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Jimmy's American Café packs a budget-conscious punch
By NICK POWILLS
Photos by JULIE JOLESCH
One of the most appealing features of Jimmy's American Café is the price. For the most part, the quality of food is quite alluringly rich, and could very well be priced higher. Given that Jimmy's is settled outside of downtown, probably equates the more generous prices.
At Jimmy's, you can get a $100 meal (for two), for right around $50 – no joke.
ATMOSPHERE
I first dined at Jimmy's when I was a senior in high school, during a visit to Drake University. The campus offered a richness that eventually sold me on attending the college, however, the food I ate and the feel I got at Jimmy's sold me on Des Moines. I needed that unique dinning experience as an outlet to wow the girls with (whether that worked or not is an argument saved for later).
As I continued to make Jimmy's a dining experience of choice, I became more and more settled on the décor and atmosphere of this almost secret garden in West Des Moines. It has continued to adapt and change throughout the years I've visited. Now, great art covers the wall and the music choice is much older. The bar has made slight improvements too, making Jimmy's one of Des Moines top restaurants.
The people there would agree, as most have dined there many times before.
GRUB AND SPIRITS
The grub is by far Jimmy's best feature. Each time I have dined there, I have waited for that one sour experience, but each time it has passed me by. The seafood is so tender and loaded with flavor it's as if my taste buds have died and gone to food heaven.
When there is a special imported in, you will taste some of the best prepared fish the city has to offer. I have had the Mahi Mahi. I have had the grilled salmon. I have had the chicken and the beer. I have had it all, and I have loved it all.
The quality of food is that of a bistro, while the prices are that of a regular restaurant. You should expect to pay under $20 for everything this fine establishment has to offer – a steal if I may say so myself.
The World Famous Chicken Fingers are wonderful for appetizers, and the house salad is perfect, especially for its $2 price.
Fine beers and wines accompany meals perfectly. You can splurge on a bottle - or a glass if you prefer - of top of the line conveniently priced wines. If you want to munch on some appetizers while quenching your thirst with some tasty alcohol, you may do so in the very nice bar.
WHY IT'S UNIQUE
Jimmy's American Café is a top restaurant outside of the downtown area. You may not expect this great of an experience in this location – but sometimes, nice things come in odd packages. The owners could move downtown, but why? They do just fine where they are. A dining experience comes highly recommended for anyone who hasn't experienced Jimmy's.
Jimmy's American Café
1238 Eighth St.
West Des Moines
515.224.1212
11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily; dinner starts at 3 p.m.
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