Craft Beer In Des Moines: Where To Buy?

If you're looking to buy craft beer in Des Moines, Iowa, you're in luck! The city is home to a thriving craft brewery industry, with 20 breweries in the region. For those interested in exploring the local beer scene, there are plenty of options to choose from, including well-known spots like Confluence Brewing Company and Exile Brewing Co., as well as newer establishments like Big Grove Brewery & Taproom and Barn Town Brewing. For those who prefer to shop at liquor or grocery stores, there are several options with good selections of craft beer, including Hy-Vee, Central City Liquors, and University Liquors. So whether you're looking to visit a taproom, a brewery, or just pick up a six-pack from the store, Des Moines has you covered!

Top-rated craft beer stores in Des Moines

Des Moines is home to a thriving craft brewery industry, with several top-rated stores and breweries offering a wide range of unique craft beers. Here are some of the best places to find craft beer in the city:

Confluence Brewing Company

An established name in the Des Moines craft beer scene, Confluence Brewing Company was founded in 2012 and has since become a leader in the Iowa beer industry. With 36 beers on tap and four-packs for sale, Confluence offers a diverse selection to suit different tastes. Some of their most famous brews include Milk Man Stout and Farmer John's Multi-Grain Ale. Located on Thomas Beck Road, Confluence is conveniently situated near the Meredith Trail and Kruidenier Trail, making it easily accessible for those looking to enjoy a craft beer after a leisurely walk or hike.

Hy-Vee Wine & Spirits

Hy-Vee is a well-known grocery store chain in the Des Moines area that has gained a reputation for offering an extensive selection of craft beers. While different locations may vary, the Hy-Vee stores in Urbandale, Jordan Creek Parkway, and downtown Des Moines are particularly noted for their impressive craft beer options. With a wide variety of local and regional beers, Hy-Vee is a convenient option for those looking to pick up some unique brews during their grocery shopping trip.

515 Brewing Company

515 Brewing Company, located on University Avenue in Clive, is another excellent choice for craft beer enthusiasts. Founded in 2013, this brewery has steadily expanded its operations, adding new barrels and innovative beers to its lineup. Their Mexican Spring Wheat Beer, Li'l Tart Sour, and DSM Pils Pilsner are must-tries. 515 Brewing Company is situated near the Clive Greenbelt Trail, providing a picturesque setting for those who want to pair their craft beer experience with a scenic walk.

Big Grove Brewery & Taproom

Big Grove Brewery & Taproom is a popular craft beer destination in Des Moines, known for its hazy IPAs and classic pale ales. Their taproom in the city offers a full-service restaurant with healthy dishes prepared by executive chef Benjamin Smart. The adjoining 12,000-square-foot patio provides stunning views of the downtown Des Moines skyline. Their popular beers include Easy Eddy, a hazy IPA with notes of pineapple and mango, and Arms Race, a classic pale ale with a hoppy punch.

Lua Brewing

Lua Brewing, located in the Sherman Hill neighbourhood of Des Moines, is a relatively new addition to the city's craft beer scene. Founded in 2019, Lua offers a long list of beers, including the Tulpa West Coast Pilsner, Cosmic Giggle Hazy Pale Ale, and Loud as Hope Hefeweizen. Lua also features food prepared by chef James Arbaugh, ensuring that patrons can enjoy a delicious meal alongside their craft beer selections.

These top-rated craft beer stores and breweries in Des Moines offer a diverse range of unique beers, from classic styles to innovative new creations. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these destinations are sure to enhance your appreciation of the art of brewing.

Craft beer bars in Des Moines

Des Moines is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries and taprooms to explore. Here is a guide to some of the best spots to enjoy a craft beer in Iowa's capital city.

Confluence Brewing Company

An established name in the Des Moines craft beer scene, Confluence Brewing opened its doors in 2012 and has since become a leader in the Iowa beer scene. With 36 beers on tap and four-packs to go, there is something for everyone. Try their famous Milk Man Stout or Farmer John's Multi-Grain Ale. You can find Confluence Brewing at 1235 Thomas Beck Road, with nearby trails including the Meredith Trail and Kruidenier Trail.

515 Brewing Company

515 Brewing Co. was founded in 2013 and has since expanded to include seven new barrels. They offer a range of unique beers, such as the Mexican Spring Wheat Beer, Li'l Tart Sour, and DSM Pils Pilsner. Located at 7700 University Ave., Suite C, Clive, the brewery is easily accessible, with the nearby Clive Greenbelt Trail offering a pleasant outdoor space.

Big Grove Brewery & Taproom

Big Grove Brewery is a popular choice for craft beer enthusiasts, with locations in Des Moines, Iowa City, and Solon. The Des Moines taproom features a spacious 12,000-square-foot patio with stunning views of the downtown skyline. Their most popular beers include Easy Eddy, a hazy IPA, and Arms Race, a classic pale ale. You can find Big Grove Brewery at 555 17th St., conveniently located near the MLK Jr. Trail.

Exile Brewing Co.

