Written by Madison Stano, Des Moines Girl Fall Intern
If you’re in on the Des Moines food scene, or perhaps an avid Lua Brewing fan, you’ve seen all the hype and hubbub around Either/Or. The owners of Lua Brewing are bringing their new, modern eatery and patio, opening in West Des Moines off of Grand Ave. this past month. We’re here to give you all the tea; what to expect, what the vibe is, and overall, our first impressions.
Our “Either/Or” First Impressions
Your Grandma’s House, But Cooler
Okay, you might have a cool grandma, but does she have an artfully decorated bathroom of strong, female representation through comic pop art wallpaper? Either/Or has nailed the mix of 1960s/70s design elements that translate perfectly into the modern era. The first thing you may notice on the side of the building would be the colorful art by local DSM muralist, Van Holmgren, as well as the flat/mid-century building profile with large windows. They also have a huge patio with a custom-built play area for kids!
The entire building is full of eclectic features from their dinner plate wall above the kitchen window, to their gallery wall near the front door. Small, colorful mushroom lamps sit along the bar and intricately embroidered pillows are set along the backsides of table benches. Tying in a bohemian theme, large wicker lanterns are strung up in rows all throughout the space with matching mid-century wooden furniture and large woven rugs to add even more fine detail.
Starting Off Strong: Cocktails & Apps
You know we had to go all out in order to truly get the full Either/Or experience. Starting off, we ordered the Corpse Reviver II and the N/A Grapefruit Basil Highball. These bad boys were strong! Both being tangy and citrusy, they were served in eclectic glassware that really gave off that overall vintage vibe. Next, appetizer time.
As fellow midwesterners, you know we had to order the cheese curds. But these weren’t your ordinary curds. The Mexican cheese curds at Either/Or is Oaxaca cheese, breaded in what seemed to be a panko-like crust, topped with pepper rings and cilantro. And, of course, a nice bowl of ranch (make it chipotle) on the side. The cheese pull on these babies was fantastic! It was just the right amount of spice, kicking this classic app up a notch. Can we get a round of applause for this menu design?!
Savory Sammies: The Main Course
As a 20-somethin’ who is trying to “ball on a budget”, the main entrees looked SO good. We asked our server her recommendations, and she said the E/O (Either/Or) Burger or the Nashville Hot Chicken were her favs. As a woman who can handle some spice, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to tempt fate this evening, so I opted for their other chicken sandwich option- curry.
Their E/O Burger is on rotation, so this evening’s feature was two of those “classic” Lua smashburger patties with cheese and a rich bacon jam. Tender, juicy, it truly was a tasty sandwich that you can’t go wrong ordering. I, however, was privy to the curry chicken sandwich. The comforting, aromatic curry spices and warm fried chicken made this sandwich taste like it was a little hug from home. The sweet, tangy pickles on top made for the best addition too! Both sandwiches came with french fries, similar to McDonalds but elevated with just the right amount of special seasoning on top to give them that extra “oomph”.
Signing Off With Something Sweet
Contemplating between their basque cheesecake and lavender tres leches cake, we chose the latter. After all, it’s not every day you can get lavender flavor that isn’t in a coffee drink! I think we made the right decision, because this cake was gorgeous. It was the perfect amount of moist and sweet, with just enough salt from the homemade (cream cheese?) frosting that made this dessert so savory. Not to mention, we watched as one of Either/Or’s chefs carefully piped the frosting himself along the prep counter in the dining room. You could tell that so much thought went into every menu item, down to the last detailed ingredient, including presentation.
Our First Impressions
Either/Or knocked it out the park. The perfect balance between their cozy ambiance and gourmet menu, this is a restaurant everyone can enjoy. We were blown away at the fun design elements, and the food was fantastic. We can’t wait to go back again (when our wallets are a lil’ bit thicker) and try one of their entrees; the baked salmon or airline chicken. Also, be on the lookout for their “newer” menu items coming soon!
Best For
Date night, girls night, and leisurely family time. The retro-meets-modern, dim vibe in the restaurant was a hot spot for S.O’s and gals- with the patio the perfect place for kids to hangout in the play area and parents to drink, sitting under the quiet, moody awning nearby.
Our Favorite Part
The overall thoughtfully-curated 1960s/70s design with little nods to modern trends.
We Have a Crush On
The menu. It’s not everyday you get such a diverse culinary experience without having to break the bank.
Keep Up With Either/Or On Social!
For updates to menu changes or rotations, future events, or restaurant news in general- give Either/Or a follow! Also, we recommend booking a table in advance to ensure space, especially during their first couple months of operation.
Where Should Des Moines Girl Go Next?
Is there an under-hyped food or drink spot you absolutely love? Got a cult-classic DSM restaurant or bar we haven’t tried? Or, perhaps there’s somewhere you’ve always wanted to go but are waiting for the perfect opportunity. Let us know!
