Best Places To Pick Apples In Waukee and The Metro

August 23, 2016 by admin

With the start of September, we begin to close the chapter on Summer and gear up for Fall. That can only mean one thing, besides Starbucks bringing back Pumpkin-Spice Lattes – it’s apple picking time!

Luckily, living in the MidWest gives us ample access to orchards producing wide varieties of apples at our finger-tips.

Here is our list of top “picks” for apple pickin’ in the Waukee / Metro area:

Center Grove Orchard

32835 610th Ave., Cambridge
515-383-4354

Country Store Now Open: Monday – Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM
Farmyard Opens September 10th

Enjoy daily hayrides, corn pool, corn maze and hay maze, farm animals, pedal tractors, weekend festivals with live entertainment, and so much more.

Wills Family Orchard

33130 Panther Creek Road, Adel
515-321-1847

Open Saturdays, 10 AM – 4 PM

A FREE family favorite, located just 20 minutes west of West Des Moines, offers the full Iowa Fall experience, with organic u-pick apples and a variety of farm fresh goods!

Iowa Orchard

9875 Meredith Drive, Urbandale
515-276-0852

Open Monday – Sunday, 9 AM – 6 PM

A large selection of apple-themed fare, including pies, crisps, caramel apples and cider, plus honey, fudge and numerous other Fall favorites. Be sure to hit the hayrack ride on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays as well as the Farm Fun Zone!

Upstream Gardens & Orchard

5987 NE 88th Street, Altoona
515-957-1303

Open Daily, Hours Vary With The Season

Find pick-your-own or already picked apples along with fresh apple cider made right on the premises!

Berry Patch Farms

62785 280th Street, Nevada
515-382-5138

Open Monday – Saturday, 8 AM – 1 PM and Thursday, 5 – 7 PM
Closed on Sundays

You will find farm fresh apples, berries and vegetables ripe and ready for picking, which have been artfully grown.

Now, who is craving a hot apple cider and/or caramel apple right about now? Check out one of these locally-owned and operated apple orchards today and get a pickin’!

Back-To-School :: Lunchbox Essentials

July 28, 2016 by admin

Yes, you read that right. Back-To-School. Even though it feels like we literally blinked and Summer is over, it’s time to start gearing up for the new school year!

With the start of any new school year, comes the much anticipated back to school shopping, finding the perfect shoes, sharpening pencils, and of course, packing lunch. Having the right arsenal of equipment can make lunchtime preparation a breeze!

Here is our list of Lunchbox Essentials:

The Lunch Box // YumBox Lunch

Bento-style dining is all the rage in the school cafeteria! These Bento lunch boxes are small enough to fit into any standard size lunch bag, but large enough to hold all the makings of a yummy and satisfying lunch!

The Water Bottle // Contigo

By far the most durable and reliable water bottle we’ve come across. These flip-spout water bottles from Contigo hold up to everyday use, keep beverages cold and are even easy to clean!

The Snack Bag // Itzy Ritzy

The school year comes around and plastic baggies start going out the window like hotcakes. Save your money and the environment with reusable snack bags, like these zippered and lined pouches from Itzy Ritzy!

The Ice Pack // Kids Konserve

No need to worry about keeping refrigerated items cold! These ice packs from Kids Konserve have a no sweat outer pouch that prevents other items from getting soggy and keep lunch boxes nice and cool!

The Utensils // Pottery Barn Kids

Another area of waste, along with plastic baggies, can be disposable utensils. Invest in a nice set of reusable silverware and save yourself some green, while helping keep our planet green. Now that’s a win-win!

The Insulated Cup // Skip*Hop

Enough about keeping food cold, what about keeping things hot? These adorable insulated cups from Skip*Hop are just what you need for those hot lunch items on the menu!

What are your lunchbox essentials? Have any tips or tricks to make school lunches easier and more efficient?

Grilled Side of Fresh Salmon with Mustard Dill Glaze

July 15, 2016 by admin

Do you like salmon? It’s incredibly versatile—it can be served as an appetizer, a dinner entrée, in pasta, or on a salad. I’d like to share with you an easy and tasty salmon recipe that’s not only unique, but makes a beautiful presentation for guests.

Grilled Side of Fresh Salmon with Mustard Dill Glaze

2 T Black mustard seeds

½ c Mayonnaise

½ c Whole-grain mustard

2 T Dill, fine chop

1 T Fresh lime juice

1 T Dark brown sugar

1 t Ground black pepper

1-2# Side of salmon, skin on (rub your hand over it to check for pin bones)

Olive oil

Salt

Pepper

Preheat a gas grill.

