Jesse's Embers has changed ownership only three times since opening in 1963. So, how's it doing since the newest owner took over this past spring? You know I'll tell you!
Thank you so much for the very generous words, Wini! Jesse's Embers was actually on my original Eater Essentials list, but when we revised this, my editor asked for a couple fewer steak spots and more global cuisines. I agree that it's an OG that's definitely still worth a visit—especially for the hospitality!
I have been to Jesse's only once. We were invited to watch a relative feed his brother who had heart disease the steak cooked in butter, with butter rolls. Both had serious heart issues, the one was a prominent doctor . Anyway, you are right it is a cozy place.
I order ribeye when I have steak, I like it well done. Most places have no problem cooking it to that temperature and not burn it like an offering to a Greek god. It takes skill. If a place says no to well done, then it is time for me to put an egg in my shoe and beat it, be like a bird and get the flock out of there. If the chef or cook, can't do that I question their ability at all. To serve warm salads with warm dressing, it is another indication that the owner needs a real talk to the staff before Inspections and Appeals makes a visit and cites them.
It is wonderful to see that Jesse's remains afloat, so to speak while so many places have closed,like George the Chili King, still empty so long after his passing.
My daughter Grace was a host at Jesse’s her senior year in high school and freshman year in college (2015-2018). Dave and I were frequent customers during that time period and, if the tiny dining room was full (which often was the case), we enjoyed the camaraderie of the cozy bar, with Joe Scarpino serving the drinks. I’m looking forward to adding more Jesse’s memories to our DSM dining experiences. My mouth is watering just thinking of those delicious steaks.
That was a memory enhancer. I ate only one time at the Embers in 1976. I had no idea it was Old Guard. Now I understand the recommendations to eat at the Embers 45 years ago. We lived on 37th Street East of Roosevelt High, new to town. I recall the tight seating arrangement, the okay rib eyes, the salad as you described it, and the small water glasses. So, for us, new to Des Moines, it was only OK. If I went back today, having been gone from DM 45 years, I would be more inclined to just 'experience it', instead of thinking 'Why didn't we go to the Bonanza Steak House. Thanks for this review. Old has its pluses, for sure.
Sitting at the bar when the news of the Reagan’s shooting broke. So at like one-thirty in the afternoon, will all the skirts and suits, it was time for the real estate luminary at my elbow’s next “double bubble.”
I've missed Jesse's since moving out of the neighborhood (and state), and was heartbroken when I thought they'd surely close. I'm so glad they've been purchased AND are continuing to offer delicious steaks! We'll be sure to stop in when we are next in town--thank you for the review!
There's a certain kind of comfort in having "your places" in a city. They're more than just restaurants; they're destinations, rituals. When I came back to Des Moines, I had a routine, and George the Chili King and The Embers were central to it. It’s a powerful connection, representing two pillars of the city's dining soul. Geroge's was with friends; the Ember's was with my dad.
Yes! Noah's was "our place" for my sister's family when visiting my mom and us here in DSM.
Interestingly, when Mom died, after we made funeral arrangements, my sister and I were drawn to Jesse's Embers that night. I'm not sure, but one matterful thing was this: my sister knew the owner Marty Scarpino, from high school. It wasn't like we felt the need to tell him of our loss, but there was, I think, a kind of need to be known and seen and fed and welcomed by someone who'd known us much of our lives. It was truly the place to be, and I'll always remember it as a very comforting meal.
Jesse’s Embers is one of our long time favs. Thank you for putting another visit back on the radar, Wini.
Thank you so much for the very generous words, Wini! Jesse's Embers was actually on my original Eater Essentials list, but when we revised this, my editor asked for a couple fewer steak spots and more global cuisines. I agree that it's an OG that's definitely still worth a visit—especially for the hospitality!
Thanks for weighing in, Karla!
Those lists are so hard to write. I appreciate all the thought that goes into them (and how hard it is when it comes time to trim them!).
So true, Wini! You definitely know from decades of experience creating inspiring lists!
I have been to Jesse's only once. We were invited to watch a relative feed his brother who had heart disease the steak cooked in butter, with butter rolls. Both had serious heart issues, the one was a prominent doctor . Anyway, you are right it is a cozy place.
I order ribeye when I have steak, I like it well done. Most places have no problem cooking it to that temperature and not burn it like an offering to a Greek god. It takes skill. If a place says no to well done, then it is time for me to put an egg in my shoe and beat it, be like a bird and get the flock out of there. If the chef or cook, can't do that I question their ability at all. To serve warm salads with warm dressing, it is another indication that the owner needs a real talk to the staff before Inspections and Appeals makes a visit and cites them.
It is wonderful to see that Jesse's remains afloat, so to speak while so many places have closed,like George the Chili King, still empty so long after his passing.
Yes, the warm salad gave me pause. I reported on it in hopes that they'll make a change, knowing someone is watching and noticing!
My daughter Grace was a host at Jesse’s her senior year in high school and freshman year in college (2015-2018). Dave and I were frequent customers during that time period and, if the tiny dining room was full (which often was the case), we enjoyed the camaraderie of the cozy bar, with Joe Scarpino serving the drinks. I’m looking forward to adding more Jesse’s memories to our DSM dining experiences. My mouth is watering just thinking of those delicious steaks.
That's so great that your daughter was able to learn from such a pro! And they were lucky to have her, too!
I think the place is still in great hands!
I can relate. Publish long enough and what was once cool is ho-hum, but also it means you “made it” knock on wood
Great comparison! You are totally OG, aren't you!
It's amazing to me that this place is still in business. Glad to hear it's still serving up good food.
steak made me drool
That was a memory enhancer. I ate only one time at the Embers in 1976. I had no idea it was Old Guard. Now I understand the recommendations to eat at the Embers 45 years ago. We lived on 37th Street East of Roosevelt High, new to town. I recall the tight seating arrangement, the okay rib eyes, the salad as you described it, and the small water glasses. So, for us, new to Des Moines, it was only OK. If I went back today, having been gone from DM 45 years, I would be more inclined to just 'experience it', instead of thinking 'Why didn't we go to the Bonanza Steak House. Thanks for this review. Old has its pluses, for sure.
Sitting at the bar when the news of the Reagan’s shooting broke. So at like one-thirty in the afternoon, will all the skirts and suits, it was time for the real estate luminary at my elbow’s next “double bubble.”
I've missed Jesse's since moving out of the neighborhood (and state), and was heartbroken when I thought they'd surely close. I'm so glad they've been purchased AND are continuing to offer delicious steaks! We'll be sure to stop in when we are next in town--thank you for the review!
You nailed it! Going in through the back door is a significant part of the Jesse's experience. I miss having friends around who get it 🙃
There's a certain kind of comfort in having "your places" in a city. They're more than just restaurants; they're destinations, rituals. When I came back to Des Moines, I had a routine, and George the Chili King and The Embers were central to it. It’s a powerful connection, representing two pillars of the city's dining soul. Geroge's was with friends; the Ember's was with my dad.
Yes! Noah's was "our place" for my sister's family when visiting my mom and us here in DSM.
Interestingly, when Mom died, after we made funeral arrangements, my sister and I were drawn to Jesse's Embers that night. I'm not sure, but one matterful thing was this: my sister knew the owner Marty Scarpino, from high school. It wasn't like we felt the need to tell him of our loss, but there was, I think, a kind of need to be known and seen and fed and welcomed by someone who'd known us much of our lives. It was truly the place to be, and I'll always remember it as a very comforting meal.