Set inside the old Crazy Horse Guitars building just east of Drake University, Lucky Horse Burgers and Beer has turned a piece of Dogtown’s musical history into one of the neighborhood’s most reliable burger and beer joints.
The saloon still pays tribute to its former life as a guitar shop through music-themed decor and wall hangings pulled straight from the previous tenant.
What Makes This Historic Saloon Worth A Visit
Lucky Horse Burgers and Beer built its reputation on juicy burgers served on soft brioche buns alongside craveable appetizers and a rotating drink list built for a college-adjacent crowd.
Since opening in 2020, it’s become a steady go-to for both Drake University students and longtime Dogtown residents looking for a comfortable, no-frills spot to eat and drink.
Part of the appeal is the Monday Burger Special, which features a rotating Burger of the Month that keeps even regulars guessing what’s coming next.
Past specials like the Black and Blue Burger, a double-patty creation, have earned enough of a following that customers actively watch for the new monthly flavor announcements.
For a first visit, the Dogtown Burger is the dish most frequently pictured and praised, and pairing it with an order of white cheddar cheese curds or pickle fries covers two of the appetizers regulars order most.
Since the menu also includes flatbreads and salads, it’s an easy spot to bring a group with mixed cravings without anyone feeling stuck with just burger options.
Food Highlights
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Dogtown Burger: Named after the neighborhood itself and loaded with a hearty mix of toppings over a juicy patty on a soft brioche bun, the Dogtown Burger is the single most photographed dish on the menu and the one nearly every regular recommends to first-timers.
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Bacon Cheddar Burger: Topped with crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese stacked high over a perfectly seared patty, the Bacon Cheddar Burger has earned the restaurant’s official best-seller title and remains the go-to order for classic burger lovers.
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Fried Mushroom Swiss Burger: Topped with crispy fried mushrooms and melted Swiss cheese for an earthy, savory bite in every layer, the Fried Mushroom Swiss Burger gives burger fans a richer, more indulgent alternative to the standard cheeseburger.
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BBQ Burger: Finished with a tangy barbecue sauce, crispy onion straws, and melted cheese over a juicy patty, the BBQ Burger brings a smoky, slightly sweet flavor that regulars order when they want something a little different from the classics.
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Baja Burger: Loaded with fresh avocado, pepper jack cheese, and a zesty sauce that gives the whole sandwich a brighter, Southwest-inspired kick, the Baja Burger stands out as one of the more creative options on a menu full of classic combinations.
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White Cheddar Cheese Curds: Fried until the coating turns golden and crackly while the cheese inside stays gooey and warm, the White Cheddar Cheese Curds have become a staple starter that pairs perfectly with the bar’s rotating beer list.
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Pickle Fries: Sliced thin, coated in a crispy batter, and fried until crunchy on the outside with a tangy bite in every piece, the Pickle Fries show up constantly in customer photos as a must-order appetizer for the table.
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Biscuits and Gravy: Made with warm, flaky biscuits smothered in a rich, peppery country gravy, the Biscuits and Gravy gives regulars a comforting, brunch-style option beyond the usual burger and beer lineup.
Atmosphere
Lucky Horse Burgers and Beer occupies a historic Dogtown building with a comfortable, modern saloon feel that leans into its musical past through guitar-themed wall art and decor pulled directly from the former shop.
The vibe stays casual and neighborhood-focused, making it an easy spot for a quick lunch or a longer evening hangout with friends.
Given its proximity to Drake University, the bar draws a steady mix of students and longtime locals, keeping the energy lively without ever feeling overwhelming.
Staff are frequently mentioned for keeping the atmosphere relaxed and welcoming, whether you’re stopping in for a quick burger or settling in for a full evening of drinks.
Bottomline
Lucky Horse Burgers and Beer is the Des Moines spot to hit when you want proof that a converted guitar shop can turn out some of the city’s best burgers, whether that’s through the crowd-favorite Dogtown Burger or the best-selling Bacon Cheddar Burger.
With a rotating Burger of the Month, craveable appetizers like cheese curds and pickle fries, and a genuinely welcoming neighborhood vibe, it’s easily one of Dogtown’s most dependable spots for burgers and beer.
Address:
2331 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311
📞 +1 515-528-8226
🕔 Open daily 11:00 AM–10:00 PM