This hip (and let’s be honest, not-so-secret-anymore) East Village spot has racked up both local love and national attention as one of the best new bars in Des Moines. So…what’s the story behind it?
We sat down with The Contrary’s owner, Billy Weathers, to get the story behind how it all came together and what’s on the horizon.
Q: Tell us a little bit about your background. What led you here?
I was born in 1991 and raised in the Sherman Hill & Beaverdale neighborhoods in Des Moines, before moving to Las Vegas. I was in Las Vegas until graduating from high school, and I came back to attend Simpson College. After graduating in 2013, I set up shop in Des Moines. I started recording music and hosting events with friends around the city. In 2014, I got my big break to open for Kid Ink and I haven’t looked back since. I have always wanted a place that I felt comfortable at, that was fly, and that felt like home. This is what led to the inception of The Contrary.
Q: What sparked your idea for The Contrary? Where did the concept come from, and what need were they looking to fill?
My brother and best friend, Jim Stessman, used to manage the cocktail bar Hello, Marjorie when we were roommates back in 2019. That was my introduction to cocktail culture. When traveling, I’d always seek out lounges or places that felt fly, tucked off, and special in their own way. I always respected the spaces that Des Moines had created, but I wanted a chance to show what we could do.
I wanted to create a space for the creatives, the misfits, the wanders, the professionals, and everyone else in between. We all deserve a space where we don’t have to perform or wear a mask. You’re allowed to show up as yourself at Contrary, and that’s one of the special aspects in which I believe we’ve captured.
Q: Why Des Moines? What makes this city right for what you’re building?
Why not Des Moines? There are creatives here. There are small businesses. There’s a growing population of people looking for spaces that feel good. The stubbornness that led me to stay here musically was, “If I can make it in Des Moines, I can make it anywhere”.
Cities become special because folks with talent, drive, and creativity decide to stick around and invest in them. Make them cool. And make them special.
Q: What makes your place stand out in Greater Des Moines right now? What are people responding to?
A multitude of reasons. Our staff. Our atmosphere. The music. The location. The energy is unique to us. It’s a lot like your favorite song or album. There’s a reason you always go back to it. There’s a special feeling it gives you that you’re almost unable to explain, but it makes you feel good. You have to be there. You have to encompass the space to understand or get what everyone is talking about. And once you arrive, you’re like, “I get it now”. That’s what I believe we’ve created, and are doing our best to maintain, with The Contrary.
Q: What’s a detail most people might not notice but that you’re really proud of?
The tile underneath the bar where our five bar seats sit match almost perfectly to the three arch backbar that was created by Foster Woodworking specifically for the space. When it’s packed on a Saturday night, and the under light is shining dimly adding a glow, it’s something that makes me smile and feel good every time.
Q: How did it feel to get nominated for a James Beard Award for Best New Bar?
It was genuinely a huge surprise that we’re all extremely honored and grateful for. To be honest, I had to do my research about the award, the Foundation, and how prestigious it really is. I had heard of the awards but wasn’t aware of how big it was for the city. It gives Des Moines something to brag about and be proud of.
Q: How does your space fit the bigger Des Moines cocktail scene?
I just hope people enjoy the space. That they look forward to coming in and having a good time. I hope we continue to inspire other groups or young entrepreneurs to take a risk, stay here, and invest in a city that’ll take care of them if they do things the right way.
Q: What’s next?
Continue to take care of what got us to this point. Maintain and sustain. We have a responsibility to see this through to the best of our ability. Our entire team knows we can continue to sharpen and tighten up things on a daily basis. We see all the success and approval as a blessing that we should always take care of and cherish.
Beyond the Bio
Q: How would you describe the vibe or experience in three words?
On The Contrary.
Q: Off the clock, where are you headed?
The Cave, The Lift, The Better Homes & Gardens Test Garden off 15th Street (specifically in the summer when it’s open during lunch), Renovation Jungle, Goode’s Greenhouse, Petals & Moss, Masao, the studio, my crib, or anywhere outside once it’s about 60.
Q: What’s one thing visitors shouldn’t miss in DSM right now?
I’d be bogus to say The Contrary, right? There’s a parking garage just off Grand and 5th in the East Village. If you get a chance to watch the sunset from the top level, the view of the city mixed with the cotton candy sky is a beautifully crafted image that’ll bring you a sense of joy and peace. I highly recommend it.
Q: Favorite cocktail at your bar and somewhere else?
The Fur Elyse at our place. And Hello, Marjorie has a pistachio cocktail that’s fire.
Made in Des Moines, With Love
The Made in DSM series is our excuse to get up close and personal with the movers, shakers, and makers running the Greater Des Moines area. These are the faces behind the spots you name-drop, recommend, and secretly gatekeep. We pull back the curtain beyond the logo, the hype, and the perfectly plated dish to serve you stories that will leave a lasting impression. Stay tuned for future Made in DSM stories!
