Fresko

4.7

1213 Reviews

$30 and under

Farm-to-table

Make a booking

2 people

27 Feb 2025

19:30

Booked 34 times today

Healthy
Great for creative cocktails
Good for special occasions

“Fresko” meaning “fresh” inspires our creation of seasonal menus made from locally sourced ingredients. Fresko makes natural food from the bounty of Iowa farms whenever possible. The culinary team prepares product from start to finish applying natural time honored techniques with care at every step. This enriches the flavorful and nutritious product we serve and benefits our community. Fresko believes we are what we eat and eating well means living well.

Fresko features a splendid assortment of original cocktails with a deep spirits menu and a beer program with sixteen beers on tap in addition to bottles and cans. Fresko's wine menu focuses on quality selections at a great value to our guests.

Order delivery or takeout

Private dining

Book your next event with us

View details

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
Farm-to-table
Hours of Operation
Brunch Sat, Sun 08:00–16:00 Lunch Mon–Fri 11:00–16:00 Dinner Mon–Thu 11:00–22:00 Fri, Sat 11:00–23:00 Happy Hour Mon–Fri 16:00–18:00
Phone number
(515) 630-7009
Website
http://www.freskodsm.com/
Payment Options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Business Casual
Executive Chef
Drew Hoormann
Catering
We would be excited to host you or cater you for your next event.
Private party facilities
Thank you for choosing Fresko for your gathering! We are beyond excited to share our seasonal menus, made from locally sourced and sustainable ingredients, our lovely event spaces and exceptional team. You can trust your guests will have a tremendous experience at Fresko. Whether you’re here to celebrate your love story, organize a business meeting, celebrate a milestone, host a family gathering, or anything in between, we are here to put your mind at ease and deliver a fabulous experience for you and your guests. Our Executive Room accommodates up to 30 guests, and our Gathering Room accommodates up to 45 guests. We are also able to combine both rooms to accommodate up to 100 guests! We welcome the opportunity to make your vision a reality. Please contact us at events@freskodsm.com, by phone at 515-630-7009, or via our website: https://www.freskodsm.com/private-events/

Location
909 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Area
Des Moines
Cross Street
9th and Locust
Parking details
Parking is available on the street, in several nearby parking ramps, and there is a lot across the street available after 5pm.
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Delivery, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Private Room, Takeaway, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Wood Fired WingsUS$11.00
Chicken wings, chili oil, crumbled feta, tzatziki dipping sauce
Lobster AvocadoUS$15.00
Mango salsa, chili beurre blanc
Hummus*US$9.00
Smoked paprika scented, crudites, arugula, pita
Tuna TartareUS$15.00
Teriyaki marinated ahi tuna, avocado, sesame seeds, wontons, firecracker sauce
NachosUS$15.00
Short rib or chicken, house-made cheese sauce
Tempura ShrimpUS$13.00
Blue cheese mousse, celery hearts, buffalo vinaigrette
P.E.I. MusselsUS$12.00
White wine, Spanish chorizo, garlic, cilantro, chili butter, grilled bread
Kefte*US$12.00
Woodfire grilled lamb skewers, arugula, Mediterranean pico, tzatziki, feta cheese, pita
SkewersUS$14.00
Wood-fired Moroccan spiced tenderloin, arugula, Mediterranean pico, tzatziki
Seared Sesame TunaUS$15.00
Seared rare and sliced, Asian slaw, honey almonds, orange supremes, squash, ginger soy vinaigrette

Sushi

Tempura Shrimp & SalmonUS$14.00
Avocado, kingoma sauce, micro cilantro
Spicy Tuna*US$15.00
Sriracha, avocado, blue crab, crunch
The KillerUS$16.00
Blue crab, cucumber, unagi, avocado, spicy mayo, eel sauce, tobiko
Maine Lobster RollUS$16.00
Tempura shrimp, avocado, wasabi mayo, unagi sauce, ginger glaze, sriracha mayo

Greens

Add: Shrimp, Chicken, Tuna, Steak

FreskoUS$6.00
Artisan lettuce, berries, orange supreme, goat cheese, red onion, red wine vinaigrette
Kale & Spinach CaesarUS$6.00
Tuscan kale, baby spinach, garlic croutons, cremini mushrooms
Beets & Goat CheeseUS$7.00
Roasted gold & red beets, candied pecans, orange supremes, citrus vinaigrette

