The Bartender's Handshake
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I couldn't love this place more. The drinks are phenomenal. No regular bartenders here, the mixologists really know what they are doing. I asked for a classic drink that wasn't on the menu and they didn't even hesitate. Boom, "Here you go! ". The atmosphere is very nostalgic. I grew up around the corner. So being in the back patio area with all the old school lawn furniture and vintage cups AND the location, feels very comforting. Add an awesome drink, it's perfect. I highly recommend if you're looking for a high-end (but not overly priced) drink with friends, or a quiet corner with a date. You won't be sorry.
Caasi HeckmanCaasi Heckman
00
I absolutely love The Bartender's Handshake. Extremely good and interesting drinks at prices lower than most. They've also started small "tapas" style plates which they rotate frequently. Pictured is the best hummus I've ever had! The location is small and intimate, but clean and does not feel cramped. Lighting is dim and styling is retro. They have a back patio, which seemed decently sized, but sadly it was too cold to enjoy. I'd never think twice about coming here!
Mike HurtMike Hurt
00
I'm hesitant to tell you how amazing Bartender's Handshake is because I don't want word to get out, but here goes... it's INCREDIBLE. The food is great but the cocktails are really the star of the show. We sampled several before we got to the Karate Kick and now I can't wait to go have it again. Very well balanced with a bit of a kick but not so hot you have to sip it gently for an hour. One of the best cocktails I've had recently and I do this a lot. :-)
Janis TaylorJanis Taylor
00
Quaint little out of the way bar. Staff was great and the drink selection is great for a change of pace from most place in DSM. And if you're having a hard time deciding, I'll recommended going with the "We'll Take It From Here". They ask you a couple of preferential questions and make you something on the fly. I opted for Mezcal and spicy (pictured). I can't remember everything in it, but it was great.
Damian HoukDamian Houk
00
Innovative cocktail bar using some high quality ingredients most people aren't familiar with. I had the Handshake Trio with a Jamaro (Jameson + House Amaro), a Choke and Smoke (Cynar + Mezcal) and a G.D.T. (Flor de Cana Silver Rum, Lime + sugar). And a hip(ster) soundtrack that I'm listening to outside on the cover patio. Dave the owner is friendly and likes to educate people on Amari.
Carl ZCarl Z
00
Visited here with a friend and it was great! Every drink on the menu sounded like something I wanted to try (even the mocktails were sophisticated!) One drink option I loved was "We'll take it from here". Normally when I ask a bartender to surprise me I get...a screwdriver 😁The server asked me a couple questions and brought back a tasty, unique drink. Definitely going back!
Laura Beth Vander PloegLaura Beth Vander Ploeg
00
Nearby Attractions Of The Bartender's Handshake
Price Chopper
Salisbury House & Gardens
Enchanted Mystical Boutique
Techne Salon

Price Chopper
3.9
(609)Click for details

Salisbury House & Gardens
4.7
(272)Click for details

Enchanted Mystical Boutique
4.8
(54)Click for details

Techne Salon
4.9
(35)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of The Bartender's Handshake
Eatery A
Manhattan Deli
The Station On Ingersoll
Cheese Bar
Palmer's Deli & Market
Wellman's Pub
Jesse's Embers
Ted's Coney Island
Harbinger
Crème

Eatery A
4.5
(980)Click for details

Manhattan Deli
4.7
(595)Click for details

The Station On Ingersoll
4.7
(533)Click for details

Cheese Bar
4.6
(451)Click for details
Basic Info
Address
3615 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312
Map
Phone
(515) 630-3008
Call
Website
thebartendershandshake.com
Visit
Reviews
Overview
4.7
(186 reviews)
Ratings & Description
attractions: Price Chopper, Salisbury House & Gardens, Enchanted Mystical Boutique, Techne Salon, restaurants: Eatery A, Manhattan Deli, The Station On Ingersoll, Cheese Bar, Palmer's Deli & Market, Wellman's Pub, Jesse's Embers, Ted's Coney Island, Harbinger, Crème
