If I have to wait an hour + for eggs and toast after placing my order, it better be the best eggs I have ever had in my life. Sadly, there was little redemption in the food department. 3 ways to sum up the food; pricey, over-seasoned and low quality. Maybe they should just stick with the wine. One bright spot, after paying, the staff finally figured out they needed to do something so they gave me 3 coupons for free wine on my next visit. So I may be back but believe me I am not spending a dime over the 3 free glasses of wine.
(1)
Geri D.
Very crowded way to many tables packed in there. Food was good....not a large menu. Wine small pour....14.00.....wasn't impressed. Probably won't be back.
(2)
Hildie L.
Will need to try again.... Service errors didn't make this place easy to review. I will be back!
(2)
Cliff K.
Try the fish and chips fresh lightly battery wild cod with champagne and rice flour batter and shaved brussel sprouts red cabbage slaw with hand cut Fries
(4)
Nick K.
Picking a rating for this restaurant after eating here for the first time was quite hard. The atmosphere was normal, the service was great, and the food was both good and terrible. I decided to get the peppercorn burger and quinoa while my fiancee opted for flatbread pizza. The pizza was to the point and delicious. My meal, however, was a disappointment. Not only was the quinoa (listed on the menu merely as "quinoa") served cold in a salad of arugula and strawberries, but the burger was a disaster. Everything was prepared correctly, but the thing just tasted like a hodge-podge of ingredients that didn't compliment one another. I'll give it another shot, but overall, the restaurant didn't stand out strongly in either direction.
(3)
Jerusha E.
We went to Louie's for brunch one Sunday and were pleased. Most of the breakfast options are egg based, but they also offer a few more lunch-ier options. The chicken apple salad was tasty- crunchy apples, fresh cheese and warm chicken. We didn't have drinks, but the menu looked solid.
(4)
Caroline M.
Don't be a tool. Make a reservation! They were packed on a recent Sat night before 6pm. I dined here super early style when my parents were in town and we had a good time. I kinda wished we were seated in a better location. We were at a table in the corner near the restrooms and cases of extra wine stacked up behind us. Not super glam, but whatev. Our server was okay. He suggested a wine and brought me a sample (super tasty!) however I chose a different vino in the end. We did a bottle of sparkling--Cristalino Rose Brut, which is something I've had before. It was $30-ish, so not too bad. Very crisp, dry and super bubbly. And pink--gotta love rose! I went for a salad (shut up, it sounded good!) and flatbread. I did the apple, bacon, goat cheese, pecan salad--told you. And it was full of dark leafy greens, which was great. The bacon seemed a little bit overcooked, like super hard and crunchy. Hrrm.. but the flatbread was spot on. Portobello, balsamic caramelized onions, and Maytag Blue on a cracker-y thin bread. My mom went with the ratatouille, which was a mix of tasty veg on top of quinoa. This actually inspired her to pick up some bulk quinoa at Whole Foods Market the next day ;) And I snagged several bites of my dad's roast jerked chicken, which was also served with quinoa. We passed on dessert because I had a homemade banana cake waiting at my apt. Overall it was a tasty dinner, and liked seeing a fair amount of local additions to the menu, like the Maytag Blue cheese, La Quercia prosciutto, to name a few.
(4)
Mary G.
Agree with most that Louie's is great. Good wine, great staff and nice atmosphere. My only criticism is they need "finger" foods for those of us stopping on our way home from work. I still have to make dinner when I get home so need just enough of something to soak up the wine. Great menu, but I don't need an entree. Maybe partner with South Union bread and the Cheese Shop for some tasting platters'
(4)
Miki B.
Good food, service and atmosphere. We go there frequently before concerts and have always had good experience. Outside area is fin during warm months.
(4)
Megan H.
I've been eagerly anticipating my first visit to Louie's Wine Dive since it opened earlier this year. The reviews on Yelp have been great. I love good wine! I love good food! Surely i would love Louie's Wine Dive, right? Wrong. For starters, there's the restaurant itself. Previous reviewers are right; they repainted the walls, turned the old ordering counter into a bar, and shoved a bunch of booths and high-top tables into the room. We were seated at the high-tops, which are so close together you may as well think of them as long communal tables. I frequently found myself sharing personal space with another party's server as she stood to the left of my barstool and leaned on the table next to my plate in order to speak with the party next to us. However, I can put up with just about anything in pursuit of a good meal. The ambiance wouldn't be a problem if the food was good. Sadly, it was anything but. We started with a house wine, which was fine, and oohed and aahed over the promising-sounding menu. Everything looked so good! We decided to start with the queso fundido with Mexican cheese and chorizo. It was shockingly bland - like we'd been served a bowl of melted supermarket cheese dotted with a few small pieces of chorizo. There was no flavor whatsoever - no heat, no spice, no nothing. Just a plate of melted cheese served with thick bready pitas. The only good part was the chorizo, and there were just a few sparse pieces scattered across the cheese... very disappointing. However, we didn't want to rush to judgement; perhaps our main courses would be better! We pushed aside the cheese and waited. I'd ordered the shrimp and grits, and Charlie had ordered the pork gnocchi. Now, I love shrimp and grits. I've had excellent shrimp and grits in several restaurants across the country. So I feel pretty confident saying these were TERRIBLE shrimp and grits. My grits were the consistency of glue; my shrimp were chewy and overcooked. Again, everything was just so bland - like the chef was cooking without herbs, spices, or seasoning of any kind. It was as though the kitchen staff barely knew what they were doing. Charlie's pork gnocchi were similarly bland. What was going on here??? This place was supposed to be so good! The menu looked awesome! We had high hopes for this place, but left extremely disappointed and unlikely to return. It's possible the vast, ambitious menu means the kitchen staff has to know so many dishes that the quality suffers. Or maybe this is the type of place where you just show up for the wine and some snacks. I can't explain it. I am truly mystified at all the positive comments after eating such bland food in a bland setting. As I was writing this review, I learned that Louie's opened a second location in Kansas City this November. It seems very likely to me that their better staff and chefs may have focused their efforts on the KC location, neglecting Des Moines in the process. It's the only way I can reconcile all these five-star reviews with what was, generously speaking, a two-star experience for me.
(2)
Chad M.
Our first trip here was excellent. Great service - loved the Pork Gnocci and the wine recommendations were very enjoyable.
(5)
Cj J.
We ate cheese flight, Gazpacho soup, moules frites mussels , vegetable ratatouille and fish & chips with acacia red wine blend to drink . Out Waiter was the best ask for dewayne he was great !!! I will De finely come back it was a great time of good & wine
(5)
Adam P.
Ok I will just rip it off like a band-aid...I will get the worst of it over quickly. I think the decor is bad. It's not terrible, but could use a professional touch. If it has had a professional touch they defiantly are not king Midas, so they don't need to worry about turning their loved ones into gold. What this place is doing right is fantastic food served up with a reasonable price, and deserts that make you hear angels sing. Let's be honest here, that is why you go somewhere not the look, but the food. I went there for dinner one night, and had friendly well informed service. A few kinks in the knowledge of the wines but it takes a while to train a staff on wine knowledge. I had a flat iron stake and it melted in my mouth, served with a delicious gravy and tasty fries. The next morning I returned for brunch and had the best Corn Pork Hash i have ever had in Des Moines. (Please not the corn Pork is done so in house). No I did not screw that up I said PORK! The two poached eggs when broke open covered the hash, and gave it that perfect velvet texture. The carrots cooked into the has added just a hint of sweetness to the dish. BEST HASH IN DES MOINES!!! Stop reading go.....go now.........eat the delicious hash. This is the first time in years that I did not need to use the salt and pepper on my table. The food was perfectly seasoned for my liking. I will say that I could see some people (who are not use to their food having flavor) would think it is a tad on the salty side. I really believe that this friendly corporate chef, turned restaurant owner, has struck gold in a golden neighborhood. I do mean friendly, and if you dine here you will most likely be greeted by the chef at some point in the evening. You can tell he has a love for food, and wants to make sure his customers are enjoying his passion. I miss the old IBC that use to be housed here, but they could not have opened a better replacement. It is so great to see another really solid restaurant open in the area. This would be a great place for a first date to having a nice dinner with friends and family. They are working on getting the patio running, because of a snag they ran into with the city. Yes you heard me correctly another fantastic patio in Des Moines. I for one can not wait to enjoy sunday brunch out there. p.s. they do have a kids menu.
(5)
Vicki H.
Enjoyed time with friends. Fairly small and crowed. We and reservations for 5:30 on a Friday and bald we did. Food was good and a good wine selection.
(4)
Brooke P.
I am liking this place more and more each time I go! Meomi from Monterey, Ca is such a good glass of pinot nior, also the bruschetta is so good - it is more of a sampler bruschetta with 4 different types - really good!! Overall I really like their menu. Brunch is also very tasty!
(5)
Alexis R.
Everything I imagined. It'll make me sound like a total wine-o, but I have been jonesing to go to this place since before I moved to Des Moines. It did not disappoint. A girlfriend and I waltzed in an hour before close and were greeted so kindly. They put up with us until we toodled out well after posted closing time. Not only did they put up with us, they conversed with us, suggested wines, and generally were totally welcoming. So impressed. Can't wait to give more of the wine list and the menu a try. Go! But not when I'm there. Don't want a crowd all the time now. Let's space this out a bit, people.
(5)
Erika H.
Let me start off with overall a great experience and could have easily been 5 stars. Bartenders were courteous and spot on. Server was helpful in aiding our selections we split everything to try more. We started with the Calamari then the large apple harvest salad (both were delicious!) and finished with the 4 pork gnocchi which was also good. We decided against dessert and once that decision was made we were brought our checks. The server stopped by to pick them up but we hadn't put payment in she then informed us that she had been cut and would be back to pick up the checks. Which was done quickly after putting our cards in. The ran them we signed them and she picked them up without thanking us or stating should we need anything so and so could help us. Out the door she went. Funny thing is the friend that I was with used to be restaurant managers together.
(4)
Christine T.
My husband and I had our first visit to Louie's this week, and it won't be our last. We stopped in for a late breakfast on a Saturday and found friendly, efficient wait staff and a great menu. Both of us ordered off the breakfast menu (it was 10 am) and our dishes were inventive and delicious. My husband asked to look at the dinner menu for fun and when he found an appetizer that sounded good (red pepper humus) he was able to order it as well! The menu is eclectic, American food with a nod to NOLA - oysters, shrimp and grits and croque madame. And where else in Des Moines can you get Lobster poutine? I can't wait to try it. It is a rare occurrence when I find a menu and I want to try almost everything on it, but I am going to try. I have read comments about the decor. Frankly, I don't get it. The seating is comfortable and the wall color warmed the room. It is certainly preferable to the modern concrete floor, metal table, operating room ambiance some of the newer restaurants. Try Louie's, we want to keep a quality restaurant here in our neighborhood, just don't tell all your friends, I want to be able to get a table too.
(5)
Kristin S.
My boyfriend and I decided to try this for the first time before attending a lecture at Drake U. The staff was super friendly (and even seemed to be having fun while working) and the setting was comfortable and lovely at the same time. Our food arrived quickly - a salad and a burger - both fantastic. We informed our server that we needed to leave quickly, so he was prompt with the check. We will totally be going back.
(5)
Jennifer W.
I'm a big fan. The place is just right down the street from me, which is awesome. We've needed a new local in the Beav for awhile. It is usually really busy, so you definitely want to call ahead for a reservation or to put your name in. My husband and I usually just sit at the bar when it's packed. You have a fun, talkative, crowd but can get some privacy too. The food has yet to disappoint. We've been for breakfast, lunch, appetizers and dinner. I haven't had anything I didn't like. Some of my favs have been: the flatbread, the lobster poutin, lobster mac and cheese (duh!), the cuban sandwich, and oddly the salmon caesar salad. Also, the cocktails are pretty good- mostly classic cocktails which I appreciate, some with minor variations. Obviously they have a good wine list. Lastly, the service has been really awesome every time we've been. I haven't seen that kind of consistency in awhile. Overall, I definitely recommend this place. It's casual, there is range of prices on food, the drinks are flowing and the food/service is great.
(5)
Julia J.
We ate here last night, and now have a new favorite restaurant! Shannon gave us exceptional service, seating us quickly even though we were 30 min early for our reservation. The space in here is tight! We were a bit cramped in our table, but as soon as the couple next to us left, Shannon showed up to scoot the tables over and make more room. The food = fabulous. Salads and pastas did not disappoint. I had the shrimp and lobster Mac and cheese, and I can honestly say it was the best Mac and cheese I have ever eaten. The restaurant was loud, the waist staff was not the best in the world, but we felt welcome and at home. Top that off with mouth watering food at a reasonable price, and we are hooked. We are already making plans to return!
(5)
Beth Y.
Just had my first experience at Louie's for lunch. It was very good overall, with excellent service and wonderful food. I had a grilled cheese and my dining partner had the pulled pork ruben. My sandwich was very good, but next time I will ask for tomatoes to be added. That's just my preference. The fries, I must say, were sublime. Light, crispy, and perfectly cooked. My friend loved his sandwich. The wait person was very helpful and attentive, and turned off the fan which was making us a bit chilly. I am looking forward to returning, especially when the patio opens next week. p.s. someone marked this place as "dressy," which doesn't really seem fitting. I think the atmosphere is more casual than dressy, but perhaps in the evening it is fancier. Try it! It's great to have a restaurant like this in the neighborhood.
(4)
John S.
We went into this dinner very skeptical, I mean come on, the name is very random and strange. But man o man was it great. Reservations on a Friday night were a MUST! The Wine Club is a great idea, wish more places would do clubs like that The fact the place is built on a wine premise meant no screaming kids, I LOVE THAT!! The tables are very close together which is great because it gives the place a real European feel. The flat bread was fantastic!! No place is 100% perfect, the desert menu is a bit skimpy with small portions, and the side area with the couch for just wine drinking is strange and doesn't fit the main dining area feel
(5)
Ray B.
Very nice- fresh food, solid service. Only knock might be the price point. Appreciate the expansive menu, the best I could find in that neighborhood.
(4)
lttlod i.
I love this place! I've been here about 10 times, probably more, and I've pretty much gotten great service along with flavorful amazing food. I've had several items on the menu but do admit to sticking to what I like for the most part. I also like that this menu changes with the seasons, I think I have that right. It doesn't change completely but they add and replace a few things. Food: I've had the burger, of course, with the homemade ranch sauce and ruffle chips. It's a childhood fave of the owner. Last night I also tried the pastrami burger with sauted onions and swiss cheese. Amazing!! I know my pastrami and let me tell you that this was fantastic. I didn't even need the burger part, just a big hunk of pastrami mmmmm. Porcetta (sp?): also amazing and decedent! sooo filling but rich and pork just pork everywhere! I think the owner/chef won an award for this one. Tried my friends buffalo mac and cheese along with truffle mushroom shells sooooooooo good! I typically order the pork ragu flatbread along with the wedge salad that I highly recommend! I sub the blue cheese for fontina and it's soo good. Went for brunch the other week and ordered one of the eggs benedict, not the benedict but the other option with the thin ham. Amazing and rich. Like I said, literally everything this place serves just hits the spot and its all pretty reasonable. several weeks ago I had a 12 person bday party there. Jordan took great care of us and we all had a great time, especially me! Their wine selection is very good although I just refer to my friend who knows wine so I have only had good experiences with the wine they serve. I love that this place is up the street from me and that the owner lives in the neighborhood. It's just what this area needs. The owner/chef also comes by to check on us and is friendly. Atmosphere: this place is always busy! make a reservation, seriously. The patio is our fave! They made a good decision moving the giant booth and replacing it with more high top tables. I think most of the place is now high top tables. Good call! This is basically my go to place. It's the first place my friends and I think to go when we head out to eat. It's consistently awesome and always a great experience. I'll be back for sure. I'll probably be back in a couple of days : P
(5)
Craig R.
Former bakery converted to restaurant. The space is very small and you feel everybody is on top of you; if you are waiting for a table your usually standing in the line of traffic which makes it difficult to have a conversation since you looking over your shoulder most of the time. Food is average and the customer service is poor. In fact, the last time I dined there, I was asked by the manager (or host??) if we could move over to the bar (w/ no seating) so they could seat a table of 4. This probably wouldn't have been a big deal but the fact I just took my last bite and still had a 1/2 bottle of wine after 45 min... it was very lame to ask.
(1)
Shannon P.
Went on feb 23' 2013, had the roasted chicken Alfredo. It was very good. The sauce was very creamy and rich with a lot of chicken. Great service I think his name was Will or Bill, anyway he was very helpful with my groups wine selection. We will go back. It was kind of noisy but the Iowa state v Kansas game was getting ready to start.
(4)
Mitch L.
I am from Omaha and met a person here from Cedar Rapids on a suggestion from a friend. I can tell you one thing, this place would be worth the drive back to Des Moines just to eat here. I put in a reservation on the suggestion of a friend for a Wednesday night meetup. The reservation was a good idea, because this place was packed at 7:15. I saw a few people complained about the decorations, but I thought they were completely fine and fit what the establishment is drying to be. Onto the food, what we all care about the most. My partner for the night and I had the bruschetta sampler platter. This was an amazing dish. It comes with 4 types of bruschetta: steak and blue cheese, tomato basil, mushroom and sweet peper, and some kind of oriental chicken. All four were great, but the standout was the steak and blue cheese. I could have ate a plate of these as my meal for the night. The tomato basil was a very very close second. As for dinner, I had the Lobster and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese. This dish should have been called "Wonders on my Tongue," because that is simply what it was. Imagine buttery, cheesey, lobster, shrimp goodness and multiply that flavor by 100. Only then can you begin to understand how good this dish was. Simply put, it is worth the drive and every penny of the $18 that was spent on this dish. The dish was so good, it overshadowed my partner for the nights dish of shrimp and grits. The shrimp and grits were well cooked and flavorful. There was a strong presence of bacon in the dish that brought it up another level. This was a great dish in its own-right, but just tough to give it props when it is next to something as wonderful as the lobster and shrimp Mac.
(5)
Gigi F.
Wow! This place was AMAZING! It was packed - even on a Wednesday. A coworker and I stopped in for dinner. We were greeted warmly and shown to the bar. The bartender was so attentive and helpful (and very attractive!). We had the Lobster Frittes and the Mussel appetizers. A generous portion of mussels, well prepared, well seasoned and delicious. The lobster dish was gourmet comfort food, so Good. For the entrees, we had the Porchetta, a stuffed marinated pork loin so tender it fell apart with a fork, on a bed of roasted root veggies - cooked to perfection - not too hard, not too soft. We also had the Lobster and Gulf Shrimp Mac and Cheese. As great as that sounds, it tasted even better. For dessert, fresh, light pear pastry with fresh ice cream. Oh my goodness! If I lived in Des Moines, I'd eat there every other day!
(5)
Chase A.
Great first date atmosphere. Order a bottle of vino and had the Lobster Poutine to start. Could have been a little heavier on the lobster and gravy, but was still great. For the main course I had the 4 Pork Gnocchi and was very pleased, although I left the restaurant still pretty hungry. Overall, great place and am looking forward to my next visit.
(4)
Customer D.
