Cooper's on 5th

A few weeks ago we headed down to the Valley Junction Farmer's Market. It was a hot evening, and after an hour or so of wandering, we were ready for some A/C and a nice cool beverage. So, we stopped in here - at Cooper's on 5th.

Located at 227 5th Street in the heart of Valley Junction, Cooper's on 5th opened late last year. Owners Ryan and Kara Cooper and Randy Hagen have really made this space an inviting place to dine. On that evening during the farmer's market, we stopped in and had the pulled pork egg roll appetizer (very good!) and some excellent $5 sangria. We made plans then to come back for dinner.

The dining room is cozy, and the tables and booths can fill up fast. Don't worry though, Cooper's does take reservations so you can be sure your party is seated as requested. The ambiance is wonderful, all sorts of dark wood and interesting artwork.

There is also a nice bar, perfect for a sandwich or appetizer along with the drink specials they feature every day. I mentioned the $5 sangria on Thursdays, how about a $5 martini on Tuesday?

We ordered up a couple of vodka lemonades to sip on while we decided what to order for dinner. Lots of choices on the menu including soups and salads, burgers and sandwiches. Entrees include what Cooper's describes as "Classy comfort food" - Smoked Gouda Mac 'n Cheese? Port Braised Short Ribs? That's the kind of comfort food we're always looking for!

I started dinner with the house salad with house-made Creamy Parmesan dressing. Nice chunks of onion and big, crunchy croutons really made this salad for me. And that dressing? If I thought I could get away with it I would've licked the last of it out of that little cup. That good.

Grant had the Soup du J'our - Turkey and Jasmine Rice. Chunky and full of flavor, he was impressed.

For my entree, I chose the Swiss Steak Marsala. Two generous portions of Black Angus cube steak were smothered with a homemade marsala wine sauce - so rich and creamy. The side of white cheddar mashed potatoes were the perfect taste and texture. Also enjoyed the sauteed veggies. This is truly classy comfort food.

Grant had the Cajun Meatloaf - homemade meatloaf topped with a zingy sweet tomato glaze. The cajun seasoning really made this dish, although it's not too spicy. Just enough zip to bring out the cajun flavor. The white cheddar garlic mashed potatoes were a hit with Grant, too.

We dined at Cooper's on 5th on a Wednesday night, which just happens to be when every bottle of wine is only $15! Couldn't pass that up, of course, so we enjoyed this bottle of Four Vines Zinfandel.

For dessert, our server, Kara, who skillfully took care of our every need, suggested this chocolate beauty. It was excellent, and rest assured, there was none of IT left when WE left.

Cooper's on 5th also showcases Chef's Features on Friday and Saturday nights, so you'll always have a new meal to try when you stop in on those evenings.

We really enjoyed our evening out at Cooper's on 5th. With outstanding food, great drink specials and professional service, we know you will too. Let us know if you've been to Cooper's on 5th so we'll know what to order next time!

Cooper's on 5th

227 5th Street
West Des Moines, IA  50265

515.255.9895

Hours

Tuesday - Friday  4pm - 11pm
Saturday  11am - 3pm, 4pm - 11pm
Sunday  11am - 3pm

Menus and more information at www.cooperson5th.com

And check out their Facebook page here