Des Moines’ culinary scene is often celebrated, and the recent Cityview “Best of Des Moines” reader survey highlighted some top contenders. Among the winners, John & Nick’s Steak and Prime Rib stood out, securing awards including the coveted title of best steakhouse. This recognition sparked our interest, prompting a closer look at what makes John & Nick’s a local favorite.
The concept of “best” in such surveys often leans towards popularity, where the establishment with the most votes wins. This can sometimes overshadow truly exceptional but perhaps less accessible venues. High-end steakhouses, while offering premium experiences, might receive fewer votes simply due to their price point. This led us to question: does John & Nick’s popularity equate to genuine quality and value? To find out, we ventured to their Clive location.
Nestled within a shopping center on the west side of Clive, John & Nick’s unassuming exterior belies the expansive and inviting atmosphere within. Stepping inside, guests are greeted by a surprisingly large space, thoughtfully divided into two distinct yet harmonious dining areas. One section buzzes with the energy of a lively bar, complete with comfortable tables and booths, ideal for casual dining or drinks. The other area presents a more formal dining setting, adorned with granite-top tables, elegant stone statuary, and shimmering chandeliers, all complemented by extensive wood paneling. The décor, while perhaps a touch elaborate, contributes to a warm and welcoming ambiance.
Alt text: A framed photograph of John and Nick Jaeger, the father-son duo behind John and Nicks Steak and Prime Rib, showcasing the family-owned aspect of the restaurant.
The restaurant’s name itself is a tribute to its founders, John and Nick Jaeger. A prominent framed photograph within the establishment proudly displays John, the chef and owner, alongside his son Nick, solidifying the family-run nature of this local gem.
While John & Nick’s is renowned for its steaks and prime rib, it was their salad bar that initially captured our attention. Frequently lauded and centrally located in the dining room, the salad bar is hard to miss – and for good reason.
Alt text: John and Nicks Steak and Prime Rib’s extensive salad bar featuring a wide array of fresh ingredients and toppings, emphasizing its freshness and variety.
Unlike typical, understated salad bars, John & Nick’s version commands attention. It’s a sprawling display, a centerpiece in the dining area, boasting an impressive selection of 60 different salad components. These ingredients are meticulously maintained, frequently replenished, and kept chilled on a bed of ice, ensuring freshness and quality. Unlimited access to this impressive salad bar is included with many of their entrees, a testament to their commitment to value. Unsurprisingly, this exceptional salad bar also earned top honors in Cityview’s survey, further solidifying its appeal.
Turning to the main attraction, the beef at John & Nick’s is undeniably satisfying. Their steaks are expertly cooked, though they utilize USDA choice grade beef, a step below the premium USDA prime. While some establishments might falter with choice grade, the chef at John & Nick’s demonstrates a talent for selecting high-quality choice cuts, effectively bridging the gap in quality. Moreover, the use of choice grade beef contributes to the restaurant’s affordability, a significant advantage reflected in the final bill.
Among the standout dishes was the 12-ounce shotgun blackened rib-eye steak. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to order, it was a flavorful and satisfying choice, especially accompanied by creamy garlic mashed potatoes, one of the many tempting side options.
A slightly more indulgent order of bacon-wrapped scallops and prime rib also proved to be a tasty experience. While the prime rib was cooked to perfection, a minor critique would be that crispier bacon would have elevated the scallops further.
The menu at John & Nick’s is extensive, catering to a wide range of tastes. Beyond their signature steaks, diners can explore a variety of grilled beef options, pork chops, and chicken breasts. Seafood lovers will find ample choices, including salmon, walleye, roughy, mahi mahi, tilapia, crab, shrimp, scallops, and lobster.
For a truly special occasion, the menu’s pièce de résistance is the lobster and prime rib combination. This luxurious offering features a half-pound lobster tail paired with a generous slice of prime rib, promising a memorable dining experience.
For more budget-conscious diners, John & Nick’s also offers a selection of sandwiches, pasta dishes, and enticing nightly specials featuring prime rib, steaks, kabobs, and other delectable options.
So, is John & Nick’s truly the “best” steakhouse? The answer depends on one’s definition of “best.” While it may not compete directly with the ultra-high-end echelon of steakhouses like Fleming’s, that isn’t its intention.
Instead, John & Nick’s strategically occupies a comfortable middle ground, skillfully balancing quality and affordability to create a genuinely enjoyable dining experience. It offers a welcoming atmosphere, a standout salad bar, satisfying steaks, and a diverse menu, all at a price point that is accessible to a wider audience.
In this regard, John & Nick’s is undoubtedly a winner. It delivers exceptional value and a consistently pleasant dining experience, making it a highly recommended destination for steak and prime rib lovers in Des Moines and beyond.
Review: John & Nick’s Steak and Prime Rib – Worth a Visit to Highly Recommended.