We tried Louie's Restaurant Week special....intended to get people to try them and become loyal customers....big strike out. Our appetizer was inedible. First the manager said he would take it off the bill, then later came back and said he couldn't do that. One entree was pretty good (shrimp and grits). The 4-pork gnocchi seemed to be missing any discernable pork at all...it was a big disappointment. The dessert was utterly unremarkable. $50 + tax + tip = $60 totally wasted for poor to mediocre food and a server who didn't really have a clue.
(1)
Jessica L.
I made my first trip to Louie's Wine Dive last night and I can't say that I am eagerly planning my next one. The ambiance is fine although it is a bit tacky to see the cooler/freezer door as you are sitting at the bar or relaxing in the pseudo-lounge area. Most of the staff was friendly - Tony at the door was welcoming and our bartender, Nick, was fantastic. The owner/chef, Jason, introduced himself which is a touch I appreciate. If only he was that nice to his staff... the set-up of the Wine Dive is such that bar patrons and many people in the dining area are able to see some and hear all of what is going on in the kitchen. Last night, that meant that we were subjected to hearing the owner continuously reprimand his cooks as if he is Beaverdale's answer to Gordon Ramsay. It was really a sad situation because not only did his staff have to be treated in this way, it was done in public so we had to watch them try to stay calm and on task. I am sure some people were probably nervous as to how their food was being prepared in such a hostile environment. The menu is fairly ambitious and for the restaurant's second week of being opened, I think everyone expects a reasonable amount of time to pass to allow for proper food preparation. It seemed that the owner was being unreasonably mean to his kitchen staff and we didn't hear of any errors except that he felt they were taking too long. If the wait time is too long then perhaps they need to do more things ahead of time, have more cooking space or even jumping in and helping and leading by example. I spoke with some of the diners and they each said they enjoyed the food and they didn't wait any longer than they expected. This guy needs to realize that he isn't running a burger joint - it appears that even though the word "dive" is in the title, he is trying to establish this venue as a fairly classy restaurant. And this means he needs to put his temper in check and learn how to properly coach and motivate his employees or quickly find a manager to do it for him. Two of the guys sitting at the bar next to us made a similar comment to one of the servers. His response was that the owner has to yell at them like that so they learn and he bets that the next time, they won't work the same way as they did tonight. My reply to that is the owner will be lucky if the staff even returns to work. There is no justification for that behavior and it is unfortunate that a server would reply that way to a customer's comment. The Wine Dive is young but if it wants to become a cornerstone of my Beaverdale community, this is the one thing that will prevent it from doing so. As a customer, I have a very hard time convincing myself to return and spend my money to support tyrants regardless the high quality product and customer service.
(3)
Lim K.
Tried shrimp and grits. It had good flavor; however, it was runny and was not the dish I expected. It was more like cheese soup with eggs. Two stars for food and five stars for service.
(3)
Misty H.
Was dissappointed when I saw the bakery was gone that used to be in this location but love wine so out of curiosity I wandered in. I was simply going to look at the menu since I was wearing jean shorts and a tank top and the place looked nice with cherry wood tables and chairs with bottles of wine on the back wall next to the kitchen although the patio didn't look open yet. The wall in the back could use some color or more design but I liked the place overall. As soon as I walked in and asked for a menu I felt welcomed by the employees ease and smile and so I looked around and most people there seemed to be wearing casual clothes. I was kind of hungry so I sat down at the bar and noticed on the menu a cobb salad. I love cobb salad so thought it wouldn't hurt to go ahead and try it but I am kind of picky as I love the service and cobb salad at Flemings. John the guy behind the bar introduced himself and handed me a wine menu so I thought what the heck I'll go ahead and get a glass. Had a great glass of Pinot Noir he let me sample first .The salad came out it was really good, I prefer more blue cheese but I was still impressed, the green goddess dressing was yummy and the salad was cold and crisp and on such a hot day it was perfect. A lady walked in doing the same thing just looking in curiously and John welcomed her with the same kind smile so she asked for a menu just to look at and as I was sitting at the bar next to where she stood she asked me if the salad was good. I told her it was so she sat a few seats down an ordered the salmon salad. Her and I ended up chatting it up while she was waiting for her salad. The owner Jason came over and checked to see how we were doing and talked with us for a bit. I asked Jason about the patio and he said they were going to have it open soon they had just had some paperwork they had to get done first. I watched him go back in the kitchen and work on food preparation with his staff. It was nice to be able to see my food being made, you can see the cooks from the room which really put my mind at ease. I have gone several times as it is nearby all my errands and have loved the food. The second time I came Jason recalled me right away with a smile chatted for a bit even though I could tell he was busy and invited me to come back again. The staff all at one point checked on me at the bar each time I go. I feel so at home every time I come, it has quickly become my new favorite place to eat. I brought my teenager in to try the food the last night and she had the salmon salad since I told her the lady I sat next to had loved hers and for dessert my daughter had the graham cracker smores which has a small fire in a metal holder to roast the marshmallows she thought it was awesome. I had the flat iron steak it was so good and they let me switch out the fries for the quinoa as I am a bit of a health nut. Nick and John are so much fun behind the bar and it was packed for a tuesday night. Every employee I have met there has been helpful and so nice. I have been a part of many a soft opening as I moved around and waitressed for 15 years and the employees and owners seem to get along no different than any other soft opening. If anything they seem to be happy and joking when things die down and serious and down to business when work needs to get done to make sure the customers come first. My daughter asked if we could go eat there again this weekend already. Yeah we'll be back.
(5)
katherine l.
Went to Louie's last night for some drinks and had an ok time. I will venture back to try the food but might wait a few weeks until they work out some of the kinks. I felt they were pretty proud of some of their wine prices. I also ordered a Louie Douie Martini and it was pretty lack luster. Very tasteless and mostly a bitter taste. The ambiance was a little lack luster. I know it had dive in the name but the green and mauve reminded me of the 80's. We were seated close to the restroom and all I could smell was bathroom cleaner. Which I'm thankful for a clean bathroom, but was a bit over powering. We ordered a cheese plate to share and when our server brought it out he had no idea what cheese was what and had to call someone over. Don't you think you might have asked the kitchen before you brought it out? I think it'll be an ok place but their staff needs a bit more education (at least the waiter we had), and if I'm going to go spend 50-100 bucks on after drinks alone (for 4 people we had two drinks each), I was expecting a bit more polished experience.
(3)
Kris D.
I thought I'd update that I've been back to this restaurant twice. I will say, the food is just so freaking good! The service has definitely improved with time. I will continue to be a repeat customer, and I recommend it to my friends.
(4)
Brian R.
My first visit to Louie's. The other reviews helped me decide to go here. Went with my wife and had some good food. So overall the service was good, the food was good and its a pretty nice environment in there. My only complaint is that you are sitting right on top of one another at the tables, or at least where I was sitting. So maybe try and go with a group instead of just 2.
(4)
Gerald Z.
Ok..this place is awesome. Took my wife here on date night. It was packed on a friday night at 8 as it should be. They were so nice though and sat us at the bar and we enjoyed a few cocktails while we waited for our table. The bartenders were very nice and took the time to explain some of the different cocktails to us. the food was tremendous, unfortunately they had run out of the pig stix when we arrived but we ordered the cheese flight and pate to start...yum. great mix of cheeses and a cherry/jalapeno jam. My wife then had a gnocchi with pork ragout and i had the fish and chips. the world stopped when i had their fish and chips.... WOW...these are probably the best fish and chips I have EVER had. Crisp outside, flakey inside not greasy at all. The fish was fresh and moist. I could have ordered four of those. that's the only complaint i had is that there wasn't enough. My wife and i devoured the fish and chips...wow...can't say enough about those. I never thought there would be better fish and chips than those i get at the royal mile, but I have to say these are BETTER. Much better in fact. We finished with a chocolate chip cookie sundae each which was unremarkable but satisfying. this is a great joint, love this place. ORDER THE FISH AND CHIPS.
(4)
Steven S.
Great food and fairly priced. Was not to sure about the place when I walked in. My perception changed very quickly. The service was wonderful and the wine and food fantastic
(5)
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Address :4040 University Ave
Des Moines, IA, 50311
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Brunch Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Coat Check : No Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Erika H.
Let me start off with overall a great experience and could have easily been 5 stars. Bartenders were courteous and spot on. Server was helpful in aiding our selections we split everything to try more. We started with the Calamari then the large apple harvest salad (both were delicious!) and finished with the 4 pork gnocchi which was also good. We decided against dessert and once that decision was made we were brought our checks. The server stopped by to pick them up but we hadn't put payment in she then informed us that she had been cut and would be back to pick up the checks. Which was done quickly after putting our cards in. The ran them we signed them and she picked them up without thanking us or stating should we need anything so and so could help us. Out the door she went. Funny thing is the friend that I was with used to be restaurant managers together.
(4)Michelle R.
This place is a true delight; from the adult beverage selection to the food! It's fantastic! The menu is delightful, seasonal, and delicious. The prices are reasonable for the fantastic quality of the food that 8 served. The server was knowledgeable, courteous, and more than willing to give excellent suggestions. I will most definitely look forward to returning here for their four course dinner in the hopefully not too distant future!
(5)Diane B.
I really enjoy Louies for dinner. Interesting menu options- something for everyone! The waitstaff I'd very knowledgable about wines and wine/ food pairings. Sean has never steered us wrong in his recommendations of wine or daily specials. It's a neighborhood place with " downtown" class!! I REALLY recommend the Lobster Poutine- it's Heaven!!
(4)Christine T.
My husband and I had our first visit to Louie's this week, and it won't be our last. We stopped in for a late breakfast on a Saturday and found friendly, efficient wait staff and a great menu. Both of us ordered off the breakfast menu (it was 10 am) and our dishes were inventive and delicious. My husband asked to look at the dinner menu for fun and when he found an appetizer that sounded good (red pepper humus) he was able to order it as well! The menu is eclectic, American food with a nod to NOLA - oysters, shrimp and grits and croque madame. And where else in Des Moines can you get Lobster poutine? I can't wait to try it. It is a rare occurrence when I find a menu and I want to try almost everything on it, but I am going to try. I have read comments about the decor. Frankly, I don't get it. The seating is comfortable and the wall color warmed the room. It is certainly preferable to the modern concrete floor, metal table, operating room ambiance some of the newer restaurants. Try Louie's, we want to keep a quality restaurant here in our neighborhood, just don't tell all your friends, I want to be able to get a table too.
(5)Kristin S.
My boyfriend and I decided to try this for the first time before attending a lecture at Drake U. The staff was super friendly (and even seemed to be having fun while working) and the setting was comfortable and lovely at the same time. Our food arrived quickly - a salad and a burger - both fantastic. We informed our server that we needed to leave quickly, so he was prompt with the check. We will totally be going back.
(5)Jennifer W.
I'm a big fan. The place is just right down the street from me, which is awesome. We've needed a new local in the Beav for awhile. It is usually really busy, so you definitely want to call ahead for a reservation or to put your name in. My husband and I usually just sit at the bar when it's packed. You have a fun, talkative, crowd but can get some privacy too. The food has yet to disappoint. We've been for breakfast, lunch, appetizers and dinner. I haven't had anything I didn't like. Some of my favs have been: the flatbread, the lobster poutin, lobster mac and cheese (duh!), the cuban sandwich, and oddly the salmon caesar salad. Also, the cocktails are pretty good- mostly classic cocktails which I appreciate, some with minor variations. Obviously they have a good wine list. Lastly, the service has been really awesome every time we've been. I haven't seen that kind of consistency in awhile. Overall, I definitely recommend this place. It's casual, there is range of prices on food, the drinks are flowing and the food/service is great.
(5)Lisa W.
I've eaten at Louie's three times and overall each experience has been great. I've had a seafood dish every time, crab cakes, scallops, lobster salad sandwhich, and they've all been very good. I enjoy the location as a neighborhood restaurant and the decor and atmosphere. Most times the service has been fast and efficient, although the time we were there for brunch my friend waited quite a long time for refills on her bottomless Mimosa. They also have a very good selection of craft beers and local craft beers. The prices are reasonable. I highly recommend Louie's to my friends and family.
(4)Steven S.
Great food and fairly priced. Was not to sure about the place when I walked in. My perception changed very quickly. The service was wonderful and the wine and food fantastic
(5)Tom C.
Twenty years ago this was the location of my childhood comic book store. I moved away and the retail winds shifted, and the location apparently went through a few incarnations. On a recent nostalgia tour I found myself standing outside like a dog outside its dead owner's bedroom, waiting for him to emerge and looking uncertainly at the nearest human, not understanding that what it once loved is dead and gone forever. I decided to go in to see if there was any nostalgia to be had in the walls and fixtures, and as I entered I was stunned to see a thriving classy and hip restaurant and bar. From the outside it looked like a liquor store. On the inside it looked nothing like a comic book store or liquor store. The atmosphere was really very hip and fun, and the service (I are at the bar, which used to be a wall separating the comic racks from the RPGs and war game collectibles) was really fantastic. Friendly and fun. I was given a wooden bottle puzzle to play with and enjoyed talking to the staff. My only complaint is that none of them seemed at all interested in the location's past as a neighborhood comic book shop. Any genuine follow-up at all would've automatically earned a massive tip. As for the food, I ordered the salmon salad. The salad was fine, but the salmon was overcooked and mostly inedible. There also wasn't enough goat cheese. 4 stars for a great atmosphere and that particular feeling of bittersweet longing only an aged comic book/RPG fan raised in the 80s could understand.
(4)Andy S.
My girlfriend ate here a few months ago. The place looked nice, the food was good, and the server was very friendly. Price was about what you would expect. I forget what we ordered, but one of the dishes came with this rectangular potato thing which was made up of very thin potato slices, and was absolutely awesome. My g/f and I have been thinking of coming back and just ordering wine and multiple rectangular potato thing sides.
(4)Mary H.
Walking in I felt a bit self-conscious in my scrubs; the atmosphere seems to call for fancier attire (most of the other guests were all doodled up for midweek lunch? Perhaps they don't have jobs/school.) After the initial awkward feeling everything was great. Our server, Josh/John (I really need to work on remembering names) made the meal even more enjoyable. Him being in a tshirt made me feel more comfortable. Great sense of humor and left us alone as appropriate. Pesto chicken flatbread came out and I thought, "I won't be able to eat all that," but it was so darn good I finished it. No regrets! My friend had the margarita flatbread and confessed the same sentiments at the end. I don't know how lavosh is supposed to be, so I can't really judge it; this serves as the base for the flatbread and is light/crispy so you don't feel all weighed down (or guilty) ... Why I decided to take a pregnant lady to a place with "wine" in the name-- I'm not sure. But I will most definitely be returning for a happy hour where aforementioned flatbreads are $5. Can't wait to try to the wine.
(4)Koby A.
Amazing brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. Had the crab cake benedict and my husband had the burger. Both were fantastic. Also tried the various unique mimosas from their bottomless offerings. My fave was the one with grapefruit juice.
(5)Thomas S.
Amazing food. Fantastic experience. Reccomended -- Gooey Louie. Mussels. The app with shrimp and French fries. Loved it.
(5)Kelly S.
I love the premise of this restaurant and so badly wanted it to be a go-to spot. Unfortunately, both the food and service has been hit or miss. On my first visit, a fellow diner ordered chicken - that came out visibly raw in the middle. The kitchen threw the same piece of chicken back on the grill and then sent it out (after everyone else at the table had finished their meal) overcooked. Management seemed annoyed when they had to deal with the situaion and offered the table a free dessert. On my second visit, I sat at the bar with a friend and had a salad (afraid to order food) and drinks. No problems, but nothing fantastic either. The bartender did seem knowledgeable about the wine selection. On my last and FINAL visit, I stopped in for a bit of chocolate and a glass of red wine. My partner was having dinner. BOTH The chocolate dessert and the wine I ordered were out. I was offered a different wine which I was pleased with and ordered a salted caramel dessert. The dessert was terrible and so salty I couldn't eat it. My dinner date was also disappointed with her meal. Overall, for the money you spend and the prices they charge, I believe the food is subpar. It's too bad really because, as I said before, I really wanted the place to be a smash. I hear the brunch is good. If I was to visit again it would be for brunch, but I really don't see that happening.
(2)Jeff B.
I was extremely impressed with the food and staff. I was able to stay and converse with a friend for 3 hours and never felt pressured to leave our table. My water glass was never empty. I'm not a wine person, but that didn't detract from the very good food and atmosphere. The prices on the meals are very reasonable for the high caliber food I received. I will definitely go back. Steak deBurgo is recommended. Also the cheese is from the Cheese Shop and very good. Steak Deburgo*gf 21 Parmesan encrusted petite tenderloin medallions seared and served with potato pavé and our seasonal vegetable
(5)Mark G.
I don't drink but my partner in crime does love fancy wine so this a logical place to go. It's not a dive to start off, I'm sure you might get many visuals in your head hearing the word dive. But it's nice inside, I promise. They have a very nice menu, many unique dishes that you can pair a good glass of wine up with and with almost everything under $20 too. I had the pan roasted Chicken, it was a good dish. But they have so much more to try! This is a place I've been meaning to go back to since the selection is so appealing. With all that said......"Dive in"
(4)Gary W.
One of the best meals I've ever had. We started with the special appetizer of bruschetta with heirloom tomatoes. The bread was warm and the tomatoes were bright and flavorful. I had the Sinatra burger with truffle fries for my entree. The burger was outstanding. The meat was delicious, juicy, and mixed with the green goddess dressing which dripped out with every bite. I used the truffle fries to soak up the remaining mixture so nothing would be wasted. For dessert I shared the pot de creme with a friend. It's creme brûlée for people who love salted caramel. I don't know much about wine, but the bottle selected for our table went well with the meal. I will be going back to try something new!
(5)Danielle S.
Must try the Trip to Jalisco wow this drink is so good and spicy Yum and the Shrimp Diablo or lobster and shrimp mac and cheese to of the best meals for lunch!
(5)Katie H.
This place is excellent! Great environment for a date night or just a few drinks with friends. I had the Shrimp Diablo and it was fantastic (made good leftovers too). Their wine list is one of the best in Des Moines. The wait staff is very friendly. It's a bit crowded so get there plenty early. I got there at 6:30 on a Tuesday and it was swarming with people. But it appeared that many were just enjoying a post-work glass of wine. Plenty of seating but I would recommend reservations to be on the safe side. I will definitely be back!
(4)Darien G.
I really don't get the hype. The service has been sort of spotty the times I've been, and I cannot recall a single time where anybody in my party "raved" about the food. Oh, and wouldn't you think that a place that calls itself a WINE dive would have the wine you want to order in stock? This has happened twice to my group where a choice wasn't available or (when ordering a bottle) the vintage was wrong. I'm not slamming the place as much as it might seem like I am. I just don't think it's worth more than three stars for the prices they charge and the product you get. I can think of many places I'd rather go if I'm shelling out $70+ per person for food & drink. The positive would be that enough people think it is a cool place, so lots of beautiful people will likely be there sharing the space with you.
(3)Bradley S.
