Try the Shakshuka during an outdoor brunch at Eatery A. Photographer: Duane Tinkey.
Writer: Karla Walsh
Patio season can’t come soon enough for diners—and for local restaurants that could use our support. So for Mother’s Day, a date or any day that could use a flavorful start, consider these patios for brunch.
Most Crowd-Pleasing Menu
Eatery A
The brunch menu at this Ingersoll hot spot is just as eclectic as its dinner offerings. That means you can take your meat-and-potatoes dad or your vegan cousin—the variety will be well-received by both picky and adventurous eaters. The Shakshuka, a cast-iron skillet-based dish of fiery San Marzano tomatoes, chickpeas, a soft egg and crumbled feta, comes with a side of sumac-spiced flatbread to sop up every drop. Or if you prefer a sweet start, try the blueberry compote-drizzled Lemon Ricotta Pancakes. (11 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday-Sunday; eateryadsm.com)
Top Outdoor View
Trellis Cafe
With a monthly menu that changes even more than the seasons, Trellis’ plant-forward cuisine is the perfect match for its setting inside the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. Sit on the patio for a beautiful west-facing view of the downtown skyline and to be surrounded by the water and flower gardens just a few feet away. Grab a table in the window-lined dining room if Mother Nature isn’t cooperating. Save time and a bit of appetite for a dessert from sister brand Doré Bakery. (11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday; dmbotanicalgarden.com/visit/dine)
Most Budget-Friendly Spot
The Dam Pub
You might know its south-side sibling, Angry Goldfish, but you should get familiar with this Beaverdale pub/restaurant—especially in the a.m. With rooftop dining and a small streetside patio, the pub offers a hearty menu featuring bacon, sausage and egg breakfast pizzas; doughnut burgers; and spicy breakfast lasagna. For the 21-plus crowd, try a mimosa bucket that comes with a few juice options and a bottle of bubbly. (Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; dampubdsm.com)
