Alba - Des Moines

The food was incredible, just like our waitress said it would be. read more The food was incredible, just like our waitress said it would be.

Service was fantastic; went for a work dinner I feel food menu could include more steak options. Dessert was the best part! read more Service was fantastic; went for a work dinner I feel food menu could include more steak options. Dessert was the best part!

We came largely due to the review scores and comments. However, I have to say that I left a bit disappointed. Food: 3-star Service: 4-star Atmosphere: 4-star Fo... read more We came largely due to the review scores and comments. However, I have to say that I left a bit disappointed. Food: 3-star Service: 4-star Atmosphere: 4-star For service and atmosphere, nothing wrong and the host and waitress are super nice. But also nothing stands out from the service or the restaurant atmosphere that would deserve a 5-star. The hanging door decor is an interesting unusual one. But it can also be kinda creepy (if you watch enough horror films... . Now on Food, they do make their own noodles (in house , which is really nice and their noodles do taste fresh. But the reason for 3-star is that the food tastes fairly *bland*. On one hand, I appreciate that they don't over-season or over-butter their food to make them heavy and unhealthy; but on the other hand, the taste of their dishes (from appetizers to main courses is just very ... subtle. BTW, the two dishes we ordered are based on their recommendation (their specialty . As such, I cannot offer anything more than 3 stars, based on the food. If you've never been here, it might be worth a try; but I'm not sure I'll be back in the future though.

Delicious food and excellent service read more Delicious food and excellent service

We emailed in March to reserve the Chef's Table, and were delighted that they offered a 7-course tasting option. When we arrived though, no reservation was in.... read more We emailed in March to reserve the Chef's Table, and were delighted that they offered a 7-course tasting option. When we arrived though, no reservation was in. We did get the Chef's Table, but it was a disappointment that the tasting menu/reservation weren't honored. With that said a loss of $100-200 in revenue on their part. The service was great. The waitress/hostess crew took care of us, and didn't rush anything. They also were able to split a few things (like delightful Asparagus soup) for my wife and I. The food was fine. Highlights are the pastas, while the risotto and truffle fries were afterthoughts. The lava cake had no lava, and while tasty was about 3/4 thick. The Chef's table is fun. You see the action and the impeccable communication in that kitchen at work. The Chefs didn't ignore us, but didn't acknowledge us. I will say two different customers walked over and complimented them on the food. We thanked them as we were leaving as well (after they cleared a few tickets). In summary the food is good pushing great. The service is great. But I started slightly sour from the reservation/7-course start. I would happily return, but it would be hard if the Chef's Table wasn't an option.