Dining

Fans of HoQ, the sustainable farm-to-table restaurant in Des Moines’ East Village, will enjoy the savory goodness from owners Chef Suman and Dr. Cynthia Hoque in their new place at the Botanical Garden: Flora.

One specific ingredient comes from far beyond Iowa’s borders: his mother’s homemade spice blend, shipped directly from Bangladesh. “It’s her own mixture,” he said. “She dries, crushes and blends the spices herself before sending them to me.” Hoque explained that Bangladeshi seasonings aren’t necessarily hot; rather, the spices are light, bringing flavor and aromatics more than heat. 

The HoQ Mediterranean Bowl is a popular item from his flagship restaurant (which will no longer serve lunch). This vibrant dish features lentil falafel, seasonal vegetables, turmeric couscous and Milton Creamery quark cheese.

Flora is open 11 am to 2 pm Wednesday through Sunday.

DOME AFTER DARK Flora is open for dinner Fridays 6 – 9 pm with a limited menu for Dome After Dark, as well as a full beverage menu for purchase out of the café. The café will also serve sweet and savory snack options, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks in the garden commons 6 – 9:30 pm.  

Sunday brunch available 10 am to 2 pm.

Admission not required when you remain only within Flora Cafe and their patio.

Contact Flora at flora@dmbotanicalgarden.com or at 515.323.6288

Buy a Flora Gift Card!

photo 1: DSM Dish Michael Morain
excerpted from article by Wini Moranville
photo 2+3: Flynn Wright Claire Taets

EASTER BRUNCH APR 20. Three seatings with a brunch buffet at 9 am, 11 am and 1 pm. $40 per person ($25 for kids 12 and under; no charge for kids 2 and under). Please call Flora to reserve your spot today! 515.323.6288

WINE DINNER WED APR 30 featuring Idle Cellars. Dinner starts at 5:30 in Flora. Tickets include tax and gratuity, and guests can walk around the Botanical Garden 30 minutes prior to dinner. Hurry–limited seating available.

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH MAY 11. Three seatings with a brunch buffet at 9 am, 11 am and 1 pm. $40 per person ($25 for kids 12 and under; no charge for kids 2 and under). Please call Flora to reserve your spot today! 515.323.6288

MOTHERS’S DAY PASTRY BOXES available for pre-sale and day of at $20 each. They will be available for pickup on Mother’s Day. Please call the cafe to pre-order. 515.323.6288