Ken's

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(9)

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215 E 3rd St Ste 101
Des Moines, IA 50309

Ken's is a not-so-secret speakeasy located in Des Moines, IA, offering a relaxed and vintage atmosphere inspired by the 1920s. With its unique layout incorporating pieces from Iowa's history, such as an auditorium stage from Haverhill High School and repurposed elevator doors from the Equitable Building, Ken's provides a speakeasy-style setting where guests can enjoy classic Prohibition cocktails, craft beer, wine, and an extensive whiskey list while listening to jazz, swing, blues, ragtime, and vintage covers.

Named after the notorious bootlegger Kenneth Sonderleiter, Ken's pays homage to Des Moines' history of bootlegging during the 1920s. Sonderleiter, known as the society bootlegger and rum kingpin, was involved in the storage, transportation, and sale of whiskey, alcohol, and beer, including Templeton Rye. After facing legal troubles and having his citizenship revoked, Sonderleiter was later granted a Presidential Pardon by Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1942. Today, Ken's offers a selection of themed drinks, including the Presidential Pardon Martini, as well as a variety of Iowa whiskeys, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in the city's intriguing past.

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Reviews

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4.09 reviews
Photo of Luke X.
Luke X.
3/6/2021

Really love the layout! I like the different seating options and how it can really change the ambience from one side of the room to the other. The service was good. The staff know what they're...

Photo of Tippy P.
Tippy P.
7/23/2024

This bar is also in the basement, across from the black sheep. The lighting is better, pretty big with lots of seating options. They offer food however the kitchen was already closed. This is a...

Photo of Michael P.
Michael P.
8/5/2023

Tried this place based on a Google search. As a bourbon fan, I was a bit disappointed in Ken's . The service was excellent, food good, but selection not quite what I expected. Prices are...

Photo of Heidi H.
Heidi H.
1/13/2023

We didn't plan a head for dinner before an event at Wells Fargo arena. We found Ken's, we walked right down the steps and got a table right away. The bartender/waiter made us delightful...

Photo of Brandie A.
Brandie A.
9/10/2022

Check out the speakeasy downstairs. The offer a great variety of drinks and friendly bartenders.

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