Proof

Nice, clean open space without being noisy. The service is excellent, explaining the unusual cuisine, attentive, but just the right amount.

And the food? Ahh. Some of the best I've had. Ever. And each dish was unique. Not something you'll find again. Enjoy.

We came here for my boyfriend's birthday, kind of on a whim. We were pleasantly surprised when we were able to book a same-day reservation for the full tasting menu!

First, I cannot express just how gracious the staff was. Every single encounter was warm, inviting, enthusiastic, genuine and lovely. We felt like such welcome guests throughout our entire visit. These are people I want to be friends with!

The tasting menu was thoughtful and exquisite. To go on about each course would not even skim the surface, nor do each dish the justice it deserves. I'm including photos of our menu and each item for context.

We both ooh'd and ahh'd at each presentation, and delighted in just how unique each item was.

The absolute star of the show, though, was the coriander ice cream. Never in my life have I had a true, emotional experience as a result of eating something. But, this dish--it kept me on the verge of laughter and tears and I was almost delirious with the incredible amount of thought put into it. I didn't want it to end.

This is now a must-do destination, and I will bring all of my out-of-town friends and family here for a meal when they come to visit.

We're lucky to have such a true gem in Des Moines.

We got take out from Proof for my birthday lunch and it was SO SO SO good.

The fried shrimp dumplings was our choice of appetizer. Golden and crispy on the outside, and a nice *crunch* with every bite. Loved the dipping sauce that came with it.

The buttermilk fried fish sandwich was literally the best fish sandwich I have ever had. It was juicy, flaky, crispy and literally melts in the mouth. The buns were so fluffy, making it even more enjoyable. This is a must try if you're ever ordering from Proof!! We also got the adobo chicken sandwich, just as delectable.

Super friendly folks that work there, hoping to dine in here one day!

Thanks for the great experience, Proof!

They're closed forever at this location. Loved the food and service. They will be missed dearly.

This.place.is.amazing.

The food is what you would expect from a Michelin starred restaurant.

It's really challenging to articulate the experience as the cuisine was so exceptional and entirely different than what I'm familiar with. The high level Flavors and pairings, too advanced for me to imagine - came out tasting so uniquely amazing and refreshing.

We went on a second Saturday where they provide a 7 course experience.

This night even sampled the Japanese Wagu steak that prior, I'd only seen on online or on tv. That steak was unlike anything I'd ever had - EVER. It was prepared impossibly perfectly. I'm not exaggerating here: No words of the human language could do justice in describing that steak!

The vibe and ambiance of the restaurant is also highly unique. Very elegant, yet also had a very casual, warm and inviting feel to it. It did not feel hoity toity at all in spite of the spectacular, high class caliber of the food. Which only further added to the uniquely special experience.

The staff was extremely pleasant, the kitchen worked their tails off - and the head chef is a supremely special talent.

I apologize if this review is vague. I felt compelled to mention something, without having any idea how to explain how amazing this place truly was!

Highly recommend, all over from a large group to a nice date to even a casual affair.

Definitely will be back!

The pictures to me don't really touch how beautiful each dish was in person. And I'm sorry i lost all control and awareness when the Wagu came out so didn't get any of those.

We went to Proof for the first time and tried the tasting menu. It was delightful! We tried a few cocktails and enjoyed them all. The food was amazing! My partner and I loved everything, even it's that we hadn't expected to like. The environment was fun and the staff were so nice and made us feel very comfortable. We wish we could go back tomorrow!

The January "Second Saturday" was palate pleasing to say the least.

The space has a cozy and contemporary vibe; perfect for a date night.

Second Saturday is a ten-course tasting menu full of surprises. The theme for January was Kitchen Freestyle featuring "local and seasonal produce and protein, a treat from the bar and, as always, a few surprises up our sleeves."

The knowledge of the servers was impressive. They know the menu and each dish down to the detail. Each course is so simple yet masterful! Each dish left me excited for the next one. A refreshing golden beet lemonade was given to reset the palate after the 5th course. Had a delicious, refreshing, and earthy touch to it.

It is difficult to recall what each dish entailed--I made sure to take many photos for this reason. My favorite dish of the night was lamb and a chickpea pairing creation. The best lamb I have ever had! There was also a duck and pork pressed dish paired with cherry that was delicious!

Everything was absolutely amazing. The owner also came over and talked with us after dinner.

I definitely recommend reserving a spot for Second Saturday. It is a blind tasting adventure you won't regret!

I don't give many five stars but this place was excellent. Firstly the server at the bar took the time to let me taste a number of wines and made good recommendations. I had the pork tenderloin and some anti-pasto type appetizers and everything was immaculate and very tasty. Highly recommended.

Food was well done. Total vibe was off. My wife and I ordered the four course taster. Two of her orders were wrong, it took time to flag them down-correct, she watched me eat mine. Did the wine pairing-tasting each for an additional $100. Overall good; however the only red was incredibly peppery. Asked for a different red & was told there were no others uncorked?? I had chicken main course boxed for leftovers & never received it back.

Total bill for 2 with wine tasting, excluding tip, was $225.00. Won't be back. Disappointing experience for my wife's Birthday.

Guys, this place is amazing. The service is impeccable, the food is so flavorful and the overall atmosphere is very modern but also playful. Went here for second anniversary and did the seven course tasting with wine/cocktail pairing. BEST COCKTAILS OF MY LIFE. Go to Proof, check it out, support this amazing restaurant.