Aposto at the Scala House
644 18th St, Des Moines
(515) 244-1353
Recent Reviews
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Great food and service
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We ate here for our anniversary during restaurant week and it was a great experience. We felt celebrated and appreciated the complimentary wine. The food was phenomenal- especially the arugula was and the pork and polenta. The only downside: the 70 year olds next to us who were very shouty- but perhaps their hearing aids could not accommodate. Will definitely be back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Aposto is a cozy, upscale spot tucked inside a converted house and it absolutely nails the vibe for a special celebration. I went with friends for my birthday and we sampled nearly the entire seasonal menu. The gnocchi with pine nuts and basil as well as the duck really stood out, but honestly, everything was thoughtfully prepared. Portion sizes varied quite a bit, which I felt was not always reflected in the pricing. Still, the flavors were fresh and refined, and the cocktail and wine selection was excellent. The staff were kind, curious, and even added a candle to my dessert, which was a sweet touch. Street parking felt a little awkward, but the homely atmosphere more than made up for it. Not an everyday spot, but perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or a classy date night or any other special occasion. Probably better to leave the kids at home though.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Gnocchi, Polenta Cakes, Duck Risotto
Consistently one of the great Des Moines restaurants. Ezra, our server/ bartender was brilliant. Welcoming, inviting, interesting, and extremely knowledgeable, but his presence enhanced all points. Food had that quality of fine dining with familiarity. No pretension, but elevated. Osso bucco was amazing. Cavatelli is, as always, the best. Polenta pisses me off, because I make polenta, but never like this. Truly THE best there is in town.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This is my favorite restaurant in the Des Moines area. The portions are perfect, the menu is amazing, and the atmosphere is quaint and welcoming. You will not be disappointed!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Gnocchi
My husband and I have been wanting to dine here forever. It was hugely disappointing. The menu is very limited. We started with the polenta which was good. It came with an abundance of marinara sauce that I would have loved to dip bread in- but get this, they don’t serve bread! At an Italian place!! The waiter said he has heard that so many times but obviously they don’t care about customer feedback. My husband’s cocktail was not good at all, and I ordered moscato which the waiter said was a bottle ($28) but it was a mini-bottle - 1.5 glasses. I had the gnocchi and it lacked flavor and was served with radishes, ugh. I left hungry, to be honest. My husband had prawns and they were not peeled and still had the eyes on them - gross. His linguine was caked together. I would never return. The setting is super nice, but it was too expensive for the food and also it had a “snobby” feel. So many better places in Des Moines to enjoy.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 2
Service: 3
Amazing food and service. Very unique and cozy atmosphere. Drinks were delicious.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Absolutely delicious meal, fabulous service, and lovely atmosphere.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
the special pasta we had with corn and pancetta??? transcendent. polenta cakes? fire. risotto with crab? a Jackie Robinson-style home run. Ate SO much good food between the two of us and left STUFFED. Spent less than $200! Affordable and delicious. And our server was the best! We definitely have a new favorite spot in town. <3 love you Aposto
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Everything about this place is spectacular. Order anything and you’ll be pleased.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
Our favorite place to get a nice dinner for a special occasion!
Beautiful place and the food was Excellent!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Perfect place for an intimate dinner or double date. Everything on the menu was delicious, including the cocktails. I will be returning. I was enjoying myself so much I forgot to take pictures.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Charming, fresh pasta/food, everything I want and expect in a night out. The service was fantastic, bar service was great, and the food was fresh and exceptional. Highly recommend!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We got engaged then came here for a dinner celebration 10 minutes after and it was perfect everything about it.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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