Three Best Hamburger Joints in Des Moines, Iowa

I think you'll agree that three best hamburger joints in Des Moines, Iowa aren't the most fancy places in town. However, you will be chomping down on a tasty burger and most likely will be stuffed when you're done. Besides that, you'll have enjoyed something unique in style and fun.

Stella's Blue Star Diner

One of my favorite places to take the grandkids is Stella's, one of the best hamburger joints in town. Stella's is just down the street and you walk directly back into the 50s as you walk in their front door. From the chrome tables to the funky 50s decor, you may remember living with those things or you have just entered your grandma's house.

Stella's is located at 3281 100th Street in Urbandale. The price range for food is mid-range and it's a great place for kids and adults alike. The attire, of course, is casual and Stella's does not offer delivery services.

What Stella's does offer, is one of the best hamburgers in Des Moines. Piled high with pickles, onions, lettuce and cheese if you desire, it comes to your table served with crispy fries. Another must have at Stella's is the milk shake. The servers make it a real dining experience by asking the kids to place their glass on their head or forehead. The server then climbs on a chair and from far above pours that shake right into the glass. They warn the kids - don't move - and then even tell them to stick out their tongue for a tasty treat.

B&B Grocery

B&B Grocery, Meat & Deli is widely regarded as one of Des Moines' best places to eat. In 2008, the readers of the Des Moines Register voted B&B's Dad's Killer Sandwich as the best deli sandwich in town. For phone order dial 515-243-7607

Hamburgers are inexpensive and very, very tasty. They are served on fresh home made buns. B&B is truly a down-home tiny neighborhood store located on the south side of Des Moines. The Italian family that began this place, continues to have a hand in the current operations. Side dishes from their deli are to die for and you will be full when you finish this tasty hamburger and side treat. You can order from a variety of different sizes and choices or place a special order and you will be pleased at this special Des Moines' hamburger joint.

Indeed, B&B Grocery is a best kept secret on the local Des Moines scene. You will be pleased also with their Italian meat choices, breads and many other deli specialties.

Drake Diner

Drake Diner is located close to Drake University in the center of Des Moines at 1111 25th Street. Stop in for American, breakfast/lunch and burgers. Prices are under $10 per entree. The Diner is kid-friendly and has outdoor dining for great summer lunches and evening stops.

The Drake Diner serves up a piled high, delicious burger grilled to suit your taste. You will find the usual additions - lettuce, pickle onion - and the fries are crispy and great. Staff is friendly and fun and you will find a great mix of Des Moines folks when you visit the Diner. The service is fast and you will receive good value for your money. The 4-scoop milkshakes are a delicious addition to your burger choice, but expect to pay around $5 for the shake.

This neighborhood gem remains a favorite burger joint for Des Moines' folks and visitors.

I have managed to visit each of these burger stops and have enjoyed all three. Each has a different style and appeals to a slightly different crowd, but for being favorites and serving great food, they're all winners.

True, these unique little hamburger joints aren't fancy - but they suited my fancy.