A Bar
A Bar — photo 2
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A Bar

5800 Fleur Dr, Des Moines, IA

★★★★★4.7(335 Google reviews)

Crema's Take

This Des Moines cocktail bar feels like the neighborhood spot everyone wishes was near them, with bartenders who craft thoughtfully interesting drinks at surprisingly approachable prices—think creative seasonal cocktails and their beloved signature "Bartender's Handshake." Whether you're perched at the bar for a genuine conversation or settling in for small rotating tapas plates with impeccable music and moody lighting, the whole place has that rare quality of being both polished and genuinely welcoming.

What to expect

MeetingsTraditional drinksLate nightsLight foodSlow sitSignature drinksSpecialty drinks

Google Reviews

Heather LaPorte
★★★★★a month ago

You never know what you're going to learn or who you're going to run into sitting at the bar. But it's always interesting. The drinks are made with care, and the interior is beautifully done to echo a "downhome bar" as if it was re-imagined with a very keen eye for style. It can get crowded, but it's the perfect place to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon.

Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen
★★★★★4 months ago

This place was super cute! It had a cozy local vibe, tasteful holiday lighting, and made me wish I lived closer! I ordered a seasonal cocktail where proceeds go to a local charity, and I ordered some dumplings for snacking. All were so good that I forgot to get a good picture.

Ryan Leemkuil
★★★★★4 months ago

Outstanding music, lighting, and a wide variety of spirits available. Bar snacks are offered but the kitchen typically closes at 9pm.

Mike Hurt
★★★★★a year ago

I absolutely love The Bartender's Handshake. Extremely good and interesting drinks at prices lower than most. They've also started small "tapas" style plates which they rotate frequently. Pictured is the best hummus I've ever had! The location is small and intimate, but clean and does not feel cramped. Lighting is dim and styling is retro. They have a back patio, which seemed decently sized, but sadly it was too cold to enjoy. I'd never think twice about coming here!

Lucas Jensen
★★★★★2 years ago

Fantastic cocktail bar with fun signature drinks and affordable classics. The patio is great, and inside feels like a neighborhood spot that's been there for years. The bartenders are nice and knowledgeable, and will make you anything you can think of.

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