We try to catch at least one show a year at Noce (but it is always nice when we go more than once!). We usually try to go as part of my birthday celebration and tonight we enjoyed the Des Moines Big Band playing "Sounds of the Season". Two hour show with about a 20-minute break and it was an excellent concert. My husband and I both enjoy jazz and Noce is an excellent venue. Small and intimate with a full bar and, if you are hungry, you can order a cheese plate or salty snacks. There was a biting wind when we went tonight so the hot toddy warmed us from the inside out. Our server replenished the hot water midway through, which was appreciated. Great night out, we really should do it more often! read more

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Max Wellman has created and fostered one of the warmest, most welcoming, creative and lovely rooms in all of Central Iowa with Noce! It is among my favorite local gems to introduce locals and visitors alike to. The jazz music line-up is always evolving, and Max has such a gift for curating a calendar that elevates other artists (musicians, singers, dancers and more). I have so many fond memories made here over the past 9 years. It's a grown-up night out that's not stuffy or stale, and the service is always a beautiful ballet to watch, too! Highly recommend visiting early and often throughout the year, any time Max and/or Napoleon are singing or for all of the Voix de Ville and holiday shows you can snag tickets for. You won't be disappointed! read more

Noce is always a fun night out, whether in a group or a couples night out. I was looking for so.ething different to do to celebrate Valentine's Day. Valentine's Day hit during the weekday this year so we couldn't celebrate on actual Valentine's Day. I decided to get us tickets for the Max Wellman Valentine's Day event. First off I love that I can see all the upcoming events on the website. Totally easy to order tickets on line. I always stress about having my tickets up when I get somewhere, the front desk just asked my name and took us to our table. The show was great. Max Wellman always puts on a good show. He even had another performer come up and sing a song. The waitress was nice and attentive. I can't wait to go back again. read more

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It was an absolute thrill to have our wedding reception at Backstage at Noce. From our first impressions on the tour all the way til clean-up the night of our wedding, the service we received was impeccable, genuine, and classy. We booked our reception ~6 months in advance of our event and had no problem with availability, even though it was during the busy months of July/August. To be safe, I'd advise booking at least 6-9 months in advance for a large event. Their event coordinator/manager, Napoleon Douglas, was so, so, so good to us. He helped us get many details sorted ahead of time which really helped put us and our families at ease. Leading up to the event, there were some unfortunate timing/booking conflicts and we weren't able to rent out the venue the night before to decorate. Fortunately, Napoleon and the staff at Noce more than compensated for the inconvenience by allowing our family members/helpers to come in and decorate in the morning. The A/V system, which we used for our "special dances" and toasts, worked perfectly and Noce set it all up for us. They simply asked for the Spotify playlist, gave us a mic, and then they made sure the rest worked perfectly. All the tables, table cloths, chairs, and lights Noce provided were high-quality and extremely classy. The greenery and candles we brought in complimented their décor perfectly, creating a surreal, classy, and formal atmosphere. Noce has a beautiful black grand piano in the backstage that they tuned for us and allowed us to use free of charge. We hired a jazz pianist to play for the whole night, Nate Sparks--who was absolutely incredible. The ambiance was literally perfect; we felt like were in a movie the whole night. Napoleon, the bar tender, and all the staff at Noce were so professional and extraordinarily helpful. Throughout the night it seemed like if you needed a staff member, they were there, but if you didn't, they were no where in sight. We've rarely felt so well attended to. There were a number of times during the evening where an announcement needed to be made and Napoleon immediately stepped up to make the announcement and direct our guests as needed. Even at the end of the night, when Noce's bar needed to be paid, and my wife and I were running very low on energy and patience, Noce's staff remained professional, kind, understanding, and patient. My wife and I are both engineers and we definitely plan things meticulously. But even the best planners get things wrongs and something will go wrong on your big day. Do yourself a favor and let Noce host your event so when things inevitably go awry, Noce's professionalism and class will ensure your guests have no idea anything's wrong. Honestly, you'd be hard-pressed to find a classier venue with more genuinely loving and professional staff than Noce. read more

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So much fun! Voix de Ville was great. The band, the vocalists, the dancers, the stage, the drinks and the snacks made for a really good time. A surprising jazz experience in Des Moines! I would definitely recommend. read more

A fantastic evening! We very much enjoyed the Mike Conrad Trio tonight. Noce is a perfect sized jazz club for a small ensemble. All the seats are good and there is plenty of space between tables so that you don't feel crowded. The musicians can really connect with the audience. The acoustics are great. The cocktails are amazing and the service is attentive without being obtrusive. If you like live jazz, you can't do better. Noce is a gem! read more

Always a great time at Noce! We bought VIP seats for a show last night and had an amazing time. The service was prompt and the atmosphere was calm and relaxing. read more

