In a time when many fast-casual restaurants focus on flashy logos and big company systems, Charlotte’s Kitchen keeps things simple. It serves chicken made with care and comfort. What started as a small food truck dream between two close friends has grown into one of the most popular local restaurants in central Iowa. The story is built on friendship, family, and home-style cooking.
Now, Charlotte’s Kitchen is getting ready to open its fourth restaurant in the Des Moines area. The new location will be in Waukee along University Avenue near Grand Prairie Parkway. It will have both dine-in seating and a drive-thru.
The new restaurant will be built at 1165 S.E. University Ave. on about one acre of land. The building will be one story and about 2,425 square feet. Co-founder Michael Hanstad said he hopes the restaurant will open in September or October of this year.
From food truck dream to local success
Charlotte’s Kitchen was founded by Michael Hanstad and Robert Doan. The two were classmates at Johnston High School and later reconnected after college. In 2019, Hanstad shared an idea with Doan: start a food truck focused mainly on chicken. At the time, there were not many local food trucks in the Des Moines area that specialized in chicken.
Doan quickly agreed to join him. That summer, they took their food truck to farmers markets, office parks, and community events. Step by step, they built a group of loyal customers.
After only nine months, a big opportunity came up. A former Dairy Queen building in Johnston became available. The two friends decided to open their first permanent restaurant there. In February 2021, Charlotte’s Kitchen opened its first brick-and-mortar location. It was mainly a drive-thru at first, which worked well during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A restaurant inspired by Grandma Charlotte
The name Charlotte’s Kitchen is not just a brand name. It honors Hanstad’s grandmother, Charlotte.
When he was young, Hanstad spent time at his grandmother’s house for what he called “Grandma Camps.” There, he learned how to bake bread, make jam, and cook comforting meals from scratch. Those memories stayed with him and shaped his love for food.
Grandma Charlotte inspired more than just the restaurant’s name. She inspired its mission. The founders want every meal to taste like it came from her kitchen — warm, homemade, and made with care.
What’s on the menu?
Charlotte’s Kitchen is known for its fried and grilled chicken sandwiches. Customers can choose to have their chicken as a sandwich, wrap, or salad. This gives people different ways to enjoy the same flavors.
The menu also includes:
- Chicken tenders
- Side dishes
- Desserts
- Ice cream shakes
The restaurant also offers monthly special items with creative and fun flavor combinations. The team pays close attention to flavor and seasoning, making sure each meal tastes thoughtful and well prepared.
Customer favorites
Some menu items have become especially popular with customers:
- Crab Rangoon chicken sandwich – A unique sandwich with creamy and crispy textures.
- Nashville hot chicken sandwich – Spicy, but not too overpowering.
- Chicken tenders – Many customers say they are the best in the Des Moines area.
- Macaroni and cheese – Rich and comforting.
- Brussels sprouts – A surprising favorite that adds something fresh to the meal.
Where to find Charlotte’s Kitchen
The first restaurant in Johnston is often called “The Original.” After its success, the founders expanded to other communities that supported their food truck early on.
Today, Charlotte’s Kitchen has three open locations, with a fourth coming soon.
Current locations:
- 6150 Merle Hay Road, Johnston — 515-859-6257
- 102 N. Jefferson Way, Indianola — 515-962-5080
- 109 Eighth St. S.E., Altoona — 515-513-0919 (drive-thru only, with outdoor seating)
Coming soon:
- 1165 S.E. University Ave., Waukee — expected to open in September or October
What began as a small food truck has grown into a well-loved local restaurant. Even as it expands, Charlotte’s Kitchen continues to focus on simple food, strong community ties, and meals that feel like home.
I’m Emma Parker, the writer and founder behind Emma’s Home Guide. This blog was created to share practical ideas, honest experiences, and helpful guidance for everyday living. My goal is to make home life feel easier, warmer, and more enjoyable, without pressure or perfection.
