Best Restaurants at Des Moines (DSM)
DSM has dining options throughout its terminal — from local institutions to reliable chains. Below is a terminal-by-terminal guide to the highlights, plus the best quick bites, sit-down spots, and what to expect on pricing before your flight.
Airport Dining · DSM
What restaurants are at Des Moines (DSM)?
DSM operates a single terminal, so all dining is accessible once you clear security. Here are the standout options:
| Restaurant | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Portermill Craft Food & Beer | Restaurant/bar | $$ |
| Friedrichs Coffee | Coffee & pastries | $ |
| Arugula & Rye | Deli & salad bar | $$ |
| Berk & Chesters Kitchen + Bar | Bar & American | $$ |
| Mill Supply Co. | Grab-and-go | $ |
| A Bar / Coffee & Bar | Coffee & beverages | $ |
What's the best quick bite at Des Moines?
Friedrichs Coffee — the first stop after security, open earliest at 4 a.m. with fast espresso drinks and grab-and-go breakfast items.
Quick-service counters at DSM typically get you through the line in 5–10 minutes at off-peak times, and up to 20 minutes during the morning rush. Budget an extra 15 minutes at minimum if you plan to eat before your flight — and check your Leave-By Time before you sit down so you know exactly how much runway you have.
Where can I get a sit-down meal at Des Moines?
Portermill Craft Food & Beer — DSM's closest thing to a full-service restaurant, with a real kitchen menu (burgers, sandwiches, gluten-free options) and 18 Iowa craft beers on tap.
Full-service restaurants at DSM typically require 45–75 minutes from being seated to paying the check. If you want a relaxed dining experience, plan to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before boarding — factor in security wait, the walk to your gate, and a buffer for the unexpected. The Leave-By calculator can fold your meal time into your total airport plan.
How much does food cost at Des Moines?
DSM keeps airport pricing modest for its market — coffee and quick bites run about $5–12, while a Portermill entrée with a local beer runs roughly $12–18 per person, noticeably cheaper than dining at major-hub airports.
Airport restaurants across the US typically charge 20–40% above street prices due to higher operating costs, rent, and logistics. At DSM, use this rough guide:
| Price Symbol | Per Person | Typical Options |
|---|---|---|
| $ | Under $12 | Fast food, coffee, grab-and-go snacks |
| $$ | $12–25 | Fast-casual, sandwiches, pub fare |
| $$$ | Over $25 | Full-service restaurants, steakhouses, seafood |
Prices as of 2026. Tip (18–20%) is additional at full-service restaurants.
Can I bring outside food into Des Moines?
Yes — TSA allows solid foods through security checkpoints at DSM. You can pack a sandwich, snacks, fruit, homemade food, or even a full restaurant meal in your carry-on bag and bring it through the checkpoint without any issue.
The restriction applies to liquids and gels over 3.4 oz (100 mL): soups, dips, nut butters in large containers, juice boxes, and similar items must follow the 3-1-1 rule or be placed in checked baggage. Solid food — including wrapped sandwiches, chips, candy, produce, and baked goods — passes through freely.
This means you can save significantly on airport food prices by packing your own meal or picking something up before you enter the terminal. See the full TSA food policy and tips in our guide: Can you bring food through airport security?
Arrive early enough for a relaxed meal
The Leave-By calculator folds your real-time DSM security wait, drive time with traffic, and gate walk into one exact time to leave home — so you arrive with time to eat, not just sprint.
Calculate your Leave-By Time →See also: DSM TSA wait times · DSM security tips · Bringing food through security
Common questions about dining at DSM
What are the best restaurants at DSM?
DSM has one terminal with several dining options airside. Highlights include Portermill Craft Food & Beer, Friedrichs Coffee, Arugula & Rye, and more. Most options are available after clearing security.
What is the best quick bite at DSM?
Friedrichs Coffee — the first stop after security, open earliest at 4 a.m. with fast espresso drinks and grab-and-go breakfast items.
Is there a sit-down restaurant at DSM?
Portermill Craft Food & Beer — DSM's closest thing to a full-service restaurant, with a real kitchen menu (burgers, sandwiches, gluten-free options) and 18 Iowa craft beers on tap.
How much does food cost at DSM?
DSM keeps airport pricing modest for its market — coffee and quick bites run about $5–12, while a Portermill entrée with a local beer runs roughly $12–18 per person, noticeably cheaper than dining at major-hub airports. Airport restaurants typically charge 20–40% above street prices. As a rough guide: $ = under $12, $$ = $12–25, and $$$ = over $25 per person.
Can I bring food through DSM security?
Yes — TSA allows solid foods through security checkpoints at DSM. You can bring a sandwich, snacks, fruit, or even a full meal from outside the airport in your carry-on. Liquids and gels over 3.4 oz are still restricted; soups, dips, and similar items must comply with the 3-1-1 rule. See the full policy in our guide.