A wonderful place to come to have a cocktail or a glass of wine while listening to some jazz music. Great vines. Free shows on Thursday nights! read more

I was fortunate to be able to attend the Tina Haase Findlay jazzified Stevie Nicks show on Saturday night. It was my first time here and everything about the night was good, start to finish. When we walked in, the friendly lady at the front desk area asked for my name and checked us in. The rest of the queue went through in the exact same way, and at the same pace, which says that they have this process down. That's a nice way to start things, and I think sets a good tone for guests. Super easy and no hassle or confusion whatsoever. The giant, moody branch chandelier fixture on the ceiling is extra cool. It reminded me of the Snow White ride at Disneyland. The Emcee of the show was smooth as butter and did a great job. Tina, her band and special guest singers, all put on a spectacular show. I love watching a bunch of talented people all getting together to deliver something interesting while wearing big grins of mutual appreciation. It's a really, really cool thing to watch. Our server was nice. My bottle of Pellegrino came out right away, but my friend's Manhattan seemed like it didn't come out until a third of the way into the show. Not sure anyone needs to take blame, we weren't in hurry so it was fine. After the show ended, there seemed to be a rush of people that came in all at once and started eyeing and snatching up tables like hungry seagulls on the beach at lunch time. I could hear the "mine, mine, mine" squawks a lá Finding Nemo. Funny. Did not mind this at all, we were leaving anyway. I'll definitely be back for another show here. That was a fun night! read more

I bought tickets for the show on valentine's. What a better way to enjoy the day than to hear sinatra! Its my first time going to a jazz club. It was full! Its a good size room and its pretty quiet. Definitely alot of people there to appreciate the music. Its the main focus as oppose to music being the background of the ambiance. Max wellman was singing and he was so entertaining! He was funny and shared interesting stories between songs. My fiance had forgotten to turn off his ringer. His phone went off and the whole room heard it. So embarassing! Max Wellman came over and picked up the phone. He told the person on the line that we were in the middle of a show lol! It was so funny! I definitely would be back to see their other shows. My fiancé said he would too! read more

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This was my first real venture out in more than a year, but now that I have been fully vaccinated I decided to take the opportunity to see one of my favorite bands, the Tony Valdez Large Band (TVLB) IN PERSON at Noce last night. What a great night! The venue is stunning, the Sevice fantastic & the music was as fiery as ever! Noce is 100% serious about continuing their Covid precautions for the health and safety of the musicians, their staff and their customers. The expectations are clearly set out for everyone and enforced, which put the focus squarely on enjoying the music. I've missed live music so much this past year! It was wonderful to get to spend quality time again with family & friends last night. The staff at Noce made it possible with their thoughtful preparations. TVLB brought the rhythm and the heat in a reminder of what "fun" looks like. Hopefully, TVLB will appear again soon at Noce as I can't wait to come back! Thanks Noce and TVLB for kicking off what I hope will be a ever increasing series of dates for great music in 2021! read more

Noce - Tony Valdez Large Band turning up the heat at Noce. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

Noce is what every community needs. I've been coming since it opened it's doors and I continue to be impressed each time. Whether it's no-cover Tuesdays or a holiday concert the music is always fantastic. The venue is quaint with primarily small tables right in the heart & soul of the music with room for larger groups on the edge. The drinks are always solid from the cocktails to the port wine. We've also been the the backstage for dance lessons. If you're ever thinking "Will it be worth it?" The answer is always yes. read more

Noce - Home for the holidays! #noce - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines has always had a great little jazz scene! But it has been spread around town. Musicians tooting their horns at the Lift, Star Bar, or the Greenwood for years. One thing our scene needed was a Jazz destination, where local and touring jazz musicians would have a beautiful good sounding room to call home! Well the recently opened Noce, is the spot we have been waiting for. A great sounding room, a rad bar, plenty of seating for big shows, but not to big where it would feel empty on other nights! They have a free jazz night on Tuesdays and paid cover shows on the weekends. I ventured in last night on a Tuesday for a drink, and to check the place out! A local duo were on stage even at 6pm, playing lovely light jazz on the beautiful grand piano and sax. I was greeted at the door by local jazz legend Max Wellman who is running the venue and he gave me a quick low-down on the place. I only had time for one drink as I was waiting for food down the street, so I ordered a bottle of Coors Light (only 2 bucks). I handed the bartender a 50 dollar bill and he hands me 8 bucks back in change! I said, "I think I gave you a 50?" and he says back, "Oh sorry, it felt like a 10." After he corrected his mistake, and I gave him a two dollar tip. I thought, that would be awesome if bills were weighted! So there is no way a 10 could feel like a 50! Anyway this place has tons of character and will hopefully be on the forefront of the re-development of Walnut street! I look forward to many more jazz nights here! read more

