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A new brewery has opened in Des Moines on 17^th Street. Big Grove Brewery, a combination of brewery, restaurant, and bar, is the third location of its kind to open. The Des Moines location is like the Iowa City and Solon locations, but the owners hope to bring in people from all occupations and backgrounds through beer releases and various events. Some events are in collaboration with local organizations such as the Animal Rescue League of Des Moines. “Yappy Hour,” was a recent free event for customers to bring along their dogs and pick up a gift from the ARL. They also host wedding rehearsal dinners, receptions, and even ceremonies in their large patio space.

“We are very much turning into a non-traditional wedding venue. Typically, people will go elope and then they will come back and have a party here,” said Addison Mittelstaedt, the event director at the new Des Moines location.

Big Grove has a 12,000 sq ft structure and an enthusiastic staff that creates a warm and friendly atmosphere for a wide range of clientele. Mittelstaedt, the event director for Big Grove in Des Moines has worked for the company for 4 years. In addition to events such as “Yappy Hour,” Addison helps with private events, philanthropy and community events, and taproom activities such as beer releases, large taproom events, and live music. She recently has been recognized by the Iowa Restaurant Association as one of the “40 Women to Watch in Hospitality.” Jessica Dunker, President, and CEO of the Iowa Restaurant Association said, “these honorees are innovators, leaders, mentors, and trendsetters in our industry.” 

Mittelstaedt is just one of the friendly staff that helps set the vibe at Big Grove to be inviting and warm to its customers. The company is growing and is already planning to open a fourth location in Cedar Rapids built from the ground up. It will be different from the other locations in the way that all the other locations were built from existing structures. The Cedar Rapids location will primarily be a lager house. “They lay in vertical tanks, and it takes about 6-8 weeks for them to brew. It is just a different style of beer,” said Mittelstaedt.

Big Grove has a large outdoor patio with ample seating and a play lawn for customers to relax and enjoy their time. It is also great for families with younger kids, in the warmer months it allows for kids to run and play while the adults can order food and drink and play cornhole. Big Grove has a fun and laid-back atmosphere. The restaurant industry can sometimes be uninviting or unfriendly, but customers at Big Grove say that everyone is smiling and happy. Amy Marckres, a part-time manager, bartender, and events coordinator has worked for Big Grove for over 5 years. When asked what makes Big Grove stand out from other breweries and restaurants around Des Moines, she expressed that she loves the relationship they have with the community and the culture of the restaurant.

Big Grove Brewery’s menu has a variety of elevated pub-style dishes. They describe their menu as street food inspired by small plates and sandwiches. They also have a special diet and vegetarian options. Some of the popular things to order are the Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich, Tuna Poke Bowl, or BBQ Pulled Pork. They also have an award-winning beer menu with their expanding list of craft beer, lagers, and ales.

Big Grove Brewery’s new location in Des Moines is a great spot for customers of any age who are looking for a casual dinner or drinks. Since it sits on heavily traveled Ingersoll Ave, it will attract lots of residents of the area and those just passing through. With its plans for collaborating on events with different organizations around the metro, Big Grove Brewery will be a terrific addition to Des Moines.