Hidden Reviews a Classic : Drake Diner
Neon, chrome, and earth tones: the recipe for perfect vibes.
Per their website, the Drake Diner was opened in 1987 and markets itself as an upscale eatery for homemade classic American comfort food. The establishment is family owned and boasts about their friendly and personable service.
One of the most exciting things about moving to a new city is that even the most well known and established locales are new experiences. Since starting HDSM I occasionally get a recommendation from longstanding residents of the Des Moines area, and one such place I keep hearing about is the Drake Diner. As a lover of all things Art Deco, I had to check out a classic style streamliner diner.
I had to seek out the Drake Diner as it is in a neighborhood I have not yet thoroughly explored. It is just south of Drake University on 25th. You’ll spot it, the chrome exterior is just as nostalgic as the interior. If you’ve read my review of Hob Nob Coffee and Wine Bar at the restored Hotel Fort Des Moines, you might infer that the first thing I’m looking for in an eatery is a cool vibe. The Drake Diner has vibes with a side of nostalgia, served hot. I felt like a character in the 2017 CW TV series Riverdale.
The server who helped me was personable and friendly and was ready to make recommendations. I did not feel like a stranger here, even as the awkward new guy eating alone. I ordered a bulldog burger (sautéed onions, mushrooms, Monterey jack cheese) with onion rings (at the recommendation of the server) for my side. I was really glad to find that their onion rings thin and crunchy were actually made in house and not the large chunky kind you can get at some places. I really enjoyed these onion rings and I can’t wait to try their fries. The burger was good, too, though I will likely go for the Maytag burger which is similar next time but adds Iowa Maytag bleu cheese. I like a little zing.
Bulldog Burger, named for Drake University Mascot, and Onion Rings $12.49
Because it was about 3:30 in the afternoon and this was my first meal of the day, I indulged in a dessert. The server gave me a few options, apparently their pies are all homemade too, and there is a special one daily. I went for a chocolate malt. The server brought me the malt in the metal mixing container and offered to bring me a glass. You can ask for the glass if you want to re-enact that diner scene from Grease, but it’s not necessary.
I have no words. This chocolate malt was heavenly. I could go back here just for a malt. I would have married that chocolate malt. I think I’d like to marry that chocolate malt. Just the right amount of syrup, ice cream, and malt.
Even If I never influence anyone to do anything else with this blog,
go try this chocolate malt.
Love at first bite. Chocolate Malt $6.99
To wrap it up, this place is fantastic. I see why people sent me here. You get a way better and more authentic experience than any given sit-down burger chain at roughly the same price and you get to support local.
As their website says,
“If you are a stranger, you won’t be for long!”
View the Drake Diner’s Menu at DrakeDiner.com