Splash Seafood Bar & Grill has brought the flavors of the coast to Des Moines since 1998. Our jet fresh seafood arrives from coastal markets across the country, including Boston, Seattle, Key Largo, and Honolulu, and is complemented by an award winning wine program and a dining room unlike anywhere else in Iowa.
The idea for Splash Seafood Bar & Grill began on the water with owner Bruce Gerleman. An avid Florida Keys fisherman, Bruce spent time exploring Key West, Islamorada, and Key Largo. Along the way, he discovered fresh seafood and the distinctive local cooking of the islands.
Inspired by those flavors, Bruce began gathering recipes and brought that island style approach home to Iowa.
"I am committed to bringing the same attention to detail that I accomplished in so many of my historic renovations to the food and service at Splash. My plan has always been to bring the best of the Islands back to Iowa to share with my guests."
That vision helped shape Splash Seafood Bar & Grill into more than a seafood restaurant. Local artist and designer Saley Nong was commissioned to interpret life beneath the sea through colorful mural work. The artwork is complemented by nine large saltwater aquariums filled with coral and tropical fish.
Executive Chef Ryan Baber carries the Splash Seafood Bar & Grill tradition forward with a strong commitment to freshness, seasonality, and thoughtful preparation.
Ryan spent 16 years with Splash Seafood Bar & Grill before being named Executive Chef in 2024. That experience gave him a deep understanding of the restaurant, its guests, and its approach to seafood.
Bringing fresh seafood to the middle of Iowa takes careful planning. Ryan works directly with seafood purveyors across the country. Those relationships stretch from Hawaii and the Pacific Northwest to Prince Edward Island and the Florida Keys.
Ryan builds menus around what is fresh and coming off the boat. His seasonal approach also brings fresh Iowa produce and locally sourced beef into the kitchen. The result connects the flavors of the coast with ingredients sourced closer to home.