I visit my family only once or twice a year so scheduling quality time together is important. Louie's was suggested by my sister and as she told me about the food and something called lobster poutine I knew I had to go! The entire place was even better than my sister described! The fries with lobster sauce dish (known as lobster poutine) was not on the menu this day, but the chef made it for us anyway. Wow! Chunks of portobello mushrooms, tasty pieces of lobster and other foods that melt in your mouth. And the fries soaked in the sauce sounds bad... But believe me it works. The fries became a salty noodle almost and that is when I decided I needed a glass of wine even though I had not planned on it. Love the wine selection that went well with our main dishes. The Sinatra burger and diablo pasta. Both fantastic. Make sure you like spicy food if you order the diablo. We do! And the burger was different, tasty and great with a red wine. Our waiter even offered a free tasting of a wine that had just come in. Oh my gosh this was so unexpected and the waiter talked to us like he was our best pal. He even offered to take our photo in front of the large wine bottle painting on the wall. Did I mention the unique decor that is a hidden surprise compared to the outside front with the word "dive" on the sign? Thanks for giving us such a memorable lunch experience! Louie's Wine Dive is Louie's Wine Devine!
(5)Greg S.
Not sure if I will give this place a second shot. Love wine but the brunch was a total train wreck. Space - Cool design but tables are very close together, I am fairly slender and small in stature and I felt like I was spill into the table behind me. Every time I moved, I found myself apologizing to those at the table behind me for bumping them. Service - Staff was friendly but food took an hour. I have little patience for slow food service when it comes to breakfast. This is eggs and toast, not a 5 course affair. My friend's food had to be wrapped before his first bite because he had a bus to catch. No apologies from the staff or offers to comp any of the food. Food - If I have to wait an hour + for eggs and toast after placing my order, it better be the best eggs I have ever had in my life. Sadly, there was little redemption in the food department. 3 ways to sum up the food; pricey, over-seasoned and low quality. Maybe they should just stick with the wine. One bright spot, after paying, the staff finally figured out they needed to do something so they gave me 3 coupons for free wine on my next visit. So I may be back but believe me I am not spending a dime over the 3 free glasses of wine.
(1)Geri D.
Very crowded way to many tables packed in there. Food was good....not a large menu. Wine small pour....14.00.....wasn't impressed. Probably won't be back.
(2)Hildie L.
Will need to try again.... Service errors didn't make this place easy to review. I will be back!
(2)Cliff K.
Try the fish and chips fresh lightly battery wild cod with champagne and rice flour batter and shaved brussel sprouts red cabbage slaw with hand cut Fries
(4)Alison M.
Went here for an early dinner around 5:30 with a reservation. Place was pretty quiet yet they sat us at a tiny two-top table behind the corner of the room right where the wait staff congregate to pick up their bar orders. Our waitress forgot about us since our table was hidden a bit, and we had to wait a while, during which time the bartender spilled a glass of red wine that splattered on the floor and ultimately on us a bit. Ordered shrimp & grits which were very bland. My guest ordered the apple harvest salad which was very good though. Just wasn't impressed enough to return for another try.
(3)Michael W.
This may turn into 5 stars when I come back, because I am definitely coming back. I had the Diablo shrimp pasta, very good, but very one dimensional. My wife's Sinatra burger was a work of beef art. So good. The squeaky cheese appetizer was also good. I am specifically coming back for the shrimp and grits!
(4)Erin H.
I'd give it a 3.5 if I could. Usually it's a solid 4 for food, but service can be a little spotty. We have either really good luck with the service or just so-so. Great wine selection. Lobster mac and cheese is to die for. We went there recently for brunch which was good but not quite as good as the dinners we've had there. All around good restaurant choice in Des Moines. Be prepared to wait on the weekends.
(4)Megan H.
I've been eagerly anticipating my first visit to Louie's Wine Dive since it opened earlier this year. The reviews on Yelp have been great. I love good wine! I love good food! Surely i would love Louie's Wine Dive, right? Wrong. For starters, there's the restaurant itself. Previous reviewers are right; they repainted the walls, turned the old ordering counter into a bar, and shoved a bunch of booths and high-top tables into the room. We were seated at the high-tops, which are so close together you may as well think of them as long communal tables. I frequently found myself sharing personal space with another party's server as she stood to the left of my barstool and leaned on the table next to my plate in order to speak with the party next to us. However, I can put up with just about anything in pursuit of a good meal. The ambiance wouldn't be a problem if the food was good. Sadly, it was anything but. We started with a house wine, which was fine, and oohed and aahed over the promising-sounding menu. Everything looked so good! We decided to start with the queso fundido with Mexican cheese and chorizo. It was shockingly bland - like we'd been served a bowl of melted supermarket cheese dotted with a few small pieces of chorizo. There was no flavor whatsoever - no heat, no spice, no nothing. Just a plate of melted cheese served with thick bready pitas. The only good part was the chorizo, and there were just a few sparse pieces scattered across the cheese... very disappointing. However, we didn't want to rush to judgement; perhaps our main courses would be better! We pushed aside the cheese and waited. I'd ordered the shrimp and grits, and Charlie had ordered the pork gnocchi. Now, I love shrimp and grits. I've had excellent shrimp and grits in several restaurants across the country. So I feel pretty confident saying these were TERRIBLE shrimp and grits. My grits were the consistency of glue; my shrimp were chewy and overcooked. Again, everything was just so bland - like the chef was cooking without herbs, spices, or seasoning of any kind. It was as though the kitchen staff barely knew what they were doing. Charlie's pork gnocchi were similarly bland. What was going on here??? This place was supposed to be so good! The menu looked awesome! We had high hopes for this place, but left extremely disappointed and unlikely to return. It's possible the vast, ambitious menu means the kitchen staff has to know so many dishes that the quality suffers. Or maybe this is the type of place where you just show up for the wine and some snacks. I can't explain it. I am truly mystified at all the positive comments after eating such bland food in a bland setting. As I was writing this review, I learned that Louie's opened a second location in Kansas City this November. It seems very likely to me that their better staff and chefs may have focused their efforts on the KC location, neglecting Des Moines in the process. It's the only way I can reconcile all these five-star reviews with what was, generously speaking, a two-star experience for me.
(2)Cj J.
We ate cheese flight, Gazpacho soup, moules frites mussels , vegetable ratatouille and fish & chips with acacia red wine blend to drink . Out Waiter was the best ask for dewayne he was great !!! I will De finely come back it was a great time of good & wine
(5)Nick K.
Picking a rating for this restaurant after eating here for the first time was quite hard. The atmosphere was normal, the service was great, and the food was both good and terrible. I decided to get the peppercorn burger and quinoa while my fiancee opted for flatbread pizza. The pizza was to the point and delicious. My meal, however, was a disappointment. Not only was the quinoa (listed on the menu merely as "quinoa") served cold in a salad of arugula and strawberries, but the burger was a disaster. Everything was prepared correctly, but the thing just tasted like a hodge-podge of ingredients that didn't compliment one another. I'll give it another shot, but overall, the restaurant didn't stand out strongly in either direction.
(3)Jerusha E.
We went to Louie's for brunch one Sunday and were pleased. Most of the breakfast options are egg based, but they also offer a few more lunch-ier options. The chicken apple salad was tasty- crunchy apples, fresh cheese and warm chicken. We didn't have drinks, but the menu looked solid.
(4)Caroline M.
Don't be a tool. Make a reservation! They were packed on a recent Sat night before 6pm. I dined here super early style when my parents were in town and we had a good time. I kinda wished we were seated in a better location. We were at a table in the corner near the restrooms and cases of extra wine stacked up behind us. Not super glam, but whatev. Our server was okay. He suggested a wine and brought me a sample (super tasty!) however I chose a different vino in the end. We did a bottle of sparkling--Cristalino Rose Brut, which is something I've had before. It was $30-ish, so not too bad. Very crisp, dry and super bubbly. And pink--gotta love rose! I went for a salad (shut up, it sounded good!) and flatbread. I did the apple, bacon, goat cheese, pecan salad--told you. And it was full of dark leafy greens, which was great. The bacon seemed a little bit overcooked, like super hard and crunchy. Hrrm.. but the flatbread was spot on. Portobello, balsamic caramelized onions, and Maytag Blue on a cracker-y thin bread. My mom went with the ratatouille, which was a mix of tasty veg on top of quinoa. This actually inspired her to pick up some bulk quinoa at Whole Foods Market the next day ;) And I snagged several bites of my dad's roast jerked chicken, which was also served with quinoa. We passed on dessert because I had a homemade banana cake waiting at my apt. Overall it was a tasty dinner, and liked seeing a fair amount of local additions to the menu, like the Maytag Blue cheese, La Quercia prosciutto, to name a few.
(4)Mary G.
Agree with most that Louie's is great. Good wine, great staff and nice atmosphere. My only criticism is they need "finger" foods for those of us stopping on our way home from work. I still have to make dinner when I get home so need just enough of something to soak up the wine. Great menu, but I don't need an entree. Maybe partner with South Union bread and the Cheese Shop for some tasting platters'
(4)Miki B.
Good food, service and atmosphere. We go there frequently before concerts and have always had good experience. Outside area is fin during warm months.
(4)Chad M.
Our first trip here was excellent. Great service - loved the Pork Gnocci and the wine recommendations were very enjoyable.
(5)Adam P.
Ok I will just rip it off like a band-aid...I will get the worst of it over quickly. I think the decor is bad. It's not terrible, but could use a professional touch. If it has had a professional touch they defiantly are not king Midas, so they don't need to worry about turning their loved ones into gold. What this place is doing right is fantastic food served up with a reasonable price, and deserts that make you hear angels sing. Let's be honest here, that is why you go somewhere not the look, but the food. I went there for dinner one night, and had friendly well informed service. A few kinks in the knowledge of the wines but it takes a while to train a staff on wine knowledge. I had a flat iron stake and it melted in my mouth, served with a delicious gravy and tasty fries. The next morning I returned for brunch and had the best Corn Pork Hash i have ever had in Des Moines. (Please not the corn Pork is done so in house). No I did not screw that up I said PORK! The two poached eggs when broke open covered the hash, and gave it that perfect velvet texture. The carrots cooked into the has added just a hint of sweetness to the dish. BEST HASH IN DES MOINES!!! Stop reading go.....go now.........eat the delicious hash. This is the first time in years that I did not need to use the salt and pepper on my table. The food was perfectly seasoned for my liking. I will say that I could see some people (who are not use to their food having flavor) would think it is a tad on the salty side. I really believe that this friendly corporate chef, turned restaurant owner, has struck gold in a golden neighborhood. I do mean friendly, and if you dine here you will most likely be greeted by the chef at some point in the evening. You can tell he has a love for food, and wants to make sure his customers are enjoying his passion. I miss the old IBC that use to be housed here, but they could not have opened a better replacement. It is so great to see another really solid restaurant open in the area. This would be a great place for a first date to having a nice dinner with friends and family. They are working on getting the patio running, because of a snag they ran into with the city. Yes you heard me correctly another fantastic patio in Des Moines. I for one can not wait to enjoy sunday brunch out there. p.s. they do have a kids menu.
(5)Vicki H.
Enjoyed time with friends. Fairly small and crowed. We and reservations for 5:30 on a Friday and bald we did. Food was good and a good wine selection.
(4)Brooke P.
I am liking this place more and more each time I go! Meomi from Monterey, Ca is such a good glass of pinot nior, also the bruschetta is so good - it is more of a sampler bruschetta with 4 different types - really good!! Overall I really like their menu. Brunch is also very tasty!
(5)Alexis R.
Everything I imagined. It'll make me sound like a total wine-o, but I have been jonesing to go to this place since before I moved to Des Moines. It did not disappoint. A girlfriend and I waltzed in an hour before close and were greeted so kindly. They put up with us until we toodled out well after posted closing time. Not only did they put up with us, they conversed with us, suggested wines, and generally were totally welcoming. So impressed. Can't wait to give more of the wine list and the menu a try. Go! But not when I'm there. Don't want a crowd all the time now. Let's space this out a bit, people.
(5)Julia J.
We ate here last night, and now have a new favorite restaurant! Shannon gave us exceptional service, seating us quickly even though we were 30 min early for our reservation. The space in here is tight! We were a bit cramped in our table, but as soon as the couple next to us left, Shannon showed up to scoot the tables over and make more room. The food = fabulous. Salads and pastas did not disappoint. I had the shrimp and lobster Mac and cheese, and I can honestly say it was the best Mac and cheese I have ever eaten. The restaurant was loud, the waist staff was not the best in the world, but we felt welcome and at home. Top that off with mouth watering food at a reasonable price, and we are hooked. We are already making plans to return!
(5)Beth Y.
Just had my first experience at Louie's for lunch. It was very good overall, with excellent service and wonderful food. I had a grilled cheese and my dining partner had the pulled pork ruben. My sandwich was very good, but next time I will ask for tomatoes to be added. That's just my preference. The fries, I must say, were sublime. Light, crispy, and perfectly cooked. My friend loved his sandwich. The wait person was very helpful and attentive, and turned off the fan which was making us a bit chilly. I am looking forward to returning, especially when the patio opens next week. p.s. someone marked this place as "dressy," which doesn't really seem fitting. I think the atmosphere is more casual than dressy, but perhaps in the evening it is fancier. Try it! It's great to have a restaurant like this in the neighborhood.
(4)John S.
We went into this dinner very skeptical, I mean come on, the name is very random and strange. But man o man was it great. Reservations on a Friday night were a MUST! The Wine Club is a great idea, wish more places would do clubs like that The fact the place is built on a wine premise meant no screaming kids, I LOVE THAT!! The tables are very close together which is great because it gives the place a real European feel. The flat bread was fantastic!! No place is 100% perfect, the desert menu is a bit skimpy with small portions, and the side area with the couch for just wine drinking is strange and doesn't fit the main dining area feel
(5)Ray B.
Very nice- fresh food, solid service. Only knock might be the price point. Appreciate the expansive menu, the best I could find in that neighborhood.
(4)lttlod i.
I love this place! I've been here about 10 times, probably more, and I've pretty much gotten great service along with flavorful amazing food. I've had several items on the menu but do admit to sticking to what I like for the most part. I also like that this menu changes with the seasons, I think I have that right. It doesn't change completely but they add and replace a few things. Food: I've had the burger, of course, with the homemade ranch sauce and ruffle chips. It's a childhood fave of the owner. Last night I also tried the pastrami burger with sauted onions and swiss cheese. Amazing!! I know my pastrami and let me tell you that this was fantastic. I didn't even need the burger part, just a big hunk of pastrami mmmmm. Porcetta (sp?): also amazing and decedent! sooo filling but rich and pork just pork everywhere! I think the owner/chef won an award for this one. Tried my friends buffalo mac and cheese along with truffle mushroom shells sooooooooo good! I typically order the pork ragu flatbread along with the wedge salad that I highly recommend! I sub the blue cheese for fontina and it's soo good. Went for brunch the other week and ordered one of the eggs benedict, not the benedict but the other option with the thin ham. Amazing and rich. Like I said, literally everything this place serves just hits the spot and its all pretty reasonable. several weeks ago I had a 12 person bday party there. Jordan took great care of us and we all had a great time, especially me! Their wine selection is very good although I just refer to my friend who knows wine so I have only had good experiences with the wine they serve. I love that this place is up the street from me and that the owner lives in the neighborhood. It's just what this area needs. The owner/chef also comes by to check on us and is friendly. Atmosphere: this place is always busy! make a reservation, seriously. The patio is our fave! They made a good decision moving the giant booth and replacing it with more high top tables. I think most of the place is now high top tables. Good call! This is basically my go to place. It's the first place my friends and I think to go when we head out to eat. It's consistently awesome and always a great experience. I'll be back for sure. I'll probably be back in a couple of days : P
(5)Craig R.
Former bakery converted to restaurant. The space is very small and you feel everybody is on top of you; if you are waiting for a table your usually standing in the line of traffic which makes it difficult to have a conversation since you looking over your shoulder most of the time. Food is average and the customer service is poor. In fact, the last time I dined there, I was asked by the manager (or host??) if we could move over to the bar (w/ no seating) so they could seat a table of 4. This probably wouldn't have been a big deal but the fact I just took my last bite and still had a 1/2 bottle of wine after 45 min... it was very lame to ask.
(1)Shannon P.
Went on feb 23' 2013, had the roasted chicken Alfredo. It was very good. The sauce was very creamy and rich with a lot of chicken. Great service I think his name was Will or Bill, anyway he was very helpful with my groups wine selection. We will go back. It was kind of noisy but the Iowa state v Kansas game was getting ready to start.
(4)Mitch L.
I am from Omaha and met a person here from Cedar Rapids on a suggestion from a friend. I can tell you one thing, this place would be worth the drive back to Des Moines just to eat here. I put in a reservation on the suggestion of a friend for a Wednesday night meetup. The reservation was a good idea, because this place was packed at 7:15. I saw a few people complained about the decorations, but I thought they were completely fine and fit what the establishment is drying to be. Onto the food, what we all care about the most. My partner for the night and I had the bruschetta sampler platter. This was an amazing dish. It comes with 4 types of bruschetta: steak and blue cheese, tomato basil, mushroom and sweet peper, and some kind of oriental chicken. All four were great, but the standout was the steak and blue cheese. I could have ate a plate of these as my meal for the night. The tomato basil was a very very close second. As for dinner, I had the Lobster and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese. This dish should have been called "Wonders on my Tongue," because that is simply what it was. Imagine buttery, cheesey, lobster, shrimp goodness and multiply that flavor by 100. Only then can you begin to understand how good this dish was. Simply put, it is worth the drive and every penny of the $18 that was spent on this dish. The dish was so good, it overshadowed my partner for the nights dish of shrimp and grits. The shrimp and grits were well cooked and flavorful. There was a strong presence of bacon in the dish that brought it up another level. This was a great dish in its own-right, but just tough to give it props when it is next to something as wonderful as the lobster and shrimp Mac.
(5)Gigi F.
Wow! This place was AMAZING! It was packed - even on a Wednesday. A coworker and I stopped in for dinner. We were greeted warmly and shown to the bar. The bartender was so attentive and helpful (and very attractive!). We had the Lobster Frittes and the Mussel appetizers. A generous portion of mussels, well prepared, well seasoned and delicious. The lobster dish was gourmet comfort food, so Good. For the entrees, we had the Porchetta, a stuffed marinated pork loin so tender it fell apart with a fork, on a bed of roasted root veggies - cooked to perfection - not too hard, not too soft. We also had the Lobster and Gulf Shrimp Mac and Cheese. As great as that sounds, it tasted even better. For dessert, fresh, light pear pastry with fresh ice cream. Oh my goodness! If I lived in Des Moines, I'd eat there every other day!
(5)Chase A.
Great first date atmosphere. Order a bottle of vino and had the Lobster Poutine to start. Could have been a little heavier on the lobster and gravy, but was still great. For the main course I had the 4 Pork Gnocchi and was very pleased, although I left the restaurant still pretty hungry. Overall, great place and am looking forward to my next visit.
(4)Customer D.
We tried Louie's Restaurant Week special....intended to get people to try them and become loyal customers....big strike out. Our appetizer was inedible. First the manager said he would take it off the bill, then later came back and said he couldn't do that. One entree was pretty good (shrimp and grits). The 4-pork gnocchi seemed to be missing any discernable pork at all...it was a big disappointment. The dessert was utterly unremarkable. $50 + tax + tip = $60 totally wasted for poor to mediocre food and a server who didn't really have a clue.
