Since this is Midwest Mom & WIFE … let’s talk about an awesome place to check out for date night 🙂
Travis and I were lucky to have someone watch our kiddos Saturday night for Valentine’s Day. We decided we would go downtown and check out the new restaurant RoCA!
They had delicious food, drinks and wine! Travis and I are big wine drinkers so we bought a bottle of Syrah. Our bartender was very knowledgable in wine and drinks. I actually learned a bit about wine while we were there.
We also tried the Smoking Gun cocktail. Travis and I are not big bourbon drinkers, but we were intrigued on how the drink was made! They take an old bourbon bottle that has a little bourbon and maple syrup on the bottom. Then they pump smoke into the bottle. When the cocktail is brought to you, you let the smoke sit and after a few minutes you pour the drink into your cocktail glass. It has a very smokey flavor. It was something new and different!
RoCA is known for their shared plates, boards, and schpreads. I am a huge cheese lover, especially when we are drinking wine! We ordered the Combine Meat & Cheese Board. Oh my goodness, it was perfect! There was goat cheese, blue cheese, pastrami, pickled cucumbers, nuts, and more. It was perfect! We also split the Smoked Mac & Cheese, which was delish also!
RoCA is the perfect date night spot! The atmosphere is fun, the staff is knowledgeable and the food & drinks are delicious!
As always make sure to check out the calendar on the right hand side of the page for more events going on in the area! Have a great weekend!
1. Science Center of Iowa
When: Friday 5 pm – 8 pm
What:TWO great events are going on at the same time!
Family Night: You can build a rocket, travel through outer space, eat some snacks from the cafe, and more! $5
LEGO Build: The Iowa LEGO Users group will discuss the process and engineering behind the SCI LEGO Build. There will also be plenty of LEGO bricks to play with! $5
2. Wells Fargo Arena
When: Friday & Saturday
What: Are you wanting to get out and go to a concert this weekend? You have two opportunities! Pink will be performing Friday night at 8 pm and Keith Urban will be performing Saturday night at 7 pm. Check out Iowa Events Center to get your tickets!
3. Iowa’s Premier Beer, Wine and Food Expo
When: Friday 4 – 10 pm & Saturday 10 am – 8 pm
Where and What: Find a sitter and make it a date night! This event is a great way to try wonderful food from various chefs in the Midwest, and to try beer and wine! Please check out the Iowa’s Premier Beer, Wine and Food Expo’s website for a list of scheduled events, vendors, and to purchase tickets!
4. Holiday Open House
When: Saturday 10 am – 1 pm
Where and What: It’s that time of year! West Glen Town Center is hosting a holiday open house. There is a chance to win a $500.00 gift card and Santa will be available for a FREE family photo! Everyone is encouraged to bring a personal hygiene product that will be donated to Children & Families of Iowa.
5. Disney’s Alice in Wonderland Jr.
When: November 8th – December 1st
Where and What: Today is the opening night for this wonderful show at the Des Moines Playhouse! The show is for ages 5 years and older, so if you think your kiddo can sit, listen and watch a classic, this would be a great family event! Tickets are $17 for adults and seniors, and $13 for students and children. To purchase tickets and for show times check out the Des Moines Playhouse.
6. Infant & Children’s Clothing Swap
When: Saturday 10 am – Noon
Where and What:Little Padded Seats, located in Valley West Mall is hosting a great event! Are you looking for winter clothes, for your little one or looking to get rid of some clothes? This is also a great way to make some extra cash for the holiday season too! Please check out all of the rules and guidelines whether you are looking to sell or buy here.
7. On the Wagon Ride
When: Saturday 6 pm – 10 pm
Where and What: Do one last Fall celebration before all the Holiday activities start! Summerset Winery, in Indianola is hosting “On the Wagon”. Join them for a bon-fire, hay rack rides, hot dogs, chili, and of course wine! The cost is $25 per person and RSVP is requested. For more information check out Summerset Winery.
8. Central Iowa Wind Ensemble Children’s Concert
When: Sunday at 2 pm
Where and What: The Central Iowa Wind Ensemble will be conducting a special children’s concert at the Temple of Performing Arts. This is a FREE event, so bring the whole family! There will be themes from the Hobbits, Peter and the Wolf, Barnum & Bailey’s Favorite, and more. It is a great educational event for everyone! For more information regarding the concert and directions please check out Central Iowa Wind Ensemble.
