Palms (Des Moines, IA) Review

4.2* (out of 5)

Yelp Review

Google Review

Food: 4*

Atmosphere: 4*

Value: 4*

Service: 4*

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

Total check/person: $38

10/11/2025 Palms +1 (515) 214-1213

My wife found this place when it was her turn to pick a restaurant for dinner after Mass. We parked in the back and the first impression was great – the smell of actively smoking meat on the way in is always a positive for me! Inside, we found the decor to be clean and modern as was the storefront when I stepped out to take a picture for this review.

As is almost always the case when we are out for dinner, we started with drinks – my wife opting for the Coconut Mojito (see picture) while I ordered the Caribbean Sea Margarita (see picture). Both were very good and are highly recommended, although they were a bit pricy…especially for their size (although that seems to becoming the norm everywhere).

The menu was a bit limited, but did have some very unique dishes (see picture) – one of the main reasons that we love restaurants like this! For dinner, my wife ordered the Suya Pepper Shrimp (see picture) and I went for the Jerk Chicken with Coconut Candied Yams and Jollof Rice (see picture). The chicken was extremely tender and delicious…just be aware that it was served in what is likely a very traditional African / Caribbean style – chopped into small pieces with numerous bone fragments. We both thought the flavors of both dishes were wonderful – so would recommend them and would definitely order again.

If you are looking for a unique African / Caribbean food and drink experience in downtown Des Moines…you will definitely enjoy a stop here!

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