50 Best Bars near Ankeny

The Carney Tap Bar • $
7010 Northeast 14th Street, Ankeny

“If you’re looking for a place with professional, polished, emotionally stable employees… keep driving.

Carney Tap has somehow assembled the Avengers of sarcasm.

Cheyenne has perfected the art of making you feel welcome while simultaneously making you question every life decision that led you to order another round.

Kyle acts like he’s one minor inconvenience away from quitting every shift, yet somehow remembers everyone’s drink before they even sit down. It’s unsettling.

Tina has mastered that “I’ve seen it all” look. You could walk in riding a llama and she’d just ask if you wanted your usual.

Tracy somehow keeps the place running despite being surrounded by what appears to be organized chaos. Either she’s a magician or she’s accepted her fate.

Kinleigh… proceed with caution. She has a dangerous habit of stealing hearts. If you bring your wife, don’t be surprised if she suddenly starts questioning whether she’s been limiting her options. Consider yourself warned.

And then there’s Kevin, the owner. Whoever trusted him with owning an establishment clearly lost a bet. He’s somehow managed to create a place where everyone knows everyone, everyone’s laughing, and strangers become regulars after one visit. Frankly, it’s suspicious.

The worst part about Carney Tap is they remember your name, your drink, and probably your embarrassing stories. You can’t even sneak in pretending you’re a respectable adult anymore.

10/10. Terrible for your wallet, outstanding for your happiness.“

4.5 Superb67 Reviews
Tribute Eatery & Bar Bar • $$
1615 Southwest Main Street Ste 105, Ankeny

Customers` Favorites

Sundried Tomato Spinach Artichoke Dip
Crispy Gnocchi Korean Short Rib
Prime Rib French Dip
French Onion Soup
Fish and Chips
Lobster Bisque
Avocado Toast
Oyster Plate
Steak Frites
Deviled Eggs

“Excellent service and food!“

4.3 Superb142 Reviews
TrailSide Tap Bar • $$
710 Southwest 3rd Street, Ankeny

Customers` Favorites

Loaded Hash Browns
Cauliflower Wings
Trailside Burger
Chicken Sandwich
Brussels Sprouts
Salmon Sandwich
Eggs Benedict
Torta Birria
Cheese Curds
Deviled Eggs

“Trailside Tap is a must-visit in Ankeny! The back patio is amazing. The Berry Summer Salad and Three Pepper Burger were packed with flavor and just the right size. And do yourself a favor—order the Mulberry Mule. You won’t regret it!“

4.3 Superb199 Reviews
4

Jakes

Jakes Bar • $
605 North Ankeny Boulevard, Ankeny

“Sure, it's a strip mall bar that's pretty much a dive, but I love it. Staff is surprisingly attentive and polite for how busy it can get and I've never had much of an issue with the clientele. Love coming hear to watch Hawkeye, Cyclone or Cubs games. Insanely low prices also. One of my favorite bars in the city.“

4 Good96 Reviews
Uptown Food & Beverage Co. Bar & Grill • $$
302 Southwest Maple Street, Ankeny

Customers` Favorites

Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich
Pizza Sausage and Pepperoni
Chicken Parmesan Sandwich
Hand-Breaded Tenderloin
Crispy Chicken Salad
Garlic Cheese Bread
Bacon Cheeseburger
Meatball Hoagie
Nachos Supreme
Chicken Alfredo

“Didn’t feel like cooking so I called to pick up some burgers on the way home. Turns out it was a good idea. I’m never disappointed w any of the food I’ve gotten here. I always see the owner in there greeting customers and leaving the table full of smiles. This is the best example of local hospitality and food I can think of. Stop in and have a burger or a sandwich or some pizza or even a drink. You will be satisfied with your decision and may even wonder about being a regular. I’m glad this place is open.“

4.5 Superb241 Reviews
Good Times Bar • $$
1912 Southwest 3rd Street, Ankeny

“Best bar in Ankeny. Great people, music, and drinks. Never a bad time at the Goodtimes“

3.9 Good168 Reviews
Hy-Vee Market Grille Bar & Grill • $$
2510 Southwest State Street, Ankeny

“Kaden is always really nice and engaging whenever we order from the Hyvee Market Grille section! The last few times we’ve ordered from him he always has nice suggestions and makes good conversation. I hope he gets paid good because he deserves it!!“

