Centro - Des Moines

Centro offers a large (americanized) Italian menu in a more date-night/fine dining establishment. I would say it is like an upscale version of Olive Garden as f... read more Centro offers a large (americanized) Italian menu in a more date-night/fine dining establishment. I would say it is like an upscale version of Olive Garden as far as options and flavors go. There’s definitely some more high end food options if youare going for beef or fish, but their pasta and pizzas are priced pretty fairly. I like that there is an option for everyoneincluding some vegan specific options. I feel this is a place you can take your pickiest friend and they will find something. Iwill say that even though I enjoyed my meal, it wasn’t anything I felt was unique or better than something I would get atanother Italian restaurant. I felt my food was very oily and my salad was pretty overdressed so I didn’t leavefeeling…wonderful. I did also ask for a half order of my food and was brought the full order. I did think the portion size wasmassive for a half and didn’t realize until we got the bill I was charged for the full so that was a little disappointing. Ifyou’re looking to impress out of town guests I would say skip. But if you’re meeting up with some friends and want to get inon their awesome half price pizza deals on Monday and insane portions, I would say go. Just note this place fills up FAST sobook a reservation if you have a larger party or really don’t want to wait.

This was our first experience at Centro, and we absolutely loved it. I began with a meeting and some appetizers during happy hour. Later, I joined another group... read more This was our first experience at Centro, and we absolutely loved it. I began with a meeting and some appetizers during happy hour. Later, I joined another group for dinner. We delighted in the half-priced pizzas and a large salad. Both the pizzas and salad were incredibly fresh and tasty. We can't wait to return and sample the pasta dishes!

The portions were generous, the service was excellent, and the atmosphere was inviting. While the flavors were enjoyable, nothing I tried stood out as particula... read more The portions were generous, the service was excellent, and the atmosphere was inviting. While the flavors were enjoyable, nothing I tried stood out as particularly memorable. We ordered a range of dishes to share with our large group. I especially liked my medallions and mashed potatoes.

Second time eating here. One of my favorite places in Des Moines. Spicy rigatoni is excellent! Steak and pizza is wonderful too. A must go!! read more Second time eating here. One of my favorite places in Des Moines. Spicy rigatoni is excellent! Steak and pizza is wonderful too. A must go!!

I often bring groups here for work outings, and I always have a wonderful experience. The servers are friendly and prepared with excellent recommendations for m... read more I often bring groups here for work outings, and I always have a wonderful experience. The servers are friendly and prepared with excellent recommendations for my clients when they inquire. The team at Centro is knowledgeable and gladly accommodates any requests from my clients. I also appreciate how quickly the food is served. Centro has the best pork chop I've ever tasted—quite a feat for Iowa!