Does this title make it seem like we’re headed into an intense review from cocktail bar aficionados? If so, sorry to disappoint. We’re not reviewers over here – just re-transplanted Des Moines natives who moved back from New York City.
What we are, though, is PUMPED to see a swanky, NYC-style cocktail “parlor” in Downtown Des Moines.
According to their website, Good News, Darling is a small, experimental, and detail-focused cocktail parlor located directly behind Hello, Marjorie. They describe their drinks as “intricate, modern, and classic cocktails.” With only 26 seats, it is designed to feel intimate and moody.
When we arrived, we waited outside Hello, Marjorie to be personally escorted into Good News, Darling. It’s hidden! We were seated at the bar and welcomed with warm tea and the perfect moody lighting.
The vibes hit you in the face here – in the best way. We were transported to a basement speakeasy in Greenwich Village. For lack of a better term, it’s sexy.
It’s easy to get caught up in the atmosphere and forget to look around at the incredible artwork in the space.
Our bartender, Josh, introduced himself and explained how it works. Good News, Darling offers both starters and house cocktails. Yes, this is the first time we’ve had a two-course drink meal. We started with the “Ranch Water” and the “Fernet and Coke.” Both were delicious, complex, and perfectly sized.
For our house cocktails, we went with the Apple Jack – Basil Hayden’s bourbon, Calvados, Apple Jacks (yes those), muscovado gum, strawberry bitters, and cedar. It tasted like an elevated old-fashioned that was more fun because you knew it had Apple Jacks.
With about ten minutes left in our reservation, Josh offered us freshly brewed coffee, which we politely declined in order to “sleep early,” only to end up at Ernie’s until 1 a.m.
We started out with 10/10 drinks and that’s all that matters.
BEST FOR:
Date nights, one-on-ones with your best girlfriends, or after a fancy dinner! We wouldn’t be opposed to going alone for some Mad Men-style napkin writing time either.
OUR FAVORITE PART:
Tie between the vibes and the drinks.
WE HAVE A CRUSH ON:
Alexander Prins’ photography and creative work for the promotion of Good News, Darling and other DMDT Hospitality & Lifestyle bars. Definitely go give him a follow! DMDT (Des Moines Does Things) is not slowing down with Secret Admirer coming in Summer 2021.
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Where should we go next?
