Gilroy's Kitchen + Pub + Patio
Gilroy's Kitchen + Pub + Patio has established itself as one of the most versatile dining spots in West Des Moines. Equal parts restaurant, bar, and outdoor gathering place, Gilroy's appeals to a wide range of diners with its creative menu, extensive drink list, and one of the best patio setups in the metro area.
The concept behind Gilroy's is straightforward: take familiar pub food and elevate it with better ingredients, more creative preparation, and presentation that shows the kitchen actually cares about what lands on your plate. The result is a restaurant that feels approachable and casual while delivering food that consistently exceeds expectations.
The Menu
The menu at Gilroy's covers a lot of ground without losing focus. Their burger selection is one of the strongest in the area, featuring thick, hand-formed patties topped with creative combinations that change seasonally. Past favorites have included smoked gouda with caramelized onions and a spicy jalapeño bacon version that developed a dedicated following.
Beyond burgers, Gilroy's offers flatbreads that serve as a lighter alternative, loaded nachos and shareables that work perfectly for groups, and entree salads substantial enough to count as a full meal. Their fish tacos and chicken sandwich are lunch staples that deliver solid flavor without breaking the bank. The kitchen takes pride in sourcing quality ingredients and preparing everything in-house, which shows in the finished product.
The Patio Experience
The patio at Gilroy's is a genuine draw, not an afterthought. The outdoor space is large enough to accommodate dozens of diners while still feeling intimate at individual tables. During the warmer months — roughly April through October in Iowa — the patio becomes the preferred dining area for most guests.
The setup includes a mix of table sizes, making it suitable for couples, families, and larger groups alike. String lights and landscaping create a pleasant ambiance during evening hours, while midday lunches benefit from open air and natural light. On pleasant days, there is simply no better place to eat lunch in West Des Moines than Gilroy's patio.
Drinks and Cocktails
Gilroy's takes its drink program seriously. The bar features a well-curated selection of craft beers on tap, including local Iowa brews and rotating seasonal options. Their cocktail menu is equally thoughtful, with signature drinks that use fresh ingredients and house-made syrups.
For lunch, their non-alcoholic options are also worth mentioning. Fresh lemonades and craft sodas provide refreshing alternatives that complement the food menu nicely. The bartenders are knowledgeable and happy to make recommendations if you are unsure what to order.
Why Gilroy's Stands Out
Gilroy's succeeds because it does not try to be something it is not. It is a pub with really good food, great drinks, and an outstanding patio. That formula works because the execution is consistently strong across all three elements. The kitchen delivers, the bar pours well, and the outdoor space is genuinely enjoyable.
For a lunch that feels like a mini escape from the workday, Gilroy's is hard to beat. The combination of quality food, a relaxed atmosphere, and the option to dine al fresco makes it a go-to destination for anyone working or living in the West Des Moines area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gilroy's serves elevated American pub fare with creative twists. The menu includes gourmet burgers, flatbreads, tacos, hearty salads, and signature entrees. Their dishes go well beyond standard bar food, with attention to fresh ingredients and thoughtful flavor combinations.
The kitchen also features seasonal specials that rotate regularly, keeping the menu interesting for repeat visitors. Their appetizer selection is particularly strong for sharing.
Yes, Gilroy's is well known for its expansive patio area, which is one of the largest outdoor dining spaces in West Des Moines. The patio is equipped with comfortable seating and offers a relaxed, open-air dining experience during warmer months.
During spring and summer, the patio tends to fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving early or making a reservation for outdoor seating is recommended if you want to guarantee a patio table.
Gilroy's is an excellent choice for group dining. The restaurant has flexible seating arrangements that can accommodate parties of various sizes, and the shareable appetizer menu makes it easy to order for a table.
The atmosphere is lively without being overwhelmingly loud, which makes conversation comfortable. For larger groups or special occasions, contacting the restaurant ahead of time to arrange seating is a good idea.
Gilroy's typically offers weekday lunch specials that provide excellent value. These specials often include a main dish with a side or drink at a reduced price compared to the regular menu.
The specific offerings vary by day and season, so checking their latest menu or calling ahead is the best way to see what is available. Their lunch portions are well-sized for a midday meal without being overwhelming.
The atmosphere at Gilroy's strikes a balance between upscale and casual. The interior features modern decor with warm lighting, comfortable booths, and a well-stocked bar area. It feels polished enough for a business lunch but relaxed enough for a casual outing with friends.
The energy picks up during weekend evenings, but during weekday lunch hours the pace is calm and conducive to conversation. The combination of good food, good drinks, and a welcoming environment is what keeps locals coming back.