Hoq - Des Moines

Our group had salmon, lamb and steak. All were pleased with their meals and portions. The burnt carrot appetizer was nice. The wait staff was very good prompt,... read more Our group had salmon, lamb and steak. All were pleased with their meals and portions. The burnt carrot appetizer was nice. The wait staff was very good prompt, fun and helpful.

My experience at this restaurant was extremely disappointing. We visited during restaurant week in 2023. I ordered the fried green tomato for my first course, f... read more My experience at this restaurant was extremely disappointing. We visited during restaurant week in 2023. I ordered the fried green tomato for my first course, followed by Tempura-battered Gulf shrimp with Tomato Risotto. My husband opted for the Bangladeshi Chicken as his first course and the braised local sirloin with summer vegetables for his main course. Unfortunately, my fried green tomato was lukewarm and the cheese on top was ice cold, resulting in a combination that did not work well together. The cheese was not spreadable and lacked flavor. The shrimp, which was supposed to be tempura, turned out to be blackened and we only received three medium-sized shrimp. The seasoning overpowered the shrimp, and the risotto was undercooked - not al dente, just simply undercooked. As for my husband's meal, the meat was tough and lacked flavor. He did find the vegetables to be tasty, though. The meat portion was disappointingly small, only 3-4 ounces. For dessert, we shared the house-made churros with cinnamon ice cream. Unfortunately, the churros were doughy in the center and the ice cream was plain vanilla. I have had better churros at a food truck. The service was good, but overall, we will not be returning. It is a shame that during restaurant week, the restaurant did not put their best foot forward to impress potential repeat customers. Our experience left us feeling underwhelmed.

We are new to the DSM area and decided to visit HoQ for a quiet Tuesday night dinner for my wife's birthday. We had a really nice experience. Understandably for... read more We are new to the DSM area and decided to visit HoQ for a quiet Tuesday night dinner for my wife's birthday. We had a really nice experience. Understandably for early on a weeknight, the restaurant was pretty empty. The staff greeted us, led us to a window seat, and we enjoyed prompt and friendly service the entire time. The food was delightful. We were excited to try out a farm-to-table place in support of local farmers and produce and products from central Iowa. We enjoyed the masa empanadas and burnt carrots for our starters, and for our main dishes ordered the lamb shank and braised short rib entrees. We finished off the dinner with the seasonal fruit crisp (rhubarb). Everything was cooked excellently and was very tasty. We plan to visit again in the future.

Upon entering HoQ in Des Moines, Iowa, you can't help but wonder how such a place exists in this location. The atmosphere is fantastic, perfect for conversation... read more Upon entering HoQ in Des Moines, Iowa, you can't help but wonder how such a place exists in this location. The atmosphere is fantastic, perfect for conversation even on a busy Saturday night. The food is a standout - with creative and complex flavors presented beautifully. The steak and lamb shank were particularly impressive, as was the Mediterranean Bowl. The appetizers were also excellent, and the Nan served with the dishes was the freshest and lightest we've ever had. The pricing was very reasonable for the quality of the food, from the wine to the entrees. What sets HoQ apart is their commitment to using farm-fresh ingredients in every dish, with both the server and the owner knowledgeable about their sources. This attention to detail reflects their passion and commitment to providing a top-notch dining experience. HoQ is a special place, especially given its location. Whether dining as a couple or in a small group, you can expect an excellent evening at HoQ.

I arrived at the restaurant as soon as it opened and received fast service from the extremely friendly staff. I decided to try a glass of Spanish wine called Xa... read more I arrived at the restaurant as soon as it opened and received fast service from the extremely friendly staff. I decided to try a glass of Spanish wine called Xarmant Txakoli, which was delicious with a dry yet sweet aftertaste. Along with my wine, I was served a complimentary beet with homemade pita bread that was absolutely outstanding. I also enjoyed a daily soup of butternut squash bisque with herb oil, which was fresh and flavorful. For my main course, I had Naanza, a type of pita bread topped with Milton Creamery quark cheese, local seasoned vegetables, and herb oil. The squash paired perfectly with the cheese and herb oil, creating a heavenly combination. The atmosphere of the restaurant was quiet and peaceful, making it an overall fantastic dining experience.