5 Superb113 Reviews
Mojito's Mexican Restaurant Mexican • $
802 Southeast Oralabor Road Ste 102, Ankeny

Customers` Favorites

Chips & Salsa with Cheese Dip
Chips and Cheese Dip
Carnitas Chimichanga
Burrito California
Fresh Guacamole
Chips and Salsa
Chicken Fajita
Refried Beans
Shrimp Tacos
Chori Pollo

“Huge lunch portion! Great food!“

4.2 Good217 Reviews
Chili's Grill & Bar Tex-Mex • $
2601 Southeast Delaware Avenue, Ankeny

Customers` Favorites

Triple Dipper w Buffalo Wings SW Eggrolls Chicken Crispers
Classic Sirloin with Avocado - 6oz
Pepper PALS Mini Chocolate Molten
Bottomless Tostada Chips
Bottomless Chips & Salsa
Grilled Chicken Fajitas
Molten Chocolate Cake
Molten Lava Ice Cream
Chips \u0026 Salsa
Half Order of Ribs

“We were in for lunch yesterday, my grandson wasn't feeling well. Our waitress refused to wait on us. She must have gotten the manager, he was a real trooper, took our order and delivered our food. I thought it was unprofessional of her. But we were suppose to get salad, he even said he forgot the salad and never brought it. Never again!!!“

4.2 Good401 Reviews
Maggie's Rumble Room Bar • $
1430 2nd Avenue, Des Moines - 9.03 miles

Customers` Favorites

Classic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich
Hand Breaded Fried Pickles
Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
Pepperoni Pizza Slice
Chicken Parm Sandwich
Fried Pickle Chips
Mozzarella Sticks
Meatball Sandwich
Breaded Mushrooms

“This might be the greatest place I’ve ever been. I’m not kidding….“

4.8 Superb116 Reviews
Highland Underground Bar • $$
3614 6th Avenue Suite 100, Des Moines - 7.5 miles

“What a fun New Year’s party! Thanks for hosting a great event. We all look forward to coming back. Great drinks, fun decor, and super friendly staff. Thank you!“

4.8 Superb87 Reviews
Lucky Horse Beer & Burgers Bar • $
2331 University Avenue, Des Moines - 9.71 miles

Customers` Favorites

Honey Sriracha Chicken Sandwich
Italian Sausage Sandwich
Extra Side Chipotle Ranch
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Bacon Cheddar Burger
Bacon Cheeseburger
Sweet Potato Fries
Chicken Ranch Salad
Prime Rib Sandwich
Side Onion Rings

“We had lunch here yesterday, absolutely delicious burgers. Ate every bite, nice atmosphere. Yummy ice cream sundae to finish off. 10/10“

4.7 Superb194 Reviews
Plaza Pub Pizza • $
6202 Douglas Ave A, Des Moines - 9.4 miles

Customers` Favorites

Smoked Brisket Sandwich mmm
Chicken Philly Sandwich
Brisket Dip Sandwich
Full Rack Rib Dinner
Garlic Cheese Bread
Wings Buffalo Sauce
Pepperoni Pizza
Specialty Pizza
The Shep Pizza
Garlic Bread

“Best pizza in Des Moines.💏👍“

4.9 Superb34 Reviews
Cooney's Tavern Bar • $
3708 Beaver Avenue, Des Moines - 8.65 miles

Customers` Favorites

Liquor Selection

“love this bar, coldest beer in town .“

4.9 Superb33 Reviews
Polk City Pub Bar • $
217 West Broadway Street, Polk City - 7.18 miles

Customers` Favorites

Hickory Smoked Burger I Believe
Farmer John's Multi Grain Ale
BPT & Onion Strings
Chicken Wings
Cheese Curds
Onion Rings
Patty Melt
BPT

“Had an absolutely amazing time with the staff while we ate our dinner and had a few drinks. The food was great, 10/10“

4.7 Superb69 Reviews
Centerfield Sports Bar Bar • $
6555 University Avenue, Windsor Heights - 11.11 miles

“Great little place. Definitely for the Cubs fans. Great variety of bomb drinks. I had the Capri sun and that's exactly what it tasted like. Black cherry rum with an orange monster Delicious. Bartender was great, friendly and helpful. Will be going back when we are in town again.“

