By Wini Moranville
Sometimes when I want to try a restaurant that my husband (aka Mr. Sportcoat) might veto, I tell him I’m taking him on a “mystery trip.” This was definitely the case when I dragged him out to, of all places, theHy-Vee in Ankeny.
While he raised an eyebrow as we pulled into the parking lot, he was happy as could be a few minutes later when we were sipping wine on the pleasant patio.
Indeed, Hy-Vee has definitely said “game on” since Whole Foods Market came to town. Its Market Grille restaurants in some locations (including Waukee, Ankeny and Urbandale) have upped the ante with table service, a full bar and plenty to choose from: sushi, pasta, pizza, sandwiches, steaks (yes-steaks), seafood (such as scallops, ahi tuna, sea bass), barbecue–really, just about everything you’d expect on an American menu.
I thoroughly enjoyed a fresh and tasty burger, while Mr. Sportcoat happily tucked into the meaty ribs. What we enjoyed most, however, were the well-shaded patio with a greenscape view, the affable service and the fact that they didn’t stick it to us on the wines: Prices start at $5 a glass, a price point long abandoned at most polished-casual venues.
The Hy-Vee Market Grille in Ankeny is at 2510 S.W. State St.; 963-3140. Check out their menu here.
