Walking into Hessen Haus is like traveling halfway across the world. The German restaurant located in downtown Des Moines, at 101 4th St., is bright and friendly.

A casual seat-yourself pub creates an inviting atmosphere where diners are encouraged to try new foods or eat their old German favorites.

Hessen Haus provides an assortment of German and American cuisine. An entire dinner can be ordered for around $10, but a sandwich with a side can be purchased for as little as $3.

I decided to go in a group and we ordered the Die Grosse Platte. Although it’s a little on the expensive side, $59.95, you definitely get your money’s worth.

The family style platter serves five hungry people and includes schweins haxe, jaeger schnitzel, weinerschnitzel, sauerbraten, zwei rinder rouladen, ein halbes hahnchen, zwei bratwurst, sauerkraut, roasted potatoes and mixed vegetables.

You may not have heard of some of these dishes, but the helpful staff will be glad to explain each item to you.

I would recommend the Die Grosse Platte to diners. You get to experience a lot more of Germany than if you ordered a single dish. Don’t get too caught up in the main meal, though, remember to save room for dessert. The restaurant serves a delicious, and very large, slice of German chocolate cake for only $4.95. For those of you over 21 years old, you can round off your meal with one of the 30 bottled beers or one of the 19 beers on tap.

Overall, whether dining in or stopping for a drink, Hessen Haus offers a welcoming environment. Its quick service, laid back style and live weekend music serves up every visitor with a little taste of Germany.