(1)Jessica L.
I made my first trip to Louie's Wine Dive last night and I can't say that I am eagerly planning my next one. The ambiance is fine although it is a bit tacky to see the cooler/freezer door as you are sitting at the bar or relaxing in the pseudo-lounge area. Most of the staff was friendly - Tony at the door was welcoming and our bartender, Nick, was fantastic. The owner/chef, Jason, introduced himself which is a touch I appreciate. If only he was that nice to his staff... the set-up of the Wine Dive is such that bar patrons and many people in the dining area are able to see some and hear all of what is going on in the kitchen. Last night, that meant that we were subjected to hearing the owner continuously reprimand his cooks as if he is Beaverdale's answer to Gordon Ramsay. It was really a sad situation because not only did his staff have to be treated in this way, it was done in public so we had to watch them try to stay calm and on task. I am sure some people were probably nervous as to how their food was being prepared in such a hostile environment. The menu is fairly ambitious and for the restaurant's second week of being opened, I think everyone expects a reasonable amount of time to pass to allow for proper food preparation. It seemed that the owner was being unreasonably mean to his kitchen staff and we didn't hear of any errors except that he felt they were taking too long. If the wait time is too long then perhaps they need to do more things ahead of time, have more cooking space or even jumping in and helping and leading by example. I spoke with some of the diners and they each said they enjoyed the food and they didn't wait any longer than they expected. This guy needs to realize that he isn't running a burger joint - it appears that even though the word "dive" is in the title, he is trying to establish this venue as a fairly classy restaurant. And this means he needs to put his temper in check and learn how to properly coach and motivate his employees or quickly find a manager to do it for him. Two of the guys sitting at the bar next to us made a similar comment to one of the servers. His response was that the owner has to yell at them like that so they learn and he bets that the next time, they won't work the same way as they did tonight. My reply to that is the owner will be lucky if the staff even returns to work. There is no justification for that behavior and it is unfortunate that a server would reply that way to a customer's comment. The Wine Dive is young but if it wants to become a cornerstone of my Beaverdale community, this is the one thing that will prevent it from doing so. As a customer, I have a very hard time convincing myself to return and spend my money to support tyrants regardless the high quality product and customer service.
(3)Lim K.
Tried shrimp and grits. It had good flavor; however, it was runny and was not the dish I expected. It was more like cheese soup with eggs. Two stars for food and five stars for service.
(3)Misty H.
Was dissappointed when I saw the bakery was gone that used to be in this location but love wine so out of curiosity I wandered in. I was simply going to look at the menu since I was wearing jean shorts and a tank top and the place looked nice with cherry wood tables and chairs with bottles of wine on the back wall next to the kitchen although the patio didn't look open yet. The wall in the back could use some color or more design but I liked the place overall. As soon as I walked in and asked for a menu I felt welcomed by the employees ease and smile and so I looked around and most people there seemed to be wearing casual clothes. I was kind of hungry so I sat down at the bar and noticed on the menu a cobb salad. I love cobb salad so thought it wouldn't hurt to go ahead and try it but I am kind of picky as I love the service and cobb salad at Flemings. John the guy behind the bar introduced himself and handed me a wine menu so I thought what the heck I'll go ahead and get a glass. Had a great glass of Pinot Noir he let me sample first .The salad came out it was really good, I prefer more blue cheese but I was still impressed, the green goddess dressing was yummy and the salad was cold and crisp and on such a hot day it was perfect. A lady walked in doing the same thing just looking in curiously and John welcomed her with the same kind smile so she asked for a menu just to look at and as I was sitting at the bar next to where she stood she asked me if the salad was good. I told her it was so she sat a few seats down an ordered the salmon salad. Her and I ended up chatting it up while she was waiting for her salad. The owner Jason came over and checked to see how we were doing and talked with us for a bit. I asked Jason about the patio and he said they were going to have it open soon they had just had some paperwork they had to get done first. I watched him go back in the kitchen and work on food preparation with his staff. It was nice to be able to see my food being made, you can see the cooks from the room which really put my mind at ease. I have gone several times as it is nearby all my errands and have loved the food. The second time I came Jason recalled me right away with a smile chatted for a bit even though I could tell he was busy and invited me to come back again. The staff all at one point checked on me at the bar each time I go. I feel so at home every time I come, it has quickly become my new favorite place to eat. I brought my teenager in to try the food the last night and she had the salmon salad since I told her the lady I sat next to had loved hers and for dessert my daughter had the graham cracker smores which has a small fire in a metal holder to roast the marshmallows she thought it was awesome. I had the flat iron steak it was so good and they let me switch out the fries for the quinoa as I am a bit of a health nut. Nick and John are so much fun behind the bar and it was packed for a tuesday night. Every employee I have met there has been helpful and so nice. I have been a part of many a soft opening as I moved around and waitressed for 15 years and the employees and owners seem to get along no different than any other soft opening. If anything they seem to be happy and joking when things die down and serious and down to business when work needs to get done to make sure the customers come first. My daughter asked if we could go eat there again this weekend already. Yeah we'll be back.
(5)katherine l.
Went to Louie's last night for some drinks and had an ok time. I will venture back to try the food but might wait a few weeks until they work out some of the kinks. I felt they were pretty proud of some of their wine prices. I also ordered a Louie Douie Martini and it was pretty lack luster. Very tasteless and mostly a bitter taste. The ambiance was a little lack luster. I know it had dive in the name but the green and mauve reminded me of the 80's. We were seated close to the restroom and all I could smell was bathroom cleaner. Which I'm thankful for a clean bathroom, but was a bit over powering. We ordered a cheese plate to share and when our server brought it out he had no idea what cheese was what and had to call someone over. Don't you think you might have asked the kitchen before you brought it out? I think it'll be an ok place but their staff needs a bit more education (at least the waiter we had), and if I'm going to go spend 50-100 bucks on after drinks alone (for 4 people we had two drinks each), I was expecting a bit more polished experience.
(3)Kris D.
I thought I'd update that I've been back to this restaurant twice. I will say, the food is just so freaking good! The service has definitely improved with time. I will continue to be a repeat customer, and I recommend it to my friends.
(4)Brian R.
My first visit to Louie's. The other reviews helped me decide to go here. Went with my wife and had some good food. So overall the service was good, the food was good and its a pretty nice environment in there. My only complaint is that you are sitting right on top of one another at the tables, or at least where I was sitting. So maybe try and go with a group instead of just 2.
(4)Alicia H.
We came for brunch on a Sunday morning and sat outside on the patio, which was lovely. Relaxing and spacious! The food was solidly tasty - we got the Harvest Eggs Benedict and the honey butter chicken sandwich. Sadly the oven wasn't working so that took a few options away that we were interested in. And our server was a sweet kid who didn't seem to know much about the place he was working which provided us some laughs but wasn't impressive. Overall I would recommend and we'll be back!
(4)Doug L.
Nice outdoor seating and a great night to sit outside. The wine and beer list was nice As a vegetarian there are only a couple choices. I looked at the menu and was going to get mushroom ravioli. The waiter came over and gave us 4 or 5 items there were out Of. I understand once in a while having One thing sold out but at 630p they shouldn't be sold out of that much. So I look at the menu again and decide on a Caesar salad. We order and 'oh o forgot to tell you, we are out of that too'. So I get a different salad. It was well prepared but with too much dressing I went with my daughter and son in law who had been before And really liked it. So maybe I just caught them on a bad night but if hadn't been for their positive thoughts I would never go back
(2)Nicole V.
I have been to Louie's Wine Dive a handful of times. I've had 5-star worthy visits, and 3-star worthy visits (hence the 4 stars). The service can be inconsistent -- except at the bar! The last few times we just sit at the bar and have a great experience each time. The bartenders have been able to recommend wine that fits my mood and my food. The gnocchi is great - several variations of pork with crispy gnochi. I also really like the quinoa/arugula side salad. Today I had the tiramisu and it was awesome too. I recommend reservations during dinner on Friday and Saturday. They are on OpenTable.
(4)Liz A.
I'm a little hit or miss on this place. Some of the pasta dishes I have had are good but maybe could use some additional seasonings? But they have my favorite salad in town - Emily Apple Harvest Salad. It's so fresh and good. I also like the flatbreads. They are always friendly with good service. It's good to see the restaurant doing well in that location.
(4)Patrick T.
Louie your place is not a dive at all? It's actually really nice! I love your high top tables, your huge salads, and if I was an avid Wine drinker you might have to call me your new roommate! Because your selection of the grape goods is pretty remarkable! But have no fear beer drinkers, they got that stuff too! They also have an awesome patio for summer sun, and sipping. And the service is delightful, looking forward to Louie inviting me back over for more!
(4)Donna S.
My review is for the weekend brunch. The bottomless mimosa menu caught my eye. And we were meeting friends for breakfast. This little neighbor spot in the uptown shopping center did not disappoint. A brief brunch menu - about 12 items. A Bloody Mary and mimosa menu $6 a glass or $12 for bottomless. Service was great, coffee and water always full. Food came out hot and had great flavor. Brunch prices $8-$12. I would like to come back and try their dinner and see the wine list.
(4)Ashley B.
The food is great, but the service is not great. I'm normally pretty understanding with busy days, but not getting refills and waiting to the point of going to the host station to pay for our bill is too much. We probably won't be back, which is too bad because the food is damn good.
(2)Jason S.
Went here for brunch on a rainy Sunday morning. They had some very unique breakfast entrees. I had the mac and cheese omelet with potatoes and my dining partner had the bourbon french toast with a grapefruit mimosa. Both were delicious and the portions were great! The dive is nice and the prices are very reasonable. I'd go back again - for brunch or lunch or dinner. They have bottomless mimosas during brunch and it's a good deal!
(4)Tom T.
Horrible customer service! Traveled 3 hours to meet friends. Hyped up Louis's. Looked forward to our evening. Entered the bar and was told to seat ourselves. We did on the outdoor patio. Server came to our table and told us we couldn't sit at a 2 top as a foursome as it blocked the aisle. Aisles on an outdoor patio!?! Give me a break! Ruined our evening. Stupid rule. We will never return . Off to a more hospitable place.
(1)Brandy V.
Our waiter was incredible. Our food was insane. The bone on the 28ounce ribeye was larger then my arm. Everything was very Tasty.
(5)Ashley T.
To me, Louie's has a casual, somewhat ambivalent appearance from the outside, but when you get in and check out the menu, it's impressive. I've been for dinner and recommend it, also just for drinks with friends, or most recently my husband and I just had drinks on the patio with the hummus appetizer as an afterthought, and it was very good. Light, but filling. The street is a little noisy, but this is a great patio for taking the opportunity to get outside on a nice day!
(4)Gerald Z.
Ok..this place is awesome. Took my wife here on date night. It was packed on a friday night at 8 as it should be. They were so nice though and sat us at the bar and we enjoyed a few cocktails while we waited for our table. The bartenders were very nice and took the time to explain some of the different cocktails to us. the food was tremendous, unfortunately they had run out of the pig stix when we arrived but we ordered the cheese flight and pate to start...yum. great mix of cheeses and a cherry/jalapeno jam. My wife then had a gnocchi with pork ragout and i had the fish and chips. the world stopped when i had their fish and chips.... WOW...these are probably the best fish and chips I have EVER had. Crisp outside, flakey inside not greasy at all. The fish was fresh and moist. I could have ordered four of those. that's the only complaint i had is that there wasn't enough. My wife and i devoured the fish and chips...wow...can't say enough about those. I never thought there would be better fish and chips than those i get at the royal mile, but I have to say these are BETTER. Much better in fact. We finished with a chocolate chip cookie sundae each which was unremarkable but satisfying. this is a great joint, love this place. ORDER THE FISH AND CHIPS.
(4)Michael W.
This may turn into 5 stars when I come back, because I am definitely coming back. I had the Diablo shrimp pasta, very good, but very one dimensional. My wife's Sinatra burger was a work of beef art. So good. The squeaky cheese appetizer was also good. I am specifically coming back for the shrimp and grits!
(4)Erin H.
I'd give it a 3.5 if I could. Usually it's a solid 4 for food, but service can be a little spotty. We have either really good luck with the service or just so-so. Great wine selection. Lobster mac and cheese is to die for. We went there recently for brunch which was good but not quite as good as the dinners we've had there. All around good restaurant choice in Des Moines. Be prepared to wait on the weekends.
(4)Nick K.
Picking a rating for this restaurant after eating here for the first time was quite hard. The atmosphere was normal, the service was great, and the food was both good and terrible. I decided to get the peppercorn burger and quinoa while my fiancee opted for flatbread pizza. The pizza was to the point and delicious. My meal, however, was a disappointment. Not only was the quinoa (listed on the menu merely as "quinoa") served cold in a salad of arugula and strawberries, but the burger was a disaster. Everything was prepared correctly, but the thing just tasted like a hodge-podge of ingredients that didn't compliment one another. I'll give it another shot, but overall, the restaurant didn't stand out strongly in either direction.
(3)Jerusha E.
We went to Louie's for brunch one Sunday and were pleased. Most of the breakfast options are egg based, but they also offer a few more lunch-ier options. The chicken apple salad was tasty- crunchy apples, fresh cheese and warm chicken. We didn't have drinks, but the menu looked solid.
(4)Caroline M.
Don't be a tool. Make a reservation! They were packed on a recent Sat night before 6pm. I dined here super early style when my parents were in town and we had a good time. I kinda wished we were seated in a better location. We were at a table in the corner near the restrooms and cases of extra wine stacked up behind us. Not super glam, but whatev. Our server was okay. He suggested a wine and brought me a sample (super tasty!) however I chose a different vino in the end. We did a bottle of sparkling--Cristalino Rose Brut, which is something I've had before. It was $30-ish, so not too bad. Very crisp, dry and super bubbly. And pink--gotta love rose! I went for a salad (shut up, it sounded good!) and flatbread. I did the apple, bacon, goat cheese, pecan salad--told you. And it was full of dark leafy greens, which was great. The bacon seemed a little bit overcooked, like super hard and crunchy. Hrrm.. but the flatbread was spot on. Portobello, balsamic caramelized onions, and Maytag Blue on a cracker-y thin bread. My mom went with the ratatouille, which was a mix of tasty veg on top of quinoa. This actually inspired her to pick up some bulk quinoa at Whole Foods Market the next day ;) And I snagged several bites of my dad's roast jerked chicken, which was also served with quinoa. We passed on dessert because I had a homemade banana cake waiting at my apt. Overall it was a tasty dinner, and liked seeing a fair amount of local additions to the menu, like the Maytag Blue cheese, La Quercia prosciutto, to name a few.
(4)Alicia H.
We came for brunch on a Sunday morning and sat outside on the patio, which was lovely. Relaxing and spacious! The food was solidly tasty - we got the Harvest Eggs Benedict and the honey butter chicken sandwich. Sadly the oven wasn't working so that took a few options away that we were interested in. And our server was a sweet kid who didn't seem to know much about the place he was working which provided us some laughs but wasn't impressive. Overall I would recommend and we'll be back!
(4)Doug L.
Nice outdoor seating and a great night to sit outside. The wine and beer list was nice As a vegetarian there are only a couple choices. I looked at the menu and was going to get mushroom ravioli. The waiter came over and gave us 4 or 5 items there were out Of. I understand once in a while having One thing sold out but at 630p they shouldn't be sold out of that much. So I look at the menu again and decide on a Caesar salad. We order and 'oh o forgot to tell you, we are out of that too'. So I get a different salad. It was well prepared but with too much dressing I went with my daughter and son in law who had been before And really liked it. So maybe I just caught them on a bad night but if hadn't been for their positive thoughts I would never go back
(2)Nicole V.
I have been to Louie's Wine Dive a handful of times. I've had 5-star worthy visits, and 3-star worthy visits (hence the 4 stars). The service can be inconsistent -- except at the bar! The last few times we just sit at the bar and have a great experience each time. The bartenders have been able to recommend wine that fits my mood and my food. The gnocchi is great - several variations of pork with crispy gnochi. I also really like the quinoa/arugula side salad. Today I had the tiramisu and it was awesome too. I recommend reservations during dinner on Friday and Saturday. They are on OpenTable.
(4)Liz A.
I'm a little hit or miss on this place. Some of the pasta dishes I have had are good but maybe could use some additional seasonings? But they have my favorite salad in town - Emily Apple Harvest Salad. It's so fresh and good. I also like the flatbreads. They are always friendly with good service. It's good to see the restaurant doing well in that location.
(4)Patrick T.
Louie your place is not a dive at all? It's actually really nice! I love your high top tables, your huge salads, and if I was an avid Wine drinker you might have to call me your new roommate! Because your selection of the grape goods is pretty remarkable! But have no fear beer drinkers, they got that stuff too! They also have an awesome patio for summer sun, and sipping. And the service is delightful, looking forward to Louie inviting me back over for more!
(4)Donna S.
My review is for the weekend brunch. The bottomless mimosa menu caught my eye. And we were meeting friends for breakfast. This little neighbor spot in the uptown shopping center did not disappoint. A brief brunch menu - about 12 items. A Bloody Mary and mimosa menu $6 a glass or $12 for bottomless. Service was great, coffee and water always full. Food came out hot and had great flavor. Brunch prices $8-$12. I would like to come back and try their dinner and see the wine list.
(4)Ashley B.
The food is great, but the service is not great. I'm normally pretty understanding with busy days, but not getting refills and waiting to the point of going to the host station to pay for our bill is too much. We probably won't be back, which is too bad because the food is damn good.
(2)Jason S.
Went here for brunch on a rainy Sunday morning. They had some very unique breakfast entrees. I had the mac and cheese omelet with potatoes and my dining partner had the bourbon french toast with a grapefruit mimosa. Both were delicious and the portions were great! The dive is nice and the prices are very reasonable. I'd go back again - for brunch or lunch or dinner. They have bottomless mimosas during brunch and it's a good deal!
(4)Tom T.
Horrible customer service! Traveled 3 hours to meet friends. Hyped up Louis's. Looked forward to our evening. Entered the bar and was told to seat ourselves. We did on the outdoor patio. Server came to our table and told us we couldn't sit at a 2 top as a foursome as it blocked the aisle. Aisles on an outdoor patio!?! Give me a break! Ruined our evening. Stupid rule. We will never return . Off to a more hospitable place.
(1)Brandy V.
Our waiter was incredible. Our food was insane. The bone on the 28ounce ribeye was larger then my arm. Everything was very Tasty.
(5)Ashley T.
To me, Louie's has a casual, somewhat ambivalent appearance from the outside, but when you get in and check out the menu, it's impressive. I've been for dinner and recommend it, also just for drinks with friends, or most recently my husband and I just had drinks on the patio with the hummus appetizer as an afterthought, and it was very good. Light, but filling. The street is a little noisy, but this is a great patio for taking the opportunity to get outside on a nice day!
(4)Michelle R.
This place is a true delight; from the adult beverage selection to the food! It's fantastic! The menu is delightful, seasonal, and delicious. The prices are reasonable for the fantastic quality of the food that 8 served. The server was knowledgeable, courteous, and more than willing to give excellent suggestions. I will most definitely look forward to returning here for their four course dinner in the hopefully not too distant future!