Exile Brewing Co., located in the historic F.W. Fitch Building, has been a fixture of the Des Moines beer scene since 2012. Their taproom and store offer a variety of beers, including the gold lager Ruthie, dark lager Gigi, and Bavarian-style wheat Hannah. Exile Brewing is situated at 1514 Walnut St., with nearby trails such as the Meredith Trail and MLK Jr. Trail.

Lua Brewing

Lua Brewing, found in Sherman Hill, offers a wide selection of beers, including the Tulpa West Coast Pilsner, Cosmic Giggle Hazy Pale Ale, and Loud as Hope Hefeweizen. The brewery also features cuisine crafted by chef James Arbaugh, who previously worked at the Michelin-starred Plumed Horse in California. Lua Brewing is located at 1525 High St., conveniently situated near the MLK Jr. Trail.

In addition to these notable establishments, Des Moines is home to many other excellent craft beer bars and breweries, such as Court Avenue Brewing Co., the oldest in the metro area, Hy-Vee Wine & Spirits, a reliable choice for craft beer enthusiasts, and El Bait Shop, which offers a great selection of craft beers and growlers. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Des Moines has something to offer for every craft beer lover.

Craft breweries in Des Moines

Craft beer enthusiasts will be delighted to know that there are plenty of options for craft breweries in Des Moines, Iowa. Here is an overview of some popular spots:

Confluence Brewing Company

Celebrating a decade in business in 2022, Confluence Brewing is one of the leaders in the Iowa beer scene. With 36 beers on tap and four-packs to go, there is something for everyone. Some of their most famous brews include Milk Man Stout and Farmer John's Multi-Grain Ale. You can visit them at 1235 Thomas Beck Road, Des Moines, and explore the nearby Meredith Trail and Kruidenier Trail.

515 Brewing Company

515 Brewing Co. was founded in 2013 and has since expanded its operations. They offer a range of unique beers, such as Mexican Spring Wheat Beer, Li'l Tart Sour, and DSM Pils Pilsner. The brewery is located at 7700 University Ave., Suite C, Clive, and is conveniently situated near the Clive Greenbelt Trail.

Exile Brewing Co.

Exile Brewing Co. has been a part of the Des Moines beer scene since 2012. You can find their gold lager Ruthie, dark lager Gigi, and Bavarian-style wheat Hannah on tap or in stores across the Midwest. Their address is 1514 Walnut St., Des Moines, and they are close to the Meredith Trail and MLK Jr. Trail.

Big Grove Brewery & Taproom

Big Grove Brewery offers a unique experience with a 12,000-square-foot taproom and patio in Sherman Hill, Des Moines. They have a full-service restaurant with a menu curated by executive chef Benjamin Smart. Their popular beers include Easy Eddy, a hazy IPA, and Arms Race, a classic pale ale. You can find them at 555 17th St., Des Moines, near the MLK Jr. Trail.

Lua Brewing

Lua Brewing, located at 1525 High St., Des Moines, offers a wide variety of beers, including Tulpa West Coast Pilsner, Cosmic Giggle Hazy Pale Ale, and Loud as Hope Hefeweizen. They are conveniently situated near the MLK Jr. Trail.

Hy-Vee Wine & Spirits

Hy-Vee is a popular grocery store chain that offers a wide selection of craft beers. While individual locations may vary, the Hy-Vee in Urbandale and the one on South Fleur are particularly noted for their craft beer options.

In addition to the above, there are several other notable craft breweries in the Des Moines area, including Court Avenue Brewing Co., Barn Town Brewing, Backpocket Pin & Pixel, and SingleSpeed Brewing. Each of these breweries has its own unique atmosphere, beer selections, and nearby attractions, providing a diverse range of choices for craft beer enthusiasts.

Craft beer and food pairings in Des Moines

Craft beer and food pairings are a perfect way to explore the vibrant culinary scene in Des Moines, Iowa. Whether you're a local or just visiting, there are numerous options to indulge in this delightful combination. Here are some top spots to enjoy craft beer and food pairings in Des Moines:

Exile Brewing

Exile Brewing, located on Walnut Street in Des Moines, offers a unique fusion of food and beer. Each dish on their menu is carefully crafted to complement and enhance your chosen beer. Exile Brewing opened its doors in 2012, putting the Des Moines beer scene on the map. You can enjoy their gold lager, Ruthie, or dark lager, Gigi, along with a variety of dishes designed to elevate your dining experience.

Barn Town Brewing

Barn Town Brewing in West Des Moines is a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts. Founded in 2017, this brewpub features a 1955 Ford F-100 above the bar, recycled wood and tin from Iowa barns, and handmade wood carvings that showcase local pride. Their menu includes perennial favourites such as Neon Hazy, Iowa Gold, and Groovy Ruby Grapefruit IPA, which pair perfectly with their food offerings.

Confluence Brewing Company

Confluence Brewing, located on Thomas Beck Road, is one of the pioneers of the craft beer movement in Des Moines, opening its doors in 2012. With 36 beers on tap and four-packs for sale, there's something for everyone. Their famous Milk Man Stout and Farmer John's Multi-Grain Ale are perfect companions to a hearty meal.

