Food & Hospitality
New construction of a 7,800 SF fine dining restaurant located within the heart of Des Moines, IA.
The project
New construction of a 7,800 SF fine dining restaurant located within the heart of Des Moines, IA. This build was very fun for our team as it encompassed a wide variety of intricate design elements. The open solarium, wood beam ceilings, show kitchen, and zinc bar are just a few of the spaces/design elements that set it apart from all other restaurants in town.
Project gallery
6 views from the Oak Park Restaurant project.
Food & Hospitality
Explore other food & hospitality projects completed by K. Johnson Construction.
Food & Hospitality South Union Cafe has long been a go-to lunch destination, buzzing with energy and flavor. After years of heavy traffic, it was time for a refresh—and our team delivered a transformation that blends timeless character with modern efficiency. The space now features Wow USA’s Tessrae Collection mosaic tile, inspired by 19th-century handmade cement tiles, creating a striking patterned floor that sets the tone for the entire experience. A sleek new point-of-sale counter anchors the design, complemented by a bright, open layout that improves flow and flexibility. Warm orange accent walls, bold vintage-style posters, and crisp white ceiling panels add personality and vibrancy, while strategic lighting highlights the menu and seating areas. The result? A space that feels inviting, efficient, and full of character—perfect for the fast-paced lunch crowd South Union Cafe is known for. Special thanks to Hartman-Spiller Architecture for their exceptional design work, bringing this vision to life with creativity and precision.
Food & Hospitality Converted existing Starbucks into sleek , modern café. This was a complete demo and renovation that includes element such as: New MEP Custom rifted white oak millwork Custom quartz back bar 13′ tall by 12′ long sliding entrance door
Food & Hospitality New construction of a restaurant TI located East Village with modern, simplistic design elements. Includes commercial show kitchen, intricate bar design with solid white oak slat ceiling structure, custom steel paneling, graphic wall treatment and exposed wood beam ceiling
Plan the next project
Bring KJC into the conversation early for practical planning, clear coordination, and commercial construction experience across Central Iowa.