Toast mustard seeds in a dry pan over moderate heat until they begin to pop (about two minutes), and transfer to a plate. In a bowl, whisk the mayonnaise through pepper. Set aside half in a bowl for service.

Rub olive oil over entire salmon and generously season with salt and pepper. Pan-spray the grill grates. Place salmon, skin side up, on the grill. Turn after two minutes. Gently turn after another two minutes and smear with glaze.

Close the grill lid and cook over moderate heat for eight minutes. Move to the rack with more glaze and close the lid. Continue cooking another five minutes or until done.

Garnish a platter and place the salmon on the platter. Serve with additional glaze/sauce.

Featured Teacher: Jen Kerley

July 15, 2016 by admin

Jen Kerley has had a passion for health for many years, but her biggest inspiration as a health teacher at Prairieview School is seeing her students grow in their learning.

“I want to give them tools to help them live healthy and productive lives,” she said. With the care and consideration she displays for each student, it’s no wonder that Kerley was nominated to be featured in myWaukee by Jori Nieman and Gracie Havnen.

Kerley went to college to pursue a community health education degree. During her first year working with all age groups for a county health department, she discovered that she especially enjoyed working in schools. She decided to return to school for teaching and earned a master’s degree in education. After six years of teaching middle school health in a Chicago suburb, she and her family moved to the Des Moines area in 2010. Kerley spent a few years teaching health at Waukee Middle School and is now finishing up her first year as a ninth grade teacher at Prairieview School.

While Kerley teaches a wide variety of health topics—from fitness and nutrition to diseases and first aid—her main goal is to impart lifelong skills to her students so they can continue to learn after they leave her classroom. For example, if a student needs to know about a subject like heart disease later on in their life, “they might not be able to recall all the information, but I hope I’ve given them the tools and skills to obtain the information that will be useful for them,” said Kerley.

The life skills taught by Kerley include goal-setting, advocating for themselves and others, and being able to interpret health information and apply it to improve their own health. “That’s my goal for them, so they can enhance their health for the rest of their lives,” said Kerley.

When she’s not teaching, Kerley spends much of her time with her husband and three children. In the midst of juggling activities and work, they do whatever they can to be together as a family.

A “Rail” Success in Fundraising

July 15, 2016 by admin

Waukee Trailhead Public Art Committee Secures $1.1 Million for “Waukee Railroad Pergola”

Bicyclists come from near and far to pedal along the Raccoon River Valley Trail, with its most significant trailhead located in Waukee. Thanks to a creative vision and a lot of planning and fundraising work, riders will soon have a new feature to enjoy.

The Waukee Trailhead Public Art Project Committee met its fundraising goal of $1.1 million on June 8, thanks in part to a $147,650 “Community Attraction & Tourism” grant from the Vision Iowa Board. The project has come a long way since the early planning stages.

“Several years ago, Chuck Offenburger and I were discussing that, as people came out of the metro on their bikes to the Raccoon River Valley Trail system, they didn’t really know there is a transition,” said Waukee Trailhead Public Art Committee Co-Chair Jim Miller. “We wondered how we could make the Waukee Trailhead a more noticeable gateway to the trail. We joked about building an arch; then we laughed and moved on. But that conversation stuck with me, and I thought maybe we really could do something special.”

In 2012, Miller and co-chair Randy Jensen formed a committee to discuss a potential trailhead art project. They didn’t know what it would be, but after meeting with designers, they got excited about the possibilities. David Dahlquist and RDG Planning & Design—the team that designed Ankeny’s High Trestle Trail Bridge art—was chosen by the committee to create something unique and regionally relevant for the site.

With the support of the Waukee City Council and after several rounds of public input meetings, Waukee Railroad Pergola – In the Shadow of the Rails was chosen as the art feature.

“The pergola design was the one that really resonated with people. Involving the community was a great asset, as instead of the committee making this huge decision for the community, the community was, in a way, making it for the committee,” said Miller.

Waukee Parks & Recreation Director Matt Jermier said the pergola design is great because it’s interactive. Bikers can ride through the actual art installation. It also features LED lights, which will make night riding more enjoyable. Plus, it has a unique tie-in to Waukee’s railroad heritage.

