This Iowa Restaurant Makes a Bowl of Soup You’ll Crave All Winter

Iowa in the winter is a mixed bag of icy wonders and frosty endurance tests. It’s the time of year when we brave the elements for a chance to twirl on frozen ponds or shout ourselves hoarse at a Hawkeyes basketball game. But let’s be honest: no matter how much fun you’re having, eventually, you need a warm reprieve.

That’s where soup comes in—a dish so inherently comforting it might as well come with its own wool sweater. And if you’re on a quest for the most soul-soothing bowl in the state, you’ll want to set your sights on a little slice of culinary heaven in Des Moines.

Barn Town Brewing is the kind of place that feels like home, if home happens to have award-winning beer, a killer menu, and an unmistakable cool factor. The vibe is equal parts rustic and modern, with warm wood beams, exposed brick, and just enough twinkle lighting to remind you that life is better with a little glow. This west Des Moines brewery has a little bit of a farm vibe that really works for it. The staff here doesn’t just take your order—they make you feel like you’ve just walked into a reunion of your favorite people. The crowd is a mix of locals, beer aficionados, and those who simply know a great spot when they see one.

But let’s get to the main event at Barn Town: their beer cheddar soup. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill comfort food; rather, it’s a love letter to cold weather in edible form. The creamy base is infused with Barn Town’s own craft beer, giving it a rich, malty depth that’s hard to resist. It’s topped with crispy bacon and fresh green onions, for a combination of flavors so satisfying, you’ll find yourself planning your next visit before you’ve even finished the bowl.

This Iowa brewery also offers a rotating “soup of the moment,” ensuring there’s always a little mystery to keep things exciting. It’s the culinary equivalent of a surprise party—except it always involves soup, which makes it infinitely better. Be sure to ask the staff what’s cooking; their enthusiasm for the menu is infectious.

Of course, the rest of Barn Town Brewing's offerings deserve a mention. Start with an appetizer like the crab rangoon flatbread—a playful twist that pairs sweet and savory in all the right ways. Or, if you believe in the magic of simplicity, go for Carla’s Garlic Cream Cheese Dip with House Chips. For something a bit greener, the Hungry Hungry Hipster salad delivers a delightful mix of arugula, roasted Brussels sprouts, grapes, bacon, almonds, and Parmesan, all dressed with a honey vinaigrette that’ll make you forget it’s technically healthy.

Barn Town’s main dishes are as bold as they are flavorful. The Barn Fire Burger is a standout, with a chorizo patty, a regular burger patty, jalapeño relish, pickled onions, queso fresco, and a chipotle aioli that packs just the right amount of heat. Or try the Pollo Diablo Wrap, where spicy giardiniera peppers meet black bean and corn relish, cheddar, and grilled chicken in a warm tortilla hug.

No trip to Barn Town Brewing would be complete without diving into their beer selection. Whether you prefer a hazy IPA like Groovy Ruby, the classic ease of Iowa Gold, or the bold flavors of the gluten-free Caramel Apple Sour, there’s a brew for every palate. With so much variety, it’s easy to see why this spot is a favorite for beer lovers—and why their beer cheddar soup is such a knockout!

So, bundle up and make your way to Barn Town Brewing in West Des Moines for a bowl of soup that could warm even the chilliest of Iowan hearts. While you’re in the area, why not explore the fascinating exhibits at the Science Center of Iowa or another nearby gem? Better yet, make it a full-on winter retreat with a cozy stay at a local vacation rental.

Your taste buds—and your sense of adventure—will thank you. Let your brain thank you as well by using Only In Your State's Travel Planner to organize your next Iowa adventure.