Welcome to Salisbury Oaks, a dreamy Des Moines neighborhood where tree-lined streets shelter some of the most delightful—and often under-the-radar—culinary treasures in the city. Whether you’re a local seeking a new weekend brunch spot, a coffee enthusiast wanting the perfect pour-over, or a visitor eager to taste Des Moines beyond the beaten path, Salisbury Oaks offers a flavor-packed experience. Here’s your insider’s guide to the standout eateries, hidden gems, and vibrant food traditions in this cozy corner of the city.
Breakfast & Brunch: Sunny Starts on Kingman Blvd & Ingersoll
Salisbury Oaks mornings are best spent strolling along Kingman Boulevard or just off Ingersoll, where comforting breakfast aromas drift from open doors.
- Railroad Bill’s Dining Car (on Rollins Ave, just off 42nd St): Slide into a classic booth or snag a counter seat at this homey favorite. Famous for hearty biscuits and gravy, fluffy hotcakes, and rotating seasonal omelets, Railroad Bill’s attracts both locals and savvy brunch seekers. Prices are reasonable, most plates falling in the $7 to $12 range. Don’t leave without trying their housemade corned beef hash.
- Cozy Café (Ingersoll Ave near 39th St): Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you—this bustling spot delivers massive cinnamon rolls, golden hashbrowns, and farm-fresh eggs with Midwest hospitality. Portions are generous and the coffee refills bottomless. A must-stop for classic comfort.
Coffee & Bakeries: Sweet Retreats on Fleur and Side Streets
Salisbury Oaks is home to dedicated coffee artisans and bakers who have quietly raised the bar for everyday indulgences.
- La Mie Bakery (42nd St & Rollins Ave): Without a doubt the neighborhood’s most famous bakery, La Mie packs cases with buttery croissants, rustic loaves, and delicate fruit tarts. Their breakfast sandwiches and quiche are local favorites—arrive early for the best selection. Grab a latte and a raspberry almond danish, and enjoy people-watching on the patio.
- Gong Fu Tea (on Grand Ave, just a short drive east): For an alternative pick-me-up, this serene teahouse blends global teas and local hospitality. In-house pastries complement their beautifully steeped brews; try the daily scone or rotating vegan cookie.
- Crumbl Cookies Food Truck (Ingersoll Ave weekends): This dessert truck parks near Ingersoll Avenue on weekends, serving up gooey, oversized cookies in creative flavors like Churro, Biscoff Lava, and Sea Salt Chocolate Chip. Perfect for a midday treat or late-night snack.
Lunch & Quick Bites: Savory Spots for Every Craving
Whether you’re after a quick lunch or a leisurely midday meal, Salisbury Oaks has you covered.
- Eatery A (42nd St & Grand Ave): This European-inspired café offers Mediterranean flatbreads, inventive salads, and a coveted wood-fired pizza menu. Their lunch special (a personal pizza and salad for under $12) is wildly popular. Don’t miss the hummus trio or spicy lamb sausage pizza. The sun-dappled patio is a neighborhood hotspot on spring afternoons.
- Harbinger (Ingersoll Ave & 28th St, just east of Salisbury Oaks): Pushing the envelope with vegetable-forward small plates, Harbinger crafts dishes like roasted carrot “ribs” and kimchi fried rice in a chic, minimalist space. The lunch menu is approachable, with shareables around $8-15—an inspired choice for adventurous palates.
- Tasty Tacos Food Truck (sporadically on Kingman Blvd): Locals flock here for fluffy flour-shell tacos, especially the renowned “Original” taco with seasoned beef and taco sauce. Fast, cheap, and authentically Midwestern, this is Salisbury Oaks’ best food-on-the-go.
Dinner Destinations: Crowd Pleasers and Date Night Classics
As the sun sets, Salisbury Oaks comes alive with lively dinner destinations, from elegant to laid-back.
- Star Bar (Ingersoll Ave near 29th St): An upscale-casual option perfect for date nights or gatherings with friends. Expect sophisticated takes on classic American fare—think steak frites, Korean BBQ wings, and legendary truffle mac & cheese. Craft cocktails round out the experience; mains run $15-30.
- Səyə Restaurant (Ingersoll Ave near 31st St): This cozy gem brings bright, modern Vietnamese cuisine to the neighborhood. Sample their aromatic pho, crispy banh xeo (Vietnamese crepes), or tangy lemongrass chicken. With most entrees $12-18, it’s a stellar value for inventive flavors in a welcoming setting.
- Gusto Pizza Bar (on Ingersoll): A neighborhood staple for artisanal pies, Gusto’s seasonal specials (like the “Drunken Angel” with vodka sauce, bacon, spinach) keep locals coming back. Order a classic Margherita or try their signature “Debra” with smoked chicken and cashews—perfect for carry-out or cozying up inside.
Hidden Gems & Neighborhood Favorites
Salisbury Oaks’ charm lies in its pockets of well-loved but lesser-known eats.
- Big Tomatoes (Rollins Ave): This family-run takeout operation is a cult favorite for loaded calzones, New York-style thin crust pizzas, and pillowy garlic breadsticks. A go-to for late-night cravings, it’s tucked discreetly into a humble storefront but beloved for its consistency and friendly staff.
- The Cheese Shop of Des Moines (Ingersoll & 42nd): More than just cheese, this beloved spot offers hearty sandwiches, charcuterie boards, and chef-inspired daily specials. Pop in for a combo lunch or sign up for a themed cheese night—local foodies swear by the “Grown-Up Grilled Cheese.”
- JC’s Dairy Queen (on Fleur Dr): In operation since the 1950s, JC’s puts a retro spin on dessert. Friendly service, dipped cones, classic sundaes, and Blizzard treats make this a must for families and anyone with a soft spot for nostalgia.
Food Traditions & Neighborhood Flavor
Salisbury Oaks is more than its restaurants; it’s a place where food tradition and community tie together. Residents organize block parties featuring locally sourced food trucks, and bakeries supply neighborhood school events with croissants and cookies. Around holidays, you’ll spot porch pop-ups hawking homemade tamales, cinnamon rolls, or even locally sourced honey. The neighborhood’s blend of old-school comfort and food-forward innovation ensures there’s always something—and somewhere—worth savoring.
Whether you’re new to Salisbury Oaks or a long-time resident, one thing’s for sure: this neighborhood is a table always set for delicious discovery.