You’ve booked the wedding venue, the caterer, the florist, the planner, the decorator, the bridal party—you’ve done it all! But, what about your rehearsal dinner? YIKES. Don’t panic. Des Moines has the best (in our humble opinion) food scene in the state. You, your wedding party, and family will be blown away by the endless options. So, where to start?

We’ve broken down our best foodie spots for rehearsal dinners, depending on your unique vibes! Take a look and as always, let us know if you have a suggestion!

Written by: Madison Stano, Des Moines Girl Contributor / Photo by Fabio Sangregorio on Unsplash

Rehearsal Dinner Venues

801 Chophouse

interior of 801 chophouse dining room

Is there anything “grander” than celebrating the night before in Des Moines’ iconic 801 building? 801 Chophouse is probably one of the most premier steakhouses in the city. In the heart of downtown, this venue is definitely for the boujee bride. They offer four different private dining options, all with AV equipment for special speeches or toasts. 

Check it out.

Aposto

tablescape of private event at Aposto

Cozy. Intimate. Aposto is one of Des Moines’ best kept secrets. For the bride with a little mystery and love for fine dining, you can rent a private event space in this Victorian mansion for your rehearsal dinner. Aposto boasts their internationally-recognized wine cellar and James Beard-nominated kitchen. If you’re looking to be the “hostess with the mostest’, Aposto is for you.

All the details.

Centro 

interior of Centro with people dining

In the mood for New York-style pizzas, salads, antipasto, and more? For the bride who has a flair for Italian cuisine and exquisite taste, Centro might just be for you. Known for upscale Italian dining, Centro can host events in a private dining room. They offer a full menu of options for any budget. Their specialties are of course their mouth-watering pastas and pizzas, but don’t miss their hearty selections of steak, seafood, and so much more.

Get the deets.

Django

tablescape of a table at Django for a private event

For the bride who has a wide palate, consider Django, Des Moines’ premier French restaurant. Focused on a flair for cuisine and decor, Django offers two different private dining options. The on-site dining room (perfect for 20 people or under) or the Reinhardt Room (can seat up to 80 people) for those with a bigger rehearsal dinner guest list. 

All the info.

Fresko

a low-lit dining room in Fresko

All about farm to table, Fresko is the perfect place for brides who have a vested interest for sustainability and locally-sourced products. With two different private event spaces to choose from, Fresko can accommodate any party! Not to mention, they also help in providing linens, decor, and so much more.

All the details.

The Latin King

outdoor patio area of Latin King with cozy lighting

Another Italian classic, The Latin King is for the Tuscan-loving romantic bride. Their dinner rooms are perfect for a rehearsal dinner with an indoor/outdoor space and Mediterranean-style furniture. Enjoy a delicious Italian dinner with the ones you love most before your special day. A dining room can be reserved for parties of 15 people or more.

See the deets.

St. Kilda Collective

private dining room in St. Kilda

Located in Valley Junction, St. Kilda Collective is perfect for a bride looking for a lowkey, yet elevated atmosphere. Their in-house event coordinator can assist you in planning your rehearsal dinner from conception to fruition! Their private event space includes a stationary bar, specialty china/glassware, and so much more.

Check it out.

The Iowa Taproom

interior of private dining bar in Iowa Taproom

For the bride who’s all about a cheeky pint or looking for a more laid back rehearsal dinner, the Iowa Taproom might be your go-to. Located right in the East Village, Iowa Taproom has a TON of good beer on tap to keep you and your guests happy. Work with the venue to choose your menu option that works best for your rehearsal dinner dreams.

(Psst, you can have your wedding here too!)

Take a look.

Either/Or

tablescape of private event in Either/Or

Are you a bride who prefers a more unique, eclectic, and dare we say “mid-century modern” vibe? Either/Or’s event space offers a cozy atmosphere with your own private bar, a garage door to the patio, and more! So no matter what time of year your big day may be, Either/Or’s space is accommodating and their food is fire!

All the details.

Big Grove Brewery

Crescent room at Big Grove

Another brewery? Beer brides, rejoice! We all know Des Moines has no shortage of breweries, which is great if you’re looking for a space to host a party. Big Grove Brewery has a private event space (and patio area) that is made for hosting. Choose what food to have, your event details, and let your guests enjoy all the local IPAs and drafts Big Grove has to offer.

Check it out.

Smash Park

aerial view of the vense, Smash Park

Okay, okay, you might think we’re crazy with this one—but don’t knock it till you try it! What better way to kick off your wedding weekend than with your favorite people, good food, good drinks, pickleball, and arcade games? Smash Park is the perfect place for the eccentric bride who’s focused on fun. 

See their private event options.

Didn’t see your favorite restaurant here? Be sure to give them a call! Some restaurants don’t publicly advertise private event hosting on their website, so it’s always worth a check!