“Just as the railroad once linked one community to the next, so does the Raccoon River Valley Trail today,” said Jermier. “The former rail system was actually repurposed to form the Raccoon River Valley Trail.”

The current trailhead

The City of Waukee previously earmarked $173,000 for capital improvements at the trailhead. Once the art project group formed, these budgeted funds were allocated to help pay for a comprehensive enhancement plan for the trailhead site. The plan includes a shelter and plaza structure and an improved parking lot.

“I think it’s evident, based on how many cars you see parked at the trailhead on any day of the week, that the trail is already very popular,” said Jermier. “The impact of the artwork will be huge as another amenity to offer Waukee residents and visitors. It will also serve nicely as a new western gateway to the City once the second high school and recreation complex are opened in 2021.”

Miller agrees that this amenity will bring more users to the trails. He notes the awe-inspiring experience he has each time he rides over the High Trestle Trail Bridge as a testament to the committee’s efforts.

“We’ve got the ability to replicate that kind of experience on this trail. A lot of people choose the High Trestle Trail because of the beauty and luminosity of the bridge,” said Miller. “Adding this fresh, new amenity will create that type of draw here in Waukee. It will be something truly unique to the trail system.”

And, it’s not just Waukee getting on board the art train. Eight other communities along the Raccoon River Valley Trail are planning to incorporate artistic elements from Waukee’s design into their respective locations. Once completed, the public art features will be located along the full 89-mile trail corridor, creating one of the longest linear public art installations in the country.

The target completion date for the trailhead improvements and art installation is set for the summer of 2017. Miller said many people have asked why $1.1 million is going into this art project and not into other improvements, like trail surfacing. He explained that most of the funds raised are from sources dedicated to this type of project.

“This was very specific fundraising—very targeted to those who invest in arts and culture initiatives,” said Miller.

With the funding in hand and the plans approved, the groundbreaking on the project could happen yet this year. Jermier thinks the pergola art will be an attraction for both bicyclists and non-bicyclists alike.

“I think the recent installation of the American Gothic-inspired sculpture at the Waukee Public Library was well-received, and we’re excited to add more public art to the City’s landscape to really put Waukee on the map,” said Jermier.

The committee is now looking for additional funds to support the partnering communities’ portions of the project. For more information, visit WaukeeTrailheadArt.org.

Faces of Waukee: Kirk Tyler

July 15, 2016 by admin

Tell us a little about your family.

Our family has been in the Coca-Cola business for over 107 years. I have a 91-year-old father that is still active in the business, and four sisters that are shareholders of our company. My wonderful wife, Janel, and I have been married for 37 years. Our daughter, Jessica, and her husband, Rob, have three children— Claire, Avery and Owen. Our son, Jay, lives in West Des Moines and works with us in the business. It truly is a family business.

We all see the big red trucks on our daily commutes in and out of Waukee. Tell us about Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Company and what you do there.

Atlantic Bottling began in Villisca, Iowa in the ice and ice cream business. We currently do business in central and southwest Iowa, but we’re soon expanding to service about 90 percent of the state with Coca-Cola products. I was fortunate enough to be named chairman of the company earlier this year. I oversee the daily operations in Atlantic and Waukee, but my favorite part of the job is getting out and visiting with our employees in the trade and listening to our customers talk about their needs and how we can help grow their businesses.

When you’re not working, what are some of your hobbies?

The people I work with say that while I never take vacations, I do work in some pretty nice places! Janel and I like to travel, and we also like to golf when time allows.

Generational ownership is becoming increasingly rare. What does it mean to you to work with your family?

A family business is a great place to work. I am the third generation in our business, and the fourth is working with us now. It’s a lot of work getting the family to work together, and it takes a lot of communication to keep everyone informed, but it’s all worth it.

We hear you make it a priority to give back to your community. Why is this so important to you?

We strongly believe in giving back to the communities in which we do business. These are the communities in which our employees live, work and play, so it’s important that we do what we can to keep them the type of places that keep and attract people that want to work for our company.

Truth time: What is your all-time favorite Coke product?

Nothing beats the taste of a Coca-Cola right off the production line in Atlantic. We make the best, and we are very proud of that.

Faces of Waukee: Jon Garner

July 15, 2016 by admin

Tell us a little about your family

I am truly blessed with an amazing family. My wife Cory and I have two boys— Ben is 5 and Tommy is 2. As anyone with young children knows, they are quite a handful at times, but we wouldn’t trade one ounce of their energy or enthusiasm, even when it’s not exactly focused in the right direction. My wife is a dentist with Lifepoint Dental Partners and works on the south side of Des Moines.