(5)Lisa W.
I've eaten at Louie's three times and overall each experience has been great. I've had a seafood dish every time, crab cakes, scallops, lobster salad sandwhich, and they've all been very good. I enjoy the location as a neighborhood restaurant and the decor and atmosphere. Most times the service has been fast and efficient, although the time we were there for brunch my friend waited quite a long time for refills on her bottomless Mimosa. They also have a very good selection of craft beers and local craft beers. The prices are reasonable. I highly recommend Louie's to my friends and family.
(4)Tom C.
Twenty years ago this was the location of my childhood comic book store. I moved away and the retail winds shifted, and the location apparently went through a few incarnations. On a recent nostalgia tour I found myself standing outside like a dog outside its dead owner's bedroom, waiting for him to emerge and looking uncertainly at the nearest human, not understanding that what it once loved is dead and gone forever. I decided to go in to see if there was any nostalgia to be had in the walls and fixtures, and as I entered I was stunned to see a thriving classy and hip restaurant and bar. From the outside it looked like a liquor store. On the inside it looked nothing like a comic book store or liquor store. The atmosphere was really very hip and fun, and the service (I are at the bar, which used to be a wall separating the comic racks from the RPGs and war game collectibles) was really fantastic. Friendly and fun. I was given a wooden bottle puzzle to play with and enjoyed talking to the staff. My only complaint is that none of them seemed at all interested in the location's past as a neighborhood comic book shop. Any genuine follow-up at all would've automatically earned a massive tip. As for the food, I ordered the salmon salad. The salad was fine, but the salmon was overcooked and mostly inedible. There also wasn't enough goat cheese. 4 stars for a great atmosphere and that particular feeling of bittersweet longing only an aged comic book/RPG fan raised in the 80s could understand.
(4)Andy S.
My girlfriend ate here a few months ago. The place looked nice, the food was good, and the server was very friendly. Price was about what you would expect. I forget what we ordered, but one of the dishes came with this rectangular potato thing which was made up of very thin potato slices, and was absolutely awesome. My g/f and I have been thinking of coming back and just ordering wine and multiple rectangular potato thing sides.
(4)Mary H.
Walking in I felt a bit self-conscious in my scrubs; the atmosphere seems to call for fancier attire (most of the other guests were all doodled up for midweek lunch? Perhaps they don't have jobs/school.) After the initial awkward feeling everything was great. Our server, Josh/John (I really need to work on remembering names) made the meal even more enjoyable. Him being in a tshirt made me feel more comfortable. Great sense of humor and left us alone as appropriate. Pesto chicken flatbread came out and I thought, "I won't be able to eat all that," but it was so darn good I finished it. No regrets! My friend had the margarita flatbread and confessed the same sentiments at the end. I don't know how lavosh is supposed to be, so I can't really judge it; this serves as the base for the flatbread and is light/crispy so you don't feel all weighed down (or guilty) ... Why I decided to take a pregnant lady to a place with "wine" in the name-- I'm not sure. But I will most definitely be returning for a happy hour where aforementioned flatbreads are $5. Can't wait to try to the wine.
(4)Koby A.
Amazing brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. Had the crab cake benedict and my husband had the burger. Both were fantastic. Also tried the various unique mimosas from their bottomless offerings. My fave was the one with grapefruit juice.
(5)Thomas S.
Amazing food. Fantastic experience. Reccomended -- Gooey Louie. Mussels. The app with shrimp and French fries. Loved it.
(5)Kelly S.
I love the premise of this restaurant and so badly wanted it to be a go-to spot. Unfortunately, both the food and service has been hit or miss. On my first visit, a fellow diner ordered chicken - that came out visibly raw in the middle. The kitchen threw the same piece of chicken back on the grill and then sent it out (after everyone else at the table had finished their meal) overcooked. Management seemed annoyed when they had to deal with the situaion and offered the table a free dessert. On my second visit, I sat at the bar with a friend and had a salad (afraid to order food) and drinks. No problems, but nothing fantastic either. The bartender did seem knowledgeable about the wine selection. On my last and FINAL visit, I stopped in for a bit of chocolate and a glass of red wine. My partner was having dinner. BOTH The chocolate dessert and the wine I ordered were out. I was offered a different wine which I was pleased with and ordered a salted caramel dessert. The dessert was terrible and so salty I couldn't eat it. My dinner date was also disappointed with her meal. Overall, for the money you spend and the prices they charge, I believe the food is subpar. It's too bad really because, as I said before, I really wanted the place to be a smash. I hear the brunch is good. If I was to visit again it would be for brunch, but I really don't see that happening.
(2)Jeff B.
I was extremely impressed with the food and staff. I was able to stay and converse with a friend for 3 hours and never felt pressured to leave our table. My water glass was never empty. I'm not a wine person, but that didn't detract from the very good food and atmosphere. The prices on the meals are very reasonable for the high caliber food I received. I will definitely go back. Steak deBurgo is recommended. Also the cheese is from the Cheese Shop and very good. Steak Deburgo*gf 21 Parmesan encrusted petite tenderloin medallions seared and served with potato pavé and our seasonal vegetable
(5)Mark G.
I don't drink but my partner in crime does love fancy wine so this a logical place to go. It's not a dive to start off, I'm sure you might get many visuals in your head hearing the word dive. But it's nice inside, I promise. They have a very nice menu, many unique dishes that you can pair a good glass of wine up with and with almost everything under $20 too. I had the pan roasted Chicken, it was a good dish. But they have so much more to try! This is a place I've been meaning to go back to since the selection is so appealing. With all that said......"Dive in"
(4)Gary W.
One of the best meals I've ever had. We started with the special appetizer of bruschetta with heirloom tomatoes. The bread was warm and the tomatoes were bright and flavorful. I had the Sinatra burger with truffle fries for my entree. The burger was outstanding. The meat was delicious, juicy, and mixed with the green goddess dressing which dripped out with every bite. I used the truffle fries to soak up the remaining mixture so nothing would be wasted. For dessert I shared the pot de creme with a friend. It's creme brûlée for people who love salted caramel. I don't know much about wine, but the bottle selected for our table went well with the meal. I will be going back to try something new!
(5)Danielle S.
Must try the Trip to Jalisco wow this drink is so good and spicy Yum and the Shrimp Diablo or lobster and shrimp mac and cheese to of the best meals for lunch!
(5)Diane B.
I really enjoy Louies for dinner. Interesting menu options- something for everyone! The waitstaff I'd very knowledgable about wines and wine/ food pairings. Sean has never steered us wrong in his recommendations of wine or daily specials. It's a neighborhood place with " downtown" class!! I REALLY recommend the Lobster Poutine- it's Heaven!!
(4)Katie H.
This place is excellent! Great environment for a date night or just a few drinks with friends. I had the Shrimp Diablo and it was fantastic (made good leftovers too). Their wine list is one of the best in Des Moines. The wait staff is very friendly. It's a bit crowded so get there plenty early. I got there at 6:30 on a Tuesday and it was swarming with people. But it appeared that many were just enjoying a post-work glass of wine. Plenty of seating but I would recommend reservations to be on the safe side. I will definitely be back!
(4)Darien G.
I really don't get the hype. The service has been sort of spotty the times I've been, and I cannot recall a single time where anybody in my party "raved" about the food. Oh, and wouldn't you think that a place that calls itself a WINE dive would have the wine you want to order in stock? This has happened twice to my group where a choice wasn't available or (when ordering a bottle) the vintage was wrong. I'm not slamming the place as much as it might seem like I am. I just don't think it's worth more than three stars for the prices they charge and the product you get. I can think of many places I'd rather go if I'm shelling out $70+ per person for food & drink. The positive would be that enough people think it is a cool place, so lots of beautiful people will likely be there sharing the space with you.
(3)Alison M.
Went here for an early dinner around 5:30 with a reservation. Place was pretty quiet yet they sat us at a tiny two-top table behind the corner of the room right where the wait staff congregate to pick up their bar orders. Our waitress forgot about us since our table was hidden a bit, and we had to wait a while, during which time the bartender spilled a glass of red wine that splattered on the floor and ultimately on us a bit. Ordered shrimp & grits which were very bland. My guest ordered the apple harvest salad which was very good though. Just wasn't impressed enough to return for another try.
(3)Mary G.
Agree with most that Louie's is great. Good wine, great staff and nice atmosphere. My only criticism is they need "finger" foods for those of us stopping on our way home from work. I still have to make dinner when I get home so need just enough of something to soak up the wine. Great menu, but I don't need an entree. Maybe partner with South Union bread and the Cheese Shop for some tasting platters'
(4)Miki B.
Good food, service and atmosphere. We go there frequently before concerts and have always had good experience. Outside area is fin during warm months.
(4)Chad M.
Our first trip here was excellent. Great service - loved the Pork Gnocci and the wine recommendations were very enjoyable.
(5)Bradley S.
I visit my family only once or twice a year so scheduling quality time together is important. Louie's was suggested by my sister and as she told me about the food and something called lobster poutine I knew I had to go! The entire place was even better than my sister described! The fries with lobster sauce dish (known as lobster poutine) was not on the menu this day, but the chef made it for us anyway. Wow! Chunks of portobello mushrooms, tasty pieces of lobster and other foods that melt in your mouth. And the fries soaked in the sauce sounds bad... But believe me it works. The fries became a salty noodle almost and that is when I decided I needed a glass of wine even though I had not planned on it. Love the wine selection that went well with our main dishes. The Sinatra burger and diablo pasta. Both fantastic. Make sure you like spicy food if you order the diablo. We do! And the burger was different, tasty and great with a red wine. Our waiter even offered a free tasting of a wine that had just come in. Oh my gosh this was so unexpected and the waiter talked to us like he was our best pal. He even offered to take our photo in front of the large wine bottle painting on the wall. Did I mention the unique decor that is a hidden surprise compared to the outside front with the word "dive" on the sign? Thanks for giving us such a memorable lunch experience! Louie's Wine Dive is Louie's Wine Devine!
(5)Greg S.
Not sure if I will give this place a second shot. Love wine but the brunch was a total train wreck. Space - Cool design but tables are very close together, I am fairly slender and small in stature and I felt like I was spill into the table behind me. Every time I moved, I found myself apologizing to those at the table behind me for bumping them. Service - Staff was friendly but food took an hour. I have little patience for slow food service when it comes to breakfast. This is eggs and toast, not a 5 course affair. My friend's food had to be wrapped before his first bite because he had a bus to catch. No apologies from the staff or offers to comp any of the food. Food - If I have to wait an hour + for eggs and toast after placing my order, it better be the best eggs I have ever had in my life. Sadly, there was little redemption in the food department. 3 ways to sum up the food; pricey, over-seasoned and low quality. Maybe they should just stick with the wine. One bright spot, after paying, the staff finally figured out they needed to do something so they gave me 3 coupons for free wine on my next visit. So I may be back but believe me I am not spending a dime over the 3 free glasses of wine.
(1)Geri D.
Very crowded way to many tables packed in there. Food was good....not a large menu. Wine small pour....14.00.....wasn't impressed. Probably won't be back.
(2)Hildie L.
Will need to try again.... Service errors didn't make this place easy to review. I will be back!
(2)Cliff K.
Try the fish and chips fresh lightly battery wild cod with champagne and rice flour batter and shaved brussel sprouts red cabbage slaw with hand cut Fries
(4)Megan H.
I've been eagerly anticipating my first visit to Louie's Wine Dive since it opened earlier this year. The reviews on Yelp have been great. I love good wine! I love good food! Surely i would love Louie's Wine Dive, right? Wrong. For starters, there's the restaurant itself. Previous reviewers are right; they repainted the walls, turned the old ordering counter into a bar, and shoved a bunch of booths and high-top tables into the room. We were seated at the high-tops, which are so close together you may as well think of them as long communal tables. I frequently found myself sharing personal space with another party's server as she stood to the left of my barstool and leaned on the table next to my plate in order to speak with the party next to us. However, I can put up with just about anything in pursuit of a good meal. The ambiance wouldn't be a problem if the food was good. Sadly, it was anything but. We started with a house wine, which was fine, and oohed and aahed over the promising-sounding menu. Everything looked so good! We decided to start with the queso fundido with Mexican cheese and chorizo. It was shockingly bland - like we'd been served a bowl of melted supermarket cheese dotted with a few small pieces of chorizo. There was no flavor whatsoever - no heat, no spice, no nothing. Just a plate of melted cheese served with thick bready pitas. The only good part was the chorizo, and there were just a few sparse pieces scattered across the cheese... very disappointing. However, we didn't want to rush to judgement; perhaps our main courses would be better! We pushed aside the cheese and waited. I'd ordered the shrimp and grits, and Charlie had ordered the pork gnocchi. Now, I love shrimp and grits. I've had excellent shrimp and grits in several restaurants across the country. So I feel pretty confident saying these were TERRIBLE shrimp and grits. My grits were the consistency of glue; my shrimp were chewy and overcooked. Again, everything was just so bland - like the chef was cooking without herbs, spices, or seasoning of any kind. It was as though the kitchen staff barely knew what they were doing. Charlie's pork gnocchi were similarly bland. What was going on here??? This place was supposed to be so good! The menu looked awesome! We had high hopes for this place, but left extremely disappointed and unlikely to return. It's possible the vast, ambitious menu means the kitchen staff has to know so many dishes that the quality suffers. Or maybe this is the type of place where you just show up for the wine and some snacks. I can't explain it. I am truly mystified at all the positive comments after eating such bland food in a bland setting. As I was writing this review, I learned that Louie's opened a second location in Kansas City this November. It seems very likely to me that their better staff and chefs may have focused their efforts on the KC location, neglecting Des Moines in the process. It's the only way I can reconcile all these five-star reviews with what was, generously speaking, a two-star experience for me.
(2)Cj J.
We ate cheese flight, Gazpacho soup, moules frites mussels , vegetable ratatouille and fish & chips with acacia red wine blend to drink . Out Waiter was the best ask for dewayne he was great !!! I will De finely come back it was a great time of good & wine
(5)Adam P.
Ok I will just rip it off like a band-aid...I will get the worst of it over quickly. I think the decor is bad. It's not terrible, but could use a professional touch. If it has had a professional touch they defiantly are not king Midas, so they don't need to worry about turning their loved ones into gold. What this place is doing right is fantastic food served up with a reasonable price, and deserts that make you hear angels sing. Let's be honest here, that is why you go somewhere not the look, but the food. I went there for dinner one night, and had friendly well informed service. A few kinks in the knowledge of the wines but it takes a while to train a staff on wine knowledge. I had a flat iron stake and it melted in my mouth, served with a delicious gravy and tasty fries. The next morning I returned for brunch and had the best Corn Pork Hash i have ever had in Des Moines. (Please not the corn Pork is done so in house). No I did not screw that up I said PORK! The two poached eggs when broke open covered the hash, and gave it that perfect velvet texture. The carrots cooked into the has added just a hint of sweetness to the dish. BEST HASH IN DES MOINES!!! Stop reading go.....go now.........eat the delicious hash. This is the first time in years that I did not need to use the salt and pepper on my table. The food was perfectly seasoned for my liking. I will say that I could see some people (who are not use to their food having flavor) would think it is a tad on the salty side. I really believe that this friendly corporate chef, turned restaurant owner, has struck gold in a golden neighborhood. I do mean friendly, and if you dine here you will most likely be greeted by the chef at some point in the evening. You can tell he has a love for food, and wants to make sure his customers are enjoying his passion. I miss the old IBC that use to be housed here, but they could not have opened a better replacement. It is so great to see another really solid restaurant open in the area. This would be a great place for a first date to having a nice dinner with friends and family. They are working on getting the patio running, because of a snag they ran into with the city. Yes you heard me correctly another fantastic patio in Des Moines. I for one can not wait to enjoy sunday brunch out there. p.s. they do have a kids menu.
(5)Vicki H.
Enjoyed time with friends. Fairly small and crowed. We and reservations for 5:30 on a Friday and bald we did. Food was good and a good wine selection.
(4)Brooke P.
I am liking this place more and more each time I go! Meomi from Monterey, Ca is such a good glass of pinot nior, also the bruschetta is so good - it is more of a sampler bruschetta with 4 different types - really good!! Overall I really like their menu. Brunch is also very tasty!
(5)Alexis R.
Everything I imagined. It'll make me sound like a total wine-o, but I have been jonesing to go to this place since before I moved to Des Moines. It did not disappoint. A girlfriend and I waltzed in an hour before close and were greeted so kindly. They put up with us until we toodled out well after posted closing time. Not only did they put up with us, they conversed with us, suggested wines, and generally were totally welcoming. So impressed. Can't wait to give more of the wine list and the menu a try. Go! But not when I'm there. Don't want a crowd all the time now. Let's space this out a bit, people.
(5)Erika H.
Let me start off with overall a great experience and could have easily been 5 stars. Bartenders were courteous and spot on. Server was helpful in aiding our selections we split everything to try more. We started with the Calamari then the large apple harvest salad (both were delicious!) and finished with the 4 pork gnocchi which was also good. We decided against dessert and once that decision was made we were brought our checks. The server stopped by to pick them up but we hadn't put payment in she then informed us that she had been cut and would be back to pick up the checks. Which was done quickly after putting our cards in. The ran them we signed them and she picked them up without thanking us or stating should we need anything so and so could help us. Out the door she went. Funny thing is the friend that I was with used to be restaurant managers together.
(4)Christine T.
My husband and I had our first visit to Louie's this week, and it won't be our last. We stopped in for a late breakfast on a Saturday and found friendly, efficient wait staff and a great menu. Both of us ordered off the breakfast menu (it was 10 am) and our dishes were inventive and delicious. My husband asked to look at the dinner menu for fun and when he found an appetizer that sounded good (red pepper humus) he was able to order it as well! The menu is eclectic, American food with a nod to NOLA - oysters, shrimp and grits and croque madame. And where else in Des Moines can you get Lobster poutine? I can't wait to try it. It is a rare occurrence when I find a menu and I want to try almost everything on it, but I am going to try. I have read comments about the decor. Frankly, I don't get it. The seating is comfortable and the wall color warmed the room. It is certainly preferable to the modern concrete floor, metal table, operating room ambiance some of the newer restaurants. Try Louie's, we want to keep a quality restaurant here in our neighborhood, just don't tell all your friends, I want to be able to get a table too.
(5)Kristin S.
My boyfriend and I decided to try this for the first time before attending a lecture at Drake U. The staff was super friendly (and even seemed to be having fun while working) and the setting was comfortable and lovely at the same time. Our food arrived quickly - a salad and a burger - both fantastic. We informed our server that we needed to leave quickly, so he was prompt with the check. We will totally be going back.
(5)Jennifer W.
I'm a big fan. The place is just right down the street from me, which is awesome. We've needed a new local in the Beav for awhile. It is usually really busy, so you definitely want to call ahead for a reservation or to put your name in. My husband and I usually just sit at the bar when it's packed. You have a fun, talkative, crowd but can get some privacy too. The food has yet to disappoint. We've been for breakfast, lunch, appetizers and dinner. I haven't had anything I didn't like. Some of my favs have been: the flatbread, the lobster poutin, lobster mac and cheese (duh!), the cuban sandwich, and oddly the salmon caesar salad. Also, the cocktails are pretty good- mostly classic cocktails which I appreciate, some with minor variations. Obviously they have a good wine list. Lastly, the service has been really awesome every time we've been. I haven't seen that kind of consistency in awhile. Overall, I definitely recommend this place. It's casual, there is range of prices on food, the drinks are flowing and the food/service is great.
