Top foodies spots in Clive, Iowa
Of course! Grab your napkin and prepare your palate, my fellow food enthusiasts, because we're about to embark on a delectable tour of Clive, Iowa—a suburb that punches so far above its weight in the culinary ring, you'll forget you're not in a major metropolitan food hub. This isn't just a list of places to eat; this is a guided journey through aromas, flavors, and experiences that define this vibrant community. Let's pull up a chair and dive in.
### **A Culinary Crossroads: An Introduction to Clive's Dining Scene**
Nestled just west of Des Moines, Clive is more than just a dot on the map; it's a destination for those who believe a great meal is the cornerstone of a good life. Here, family recipes passed down through generations share the block with innovative concepts pushing the boundaries of flavor. The atmosphere ranges from the cozy, red-checkered-tablecloth comfort of classic Italian joints to the sleek, modern lounges where mixology is an art form. This guide will take you through ten of its standout establishments, offering a curated taste of what makes each one unique. Consider me your personal culinary scout, here to whisper in your ear about what's truly unmissable.
---
### **1. Billy Vee’s Italian Restaurant: A Hug from Nonna**
**Location:** 9968 Swanson Blvd, Clive, Iowa, 50325
Step through the door of Billy Vee’s and you are immediately wrapped in the warm, garlicky embrace of a true neighborhood Italian kitchen. The air is thick with the scent of simmering marinara and baking bread. It’s a place of comfortable booths, friendly chatter, and portions that make you feel like family. This isn't fussy, modern Italian; this is the classics, done right, with heart and soul.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
Start your feast with the **Fried Calamari**. It’s perfectly tender, lightly battered, and served with a zesty marinara for dipping. For your main event, you face a delightful dilemma. The **Chicken or Veal Parmesan** is a titan of the menu—a generously portioned cutlet, breaded and fried to a golden crisp, smothered in a robust, tangy tomato sauce and a blanket of melted, bubbling mozzarella. It’s a symphony of texture and comfort.
However, if you’re feeling decadent, the **Fettuccine Alfredo** is a masterclass in simplicity. The sauce is creamy, cheesy, and clings to every strand of house-made pasta without being overly heavy. Pair it with a glass of Chianti, and you've achieved pasta nirvana. Save room for the **Tiramisu**—it’s light, coffee-kissed, and the perfect final note.
---
### **2. Mi Mexico Restaurant: A Fiesta for the Senses**
**Location:** 11407 Forest Ave, Clive, Iowa, 50325
The moment you walk into Mi Mexico, the vibrant colors, the sound of Spanish music, and the irresistible aroma of sizzling fajitas welcome you like a celebration. This is a family-run establishment where the hospitality is as warm as the freshly made tortillas. It’s a place for lively gatherings, frosty margaritas, and food that bursts with authentic, south-of-the-border flavor.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
You cannot go wrong with their **House Margarita** on the rocks—it’s the quintessential companion to the meal. To start, the **Queso Fundido** with chorizo is a must. This glorious, bubbling skillet of melted cheese and spicy sausage arrives with soft tortillas for you to assemble your own perfect, gooey bite.
For the main course, venture beyond the standard tacos and burritos (though they are excellent) to the **Carnitas**. The pork is slow-braised until it’s impossibly tender on the inside with delightfully crispy edges. Served with rice, beans, fresh guacamole, and salsa, it’s a profound and satisfying dish. Alternatively, the **Molcajete** is a show-stopper—a volcanic stone bowl filled with a bubbling concoction of grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, and nopales, all bathing in a rich, spicy salsa. It’s an experience as much as a meal.
---
### **3. Mandarin Grill & Sushi Bar: The Best of Both Worlds**
**Location:** 1250 Northwest 128th Street # 100, Clive, Iowa, 50325
Why choose when you can have it all? Mandarin Grill is a culinary diplomat, expertly bridging the rich, savory flavors of Chinese cuisine with the precise, elegant art of Japanese sushi. The dining room is spacious and modern, with a serene sushi bar where you can watch the masters at work. It’s the ideal spot for a group with diverse cravings.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
Begin at the sushi bar with the **Dragon Roll**. A masterpiece of texture and taste, it typically features eel, cucumber, and avocado, topped with a thin slice of avocado and a sweet, glossy eel sauce. It’s a roll that has it all: creaminess, crunch, sweetness, and umami.
From the grill side of the menu, you must try the **Szechuan Beef**. This is not your average takeout stir-fry. Tender strips of beef are wok-tossed with crisp vegetables in a sauce that is the very definition of fiery and numbing—a complex layering of heat from dried chilis and the unique tingling sensation of Szechuan peppercorns. It’s a bold, addictive dish that will wake up every taste bud you have.