Flatbreads

BaconUS$12.00
Crispy bacon, caramelized onion, Tillamook cheddar, fresh thyme
MargheritaUS$11.00
Basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella
FormaggioUS$11.00
Cheese blend, fresh chives, truffle honey
FungoUS$11.00
Wild mushrooms, cheese blend, fresh arugula, red wine reduction
PepperoniUS$12.00
San Marzano tomato sauce, mozzarella, grande artisan pepperoni

Tacos

Achiote ChickenUS$13.00
Pickled cabbage, chipotle aioli, mango salsa
Short RibUS$14.00
Pico de gallo, guacamole, cotija
Argentine Red ShrimpUS$14.00
Candied Fresno chili, micro cilantro
FishUS$13.00
Chili marinated cod, jicama slaw, guacamole
Chorizo SeitanUS$14.00
Pico de gallo, guacamole

Sandwiches

Served with roasted potatoes | Gluten Free bread available $3

Portobello Burger*US$14.00
Marinated portobello, zucchini, summer squash; roasted red pepper, basil pesto, arugula, tomato, multigrain bun
Steak Sandwich*US$13.00
Sliced ribeye, Tillamook cheddar, sweet onion, chimichurri, tomatoes, ciabatta bread
Pita Wrap*US$13.00
Leg of lamb, chipotle mayo, pico, arugula, feta
Chicken Caprese*US$12.00
Grilled chicken breast, tomato, arugula, basil pesto, fresh mozzarella, ciabatta bread
Fresko Burger*US$14.00
Smoked gouda, arugula, pickled onion, tomato jam, brioche bun
Horseradish Burger*US$14.00
Havarti cheese, crispy bacon, bibb lettuce, fresh tomato, remoulade, brioche bun
Turkey BurgerUS$13.00
Caramelized onions, granny smith apples, baby spinach, blue cheese, multigrain bun

Entrées

Pan Seared Sea ScallopsUS$31.00
Spicy greens, bacon lardons, cauliflower gratin, leek & Fresno chili relish
Seafood Stew*US$27.00
Fish, shrimp, calamari, mussels, ancho lobster broth, fire-roasted peppers, napa cabbage, grilled bread
Lobster RavioliUS$29.00
Maine lobster filled pasta, escarole, roasted squash, sherry mascarpone creme, parmesan
Golden Dragon Street NoodlesUS$21.00
Marinated tofu, rice noodles, julienne carrots, zucchini, sweet onions, jalapeños, Thai coconut sauce, peanuts
Short RibsUS$30.00
Braised, sweet wine risotto, arugula, cherry tomatoes

Wood Fire

Half Roasted ChickenUS$25.00
Lemon & thyme brine, roasted potatoes, sautéed garlic swiss chard, lemon pan sauce
SalmonUS$25.00
Sauteed Tuscan kale, fennel & orange salad, brown butter vinaigrette
Hanger Steak
Goat cheese & chive smashed red potatoes, sauteed kale, sweet demi-glace, crispy tobacco onions
- 12 Oz.US$37.00
Prime Filet
Roasted red potato hash, cremini mushrooms, roasted garlic, Tuscan kale, blue cheese, dijon cream sauce
- 7 Oz.US$30.00
Wagyu Ribeye
Sauteed spinach, smashed red potatoes
- 16 Oz.US$52.00

Sides (Fruit and Vegetables)

VegetablesUS$7.00
Sautéed GreensUS$6.00
Fresh FruitUS$6.00
Cauliflower GratinUS$8.00

Sides (Potatoes)

Truffle PotatoesUS$8.00
Roasted PotatoesUS$6.00
Goat Cheese & Chive
Smashed Red PotatoesUS$6.00
Sea Salt & Pepper ChipsUS$5.00

What 1,213 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.7

4.7 based on recent ratings

4.6Food
4.7Service
4.7Ambience
4.4Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

Iowa
Great for brunch
Iowa
Good for groups
Iowa
Healthy
Iowa
Most Booked
Des Moines
Best Value
Des Moines
Innovative
Des Moines
Good for groups
Des Moines
Healthy
Des Moines
Most Booked

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

Fresko impresses with "wonderful food and service," providing a delightful dining experience. Known for "great brunch" and "phenomenal" meals, the ambiance and staff are consistently praised. While occasional menu shortages occur, the "creative menu and delicious pizza" keep patrons returning. Perfect for special occasions, Fresko offers "amazing food" and "excellent service."