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Noce (pronounced no-chay) is a live music (mainly jazz) destination that is well worth checking out. They have perfectly blended the charm of an old downtown building with modern, yet reminiscent decor. From the Edison light bulbs to the velvet curtains surrounding the band stage to the beautifully preserved brick interior walls it is an amazing visual experience. The acoustics and seating plan offers something for everyone. There are tables right in front of the band stage for those who want to experience every note and booths set off to the side that allow for conversation. The bar staff is top notch and the drinks are just right. This is just what was needed in Des Moines and I hope residents will keep it going for decades to come. read more

Noce - The stage - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

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Swanky and cool, that is how to describe noce (sounds like noche). I always thought DM could use an establishment like this, glad someone finally read my mind! This is a fun happy hour or date spot. I had the old fashioned. I like burners but damn, this thing was next level. Once I got to the bottom half I could really taste the ingredients. It was delicious. I also tried the Bobby V- oh yes. The drinks are good, the service is good, the ambiance is cool. Check it out. read more

Noce - Noce coffee and old fashioned - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

Such a great addition to Des Moines! It's a beautiful jazz bar in an untraditional area of downtown Des Moines. The band is cohesive and beyond talented! Max, the venue owner, brings a natural and classy humor to his story telling, which is rich in musical history and song detail. I would absolutely recommend this venue for an experiential change in dynamic to the normal Des Moines entertainment scene. Unrelated to the show, the ambience was exactly what I imagined with dark blue drapes and black accents against a natural red brick. The service was attentive despite the difficulty of taking care of a rush of patrons at the same time. Drinks were themed to the original jazz era with a modern twist, keeping the joint relevant and ageless. Definitely worth a visit (or two, or three). Worried about the cost? The value is incredible when compared to nearby cities and shows of lesser quality. My partner and I had 3 cocktails each and a 3 hour show for a total cost $140, including a generous tip. You're not going to find that at any other show nearby (or otherwise), with half the talent. Good job to Max Wellman and his team! read more

Thank you to Noce for giving us an amazing night out. We appreciate the staff's attention to detail with regards to Covid precautions. I can only imagine how hard this pandemic has been on these awesome business owners and hope customers continue to be respectful. The show was absolutely fantastic. Highly recommend!! read more

I did not know this place even existed. Went on a Friday night to see Steve Barry and had so much fun. Will definitely go back.

It's ok. I like the venue. We went to a New Year's Eve party in the back space. They did a nice job with live music, great appetizers from Tangerine, and a professional photographer. The space is fun with brick walls and wood floors. We've also been to the front bar. They have a great snack tray with dark sea salt caramels, chocolate covered raisins, and nuts. We got a lot for our money. The drink prices are decent and the staff is friendly. read more

Cozy atmosphere, amazing drinks, friendly staff, and world-class jazz! They take pandemic safety very, very seriously and I appreciate them.

This place is special. The staff is friendly & helpful and the music is really great. I think it's pretty freaking amazing to have a locally owned jazz club like Noce here in Des Moines--there's almost nothing better than just hanging out listening to jazz and enjoying a tasty beverage, and bonus: Max Wellman has a voice like salted caramel. I love everything about this place. read more

Thank you for keeping your patrons safe and happy during COVID! Can't say enough good things about this place, definitely worth your time. The owner is a class act and goes above and beyond to take care of his customers. read more

This is such a nice jazz joint. It is swanky with a twist of the modern. I was there for a nonprofit event this time but I have been here before for a holiday show and a theater. This is a great venue and they bring top talent in plus they have amazing house talent. If you are looking for something out of the ordinary to do this is your place. It is a nice place to go with a group or just a date. Give it a try. read more

This is our weekly date night spot! I especially love the Thursday night Jazz on the House with drink specials, but if you're looking for a deal on other night, seating at the bar is always no cover! Their Most Any Afternoon from the spring drink menu is a must try, and don't forget to order a cheese tray from The Cheese Shop. read more

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Live jazz tonight, NO COVER, and cocktails are only $7 ( or else the bartender liked my smile). TTP playing McCausland, etc. quiet street, plenty of parking. read more

Noce - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

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It's an ok bar. My friends and I decided to check out this wine and jazz bar after we learned there is free admission after 10:30. Walking in the building and seeing the interior was amazing. It had an overall jazz atmosphere walking in. However were things started heading south was the jazz performance. I can now see why admission is free after 10:30. The person performing that night wasn't actually performing jazz rather a mixture of theater music, stand up comedy, and story telling. Overall he was not a performer I was expecting for this bar. The wine options themselves were also not very impressive. They had an average amount of options with a few unique choices. The servers were quick and when we went it was not very busy. There is plenty of seating as we were able to get a table for 6. Before going here I highly recommend to look into who is performing that night and go to the admission fee show rather than the free shows. read more

Noce - Bee's Knees cocktail - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