---
### **4. Cool Basil: A Modern Thai Oasis**
**Location:** 1250 86th St, Clive, Iowa, 50325
Cool Basil lives up to its name, offering a refreshingly modern and clean take on Thai classics. The atmosphere is bright and contemporary, a calm oasis where the food is the undeniable star. The flavors here are bright, balanced, and complex, a testament to the careful layering of fresh herbs and spices.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
Your journey here starts with the **Fresh Spring Rolls**. Wrapped in delicate rice paper, they are stuffed with shrimp, vermicelli noodles, mint, and lettuce, creating a cool, refreshing package that is perfectly complemented by the tangy peanut dipping sauce.
For your entrée, the **Panang Curry** is nothing short of sublime. The curry base is rich, creamy with coconut milk, and infused with the distinct flavor of kaffir lime leaves and roasted peanuts. It has a gentle heat that builds slowly, allowing the intricate flavors to shine. Choose your protein (the chicken is superb), and enjoy it over a bed of steaming jasmine rice. It’s a bowl of pure comfort and sophistication.
---
### **5. Capriotti's Sandwich Shop: The Bobbie, and a Legend Born**
**Location:** 13101 University Ave, Clive, Iowa, 50325
Sometimes, the most profound culinary experiences come not from a white-tablecloth restaurant, but from a sandwich shop that has perfected its craft. Capriotti's is a temple to the stacked, the stuffed, and the sublime. It's a bustling, no-frills spot where the focus is entirely on creating what might be the best sandwich you'll ever eat.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
There is only one order here for a first-timer: **The Bobbie**. This is the sandwich that has achieved mythical status. Imagine Thanksgiving dinner, perfected and packed between two halves of a fresh roll. It’s made with hand-pulled roasted turkey, homemade cranberry sauce, sharp provolone cheese, and a generous slather of mayonnaise. It’s sweet, savory, creamy, and nostalgic all at once. It’s not just a sandwich; it’s an event. Pair it with their classic potato chips and a pickle spear for the full, perfect experience.
---
### **6. John & Nick's Steak & Prime Rib Inc.: A Carnivore's Sanctuary**
**Location:** 15970 Hickman Rd, Clive, Iowa, 50325
This is where you come when you have a primal craving for a perfectly cooked piece of meat. John & Nick's is an institution, a classic American steakhouse with a dark, clubby atmosphere, leather booths, and the steady hum of contented diners. The service is polished and professional, and the menu is a love letter to beef.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
While their steaks are impeccable, the star of the show is, without a doubt, the **Prime Rib**. Offered in a range of cuts, it’s a slow-roasted masterpiece that is incredibly juicy, flavorful, and so tender it barely requires a knife. The au jus is rich and deep, and when paired with a creamy horseradish sauce, it elevates the dish to legendary status. Get it with a loaded baked potato and their classic wedge salad for the quintessential steakhouse experience.
---
### **7. Fazio's University Tap: The Neighborhood Pub, Perfected**
**Location:** 7500 University Blvd Ste I, Clive, Iowa, 50325
Fazio's is the living room of Clive—a comfortable, buzzing pub where everyone seems to know each other. With a massive selection of beers on tap and a menu of elevated pub grub, it’s the perfect place to watch the game, meet friends, or simply enjoy a damn good burger.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
You have to start with their **Tots**. But not just any tots. Get them loaded with cheese, bacon, and scallions. They are the ultimate shareable, indulgent bar snack. For your main, the **University Tap Burger** is a thing of beauty. A juicy, half-pound patty cooked to your liking, topped with cheddar cheese, applewood-smoked bacon, and a tangy barbecue sauce, all on a toasted brioche bun. It’s messy, satisfying, and pairs perfectly with a cold local IPA from their extensive tap list.
---
### **8. Coaches Kolaches: A Sweet & Savory Morning Delight**
**Location:** 2777 100th St, Clive, Iowa, 50322
For a unique breakfast or lunch stop, Coaches Kolaches is a hidden gem. This is not your standard Iowa fare; it’s a taste of Czech and Texan tradition. Kolaches are soft, slightly sweet yeast dough pillows, baked to a golden perfection and filled with either sweet fruit or savory meats.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
Go for a mix to truly appreciate the range. For the savory side, the **Sausage & Jalapeño Kolache** is a winner. The savory sausage and the spicy kick of jalapeño are a perfect contrast to the soft, sweet dough. For a classic sweet option, the **Apricot or Cream Cheese Kolache** is divine. It’s like a portable, less-sweet Danish that pairs perfectly with a cup of good coffee. It’s a quick, delicious, and utterly unique Clive experience.