Lua Brewing

Lua Brewing, nestled in Sherman Hill, offers a long list of beers, including Tulpa West Coast Pilsner and Cosmic Giggle Hazy Pale Ale. Their menu, crafted by chef James Arbaugh, features delicious dishes that pair seamlessly with their beers.

Big Grove Brewery & Taproom

Big Grove Brewery & Taproom, situated on 17th Street in Des Moines, boasts a spacious 12,000-square-foot taproom and patio. Their popular hazy IPA, Easy Eddy, with hints of pineapple and mango, pairs well with various dishes. Their full-service restaurant offers healthy options from executive chef Benjamin Smart, ensuring a delightful pairing experience.

In addition to these craft beer hotspots, Des Moines also offers a variety of liquor stores and bottle shops, such as Hy-Vee, El Bait Shop, and Wall to Wall, where you can find an extensive selection of craft beers to enjoy with your meals. Whether you're looking for a cosy brewpub or a vibrant taproom, Des Moines has something for every taste and preference.

Craft beer and local produce in Des Moines

Des Moines is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries, taprooms, and liquor stores offering a wide range of unique beers. Here's a guide to help you navigate the local craft beer landscape and some suggestions for pairing it with local produce.

Breweries and Taprooms

Des Moines is home to several notable breweries and taprooms, each with its unique atmosphere and specialty beers. Here are some top spots to consider:

• Big Grove Brewery & Taproom: With locations in Des Moines, Iowa City, and Solon, Big Grove is a well-known craft brewery in the area. Their Des Moines taproom features a spacious patio with views of the downtown skyline. Try their popular hazy IPA, Easy Eddy, or their classic pale ale, Arms Race.
• Confluence Brewing Co.: Confluence has been a leader in the Iowa beer scene since its opening in 2012. They offer a wide selection of beers, including the famous Milk Man Stout and Farmer John's Multi-Grain Ale.
• Court Avenue Brewing Co.: Affectionately known as CABCo, this is the oldest brewery in the Des Moines metro area, having opened its doors in 1996. They celebrate Iowa's beer history with their labels and décor. Try their Honest Lawyer IPA or Don't Call Neil Pale Ale.
• Exile Brewing Co.: Exile helped put the Des Moines beer scene on the map when it opened in 2012. Their brewpub features a fusion of food and beer, with dishes designed to complement their beers. Try their gold lager, Ruthie, or their dark lager, Gigi.
• 515 Brewing Co.: This brewery offers a variety of beers, including the Mexican Spring Wheat Beer, Li'l Tart Sour, and DSM Pils Pilsner.
• Lua Brewing: Lua, located in Sherman Hill, offers a long list of beers, including the Tulpa West Coast Pilsner and the Cosmic Giggle Hazy Pale Ale. Their menu features food from a Michelin-starred chef.
• Barn Town Brewing: This brewpub, located in West Des Moines, is adorned with recycled wood and tin from Iowa barns, handmade wood carvings, and a mural made from beer cans. Their menu includes the Neon Hazy, Iowa Gold, and Groovy Ruby Grapefruit IPA.

Liquor Stores and Bottle Shops

If you're looking for a place to purchase craft beer to enjoy at home or on the go, here are some recommended liquor stores and bottle shops in Des Moines:

• Hy-Vee: Multiple Hy-Vee locations across Des Moines are known for their impressive craft beer selections. The Urbandale, Jordan Creek, and downtown locations are particularly well-regarded.
• El Bait Shop: This shop is renowned for its excellent craft beer selection and was named one of the top 10 craft beer bars in the country.
• Wall to Wall: Located in West Des Moines, Wall to Wall offers a large selection of single cans and bottles.
• Cheese Shop: For those who prefer to shop local, the Cheese Shop in Des Moines is a great option for craft beer and, of course, cheese.
• Central City Liquors: While their craft beer selection is reasonable, they offer a wide range of regular beers as well.

Pairing Craft Beer with Local Produce

When it comes to pairing craft beer with local produce, Des Moines has plenty to offer. Here are some suggestions:

• Iowa Food Cooperative: Shop for farm-fresh eggs, organic greens, kombucha, and more at the Iowa Food Co-op, which works with local farmers and artisans to provide the freshest produce and artisanal products.
• Old Station Craft Meats: Located in Waukee, this shop offers a selection of local craft beers, including those from Barn Town Brewing. Pair your beer with their delicious meats and charcuterie options.
• Local Farmers Markets: Explore the various farmers' markets in Des Moines, such as the Downtown Farmers' Market, to find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local food vendors. Pair your craft beer with local cheeses, charcuterie, or seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Whether you're visiting a brewery, taproom, or picking up a six-pack from a local liquor store, Des Moines has a wealth of craft beer options to explore. Don't forget to pair your beer with the abundant local produce and artisanal foods that Iowa has to offer!

Frequently asked questions