My wife and I have been twice now, and both visits have been outstanding—so much so that it’s become our favorite date-night restaurant in Des Moines. The whole experience feels intentional: creative food that’s genuinely memorable, drinks that are just as thoughtfully done, and service that’s attentive without ever feeling fussy.
Honestly, we love it so much we always forget to take any pictures of the food or drinks—because once it hits the table, we’re just in it.
Both times we left saying the same thing: “Yep… we’re coming back.” Harbinger has that rare combination of elevated and relaxed, special and comfortable—exactly what you want when you’re out with your favorite person.
We’re already looking forward to many more visits. Highly recommend.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Jacob Barglof
I am a foodie through and through, always seeking out new tastes and experiences. Nothing has even come close to Harbinger. Each bite was a meditation and an experience that truly felt like art at the highest level. World class at an affordable price. Portion sizes are small, so do not come expecting to leave full, but rather to experience art.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Ben Williams
Great food and service though definitely a special occasion price. Their courses are varied and delicious
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Patrick D'Amico
The magicians at Harbinger have consistently served me the best meals I've ever had in my entire life. Every bite is like fireworks in my brain.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Mónica Zunino
Harbinger is, without question, the finest dining experience in Des Moines, and truly one of the most memorable restaurants I’ve experienced anywhere.
The food is where the magic truly happens. Each dish is a work of art, layered, balanced, and deeply intentional. The flavors are bold yet refined, creative yet harmonious. Every course feels like a conversation between nature and technique.
Chef Joe Tripp and his team demonstrate extraordinary talent and vision. You can taste the care, the precision, and the passion in every bite. It’s not just dinner, it’s an experience that lingers long after the last course.
Harbinger sets the standard for culinary excellence in this city. In my opinion, it is absolutely deserving of Michelin recognition. A true gem.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Ty Frees
Had the valentine menu. Wagyu was tough I couldn’t eat it mine my wife’s was good though, couple of dishes were room temp and another was freezing cold for 175 per person you expect 10/10 everything perfect.
Service was fine but for 175 per person I expected more
Melissa Senneff
I loved it! Unique foods, and each one bursting with flavor. They suggest you order 3-6 plates per person, because they're smaller. You get such a fun variety of food to try, and they stagger the delivery so you're receiving your food consistently throughout your dining time. Also, don't skip dessert - it was amazing!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Jamile Shirley
Fantastic and memorable! We enjoyed every exquisite morsel. The experience was akin to eating at an art museum. The service was professional, kind, knowledgeable, and incredibly efficient. We found the menu to have plentiful vegetarian options—which is often scarce in the Midwest. I think we ordered all of them! My husband and I were celebrating his retirement after 33+ years of service in the Army National Guard. It was a big day for us, the Harbinger team made it incredibly special, warm, and memorable. Thank you so much!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Elizabeth Wilson
Seriously, one of the best places in Des Moines! Go for happy hour and try their incredible food!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Bella Bruesch
I stopped in with my fiancé for some steamed buns and some drinks and we will definitely be back. The first drink I ordered was the melo down and it was really really good. The salt, sugar, citric acid, Chinese 5 spice rim is something I would have never considered trying, but it was seriously so good. I also tried the paper moon (without egg) and it was truly the perfect after meal cocktail. I love toasted sesame, but again, I never would have considered it to be in a cocktail. It was a very deep almost savory flavor that was brightened up with the yuzu. I was a little bit let down by the steamed buns. I was under the impression they would still have the mushroom bun but it was replaced with squash instead. The chile and pumpkin seed topping was absolutely delicious but I am not at all a fan of squash. The chicken one was pretty good but I would have loved some spice to it. I also tried the pork belly which was too fatty for me but my fiancé really liked it. I would love to see some more vegetarian options for those of us who aren't big on squash.
This place has such a cool vibe! It’s a bit on the pricey side, but you’re absolutely paying for local, fresh food and top-notch quality. Michael, Janee, and V were all wonderful, truly made the experience even better. The entire place feels welcoming, and you can tell the servers, bartenders, and cooks work together as a great team. Definitely give it a shot if you love supporting small, locally owned businesses!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Barb James
Each course of the special four course meal was elegantly executed, beginning with the beet root roasted over glowing embers, the celery root stuffed with truffle, the braised beef boneless short rib and ended with a paw paw custard tartlet, floating in a caramel sauce. I didn’t opt for the total wine pairing but the Argentine Chardonnay I chose was a perfect accompaniment to the appetizer and second course. Our attentive, cheerful waitress served the meal with gentle enthusiasm for each course. It was a perfect meal. What a restaurant treasure for Des Moines!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Pamela Rose
The Harbinger exceeded every expectation! Even though our reservation was 30 minutes late, the manager called ahead and offered to cover a round of drinks at the bar next door. From there, he walked us through the menu thoughtfully, mindful of allergies and everyone’s preferences, and never rushed us. The food was outstanding — elevated, modern Asian fusion with high-quality, seasonal, and local ingredients, beautifully presented. He even adapted dishes to accommodate dairy-free options using coconut cream. The drinks were amazing, the atmosphere was chic yet inviting, and our party of eight left completely satisfied and impressed. One of the most memorable dinners I’ve had in my 36 years — absolutely will be back! Thank you for your gift of food and service!!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Joanne Donahue
Best restaurant in Des Moines. Delicious small plate variety. Lovely drinks.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Steamed Buns
Dan Evans
Outstanding, one of the best dining experiences in the Metro. Great setting, excellent service by Grace. Amazing menu full of taste, loved my Black Pepper Pork Noodles and all others enjoyed their meals too.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Steamed Buns, Kitchen, Bao Buns, Carrots
Harbinger absolutely nailed it for date night.
