The Green Olive Des Moines is a culinary gem that has steadily gained acclaim for its vibrant and diverse menu, reflecting both innovation and tradition. Nestled in the heart of Iowa’s capital, this restaurant offers an eclectic mix of flavors that cater to a wide range of palates, making it a go-to destination for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.
From fresh appetizers to hearty entrées and decadent desserts, the menu is thoughtfully crafted to showcase seasonal ingredients and global influences while maintaining a warm and inviting atmosphere.
What sets The Green Olive apart is its commitment to quality and creativity, ensuring every dish is a celebration of taste and presentation. Whether you’re craving classic comfort food or yearning to try something new and exciting, the menu presents options that are both familiar and adventurous.
This variety is complemented by an attentive staff ready to guide guests through their culinary journey, highlighting the freshest offerings and pairing recommendations. Exploring The Green Olive’s menu is more than just a meal—it’s an experience filled with bold flavors, rich textures, and heartfelt hospitality.
Starters and Small Plates
The Green Olive’s selection of starters is designed to awaken the palate with fresh, bold flavors and innovative combinations. These small plates are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a light beginning to your meal.
Each dish is carefully prepared, emphasizing seasonal ingredients and creative pairings.
From crispy calamari to vibrant salads, the starters showcase an array of textures and tastes. The use of local produce and sustainable seafood ensures that each bite is both delicious and responsible.
Whether you prefer something light and refreshing or rich and savory, the starters offer something to excite every appetite.
Popular choices include the roasted beet salad, featuring fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette, and the house-made hummus trio, which highlights different regional flavors. The menu also features several vegetarian and gluten-free options, making it inclusive for various dietary preferences.
- Roasted Beet Salad: Mixed greens, goat cheese, candied pecans, balsamic reduction
- House-Made Hummus Trio: Classic, roasted red pepper, and garlic flavors served with pita
- Crispy Calamari: Lightly breaded and served with a spicy aioli
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Filled with herbed cream cheese and spinach
“The starters at The Green Olive perfectly balance boldness and subtlety, setting the stage for a memorable dining experience.” – Local Food Critic
Soups and Salads
The soups and salads at The Green Olive offer a refreshing yet hearty option for those seeking lighter fare without sacrificing flavor. Each dish reflects a commitment to freshness and seasonal availability, ensuring that ingredients are at their peak.
The soup selection varies regularly, often featuring comforting classics alongside inventive new recipes. For example, the roasted tomato bisque is a crowd favorite, known for its creamy texture and deep, smoky flavor.
Salads are vibrant and packed with nutrient-rich ingredients, combining sweet, tangy, and savory elements.
Salads can be enjoyed on their own or enhanced with protein options such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Dressings are house-made, crafted to complement the natural flavors of the produce without overpowering them.
This attention to detail elevates the humble salad into something truly special.
Popular Soups
- Roasted Tomato Bisque: Creamy with a hint of smoked paprika
- Seasonal Vegetable Chowder: Fresh vegetables in a light broth
- Chicken and Wild Rice Soup: Hearty and comforting
Signature Salads
- Green Olive Caesar: Crisp romaine, shaved parmesan, house-made dressing
- Autumn Harvest Salad: Kale, dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds, apple cider vinaigrette
- Mediterranean Salad: Cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta, lemon-oregano dressing
| Soup Option | Calories | Gluten-Free |
| Roasted Tomato Bisque | 180 | Yes |
| Seasonal Vegetable Chowder | 220 | No |
| Chicken and Wild Rice Soup | 250 | Yes |
Entrees
The Green Olive’s entrees are the centerpiece of the menu, showcasing a blend of classic culinary techniques and modern flair. These dishes are crafted to satisfy diverse tastes, from meat lovers to vegetarians, each plate carefully balanced with complementary sides and sauces.
The offerings range from perfectly grilled steaks and seafood to creative vegetarian main courses. The chefs emphasize the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients to ensure peak flavor and quality.
Special attention is given to presentation, making each dish a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Signature dishes include the pan-seared salmon, served with a lemon-dill sauce and seasonal vegetables, and the herb-crusted rack of lamb, accompanied by garlic mashed potatoes. Vegetarian options like the roasted vegetable risotto highlight the kitchen’s ability to create satisfying meatless meals without compromising depth of flavor.
- Pan-Seared Salmon: Lemon-dill sauce, seasonal vegetables
- Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb: Garlic mashed potatoes, rosemary jus
- Roasted Vegetable Risotto: Arborio rice, seasonal vegetables, parmesan
- Grilled Ribeye Steak: Charred to perfection, served with balsamic-glazed onions
“Each entrée at The Green Olive tells a story of craftsmanship and passion, turning dining into an unforgettable event.” – Executive Chef
Sandwiches and Burgers
The sandwich and burger section offers a casual yet refined option for those looking for comfort food with a gourmet twist. These dishes are crafted using high-quality ingredients, blending traditional favorites with inventive new combinations.
From the classic Green Olive burger to the Mediterranean chicken sandwich, each item is served with hand-cut fries or a fresh side salad. The burger features a juicy beef patty topped with smoked cheddar and house-made pickles, while the chicken sandwich boasts marinated grilled chicken breast with a tangy tzatziki spread.
Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, including a chickpea and quinoa burger packed with flavor and nutrients. The emphasis on fresh bread and locally sourced produce elevates these sandwiches beyond typical fare, making them a popular choice for lunch or a laid-back dinner.
- Green Olive Burger: Angus beef, smoked cheddar, pickles, special sauce
- Mediterranean Chicken Sandwich: Grilled chicken, tzatziki, lettuce, tomato
- Chickpea Quinoa Burger: Vegan patty, avocado, vegan aioli
- Classic BLT: Bacon, lettuce, tomato, garlic mayo on toasted sourdough
| Item | Price | Vegetarian |
| Green Olive Burger | $14 | No |
| Mediterranean Chicken Sandwich | $13 | No |
| Chickpea Quinoa Burger | $12 | Yes |
| Classic BLT | $11 | No |
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
The Green Olive is dedicated to accommodating a variety of dietary preferences, with a robust selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. These options are designed to be flavorful, satisfying, and inclusive, ensuring that plant-based diners feel equally celebrated.
Creative use of vegetables, legumes, grains, and plant-based proteins defines this section of the menu. Dishes such as the grilled portobello mushroom steak and the vegan pad thai highlight the kitchen’s ability to craft complex flavors without relying on animal products.
Gluten-free and allergen-friendly choices are also integrated thoughtfully, with clear menu labeling to assist diners in making informed decisions. The emphasis on fresh herbs, spices, and seasonal produce ensures these dishes are anything but bland, reflecting The Green Olive’s overall culinary philosophy.
- Grilled Portobello Mushroom Steak: Served with quinoa pilaf and sautéed greens
- Vegan Pad Thai: Rice noodles, tofu, peanuts, and tamarind sauce
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with rice, black beans, corn, and spices
- Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry: Rich and creamy with coconut milk
“Our vegetarian and vegan dishes are crafted with the same passion and precision as all our offerings, ensuring no one misses out on great taste.” – Head Chef
Desserts
The dessert menu at The Green Olive offers a sweet conclusion to the culinary journey, featuring both classic favorites and inventive creations. Each dessert is thoughtfully prepared to provide a perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and presentation.
From rich chocolate torte to a light and airy lemon panna cotta, the dessert options cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. The kitchen often incorporates seasonal fruits and house-made components like sauces and creams, elevating these dishes beyond the ordinary.
Pairing recommendations with coffee or dessert wines are available to enhance the experience, allowing guests to indulge fully. The desserts are designed to complement the earlier courses, offering a satisfying finale that leaves a lasting impression.
- Chocolate Torte: Dense and fudgy with raspberry coulis
- Lemon Panna Cotta: Creamy and tangy with fresh berries
- Seasonal Fruit Crisp: Warm and spiced with oat topping
- Classic Tiramisu: Espresso-soaked ladyfingers with mascarpone
| Dessert | Calories | Gluten-Free |
| Chocolate Torte | 450 | Yes |
| Lemon Panna Cotta | 320 | Yes |
| Seasonal Fruit Crisp | 400 | No |
| Classic Tiramisu | 480 | No |
Beverages and Cocktails
The beverage program at The Green Olive complements the menu with a curated selection of wines, craft beers, and creative cocktails. The bar team focuses on both classic and contemporary drinks, using fresh ingredients and high-quality spirits.
Signature cocktails highlight seasonal flavors and house-made infusions, offering guests unique taste experiences. The wine list is carefully chosen to pair well with the food menu, including options from both domestic and international vineyards.
Non-alcoholic options are thoughtfully crafted as well, featuring artisanal sodas, fresh juices, and specialty coffees and teas. This diverse beverage selection ensures that each guest can find the perfect accompaniment to their meal, enhancing overall enjoyment.
- Seasonal Margarita: Fresh lime, agave, and a hint of jalapeño
- Classic Old Fashioned: Bourbon, bitters, orange zest
- House Red and White Wines: Rotating selections from local vineyards
- Non-Alcoholic Ginger Spritz: Ginger syrup, soda water, fresh lemon
“Our drinks menu is designed to surprise and delight, perfectly balancing tradition and innovation.” – Bar Manager
Conclusion
The Green Olive Des Moines presents a thoughtfully crafted menu that blends local tradition with global inspiration, appealing to a wide spectrum of tastes and dietary preferences. Each section of the menu is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to quality, creativity, and exceptional dining experiences.
From starters bursting with fresh flavors to hearty entrees and indulgent desserts, the offerings are as diverse as they are delicious.
Attention to detail is evident not only in the ingredients and preparation methods but also in the presentation and service, ensuring every meal is memorable. The inclusion of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options highlights a commitment to inclusivity and guest satisfaction.
Complemented by a carefully curated beverage list, The Green Olive ensures that every aspect of the dining experience is harmonious and enjoyable.
Whether you are a local resident or visiting Des Moines, The Green Olive’s menu invites you to embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates both comfort and innovation. It’s a place where bold flavors meet refined techniques, and where every dish tells a story of passion, craftsmanship, and community.