4.9 Superb27 Reviews
1833 Saloon Bar • $
1833 Hubbell Ave, Des Moines - 9.38 miles

“THEY GOT FREE RESTROOMS AND THOTS!“

4.8 Superb28 Reviews
Beechwood Lounge Bar • $
416 East Walnut Street, Des Moines - 10.04 miles

Customers` Favorites

Popcorn

“Love this place… brought friends with us last night, great female server, very friendly… only complaint, wish u had tap beer.“

4.7 Superb36 Reviews
Lynn's On Merle Hay Bar • $
6014 Northwest 59th Court, Johnston - 7.26 miles

Customers` Favorites

Double Cheeseburger in a Huge Hand
Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Fries with Ranch
Sausage Sandwich
Double Burger
Steak Dinner
Onion Rings
Salad
Taco
blt

“We went for steak night and my expectations were exceeded. The steak was cooked perfectly, had great flavor, and was good sized without any gristle. The baked potato and toast were good. Looking forward to going back.“

4.6 Superb61 Reviews
Joe's Pub Bar • $
5500 Merle Hay Road Ste D, Johnston - 7.7 miles

“In Johnston for work and saw the sign and thot I would give it a try. Seems like local people and very nice. Bartender was great. Will definitely come back next time in town. Thanks for the hospitality!“

4.7 Superb31 Reviews
Hawk Heaven Tavern Bar • $
805 17th Avenue Southwest, Altoona - 8.08 miles

“Jensen is an amazing bartender and person. She lights up the bar with her great service and smile! She is amazing with the customers knowing exactly what they drink before they order. Definitely recommend stopping in when in Altoona, IA.“

4.6 Superb60 Reviews
Mary Go Round Lounge Bar • $
6584 Northeast 14th Street, Des Moines - 3.71 miles

Customers` Favorites

Onion Tanglers
Garlic Bread
Shrimp

“I think Mary go round is the most comfortable bar in Des Moines u never have to wait for a drink and prices are reasonable“

4.7 Superb29 Reviews
McCann's Tap Bar • $
1360 Northeast 54th Avenue Suite 1560, Des Moines - 5.16 miles

“Great atmosphere and great people.“

4.9 Superb14 Reviews
Waveland Tap Bar • $
4704 University Ave, Des Moines - 10.44 miles

“A nice little bar. Great conversations. Friendly bartenders but they'll kick you out if you're trouble. Loud music on the Touchtunes / jukebox. 5 overhead flat-screen TVs. No food served but chips are available for purchase. Might even see an occasional Amishman come in and sell naked goods.. Pool table for those so inclined. Nice little place. Come on down to sit at the bar and read a book.“

4.7 Superb27 Reviews
GoodSons Food & Spirits Bar • $$
2815 Beaver Avenue, Des Moines - 8.97 miles

Customers` Favorites

Five Famous Smoked Wings
Chicken Pesto Panini
Cheeseburger
Big a Nachos
Paninis

“GoodSons on Beaver Ave is the quintessential neighborhood bar. Have a seat, and you're surrounded by friends. Nice rotation on the taps, including many local brews, and a plentiful selection of cocktail options. The food is a delectable selection of paninis and bar favorites. Come in, have a seat, you are welcome!!“

4.6 Superb50 Reviews
The Boat House Bar • $
7695 NW Beaver Dr, Johnston - 6.74 miles

“I was riding my bicycle with several friends from Johnston Town Center to Polk City. On the way back we rode over the Sailorville Dam and stopped in to the Boat House. What a fun time. The place was amazing and the free popcorn was a great surprise.“

4.6 Superb40 Reviews
Captain Roy's Bar • $
1900 Saylor Road, Des Moines - 8.55 miles

Customers` Favorites

Bacon Chicken Ranch Tots
Wisconsin Cheese Curds
Italian Beef Sandwich
Cuban Sandwich
Garbage Burger
Sony's Grinder
Burrito Bowl
Curly Fries
Cheeseburger
Loaded Tots

“Great food Great music awesome outside in the summer. I give this place a 💯.“

4.5 Superb148 Reviews
Up-Down DSM Bar • $
500 East Locust Street, Des Moines - 9.95 miles

Customers` Favorites

Cherry Lime Crisis Captain America and a Mike Tyson Drunk
Pepperoni Pizza Slice
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Mac and Cheese Pizza
Meat Lovers Pizza
Mona Lisa Pizza
Meat Pizza