We had looked forward to our first trip to Noce for a while. We finally got the chance this weekend and we plan to go back again. The space is really cool, and I can imagine this being especially fun on a night with a big band during the Christmas season or in warm weather with calypso or some time of Latin American music. The jazz band we saw was fine. I'm glad Des Moines has a place like this. That said, the bar needs help. A classy, unique throwback like absolutely MUST have a better list of classic cocktails than this. Noce's list runs the gamut from boring Moscow mules with nothing but basic ingredients, weird champagne mixers that man would order. I ordered an old fashioned (off menu) and I'm pretty sure it had soda water in it. No bitters, cheap maraschino cherry--inexcusable for a drink running $10+. Martinis are so-so at best. The bartenders need to take a trip to Sam and Gabe's, Juniper Moon, or Django and take some lessons. We will be heading back for the music, but I'll be drinking beer. read more

Over priced and under staffed. I had to wait in line for 45 minutes before getting a drink. Usually when you pay a premium for a nicer facility, you expect a corresponding gain in quality or service. In the case of Noce, however, you had the high prices, but none of the things you expect to go along with it. In my opinion, this place falls miserably short of its potential. I'll also add-- they were under staffed and taking 45 minutes to serve drinks, and the owner was just wandering around refusing to help customers out. read more

Chicago... New York... they've got nothing on Iowa. That's right... read it again... I wrote IOWA. In particular Des Moines, Iowa and it's latest entertainment offering - Noce! A big band era jazz club located near the corner of 13th and Walnut (downtown), this place is classic. The bar and the service is excellent and the big band/jazz music is superior. Kids that love this music are allowed in the early shows; my daughter is nearly 14 and she loved it. Great decor, easy to find, quality drinks and entertainment that rivals any nearby big city... I hope Noce is here to stay. read more

If you are looking for a unique and jazzy vibe this is a MUST stop! Hubby and I found this gem when exploring downtown and we could not get over the atmosphere, drink selection, and live music! This place really transports you into all the good feels ! Well done!! read more

Just went to their New Years Eve party. The good: incredibly friendly staff, well serviced; drinks were very tasty. The back room with the casino games was a lot of fun considering it was fake money; good atmosphere. Band was terrific. Would go back just to hear them play on a regular night. The bad: $150 was a bit steep all things considered. The female vocals were good but the guy who sang was so-so. Apparently he's the part owner so maybe that's why he's on stage. More band less him. Overall not bad. I may go back on a regular night next time I'm in town. read more

This incredible place is a class act through and through! I believe it is one of the best things to ever hit Des Moines! You will never be sorry for attending any of the music events that they provide! The talent showcased here is top notch! And the staff is caring and accommodating and you will feel welcome from the moment you enter the place to the moment you leave. I have so many incredible memories from the times I've had the privilege of attending with friends and family. If you have never been to NOCE, don't hesitate! You will be richly blessed. read more

Amazing jazz club downtown in the heart of Des Moines. So lucky to have this club offering a variety of shows from Dixie to Broadway to theatherical jazz and more. Service is great and guests feel welcome. I enjoy the songs of the 40s which they often perform. Reminds me of the songs my parents loved and passed that enjoyment to me. Isn't that what we hope to do with generations to come? If you are in Des Moines, Noce is a venue you must try! read more

Noce - Des Moines finest in jazz! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

Stumbled upon this jazz venue gem. The live jazz was high quality and they have a solid cocktail list. Great staff and atmosphere. Will absolutely be back on return trips to Des Moines. read more

Noce - Thursday night - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

Such an amazing jazz club experience right here in Des Moines. The Des Moines big band was wonderful and the music of Frank Sinatra was perfect for our date night. Our waitress was busy but very attentive, will for sure be back. read more

Noce - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

Love this venue and thrilled to have something like this in the Des Moines area. The seats are comfortable and the bar makes a great old fashioned. If you haven't checked it out already you should. read more

Noce is a wonderful place! Beautiful music and environment, great drinks and snacks! Definitely a place to go for a date night, a relaxing afternoon happy hour, or just to hear some great music while sipping delicious drinks. What a great downtown Des Moines spot!! read more

I spent a few weeks in Des Moines and I could not have been more impressed with the food and culture I experienced there. Noce is a gem. If you love great jazz music and good drinks, you cannot miss this place. This is an intimate venue, so be sure to arrive early to grab seats. Seating is around tables and there were about 4 chairs per table. If you have a large group you may not be able to sit together, and with a small group you may have to share a table with others. read more

Noce - Jazz night with Rose Colella - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

Max and crew always do their best to provide a unique, exciting, and safe environment for their guests. THANK YOU for everything you do and provide! read more

Des Moines is unbelievably lucky to have this unique space, and we're all rooting for it to make it through these trying times. Service is spot on, drunks and music always enjoyable, and very appreciative of their safety precautions with Covid. Bravo! read more