Aura Restaurant & Lounge (Clive, IA) Review

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Iowa_DSM NW (Clive Urbandale Waukee)

4.6* (out of 5)

Yelp Review

Google Review

Food: 5*

Atmosphere: 5*

Value: 4*

Service: 4*

Would I go back / Recommend?: 5* (Definitely)

Total check/person: $47

05/02/2026 Aura Restaurant & Lounge +1 (515) 225-6005

Tonight was our chance to get back…excuse being to update my food reviews…as well as www.happyhourdesmoines.com. We have really enjoyed all of our visits here – given the modern decor, lively atmosphere, delicous food and unique drinks. Yes, the prices are a bit on the high side, but for an occasional splurge it is always a great time.

Tonight we started with The Oaxacan (mezcal & tequila drink that is smoked in a bottle – see video and picture) and a Raspberry Lemon Drop (see picture). We both love mezcal (and it was even Vida…a favorite), so really like the Oaxacan – and the delivery from a smoked bottle is always fun to watch.

For our meal, we first shared the Korean Fried Cauliflower (see picture), a recommendation from our great server, Jordan. It was delicious (yes, I was close to licking the bowl for the extra bbq sauce…). We then asked Jordan for her 2nd favorite recommendation, the Mini Wellington (see picture) and also tried it. It too was awesome – very tender beef encased in a light, crispy wrap – and again, a great dipping sauce as a complement!

03/25/2023

Tonight’s stop only included drinks on our way home from dinner. Given my love of smokey drinks, I went with the Smokey B (see picture of pouring) – I’ve had it before and really enjoy it. I don’t think you will find another drink with more smokiness imparted into it – a nose full of smoke with every lift of the glass for a sip. My wife ordered the Aperol Paloma (see picture) and while it was advertised as very spicy (Ghost Tequila), neither of us found it spicy to the taste – yet it had great flavor.

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04/09/2022

We stopped here for dinner a second time and really enjoyed the food again. The prices are high, but the food is great.

We ordered the Korean Fried Cauliflower and Honey Garlic Chicken Lavosh. Both dishes tasted great and I’d recommend both.

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