Venue photo 1

Centro

4.6(2,438)
Italian Restaurant

About

Centro occupies a striking former Masonic temple in downtown Des Moines, offering a spacious setting with soaring ceilings and arched windows that create an atmosphere both grand and inviting. The venue’s Italian-inspired menu features fresh, thoughtfully prepared dishes like ricotta gnocchi and wood-fired pizzas, balancing casual elegance with culinary precision.

Ideal for business dinners or client meetings, Centro’s warm lighting and moderate noise level foster conversation without distraction. The option to reserve the patio adds a flexible outdoor dimension, making it a distinctive choice for groups seeking a refined yet approachable dining experience in the city center.

Best for

  • Client dinners in a striking historic setting
  • Team lunches with upscale Italian fare
  • Casual business gatherings on the outdoor patio

Request a Package

Tell the venue what you're planning and they'll respond with a custom proposal within 1–2 business days.

Group Dining Event

Custom request

Perfect for team dinners, client lunches, and celebration meals. Reserve a private or semi-private space for your group with food, drinks, and AV if needed.

What's typically included

  • Private or semi-private space
  • Food & beverage
  • AV & technology

Happy Hour

Custom request

Host a relaxed evening reception for your team or clients. Reserve a space for drinks and light bites in a social, low-key setting.

What's typically included

  • Private or semi-private space
  • Food & beverage

Full Buyout

Custom request

Take over the entire restaurant for your event. Full control of the space, menu, and atmosphere — ideal for large celebrations or exclusive corporate events.

What's typically included

  • Full venue layout
  • Food & beverage
  • AV & technology

Venue Details

Standout features

High-ceilinged former Masonic temple
Architecture
High-ceilinged former Masonic temple
The venue occupies a former Masonic temple with tall arched windows and lofty ceilings, creating a spacious, ambitious atmosphere that sets it apart from typical Italian restaurants.
Covered patio with seating
Outdoor Space
Covered patio with seating
Centro offers an outdoor patio area with seating, providing a flexible option for gatherings in a comfortable open-air environment.
Expertly crafted Italian dishes
Food Quality
Expertly crafted Italian dishes
The kitchen delivers well-executed Italian fare including pillowy ricotta gnocchi, wood-grilled flank steak with Gorgonzola cream, and wood-fired pizzas with properly charred crusts, reflecting a high level of culinary skill.

At a glance

Rated 4.6 on Google · 2,438 reviews