The Mullets restaurant chain, known for its mullet-themed decor and hearty breakfasts, is expanding in the Des Moines metro area with openings in Norwalk and Waukee next year. The Norwalk site will open in mid-June within a sports complex, while the Waukee location joins a new development. This growth follows recent franchising efforts by owner John Royer.
Mullets, a playful roadhouse featuring nostalgic sports memorabilia and a bar-and-grill atmosphere, announced plans for two new outlets in the Des Moines metropolitan area set for 2026. The chain, which emphasizes Iowa-style American breakfast and brunch, traces its origins to June 2010 when the original location opened at the confluence of the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers, offering views of downtown Des Moines and Principal Park.
John Royer acquired Mullets in 2016 from operators Full Court Press and initiated franchising with the 2024 debut in Ankeny. Prior expansions include a 2023 site in Uptown Ankeny and a 2024 opening in Ames, which closed after less than a year. Starting in May, the flagship Des Moines location at 1300 S.E. First St. will resume dinner service.
The Norwalk restaurant will occupy 1951 E. 18th St., Suite 101, as part of the 70-acre Norwalk Central development. Positioned in the SportsPlex USA complex, this over 6,000-square-foot venue will operate daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Features include garage doors opening to a patio and a family-friendly arcade.
In Waukee, the new spot at 1105 S.E. Pleasant View Drive will integrate into the Kettlestone Peak development along Grand Prairie Parkway.
Mullets distinguishes itself with a menu of classics like biscuits and gravy, pancakes, omelets, chicken and waffles, country fried steak, breakfast burritos, breakfast nachos, hash brown plates, and eggs Benedict, alongside sandwiches, po'boys, burgers, and pub fare. It also offers Bloody Marys and drink flights. The interior evokes the 1980s and 1990s with a soundtrack to match, homage to the mullet hairstyle through sports cards of athletes sporting the look, and framed photos of celebrities including Patrick Swayze, Mario Lopez as Slater from 'Saved by the Bell,' and Billy Ray Cyrus. The design captures a casual, humorous Iowa roadhouse vibe, with outdoor patios enhancing the communal feel at existing sites.