---
### **9. Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant: The Full Sensory Experience**
**Location:** 12801 University Ave, Clive, Iowa, 50325
Cooper’s Hawk offers a polished, modern, and comprehensive dining experience. Part winery, part restaurant, it’s a place for special occasions, date nights, or anyone who loves the synergy of food and wine. The atmosphere is upscale yet inviting, and the menu is designed with wine pairings in mind.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
The journey begins with a tasting at the wine bar—their own wines are surprisingly diverse and well-crafted. At the table, start with the **Asian Pork Belly Tostados**—a crispy, sweet, savory, and spicy bite that is incredibly complex. For your entrée, the **Parmesan-Crusted Filet** is a signature dish for a reason. A tender filet mignon is topped with a parmesan crust and a rich mushroom wine sauce. It’s luxurious and unforgettable. Let your server guide you to the perfect wine pairing from their extensive list.
---
### **10. Aura Restaurant & Lounge: Sleek, Sexy, and Sophisticated**
**Location:** 12851 University Ave #400, Clive, Iowa, 50325
Aura is the crescendo of our culinary tour. This is fine dining in Clive. With its chic, contemporary decor, moody lighting, and sophisticated lounge, Aura is where you come to see and be seen. The menu is globally inspired, creative, and beautifully presented. The cocktail program is equally impressive.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
Begin your evening with one of their craft cocktails—perhaps a twist on a classic Old Fashioned. For an appetizer, the **Ahi Tuna Poke** is fresh, bright, and artfully arranged. When it comes to the main course, the **Duck Two Ways** is a showstopper. You’ll often find a perfectly seared duck breast with crispy skin alongside a rich, fall-apart duck confit, accompanied by a sweet and savory component like a cherry gastrique or sweet potato puree. It’s a dish that showcases technical skill and bold flavors. End your night with their **Chocolate Lava Cake**, a timeless dessert executed to perfection.
### **The Final Bite**
From the homey comfort of Billy Vee's to the sleek sophistication of Aura, Clive, Iowa, proves that a vibrant food scene isn't defined by city limits, but by passion, quality, and diversity. Each of these ten establishments offers a unique window into the soul of this community—a community that values a good meal, shared with good people. So, come hungry, explore freely, and let your taste buds write the rest of the story. You won't be disappointed.
### **A Culinary Crossroads: An Introduction to Clive's Dining Scene**
Nestled just west of Des Moines, Clive is more than just a dot on the map; it's a destination for those who believe a great meal is the cornerstone of a good life. Here, family recipes passed down through generations share the block with innovative concepts pushing the boundaries of flavor. The atmosphere ranges from the cozy, red-checkered-tablecloth comfort of classic Italian joints to the sleek, modern lounges where mixology is an art form. This guide will take you through ten of its standout establishments, offering a curated taste of what makes each one unique. Consider me your personal culinary scout, here to whisper in your ear about what's truly unmissable.
---
### **1. Billy Vee’s Italian Restaurant: A Hug from Nonna**
**Location:** 9968 Swanson Blvd, Clive, Iowa, 50325
Step through the door of Billy Vee’s and you are immediately wrapped in the warm, garlicky embrace of a true neighborhood Italian kitchen. The air is thick with the scent of simmering marinara and baking bread. It’s a place of comfortable booths, friendly chatter, and portions that make you feel like family. This isn't fussy, modern Italian; this is the classics, done right, with heart and soul.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
Start your feast with the **Fried Calamari**. It’s perfectly tender, lightly battered, and served with a zesty marinara for dipping. For your main event, you face a delightful dilemma. The **Chicken or Veal Parmesan** is a titan of the menu—a generously portioned cutlet, breaded and fried to a golden crisp, smothered in a robust, tangy tomato sauce and a blanket of melted, bubbling mozzarella. It’s a symphony of texture and comfort.
However, if you’re feeling decadent, the **Fettuccine Alfredo** is a masterclass in simplicity. The sauce is creamy, cheesy, and clings to every strand of house-made pasta without being overly heavy. Pair it with a glass of Chianti, and you've achieved pasta nirvana. Save room for the **Tiramisu**—it’s light, coffee-kissed, and the perfect final note.
