Good News, Darling to leave spotlight and return as Nothing Major

The popular Des Moines bar will rebrand and reopen with a new concept after a decade in business.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 2:16pm

An abstract, minimalist illustration composed of sharp, angular shapes in black, white, and red, conceptually representing the transition from one bar to another.As one of Des Moines' most beloved bars closes its doors, the owners look to the future with an innovative new concept.Des Moines Today

After a decade of success as one of Des Moines' most popular bars, Good News, Darling will be closing its doors and reopening under a new name and concept. The bar, known for its speakeasy-style atmosphere and craft cocktails, will transition to a new identity called Nothing Major later this year.

Why it matters

The closure of Good News, Darling marks the end of an era for the Des Moines nightlife scene, as the bar was a pioneer in reviving the city's downtown neighborhood. However, the owners' decision to rebrand and reopen under a new name signals their commitment to evolving with the changing tastes and preferences of local patrons.

The details

Good News, Darling opened its doors a decade ago with the goal of reviving a struggling neighborhood in downtown Des Moines. The bar quickly became a local favorite, known for its intimate, speakeasy-inspired atmosphere and innovative craft cocktail menu. However, after years in the spotlight, the owners have decided it's time for a change, announcing that Good News, Darling will close and reopen as Nothing Major later this year.

  • Good News, Darling opened its doors 10 years ago.
  • The bar will be closing and reopening under a new name and concept later this year.

The players

Good News, Darling

A popular bar in Des Moines, Iowa that is known for its speakeasy-style atmosphere and craft cocktails.

Nothing Major

The new name and concept that Good News, Darling will be transitioning to later this year.

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What’s next

The owners of Good News, Darling have not yet announced an exact timeline for the bar's closure and reopening as Nothing Major, but they have said the transition will take place later this year.

The takeaway

The closure of Good News, Darling marks the end of an era for the Des Moines nightlife scene, but the owners' decision to rebrand and reopen under a new name signals their commitment to evolving with the changing tastes and preferences of local patrons. The transition to Nothing Major will be closely watched by the community as they bid farewell to a beloved institution and welcome a new concept.