Akebono 515, Des Moines, IA

Rating:

 4.7

Cost:

$20 – $30

Sleek, contemporary restaurant & bar offering sushi, cooked Japanese dishes & cocktails.

Akebono 515

Discover Akebono 515 in Des Moines, IA

Akebono 515 in Des Moines, IA, stands out as a modern Japanese restaurant blending fresh sushi options with a welcoming atmosphere perfect for casual dining. This spot offers an array of sushi rolls, sake selections, and bento boxes, making it a go-to choice for those seeking authentic Japanese flavors in a relaxed setting. With happy hour specials and a dedicated sushi bar, it's ideal for enjoying top-rated dishes that highlight fresh ingredients and creative presentations. The restaurant also features accessible entrances and seating, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors, while its downtown location adds to the convenience for anyone searching for quality sushi restaurants nearby.

Summarized by AI using the Grok-3-Mini model.

What Visitors Are Raving About

Folks who visit Akebono 515 often praise the flavorful sushi rolls and appetizers like dumplings, noting how the menu strikes a great balance of taste and affordability. Many highlight the friendly service and lively vibe, which make dining out feel welcoming and enjoyable, especially during busy evenings. Reviewers frequently mention standout dishes that bring a bit of heat or unique twists, helping it stand out as one of the best sushi spots in the area for groups or casual meals. Overall, the clean, modern setting and quick service keep the experience positive, encouraging repeat visits for anyone exploring top-rated Japanese places nearby.

Summarized by AI using the Grok-3-Mini model.

Address & Phone

Downtown Des Moines
215 10th St Suite 120
Des Moines, IA 50309
(515) 244-5972

Wheelchair Accessiblility

Parking:Entrance:Restroom:Seating:

Parking Options

Paid street parking:

Payment Options

Accepts credit cards:Accepts debit cards:Accepts nfc:

Reviews

  • Sarah Beth  5

    Well, me being me, I drove around the block 3 times before I finally found it! Hint, it's on the ground floor, corner of 10th & Mulberry and the signs are kinda hard to see. Once I found them, it was a great experience! Very cool atmosphere. We were there for a late lunch around 2:30 so I can only imagine what it looks like for dinner! The appetizers were fast, sushi was perfect, table service was awesome, and dessert was sinful! Order the fried chocolate & you won't be disappointed! We'll definitely be back! Thanks for such a wonderful experience!

  • Michaela Hansen  5

    We loved this place so much we had to come back the next day! My boyfriend and I were staying nearby and had to try this place. All the employees were very friendly and helpful. You feel like you are friends when you walk in. We didn't wait long to be seated the first time but I recommend a reservation on Saturday nights. The menu has a great selection of food. We loved everything we had. We started with dumplings, steamed is the best. Then we had a few rolls. The iowa roll is different and worth a try. The Malibu crunch was perfect if you like your sushi fried. Their specialty roll for the weekend The. Best. With smoked salmon. The nonsense roll is great if you like a little heat. And you have to try the surf and turf roll too! Our drinks were well made and reasonably priced. The staff makes you feel valued and have a fun attitude. We will be back!!

  • Maribel Diaz  5

    I enjoyed my dinner. Thank you, Laura, the bartender who served me! The price was very reasonable. I stayed at the hotel across the street, this place was very convenient.

  • Yeye  5

    This was the best meal I’ve had in a very, very long time. I got the beef yakisoba. The spices used were unique compared to similar yakisoba dishes I’ve had, but they worked. They seemed familiar but I couldn’t quite identify them. Nutmeg? Clove? Very well balanced. It paired very well with the plum wine. Best Asian restaurant I’ve been to in Iowa. My new favorite restaurant in the area. Staff were great and I hope you pay your chefs well. Very busy, but service was fast. Bravo! 6/5 stars and I’m picky. Had everything right tonight. Will recommend to friends.

  • Annie Rehmer  5

    What a special gem! Clean and modern hip atmosphere. Great music and amazing food. We got the crab puffs, maki rolls, miso soup, and ginger salad! 12/10 on every single one! Light and fresh and large maki rolls make it worth the slightly higher price. The crab puffs are similar to crab Rangoon but with much less fried breading—highly recommend. Also amazing attentive service—quick to seat us, take our orders, and bring out our food! Thank you for the amazing experience!