Salt Of The Hearth - Des Moines

We were not greeted when we arrived and had to find a bartender to get menus after sitting on the terrace. It took about 15 minutes to see a server. The food was quite good and there were some unique options, even though the dinner menu was somewhat limited. The atmosphere on the terrace was beautiful, with lovely views. However, the service was lacking. I wouldn’t recommend this place and won’t be returning.

The prix fixe menu that was advertised online differed significantly from what was actually offered, leaving out several items that had initially caught my interest. For my appetizer, I received a forgettable pineapple wrapped in ham. This was followed by a Korean cucumber salad, which was misleadingly described. It was mostly arugula, sprinkled with a few pickled cucumbers, and had an overpoweringly sharp flavor. I had expected a well-seasoned dish, but it fell short and was nothing like the Asian cucumber salads I’ve enjoyed elsewhere. Next came the glazed pork chops, which were served alongside perfectly smooth potato purée. Unfortunately, the chops were overcooked and tough, forcing me to send them back for a second attempt. The second version was much improved, but the glaze was still too sweet, and the red potato purée had an odd texture and remnants of skin, lacking the silky consistency I anticipated. Finally, we arrived at dessert—a panna cotta—which was genuinely delightful! Its presentation was lovely, adorned with neatly arranged fruit over a tropical gel and a sprinkle of rock candy to fit the salt theme. The creamy texture was flawless, infused with real vanilla beans. While the staff was pleasant and attentive, I felt they might better serve a different type of clientele than what the prix fixe menu seemed to target.

The seating is behind curtains that isolate you from the rest of the venue, which creates a very strange atmosphere. On a Friday night around 7 PM, there was only one other table of four in the restaurant. There were only four dinner choices available, and for $40.00 you receive an appetizer, salad, main dish, and dessert. I wasn't impressed and won't be returning.

This place cannot decide what he wants to be. salt strives to be a gastropub with a prix fixed menu, but it splits a room with a burger bar. the bar is as expected, noisy and there is no way to escape the outside or the view. my empanada was overcrowded and illegitimate. server apologized, but no adjustment to the bill or even a offer to replace.

Solid meal and highly recommend the wine pairings as suggested. Attentive service and a good blend of food choices in their limited menu.