A New Supper Club-Inspired Restaurant Has Opened in Iowa

A cool new eatery has finally opened its doors! Guesthouse Tavern + Oyster has begun welcoming customers at 9500 University Ave in West Des Moines!

According to an article from the Des Moines Register, Guesthouse Tavern + Oyster is a new restaurant in Central Iowa that was inspired by old-school supper clubs here in the Midwest. The restaurant's official website reads:

"The story of Guesthouse Tavern + Oyster begins in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. Partners Derek Eidson & Pete Faber frequent the area several times a year to fish, ATV, boat, and hit the local bars and supper clubs, while enjoying an occasional sip of bourbon by the campfire. Guesthouse pays homage to the experiences up North, while combining the influences of the Northwoods and other elements we enjoy and are passionate about."

The menu at Guesthouse Tavern + Oyster obviously includes oysters, but it also features plenty of comfort food. They have the Cast Iron Hot Dish, Bacon + Crab Mac & Cheese, Beef Stroganoff, Beer Cheese & Smoked Sausage Soup, Vegan Meatloaf, a Fried Bologna Sandwich, Twice Baked-Style Mashed Potatoes, and more. The menu also contains sandwiches, salads, and plenty of meat options, as well as the "Supper Club Relish Tray." That's an appetizer built for two with assorted pickles, marinated vegetables, jam, beer cheese spread, summer sausage, and crackers. The website says that the restaurant's goal is to "bring you well thought out items from our seasonal food and beverage offerings, while relaxing and enjoying our cozy cabin-like atmosphere, where great Midwestern hospitality is evident with each visit."

Guesthouse Tavern + Oyster is now open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. You can make a reservation on their website HERE.

Old-school supper clubs are popular here in the Midwest, and there are quite a few located in the state of Iowa. One of the most well-known is Lighthouse Inn in Cedar Rapids, which has been open since 1912! Here are a few others in the state:

• Moracco Supper Club, Dubuque
• Signature’s Supper Club, Northwood
• Kalmes Club 528, Cascade
• Hale Tap & Supper Club, Wyoming
• Spillway Supper Club, Harpers Ferry
• Twin Springs Supper Club, Decorah
• Portside Bar and Supper Club, Harpers Ferry
• Maxie's Supper Club, West Des Moines
• Thirsty Camel Supper Club, Conesville
• Bridge Cafe & Supper Club, Farmington