(5)Julia J.
We ate here last night, and now have a new favorite restaurant! Shannon gave us exceptional service, seating us quickly even though we were 30 min early for our reservation. The space in here is tight! We were a bit cramped in our table, but as soon as the couple next to us left, Shannon showed up to scoot the tables over and make more room. The food = fabulous. Salads and pastas did not disappoint. I had the shrimp and lobster Mac and cheese, and I can honestly say it was the best Mac and cheese I have ever eaten. The restaurant was loud, the waist staff was not the best in the world, but we felt welcome and at home. Top that off with mouth watering food at a reasonable price, and we are hooked. We are already making plans to return!
(5)Beth Y.
Just had my first experience at Louie's for lunch. It was very good overall, with excellent service and wonderful food. I had a grilled cheese and my dining partner had the pulled pork ruben. My sandwich was very good, but next time I will ask for tomatoes to be added. That's just my preference. The fries, I must say, were sublime. Light, crispy, and perfectly cooked. My friend loved his sandwich. The wait person was very helpful and attentive, and turned off the fan which was making us a bit chilly. I am looking forward to returning, especially when the patio opens next week. p.s. someone marked this place as "dressy," which doesn't really seem fitting. I think the atmosphere is more casual than dressy, but perhaps in the evening it is fancier. Try it! It's great to have a restaurant like this in the neighborhood.
(4)John S.
We went into this dinner very skeptical, I mean come on, the name is very random and strange. But man o man was it great. Reservations on a Friday night were a MUST! The Wine Club is a great idea, wish more places would do clubs like that The fact the place is built on a wine premise meant no screaming kids, I LOVE THAT!! The tables are very close together which is great because it gives the place a real European feel. The flat bread was fantastic!! No place is 100% perfect, the desert menu is a bit skimpy with small portions, and the side area with the couch for just wine drinking is strange and doesn't fit the main dining area feel
(5)Ray B.
Very nice- fresh food, solid service. Only knock might be the price point. Appreciate the expansive menu, the best I could find in that neighborhood.
(4)lttlod i.
I love this place! I've been here about 10 times, probably more, and I've pretty much gotten great service along with flavorful amazing food. I've had several items on the menu but do admit to sticking to what I like for the most part. I also like that this menu changes with the seasons, I think I have that right. It doesn't change completely but they add and replace a few things. Food: I've had the burger, of course, with the homemade ranch sauce and ruffle chips. It's a childhood fave of the owner. Last night I also tried the pastrami burger with sauted onions and swiss cheese. Amazing!! I know my pastrami and let me tell you that this was fantastic. I didn't even need the burger part, just a big hunk of pastrami mmmmm. Porcetta (sp?): also amazing and decedent! sooo filling but rich and pork just pork everywhere! I think the owner/chef won an award for this one. Tried my friends buffalo mac and cheese along with truffle mushroom shells sooooooooo good! I typically order the pork ragu flatbread along with the wedge salad that I highly recommend! I sub the blue cheese for fontina and it's soo good. Went for brunch the other week and ordered one of the eggs benedict, not the benedict but the other option with the thin ham. Amazing and rich. Like I said, literally everything this place serves just hits the spot and its all pretty reasonable. several weeks ago I had a 12 person bday party there. Jordan took great care of us and we all had a great time, especially me! Their wine selection is very good although I just refer to my friend who knows wine so I have only had good experiences with the wine they serve. I love that this place is up the street from me and that the owner lives in the neighborhood. It's just what this area needs. The owner/chef also comes by to check on us and is friendly. Atmosphere: this place is always busy! make a reservation, seriously. The patio is our fave! They made a good decision moving the giant booth and replacing it with more high top tables. I think most of the place is now high top tables. Good call! This is basically my go to place. It's the first place my friends and I think to go when we head out to eat. It's consistently awesome and always a great experience. I'll be back for sure. I'll probably be back in a couple of days : P
(5)Craig R.
Former bakery converted to restaurant. The space is very small and you feel everybody is on top of you; if you are waiting for a table your usually standing in the line of traffic which makes it difficult to have a conversation since you looking over your shoulder most of the time. Food is average and the customer service is poor. In fact, the last time I dined there, I was asked by the manager (or host??) if we could move over to the bar (w/ no seating) so they could seat a table of 4. This probably wouldn't have been a big deal but the fact I just took my last bite and still had a 1/2 bottle of wine after 45 min... it was very lame to ask.
(1)Shannon P.
Went on feb 23' 2013, had the roasted chicken Alfredo. It was very good. The sauce was very creamy and rich with a lot of chicken. Great service I think his name was Will or Bill, anyway he was very helpful with my groups wine selection. We will go back. It was kind of noisy but the Iowa state v Kansas game was getting ready to start.
(4)Chase A.
Great first date atmosphere. Order a bottle of vino and had the Lobster Poutine to start. Could have been a little heavier on the lobster and gravy, but was still great. For the main course I had the 4 Pork Gnocchi and was very pleased, although I left the restaurant still pretty hungry. Overall, great place and am looking forward to my next visit.
(4)Customer D.
We tried Louie's Restaurant Week special....intended to get people to try them and become loyal customers....big strike out. Our appetizer was inedible. First the manager said he would take it off the bill, then later came back and said he couldn't do that. One entree was pretty good (shrimp and grits). The 4-pork gnocchi seemed to be missing any discernable pork at all...it was a big disappointment. The dessert was utterly unremarkable. $50 + tax + tip = $60 totally wasted for poor to mediocre food and a server who didn't really have a clue.
(1)Jessica L.
I made my first trip to Louie's Wine Dive last night and I can't say that I am eagerly planning my next one. The ambiance is fine although it is a bit tacky to see the cooler/freezer door as you are sitting at the bar or relaxing in the pseudo-lounge area. Most of the staff was friendly - Tony at the door was welcoming and our bartender, Nick, was fantastic. The owner/chef, Jason, introduced himself which is a touch I appreciate. If only he was that nice to his staff... the set-up of the Wine Dive is such that bar patrons and many people in the dining area are able to see some and hear all of what is going on in the kitchen. Last night, that meant that we were subjected to hearing the owner continuously reprimand his cooks as if he is Beaverdale's answer to Gordon Ramsay. It was really a sad situation because not only did his staff have to be treated in this way, it was done in public so we had to watch them try to stay calm and on task. I am sure some people were probably nervous as to how their food was being prepared in such a hostile environment. The menu is fairly ambitious and for the restaurant's second week of being opened, I think everyone expects a reasonable amount of time to pass to allow for proper food preparation. It seemed that the owner was being unreasonably mean to his kitchen staff and we didn't hear of any errors except that he felt they were taking too long. If the wait time is too long then perhaps they need to do more things ahead of time, have more cooking space or even jumping in and helping and leading by example. I spoke with some of the diners and they each said they enjoyed the food and they didn't wait any longer than they expected. This guy needs to realize that he isn't running a burger joint - it appears that even though the word "dive" is in the title, he is trying to establish this venue as a fairly classy restaurant. And this means he needs to put his temper in check and learn how to properly coach and motivate his employees or quickly find a manager to do it for him. Two of the guys sitting at the bar next to us made a similar comment to one of the servers. His response was that the owner has to yell at them like that so they learn and he bets that the next time, they won't work the same way as they did tonight. My reply to that is the owner will be lucky if the staff even returns to work. There is no justification for that behavior and it is unfortunate that a server would reply that way to a customer's comment. The Wine Dive is young but if it wants to become a cornerstone of my Beaverdale community, this is the one thing that will prevent it from doing so. As a customer, I have a very hard time convincing myself to return and spend my money to support tyrants regardless the high quality product and customer service.
(3)Lim K.
Tried shrimp and grits. It had good flavor; however, it was runny and was not the dish I expected. It was more like cheese soup with eggs. Two stars for food and five stars for service.
(3)Mitch L.
I am from Omaha and met a person here from Cedar Rapids on a suggestion from a friend. I can tell you one thing, this place would be worth the drive back to Des Moines just to eat here. I put in a reservation on the suggestion of a friend for a Wednesday night meetup. The reservation was a good idea, because this place was packed at 7:15. I saw a few people complained about the decorations, but I thought they were completely fine and fit what the establishment is drying to be. Onto the food, what we all care about the most. My partner for the night and I had the bruschetta sampler platter. This was an amazing dish. It comes with 4 types of bruschetta: steak and blue cheese, tomato basil, mushroom and sweet peper, and some kind of oriental chicken. All four were great, but the standout was the steak and blue cheese. I could have ate a plate of these as my meal for the night. The tomato basil was a very very close second. As for dinner, I had the Lobster and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese. This dish should have been called "Wonders on my Tongue," because that is simply what it was. Imagine buttery, cheesey, lobster, shrimp goodness and multiply that flavor by 100. Only then can you begin to understand how good this dish was. Simply put, it is worth the drive and every penny of the $18 that was spent on this dish. The dish was so good, it overshadowed my partner for the nights dish of shrimp and grits. The shrimp and grits were well cooked and flavorful. There was a strong presence of bacon in the dish that brought it up another level. This was a great dish in its own-right, but just tough to give it props when it is next to something as wonderful as the lobster and shrimp Mac.
(5)Gigi F.
Wow! This place was AMAZING! It was packed - even on a Wednesday. A coworker and I stopped in for dinner. We were greeted warmly and shown to the bar. The bartender was so attentive and helpful (and very attractive!). We had the Lobster Frittes and the Mussel appetizers. A generous portion of mussels, well prepared, well seasoned and delicious. The lobster dish was gourmet comfort food, so Good. For the entrees, we had the Porchetta, a stuffed marinated pork loin so tender it fell apart with a fork, on a bed of roasted root veggies - cooked to perfection - not too hard, not too soft. We also had the Lobster and Gulf Shrimp Mac and Cheese. As great as that sounds, it tasted even better. For dessert, fresh, light pear pastry with fresh ice cream. Oh my goodness! If I lived in Des Moines, I'd eat there every other day!
(5)Misty H.
Was dissappointed when I saw the bakery was gone that used to be in this location but love wine so out of curiosity I wandered in. I was simply going to look at the menu since I was wearing jean shorts and a tank top and the place looked nice with cherry wood tables and chairs with bottles of wine on the back wall next to the kitchen although the patio didn't look open yet. The wall in the back could use some color or more design but I liked the place overall. As soon as I walked in and asked for a menu I felt welcomed by the employees ease and smile and so I looked around and most people there seemed to be wearing casual clothes. I was kind of hungry so I sat down at the bar and noticed on the menu a cobb salad. I love cobb salad so thought it wouldn't hurt to go ahead and try it but I am kind of picky as I love the service and cobb salad at Flemings. John the guy behind the bar introduced himself and handed me a wine menu so I thought what the heck I'll go ahead and get a glass. Had a great glass of Pinot Noir he let me sample first .The salad came out it was really good, I prefer more blue cheese but I was still impressed, the green goddess dressing was yummy and the salad was cold and crisp and on such a hot day it was perfect. A lady walked in doing the same thing just looking in curiously and John welcomed her with the same kind smile so she asked for a menu just to look at and as I was sitting at the bar next to where she stood she asked me if the salad was good. I told her it was so she sat a few seats down an ordered the salmon salad. Her and I ended up chatting it up while she was waiting for her salad. The owner Jason came over and checked to see how we were doing and talked with us for a bit. I asked Jason about the patio and he said they were going to have it open soon they had just had some paperwork they had to get done first. I watched him go back in the kitchen and work on food preparation with his staff. It was nice to be able to see my food being made, you can see the cooks from the room which really put my mind at ease. I have gone several times as it is nearby all my errands and have loved the food. The second time I came Jason recalled me right away with a smile chatted for a bit even though I could tell he was busy and invited me to come back again. The staff all at one point checked on me at the bar each time I go. I feel so at home every time I come, it has quickly become my new favorite place to eat. I brought my teenager in to try the food the last night and she had the salmon salad since I told her the lady I sat next to had loved hers and for dessert my daughter had the graham cracker smores which has a small fire in a metal holder to roast the marshmallows she thought it was awesome. I had the flat iron steak it was so good and they let me switch out the fries for the quinoa as I am a bit of a health nut. Nick and John are so much fun behind the bar and it was packed for a tuesday night. Every employee I have met there has been helpful and so nice. I have been a part of many a soft opening as I moved around and waitressed for 15 years and the employees and owners seem to get along no different than any other soft opening. If anything they seem to be happy and joking when things die down and serious and down to business when work needs to get done to make sure the customers come first. My daughter asked if we could go eat there again this weekend already. Yeah we'll be back.
(5)katherine l.
Went to Louie's last night for some drinks and had an ok time. I will venture back to try the food but might wait a few weeks until they work out some of the kinks. I felt they were pretty proud of some of their wine prices. I also ordered a Louie Douie Martini and it was pretty lack luster. Very tasteless and mostly a bitter taste. The ambiance was a little lack luster. I know it had dive in the name but the green and mauve reminded me of the 80's. We were seated close to the restroom and all I could smell was bathroom cleaner. Which I'm thankful for a clean bathroom, but was a bit over powering. We ordered a cheese plate to share and when our server brought it out he had no idea what cheese was what and had to call someone over. Don't you think you might have asked the kitchen before you brought it out? I think it'll be an ok place but their staff needs a bit more education (at least the waiter we had), and if I'm going to go spend 50-100 bucks on after drinks alone (for 4 people we had two drinks each), I was expecting a bit more polished experience.
(3)Kris D.
I thought I'd update that I've been back to this restaurant twice. I will say, the food is just so freaking good! The service has definitely improved with time. I will continue to be a repeat customer, and I recommend it to my friends.
(4)Brian R.
My first visit to Louie's. The other reviews helped me decide to go here. Went with my wife and had some good food. So overall the service was good, the food was good and its a pretty nice environment in there. My only complaint is that you are sitting right on top of one another at the tables, or at least where I was sitting. So maybe try and go with a group instead of just 2.
(4)Alicia H.
We came for brunch on a Sunday morning and sat outside on the patio, which was lovely. Relaxing and spacious! The food was solidly tasty - we got the Harvest Eggs Benedict and the honey butter chicken sandwich. Sadly the oven wasn't working so that took a few options away that we were interested in. And our server was a sweet kid who didn't seem to know much about the place he was working which provided us some laughs but wasn't impressive. Overall I would recommend and we'll be back!
(4)Doug L.
Nice outdoor seating and a great night to sit outside. The wine and beer list was nice As a vegetarian there are only a couple choices. I looked at the menu and was going to get mushroom ravioli. The waiter came over and gave us 4 or 5 items there were out Of. I understand once in a while having One thing sold out but at 630p they shouldn't be sold out of that much. So I look at the menu again and decide on a Caesar salad. We order and 'oh o forgot to tell you, we are out of that too'. So I get a different salad. It was well prepared but with too much dressing I went with my daughter and son in law who had been before And really liked it. So maybe I just caught them on a bad night but if hadn't been for their positive thoughts I would never go back
(2)Nicole V.
I have been to Louie's Wine Dive a handful of times. I've had 5-star worthy visits, and 3-star worthy visits (hence the 4 stars). The service can be inconsistent -- except at the bar! The last few times we just sit at the bar and have a great experience each time. The bartenders have been able to recommend wine that fits my mood and my food. The gnocchi is great - several variations of pork with crispy gnochi. I also really like the quinoa/arugula side salad. Today I had the tiramisu and it was awesome too. I recommend reservations during dinner on Friday and Saturday. They are on OpenTable.
(4)Liz A.
I'm a little hit or miss on this place. Some of the pasta dishes I have had are good but maybe could use some additional seasonings? But they have my favorite salad in town - Emily Apple Harvest Salad. It's so fresh and good. I also like the flatbreads. They are always friendly with good service. It's good to see the restaurant doing well in that location.
(4)Patrick T.
Louie your place is not a dive at all? It's actually really nice! I love your high top tables, your huge salads, and if I was an avid Wine drinker you might have to call me your new roommate! Because your selection of the grape goods is pretty remarkable! But have no fear beer drinkers, they got that stuff too! They also have an awesome patio for summer sun, and sipping. And the service is delightful, looking forward to Louie inviting me back over for more!
(4)Donna S.
My review is for the weekend brunch. The bottomless mimosa menu caught my eye. And we were meeting friends for breakfast. This little neighbor spot in the uptown shopping center did not disappoint. A brief brunch menu - about 12 items. A Bloody Mary and mimosa menu $6 a glass or $12 for bottomless. Service was great, coffee and water always full. Food came out hot and had great flavor. Brunch prices $8-$12. I would like to come back and try their dinner and see the wine list.
(4)Ashley B.
The food is great, but the service is not great. I'm normally pretty understanding with busy days, but not getting refills and waiting to the point of going to the host station to pay for our bill is too much. We probably won't be back, which is too bad because the food is damn good.
(2)Jason S.
Went here for brunch on a rainy Sunday morning. They had some very unique breakfast entrees. I had the mac and cheese omelet with potatoes and my dining partner had the bourbon french toast with a grapefruit mimosa. Both were delicious and the portions were great! The dive is nice and the prices are very reasonable. I'd go back again - for brunch or lunch or dinner. They have bottomless mimosas during brunch and it's a good deal!
(4)Tom T.
Horrible customer service! Traveled 3 hours to meet friends. Hyped up Louis's. Looked forward to our evening. Entered the bar and was told to seat ourselves. We did on the outdoor patio. Server came to our table and told us we couldn't sit at a 2 top as a foursome as it blocked the aisle. Aisles on an outdoor patio!?! Give me a break! Ruined our evening. Stupid rule. We will never return . Off to a more hospitable place.
(1)Brandy V.
Our waiter was incredible. Our food was insane. The bone on the 28ounce ribeye was larger then my arm. Everything was very Tasty.
(5)Ashley T.
To me, Louie's has a casual, somewhat ambivalent appearance from the outside, but when you get in and check out the menu, it's impressive. I've been for dinner and recommend it, also just for drinks with friends, or most recently my husband and I just had drinks on the patio with the hummus appetizer as an afterthought, and it was very good. Light, but filling. The street is a little noisy, but this is a great patio for taking the opportunity to get outside on a nice day!
(4)Gerald Z.
Ok..this place is awesome. Took my wife here on date night. It was packed on a friday night at 8 as it should be. They were so nice though and sat us at the bar and we enjoyed a few cocktails while we waited for our table. The bartenders were very nice and took the time to explain some of the different cocktails to us. the food was tremendous, unfortunately they had run out of the pig stix when we arrived but we ordered the cheese flight and pate to start...yum. great mix of cheeses and a cherry/jalapeno jam. My wife then had a gnocchi with pork ragout and i had the fish and chips. the world stopped when i had their fish and chips.... WOW...these are probably the best fish and chips I have EVER had. Crisp outside, flakey inside not greasy at all. The fish was fresh and moist. I could have ordered four of those. that's the only complaint i had is that there wasn't enough. My wife and i devoured the fish and chips...wow...can't say enough about those. I never thought there would be better fish and chips than those i get at the royal mile, but I have to say these are BETTER. Much better in fact. We finished with a chocolate chip cookie sundae each which was unremarkable but satisfying. this is a great joint, love this place. ORDER THE FISH AND CHIPS.