---
### **2. Mi Mexico Restaurant: A Fiesta for the Senses**
**Location:** 11407 Forest Ave, Clive, Iowa, 50325
The moment you walk into Mi Mexico, the vibrant colors, the sound of Spanish music, and the irresistible aroma of sizzling fajitas welcome you like a celebration. This is a family-run establishment where the hospitality is as warm as the freshly made tortillas. It’s a place for lively gatherings, frosty margaritas, and food that bursts with authentic, south-of-the-border flavor.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
You cannot go wrong with their **House Margarita** on the rocks—it’s the quintessential companion to the meal. To start, the **Queso Fundido** with chorizo is a must. This glorious, bubbling skillet of melted cheese and spicy sausage arrives with soft tortillas for you to assemble your own perfect, gooey bite.
For the main course, venture beyond the standard tacos and burritos (though they are excellent) to the **Carnitas**. The pork is slow-braised until it’s impossibly tender on the inside with delightfully crispy edges. Served with rice, beans, fresh guacamole, and salsa, it’s a profound and satisfying dish. Alternatively, the **Molcajete** is a show-stopper—a volcanic stone bowl filled with a bubbling concoction of grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, and nopales, all bathing in a rich, spicy salsa. It’s an experience as much as a meal.
---
### **3. Mandarin Grill & Sushi Bar: The Best of Both Worlds**
**Location:** 1250 Northwest 128th Street # 100, Clive, Iowa, 50325
Why choose when you can have it all? Mandarin Grill is a culinary diplomat, expertly bridging the rich, savory flavors of Chinese cuisine with the precise, elegant art of Japanese sushi. The dining room is spacious and modern, with a serene sushi bar where you can watch the masters at work. It’s the ideal spot for a group with diverse cravings.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
Begin at the sushi bar with the **Dragon Roll**. A masterpiece of texture and taste, it typically features eel, cucumber, and avocado, topped with a thin slice of avocado and a sweet, glossy eel sauce. It’s a roll that has it all: creaminess, crunch, sweetness, and umami.
From the grill side of the menu, you must try the **Szechuan Beef**. This is not your average takeout stir-fry. Tender strips of beef are wok-tossed with crisp vegetables in a sauce that is the very definition of fiery and numbing—a complex layering of heat from dried chilis and the unique tingling sensation of Szechuan peppercorns. It’s a bold, addictive dish that will wake up every taste bud you have.
---
### **4. Cool Basil: A Modern Thai Oasis**
**Location:** 1250 86th St, Clive, Iowa, 50325
Cool Basil lives up to its name, offering a refreshingly modern and clean take on Thai classics. The atmosphere is bright and contemporary, a calm oasis where the food is the undeniable star. The flavors here are bright, balanced, and complex, a testament to the careful layering of fresh herbs and spices.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
Your journey here starts with the **Fresh Spring Rolls**. Wrapped in delicate rice paper, they are stuffed with shrimp, vermicelli noodles, mint, and lettuce, creating a cool, refreshing package that is perfectly complemented by the tangy peanut dipping sauce.
For your entrée, the **Panang Curry** is nothing short of sublime. The curry base is rich, creamy with coconut milk, and infused with the distinct flavor of kaffir lime leaves and roasted peanuts. It has a gentle heat that builds slowly, allowing the intricate flavors to shine. Choose your protein (the chicken is superb), and enjoy it over a bed of steaming jasmine rice. It’s a bowl of pure comfort and sophistication.
---
### **5. Capriotti's Sandwich Shop: The Bobbie, and a Legend Born**
**Location:** 13101 University Ave, Clive, Iowa, 50325
Sometimes, the most profound culinary experiences come not from a white-tablecloth restaurant, but from a sandwich shop that has perfected its craft. Capriotti's is a temple to the stacked, the stuffed, and the sublime. It's a bustling, no-frills spot where the focus is entirely on creating what might be the best sandwich you'll ever eat.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
There is only one order here for a first-timer: **The Bobbie**. This is the sandwich that has achieved mythical status. Imagine Thanksgiving dinner, perfected and packed between two halves of a fresh roll. It’s made with hand-pulled roasted turkey, homemade cranberry sauce, sharp provolone cheese, and a generous slather of mayonnaise. It’s sweet, savory, creamy, and nostalgic all at once. It’s not just a sandwich; it’s an event. Pair it with their classic potato chips and a pickle spear for the full, perfect experience.