“Fair proced drinks but amazing selection of retro games. With everything being a quarter it takes a while to blow through $5. The tilt sensors on the pin ball machines are turned way down compared to anywhere else I have played allowing you to actually save a ball. Amazingly even with all the machines being old retro game only 2 were down when I was in, top notch experience. Wish I would have gone with friends to play some super smash bros.“

4.5 Superb145 Reviews
The Republic on Grand Bar • $$
401 East Grand Avenue, Des Moines - 9.93 miles

Customers` Favorites

Sliders with Bacon Jam and Gorgonzola
Roast Beef Baguette Minis
Duck with Sweet Potatoes
Salumi & Charcuterie
Greek Chicken Salad
Goat Cheese Terrine
Warm Chocolate Bites
Charcuterie Board
Hook and Ladder
Bacon Jam Minis

“We have been to visit The Republic several times and have had a phenomenal time each visit! The staff are second to none! Ask for Nicole Ripperger for great service!“

4.5 Superb114 Reviews
Sunrise Tap Bar • $
4155 Easton Boulevard, Des Moines - 8.56 miles

“New owners came in and dropped a coat of paint on this bar, hired a great manager (shout out Jess!) and made the place feel more inviting. Plus, hard to beat one of the best steak dinner deals in town on Thursdays. Excited to see what they do with a planned expansion to the kitchen. Looking forward to some breakfast.“

4.6 Superb29 Reviews
14th Street Tavern Bar • $
3418 East 14th Street, Des Moines - 7.37 miles

Customers` Favorites

East 14 Street Fire Burger
Graziano Italian Pattie
Hot Sausage Sandwich
Chicken Wings
Walking Taco
Taco Salad
Taco Pizza
Tater Tots
Burgers

“It’s obviously…the coolest place to hangout! 🍹🎉“

4.6 Superb28 Reviews
E 25th Pub & Grub Bar • $
509 East 25th Street, Des Moines - 9.47 miles

Customers` Favorites

Chicago-Style Hot Dog
Philly Cheese Steak
French Fry Basket
Jalapeno Poppers
Cheese Sticks
Wings 5
Sausage

“Best spot in the neighborhood💯🖤“

4.5 Superb48 Reviews
33

CJ II

CJ II Bar • $$
316 East 30th Street, Des Moines - 9.65 miles

“it's a great neighborhood bar. Bingo on Wednesday nights is awesome. i have came several times.“

5 Superb5 Reviews
McCuen’s Irish Pub Bar • $
2565 Wedgewood Road, Des Moines - 7.4 miles

“great service, cheap prices . go there befriend Pam. shes amazing“

4.7 Superb9 Reviews
Photo Finish Lounge Bar •
1 Prairie Meadows Drive, Altoona - 7.19 miles
5 Superb3 Reviews
Crown Center Strip Mall Bar • $$
5500 Merle Hay Road, Johnston - 7.7 miles

“Discover a delightful haven for your sweet cravings ? Personally, I can't resist the allure of the cheesecake baklava. Planning to return soon for some exquisite Bosnian/Turkish coffee paired with a heavenly slice of cake. Wholeheartedly recommend this place!“

5 Superb1 Reviews
Smoking Goat Pub Bar • $$
3015 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines - 9.55 miles

Customers` Favorites

Combo Platter Catfish and Rib Tips
Garlic Parmesan Fries
Chicken Wings Dinner
Buffalo Cauliflower
Catfish Wings Combo
Biscuits and Gravy
Breakfast Platter
Pork Eggrolls 2
Climbing Kites
Chicken Wings

“It's a really nice place and it is classy too...“

4.4 Superb88 Reviews
Norwood Inn Bar & Grill Bar • $
4592 Northeast 29th Street, Des Moines - 6.25 miles

Customers` Favorites

Tenderloin Sandwich Fries Hesse Balls Onion Rings
Hot Sausage Sandwich and Fries
Open Faced Turkey Sandwich
Eggs and Toast with Bacon
Cheeseburger with Fries
Bacon Burger and Fries
Biscuits and Gravy
Italian Sausage
Cheese Balls

“My go to for comfort food which is mostly this sausage sandwich, I’m 100% Italian and have consumed almost every sausage sandwich in Des Moines, this one is the best to me… because it’s different! Will love you always and forever!“

4.4 Superb61 Reviews
Ernie's Boondock Bar • $
440 East Grand Avenue, Des Moines - 9.9 miles

Customers` Favorites

Refreshing Liquid Salad
Cheeseburger and Fries
Egg Bomb

“IF YOU RUN THIS PLACE, FIX THE MUSIC PLAYLIST.