What do you do for a living?

I’m a partner at Hartung & Schroeder, LLP, a general litigation law firm in downtown Des Moines. While we do not specialize in any one area, a large portion of our practice is focused on business/corporate law, family law, personal injury litigation and class action lawsuits.

When you’re not working, what activities do you like to do with your family?

We try to spend as much time as possible outside. While this often revolves around soccer or tee ball games, we also spend a lot of time at the pool or with friends in our neighborhood. As is the case in much of the Waukee area, we have an amazing group of families in our neighborhood, and almost all of them have children, so on any given night, there’s usually a group of kids playing somewhere.

We hear you’re a fitness enthusiast. Tell us about that.

I’m not sure I qualify as an “enthusiast,” but I definitely enjoy working out. I have historically been a runner, but over the last six months, I’ve gotten involved in hot yoga at Power Life Yoga. I find the workouts incredibly challenging, both mentally and physically, and I truly enjoy the community of individuals I’ve met there.

In this issue, we talk about Iowa vineyards and finer dining. Do you and your wife have a favorite place for date nights?

That is a tough question! Des Moines has such a great collection of locally owned and operated restaurants to choose from. One of our favorites has always been Bistro Montage. Both the food and service are always amazing. A newer restaurant we have enjoyed is Reed’s Hollow in Beaverdale. It has an eclectic menu and great atmosphere.

Wine & Dine

July 15, 2016 by admin

Grilled steak with butter, potatoes and green salad over black metal board

Grilled steak with butter, potatoes and green salad. Need we say more?

The scene is set for a romantic dinner: The characters are dressed the part, the table is properly set, the candles are flickering, jazz standards are swaying in the background, and glasses of beer have poured to the brim—Cut! How about a nice bottle of red? Would you like to see the wine list? There’s something about wine that makes it the fancied and fitting libation for something special.

Of course, there are times and places for beer—like a backyard barbecue, a baseball game or a beer garden—but beer is more of a casual kickback and a tailgate, whereas wine is more of a garden party or a midnight in Paris.

But wine doesn’t have to be stuffy or uptight. Ask any sommelier—wine can get down at any occasion. It’s all about the perfect pairing, a pour your palate prefers and a helpful, knowledgeable server to bring it all together.

Whether you’re looking to set the mood for a date or just really enjoy a good glass of wine, make a reservation at any of the following local establishments.

Louie’s Wine Dive Waukee

This heart-of-Waukee establishment is listed for a reason, not just because “wine” is in its name. Louie’s Wine Dive takes the acquired taste for the language of vino—tannin, maceration, decant—and makes it personable and accessible. After all, their motto is, “Wine is supposed to be fun!” The Waukee location is one of seven (including the Des Moines location), yet it’s not cookie-cutter chain material. A neighborhood feel is made possible through ambiance and events like an educational monthly wine club with a sommelier. Use the wine board with specialty and small batch selections as an ordering guide. (Of course, it doesn’t hurt to order accompanying small plates of squeaky cheese, mussels or a much-needed dessert like the indoor s’mores.) Even if you’ve been here before, it’s prime time to make another reservation; the menu never gets stale and rotates with the flavors of the season.

Best bet for cheers: Drink joyfully with large, 8-ounce glasses of wine for $6 and 25% off all wine bottles during All Night Happy Hour on Mondays, plus daily happy hours from 4-6 p.m. Hit up late-night happy hour on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9-10 p.m. and Fridays from 10-11 p.m.

1378 Hickman Road, Waukee

louieswinedive.com

(515) 518-2075

Gusto Pizza

Located in West Des Moines, Gusto Pizza is quick to assert that its address is practically in Waukee (and conveniently close to Clive). It’s hard not to make Gusto a weekly habit. You can dress it up or down as much as you want, depending on the experience you’re looking for. Pizza and beer is a typical combo, but if you want something closer to a true Italian experience, try a signature pie (like the Vincent Van Goat, Thai Kwon Dough or Mona Lisa) with a glass or reasonably-priced bottle from the modest wine menu, which is divided simply between reds and whites.

