Monday 3rd of June 2013 12:43:13 PM

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We rolled into town around 11:20 on Sunday, with minimal traffic or fuss. The car's handy GPS delivered us to the large old warehouse building that is home to Exile Brewing. A huge Lady Liberty crown adorns the back corner of the building while a large rusted metal sign bearing the brewery's name looms above the front doors. Inside the foyer is a very pretty mural with the Exile logo: Liberty's torch surrounded by flames. To the left is a second seating/event room with a smaller bar, and to the right is the main bar and main dining area. The entire place has been here less than 6 months and everything seems new and shiny. The tables are massive blocks of solid wood. The drink menu comes encased in covers made of verdigris coated copper stamped with the logo...how do these not wander off? Our server was very good and really knew his stuff when it came to describing the beers and styles. We were able to get all of the beers by sharing two samplers. Almost all were classic German style lagers and spot on for style. There was also an oatmeal stout just to be different. All the beers are named after women: which is cool, but actually makes it hard to remember which beer was which. The food we had while here was really tasty and quick. My burger was served on a soft pretzel bun with multiple cheeses and was done perfectly. The giant plate of Parmesan herbed fries with truffled dipping sauce were out of this world. For such a young place, Exile is doing everything right. Great food, helpful staff, and upscale feel, and very well done beers. If there is a big enough desire for craft beers in Des Moines I think these folks will make it!