Family-owned businesses in Des Moines: 10 local spots
Family-owned Des Moines businesses in flags, dining, eye care, window treatments, framing, pet care and children's clothing, with notes on each.
10 local businesses · Updated November 2026 · From Our Local Spotlight
These family-owned businesses cover a wide range, from flags and dining to eye exams, window treatments, photo restoration, veterinary care and children's clothing. Many of them book appointments, consultations or catering, so it helps to plan a little ahead. Call before you go to confirm hours and availability, and ask what a quote or consultation includes. If you plan to pay with insurance, financing or a gift card, confirm that the business accepts it before you book.
1
AD Flags
Local business Des Moines, IAAD Flags sells flags and flagpoles at its East Grand Avenue store in Des Moines, and it has been in business since 1958. Shoppers can visit in person during regular hours or order online.
2
Baratta's Restaurant and Catering
Italian restaurant Des Moines, IABaratta's Restaurant and Catering serves lasagna al forno, steak deburgo and cannolis on Des Moines' south side. The family began as a small Italian grocery that once operated from their home near downtown.
3
Beaverdale Eye PC
Eye care Des Moines, IABeaverdale Eye PC has served the Beaverdale community for more than 50 years. Three optometrists handle eye exams, prescriptions, allergy care and emergency eye care for the whole family, and it carries a wide selection of frames and contact lens brands.
4
Bernardo's Burritos
Restaurant Des Moines, IABernardo's Burritos is a downtown Des Moines Mexican restaurant known for burritos, tacos and enchiladas made fresh daily. It started as a sidewalk taco stand and is family-run, and it also offers catering and food truck events.
5
Bianchi's Hilltop Restaurant
Italian restaurant Des Moines, IABianchi's Hilltop Restaurant has served Des Moines for over 50 years, known for homemade onion rings and Italian pizza. A create-your-own option lets guests build their own pizza, pasta, salad or burger, and pizza crusts come thin or gluten-friendly.
6
Burgin Drapery Workroom & Blinds
Windows & doors Des Moines, IABurgin Drapery Workroom & Blinds makes custom draperies, blinds, shades and shutters for homes, schools, offices and other commercial spaces. A designer can meet you at the showroom or visit your home for a free in-home consultation.
7
Centro
Restaurant Des Moines, IACentro is an Italian-inspired restaurant downtown known for handmade pasta, including fresh cavatelli and gnocchi. On Mondays, Pizza & Pint Night offers half-price pizza and select beers for dine-in guests.
8
Dot's Gallery & Frame Shop
Gift shop A Des Moines, IADot's Gallery & Frame Shop does custom matting and framing, along with photo restoration, scanning and tape transfers for VHS, Beta and 8mm. Staff bring more than 30 years of experience, and the shop has been owned by the Landgrens since 2002.
9
Heartland Animal Hospital
Veterinarian Des Moines, IAHeartland Animal Hospital cares for cats, dogs and exotic pets such as rabbits, ferrets and turtles, with wellness exams, dentistry, spay and neuter surgery and same-day service. In 2024, Dr. Katherine Edel took over the practice from her father.
10
Janes - Family Shop
Boutique Des Moines, IAJanes - Family Shop sells baby and kids clothing, swaddles, toys and books, and it stocks gift cards. Owner Sarah Jane runs the shop with help from her family, and handwritten gift notes are available.
Details come from each business’s own listing in Des Moines Local Directory. Businesses don’t pay to be in our guides.