Buddys Corral
Visitors praise Buddy's Corral for its friendly bartenders, great drinks at reasonable prices, and a welcoming atmosphere, especially for the LGBTQ community, with many highlighting the fun karaoke nights. However, some reviewers express strong disapproval of the bar's alleged support for an individual accused of drunk driving, and others note that the bar has fired some of its best staff, leading to a less enjoyable experience for them.
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The best staff, it lives in the shadow of the bar next door but it’s actually FAR better, it’s a gay ~dive~ bar. Western theme. Best karaoke bar in all of Des Moines also! Cash only :)
This is a very despicable bar. Instead of raising money for a young man whose life was cut short by a selfish man who decided to drink and drive, they are trying to help the murderer go free to do it again!!! I will not support this establishment. I'm sad they're in our community.
When I first moved to Iowa from Texas I found this place to be my haven. I met bar staff and people that I truly called friends. It was a welcome surprise coming to the midwest. That was until I met the owner, buddy. When I walked into this bar it was like the sitcom "cheers" friendly people and staff that knew your name. The owner however, I found out, is on a multiple of medications. Or so was the excuse that individuals said for him being a bigot for not wanting to shake my hand! Whatever the excuse, when someone who cherishes a place comes to the realization that the owner cares nothing about anything but himself and you come to the realization that a man of color is worthless of a handshake! It puts life into perspective! ... 2 days ago I would have recommended this place to my family, friends, and the love of my life! But I hope you are like me and know that when someone, buddy, is so incapable of a simple gesture and looks down to you to the point that the good bar staff run outside to find out what's wrong and to justify this man's actions is why I will never go in again. I don't write this to be a pariah but because I am so disappointed in thinking that for a moment that I found a place that I was accepted. How was I stunned with the hard truth. Make the decision for yourself and remember who you are supporting each and every time you buy a drink in that bar. Thank you for reading!
Austin & Matthew are so welcoming and kind!
Austin is so great. The karaoke is soooo fun. Love this place immensely!!! Been coming here years
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Last updated on 3 August 2026