Restaurants Near Drake University

Des Moines Drake University
Many restaurants can capitalize on the fact that they are next door to a college campus. Photo courtesy of Flickr

Drake University is a small private university located in Des Moines Iowa. Home to more than 100 academic programs, graduate programs and a law school, many flock to Drake. The Bulldogs also participate in NCAA Division 1 sports and host The Drake Relays, one of the top track and field events in the United States. The surrounding area and being located in the capital of Iowa provides many opportunities for students whether that’s with food, entertainment or jobs. Below are some of the restaurants located near Drake and in the local neighborhood.

  1. Lucky Horse

A popular burger joint, this all-American restaurant offers classics like the bacon cheddar cheeseburger, boneless wings and buffalo chicken sandwich. There are also more unique options including a truffle pear flatbread, fried egg and chickpea salad and salmon burger. If you favor meatless options don’t fret as Lucky Horse has numerous options like the black bean burger or curried chickpea burger. You can wash down all of their delicious food with their draft beers or if that isn’t to your liking, there is a whole menu for drinks. Lastly, if you have room in your stomach you can finish your meal with their New York Cheesecake.

Address: 2331 University Ave. Des Moines, IA 50311

  1. Gursha Ethiopian Grill

For those who are wanting to taste flavors farther from home, look no further than Gursha Ethiopian Grill. This family-owned restaurant offers a fast-casual atmosphere and traditional Ethiopian dishes. No meal at Gursha is complete without injera, a spongy sourdough flatbread that is a staple in Ethiopian cuisine. Customers can also order rice with their food, if that is their preference. This restaurant is also a great place to visit if you are a vegetarian as there are many food options available. Alicha, a dish consisting of cabbage, potatoes and carrots cooked together with onions, tomatoes and spices is a great meatless option. For those who want meat, beef tibs and doro wot are popular options. Typical soft drinks like Sprite and Coke are available, but customers can also order a fresh mango smoothie.

Address: 2316 University Ave. IA 50311

  1. Lzaza’s Indo-Pak Cuisine

Lzaza’s Indo-Pak Cuisine offers traditional Indian and Pakistani dishes from classics like chicken tikka masala to goat biryani to butter chicken. Indo-Pak cuisine also offers a variety of vegetarian options like aloo gobi, channa masala and numerous dishes with paneer. Mainstays like naan and roti and samosas are also available to order. Lzaza has a lunch buffet from Tuesday to Sunday at 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. For an inexpensive, authentic meal and a quick walk from Drake University, Lzaza is a can’t miss restaurant.

Address: 1409 23rd Street Des Moines, IA 50311 

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