25 Essential Des Moines Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Des Moines.
JAFRA
Washington
an everyday essential mediterranean restaurant address in Des Moines, pairing editorial magnetism with a Beam Score of 88.2.
Anthony's HomePort
Washington
Down-to-earth Pacific Northwest-based seafood chain serving a menu of hearty local catches.
Wally's Chowder House Broiler
Washington
Local seafood catches & New England-style chowder are offered at this casual, long-standing spot.
Auntie Irene's
Des Moines, Washington
Charming local stop for cafe fare, pastries, fair-trade coffee & ice cream, with a drive-thru.
via Marina Wood Fired Pizza & Italian Cafe
Des Moines, Washington
Chill Italian spot with a retro vibe for wood-fired Neapolitan pies, cocktails & local microbrews.
Pizzas Locas
Des Moines, Washington
Service options: Curbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeout. Highlights: Serves local specialty. Popular for: Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
Athens Pizza & Pasta
Des Moines, Washington
Informal eatery offering classic Italian grinders & pasta, plus made-to-order Greek pizzas.
Mandarin Kitchen
Des Moines, Washington
Casual restaurant offering Hunan, Sichwan, Mandarin & Cantonese classics plus house specialties.
Tandoori Slice
Des Moines, Washington
Service options: Curbside pickup, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
New Tokyo Teriyaki
Des Moines, Washington
Japanese favorites like yakisoba, tempura & katsu in no-frills counter-serve surrounds.
Fish and Chicken House; Indian & American Food
Des Moines, Washington
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot.
Arturo's Mexican Restaurant
Des Moines, Washington
Mexican staples like fajitas & enchiladas in a relaxed, unfussy space with happy hour.
Viva Mexico Restaurant
Des Moines, Washington
Local chain serving a menu of classic Mexican dishes in a relaxed, traditional setting.
Pho Dinh Restaurant
Des Moines, Washington
Vietnamese eatery offering noodle soups, banh mi & other specialties in casual, diner-style digs.
Church's Texas Chicken
Des Moines, Washington
Fast-food chain offering fried chicken, sandwiches, wings & Southern-influenced sides.
Birrieria Mi Tierra
Des Moines, Washington
Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service. Popular for: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
California Burrito
Des Moines, Washington
Fast food–style joint offering Mexican staples plus a salsa bar & classic drinks like horchata.
Tuscany at Des Moines Creek
Des Moines, Washington
Old-fashioned bar & restaurant, serving American & Mediterranean meals, plus homemade pies.
Taco Time
Des Moines, Washington
Established Mexican restaurant serving tacos, crisp burritos & kids' meals in a casual setting.
Des Moines DogHouse
Des Moines, Washington
Various hot dogs, sausages & sides are featured at this laid-back nook with a casual ambiance.
Taco Bell
Des Moines, Washington
Fast-food chain serving Mexican-inspired fare such as tacos, quesadillas & nachos.
Happy Teriyaki
Des Moines, Washington
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Wheelchair accessible seating.
Menuderia María
Des Moines, Washington
Service options: Delivery, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Serves local specialty. Popular for: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
McDonald's
Des Moines, Washington
Classic, long-running fast-food chain known for its burgers & fries.
Subway
Des Moines, Washington
Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.