First bite: The Green Olive expands to downtown Des Moines

First bite: The Green Olive expands to downtown Des Moines

Jason here: The Green Olive has added a downtown Des Moines location, bringing its Mediterranean platters and wraps to the Gray's Station area.

The vibe: Bright, casual and quick-service — the kind of place that works for a lunch break, an easy dinner or a takeout order when you want something fresher than the usual fast-food loop.

On the menu: Shawarma, kabobs, gyros and falafel anchor the lineup, with platters served alongside staples like hummus, yellow rice, salad and pita.

  • Breakfast is also served before 11am, with a mix of omelets, skillets and sandwiches.

    • The falafel (left), tabbouleh salad and hummus. Photos: Jason Clayworth/Axios

    On my plate: I tried the Falafel Platter ($17), which was big enough to share.

  • For an additional $3, we were able to add extra sides and another piece of pita bread — a worthwhile move if you're splitting.
  • The falafel was hearty without being heavy, while the hummus and garlic-lemon-dressed salad helped keep the plate balanced.
  • I also tried a small tabbouleh salad ($8.99) — a parsley-heavy mix of chopped herbs, tomatoes, bulgur and lemon that was bright and refreshing.

    • My thought bubble: This is a solid fast-casual option, especially for people looking for vegetarian-friendly meals.

    Dig in: The Green Olive, 424 SW 9th St., Suite 116, DSM.

  • Open Monday-Saturday, 8am-9pm; Sunday, 8:30am-8pm.