Des Moines Burgers

Any place in the heart of the Midwest—especially a state nicknamed the “Beef State”—is bound to have an impressive burger scene, and Des Moines does not disappoint. From indulgent dive bar creations to gourmet patties crafted with premium cuts of meat, the burger options here cater to every craving. Picking just four standouts feels like an impossible task.

Today, I’m taking on that challenge.

Burgers spark passionate debate, and everyone has their own preferences. While I lean toward smash  burgers, I also appreciate the charm of a greasy, no-frills classic. No matter which burgers make the cut, someone will undoubtedly wonder why their favorite didn’t make the list.

This isn’t about declaring the best burgers in Des Moines; it’s about showcasing my personal top five to inspire others to explore and savor these spots. I haven’t sampled every burger in the city (not yet, anyway!), so this list is a work in progress that will evolve over time.