Making Traditional Italian a Des Moines Tradition
At Baratta's, we take pride in being a Des Moines staple for over 50 years. Our story began in the early 1920s when Antonio Baratta, his wife Filomena, and their children emigrated to the U.S. from the Italian village of Scala Coeli in the region of Calabria. After operating a successful tavern in downtown Des Moines for many years, Antonio and Filomena purchased the house and commercial building located at the corner of South Union and Kirkwood, which eventually became the Baratta's restaurant we know and love today!
Our History
The history of Baratta's dates back to the early 1920s, and since then, we've been a family operation from the beginning. Antonio ran the grocery store in the small commercial building next to the home until the late 1960s when his son Charlie "Cat" Baratta and his wife Frances took over the business. After Antonio passed away in 1972, Charlie and Frances converted the store to Baratta's Trattoria. It was a family operation from the beginning with Antonio's other children Mike, John, Frances, and their spouses being involved at one time or another.
Our Services
Today, we offer a wide range of services to cater to your needs. From our Carryout Specials to our Catering Services, we've got you covered. Our catering services include Wedding & Formal Events, In-House Events, and Large-Group Catering Delivery. We also have a Cafe Baratta's location in the East Village, where we serve the same delicious cuisine. Whether you're looking to host an event, grab a quick bite, or simply enjoy a traditional Italian dinner, we've got the perfect solution for you.
Our Commitment
At Baratta's, we're committed to serving traditional Italian cuisine with an American twist. We're passionate about providing exceptional service, delicious food, and a warm atmosphere that makes you feel like you're home. Our goal is to make every occasion special, whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or just a regular Tuesday. We strive to maintain the charm of the original shop by serving classic Italian specialties daily, including lasagna al forno, steak deburgo, and cannolis.
Our Values
At Baratta's, we value tradition, family, and community. We believe that food has the power to bring people together, and that's why we're dedicated to serving the best Italian-American cuisine in Des Moines. We're proud to be a part of this community, and we look forward to serving you!
Overview of Baratta's Italian Restaurant
Food Quality and Variety
The majority of reviewers praised Baratta's for its delicious and varied Italian dishes, including chicken Alfredo, manicotti, pannine, pasta salad, spinach artichoke dip, and bruschetta. Many reviewers highlighted the generous portion sizes and reasonable prices. Some reviewers mentioned that the menu offered a good variety of choices, including vegan options.
Service and Ambiance
Several reviewers complimented the efficient and pleasant service at Baratta's, with some mentioning that the waitstaff was attentive and friendly. The restaurant's unique setup, with multiple levels and rooms, was noted by some reviewers, who found it charming but also potentially confusing. The view of downtown Des Moines from the restaurant was also a highlight for some reviewers.
Negative Comments
Some reviewers were disappointed with their experiences at Baratta's, citing bland or cold food, limited menu options, and a confusing layout. One reviewer specifically mentioned that the vegan pasta dish was underwhelming.
Special Occasions and Large Groups
Baratta's was praised by several reviewers for its ability to accommodate large groups and special occasions, such as rehearsal dinners and Christmas parties. Reviewers appreciated the restaurant's flexibility and willingness to work with them to create a memorable experience.
