Saffron & Sumac: A Culinary Journey Through the Flavors of the Levant
An Elegant Evening of Spices, Storytelling, and Heritage
Date: Thursday, June 18, 2026
Location: Des Moines, Iowa (Central Iowa)
Time: Cocktail Hour- 5:30pm, Dinner- 6:30 PM
Transport your palate to the vibrant, sun-drenched heart of the Levant. Savor Moxie presents Saffron & Sumac, an exclusive, multi-course dining experience that honors the historic landscapes and deep culinary traditions of Middle Eastern cuisine.
This evening is an intentional study in balance—where the earthy, tart brightness of sumac, the delicate, golden warmth of saffron, and the freshness of regional herbs harmonize across five meticulously curated courses. Our chef-driven menu strips away the predictable and instead takes traditional regional techniques, reframing them with modern precision for the discerning gourmet table.
This is more than a dinner; it is an exploration of the timeless spices that built empires and the legendary hospitality that defines the Levant. Pull up a chair under the evening lights for a night of rich aroma, exquisite craftsmanship, and exceptional company.
The Curated Menu
Every course of the Saffron & Sumac dinner tells a story of trade, soil, and technique. Prepare for a sensory progression designed to delight:
I. To Begin
Cheat Arayes Crisp, savory pita pockets filled with perfectly spiced, high-quality minced meat and fresh herbs, grilled to golden perfection.
II. The Soup
Sumac Roasted Cauliflower Soup A velvety, deeply comforting soup showcasing caramelized, sumac-infused roasted cauliflower with a vibrant, citrus-forward finish.
III. The Mid-Course
Levantine Pasta An artisanal pasta folded in a rich, traditional warm yogurt sauce, crowned with earthy sautéed mushrooms and buttery, toasted pine nuts.
IV. The Centerpiece
Pomegranate Short Ribs & Tabbouleh Slow-braised, fall-off-the-bone beef short ribs glazed in a tart, sweet pomegranate reduction, served alongside a crisp, parsley-heavy tabbouleh salad.
V. The Finale
Saffron Milk Cake A luxurious, sponge-soaked cake infused with golden saffron milk, topped with a delicate cream, fresh summer berries, and a dusting of crushed green pistachios.
Experience the Savor Moxie Standard
At Savor Moxie, we host monthly dinner affairs that merge fine dining with intimate, unforgettable atmospheres. We select only the highest-quality local and regional ingredients to execute our chef’s visions, ensuring that each plate placed before you is a masterpiece of texture and taste.
Intimate Seating: To ensure an exceptional level of service and connection, seats at our table are highly limited.
All-Inclusive: Your ticket includes the complete five-course dinner, curated pairings, and hospitality.
Reserve Your Seat at the Table
Our monthly dinner affairs consistently sell out well in advance. Secure your passport to the Levant and join us for this unique evening of culinary art.