THE AMNER MARTINEZ PODCAST
Why Local Businesses Matter More Than Ever | Karla Walsh on Des Moines' Food Culture
What happens when two people who genuinely love Des Moines sit down over great food and cocktails?You get a conversation that starts with restaurants... and ends up becoming one of the best discussions about community, entrepreneurship, and why local businesses matter.Nationally published lifestyle writer Karla Walsh joins Amner Martinez inside Bar Martinez in Historic Highland Park for a wide-ranging conversation about the city they both care deeply about.This conversation celebrates the people and places shaping Des Moines—from longtime favorites like Proof, Harbinger, Oak Park, Americana, Clyde's, Bartender's Handshake, The Contrary, Secret Admirer, Cream, Aposto, and Bar Martinez, to the entrepreneurs and hospitality leaders continuing to move our city forward, including George Formaro, Nick Tillinghast, Jeff Bruning, and many others.How do we make sure local businesses continue to thrive?Along the way, they dive into:• Why Des Moines has quietly become one of the Midwest's best food cities• Why so many beloved restaurants are closing• The difference between food critics and storytellers• The cocktail renaissance happening across Central Iowa• Hidden gems worth driving across Iowa for• Why supporting local restaurants means supporting entire neighborhoods• How hospitality creates community• Why Highland Park is becoming one of the city's most exciting places to watchWhether you've lived here your entire life or just moved to Iowa, this conversation will make you appreciate the people building Des Moines one small business at a time.
