Back Open for Business

Top Bun Captain Coyle

Top Bun Food Truck has reopened for the spring, serving burgers like this, in addition to hot dogs, fries and more. 

By Karla Walsh

Just like many things related to coronavirus, the dining scene is rapidly evolving. Many restaurants closed completely when Gov. Kim Reynolds declared that their dining rooms could no longer serve. A few spots initially remained open for carryout, then decided to pause service, such as Angry Goldfish, Urban Cellar, and the Hall. And a handful closed at first then reopened—including a few we’ve already highlighted in previous weeks, like Eatery A and Wasabi. Now these additional spots are joining the ranks:

Clyde’s Fine Diner: New-to-town Clyde’s had been drawing crowds and presidential candidates to the East Village since it opened in October. They closed up shop in March, and have since reorganized to launch a curbside carryout program Fridays and Saturdays for dinner only. The menu features bottled cocktails, beer, wine, plus some of their snacks, salads and sandwiches. (111 E. Grand Ave., Suite 111, clydesfinediner.com)

Simon’s: While this Beaverdale Italian bistro often draws lines of neighbors aiming to score a table, you can now cut to the front (if you’re lucky enough to place your order in time!) Monday through Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. Call the restaurant directly at 515.255.3725 to order ahead for curbside carryout of their specialties, including Steak DeBurgo, lasagna and pizza. And yes, if you schedule your order early in the evening, you’re likely to score one of the treasured slices of red velvet cake regulars know and love. (5800 Franklin Ave., simonsdsm.com)

Top Bun Food Truck: Closed for the cold-weather season since last November, this popular food truck debuted for the season on April 18. Follow Top Bun’s whereabouts on Facebook to get your fix of top-notch burgers, dogs and fries—no drive-thru required. Online pre-ordering is available so your meal will be ready when you arrive. (Location varies, order.topbunfoodtruck.com)

Centro: If you’re craving carbs, consider scoring some pizza and pasta from this consistent, comforting downtown Italian restaurant. They reopened and now offer a (still-large) limited menu Tuesday through Saturday for lunch or dinner by carryout or delivery via DoorDash or Grubhub. (1003 Locust St., centrodesmoines.com)

Coming soon … Motley School Tavern: One Beaverdale’s newest neighborhood spots—a sister property to Eatery A, Harbinger, and Alba—will launch a menu for curbside carryout and Grubhub delivery at 4 p.m. today. We hear that executive chef Nic Gonwa has Korean and Nashville hot fried chicken, meatloaf, and eggplant Parm on the $25 dinners-for-two menu, and homemade pies are on the way soon. Watch the MST Facebook page for updates. (1903 Beaver Ave., mstdsm.com)

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