Cocktail Bar
Unclaimed profileThe High Life Lounge
Des Moines, IA · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
The High Life Lounge leans hard into its name, making Miller High Life the centerpiece of a 1960s-style tavern experience. Vintage promotional signs set the tone, and the beer list sticks to classic American lagers like Hamm's, Pabst Blue Ribbon, and Schlitz. For non-drinkers, the menu runs from standard sodas to Tang and Millstream Sodas. This is a place that knows exactly what it is and pours accordingly.
- What should I order?
- Start with a Miller High Life, the self-proclaimed 'Champagne of Beers' and the clear star of the house. If you want to explore the retro theme, Hamm's and Schlitz (original recipe) are solid alternatives that reinforce the vintage character.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Fans of classic American lagers and retro bar culture will feel at home. Those who appreciate a focused beer list with no craft pretensions will find the straightforward approach refreshing.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Pricing is not detailed for most items, but non-alcoholic drinks like Tang, Milk, and Coffee are listed at $2.25 each, suggesting generally modest prices.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The venue's identity is inseparable from Miller High Life, reinforced by vintage signage and a beer list that celebrates mid-century American brewing. It's a deliberate, unapologetic nod to a bygone era of beer consumption.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Beer
A focused lineup of classic American lagers, led by Miller High Life and rounded out with Hamm's, Pabst Blue Ribbon, and Schlitz. The bar's retro identity is built around these brews, making it a destination for fans of simple, straightforward beer.
Menu strengths
- — The venue's identity is strongly tied to Miller High Life, creating a clear and authentic beer-focused concept.
- — Vintage Miller promotional signs reinforce the 1960s tavern atmosphere and the beer's centrality.
Standout selections
- — Miller High Life, the 'Champagne of Beers', is the star of the venue and a must-try.
- — Schlitz (original recipe) offers a taste of a classic American lager from the era.
Nonalcoholic
A broad non-alcoholic menu includes standard sodas, lemonade, iced tea, coffee, and specialty options like Tang and Millstream Sodas.
Menu strengths
- — The menu offers a wide variety of non-alcoholic choices, from Coca-Cola products to specialty sodas.
- — Including nostalgic options like Tang and Mellow Yellow adds a playful retro touch.
Standout selections
- — The drink menu lists soft drinks including Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Mr. Pibb, Mellow Yellow, Fanta Orange Soda, Lemonade, Iced Tea, Tang, Milk, Coffee, Red Bull, and Millstream Sodas.
Pricing: Tang, Milk, and Coffee are each $2.25.
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