Having lived in Des Moines my entire life, it has been somewhat surreal watching the city grow from a small, Midwestern capital, into a thriving metropolis. Des Moines has flourished with new life over the past thirty years, and offers some of the best microbreweries in the country. Although selecting the best of the best in Des Moines may be nearly impossible, here are two homegrown “must-try” microbreweries to visit while in my hometown.
Court Avenue Brewing Company
Located in the rejuvenated Court Avenue district of Downtown, Court Avenue Brewing Company (CABCO) was one of first microbreweries to set up shop in the state’s capital. The appetizers are good. The steak is better, but it is their handcrafted line of beers that steal the show. The five standard craft beers CABCO offers provide something for everyone. One of their best is their Honest Lawyer I.P.A. Although the namesake can be perceived as an oxymoron, this I.P.A. can go toe to toe with some of the best I.P.A.s in the country. Throw in the fact CABCO offers growlers for patrons to take this nectar of the god’s home, and you will soon find out why they are one of the best breweries in Des Moines.
Raccoon River Brewery
Raccoon River Brewery, located just off 10th St. in Downtown Des Moines, is another of the city’s great breweries. Stop in, grab a pool table upstairs, and order their brewery chips (like nachos, only made with potato wedges and awesomeness). While you’re there throw back a pint or two of their Homestead Red or their Vanilla Cream Ale, and watch a legendary night unfold before you.
If you happen to be there for their seasonal Java Joe’s Blend (a coffee stout), do not pass up the opportunity to give this sensational brew a shot. It may be quite possibly the best coffee stout ever. The best part about Raccoon River is their constant release of off-the-hook seasonal craft beers throughout the year. Although their standard five are all one would need for craft beer happiness, the additional selection makes Raccoon River Brewery another Des Moines’ best breweries.
Although Des Moines has yet to rival the country’s major capital cities in size, it more than makes up for it in amazing breweries. Especially for craft beer fans, Court Avenue Brewing Company and Raccoon River Brewery are two of the best Des Moines has to offer.