Sprockets Kitchen & Bar has quickly become a standout in Des Moines’ sports bar scene, situated at 2314 University Ave. With a robust menu, it specializes in wings, tantalizingly offering both traditional and boneless options, as well as plant-based cauliflower wings. Diners rave about flavors, with reviews highlighting favorites like spicy BBQ and Cajun dry rub. The hearty app sampler and Irish-inspired Bully Fries are also crowd-pleasers. For those looking for a true comfort experience, the crab rangoons have garnered particular praise for their deliciousness. Reviewers point out the welcoming atmosphere, bolstered by a friendly and professional staff. One patron emphasized the rewarding experience of enjoying good food while catching up on sports. While a few have noted the small staff could lead to longer wait times, they encourage newcomers to be patient, asserting that the quality of the food is well worth it. It's clear that Sprockets Kitchen & Bar is not just about what’s on the plate; it’s a hub for community spirit and shared enjoyment, making it a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
No wheelchair-accessible seating
From the business
Identifies as Black-owned
Service options
Offers kerbside pickup
Has no-contact delivery
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Has quiz night
Good for watching sport
Popular for
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves food
Serves food at bar
Serves happy-hour drinks
Serves happy-hour food
Serves spirits
Serves wine
Dining options
Has seating
Amenities
Has gender-neutral toilets
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
Good for groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Transgender safe space
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Photos
Reviews For Sprockets Kitchen & Bar
brian hensgen
Jun 4,2025
We came to town for a soccer tournament and looked up the best wings in town and found Rico’s. The reviews did not disappoint. We had 2 orders of 4 flavors. Spicy bbq, Cajun dry rub, traditional and Korean. Every flavor tasted great. The fries were awesome too. The only disappointment was that we didn’t have room to try the catfish. Next time for sure. When you’re there, be patient and enjoy yourself. It’s a small staff so don’t be in such a hurry. But do go. The food is outstanding.
Courtney Nicole
May 25,2025
Wing are bomb!!!!! Crab Rangoon are delicious!!!!! Mac and Cheese was perfect. I ordered delivery when I got my wings they were still hot and omg I had to stop myself cause I didn't wanna stop..sauce was on point 10 stars!!!
Mike French
May 23,2025
Only positive things to say here! Rico's is an awesome local spot in the Drake neighborhood that has delicious bar food! An awesome spot to go to for good food and sports on TVs. Thus far I've only scratched the surface with trying their drinks, wings & tacos, but there's many other tasty looking things on the menu I look forward to ordering in the future... Not to mention the very friendly staff, plus the ownership/management are good people focused on being a presence for the community! Give this place a try - your tastebuds won't regret it! And a Public Service Announcement: Let's all give public bars/restaurants a break when it comes to timeliness of service. The restaurant industry has suffered heavily since the COVID pandemic... Despite this, these great people here are committed to providing the BEST service and food in heart of the Des Moines neighborhood!
chris ohyama
Apr 21,2025
The bartenders were friendly, very professional, and very well mannered. The chef they got in the back, wow, I've been around and had a lot of different fried catfish, but wow. This fish was so good I was silent for 10 minutes straight eating this golden crispy darkness. It's a new neighborhood spot, hope it stays and becomes a local spot. 10/10 recommend.
Asa Shorkey
Apr 7,2025
The food was amazing, and the service was very good, too. Excellent wings!
Lance Thornton
Apr 4,2025
Sprokets Bar – Where One Drink Turns Into Five (and You Regret Nothing) I walked into Sprokets in the Drake neighborhood planning to have just one drink. Five drinks later, I was convinced this place might just be the best bar in Des Moines. From the moment I stepped in, Jamie, the absolute rockstar of a bartender, welcomed me like an old friend. As the only white guy in the bar, I could've felt out of place, but Jamie made sure I felt nothing but at home. Its as if she had Jungle Fever. Honestly, if she ran for mayor, she’d have my vote. The drinks? Smooth, strong, and dangerously convincing that you need "just one more." The food? Smelled so incredible I nearly ordered something off someone else’s plate. The vibe? Top-tier. Great people, great energy, and the kind of place you don’t want to leave. So yeah, I came for one drink and left five deep, happier than ever. Sprokets is a must-visit, and if you stop by, tell Jamie she’s a legend (and tip her well).
Courtney Krause
Mar 22,2025
It was a really busy Thursday night when I went in to satisfy a mozzarella stick craving. The bartenders were so on it: communicating and multitasking with ease and professionalism. The motz sticks were definitely worth the wait, and it was a fun environment to sip on a couple cocktails in the meantime. Thank you!
Jesse Ellifson
Feb 10,2025
True hidden gem! Missy is the bomb. Great Vibe, Food, & Drinks. This is a must try fo sho! Breakfast All Day
Reviews For Sprockets Kitchen & Bar