Written by Madison Stano, Des Moines Girl Fall Intern
Basic Bird in Beaverdale. Now try saying that three times fast. This hip, new Korean fried chicken joint opened its doors only weeks ago- having survived what seemed like a week-long snow storm, they’re now booming with business and finding themselves sold out every few days. Did you know their chicken is gluten free? They have vegetarian options too! We were lucky to grab a spot at a bar counter and order up some lunch— here are our first impressions.
Your Not-So-“Basic” Bird
“Basic”- definition; only interested in things mainstream, popular, and trending (Source: Urban Dictionary).
If you’ve been on the internet for the past 5-8 years, give or take, then you may be familiar with the put-down term “basic”. Often used to describe someone as having no unique taste- we’re here to tell you that there’s absolutely nothing “basic” about this bird.
A sister restaurant born in the Harbinger kitchen during 2020, Basic Bird hatched its own brick and mortar just after the start of this new year in Beaverdale. During Covid, like many other restaurants, Harbinger was experimenting with ways they could reach their customers while they were closed for dining. They took one of their menu items of Korean fried chicken and created “Basic Bird” for takeout on Sundays, and then expanded it into the week. Spoiler alert: it was a huge hit. Talk to any long-standing DSM foodie and they’re likely to reminisce about getting their fried chicken fix for takeout during the 2020 “support local” movement.
The Digs
Right off the bat, their branding is whimsical, vibrant, and just overall adorable. Who doesn’t love caricatures of cute, round baby chicks? Throughout the space they incorporate bright lots of other colors and round shapes through thoughtfully-designed murals and graphics by local DSM muralist and artist, Nic Roth. The restaurant itself is small, but mighty— tables lining both sides, a bar/high-top seating in the middle, and another bar high-top counter facing out the front windows.
At the far back of the restaurant is where you order at the counter and are handed a number to take back to your seat for a server to bring out your food- similar to Panera’s style of service. Be sure to clean up your table once you’re done and separate out your dishes at the service station before you leave too.
The Fix Ins
Choosing my lunch for the day was probably the most stressful part, especially with so many unique options. Their menu is split into two main sections, with a sub menu for drinks/beverages. You can choose from “The Bird” section, which includes all of their classic Korean fried chicken (or cauliflower for the vegetarian/vegan girlies) options, sauces, and three cold sides. Or, from their “Beyond the Bird” section which has all sorts of classic Korean favs such as corn cheese and honey butter fries, to dumplings and kimchi fried rice.
I decided to go with the 5-piece boneless wings with Double Dunk sauce (a combo of their sweet and spicy sauces), cabbage kimchi, Korean potato salad and marinated brussels sprouts. My lunch date decided on the same, but opted for the cucumber kimchi and the soy garlic shishito peppers. And let me tell you- we were AMAZED. Not only was service quick, but the food was killer too. The fried chicken was super crunchy and incredibly flavorful, with tender dark and white meat. The sides we tried were fresh palate cleansers in between bites, tangy and slightly spicy.
After our meal, the general consensus was that we’d definitely be back soon. We loved how vibrant the atmosphere was. Busy, but not loud- and the service was both friendly and fast. Basic Bird should be on your “must try” list of restaurants for the Des Moines area.
Our First Impressions
Best For
Lunch break or a weekend hangout with friends. Their lunch service was fast, perfect for when you need to get out of the office for a bit. Basic Bird also serves up their menu for takeout, and at large quantities. This would be a crowd-pleaser for a Saturday night in with your friends, paired with a few bottles of beer or soju!
Our Favorite Part
The menu. There are so many cool, unique items served that you aren’t likely to find anywhere else in the DSM area. If you’re a foodie who is always looking to try new things- then this should be your next stop!
We Have a Crush On
The flavors. Not sure it wasn’t mentioned enough, but every food item was dripping with flavor- it’ll keep you wanting to come back for more.
Keep Up With All Things Basic Bird On Social!
Support this new, growing restaurant in Beaverdale by giving them a follow on Facebook and Instagram! (Also, if you haven’t already, check out Harbinger!)
Where Should Des Moines Girl Go Next?
What’s new in the Des Moines food scene? Got a place you want us to try? Des Moines Girl is always looking for opportunities to highlight locally-owned restaurants in the area. Shoot us a message if you’d like to suggest where we go next!
