Olympic Flame Restaurant — Restaurant in Des Moines

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If you're looking for a Mediterranean escape that feels more like a homecoming, then look no further than Olympic Flame! This place has been my go-to for Greek delights, and let me tell you, it’s like stepping into a warm embrace from an old friend—if that friend happened to be a master chef with a penchant for fresh ingredients and a killer wine selection!

From the moment you walk in, it’s like Cheers but with olives and tzatziki. The staff knows you by name, and if they don’t, you’ll probably be best friends by the end of your meal. Seriously, there’s no awkward small talk here; it’s all about the chill vibes and delicious food. You might even catch the owner lounging back, sipping on his wine, as he orchestrates the culinary symphony that is your dinner.

Now, let’s get to the food! If you’re hunting for the best steak in town, you absolutely need to try the steak dipper. This dish is a game-changer! Just ask the chef to whip up his best steak, and you won’t be disappointed. It’s juicy, flavorful, and will have you singing its praises all the way home.

The overall food at Olympic Flame is always fresh and delicious, making it one of my favorite spots for Mediterranean and Greek cuisine in Des Moines. The ambiance is perfect too, with high ceilings that give you that Greek Caesar palace vibe—minus the toga and the need to know how to throw a javelin. It’s an atmosphere that invites you to sit back, relax, and enjoy every delicious bite.

Overall, Olympic Flame is a Des Moines staple that serves up Mediterranean magic with a side of friendship. If you’re looking for a place that feels like home but also has the culinary skills to impress your taste buds, this is it. Go grab a seat, order some food, and prepare to fall in love—just don’t forget to invite me to your taste...

Great food and great experience. Was a bit hesitant to come since I never tried it before. When we sat down and heard there was only one chef and that the food could take up to an hour was even more unsure. But the food was amazing. We were started off with pita bread and it was insanely delicious. The soup they served along with was amazing. It was like a zesty chicken noodle soup, and coming from a person who does really enjoy soup that is a big compliment. The salad wasn’t my favorite because I don’t enjoy vinegar. Next we were served this special cheese dish where they lit it on fire, was amazing to see and tasted great. They followed with lamb and fried zucchini. The lamb was so good. By the time they brought out our food I was so stuffed I could barley get any bites. The spinach filled pastry that came with the gyro was delectable. For the price we paid the amount of food we got was amazing.

The service was great, the place is small and wasn’t crowded when we went. The decorations were nice with a focus on blue and other Greek inspired decor. Our server was very sweet and helpful. She explained the history of the place and was very accommodating and understanding. As well as the waiter-in-training. All around great service...

When I lived in Des Moines, The Olympic Flame was my favorite go-to restaurant. Angelo ran this place alongside his brother, before his brother passed away. Angelo is super friendly and he brings the feel of Greece to you right as you walk through the doors. Their freshly baked bread is right at your table before you even order, and the food is just beyond fantastic! Generous portions for your money, and be prepared when he brings out the saganaki, you can tell Angelo loves bringing out his star appetizer, fried kasseri (salted) cheese , poured on with a shot of rum, and lit au flambé right at your table (he even loves it when you say "Opa!" when he lights the saganaki!), topped with a squeeze of fresh lemon, it is the perfect starter for anything you have here. My go-to orders, he knew what I wanted as soon as he saw me walk in the doors, Saganaki, small greek salad (freshly made and topped with feta cheese), Gyro with his fries, and RC for my drink. Once he knows your regular orders, he will get it started before you even sit down and place the order yourself! Guy Fieri really needs to come here for his Diners Drive-ins and Dives tour, this place is a true hole in the wall, and East Village's...