Roots95 Craft Kitchen & Bar

Flatbreads are among the offerings at Roots95.

From food-truck fare to a fusion of tempting bites, Roots95 in Johnston is a must-visit for foodies.

Roots95 Craft Kitchen & Bar is located at 8705 Chambery Blvd. in the previous Wasabi location. The owner, Arturo Mora, named the place Roots95 after he immigrated to the U.S. in 1995. He established the Flame Group, which includes Flame the Taqueria, food trucks and catering.

Mora’s latest venture is a fusion of flavors, affordable price points and fresh cocktails — just what you need for a date night or gathering of friends or family.

The place, with its simple gray, black and wood décor, along with cement floors and exposed ceilings, sets the stage for a relaxing vibe. Patrons sit leisurely in the roomy booths and comfy chairs. Placed on the table are real oil-type candles (not the battery-operated plastic kind), creating a supper-club charm. With only two televisions in the bar area and unobtrusive background music, the big-city-type atmosphere allows for easy conversations. 

Bang bang shrimp is one of the small plates offered.

Arriving at happy hour is a smart move. You can try small-plate options and cocktail specials at a discount. Happy hour is 4-6 p.m., Sunday through Friday. Since some Des Moines eateries rarely offer Friday happy hour, put this one on your happy list.

Choose from six different small plates for just $8 (regularly priced $12-$14) during happy hour. These tasty numbers included bang bang shrimp with panko-encrusted shrimp and orange bang bang sauce. The chicken dumplings included ginger, scallions — steamed and panfried — served with ponzu sauce. 

The rest of the menu includes flatbreads, handhelds, entrees, salads, pasta, steaks and chops. Prices start at $14, with the priciest item $31 for a 14-ounce grilled ribeye with mashed potatoes and asparagus. Ingredients are fresh, and entrees often include a side.

The Thai pasta includes jumbo shrimp, ginger garlic and chili flakes with julienned vegetables, tossed with a sweet peanut soy sauce for $22. A Wagyu burger served with Roots95 sauce and fries is $19. The mango shrimp tacos include grilled shrimp with Caribbean mango pineapple salsa with crema, served on a flour tortilla for $14.

Roots95 Craft Kitchen & Bar
8705 Chambery Blvd., Suite 700, Johnston

You’ll need something to wash it all down. Happy hour drinks include $5 tap beer and $6 select wines. The pink lady with vodka, pomegranate juice, lemon and simple syrup wasn’t overly sweet. Happy hour price is $8; cost is $12 at other times. Wine lovers can hit the place on Wednesdays for half-off bottles of wine. 

Patio days are nearly over; however, put Roots95 on your patio list. Occasionally, the place offers a “Roots Series,” which pairs cocktails with small bites for a set price. Recent series have sold out, and seating is limited for this popular event.

Looking for a memorable meal with fresh bites and cocktails? Head to Johnston’s Roots95 for the ultimate dining experience. ♦