About Hugo’s Wood-Fired Kitchen
Mediterranean Flavors, Iowa Roots
Hugo’s is where the comfort of the Midwest meets the boldness of the Mediterranean. Set in the heart of Des Moines’ Drake neighborhood, Hugo’s was created by Chef and Owner Lynn, the visionary behind Table 128.
While Lynn’s primary focus and time are spent at Table 128, where he serves as Executive Chef and Owner, Hugo’s reflects another side of his culinary voice—Mediterranean cooking inspired by Italy’s wood-fired kitchens, Lebanon’s spice markets, Turkey’s coastlines, and the rustic charm of the Balkans.
Our goal is simple: to share food that feels warm, welcoming, and alive with flavor. Everything we do, from the first stretch of dough to the last sprinkle of herbs, is rooted in this idea.
What’s in a Name?
Hugo’s is named in honor of two very important Hughs in Lynn’s life—his young son, Hugh, and his late father, Hugh. “Hugo’s had a catchier ring to it,” Lynn admits with a smile, but it’s a name built on family, legacy, and love—exactly the qualities we hope you feel when you dine with us.
Our Story & Timeline
May 2013 – July 2021: Chef Lynn establishes Table 128 in Clive, introducing inventive yet approachable cooking that quickly becomes a local favorite.
2022–2023: Inspired by travels, ingredients, and a love of the Mediterranean, Lynn begins dreaming up a second concept—one centered around fire, flavor, and gathering.
May 1, 2024: Table 128 reopens at its new home in Gray’s Landing, downtown Des Moines, continuing its legacy with a refreshed space and renewed energy.
May 29, 2024: Hugo’s Wood-Fired Kitchen opens its doors, bringing Mediterranean-inspired flavors and wood-fired cooking to the Drake neighborhood.
The Kitchen at the Heart
Step inside Hugo’s and you’ll notice it immediately—the oven. Our custom Marra Forni wood-fired oven is the centerpiece of the kitchen and the soul of our menu.
Dough is stretched by hand and baked to blistered perfection.
Vegetables roast until sweet and smoky.
Seafood and meats take on just the right kiss of flame.
The result is food that’s alive with flavor: pizzas layered with Mediterranean ingredients, mezze plates to share, and entrées that celebrate seasonality. From margherita and Greek pizzas to lamb meatballs and baked feta, each dish is prepared to be savored.
Meet the Team
At Hugo’s, our small but mighty team of cooks, servers, bartenders, and hosts share one mission: to make you feel welcome. Hospitality here is personal and attentive, whether you’re on the patio, at the bar, or in the dining room.
Chef Lynn leads the culinary vision, bringing years of experience and creativity to the menu. Today, the front of house is led by General Manager Colby Brackett, Lynn’s partner in life and business. While Colby joined after Hugo’s opened, he now oversees the guest experience and day-to-day operations, helping carry forward the warm, community-driven spirit that defines both Hugo’s and their sister restaurant, Table 128.