Crav·ing ('kraviNG), noun: a powerful desire for something. A phenomenon I know all too well. Hint: it could be because I'm 7 months pregnant. The cravings are real and I wanted to share them with the world. But you don't have to be pregnant to enjoy my top ten craveable favorites from the metro. You just have to really enjoy local food.
1. Something Italian - Tiramisu
Yes this inconspicuous mini fridge hidden along the skywalk holds the holy grail of all tiramisus. For a mere $3! Don't forget a slice of Papa Luigi to satisfy that pizza craving, too.
2. The Cheese Shop - Pig & Fig
LaQuercia Prosciutto, Fromager d'Affinois, fig spread and greens on a La Mie ciabatta. This delicious sandwich doesn't get more local than that.
3. Zombie Burger + Drink Lab - Zombie Unicorn Shake
Vanilla ice cream, marshmallow cream and Fruity Pebbles. I know what you're thinking; this has to be a myth? No, unicorn shakes are REAL!
4. Jethro's BBQ n' Bacon Bacon - Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Pancakes
A local establishment that serves breakfast all day? Now that's a concept I can get behind. Enjoy a stack of Grandma's made from scratch, buttermilk pancakes loaded with big chunks of chocolate chip cookie dough. Before you go in, make sure your car is parked a mile away so you have more time to walk off the pancakes.
5. Thelma's - Ice Cream Sandwiches
With flavors like snickerdoodle eggnog and cayenne chocolate chip you will never be disappointed. Grandma Thelma knew a thing or two about satisfying that cookie craving.
6. Palmer's Deli & Market - Cheeseburger Soup
This cheesy delicacy has real chunks of pickles in it. Every pregnant woman's dream come true. I'd eat this soup for breakfast.
7. Exile Brewing Co. - American Fries
Fresh cut fries, herbs, shaved parmesan and truffle oil served with a truffled aioli. You're welcome America.
8. Wasabi Chi - Fuji Yama Roll
Crab stick, cucumber, asparagus, avocado and mango wrapped in soy nori, topped with jumbo shrimp tempura and Grand Marnier sauce. A refreshing roll with a bit of deep-fried guilt on top. I promise this roll will have you going back for a second visit.
9. Science Center of Iowa - Astronaut Ice Cream Sandwich
Perhaps my strangest craving, but I wanted to make sure my son is on the path to NASA greatness. This neapolitan flavored snack tastes like those naughty marshmallows in Lucky Charms. Perfectly delicious.
10. Café Di Scala - Pasta
Yes, the wondrous carbohydrate of love. Any pasta will do at Café di Scala. They are the pasta masters of the Metro. Note: they are closing December 31 and reopening as Aposto, specializing in private parties, monthly Sunday brunches and special themed dinners on the first Saturday of each month. But don't worry, it will be the same pasta recipe!
So many local favorites, so little room left in my stomach. This is one satisfied baby getting a taste of Des Moines! What are your must-haves from the Metro? Share in the comments!
--LS