Bar Nico

FINALLY!! Tacos worth leaving the house for. Not only is this place adorable, not only are they completely gluten free, not only do they offer a fabulous selection of fresh tasting and varied Mexican inspired items, their tacos are the best we’ve had since moving to DSM from Austin!! 30 years in Florida and a handful of years in Texas spoiled us for fresh, simple, well-made tacos. We had the wild boar and the pork belly tacos. Everything added to the taco complimented the well-seasoned and perfectly cooked meat, instead of smothering it in unnecessary toppings. Our only regret is waiting so long to give them a try. The atmosphere is wonderful, with booths set up to provide a feeling of privacy. Outdoor seating is a bonus option we enjoy. Service was friendly, unobtrusive, and knowledgeable. Our new favorite place.

What a hidden gem! Happy Hour here is absolutely unbeatable. High quality, fresh, chef level cuisine at an affordable price. Presentation, variety, and execution were flawless. Not to mention the entire menu is Gluten Free! I ordered Maine Lobster Quesadilla, Braised Lamb Empanadas, & Seared Scallop Tacos for an insanely fair cost of $20 during their 3-5pm Happy Hour! Tacos $7, Tapas (savory dishes) $6, and Botanas (snacks/sides) $5 are reduced. My total was supposed to be $45 so this is a crazy deal. Alex the manager was very friendly and Mary (next door at Kitchen Collage) was the one who recommend me to come try it out. She's a Des Moines local and if you're from out of town (like me) pay her a visit because she will tell you all the spots to visit during your stay! The vibe in Bar Nico is immaculate. Great mood lighting, interior design, clean restrooms, and outdoor seating options if you wanna bring your furry friend. I highly recommend Bar Nico to all locals and visitors. Come check them out and support local businesses to keep them around for years to come.

Our bartender Irland makes one of the best margaritas I have ever had. We got there during happy hour and it was very reasonable. The food is all gluten free and hand made. We ordered way too many tacos because the price was so good. Even the churros are gluten free and handmade and tasted amazing with the house made caramel. It should be on your top places to visit in Des Moines.

This is the best thought out and presented North Mexican food I have had outside of Mexico. The flavors, textures, and imagination were amazing, the presentation beautiful, and wine list, though small, well selected, and, of course , it is gluten free (important to one of out party). The service was attentive, without being obtrusive, and the owner even lowered the music in our area so we could talk.

Amazing food! A super welcoming and hospitable/knowledgeable staff! Also it’s all gluten free! You can’t go wrong with anything in the menu. Chef Matt and his team are innovative with their dishes and do a great job with texture, flavor, spice and taste. This is a must place visit and then visit it a few more times. This is my wife and i’s favorite restaurant!