HiFi Brew Lounge
12/4/2024
At the HiFi Brew Lounge, a wall of records, stacks of albums, a disco ball and photos of musicians might signify a dance supper club where A-list celebrities drink martinis and mingle among humming background music.
But wait. There’s more to the place than its music theme and drinks. A full menu and house-brewed beer await patrons in West Des Moines’ newest joint.
The HiFi Brew Lounge is located at 103 S. 11th St. in Valley Junction. It occupies the old Fox Brewing building. The renovations to the new spot include a remarkable transformation from industrial décor to a supper club vibe.
Owner Justin Berkley hails from a brewery and restaurant background. His staff, brewmaster and chef bring 100 years of experience to HiFi.
Berkley’s inspiration for a classic supper club is high fidelity (HiFi) — a reproduction of sound.
“If you remember the character of the Pier, Gino’s — we want a throwback to the old charm supper clubs,” he explains.
The décor sets the scene: black walls with purple velvet paisley wallpaper, purple barstools and framed black and white photos of concerts and musicians dotting the walls. Bathrooms are purple and black with band posters plastered near the sink.
Two outdoor patios, both upstairs and down, offer fresh-air spots. Inside, the lower level includes a dinner atmosphere with a casual bar. Head upstairs through the wall of record albums for a completely different vibe with a disco ball, sparkling lights and a small stage. Booths and tables encourage gossip and chatter.
A colorful mural by artist and musician Ramona Muse Lambert encompasses an entire upstairs wall. Look closely and try to figure out the music themes depicted in the images. No cheating — but, if needed, there is a reference guide.
Now, for the food. The menu includes a unique mix of social platters — or apps. Entrees, handhelds, greens and a kids menu are offered.
Happy hour, Tuesday through Friday, 3-6 p.m., includes half-off house-brewed beers, fried cheese, corn brulee and the “coldest vodka soda in town.”
This coldest vodka is a mix put in a keg and chilled to 38 degrees. It was refreshing at $7 a glass. Add a house-made syrup for just a buck.
A full bar with domestic beers is offered. But why not choose from more than a half-dozen house-brewed beers for $7? The Brown Eyed Girl is a mild brown malt forward, and the Jagged Little Pils is a crisp and refreshing pilsner.
The brisket BLT consisted of brisket, thick bacon and lettuce on a sour Reuben bread with choice of eight and different sides for $16. Spicy Italian beef, birria grilled cheese and bulgogi sloppy joes go beyond the basic burger.
Social plates run from $12-$13. Disco tots include house beer, cheese-smothered tots, pico de gallo, jalapeño and sour cream.
The next time you’re in West Des Moines, check out the HiFi Brew Lounge, where you’ll discover unique musical memorabilia, appetizing dishes, cocktails and beer. Plus, you never know which celeb you might run into. ♦
