The Westwood neighborhood in Des Moines might be best known for its lush residential streets, but those in the know recognize it as a genuine food lover’s destination. From hip cafés to family-owned bistros and delightful bakeries, Westwood’s dining scene is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re seeking a cozy breakfast spot, an elegant dinner, or late-night bites, Westwood invites you to taste the diverse flavors that make this Des Moines enclave a true culinary hotspot.
The Heart of Westwood: Dining Destinations to Explore
While Westwood is tucked away west of downtown Des Moines, its main thoroughfares—especially Ashworth Road and Grand Avenue—are dotted with eateries representing an impressive range of cuisines, price points, and vibes. Here’s your comprehensive guide to savoring Westwood.
Standout Restaurants: Elevated Eats and Local Favorites
- Westwood Table (Ashworth Rd near 50th St)
- *Cuisine*: Modern American
- *Price Range*: $$
- This beloved bistro is a go-to for locals seeking refined comfort food. House-made pastas, seasonal salads, and a knockout steak frites share menu space with unexpected specials like smoked duck breast and wild mushroom risotto. Their commitment to local sourcing shines, and the warm, contemporary ambiance makes it a top pick for date night.
- Casa Di Angelo (Grand Ave & 56th St)
- *Cuisine*: Italian
- *Price Range*: $$
- Family recipes drive the menu at this cozy spot where you’ll find perfectly al dente pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and hearty cioppino. Don’t skip the house tiramisu for dessert—a neighborhood legend.
- Pho 515 (Grand Ave corridor)
- *Cuisine*: Vietnamese
- *Price Range*: $
- This no-frills spot is a hidden gem for pho lovers. Steaming bowls of beef broth, packed with tender noodles and fresh herbs, draw in both longtime regulars and curious newcomers. Try the banh mi and fresh spring rolls—the best in West Des Moines.
Cafés and Bakeries: Morning-to-Afternoon Indulgence
- Westwood Pour & Pastry (Ashworth Rd)
- *Cuisine*: Café/Bakery
- *Price Range*: $
- This bright and welcoming café doubles as a bakery, where the smell of fresh croissants wafts out each morning. From perfect pour-over coffee to gooey cinnamon rolls and flaky fruit danishes, it’s the ultimate breakfast or afternoon snack stop. Locals swear by the signature honey-lavender latte.
- Greens & Grains Café (near Grand Ave & 52nd St)
- *Cuisine*: Healthy/Vegetarian
- *Price Range*: $
- For those seeking lighter fare, this cheerful neighborhood joint specializes in smoothie bowls, pressed juices, vibrant salads, and grain bowls. The vegan carrot cake is a not-so-secret indulgence that keeps even non-vegans coming back.
Food Trucks and Global Fare
- La Chiva Mobile Bistro (rotates on Ashworth Rd near the community park)
- *Cuisine*: Colombian Street Food
- *Price Range*: $
- This bright, colorful food truck is famous for authentic arepas, empanadas, and sweet plantain treats. On weekends, lines form early for hearty breakfast arepas stuffed with eggs, cheese, and avocado. Find their latest location and hours via their social media pages.
- Tikka Junction (Grand Ave food truck pod)
- *Cuisine*: Indian Fusion
- *Price Range*: $
- Westwood’s food truck pod is a must for adventurous eaters. Tikka Junction serves up spicy chicken tikka masala burritos, samosa fries, and mango lassi that gives big city trucks a run for their money.
Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Delights
- Lilac Lane Tea Room (tucked off Lilac Lane, just west of 56th St)
- *Cuisine*: Afternoon Tea/Light Lunch
- *Price Range*: $$
- This enchanting hideaway is perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Dainty finger sandwiches, fresh scones with house-made preserves, and elegantly plated desserts are served in a sun-filled garden room—a charming departure from the usual lunch scene.
- Sunrise Ethiopian Café (corner of Ashworth Rd & 49th St)
- *Cuisine*: Ethiopian
- *Price Range*: $
- A cozy, family-owned spot where you can sample injera, spicy doro wat, and lentil sambusas. Vegan and vegetarian options abound, and the welcoming owners are always happy to recommend their favorites.
Local Traditions and Community Flavors
Westwood’s food traditions run deep, marked by regular community bake sales, farmers markets, and seasonal food festivals hosted at Westwood Park. The annual neighborhood food crawl, typically in early autumn, gives residents a chance to sample small plates from participating restaurants and food trucks—bringing the whole community together in celebration of local flavor.
Sweet Treats and Dessert Finds
- Sprinkle & Swirl Ice Creamery (just off Grand Ave)
- *Cuisine*: Ice Cream/Dessert
- *Price Range*: $
- With inventive flavors (think lavender honeycomb or brown butter pecan) and classic sundaes, Sprinkle & Swirl is a family favorite and a perfect post-dinner stop. Vegan and dairy-free options make it a hit with all ages and dietary preferences.
How to Explore the Westwood Food Scene
For a true taste of Westwood, start your day with coffee and a bakery treat, stroll along Grand Ave to window-shop and snack, circle back for a breezy lunch at a food truck or café, and finish with a memorable dinner at Westwood Table or Casa Di Angelo. Whether you’re a longtime West Des Moines resident or a first-time visitor, Westwood’s food scene offers a delicious blend of comfort, creativity, and neighborly charm.
So grab your appetite and plan your food adventure in Westwood—the neighborhood where every meal tells a story.