Ok, for the rest of you: Ernie’s is the best bar in DSM. Cheap drinks, good atmosphere, cool bartenders, and the food truck sells great burgers. Recently the owner(s?) has/have enforced a strict playlist on the place (which is worse than letting your bartenders pick the music, if that needs spelled out), but this is a recent hiccup in a place that I frequent and love.“

4.4 Superb60 Reviews
The Ridgemont Bar • $
7460 Hickman Road, Windsor Heights - 10.77 miles

Customers` Favorites

Pizza

“The staff & the regulars are super friendly. The bartenders remember my name & what I like to drink. Sometimes I don't even have to ask. 😁 This is a great place to go hang with friends or by yourself. If you do go in by yourself, it won't be long before someone strikes up a conversation.“

4.4 Superb28 Reviews
The Fremont Bar • $
1030 E 9th St, Des Moines - 9.33 miles

“Wonderful bar to catch some live music or just play some pool. The night we went there was only one bartender and she was absolutely killing it. Didn't get her name but hopefully she got some credit for how well she did. Definitely will be coming back in the future. Thanks for a wonderful time Fremont!“

4.4 Superb21 Reviews
Morty's Bar and Grill Bar • $
2117 East University Avenue, Des Moines - 9.15 miles

“Bike night on Wednesdays!“

4.4 Superb10 Reviews
Blue Ribbon Bar & Eatery Bar •
3000 E Grand Ave, Des Moines - 9.49 miles

“Great service. Delicious food, breakfast, lunch and dinner. Special evenings like car show, Halloween weekend and many other events at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. The menu has options for everyone. Best food you can get on the grounds and reasonably priced. Amazing service day or night.“

4.4 Superb7 Reviews
Stan's Part 2 Bar • $
4275 Northwest 2nd Street, Des Moines - 6.78 miles

“Arrived sometime after five on this Thursday night. The bar was half full and I was greeted by several patrons. The bartender was quick with a smile and a warm greeting. Pamela is not just beautiful but funny and warm. I ordered a Margarita andI that was a great choice. Atmosphere, comradeship I left feeling Good. If you are looking to unwind, meet some good people, good drinks, great service, I highly recommend ROYS. Very clean and sorry no pictures my camera is broke.“

4.2 Good5 Reviews
The Hen House Pub n' Grub Bar • $$
352 Northwest Main Street, Elkhart - 5.23 miles

“Fun place! Great bartenders“

4.2 Good6 Reviews
Peggy's Tavern Bar • $
3020 Forest Avenue, Des Moines - 9.69 miles

“A staple for when you're in town for the Drake relays. We were a little surprised to find out that they did not put the Drake Relays slogan on the other side of the t-shirts due to the extra cost. Really? Peggy customers will gladly pay the extra few dollars for their relay souvenir.“

4 Good4 Reviews
Triangle Tap Bar • $
2506 Post St, Des Moines - 8.08 miles

“Perfect spot and community. It’s my Iowa spot...#dive bar“

4.3 Superb26 Reviews
Toads Tavern Bar • $
3002 State Avenue, Des Moines - 9.14 miles

“We went here for a drink cuz our regular bar was closed for the night. The bartender was rude and ignored us even after I said hi to her. parking lot sucks. Bathroom sucks. Other customers gave rude dirty looks. We will NEVER be back. Poor example for our east side.“

4.3 Superb43 Reviews
Stormy’s Dixieland Tavern Bar • $
6923 Douglas Avenue, Urbandale - 9.67 miles

“Went tonight for steak night! Best steak I've ever had! TJ on the grill was the absolute BEST! He definitely knows what he's doing! Will definitely be back! Great food, great drinks and great atmosphere!“

4.3 Superb46 Reviews
Olde Town Tap Dive Bar • $$
121 2nd Street Southeast, Altoona - 8.42 miles

“Awesome little bar. Heather the bartender was very attentive and very friendly. Got served quickly. Nice atmosphere. Highly recommend.
I have food at a five, but they dont serve food. Im sure if they did it would be a five star review.“

4.2 Good19 Reviews

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