---
### **6. John & Nick's Steak & Prime Rib Inc.: A Carnivore's Sanctuary**
**Location:** 15970 Hickman Rd, Clive, Iowa, 50325
This is where you come when you have a primal craving for a perfectly cooked piece of meat. John & Nick's is an institution, a classic American steakhouse with a dark, clubby atmosphere, leather booths, and the steady hum of contented diners. The service is polished and professional, and the menu is a love letter to beef.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
While their steaks are impeccable, the star of the show is, without a doubt, the **Prime Rib**. Offered in a range of cuts, it’s a slow-roasted masterpiece that is incredibly juicy, flavorful, and so tender it barely requires a knife. The au jus is rich and deep, and when paired with a creamy horseradish sauce, it elevates the dish to legendary status. Get it with a loaded baked potato and their classic wedge salad for the quintessential steakhouse experience.
---
### **7. Fazio's University Tap: The Neighborhood Pub, Perfected**
**Location:** 7500 University Blvd Ste I, Clive, Iowa, 50325
Fazio's is the living room of Clive—a comfortable, buzzing pub where everyone seems to know each other. With a massive selection of beers on tap and a menu of elevated pub grub, it’s the perfect place to watch the game, meet friends, or simply enjoy a damn good burger.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
You have to start with their **Tots**. But not just any tots. Get them loaded with cheese, bacon, and scallions. They are the ultimate shareable, indulgent bar snack. For your main, the **University Tap Burger** is a thing of beauty. A juicy, half-pound patty cooked to your liking, topped with cheddar cheese, applewood-smoked bacon, and a tangy barbecue sauce, all on a toasted brioche bun. It’s messy, satisfying, and pairs perfectly with a cold local IPA from their extensive tap list.
---
### **8. Coaches Kolaches: A Sweet & Savory Morning Delight**
**Location:** 2777 100th St, Clive, Iowa, 50322
For a unique breakfast or lunch stop, Coaches Kolaches is a hidden gem. This is not your standard Iowa fare; it’s a taste of Czech and Texan tradition. Kolaches are soft, slightly sweet yeast dough pillows, baked to a golden perfection and filled with either sweet fruit or savory meats.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
Go for a mix to truly appreciate the range. For the savory side, the **Sausage & Jalapeño Kolache** is a winner. The savory sausage and the spicy kick of jalapeño are a perfect contrast to the soft, sweet dough. For a classic sweet option, the **Apricot or Cream Cheese Kolache** is divine. It’s like a portable, less-sweet Danish that pairs perfectly with a cup of good coffee. It’s a quick, delicious, and utterly unique Clive experience.
---
### **9. Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant: The Full Sensory Experience**
**Location:** 12801 University Ave, Clive, Iowa, 50325
Cooper’s Hawk offers a polished, modern, and comprehensive dining experience. Part winery, part restaurant, it’s a place for special occasions, date nights, or anyone who loves the synergy of food and wine. The atmosphere is upscale yet inviting, and the menu is designed with wine pairings in mind.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
The journey begins with a tasting at the wine bar—their own wines are surprisingly diverse and well-crafted. At the table, start with the **Asian Pork Belly Tostados**—a crispy, sweet, savory, and spicy bite that is incredibly complex. For your entrée, the **Parmesan-Crusted Filet** is a signature dish for a reason. A tender filet mignon is topped with a parmesan crust and a rich mushroom wine sauce. It’s luxurious and unforgettable. Let your server guide you to the perfect wine pairing from their extensive list.
---
### **10. Aura Restaurant & Lounge: Sleek, Sexy, and Sophisticated**
**Location:** 12851 University Ave #400, Clive, Iowa, 50325
Aura is the crescendo of our culinary tour. This is fine dining in Clive. With its chic, contemporary decor, moody lighting, and sophisticated lounge, Aura is where you come to see and be seen. The menu is globally inspired, creative, and beautifully presented. The cocktail program is equally impressive.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
Begin your evening with one of their craft cocktails—perhaps a twist on a classic Old Fashioned. For an appetizer, the **Ahi Tuna Poke** is fresh, bright, and artfully arranged. When it comes to the main course, the **Duck Two Ways** is a showstopper. You’ll often find a perfectly seared duck breast with crispy skin alongside a rich, fall-apart duck confit, accompanied by a sweet and savory component like a cherry gastrique or sweet potato puree. It’s a dish that showcases technical skill and bold flavors. End your night with their **Chocolate Lava Cake**, a timeless dessert executed to perfection.
### **The Final Bite**
From the homey comfort of Billy Vee's to the sleek sophistication of Aura, Clive, Iowa, proves that a vibrant food scene isn't defined by city limits, but by passion, quality, and diversity. Each of these ten establishments offers a unique window into the soul of this community—a community that values a good meal, shared with good people. So, come hungry, explore freely, and let your taste buds write the rest of the story. You won't be disappointed.
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