The negative review on here compelled me to give a different perspective. I think Simon's J Benjamin's is absolutely awesome! Simon is great and goes above the call of duty. The first time we came in my daughter ordered a root beer. Simon was taking our order and he gave no indication there was a problem with it. He finished taking our order and left. A few minutes later a breathless Simon reappeared with a 20 oz root beer. They don't serve root beer so he had run across the street to the Kum and Go and bought her one. That is service!! Besides that the food is great, especially the artichoke dip. When I don't have time to eat in house I sometimes order the artichoke dip to go. When I do I have time to stay I really enjoy watching the saltwater fish. Also, I think I have gotten a free piece of cake every time I have eaten in house. I don't drink, but my friends tell me the wine list is fabulous. Really, what is not to love?
Me and my wife had dinner here tonight and it was great. We had been recommend this place by some friends and decided to try it out. It was small but nice I had the scallops and they were seared perfectly my wife had the tenderloin and she enjoyed it. The artichoke dip was good and we will be back. Great spot to get away very cozy and romantic.
Wow!. What a great experience! Being a first time customer, I was really amazed!! The food was great, no doubt about that! The owner treated his staff just as friendly as his customers. Simon stopped by our table like we were old friends, a very "midwest" thing to do (even came outside when we were walking away to get our names...something you never see anymore). The live jazz music was a nice treat too :) My only dislike was how dim the lights were, but my husband said "it set the mood for a romantic night out." Over all, it was my favorite place we have dined out to while being new to the Des Moines area. I'd suggest this for anyone!
I would of taken a picture of my cordon bleu but I devoured it. The food was juicy and full of flavor. My vegetable side was asparagus and it was just perfect. I have every Intention of returning.
One of the best hidden jem's in the city. The food and service are phenominal and the price makes you want to dine frequently. When you walk in you immediately feel like you are in a local, welcoming environment and not another big chain restaurant.
Great Food, Friendly Service. This quaint and quiet place is a small corner restaurant that one might easily pass right by. However, should one take the time to stop in, they will be pleasantly surprised by the friendly staff and stunning food. This restaurant certainly proves that bigger isn't necessarily better.
Great Food and Owner. Our friends recently recommended this restaurant. The restaurant is small but it has the best pizza and friendliest wait staff of any restaurant in Des Moines. The owner comes to every table to say hello and sit and talk with you about your dinner to come. Simon must be 28 years old but watching how he works his restaurant and interacts with guest you would think he has been doing it for thirty years.
Love it!. J Benjamin's is now called Simons. My husband and I have tried every item on the menu. The steak Deburgo is amazing along with the pork deburgo. The pizza's are very good and creative. The owner Simon is a very gracious host. He makes sure everyone is greeted
and seated. Friday and Saturdays you will find live jazz music very softly for eating and talking. Small place but great for any occasion. Would recommend anytime.
Love,Love, Love J Benjamins!! Delicious food, great service (very nice people!) and bonus- they have a nice array of fish in the fish tank. My kids love it! 5 stars! Yum!
Make a reservation
Order online
Find the best restaurant in Des Moines
An error has occurred! Please try again in a few minutes