The Contrary

503 E Locust St, Des Moines

Recent Reviews

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Brian Blodgett

Alot of attention to detail. From the cocktail menu description to the preparation of the food. The exposed brick to the attention to lighting.

Definitely worth checking out.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Matt Gibson

Great atmosphere and service. Would recommend! 5 out of 5 easy!

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

Will Monk

Excellent cocktails. Drink menu has a great selection of new and creative cocktails. The staff was great, very helpful and inviting. Easily the best service we've had at any cocktail spot in Des Moines.

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

Gavyn Ferguson

The vibes were immaculate, I was blown away by the staff, the energy, the time they took to explain/recommend the cocktails. And on top of all that, it started at the top, the owner was behind the bar, greeting and conversing with every customer. It felt like the most well run business run by mind reading best friends

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Allan Keller

Service was great and drinka were great. A more quiet, upscale bar and atmosphere but still casual. Easy to talk

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

David Jones

Nice, quiet place. Good/ young atmosphere, drinks are different, very limited beer selection. unexpected surprise downtown Des Moines. I'll go back

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

Karter Smith

We had a wonderful experience hosting a small reception. Billy and his team were awesome to work with through the process!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Jason Henry

Started our night here, and glad we did! Warmly greeted on walking in, waiter was awesome! He knew his stuff, made great recommendations, and made us feel special. We only ordered 2 drinks, but were treated to complimentary fresh fruit (really fresh and tasty.. where did they get it?) we had plans or would have spent the whole evening there. Very casual yet classy. You will enjoy the visit!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Josh E.

Lived up to the hype.

Atmosphere: 4

Dashae Engler

Love the food and the vibes

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Julian Neely

Great vibes, amazing music, top notch drinks, and high level service. The drinks are unique and creative but most importantly taste good. Also, the chicken sliders are so delicious!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Anna Dewey

From the moment you walk in, the vibe is great! Warm lighting, fire decor, and good energy that sets the tone for a nice night. This cocktail lounge doesn’t just serve drinks; it serves an experience!!!

The cocktails are expertly crafted and tasty. I’m a mocktail gal and they never disappoint. The bartenders clearly know their craft and are as friendly as they are skilled.

Don’t get me started with the food! If you haven’t tried the Dates….run and get them now 😂😂 I could eat 20. Super fresh, healthy, and I love that I can grab late night eats in Des Moines that aren’t fast food!

Great music and love the touch of having a DJ. Every detail is intentional and I love it.

Whether you’re on a date, out with friends, or flying solo, this place should be your go to!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Sebastian Hasbun

11/10. My only complaint is that the place isn’t easier to find. The drinks are incredible. The service is incredible. It’s probably the best place to go in dsm.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Lindsey Paulson

Best cocktail bar in DSM 10/10

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Jennifer Villegas

Finally, the perfect cocktail bar for the East Village.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

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