Unearth The Voyage
Tucked away in Des Moines, Iowa, Simon’s has become the dining destination that everyone is talking about. This polished bistro serves up American and Italian classics that keep locals coming back for more, and reservations fill up fast.
With a 4.8-star rating from nearly 1,900 reviews, it’s clear that Simon’s has mastered the art of fine dining without the fuss.
A Neighborhood Gem with Big-City Charm
Simon’s sits on Franklin Avenue, blending seamlessly into a Des Moines neighborhood while offering an upscale dining experience you’d expect in a major metropolitan area. The exterior might not scream “fancy restaurant,” but step inside and you’ll find a warm, inviting space that strikes the perfect balance between casual comfort and refined elegance.
Locals love that they don’t have to drive downtown or dress to the nines to enjoy exceptional food.
The restaurant’s unassuming location makes it feel like a well-kept secret, even though word has spread far and wide. You won’t find flashy signage or valet parking here.
Instead, Simon’s lets its reputation speak for itself through consistently excellent service and memorable meals.
This approach has created a loyal following of diners who appreciate quality without pretension. The atmosphere feels welcoming rather than intimidating, making it perfect for everything from date nights to celebrating special occasions.
Simon’s proves that fine dining doesn’t require stuffy formality or an exclusive zip code to deliver an outstanding culinary experience worth planning ahead for.
Reservations Fill Up Lightning Fast
Getting a table at Simon’s requires planning ahead because locals know this spot is worth the wait. The restaurant opens at 5 PM most evenings, and prime dining slots disappear quickly, especially on weekends when they stay open until 10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.
Smart diners book their reservations days or even weeks in advance to secure their preferred time.
The popularity isn’t just hype—it’s earned through years of delivering consistently excellent experiences. Call their number at 515-255-3725 or visit their website to make arrangements.
Walk-ins might get lucky during slower weekday evenings, but counting on spontaneity here often leads to disappointment.
The restaurant closes on Sundays, so plan accordingly if you’re hoping for a weekend meal. Weeknight reservations from Monday through Thursday tend to be slightly easier to snag, with closing time at 9 PM giving you a comfortable window for dinner.
The high demand reflects Simon’s reputation as Des Moines’ go-to spot for special occasions and quality meals. Booking ahead shows you’re serious about experiencing what makes this place special, and it ensures you won’t miss out on the culinary magic happening in this bustling kitchen.
American and Italian Classics Done Right
Simon’s menu reads like a greatest hits collection of comfort food elevated to art. From perfectly cooked steaks to traditional spaghetti and meatballs, the kitchen takes familiar dishes and executes them with precision and care.
You won’t find molecular gastronomy or trendy fusion experiments here—just honest, delicious food prepared the way it should be.
The Italian offerings showcase classic techniques and quality ingredients that transport you straight to a cozy trattoria. Meanwhile, the American selections prove that timeless dishes never go out of style when handled by skilled chefs.
Each plate arrives looking beautiful without being fussy, and the portions satisfy without overwhelming.
This dual focus on two beloved cuisines gives diners plenty of options whether they’re craving red sauce and pasta or a juicy cut of meat. The kitchen staff clearly understands that great cooking doesn’t always mean reinventing the wheel.
Sometimes it means perfecting recipes that have stood the test of time and delivering them with consistency and passion. The menu strikes that rare balance between offering variety and maintaining focus, ensuring that everything coming out of the kitchen meets high standards regardless of what you order.
Nearly 1,900 Five-Star Reviews Tell the Story
Numbers don’t lie, and Simon’s impressive 4.8-star rating from 1,897 reviews speaks volumes about consistency and quality. Achieving near-perfect ratings with that many reviews means the restaurant delivers excellence night after night, not just occasionally.
Diners rave about everything from the food to the service, creating a reputation that continues to grow.
Reading through reviews reveals common themes: attentive staff, perfectly prepared dishes, and an atmosphere that makes every meal feel special. Negative reviews are rare, and when they appear, management typically responds thoughtfully and professionally.
This level of customer satisfaction doesn’t happen by accident—it requires dedication from everyone on the team.
The volume of positive feedback also indicates that Simon’s has staying power in a competitive restaurant market. Places can get lucky with a few great reviews, but maintaining this standard across thousands of dining experiences demonstrates real commitment to excellence.
First-time visitors often become regulars after experiencing what all the fuss is about. The reviews serve as social proof that booking a table here won’t disappoint, making the effort to secure a reservation feel worthwhile before you even walk through the door.
Polished Bistro Atmosphere Without the Stuffiness
Walking into Simon’s feels like entering a space designed for adults who appreciate quality but don’t want to feel uncomfortable or out of place. The bistro setting offers polish and sophistication without the rigid formality that can make some fine-dining spots feel unwelcoming.
You can relax here while still enjoying an upscale experience.
The décor balances modern touches with timeless elements, creating an environment that never feels dated or trendy. Lighting sets the mood perfectly—bright enough to see your food clearly but dim enough to create intimacy.
Tables are spaced thoughtfully, giving diners privacy without making the room feel empty or cold.
This careful attention to ambiance means you can have a conversation without shouting over noise, yet the restaurant maintains enough energy to feel lively rather than stuffy. The bar area offers a different vibe for those who prefer a more casual perch, while the dining room caters to those seeking a traditional table experience.
Simon’s understands that atmosphere matters as much as food when creating memorable meals. The space feels grown-up and refined without making guests feel like they need to be on their best behavior every second, striking that difficult balance that keeps people coming back repeatedly.
