J Benjamin's   

A group of four of us went there for the first time and had the best food we have had in a long time in the Des Moines area. For the price, quality and taste it puts most of the fancier restaraunts to shame. Not only was the food great but the staff was genuine and friendly.

For a while in the mid-2000s the food began to suffer, but it has fully recovered. I've always favored the baked pasta dishes. I tried the cheeseburger soup recently and it was awesome. The service varies -- but it's usually better when Simon is around.

Since finding this restaurant a couple months ago we have been and taken many friends several times. The food has always been superb and we love the sincere friendliness of the staff and especially Simon. Keep it up!

I have dined both in the US and in Ireland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Canada and this place is outstanding. The staff makes sure that everything is perfect for the customer without the usual "suck up" other places do. They are genuine. Simon greets you both on entry and when it is time to leave just like you are related to him or the most important person on the planet. The food is excellent and not costly. It is worth your time and you will be telling your friends . Keep it up Simon. One in a million.