Best bet: Tuesdays just got better with the half-off wine bottle deal from 5 p.m.-close

8950 University Avenue, Suite 105, West Des Moines

gustopizzaco.com/west-des-moines

(515) 216-2198

Trostel’s Dish

Of course we love a good cocktail, which Trostel’s bartenders sling up supremely, but when in drink derision, look to the wine list. Can’t decide between the section on “Little Bubbles” or “Unique Blends?” Wine flights are an excellent way to sample three different wines before committing to a glass (or bottle) while listening to live music on Saturdays from 7-10 p.m. Plus, the seasonally developed menu of shareable tapas or the impressive antipasto cheese plate selection is nothing short of necessary when dining al fresco on the patio.

Best bet for cheers: Wind down with wine during happy hour with a selection of $5 glasses of wine until 6 p.m. daily.

12851 University Avenue, Suite 400, Clive

dishtrostels.com

(515) 221-3474

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Firebirds is a classic sirloin, strip steak, seafood and giant-burger restaurant with a dining room that is modern, comfortable and surprisingly intimate. Price points on many menu items give this chain a “special occasion” feel, meaning a bottle of wine is a must. The menu is organized from light (champagne, prosecco, blushes and distinctive whites) to full-bodied (pinot noir, merlot and cabernet sauvignon), and includes a special selection section of limited bottles beginning at $80. If you just want a small glass of vino, Firebirds offers five-ounce pours for many of their wines.

Best bet for cheers: Half-price glasses of wine and a selection of bottles every Monday hits the spot. Happy hour is a welcome sight for sipping select glasses of wine for $5 during the summertime on the patio, or in the bar, Monday through Friday from 4-6:30 p.m. Be sure to pair with happy hour bar bites, like the Tenderloin Trio and Crispy Mahi Tacos.

440 South 68th Street, Suite 101, West Des Moines

west-des-moines.firebirdsrestaurants.com

(515) 259-8540

Grape Expectations

July 15, 2016 by admin

Any Iowa wine aficionado will assure you that you don’t have to book a trip to Napa or Sonoma to taste great wine straight from the vine.

Blair Zachariasen, Certified Wine Specialist at Waukee Hy-Vee, is one such wine expert. She’s a Certified Sommelier, a Certified Specialist of Wine and holds an Advanced Certificate in Wine & Spirits…and she encourages popping the corks of wine bottles made right around Waukee!

Iowa (Wine) Nice

Regional tastes and qualities of wine from around the U.S. are important and telling, just like regional identities of European wine. (Think world-famous growing areas like Champagne, Rhône Valley and Moravia.) This means Iowa’s wines are unique and different from what you would find in other growing regions.

“Iowa wines are often typecast in the sweet category, but there’s really a broad range of styles and flavors,” said Zachariasen. “I truly believe there’s an interesting Iowa wine for every wine drinker.”

For beginning wine drinkers, Zachariasen recommends starting with Iowa’s sweeter wines. (It’s like how many coffee drinkers start with a latte or a mocha before trending toward a daily black coffee.) “Most novices find that something sweet is more approachable while they learn and train their palate,” she said. “For those who dabble in drier wines, our cooler climate tends to create wines that feel a bit more rustic and have a bit more acidity. These make great food pairings and leave your mouth watering for more.”

Zachariasen also shared her picks for pairing with your summertime picnics and backyard barbecues. “The mouthwatering acidity of hybrid grapes, like Seyval Blanc, is crisp, thirst-quenching and lovely with lighter fare,” she said. “Juicy and ripely fruited, slightly off-dry red blends like Jasper Winery’s Behind the Shed Red and Covered Bridges Winery’s Rattlesnake Red are great with burgers, brats and dogs on the grill.”

Accessible, Affordable Sips

There’s a huge movement right now for buying fresh and local, which is easy to do in central Iowa, thanks to our multitude of producers, CSA programs and farmers’ markets. Take that concept to the next level and apply it to what you drink. Buying local wine means you know where the grapes came from and who produced them—all of which add extra value to the product. Plus, without the added shipping costs, local wine is easier on the pocketbook, too.

“Most local wine is very affordable! Most selections are between $10 and $15 per bottle,” said Zachariasen. “Premium selections are occasionally priced slightly higher, but even then, they’re rarely more than $30,” she said.

Helpful Smiles

Standing in the wine aisle can be a bit overwhelming, as you attempt to decipher all of the creative names and eye-catching labels. This is why it can be extra beneficial to build a relationship with the seller, whether you’re buying a bottle at a local winery, the neighborhood grocery store or a specialty wine shop.