(4)Steven S.
Great food and fairly priced. Was not to sure about the place when I walked in. My perception changed very quickly. The service was wonderful and the wine and food fantastic
(5)Lisa W.
I've eaten at Louie's three times and overall each experience has been great. I've had a seafood dish every time, crab cakes, scallops, lobster salad sandwhich, and they've all been very good. I enjoy the location as a neighborhood restaurant and the decor and atmosphere. Most times the service has been fast and efficient, although the time we were there for brunch my friend waited quite a long time for refills on her bottomless Mimosa. They also have a very good selection of craft beers and local craft beers. The prices are reasonable. I highly recommend Louie's to my friends and family.
(4)Michael W.
This may turn into 5 stars when I come back, because I am definitely coming back. I had the Diablo shrimp pasta, very good, but very one dimensional. My wife's Sinatra burger was a work of beef art. So good. The squeaky cheese appetizer was also good. I am specifically coming back for the shrimp and grits!
(4)Erin H.
I'd give it a 3.5 if I could. Usually it's a solid 4 for food, but service can be a little spotty. We have either really good luck with the service or just so-so. Great wine selection. Lobster mac and cheese is to die for. We went there recently for brunch which was good but not quite as good as the dinners we've had there. All around good restaurant choice in Des Moines. Be prepared to wait on the weekends.
(4)Tom C.
Twenty years ago this was the location of my childhood comic book store. I moved away and the retail winds shifted, and the location apparently went through a few incarnations. On a recent nostalgia tour I found myself standing outside like a dog outside its dead owner's bedroom, waiting for him to emerge and looking uncertainly at the nearest human, not understanding that what it once loved is dead and gone forever. I decided to go in to see if there was any nostalgia to be had in the walls and fixtures, and as I entered I was stunned to see a thriving classy and hip restaurant and bar. From the outside it looked like a liquor store. On the inside it looked nothing like a comic book store or liquor store. The atmosphere was really very hip and fun, and the service (I are at the bar, which used to be a wall separating the comic racks from the RPGs and war game collectibles) was really fantastic. Friendly and fun. I was given a wooden bottle puzzle to play with and enjoyed talking to the staff. My only complaint is that none of them seemed at all interested in the location's past as a neighborhood comic book shop. Any genuine follow-up at all would've automatically earned a massive tip. As for the food, I ordered the salmon salad. The salad was fine, but the salmon was overcooked and mostly inedible. There also wasn't enough goat cheese. 4 stars for a great atmosphere and that particular feeling of bittersweet longing only an aged comic book/RPG fan raised in the 80s could understand.
(4)Andy S.
My girlfriend ate here a few months ago. The place looked nice, the food was good, and the server was very friendly. Price was about what you would expect. I forget what we ordered, but one of the dishes came with this rectangular potato thing which was made up of very thin potato slices, and was absolutely awesome. My g/f and I have been thinking of coming back and just ordering wine and multiple rectangular potato thing sides.
(4)Jeff B.
I was extremely impressed with the food and staff. I was able to stay and converse with a friend for 3 hours and never felt pressured to leave our table. My water glass was never empty. I'm not a wine person, but that didn't detract from the very good food and atmosphere. The prices on the meals are very reasonable for the high caliber food I received. I will definitely go back. Steak deBurgo is recommended. Also the cheese is from the Cheese Shop and very good. Steak Deburgo*gf 21 Parmesan encrusted petite tenderloin medallions seared and served with potato pavé and our seasonal vegetable
(5)Mark G.
I don't drink but my partner in crime does love fancy wine so this a logical place to go. It's not a dive to start off, I'm sure you might get many visuals in your head hearing the word dive. But it's nice inside, I promise. They have a very nice menu, many unique dishes that you can pair a good glass of wine up with and with almost everything under $20 too. I had the pan roasted Chicken, it was a good dish. But they have so much more to try! This is a place I've been meaning to go back to since the selection is so appealing. With all that said......"Dive in"
(4)Mary H.
Walking in I felt a bit self-conscious in my scrubs; the atmosphere seems to call for fancier attire (most of the other guests were all doodled up for midweek lunch? Perhaps they don't have jobs/school.) After the initial awkward feeling everything was great. Our server, Josh/John (I really need to work on remembering names) made the meal even more enjoyable. Him being in a tshirt made me feel more comfortable. Great sense of humor and left us alone as appropriate. Pesto chicken flatbread came out and I thought, "I won't be able to eat all that," but it was so darn good I finished it. No regrets! My friend had the margarita flatbread and confessed the same sentiments at the end. I don't know how lavosh is supposed to be, so I can't really judge it; this serves as the base for the flatbread and is light/crispy so you don't feel all weighed down (or guilty) ... Why I decided to take a pregnant lady to a place with "wine" in the name-- I'm not sure. But I will most definitely be returning for a happy hour where aforementioned flatbreads are $5. Can't wait to try to the wine.
(4)Koby A.
Amazing brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. Had the crab cake benedict and my husband had the burger. Both were fantastic. Also tried the various unique mimosas from their bottomless offerings. My fave was the one with grapefruit juice.
(5)Thomas S.
Amazing food. Fantastic experience. Reccomended -- Gooey Louie. Mussels. The app with shrimp and French fries. Loved it.
(5)Michelle R.
This place is a true delight; from the adult beverage selection to the food! It's fantastic! The menu is delightful, seasonal, and delicious. The prices are reasonable for the fantastic quality of the food that 8 served. The server was knowledgeable, courteous, and more than willing to give excellent suggestions. I will most definitely look forward to returning here for their four course dinner in the hopefully not too distant future!
(5)Kelly S.
I love the premise of this restaurant and so badly wanted it to be a go-to spot. Unfortunately, both the food and service has been hit or miss. On my first visit, a fellow diner ordered chicken - that came out visibly raw in the middle. The kitchen threw the same piece of chicken back on the grill and then sent it out (after everyone else at the table had finished their meal) overcooked. Management seemed annoyed when they had to deal with the situaion and offered the table a free dessert. On my second visit, I sat at the bar with a friend and had a salad (afraid to order food) and drinks. No problems, but nothing fantastic either. The bartender did seem knowledgeable about the wine selection. On my last and FINAL visit, I stopped in for a bit of chocolate and a glass of red wine. My partner was having dinner. BOTH The chocolate dessert and the wine I ordered were out. I was offered a different wine which I was pleased with and ordered a salted caramel dessert. The dessert was terrible and so salty I couldn't eat it. My dinner date was also disappointed with her meal. Overall, for the money you spend and the prices they charge, I believe the food is subpar. It's too bad really because, as I said before, I really wanted the place to be a smash. I hear the brunch is good. If I was to visit again it would be for brunch, but I really don't see that happening.
(2)Gary W.
One of the best meals I've ever had. We started with the special appetizer of bruschetta with heirloom tomatoes. The bread was warm and the tomatoes were bright and flavorful. I had the Sinatra burger with truffle fries for my entree. The burger was outstanding. The meat was delicious, juicy, and mixed with the green goddess dressing which dripped out with every bite. I used the truffle fries to soak up the remaining mixture so nothing would be wasted. For dessert I shared the pot de creme with a friend. It's creme brûlée for people who love salted caramel. I don't know much about wine, but the bottle selected for our table went well with the meal. I will be going back to try something new!
(5)Danielle S.
Must try the Trip to Jalisco wow this drink is so good and spicy Yum and the Shrimp Diablo or lobster and shrimp mac and cheese to of the best meals for lunch!
(5)Diane B.
I really enjoy Louies for dinner. Interesting menu options- something for everyone! The waitstaff I'd very knowledgable about wines and wine/ food pairings. Sean has never steered us wrong in his recommendations of wine or daily specials. It's a neighborhood place with " downtown" class!! I REALLY recommend the Lobster Poutine- it's Heaven!!
(4)Katie H.
This place is excellent! Great environment for a date night or just a few drinks with friends. I had the Shrimp Diablo and it was fantastic (made good leftovers too). Their wine list is one of the best in Des Moines. The wait staff is very friendly. It's a bit crowded so get there plenty early. I got there at 6:30 on a Tuesday and it was swarming with people. But it appeared that many were just enjoying a post-work glass of wine. Plenty of seating but I would recommend reservations to be on the safe side. I will definitely be back!
(4)Darien G.
I really don't get the hype. The service has been sort of spotty the times I've been, and I cannot recall a single time where anybody in my party "raved" about the food. Oh, and wouldn't you think that a place that calls itself a WINE dive would have the wine you want to order in stock? This has happened twice to my group where a choice wasn't available or (when ordering a bottle) the vintage was wrong. I'm not slamming the place as much as it might seem like I am. I just don't think it's worth more than three stars for the prices they charge and the product you get. I can think of many places I'd rather go if I'm shelling out $70+ per person for food & drink. The positive would be that enough people think it is a cool place, so lots of beautiful people will likely be there sharing the space with you.
(3)Alison M.
Went here for an early dinner around 5:30 with a reservation. Place was pretty quiet yet they sat us at a tiny two-top table behind the corner of the room right where the wait staff congregate to pick up their bar orders. Our waitress forgot about us since our table was hidden a bit, and we had to wait a while, during which time the bartender spilled a glass of red wine that splattered on the floor and ultimately on us a bit. Ordered shrimp & grits which were very bland. My guest ordered the apple harvest salad which was very good though. Just wasn't impressed enough to return for another try.
(3)Bradley S.
I visit my family only once or twice a year so scheduling quality time together is important. Louie's was suggested by my sister and as she told me about the food and something called lobster poutine I knew I had to go! The entire place was even better than my sister described! The fries with lobster sauce dish (known as lobster poutine) was not on the menu this day, but the chef made it for us anyway. Wow! Chunks of portobello mushrooms, tasty pieces of lobster and other foods that melt in your mouth. And the fries soaked in the sauce sounds bad... But believe me it works. The fries became a salty noodle almost and that is when I decided I needed a glass of wine even though I had not planned on it. Love the wine selection that went well with our main dishes. The Sinatra burger and diablo pasta. Both fantastic. Make sure you like spicy food if you order the diablo. We do! And the burger was different, tasty and great with a red wine. Our waiter even offered a free tasting of a wine that had just come in. Oh my gosh this was so unexpected and the waiter talked to us like he was our best pal. He even offered to take our photo in front of the large wine bottle painting on the wall. Did I mention the unique decor that is a hidden surprise compared to the outside front with the word "dive" on the sign? Thanks for giving us such a memorable lunch experience! Louie's Wine Dive is Louie's Wine Devine!
(5)Greg S.
Not sure if I will give this place a second shot. Love wine but the brunch was a total train wreck. Space - Cool design but tables are very close together, I am fairly slender and small in stature and I felt like I was spill into the table behind me. Every time I moved, I found myself apologizing to those at the table behind me for bumping them. Service - Staff was friendly but food took an hour. I have little patience for slow food service when it comes to breakfast. This is eggs and toast, not a 5 course affair. My friend's food had to be wrapped before his first bite because he had a bus to catch. No apologies from the staff or offers to comp any of the food. Food - If I have to wait an hour + for eggs and toast after placing my order, it better be the best eggs I have ever had in my life. Sadly, there was little redemption in the food department. 3 ways to sum up the food; pricey, over-seasoned and low quality. Maybe they should just stick with the wine. One bright spot, after paying, the staff finally figured out they needed to do something so they gave me 3 coupons for free wine on my next visit. So I may be back but believe me I am not spending a dime over the 3 free glasses of wine.
(1)Geri D.
Very crowded way to many tables packed in there. Food was good....not a large menu. Wine small pour....14.00.....wasn't impressed. Probably won't be back.
(2)Hildie L.
Will need to try again.... Service errors didn't make this place easy to review. I will be back!
(2)Cliff K.
Try the fish and chips fresh lightly battery wild cod with champagne and rice flour batter and shaved brussel sprouts red cabbage slaw with hand cut Fries
(4)Nick K.
Picking a rating for this restaurant after eating here for the first time was quite hard. The atmosphere was normal, the service was great, and the food was both good and terrible. I decided to get the peppercorn burger and quinoa while my fiancee opted for flatbread pizza. The pizza was to the point and delicious. My meal, however, was a disappointment. Not only was the quinoa (listed on the menu merely as "quinoa") served cold in a salad of arugula and strawberries, but the burger was a disaster. Everything was prepared correctly, but the thing just tasted like a hodge-podge of ingredients that didn't compliment one another. I'll give it another shot, but overall, the restaurant didn't stand out strongly in either direction.
(3)Jerusha E.
We went to Louie's for brunch one Sunday and were pleased. Most of the breakfast options are egg based, but they also offer a few more lunch-ier options. The chicken apple salad was tasty- crunchy apples, fresh cheese and warm chicken. We didn't have drinks, but the menu looked solid.
(4)Caroline M.
Don't be a tool. Make a reservation! They were packed on a recent Sat night before 6pm. I dined here super early style when my parents were in town and we had a good time. I kinda wished we were seated in a better location. We were at a table in the corner near the restrooms and cases of extra wine stacked up behind us. Not super glam, but whatev. Our server was okay. He suggested a wine and brought me a sample (super tasty!) however I chose a different vino in the end. We did a bottle of sparkling--Cristalino Rose Brut, which is something I've had before. It was $30-ish, so not too bad. Very crisp, dry and super bubbly. And pink--gotta love rose! I went for a salad (shut up, it sounded good!) and flatbread. I did the apple, bacon, goat cheese, pecan salad--told you. And it was full of dark leafy greens, which was great. The bacon seemed a little bit overcooked, like super hard and crunchy. Hrrm.. but the flatbread was spot on. Portobello, balsamic caramelized onions, and Maytag Blue on a cracker-y thin bread. My mom went with the ratatouille, which was a mix of tasty veg on top of quinoa. This actually inspired her to pick up some bulk quinoa at Whole Foods Market the next day ;) And I snagged several bites of my dad's roast jerked chicken, which was also served with quinoa. We passed on dessert because I had a homemade banana cake waiting at my apt. Overall it was a tasty dinner, and liked seeing a fair amount of local additions to the menu, like the Maytag Blue cheese, La Quercia prosciutto, to name a few.
(4)Mary G.
Agree with most that Louie's is great. Good wine, great staff and nice atmosphere. My only criticism is they need "finger" foods for those of us stopping on our way home from work. I still have to make dinner when I get home so need just enough of something to soak up the wine. Great menu, but I don't need an entree. Maybe partner with South Union bread and the Cheese Shop for some tasting platters'
(4)Miki B.
Good food, service and atmosphere. We go there frequently before concerts and have always had good experience. Outside area is fin during warm months.
(4)Megan H.
I've been eagerly anticipating my first visit to Louie's Wine Dive since it opened earlier this year. The reviews on Yelp have been great. I love good wine! I love good food! Surely i would love Louie's Wine Dive, right? Wrong. For starters, there's the restaurant itself. Previous reviewers are right; they repainted the walls, turned the old ordering counter into a bar, and shoved a bunch of booths and high-top tables into the room. We were seated at the high-tops, which are so close together you may as well think of them as long communal tables. I frequently found myself sharing personal space with another party's server as she stood to the left of my barstool and leaned on the table next to my plate in order to speak with the party next to us. However, I can put up with just about anything in pursuit of a good meal. The ambiance wouldn't be a problem if the food was good. Sadly, it was anything but. We started with a house wine, which was fine, and oohed and aahed over the promising-sounding menu. Everything looked so good! We decided to start with the queso fundido with Mexican cheese and chorizo. It was shockingly bland - like we'd been served a bowl of melted supermarket cheese dotted with a few small pieces of chorizo. There was no flavor whatsoever - no heat, no spice, no nothing. Just a plate of melted cheese served with thick bready pitas. The only good part was the chorizo, and there were just a few sparse pieces scattered across the cheese... very disappointing. However, we didn't want to rush to judgement; perhaps our main courses would be better! We pushed aside the cheese and waited. I'd ordered the shrimp and grits, and Charlie had ordered the pork gnocchi. Now, I love shrimp and grits. I've had excellent shrimp and grits in several restaurants across the country. So I feel pretty confident saying these were TERRIBLE shrimp and grits. My grits were the consistency of glue; my shrimp were chewy and overcooked. Again, everything was just so bland - like the chef was cooking without herbs, spices, or seasoning of any kind. It was as though the kitchen staff barely knew what they were doing. Charlie's pork gnocchi were similarly bland. What was going on here??? This place was supposed to be so good! The menu looked awesome! We had high hopes for this place, but left extremely disappointed and unlikely to return. It's possible the vast, ambitious menu means the kitchen staff has to know so many dishes that the quality suffers. Or maybe this is the type of place where you just show up for the wine and some snacks. I can't explain it. I am truly mystified at all the positive comments after eating such bland food in a bland setting. As I was writing this review, I learned that Louie's opened a second location in Kansas City this November. It seems very likely to me that their better staff and chefs may have focused their efforts on the KC location, neglecting Des Moines in the process. It's the only way I can reconcile all these five-star reviews with what was, generously speaking, a two-star experience for me.
(2)Chad M.
Our first trip here was excellent. Great service - loved the Pork Gnocci and the wine recommendations were very enjoyable.
(5)Cj J.
We ate cheese flight, Gazpacho soup, moules frites mussels , vegetable ratatouille and fish & chips with acacia red wine blend to drink . Out Waiter was the best ask for dewayne he was great !!! I will De finely come back it was a great time of good & wine
(5)Adam P.
Ok I will just rip it off like a band-aid...I will get the worst of it over quickly. I think the decor is bad. It's not terrible, but could use a professional touch. If it has had a professional touch they defiantly are not king Midas, so they don't need to worry about turning their loved ones into gold. What this place is doing right is fantastic food served up with a reasonable price, and deserts that make you hear angels sing. Let's be honest here, that is why you go somewhere not the look, but the food. I went there for dinner one night, and had friendly well informed service. A few kinks in the knowledge of the wines but it takes a while to train a staff on wine knowledge. I had a flat iron stake and it melted in my mouth, served with a delicious gravy and tasty fries. The next morning I returned for brunch and had the best Corn Pork Hash i have ever had in Des Moines. (Please not the corn Pork is done so in house). No I did not screw that up I said PORK! The two poached eggs when broke open covered the hash, and gave it that perfect velvet texture. The carrots cooked into the has added just a hint of sweetness to the dish. BEST HASH IN DES MOINES!!! Stop reading go.....go now.........eat the delicious hash. This is the first time in years that I did not need to use the salt and pepper on my table. The food was perfectly seasoned for my liking. I will say that I could see some people (who are not use to their food having flavor) would think it is a tad on the salty side. I really believe that this friendly corporate chef, turned restaurant owner, has struck gold in a golden neighborhood. I do mean friendly, and if you dine here you will most likely be greeted by the chef at some point in the evening. You can tell he has a love for food, and wants to make sure his customers are enjoying his passion. I miss the old IBC that use to be housed here, but they could not have opened a better replacement. It is so great to see another really solid restaurant open in the area. This would be a great place for a first date to having a nice dinner with friends and family. They are working on getting the patio running, because of a snag they ran into with the city. Yes you heard me correctly another fantastic patio in Des Moines. I for one can not wait to enjoy sunday brunch out there. p.s. they do have a kids menu.
