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Bar & grill in Des Moines, Iowa
What should I order at University Library Cafe?
What to order
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Burgers
Frequently praised for being among the best in Des Moines, with comments about great seasoning, perfect cooking, and standout flavor.
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Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich
Specifically singled out as delicious and strongly recommended by a reviewer who said it was 'for sure' worth ordering.
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Fries
Often mentioned alongside the burgers, with reviewers praising them as crispy, crunchy, and possibly the best in Des Moines.
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4
Breakfast Nachos
Called out as a great brunch choice and noted as part of the restaurant’s famous nacho offerings.
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5
Peanut Butter Bacon Burger
Named as a favorite by a regular, who said it is one of their go-to dishes and that the food is always excellent.
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6
Cheeseburger Nachos
Recommended by a server suggestion and praised for having a huge amount of toppings and sturdy chips.
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7
French Toast
Mentioned as very good in a positive breakfast review.
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8
Biscuits And Gravy
Recommended as part of a strong breakfast meal, with the gravy especially praised for its peppery flavor.
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9
Chicken Fried Steak
Highlighted in a breakfast review for being excellent, especially with the peppery gravy.
Details
Hours
| Monday | 10 AM to 11 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10 AM to 11 PM |
| Wednesday | 10 AM to 11 PM |
| Thursday | 10 AM to 12 AM |
| Friday | 10 AM to 12 AM |
| Saturday | 8 AM to 12 AM |
| Sunday | 8 AM to 11 PM |
About University Library Cafe
Old-school bar with classic pub grub & draft beers, including local craft brews.
Amenities
Service options
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Serves local specialty
- Sports
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Food
- Food at bar
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
Frequently asked
What is University Library Cafe known for?
It is best known for its nachos, especially the breakfast nachos and cheeseburger nachos, which reviewers repeatedly call a standout. People also praise the burgers, including the peanut butter bacon burger, for being well seasoned and filling, and the bar selection for pairing well with the food.
What dishes are most recommended at University Library Cafe?
The most recommended items are the nachos, burgers, French toast, biscuits and gravy, and the chicken fried steak. Reviewers also single out the chicken bacon ranch sandwich, BLT, and fries, with several noting the burgers and fries as some of the best in Des Moines.
What is the atmosphere like at University Library Cafe?
The vibe is a small, cozy, casual dive bar with historic character, eclectic decor, and a lively local crowd. Reviewers mention a mix of locals and Drake University students, so it works well for solo diners, casual groups, and people wanting a neighborhood bar feel with sports and drinks.
Is University Library Cafe good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is $10 to $20, and reviewers generally treat it as a good value for the portion size and quality. Comments about thick, sturdy nachos, generous toppings, and strong burgers suggest you get a lot of food for the price.
When is the best time to visit University Library Cafe?
Because it is a small space that fills up quickly, reviewers suggest arriving early if you want a table, especially for brunch or busy evening hours. If you go later, expect a possible wait, but many say the food and drinks make it worth it.
Is parking available at University Library Cafe?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Paid street parking, Usually somewhat difficult to find a space is available.