“My best advice is to get to know your wine shop and the staff, and more importantly, let them get to know you,” Zachariasen advised. “Regardless of your level of knowledge, you are the expert when it comes to knowing what you like. Ultimately, I want you to love the wine and come back to try more, so you shouldn’t tell me what you think I want to hear. Don’t be afraid to be clear about your budget and ask questions if you don’t understand.”

A good way to get to know your local wine experts is to talk with them in the relaxed tasting rooms of a local winery or by signing up for a fun learning event at a wine shop or grocery store. Plus, you can always tune into Zachariasen’s podcast, aptly named “I Feel Vine.” Available on iTunes, the podcast is all about the “power of positive drinking” and features discussions on alternative wine bottle closures, when to decant and how to prepare for a great (wine inclusive) celebration.

Local Wineries Worth a Visit

This is the perfect time of year for a day trip or a romantic weekend to escape into the cool ambiance and tantalizing tastings of local wineries. You can mingle with the growers, learn about viticulture (the study, science and production of grapes) and taste homegrown wine, straight off the Iowan vine! The following wineries are definitely worth a visit.

Penoach Vineyard

Nestled north of Adel in the Raccoon River Valley, a repurposed red brick barn from 1917 is a working family-owned winery, founded in 2006. Its covered patio is a picturesque place to sample wines—for free!—that have been crafted from the eight grape varietals tenderly cultivated on the property. No matter your tastes—tropical, crisp or fruity—one of their 14 wines will fit your fancy. From the dessert-worthy rich, raspberry wine to the dry Windmill Red Penoach, you’ll begin to crave a date night with a bottle while the sounds from the vineyard’s summer concert series fill the evening. The barn and grounds are often rented out for weddings and events, and the high quality of wine is maintained by owners Stan and Joanie Olson.

26759 N Avenue, Adel

www.penoach.com

(515) 993-4374

Hours: Friday 12-6 p.m.; Saturday 12-5 p.m.; Sunday 1-5 p.m.

Snus Hill Vineyard and Winery

The grapes grown at Snus Hill are truly the fruits of one family’s labors. The winery thrives on the land first purchased in 1878 by the Swedish immigrant ancestors of the current owners, John and Diane Larson. What the Larsons first planted in 1999 has grown into a fully functional and flourishing vineyard. The vineyard’s name pays tribute to their history, as snus is a type of old Swedish chewing tobacco, while some of their wines’ names play around a feline theme, inspired by the family’s Burmese cats—Whisker White or Cat Nip, anyone? Enjoy some High Trestle Taille or Ditchweed Red while relaxing in a rocking chair overlooking the countryside. Also mark your calendar to attend one of their live music events.

2183 320th Street, Madrid

snushillwine.com

(515) 795-3535

Hours: Wednesday to Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Jasper Winery

Jasper Winery is perhaps one of the best-known wineries in the metro, thanks to its easy access from downtown Des Moines. In 2000, Jean and Paul Groben planted their first grape vines outside of Newton. Their passion project grew into a full-fledged vineyard that expanded to the larger Des Moines location in 2007. Mason Groben, Jasper’s winemaker, upholds a philosophy of “interfering as little as possible in the winemaking process.” Visit the tasting and barrel rooms and get a glimpse into the perfected production for yourself. You may want to plan your visit to coincide with their free summer concert series, which offers free live music every Thursday evening during the summer.

2400 George Flagg Parkway, Des Moines

jasperwinery.com

(515) 282-9463

Hours: Monday to Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday 1 p.m.-5 p.m.

Covered Bridges Winery

From April to October, the Covered Bridges wine is poured plentifully and the joy is infectious when visiting the operation owned by longtime friends, Kevin and Jean Fifo and Kevin and Rose Boyle. The winery started out in the Fifos’ basement, where Kevin first began experimenting with winemaking. As time went on, land was acquired and the first grapes were planted in 2004. The winery is now growing even more, with the construction of a production facility and an official tasting room set for completion this year, located north of Winterset on Highway 169 and 1170th Trail. Covered Bridges offers a wide variety of red, white and rose wines. The owners are happy to suggest pairings like the Holliwell Bridge white paired with chicken or the Rattlesnake Red (winner of the best red wine award at the All Iowa Wine Festival in 2013) paired with chili or chops.