(5)Vicki H.
Enjoyed time with friends. Fairly small and crowed. We and reservations for 5:30 on a Friday and bald we did. Food was good and a good wine selection.
(4)Brooke P.
I am liking this place more and more each time I go! Meomi from Monterey, Ca is such a good glass of pinot nior, also the bruschetta is so good - it is more of a sampler bruschetta with 4 different types - really good!! Overall I really like their menu. Brunch is also very tasty!
(5)Alexis R.
Everything I imagined. It'll make me sound like a total wine-o, but I have been jonesing to go to this place since before I moved to Des Moines. It did not disappoint. A girlfriend and I waltzed in an hour before close and were greeted so kindly. They put up with us until we toodled out well after posted closing time. Not only did they put up with us, they conversed with us, suggested wines, and generally were totally welcoming. So impressed. Can't wait to give more of the wine list and the menu a try. Go! But not when I'm there. Don't want a crowd all the time now. Let's space this out a bit, people.
(5)Erika H.
Let me start off with overall a great experience and could have easily been 5 stars. Bartenders were courteous and spot on. Server was helpful in aiding our selections we split everything to try more. We started with the Calamari then the large apple harvest salad (both were delicious!) and finished with the 4 pork gnocchi which was also good. We decided against dessert and once that decision was made we were brought our checks. The server stopped by to pick them up but we hadn't put payment in she then informed us that she had been cut and would be back to pick up the checks. Which was done quickly after putting our cards in. The ran them we signed them and she picked them up without thanking us or stating should we need anything so and so could help us. Out the door she went. Funny thing is the friend that I was with used to be restaurant managers together.
(4)Christine T.
My husband and I had our first visit to Louie's this week, and it won't be our last. We stopped in for a late breakfast on a Saturday and found friendly, efficient wait staff and a great menu. Both of us ordered off the breakfast menu (it was 10 am) and our dishes were inventive and delicious. My husband asked to look at the dinner menu for fun and when he found an appetizer that sounded good (red pepper humus) he was able to order it as well! The menu is eclectic, American food with a nod to NOLA - oysters, shrimp and grits and croque madame. And where else in Des Moines can you get Lobster poutine? I can't wait to try it. It is a rare occurrence when I find a menu and I want to try almost everything on it, but I am going to try. I have read comments about the decor. Frankly, I don't get it. The seating is comfortable and the wall color warmed the room. It is certainly preferable to the modern concrete floor, metal table, operating room ambiance some of the newer restaurants. Try Louie's, we want to keep a quality restaurant here in our neighborhood, just don't tell all your friends, I want to be able to get a table too.
(5)Kristin S.
My boyfriend and I decided to try this for the first time before attending a lecture at Drake U. The staff was super friendly (and even seemed to be having fun while working) and the setting was comfortable and lovely at the same time. Our food arrived quickly - a salad and a burger - both fantastic. We informed our server that we needed to leave quickly, so he was prompt with the check. We will totally be going back.
(5)Jennifer W.
I'm a big fan. The place is just right down the street from me, which is awesome. We've needed a new local in the Beav for awhile. It is usually really busy, so you definitely want to call ahead for a reservation or to put your name in. My husband and I usually just sit at the bar when it's packed. You have a fun, talkative, crowd but can get some privacy too. The food has yet to disappoint. We've been for breakfast, lunch, appetizers and dinner. I haven't had anything I didn't like. Some of my favs have been: the flatbread, the lobster poutin, lobster mac and cheese (duh!), the cuban sandwich, and oddly the salmon caesar salad. Also, the cocktails are pretty good- mostly classic cocktails which I appreciate, some with minor variations. Obviously they have a good wine list. Lastly, the service has been really awesome every time we've been. I haven't seen that kind of consistency in awhile. Overall, I definitely recommend this place. It's casual, there is range of prices on food, the drinks are flowing and the food/service is great.
(5)Julia J.
We ate here last night, and now have a new favorite restaurant! Shannon gave us exceptional service, seating us quickly even though we were 30 min early for our reservation. The space in here is tight! We were a bit cramped in our table, but as soon as the couple next to us left, Shannon showed up to scoot the tables over and make more room. The food = fabulous. Salads and pastas did not disappoint. I had the shrimp and lobster Mac and cheese, and I can honestly say it was the best Mac and cheese I have ever eaten. The restaurant was loud, the waist staff was not the best in the world, but we felt welcome and at home. Top that off with mouth watering food at a reasonable price, and we are hooked. We are already making plans to return!
(5)Beth Y.
Just had my first experience at Louie's for lunch. It was very good overall, with excellent service and wonderful food. I had a grilled cheese and my dining partner had the pulled pork ruben. My sandwich was very good, but next time I will ask for tomatoes to be added. That's just my preference. The fries, I must say, were sublime. Light, crispy, and perfectly cooked. My friend loved his sandwich. The wait person was very helpful and attentive, and turned off the fan which was making us a bit chilly. I am looking forward to returning, especially when the patio opens next week. p.s. someone marked this place as "dressy," which doesn't really seem fitting. I think the atmosphere is more casual than dressy, but perhaps in the evening it is fancier. Try it! It's great to have a restaurant like this in the neighborhood.
(4)John S.
We went into this dinner very skeptical, I mean come on, the name is very random and strange. But man o man was it great. Reservations on a Friday night were a MUST! The Wine Club is a great idea, wish more places would do clubs like that The fact the place is built on a wine premise meant no screaming kids, I LOVE THAT!! The tables are very close together which is great because it gives the place a real European feel. The flat bread was fantastic!! No place is 100% perfect, the desert menu is a bit skimpy with small portions, and the side area with the couch for just wine drinking is strange and doesn't fit the main dining area feel
(5)Ray B.
Very nice- fresh food, solid service. Only knock might be the price point. Appreciate the expansive menu, the best I could find in that neighborhood.
(4)lttlod i.
I love this place! I've been here about 10 times, probably more, and I've pretty much gotten great service along with flavorful amazing food. I've had several items on the menu but do admit to sticking to what I like for the most part. I also like that this menu changes with the seasons, I think I have that right. It doesn't change completely but they add and replace a few things. Food: I've had the burger, of course, with the homemade ranch sauce and ruffle chips. It's a childhood fave of the owner. Last night I also tried the pastrami burger with sauted onions and swiss cheese. Amazing!! I know my pastrami and let me tell you that this was fantastic. I didn't even need the burger part, just a big hunk of pastrami mmmmm. Porcetta (sp?): also amazing and decedent! sooo filling but rich and pork just pork everywhere! I think the owner/chef won an award for this one. Tried my friends buffalo mac and cheese along with truffle mushroom shells sooooooooo good! I typically order the pork ragu flatbread along with the wedge salad that I highly recommend! I sub the blue cheese for fontina and it's soo good. Went for brunch the other week and ordered one of the eggs benedict, not the benedict but the other option with the thin ham. Amazing and rich. Like I said, literally everything this place serves just hits the spot and its all pretty reasonable. several weeks ago I had a 12 person bday party there. Jordan took great care of us and we all had a great time, especially me! Their wine selection is very good although I just refer to my friend who knows wine so I have only had good experiences with the wine they serve. I love that this place is up the street from me and that the owner lives in the neighborhood. It's just what this area needs. The owner/chef also comes by to check on us and is friendly. Atmosphere: this place is always busy! make a reservation, seriously. The patio is our fave! They made a good decision moving the giant booth and replacing it with more high top tables. I think most of the place is now high top tables. Good call! This is basically my go to place. It's the first place my friends and I think to go when we head out to eat. It's consistently awesome and always a great experience. I'll be back for sure. I'll probably be back in a couple of days : P
(5)Craig R.
Former bakery converted to restaurant. The space is very small and you feel everybody is on top of you; if you are waiting for a table your usually standing in the line of traffic which makes it difficult to have a conversation since you looking over your shoulder most of the time. Food is average and the customer service is poor. In fact, the last time I dined there, I was asked by the manager (or host??) if we could move over to the bar (w/ no seating) so they could seat a table of 4. This probably wouldn't have been a big deal but the fact I just took my last bite and still had a 1/2 bottle of wine after 45 min... it was very lame to ask.
(1)Shannon P.
Went on feb 23' 2013, had the roasted chicken Alfredo. It was very good. The sauce was very creamy and rich with a lot of chicken. Great service I think his name was Will or Bill, anyway he was very helpful with my groups wine selection. We will go back. It was kind of noisy but the Iowa state v Kansas game was getting ready to start.
(4)Mitch L.
I am from Omaha and met a person here from Cedar Rapids on a suggestion from a friend. I can tell you one thing, this place would be worth the drive back to Des Moines just to eat here. I put in a reservation on the suggestion of a friend for a Wednesday night meetup. The reservation was a good idea, because this place was packed at 7:15. I saw a few people complained about the decorations, but I thought they were completely fine and fit what the establishment is drying to be. Onto the food, what we all care about the most. My partner for the night and I had the bruschetta sampler platter. This was an amazing dish. It comes with 4 types of bruschetta: steak and blue cheese, tomato basil, mushroom and sweet peper, and some kind of oriental chicken. All four were great, but the standout was the steak and blue cheese. I could have ate a plate of these as my meal for the night. The tomato basil was a very very close second. As for dinner, I had the Lobster and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese. This dish should have been called "Wonders on my Tongue," because that is simply what it was. Imagine buttery, cheesey, lobster, shrimp goodness and multiply that flavor by 100. Only then can you begin to understand how good this dish was. Simply put, it is worth the drive and every penny of the $18 that was spent on this dish. The dish was so good, it overshadowed my partner for the nights dish of shrimp and grits. The shrimp and grits were well cooked and flavorful. There was a strong presence of bacon in the dish that brought it up another level. This was a great dish in its own-right, but just tough to give it props when it is next to something as wonderful as the lobster and shrimp Mac.
(5)Gigi F.
Wow! This place was AMAZING! It was packed - even on a Wednesday. A coworker and I stopped in for dinner. We were greeted warmly and shown to the bar. The bartender was so attentive and helpful (and very attractive!). We had the Lobster Frittes and the Mussel appetizers. A generous portion of mussels, well prepared, well seasoned and delicious. The lobster dish was gourmet comfort food, so Good. For the entrees, we had the Porchetta, a stuffed marinated pork loin so tender it fell apart with a fork, on a bed of roasted root veggies - cooked to perfection - not too hard, not too soft. We also had the Lobster and Gulf Shrimp Mac and Cheese. As great as that sounds, it tasted even better. For dessert, fresh, light pear pastry with fresh ice cream. Oh my goodness! If I lived in Des Moines, I'd eat there every other day!
(5)Chase A.
Great first date atmosphere. Order a bottle of vino and had the Lobster Poutine to start. Could have been a little heavier on the lobster and gravy, but was still great. For the main course I had the 4 Pork Gnocchi and was very pleased, although I left the restaurant still pretty hungry. Overall, great place and am looking forward to my next visit.
(4)Customer D.
We tried Louie's Restaurant Week special....intended to get people to try them and become loyal customers....big strike out. Our appetizer was inedible. First the manager said he would take it off the bill, then later came back and said he couldn't do that. One entree was pretty good (shrimp and grits). The 4-pork gnocchi seemed to be missing any discernable pork at all...it was a big disappointment. The dessert was utterly unremarkable. $50 + tax + tip = $60 totally wasted for poor to mediocre food and a server who didn't really have a clue.
(1)Jessica L.
I made my first trip to Louie's Wine Dive last night and I can't say that I am eagerly planning my next one. The ambiance is fine although it is a bit tacky to see the cooler/freezer door as you are sitting at the bar or relaxing in the pseudo-lounge area. Most of the staff was friendly - Tony at the door was welcoming and our bartender, Nick, was fantastic. The owner/chef, Jason, introduced himself which is a touch I appreciate. If only he was that nice to his staff... the set-up of the Wine Dive is such that bar patrons and many people in the dining area are able to see some and hear all of what is going on in the kitchen. Last night, that meant that we were subjected to hearing the owner continuously reprimand his cooks as if he is Beaverdale's answer to Gordon Ramsay. It was really a sad situation because not only did his staff have to be treated in this way, it was done in public so we had to watch them try to stay calm and on task. I am sure some people were probably nervous as to how their food was being prepared in such a hostile environment. The menu is fairly ambitious and for the restaurant's second week of being opened, I think everyone expects a reasonable amount of time to pass to allow for proper food preparation. It seemed that the owner was being unreasonably mean to his kitchen staff and we didn't hear of any errors except that he felt they were taking too long. If the wait time is too long then perhaps they need to do more things ahead of time, have more cooking space or even jumping in and helping and leading by example. I spoke with some of the diners and they each said they enjoyed the food and they didn't wait any longer than they expected. This guy needs to realize that he isn't running a burger joint - it appears that even though the word "dive" is in the title, he is trying to establish this venue as a fairly classy restaurant. And this means he needs to put his temper in check and learn how to properly coach and motivate his employees or quickly find a manager to do it for him. Two of the guys sitting at the bar next to us made a similar comment to one of the servers. His response was that the owner has to yell at them like that so they learn and he bets that the next time, they won't work the same way as they did tonight. My reply to that is the owner will be lucky if the staff even returns to work. There is no justification for that behavior and it is unfortunate that a server would reply that way to a customer's comment. The Wine Dive is young but if it wants to become a cornerstone of my Beaverdale community, this is the one thing that will prevent it from doing so. As a customer, I have a very hard time convincing myself to return and spend my money to support tyrants regardless the high quality product and customer service.
(3)Lim K.
Tried shrimp and grits. It had good flavor; however, it was runny and was not the dish I expected. It was more like cheese soup with eggs. Two stars for food and five stars for service.
(3)Misty H.
Was dissappointed when I saw the bakery was gone that used to be in this location but love wine so out of curiosity I wandered in. I was simply going to look at the menu since I was wearing jean shorts and a tank top and the place looked nice with cherry wood tables and chairs with bottles of wine on the back wall next to the kitchen although the patio didn't look open yet. The wall in the back could use some color or more design but I liked the place overall. As soon as I walked in and asked for a menu I felt welcomed by the employees ease and smile and so I looked around and most people there seemed to be wearing casual clothes. I was kind of hungry so I sat down at the bar and noticed on the menu a cobb salad. I love cobb salad so thought it wouldn't hurt to go ahead and try it but I am kind of picky as I love the service and cobb salad at Flemings. John the guy behind the bar introduced himself and handed me a wine menu so I thought what the heck I'll go ahead and get a glass. Had a great glass of Pinot Noir he let me sample first .The salad came out it was really good, I prefer more blue cheese but I was still impressed, the green goddess dressing was yummy and the salad was cold and crisp and on such a hot day it was perfect. A lady walked in doing the same thing just looking in curiously and John welcomed her with the same kind smile so she asked for a menu just to look at and as I was sitting at the bar next to where she stood she asked me if the salad was good. I told her it was so she sat a few seats down an ordered the salmon salad. Her and I ended up chatting it up while she was waiting for her salad. The owner Jason came over and checked to see how we were doing and talked with us for a bit. I asked Jason about the patio and he said they were going to have it open soon they had just had some paperwork they had to get done first. I watched him go back in the kitchen and work on food preparation with his staff. It was nice to be able to see my food being made, you can see the cooks from the room which really put my mind at ease. I have gone several times as it is nearby all my errands and have loved the food. The second time I came Jason recalled me right away with a smile chatted for a bit even though I could tell he was busy and invited me to come back again. The staff all at one point checked on me at the bar each time I go. I feel so at home every time I come, it has quickly become my new favorite place to eat. I brought my teenager in to try the food the last night and she had the salmon salad since I told her the lady I sat next to had loved hers and for dessert my daughter had the graham cracker smores which has a small fire in a metal holder to roast the marshmallows she thought it was awesome. I had the flat iron steak it was so good and they let me switch out the fries for the quinoa as I am a bit of a health nut. Nick and John are so much fun behind the bar and it was packed for a tuesday night. Every employee I have met there has been helpful and so nice. I have been a part of many a soft opening as I moved around and waitressed for 15 years and the employees and owners seem to get along no different than any other soft opening. If anything they seem to be happy and joking when things die down and serious and down to business when work needs to get done to make sure the customers come first. My daughter asked if we could go eat there again this weekend already. Yeah we'll be back.
(5)katherine l.
Went to Louie's last night for some drinks and had an ok time. I will venture back to try the food but might wait a few weeks until they work out some of the kinks. I felt they were pretty proud of some of their wine prices. I also ordered a Louie Douie Martini and it was pretty lack luster. Very tasteless and mostly a bitter taste. The ambiance was a little lack luster. I know it had dive in the name but the green and mauve reminded me of the 80's. We were seated close to the restroom and all I could smell was bathroom cleaner. Which I'm thankful for a clean bathroom, but was a bit over powering. We ordered a cheese plate to share and when our server brought it out he had no idea what cheese was what and had to call someone over. Don't you think you might have asked the kitchen before you brought it out? I think it'll be an ok place but their staff needs a bit more education (at least the waiter we had), and if I'm going to go spend 50-100 bucks on after drinks alone (for 4 people we had two drinks each), I was expecting a bit more polished experience.
(3)Kris D.
I thought I'd update that I've been back to this restaurant twice. I will say, the food is just so freaking good! The service has definitely improved with time. I will continue to be a repeat customer, and I recommend it to my friends.
(4)Brian R.
My first visit to Louie's. The other reviews helped me decide to go here. Went with my wife and had some good food. So overall the service was good, the food was good and its a pretty nice environment in there. My only complaint is that you are sitting right on top of one another at the tables, or at least where I was sitting. So maybe try and go with a group instead of just 2.
(4)Gerald Z.
Ok..this place is awesome. Took my wife here on date night. It was packed on a friday night at 8 as it should be. They were so nice though and sat us at the bar and we enjoyed a few cocktails while we waited for our table. The bartenders were very nice and took the time to explain some of the different cocktails to us. the food was tremendous, unfortunately they had run out of the pig stix when we arrived but we ordered the cheese flight and pate to start...yum. great mix of cheeses and a cherry/jalapeno jam. My wife then had a gnocchi with pork ragout and i had the fish and chips. the world stopped when i had their fish and chips.... WOW...these are probably the best fish and chips I have EVER had. Crisp outside, flakey inside not greasy at all. The fish was fresh and moist. I could have ordered four of those. that's the only complaint i had is that there wasn't enough. My wife and i devoured the fish and chips...wow...can't say enough about those. I never thought there would be better fish and chips than those i get at the royal mile, but I have to say these are BETTER. Much better in fact. We finished with a chocolate chip cookie sundae each which was unremarkable but satisfying. this is a great joint, love this place. ORDER THE FISH AND CHIPS.
(4)Steven S.
Great food and fairly priced. Was not to sure about the place when I walked in. My perception changed very quickly. The service was wonderful and the wine and food fantastic
(5)