Step inside the grandeur of the Proudfoot & Bird, a crown jewel of Des Moines and the restaurant recently named the “most beautiful” in Iowa for 2025. Situated within the historic Hotel Fort Des Moines, this restaurant envelops guests in timeless elegance, historic charm, and modern culinary excellence—a feast not just for the palate but also for the eyes.
Historic Splendor Meets Modern Luxury
Originally opened in 1918, Hotel Fort Des Moines was the most expensive hotel ever built in Iowa at the time, and after careful renovation, its Proudfoot & Bird restaurant honors this storied past. Named after the hotel’s renowned architects, the dining room showcases marble staircases, ornate gold-inlaid ceilings, and a grand circular bar.
These details transport visitors to an era of glamour and opulence rarely found in Midwestern dining rooms. The interiors glimmer with a Gatsby-like nostalgia, yet the ambiance never feels stuffy—rather, it’s inviting and utterly photogenic.
Dining Amid Architectural Masterpieces
The experience at Proudfoot & Bird is one of visual delight. Upon entering, diners are met with intricate moldings, original terrazzo flooring, and dramatic lighting that highlight both the historic architecture and meticulously plated cuisine. Splashes of emerald and deep woods in the furnishings, accented by art-deco fixtures, create a sophisticated warmth.
Menu: Classic Technique, Modern Taste
Proudfoot & Bird matches visual splendor with a menu of equal caliber. The kitchen celebrates local ingredients in dishes that are refined yet comforting. Guests rave about signature plates like Maine lobster risotto, butternut squash ragù, and dry-aged Iowa beef. Seasonal salads and decadent desserts change regularly, often inspired by the bounty of Iowa’s farms and fields.
The beverage program is as elegant as the surroundings, with meticulously crafted cocktails and a thoughtfully curated wine list that complements every course.
Hospitality That Elevates the Experience
It isn’t just the décor and food that garner raves. Service at Proudfoot & Bird is consistently noted for its grace and attentiveness, making each meal—from date nights to celebratory gatherings—feel truly special.
Why It Stands Out Among Iowa’s Dining Scene
While Iowa boasts other notable restaurants—like Mulberry Street Tavern, known for its rich wood paneling and cozy atmosphere—Proudfoot & Bird ascends to the “most beautiful” tier for its rare combination of historic architecture, old-world glamour, and refined dining within a setting steeped in local history.
Tips for Visiting
Reservations Recommended: Given its acclaim, reserving a table in advance is wise.
Attire: Business casual fits the elegant yet comfortable setting.
Perfect for: Special occasions, romantic dinners, or any time you want to savor both Iowa’s history and its best cuisine.
Proudfoot & Bird isn’t just a meal—it’s an immersion into the splendor of early 20th-century design, contemporary fine dining, and the warm welcome of Iowa’s hospitality scene. For anyone seeking a restaurant as breathtaking as it is delicious, this Des Moines gem is unrivaled in the Hawkeye State.
Sources
[1] https://www.lovefood.com/gallerylist/256839/the-most-beautiful-restaurant-in-every-us-state
[2] https://1440wrok.com/ixp/675/p/most-beautiful-restaurant-iowa-des-moines/
[3] https://www.aol.com/iowa-restaurant-named-one-most-111754169.html
[4] https://www.tripadvisor.in/Restaurants-g38020-Iowa_City_Iowa.html
[5] https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=5+Star+Restaurants&find_loc=Iowa+City%2C+IA