Refer to the winery’s website for directions—Don’t use GPS to find the location.

coveredbridgeswinery.com

(515) 729-9463

Hours: April to October, Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Madison County Winery

Make Madison County Winery the main event of your next day trip to the famous covered bridges. Their patio, complete with a fire pit, is the perfect locale for sweet summery sips like Summer Blonde, Lollipop, and Strawberry Blonde. Or perhaps rent out the wooden pergola to enjoy an evening of live music with your friends while sipping a dry white, like Vignoles or the fortified red blend, Phat Man. Even when it comes to small bites, Madison County Winery keeps it in the Iowan family. Choose from milk or dark chocolate from Pella’s VanVeen Chocolate or a cheese plate made from Maytag Farms, Frisian Farms or Milton Creamery.

3021 St. Charles Road, St. Charles

madisoncountywinery.com

(641) 396-2220

Hours: Tasting room and summer hours: Monday to Friday 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday 11a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday 12 p.m.-5 p.m. You can also schedule a group wine tasting.

Two Saints Winery

Sunday afternoons never sounded so sweet: Live music from 2-5 p.m. through the end of September, complete with a bottle made from the 10 acres of grapes at Two Saints Winery. Relish the Iowa-grown grapes made into wines like the semi-dry The Greatful Red and the sweet white Deux Caniches Blancs in the inviting, geothermal heated/cooled tasting room or on the summer-friendly wraparound porch. Located in Warren County, the family-owned Two Saints Winery has thrived since the planting of vines in 2006. The rows of varietals provide picturesque acres to walk about before settling in for a five-wine flight.

15010 20th Avenue, St. Charles

twosaintswinery.com

(641) 396-2102

Hours: Tuesday to Friday 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday 12 p.m.-5 p.m.

Summerset Winery

Summerset has won a number of awards and holds the title of being one of the first estate wineries in Iowa. But one of its biggest selling points is the staff that break down potentially complicated wine terminology and help you pick a pour from their 23 different wines (like the popular Caba Moch and Harvest White) without an ounce of arrogance. The smiling golden sun on the label of each well-crafted wine from this Indianola winery is a metaphor. Joyful, sunny and carefree…that’s how it feels to drink a glass on the lawn while the Sunday Tunes music fills the evenings through October. Be sure to make a (required) reservation for the formal tasting and cellar tour; the ticket price of $20 gets you a sampling of six sensational wines, a cheese plate and a branded wine glass. You can also book a night or weekend at The Inn—a luxurious home for rent that sleeps up to 18 people.

15101 Fairfax Street, Indianola

summersetwine.com

(515) 961-3545

Hours: Monday by appointment only; Tuesday through Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Formal tour/tastings Tuesday through Friday 1 p.m. & 4 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 12 p.m.

Annelise Winery

A visit to Annelise Winery’s tasting room is a beautiful culmination of the labor and love that goes into crafting wines, like the sweet white Masquerade and the robust red Iowa St. Croix. There are 15 acres of vines, supporting 17 different types of grapes between two growing locations. The family-owned vineyard grew out of the first grapes planted in 1997, and the winery is conveniently located across from the Indianola balloon field. Plus, the recently remodeled barn on the property can host up to 120 people for weddings, parties and private events.

15110 Highway 92, Indianola

annelisewinery.com

(515) 229-1299

Hours: April 1 to January 3, Wednesday through Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Monday and Tuesday by appointment; January 4 to March 31, Thursday through Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Dale Valley Vineyard & Winery

Drinking unique wines—like the rhubarb Recess or the smooth, citrusy White Gold—at Dale Valley also offers the opportunity to experience a piece of interesting Iowan history. A great, great, great, great grandfather of owner Tracy Mahlstadt was a key commerce creator in the area through the construction of a mill and goods store. He also made the operation of a one-room schoolhouse possible for the small town back in the 1800s. That same schoolhouse is now home to the intimate, friendly tasting room and gift shop. Yes, this is your chance to drink at school! Be sure to visit and share a bottle on the deck before October 1, which will mark the last day (ever) for the winery, which opened in 2007.

3097 285th Street, Stuart

(515) 523-2199

Hours: Wednesday through Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday 12 a.m.-6 p.m.

dalevalleyvineyard.com

Top 10 Outdoor Dining Spots in West Des Moines / Waukee

July 12, 2016 by admin

With warmer temperatures, there is nothing quite like dining al fresco. Believe it or not, West Des Moines / Waukee has a wide variety of outdoor dining experiences for you to choose from.

