Des Moines Going Out: Fair eats, Dutch Bros, and lobster

The fair is in full swing, Iowa finally got a Dutch Bros, and a Maine lobster truck is rolling into town this weekend. Here's what's worth leaving the house for around Des Moines this week.

The Iowa State Fair is on, through Sunday

It's the eating event of the year, and it runs through Sunday, Aug 23. Rather than repeat every fair-food listicle going around, here are our own guides: the complete 2026 fair guide (dates, tickets, tips), what's new to eat this year, the Grandstand concert lineup, and where to park and how to skip the traffic. Go hungry, wear good shoes, and get there early.

Iowa's first Dutch Bros is open

The Oregon drive-thru coffee chain with the cult following finally crossed into Iowa. The state's first location is a double-lane drive-thru at 4800 SE 14th St on the south side, open from 5 a.m., with the stickers, the "broistas," and the blended Rebel energy drinks people line up for. Expect a wait while the novelty is fresh. Details and hours at Dutch Bros.

A Maine lobster truck rolls in Saturday

Cousins Maine Lobster, the food truck that got its start on Shark Tank, is bringing lobster rolls to the metro. The grand opening is Saturday, Aug 22, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. in Altoona (3610 8th St SW), and after that the truck will roam to breweries, events, and neighborhoods around Des Moines. Come for the classic Maine and Connecticut lobster rolls, and keep an eye on their schedule for where it parks next.

Craving a slice instead?

There's a fresh Des Moines pizza roundup making the rounds this week. If you want the local version, here's our best pizza in Des Moines guide, from Fong's crab rangoon pie to Detroit squares in Beaverdale and late-night slices on Ingersoll.

That's the short version. Every week we round up where to eat, drink, and go out in Des Moines and send it in one email. Get it here, no noise.