1,213 Reviews

M
Megan
Des Moines
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined 7 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Wonderful food and service! My husband and I agree our meal was some of best!
FreskoResponded 1 day ago
Thank you! We're so happy you and your husband enjoyed your meal. Can't wait to have you back for another great dining experience!
Is this helpful?
J
James
Chicago
9 reviews
4.0
9 reviews
Dined on 17 February 2025
1. Overall 4
2. Food 5
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 5
This was our first time. The server was good and the drinks we ordered were very good. The only reason I am not giving it 5 stars is that we ordered our entrees and were told they were out. We ordered a second entree and were told they were out of this. The food we finally ordered was very well prepared and just the right size. We had homemade ice cream and chocolate cake which were just the right size and wonderful.
FreskoResponded 7 days ago
Thank you for giving us a try! We're glad you enjoyed the service, drinks, and food. We apologize for the unavailable entrées and appreciate your patience. We hope to provide an even better experience next time!
Is this helpful?
S
Shelby
Des Moines
1 review
3.0
1 review
Dined on 16 February 2025
1. Overall 3
2. Food 1
3. Service 2
4. Ambience 4
We have been to Fresko many times before this and we’re always impressed. This visit left us very disappointed and dissatisfied. First, they were out of our top 3 choices from the menu which left us to order something else. I chose to order the pasta, which was bland and tasted like boxed pasta from the grocery store, and the squash in the pasta was undercooked and crunchy. We also ordered truffle potatoes, and potatoes with our daughter’s meal, which both sides were undercooked and the potatoes were firm. We opted for dessert and ordered the cherry cheesecake, which came “deconstructed” and was essentially an expensive yogurt parfait. This experience changed our view on one of our favorite spots in DSM.
FreskoResponded on 17 February 2025
Thank you for letting us know, Shelby. We apologize for being out of some items, post an extremely busy Valentine's Day weekend. We hope your next visit is better.
Is this helpful?
S
Samantha
Des Moines
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on 15 February 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Our waitress Tiana was so incredible and the food—— chefs kiss. Our first time here and I will certainly be back
FreskoResponded on 17 February 2025
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear Tiana made your experience special and that you loved the food. We can’t wait to welcome you back!
Is this helpful?
JR
JanineR
Des Moines
5 reviews
4.0
5 reviews
Dined on 15 February 2025
1. Overall 4
2. Food 4
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
My food was overcooked, which was a first for me! We do love Fresko and we will be back!
FreskoResponded on 17 February 2025
Thank you for your feedback! We're sorry to hear about the overcooking and truly appreciate your continued support. We'll make sure to improve for your next visit. We look forward to welcoming you back!
Is this helpful?
R
Ryan
Des Moines
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on 15 February 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Food was so good and the look was perfect! Environment was clean and service was fast, polite, and friendly.
FreskoResponded on 17 February 2025
Thank you for your great review! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed the food, ambiance, and service. We hope to see you again soon!
Is this helpful?
L
Luke
Des Moines
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on 15 February 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Our waiter was very nice and professional, the food was phenomenal, and we had a great time! We will definitely be back!
FreskoResponded on 17 February 2025
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're so glad to hear that Jacob made your experience even better and that you loved the food. We can’t wait to welcome you back soon!
Is this helpful?
S
Stacy
Des Moines
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on 14 February 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
This is our 2nd experience at Fresko. We chose it for Valentines Day because we could walk from our event hotel (Marriott). Upon being seated we were gifted a gorgeous valentine rose. We loved our meal choices and look forward to coming back to try more more menu items.
FreskoResponded on 17 February 2025
Thank you for choosing us again for your Valentine's celebration! We're so happy to hear you enjoyed the meal and the rose. We can't wait to welcome you back to try more delicious menu items!
Is this helpful?
C
Chase
Unspecified
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on 14 February 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
First time I’ve been there food was amazing and the service was great. Amazing spot for Valentine’s Day
FreskoResponded on 17 February 2025
Thank you for choosing us for your first visit! We're thrilled to hear you loved the food and service. We hope to welcome you back soon for another great experience!
Is this helpful?
l
laura
Des Moines
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on 14 February 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 4
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Service and ambiance was perfect. Was even given a rose on Valentines Day
FreskoResponded on 17 February 2025
Thank you for your lovely review! We're so glad you enjoyed the service, ambiance, and the rose. Hope to see you again soon!
Is this helpful?

