There are breweries, and then there are places that feel like they were built specifically for the kind of evening you’ll still be talking about a month later. Storytellers Brewing Company, tucked into the vibrant East Village neighborhood of Des Moines, falls firmly into the second category. From the moment you push open the door, something about this place just settles over you — a warmth, a sense of genuine welcome, the low hum of good conversation already underway.
The East Village has long been one of Des Moines’ most walkable and character-rich districts, lined with independent shops, art galleries, and restaurants that reward the curious. Storytellers fits right in without trying too hard. The taproom itself is beautifully designed — exposed brick, warm lighting, a long bar that invites you to pull up a stool and stay awhile. There’s gallery-style artwork rotating on the walls, often from local artists, which gives the space an ever-changing personality. No two visits feel quite the same.
Now, the beer. Storytellers takes its craft seriously without taking itself too seriously, which is exactly the right balance. The rotating tap list leans into creative, well-executed styles — think hazy IPAs with tropical brightness, rich stouts that drink like dessert, and seasonal offerings that actually reflect the calendar rather than just paying it lip service. If you’re newer to craft beer, the staff here are genuinely knowledgeable and enthusiastic without being the least bit condescending. Ask for a recommendation and you’ll get a real answer, not a rehearsed one.
What truly sets Storytellers apart, though, is the programming. The taproom hosts a lively rotation of events — live acoustic music on weekends, trivia nights that draw devoted regulars, and the occasional storytelling open-mic that gave the place its name. That commitment to community and narrative runs through everything here. You get the sense that the owners want this to be a place where people actually connect, not just a room where drinks are served.
It’s also worth noting that Storytellers is dog-friendly in its outdoor patio space, which, come spring and fall in Des Moines, becomes one of the most pleasant spots in the city to spend a golden afternoon. Bring a friend, bring your dog, order a flight, and watch the East Village foot traffic drift by.
Parking in the East Village is straightforward — street parking is usually available within a short walk, and several public lots are nearby. The taproom is also easily accessible if you’re biking in, which, given the neighborhood’s proximity to several trail connections, is a genuinely pleasant option.
Whether you’re a Des Moines local looking for a new regular spot or a visitor wanting to experience the city’s craft beverage scene at its most personable, Storytellers Brewing Company delivers something that’s harder to manufacture than a good beer: real atmosphere. Come for a pint, stay for the story.
