Carl's Place — Restaurant in Des Moines

Was having a fabulous night in Des Moines so asked people which bar continues to be open and was recommended this place. It is a dive but the patrons all seemed cool. We played darts (with broken darts) and pool, with a graffitied table but loved every minute. But like another review said the bartender was not nice. Not only a jerk to someone asking for a bandaid, just throwing the whole first aid kit at her and saying “good luck”. She also sold us a $6 bud light at last call which was just minutes before closing. We thought we had more time but “bar time” was 10 min earlier and we were not aware. As we sat at the bar trying to finish the beer and asking about the time difference she started doing that sassy head shake “not my rules, why do you think I said last call”. Etc. THEN SHE GRABBED THE HALF DRANK CAN OOUT OF OUR MY DATES HAND AND CRUSHED IT. Wow! Would totally go again if she wasn’t behind the bar but also wish we could get...

Local dive bars have a special place in my heart. This one was decent. We came in to watch a basketball game and sat at the bar. Their beer selection is extensive and also listed on Untappd. Kind of cool to see your name on the screen when you check a beer in. You don't see that at many places. It's an interesting form of customer appreciation. The bartenders working Friday night were really welcoming and quick to get our orders. They didn't hover and still got us new beers when they noticed us getting close to the bottom of the glass. Music is loud, TV is loud, but that's what we were going for. You can tell that this is a neighborhood favorite. Didn't get to play any of the games but everyone looked like they were having a good time. I did not go to the bathroom so I can't comment on...

Carl's place is a nice, friendly, what some would consider a "dive bar"! I guess depending on what one's definition of a "dive bar" is, it could be considered to fit that lable! Personally, I know it as a typical, old school, friendly, "Cheers" type neighborhood bar, that has been "Carl's Place" as far back as my memory allows, from childhood! Bartenders are friendly, professional, with a zero tolerance for any ignorant B.S.! They have a fantastic open jam every Tuesday night from 7-11pm, hosted by "Sanchez Bell" & a his house band. This jam draws a wide variety of several greatly gifted local musicians, as well as live music fans. Can't go wrong with great drinks, reasonable prices, great staff, great live music, & friendly, fun...