FAQs

Fresko offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (515) 630-7009.

Fresko is rated 4.7 stars by 1213 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a booking

2 people

27 Feb 2025

19:30

Booked 34 times today

Order delivery or takeout

909 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309

Additional information

Cross Street
9th and Locust
Area
Des Moines
Hours of Operation
Brunch Sat, Sun 08:00–16:00 Lunch Mon–Fri 11:00–16:00 Dinner Mon–Thu 11:00–22:00 Fri, Sat 11:00–23:00 Happy Hour Mon–Fri 16:00–18:00
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
Farm-to-table
Dining style
Casual Dining
Dress code
Business Casual
Parking details
Parking is available on the street, in several nearby parking ramps, and there is a lot across the street available after 5pm.
Payment Options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Executive Chef
Drew Hoormann
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Delivery, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Private Room, Takeaway, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Website
http://www.freskodsm.com/
Phone number
(515) 630-7009
Catering
We would be excited to host you or cater you for your next event.
Private party facilities
Thank you for choosing Fresko for your gathering! We are beyond excited to share our seasonal menus, made from locally sourced and sustainable ingredients, our lovely event spaces and exceptional team. You can trust your guests will have a tremendous experience at Fresko. Whether you’re here to celebrate your love story, organize a business meeting, celebrate a milestone, host a family gathering, or anything in between, we are here to put your mind at ease and deliver a fabulous experience for you and your guests. Our Executive Room accommodates up to 30 guests, and our Gathering Room accommodates up to 45 guests. We are also able to combine both rooms to accommodate up to 100 guests! We welcome the opportunity to make your vision a reality. Please contact us at events@freskodsm.com, by phone at 515-630-7009, or via our website: https://www.freskodsm.com/private-events/

Fresko

Make a booking

Order delivery or takeout

Private dining

Additional information

Starters

Wood Fired WingsUS$11.00

Lobster AvocadoUS$15.00

Hummus*US$9.00

Tuna TartareUS$15.00

NachosUS$15.00

Tempura ShrimpUS$13.00

P.E.I. MusselsUS$12.00

Kefte*US$12.00

SkewersUS$14.00

Seared Sesame TunaUS$15.00

Sushi

Tempura Shrimp & SalmonUS$14.00

Spicy Tuna*US$15.00

The KillerUS$16.00

Maine Lobster RollUS$16.00

Greens

FreskoUS$6.00

Kale & Spinach CaesarUS$6.00

Beets & Goat CheeseUS$7.00

Flatbreads

BaconUS$12.00

MargheritaUS$11.00

FormaggioUS$11.00

FungoUS$11.00

PepperoniUS$12.00

Tacos

Achiote ChickenUS$13.00

Short RibUS$14.00

Argentine Red ShrimpUS$14.00

FishUS$13.00

Chorizo SeitanUS$14.00

Sandwiches

Portobello Burger*US$14.00

Steak Sandwich*US$13.00

Pita Wrap*US$13.00

Chicken Caprese*US$12.00

Fresko Burger*US$14.00

Horseradish Burger*US$14.00

Turkey BurgerUS$13.00

Entrées

Pan Seared Sea ScallopsUS$31.00

Seafood Stew*US$27.00

Lobster RavioliUS$29.00

Golden Dragon Street NoodlesUS$21.00

Short RibsUS$30.00

Wood Fire

Half Roasted ChickenUS$25.00

SalmonUS$25.00

Hanger Steak

Prime Filet

Wagyu Ribeye

Sides (Fruit and Vegetables)

VegetablesUS$7.00

Sautéed GreensUS$6.00

Fresh FruitUS$6.00

Cauliflower GratinUS$8.00

Sides (Potatoes)

Truffle PotatoesUS$8.00

Roasted PotatoesUS$6.00

Goat Cheese & Chive

Smashed Red PotatoesUS$6.00

Sea Salt & Pepper ChipsUS$5.00

Overall ratings and reviews

Loved For

Review summary

FAQs

Does Fresko offer delivery through OpenTable or takeout?

How is Fresko restaurant rated?

Is Fresko currently accepting bookings?

Make a booking

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information