Feb 7, 2012

Even though it’s a short drive away from Des Moines I don’t know Ames that well.  As a Hawkeye I don’t have too many reasons to venture into Cyclone Country.  In college I would make an occasional trip to the city for a concert or to meet up with friends and leave quickly and groggily the next morning.  To be honest there are really only two landmarks I...

Jan 24, 2012

I’ve never been to the United Kingdom.  Also, I’m not much of a soccer fan.  But I do appreciate Limey’s in West Des Moines.  Normally when there is a tiny bar nestled into a strip mall it’s a plain place, with the lack of personality matched only by its lack of quality beers. Limey’s beats back all of these stereotypes.  The bar has a British...

Dec 16, 2011

The atmosphere: Stadium energy, farm motif. The only thing missing is the dense smell of hay. For the big games throughout the year and virtually any Sunday during football season, this place packs out. It’s loud, galvanized, and a quick scan around the room reveals a sea of craned necks aimed upwards at the multitude of flat screens. When you come to Chicken...

Dec 9, 2011

Some residents that live near the Des Moines International Airport said that the planes can be loud at times.  That alone should be sufficient enough evidence for us to all agree that the airport needs to be closed for business immediately.  It does not matter that it provides direct job opportunities to our region, brings new people to our city 12 months out...

Nov 18, 2011

The vibe: Respectable. Tasteful. Cozy. If only these captured the essence. The only things missing at The Continental are the mahogany and leather bound books. This dark, wooden lounge evokes so much comfort and warmth it practically beckons you to get out of the cold and cozy up to a fall beverage. The Continental challenges its customers to respect themselves...

Nov 4, 2011

The vibe: A rock and roll bar with all the ‘tude and none of the brawls. Bombay knows exactly the kind of bar it is. It sends a subliminal “Piss off!” to conformity and those that embody it. The black walls, graffiti-inspired art and name of this joint will have you believe this music-driven escape from mainstream Des Moines is a hard core rock and roll...