It’s that time of year again – it’s the season when we are no longer couped up in our homes avoiding the bitter cold and icy roads. It’s when we pack up our long johns, stow our winter boots and throw caution to the wind when leaving the house without a jacket. And do you know what that means? Patio season.

As a self-proclaimed foodie, I have a deep appreciation for patio season. What’s better than gathering outside with some friends, good drinks, great food, and if you’re lucky, a few pups? I’ll tell you what – nothing.

We’re lucky to be located in the East Village, because we’re surrounded by a variety of bars and restaurants with great patios, most of which are within walking distance. To honor our shared love for patio season, we went to the polls and casted our votes. I present to you, dear reader, the top 5 bars and restaurants with patios in Des Moines according to all of us at Two Rivers Marketing.

Eatery A patio

1. Eatery A
 (Photo credit: Eatery A Facebook)

Does this surprise anyone? Because it shouldn’t. In total transparency, this is the patio I voted for, and I did so for multiple reasons: there’s plenty of seating, I’ve never had bad service, and they have some of the best food in town. If you have yet to check it out, it’s conveniently located off Ingersoll with a parking lot behind the building. I recommend going during happy hour for half off beer, wine, and pizza (get the #12) or for brunch (try the savory croque madame bread pudding)!

The Republic on Grand patio

2. The Republic on Grand (Photo credit: The Republic on Grand Instagram)

If you love patios, The Republic on Grand is the place for you. Situated on the rooftop of the AC Hotel, it has a great view of downtown and can be used during the summer and winter months (enclosed, of course). The Republic is a newer edition to the Des Moines scene, but their craft cocktails have been well received by the masses. In addition to their bourbons and brews, they also serve up (what looks like) a tasty lunch and brunch.

El Bait Shop patio

3. El Bait Shop
 (Photo credit: El Bait Shop Instagram)

El Bait Shop is a staple in Des Moines, and a spot we patron after our annual Iowa Cubs outing. It boasts having the largest selection of American craft beers with 262 on tap! It’s often a pitstop for many bikers who are out enjoying the trails, and it’s also a great spot to stop for a beer and food for those of us who are less athletically inclined. In addition to having a great outdoor seating area, they also have monthly happy hours and fun runs.

Confluence Brewing patio

4. Confluence
 Brewing Company (Photo credit: Confluence Brewing Company Instagram)

A dog-friendly patio with board games?! Sign me up! Confluence is a beloved brewery just outside of downtown that exemplifies the realized dream of a man from small-town Iowa. It’s conveniently located near the Gray’s Lake bike trail and features a spacious beer garden. They also support a variety of events like bags tournaments, bike rides, and trivia.

Malo patio

5. Malo
 (Photo credit: Malo Facebook)

I’m a fan of Malo, it’s a great destination for Latin food and delicious cocktails. It’s also a great place to sit and watch the bustle of downtown. It conveniently shares space with the Des Moines Social Club, so there’s never a shortage of energy on that block. In addition to boasting tasty tacos, Malo serves up a good margarita that can be enjoyed outdoors when you can snag a seat on their patio.

And there you have it. Straight from our associates to your screen, these are the top 5 bars and restaurants with patios in Des Moines. That being said, I feel like there is one additional patio that didn’t make our top 5, but should definitely be mentioned.

300 Rooftop Bar patio

Bonus: 300 Craft and Rooftop (Photo credit: 300 Craft and Rooftop Instagram)

I couldn’t finish this list without including 300 Craft and Rooftop. As you may have guessed from its name, this bar has a rooftop patio with a great view of downtown, perfect for those spring and summer nights when you’re looking to enjoy a drink outside with friends. Aside from the great outdoor space, they have a variety of drinks ensuring everyone in your group will be happy. Once you’re done enjoying the rooftop patio, you can head downstairs and grab some food at Blaze Pizza, DSM Brew, Jimmy John’s, or Fuzzy’s!

With that, we’ve wrapped up our list of the top 6 bars and restaurants with patios in Des Moines. If you have marketing skills and enjoy working near awesome patios, check out what opportunities we have open!