Here is our list of Top 10 restaurants featuring patios, rooftops and picnic tables!

Barn Town Brewing

9500 University Ave.
West Des Moines, IA 50265
515-978-6767
Website | Facebook

Barn Town Brewing is a brewpub serving up from-scratch comfort food and craft beer.

Global Brew Tap House

9500 University Ave., Suite 1118
West Des Moines, IA 50265
515-264-2903
Website | Facebook

Global Brew Tap House is home to a community of craft beer lovers, 50 beers on tap and approximately 200 bottled beers from around the world.

Gilroy’s Kitchen + Pub + Patio

1238 8th Street
West Des Moines, IA 50265
515-809-1727
Website | Facebook

Gilroys’s Kitchen + Pub + Patio is known for it’s take on “Stylish American Comfort Food” that can’t be found anywhere else. Coupled with it’s experienced bar staff and one of a kind patio.

Gusto Pizza Co.

8950 University Ave. Suite 105
West Des Moines, IA 50266
515-216-2198
Website | Facebook

Gusto Pizza Co. offer unique hand-crafted pizzas and sandwiches, for a reasonable price.

Granite City Food & Brewery

12801 University Ave.
Clive, Iowa 50325
515-224-1300
Website | Facebook

Granite City Food & Brewery is a national restaurant chain, featuring a full made-from-scratch menu sure to please any tastes. However, the on-site brewery with handcrafted brews is what sets it apart from most national chains.

Wellman’s Pub and Rooftop

597 Market Street
West Des Moines, Iowa
515-222-1100
Website | Facebook

Technically not a patio, but a rooftop! Wellman’s Pub and Rooftop is one of “the” spots to watch the game and grab anything from brunch to after dinner drinks.

Saints Pub & Patio

87 NE Carefree Ln
Waukee, IA 50263
515-216-1654
Website | Facebook

Saints Pub & Patio is a great place to grab a burger and watch the big game, with domestic pints and a large selection of traditional bar food.

Wasabi

9500 University Ave #2101
West Des Moines, IA 50266
515-987-6103
Facebook

Wasabi has been a long time coming and worth the wait, bringing Asian fusion with stylish presentation to West Des Moines. Their outdoor dining space is a perfect place to enjoy that California Roll you’ve been craving lately.

Taco Hangover

265 50th Street
West Des Moines, IA 50265
515-440-4703

Website | Facebook

Taco Hangover offers authentic street food along with killer American favorites in an urban party bar atmosphere.

Mickey’s Irish Pub

50 SE Laurel St
Waukee, IA 50263
515-987-9604
Website | Facebook

Energetic Irish-themed bar offering pub grub, drink specials, pool & more in a casual atmosphere.

Now, who is craving a hot apple cider and/or caramel apple right about now? Check out one of these locally-owned and operated apple orchards today and get a pickin’!

The Lunch Box // YumBox Lunch

The Water Bottle // Contigo

The Snack Bag // Itzy Ritzy

The Ice Pack // Kids Konserve

The Utensils // Pottery Barn Kids

The Insulated Cup // Skip*Hop

What are your lunchbox essentials? Have any tips or tricks to make school lunches easier and more efficient?

Do you like salmon? It’s incredibly versatile—it can be served as an appetizer, a dinner entrée, in pasta, or on a salad. I’d like to share with you an easy and tasty salmon recipe that’s not only unique, but makes a beautiful presentation for guests.

Jen Kerley has had a passion for health for many years, but her biggest inspiration as a health teacher at Prairieview School is seeing her students grow in their learning.

Waukee Trailhead Public Art Committee Secures $1.1 Million for “Waukee Railroad Pergola”

Any Iowa wine aficionado will assure you that you don’t have to book a trip to Napa or Sonoma to taste great wine straight from the vine.

With warmer temperatures, there is nothing quite like dining al fresco. Believe it or not, West Des Moines / Waukee has a wide variety of outdoor dining experiences for you to choose from.

Barn Town Brewing

Global Brew Tap House

Gilroy’s Kitchen + Pub + Patio

Gusto Pizza Co.

Granite City Food & Brewery

Wellman’s Pub and Rooftop

Saints Pub & Patio

Wasabi

Taco Hangover

Mickey’s Irish Pub

Your turn. You tell us, what’s your favorite outdoor dining spot in West Des Moines / Waukee?