The Bar Scene Adds Extra Appeal
Simon’s bar isn’t just a waiting area for diners—it’s a destination in its own right. Skilled bartenders craft cocktails with the same attention to detail that the kitchen applies to entrees.
Whether you prefer classic drinks or something more creative, the bar menu offers options that complement the food perfectly.
Many regulars start their evening at the bar with a pre-dinner drink, enjoying the more relaxed atmosphere before moving to their table. Others choose to dine at the bar entirely, appreciating the front-row seat to the action and the opportunity to chat with bartenders.
The bar seating fills up quickly on busy nights, proving its popularity among guests.
Wine selection receives careful curation, with bottles chosen to pair well with both American and Italian menu items. Beer options include craft selections alongside familiar favorites, ensuring everyone finds something they enjoy.
The bar’s layout encourages conversation without feeling cramped, and the bartenders strike that perfect balance between attentive and unobtrusive. For those dining alone or couples seeking a less formal experience, bar seating offers all the quality of the dining room with a more laid-back energy that makes the evening feel spontaneous and fun.
Affordable Luxury at Moderate Prices
Simon’s carries a double dollar sign price rating, meaning you’ll spend more than fast food but won’t need a trust fund to dine here. This sweet spot pricing makes fine dining accessible for regular occasions rather than just once-a-year splurges.
The value proposition stands out when you consider the quality of food, service, and atmosphere you receive.
Entrees are priced fairly for the portion sizes and ingredient quality, and many diners find the cost reasonable given the overall experience. You’re not just paying for food—you’re investing in a complete evening out that feels special without breaking the bank.
This pricing strategy has helped Simon’s build a broad customer base beyond just the wealthy.
Compared to similar restaurants in larger cities, Simon’s offers exceptional value while maintaining high standards. The moderate pricing means you can visit more frequently rather than saving it exclusively for major celebrations.
Couples on date night, friends gathering for birthdays, and families marking milestones all find the prices manageable. This accessibility contributes to the restaurant’s popularity and explains why reservations fill up so quickly—people can actually afford to return regularly and often do.
That Famous Spaghetti and Meatballs
Among all the menu items at Simon’s, the spaghetti and meatballs has achieved near-legendary status among regulars. This seemingly simple dish showcases everything the restaurant does well: quality ingredients, proper technique, and respect for tradition.
The meatballs are tender and flavorful, the pasta is cooked perfectly al dente, and the sauce tastes like it simmered for hours.
Many first-time visitors order this dish based on recommendations from friends or online reviews, and it rarely disappoints. The portion is generous without being excessive, leaving room for dessert if you’re inclined.
It’s comfort food that doesn’t taste heavy or greasy—just satisfying and delicious.
The dish proves that Simon’s doesn’t need to get fancy to impress diners. Sometimes the best meal is a classic prepared with care and served with pride.
Regulars often order it repeatedly, finding comfort in its consistency and quality. For those hesitant about trying new restaurants, starting with this familiar favorite offers a safe entry point that typically exceeds expectations.
The spaghetti and meatballs represents Simon’s philosophy in one bowl: take something people love, do it exceptionally well, and serve it with genuine hospitality that makes guests feel valued and satisfied.
Steak Cooked to Perfection Every Time
Ordering steak at a restaurant always involves some risk, but Simon’s kitchen has earned a reputation for nailing the temperature and preparation consistently. Whether you prefer your meat rare, medium, or well-done, it arrives at your table cooked exactly as requested.
The cuts are quality selections, properly aged and seasoned to enhance rather than mask the natural beef flavor.
Sides accompanying the steaks complement rather than compete with the main attraction, and presentation shows care without being overly fussy. The kitchen understands that great steak doesn’t need elaborate preparation—it needs proper sourcing, correct cooking, and thoughtful seasoning.
Simple techniques executed flawlessly beat complicated preparations done poorly every time.
Steak lovers in Des Moines regularly cite Simon’s as their go-to spot for a reliable, delicious beef experience. The consistency matters tremendously when you’re spending good money on a premium cut.
You won’t find yourself sending back an overcooked steak or dealing with a tough, chewy disappointment. The kitchen takes pride in their meat preparation, and it shows in every bite.
For those who judge restaurants by how well they handle steak, Simon’s passes the test with flying colors, delivering satisfying meals that justify the moderate prices and advance planning required.
Service That Makes You Feel Like a Regular
Simon’s staff has mastered the art of attentive service without hovering or interrupting conversations at awkward moments. Servers know the menu thoroughly and offer genuine recommendations rather than just pushing expensive items.
They read tables well, understanding when diners want interaction and when they prefer to be left alone to enjoy their meal and company.
First-time visitors often comment on how welcomed they feel, even though they’re surrounded by regulars who clearly have established relationships with staff. This inclusive approach to hospitality makes everyone feel valued regardless of how often they visit.
The team remembers details and preferences without being creepy about it, striking that perfect balance.
Training is clearly prioritized here, as service quality remains consistent across different servers and visits. Bad service can ruin even the best food, but Simon’s understands that the complete package matters.
Drinks get refilled proactively, courses arrive at proper intervals, and special requests are handled gracefully. The staff genuinely seems to enjoy their work, which translates into better experiences for guests.
This level of service excellence contributes significantly to the restaurant’s stellar reviews and loyal customer base, proving that hospitality matters as much as culinary skill in creating memorable dining experiences.