My wife and I have been twice now, and both visits have been outstanding—so much so that it’s become our favorite date-night restaurant in Des Moines. The whole experience feels intentional: creative food that’s genuinely memorable, drinks that are just as thoughtfully done, and service that’s attentive without ever feeling fussy.
Honestly, we love it so much we always forget to take any pictures of the food or drinks—because once it hits the table, we’re just in it.
Both times we left saying the same thing: “Yep… we’re coming back.” Harbinger has that rare combination of elevated and relaxed, special and comfortable—exactly what you want when you’re out with your favorite person.
We’re already looking forward to many more visits. Highly recommend.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I am a foodie through and through, always seeking out new tastes and experiences. Nothing has even come close to Harbinger. Each bite was a meditation and an experience that truly felt like art at the highest level. World class at an affordable price. Portion sizes are small, so do not come expecting to leave full, but rather to experience art.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Great food and service though definitely a special occasion price. Their courses are varied and delicious
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The magicians at Harbinger have consistently served me the best meals I've ever had in my entire life. Every bite is like fireworks in my brain.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Harbinger is, without question, the finest dining experience in Des Moines, and truly one of the most memorable restaurants I’ve experienced anywhere.
The food is where the magic truly happens. Each dish is a work of art, layered, balanced, and deeply intentional. The flavors are bold yet refined, creative yet harmonious. Every course feels like a conversation between nature and technique.
Chef Joe Tripp and his team demonstrate extraordinary talent and vision. You can taste the care, the precision, and the passion in every bite. It’s not just dinner, it’s an experience that lingers long after the last course.
Harbinger sets the standard for culinary excellence in this city. In my opinion, it is absolutely deserving of Michelin recognition. A true gem.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Had the valentine menu. Wagyu was tough I couldn’t eat it mine my wife’s was good though, couple of dishes were room temp and another was freezing cold for 175 per person you expect 10/10 everything perfect.
Service was fine but for 175 per person I expected more
I loved it! Unique foods, and each one bursting with flavor. They suggest you order 3-6 plates per person, because they're smaller. You get such a fun variety of food to try, and they stagger the delivery so you're receiving your food consistently throughout your dining time. Also, don't skip dessert - it was amazing!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Fantastic and memorable! We enjoyed every exquisite morsel. The experience was akin to eating at an art museum. The service was professional, kind, knowledgeable, and incredibly efficient. We found the menu to have plentiful vegetarian options—which is often scarce in the Midwest. I think we ordered all of them! My husband and I were celebrating his retirement after 33+ years of service in the Army National Guard. It was a big day for us, the Harbinger team made it incredibly special, warm, and memorable. Thank you so much!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Seriously, one of the best places in Des Moines! Go for happy hour and try their incredible food!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I stopped in with my fiancé for some steamed buns and some drinks and we will definitely be back. The first drink I ordered was the melo down and it was really really good. The salt, sugar, citric acid, Chinese 5 spice rim is something I would have never considered trying, but it was seriously so good. I also tried the paper moon (without egg) and it was truly the perfect after meal cocktail. I love toasted sesame, but again, I never would have considered it to be in a cocktail. It was a very deep almost savory flavor that was brightened up with the yuzu. I was a little bit let down by the steamed buns. I was under the impression they would still have the mushroom bun but it was replaced with squash instead. The chile and pumpkin seed topping was absolutely delicious but I am not at all a fan of squash. The chicken one was pretty good but I would have loved some spice to it. I also tried the pork belly which was too fatty for me but my fiancé really liked it. I would love to see some more vegetarian options for those of us who aren't big on squash.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
This place has such a cool vibe! It’s a bit on the pricey side, but you’re absolutely paying for local, fresh food and top-notch quality. Michael, Janee, and V were all wonderful, truly made the experience even better. The entire place feels welcoming, and you can tell the servers, bartenders, and cooks work together as a great team. Definitely give it a shot if you love supporting small, locally owned businesses!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Each course of the special four course meal was elegantly executed, beginning with the beet root roasted over glowing embers, the celery root stuffed with truffle, the braised beef boneless short rib and ended with a paw paw custard tartlet, floating in a caramel sauce. I didn’t opt for the total wine pairing but the Argentine Chardonnay I chose was a perfect accompaniment to the appetizer and second course. Our attentive, cheerful waitress served the meal with gentle enthusiasm for each course. It was a perfect meal. What a restaurant treasure for Des Moines!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The Harbinger exceeded every expectation! Even though our reservation was 30 minutes late, the manager called ahead and offered to cover a round of drinks at the bar next door. From there, he walked us through the menu thoughtfully, mindful of allergies and everyone’s preferences, and never rushed us.
The food was outstanding — elevated, modern Asian fusion with high-quality, seasonal, and local ingredients, beautifully presented. He even adapted dishes to accommodate dairy-free options using coconut cream. The drinks were amazing, the atmosphere was chic yet inviting, and our party of eight left completely satisfied and impressed.
One of the most memorable dinners I’ve had in my 36 years — absolutely will be back! Thank you for your gift of food and service!!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Best restaurant in Des Moines. Delicious small plate variety. Lovely drinks.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Steamed Buns
Outstanding, one of the best dining experiences in the Metro. Great setting, excellent service by Grace. Amazing menu full of taste, loved my Black Pepper Pork Noodles and all others enjoyed their meals too.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Steamed Buns, Kitchen, Bao Buns, Carrots
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