What we’re about
Are you new to the area? Did you recently return but your friends no longer live here? Have you just been too busy with work to make friends?
This group is for anyone -- single, married, divorced, attached -- anyone who would like to meet other people in the area, make friends, and do some activities. This is not a singles group, though single people are welcome. It's not a hookup group. Just people who would like the opportunity to meet and make friends and perhaps do fun activities.
I envision activities as simple as going out to different restaurant, patios, kayaking somewhere locally, exploring museums, enjoying a picnic lunch somewhere, going to museums, taking a tour of local wineries, etc. The options are limitless and will give us a chance to explore Des Moines as well.
Let's explore Des Moines and its surrounding areas, meet interesting people and have a little fun!
There are some immuno-compromised members and others who spend time with those who are vulnerable, children, or unable to receive the vaccine. With respect for them and the CDC recommendations, you must be fully vaccinated to participate in these meetups. Proof of vaccination for each attendee must be provided at the meetup.
Please note: there is a free 60 day trial period; after that there is $10 annual dues to help offset the costs of using the Meetup site. Using the site is not cheap, but it is useful and allows everyone to participate and communicate with each other.
Who's ready to make new friends?
Upcoming events
4
Judges New Year's Eve Dinner
Judges DSM, 208 3rd Street, Des Moines, IA, USJudges in Des Moines - Judges New Years Eve Dinner - Des Moines, IA | Toast Tables
This event is a prix fixe dinner at $110 per person. We are looking at the 6 p.m. reservation. Please see the link above for the menu. The restaurant requires payment ahead to reserve, so you will need to arrange payment to me by venmo, cash or check and I will schedule the reservation for whoever has completed payment. The quicker we do this, the better our odds of getting the time we prefer, which is a little earlier. The 6:00 p.m. start leaves everyone time to enjoy the meal, get home or get to any later events they want to attend. Note: refunds are available until 48 hrs prior to the event, which would require notifying the restaurant no later than December 29, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.
Let's ring in the new year together! The restaurant has gotten great reviews from group members and food reviewers.3 attendees
Istanbul Grill Cafe and Bakery
Istanbul Grill Cafe & Bakery, 3281 100th St., Urbandale, IA, USIstanbul Grill Cafe & Bakery – Turkish Restaurant
This is a newer Turkish/Mediterranean restaurant in what used to be Stella's Cafe location.
Food lover's review:
Istanbul Grill Cafe & Bakery opened today and wow!
Exceeded our expectations in taste and service! The space is beautiful, has plenty of seating with great lighting. Great turn out for day 1!
The owner was very friendly and checked in often!
We had Turkish coffee, Lamb Gyro, chicken tenders which were nice and crispy, a nice and tender beef dish that I forgot the name of, Baklava and even took some Firin Sutlac home. They kept bringing out delicious, warm bread with the Ezme and Tzatziki sauce and I filled up on that that I had to take most of my food home for later!
Parking is free in their lot. They do not have a liquor license yet, but are working on it. Until then parties may bring their own bottles in if they wish and there is no corkage fee.8 attendees
Alba
524 E 6th St, Des Moines, IA, USAlba Restaurant (albadsm.com)
## Alba is an upscale American restaurant & bar featuring reclaimed ceiling doors for a perfect dining experience.
Alba - whose name was inspired by the white oak trees in front of the building and featured on the dining room mural - opened its doors in February 2008.
Located in the Historic East Village of Des Moines, Alba is recognized for its contemporary American cuisine, as well as its 1950's Art Moderne exterior and its unconventional interior. Besides the colorful artwork that adorns the walls, one of the most noted features of restaurant is the colorful mix of wood-panel doors that suspend from the ceiling.
In addition to the dining room and seasonal patio, Alba also offers a full-service wine and cocktail bar. The space's long-winding bar and high-top tables are a great way to experience Alba's cuisine in a more casual environment. There is a happy hour at the bar only from 4-6 p.m. Happy Hour does not apply to the seating (only at the bar), so if you wish to participate in happy hour come early and head to the bar. We'll meet you at the table by 5:30.
Alba was nominated in 2010 and 2016 for a James Beard Restaurant Award and was voted "Best Restaurant" by the Des Moines Register in 2010 and 2011. Alba has also appeared in the New York Times, Chicago Sun Times, Minneapolis Star Tribune, Midwest Living magazine, and Jet Set Delta Sky magazine.
NOTE: they say have lots of gluten or lactose free options.4 attendees
Past events
140
