Dinner, Drinks, and Nostalgia Beneath Val Air Ballroom

Tucked beneath the historic Val Air Ballroom in West Des Moines, Tom Archer’s Poor Man’s Country Club brings a mid-century supper club vibe back to life—complete with classic cocktails, nostalgic decor, and a menu that balances comfort with creativity.

The space is a tribute to Tom Archer, original owner of the Val Air, with walls lined in vintage photos, news clippings, and memorabilia that celebrate the ballroom’s storied past. Brought to life by Sam Summers, the concept honors tradition while giving it a fresh, elevated feel.

From rich popovers to house-made pasta and premium Iowa beef, the menu leans into the supper club aesthetic with polish and heart. Whether you're headed to a show upstairs or settling in for a cozy dinner, Poor Man’s is a one-of-a-kind destination for food, drinks, and a bit of Des Moines history.

Location:

• Located beneath the Val Air Ballroom

• Address: 301 Ashworth Rd, West Des Moines, IA

• Concept by Sam Summers (First Fleet Concerts, Wooly’s, Hinterland)

Menu Highlights:

Tom Archer’s Poor Man’s Country Club takes supper club staples and elevates them with bold flavors, local ingredients, and a little unexpected flair. Here's a taste of what to expect:

• Tallow-baked popovers – Hot out of the oven and rich with savory depth, these show-stopping rolls are baked to order and impossible to share.

• Chicken liver mousse – Silky, indulgent, and perfectly spreadable—served with accompaniments that make it sing.

• French onion soup – Classic, bubbling, and deeply caramelized with melty cheese and a golden crouton lid.

• Wedge salad – A throwback favorite made better with Iowa’s own Maytag blue cheese, thick-cut Nueske’s bacon, and crisp iceberg crunch.

• Relish tray – A playful nod to Midwest tradition, piled high with pickled vegetables, cured meats, house-made dip, and crunchy crackers.

• House-made pastas – Gnocchi so soft it nearly melts, classic spaghetti and meatballs, or filled ravioli—each with the option to level up with fresh shaved black truffles.

• Signature entrées:

  • Crispy pork schnitzel with golden crust and tangy brightness

  • Mushroom Wellington, earthy and rich, wrapped in flaky pastry

  • Chicken Vesuvio with garlicky, herbed pan sauce

  • Pan-seared walleye, perfectly flaky and fresh

• Steaks that mean business – Choose from a premium Iowa-sourced filet, New York strip, or center-cut steak—all served with seasonal sides that rotate with what’s fresh.
  
  

Whether you're a longtime local or new to the Des Moines dining scene, Tom Archer’s Poor Man’s Country Club offers a dining experience that’s rooted in tradition, packed with flavor, and full of character. Come for the history, stay for the food, and leave already planning your next visit.