Business Details
Your Go-To Spot for Comfort Food & Craft Beer in Des Moines
El Bait Shop is a premier destination for American comfort food and craft beer enthusiasts. Our menu features over 250 beers on draft, the largest craft beer selection west of the Mississippi, paired with homestyle comfort dishes like bacon-wrapped tater tots, classic burgers, and slow-roasted pot roast. We specialize in creating memorable dining experiences through our vibrant atmosphere, attentive service, and commitment to quality ingredients. Our catering services bring the same exceptional flavors to private events, tailoring menus to client preferences.With daily specials and a diverse selection of appetizers, entrees, and desserts, we aim to satisfy every palate. Our team prioritizes fresh preparation, from house-made chili to hand-battered onion rings, while maintaining a welcoming environment for casual diners and beer connoisseurs alike. Located in downtown Des Moines, we combine local charm with national recognition for our culinary creativity.
Services
Craft Beer Selection
Comfort Food Menu
Event Catering
Takeout Orders
Private Events Hosting
Merchandise Sales
Highlights and features
- We offer over 250 craft beers on tap, the largest selection west of the Mississippi
- Our menu features homestyle comfort food made fresh daily
- We provide customized catering services for private events
- Our team maintains a 4.5+ average rating from verified customer reviews
- We operate seven days a week with extended evening hours
What people say
Great service
Wonderful comfort foods
Best pizza burger
Amazing people
Great energy
Services
Craft Beer Selection
We offer 251 draft beers, the largest craft selection west of the Mississippi. Our rotating taps feature local Iowa brews and national favorites. Guests enjoy expert pairings with our comfort food menu in a lively pub atmosphere.
Comfort Food Menu
Our menu features classic American comfort dishes made fresh daily. Signature items include bacon-wrapped smokies, pot roast, gourmet burgers, and house-made chili. We serve lunch, dinner, and late-night options seven days a week.
Event Catering
We provide customized catering for weddings, corporate events, and private parties. Our team creates tailored menus featuring our popular comfort food items with full service staff and equipment rental options.
Takeout Orders
Guests can order our full menu for takeout through our website or delivery partners. We offer curbside pickup and ship our most popular items nationwide via our merch program.
Private Events
Our downtown location hosts private events in designated spaces. We accommodate groups from 20-200 with customizable food and beverage packages while maintaining access to our full bar and beer selection.
Questions
What type of food do you serve?
We specialize in American comfort food with homestyle classics like pot roast, burgers, wings, and gourmet tater tots. Our menu also features sandwiches, salads, and craft beer pairings.
Do you offer catering services?
Yes, we provide full-service catering for events of all sizes with customizable menus featuring our popular comfort food items and beer selections.
What are your operating hours?
We're open Sunday-Thursday 11 AM-11 PM and Friday-Saturday 11 AM-Midnight. Our kitchen serves until closing each night.
How many beers do you have on tap?
We maintain 251 draft beer taps, offering the largest craft beer selection west of the Mississippi River with both local and national brews.
Can I host a private event at your location?
Yes, we offer private event spaces for groups up to 200 people with customized food and beverage packages while maintaining access to our full bar.
