Introduction
That craving for savory, flavorful Chinese food hits hard, doesn’t it? The perfect blend of sweet, sour, spicy, and umami can be irresistible. Luckily, Des Moines has you covered with a diverse and growing Chinese food scene. While the Midwest might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of authentic Asian cuisine, Des Moines offers a surprisingly wide range of options, from traditional family-run restaurants to modern eateries pushing the boundaries of flavor. This guide is your passport to discovering the best Chinese food in Des Moines, ensuring you find the perfect spot to satisfy your next craving. We’ve carefully considered authenticity, quality of ingredients, customer reviews, and the variety of dishes offered to bring you this curated list.
A World of Flavors: Exploring Chinese Cuisine in Des Moines
One of the most exciting things about the Chinese food scene in Des Moines is its diversity. It’s not just about generic “Chinese food”; you can find establishments representing various regional styles, each with its own unique characteristics.
Cantonese
Known for its subtle flavors, emphasis on fresh ingredients, and use of steaming and stir-frying techniques. Think delicately flavored seafood dishes, flavorful wonton soups, and perfectly roasted meats.
Sichuan
Brace yourself for bold, spicy flavors! Sichuan cuisine is characterized by the use of Sichuan peppercorns, which create a unique numbing sensation in the mouth. Dishes often feature chili oil, garlic, and fermented black beans.
Hunan
Similar to Sichuan cuisine, Hunan food is also spicy, but it tends to be more sour and tangy. You’ll find more use of fresh chili peppers and vinegar.
Mandarin
This cuisine, originating from Northern China, often features dishes with wheat-based ingredients like noodles, dumplings, and steamed buns. Peking duck is a classic Mandarin dish.
American-Chinese
This is the style most familiar to many Americans. It features dishes like General Tso’s Chicken, Orange Chicken, and Chop Suey, often adapted to suit American tastes.
Understanding these regional differences can help you navigate menus and find the flavors you’re looking for. Now, let’s dive into the best places to experience these diverse flavors in Des Moines.
Des Moines’ Culinary Gems: Top Chinese Restaurants
Golden Dragon Restaurant
Nestled on the south side of Des Moines, Golden Dragon is a long-standing family-owned restaurant serving up classic Cantonese and American-Chinese dishes. With its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, it’s a great spot for a casual family dinner.
Signature Dishes: Sweet and Sour Chicken, Mongolian Beef, Shrimp Fried Rice
Why It’s Great: Known for its consistently delicious food, generous portions, and affordable prices. It’s a local favorite for takeout and delivery.
Website/Phone: Check online listings.
Taste of China Restaurant
Located in the heart of downtown, Taste of China offers a more modern and upscale dining experience. They specialize in authentic Sichuan cuisine, using high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.
Signature Dishes: Mapo Tofu (a spicy tofu dish with ground pork), Dan Dan Noodles (noodles in a spicy sesame sauce), Kung Pao Chicken (a classic Sichuan stir-fry).
Why It’s Great: Perfect for those looking for authentic Sichuan flavors. Be sure to specify your spice preference!
Website/Phone: Search online.
A Dong Restaurant
A hidden gem on the east side of Des Moines, A Dong is a small, no-frills restaurant that serves up some of the most authentic Vietnamese and Chinese dishes in the city.
Signature Dishes: Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), Bun Cha (grilled pork with rice noodles), Crispy Noodles with Seafood.
Why It’s Great: It may not look like much from the outside, but the food speaks for itself. They offer a wide variety of dishes, and everything is made fresh to order.
Website/Phone: Online directory or search engine.
Hunan King Restaurant
As the name suggests, Hunan King specializes in Hunan cuisine. Expect bold flavors, generous use of chili peppers, and a satisfying sourness in many dishes.
Signature Dishes: Hunan Beef, Twice Cooked Pork, Dry Fried Green Beans.
Why It’s Great: A great place to experience the unique flavors of Hunan cuisine. They offer a wide variety of spicy dishes, but also have milder options available.
Website/Phone: Look them up online.
China Star Buffet Restaurant
For those looking for variety and value, China Star Buffet is a popular choice. They offer a wide selection of Chinese-American dishes, as well as some Japanese and American options.
Signature Dishes: General Tso’s Chicken, Crab Rangoon, Spring Rolls.
Why It’s Great: A great option for large groups or families with picky eaters. There’s something for everyone at the buffet.
Website/Phone: Check their online listing.
Shang Hai Asian Cuisine
This family-owned and operated restaurant has become a staple in Des Moines. Shang Hai aims to deliver high-quality food with fresh ingredients, made in-house.
Signature Dishes: Egg Drop Soup, Shrimp Tempura, and House Special Lo Mein.
Why It’s Great: A comfortable atmosphere, fair price points, and a long-standing restaurant in Des Moines make it worth a try.
Website/Phone: Easily searchable online.
Honorable Mentions: More Delicious Options
While the restaurants listed above are some of the best in Des Moines, there are plenty of other options worth exploring. Consider checking out Lucky Bamboo, Hooyman’s, and Great Wall, all of which offer delicious Chinese cuisine at reasonable prices. These places will let you explore diverse flavors.
Ordering Like a Pro: Tips for Navigating Chinese Food Menus
Navigating a Chinese food menu can sometimes feel overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you order like a pro:
Understand the Terminology
Familiarize yourself with common terms like “Lo Mein” (stir-fried noodles), “Chow Mein” (crispy noodles), “Kung Pao” (stir-fried with peanuts and chili peppers), and “Mapo” (spicy tofu dish).
Dietary Restrictions? Don’t Be Afraid to Ask
Most Chinese restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions. If you’re vegetarian, vegan, or have allergies, be sure to let your server know. Many dishes can be easily modified.
Spice Levels
Don’t be afraid to ask about the spice level of a dish before ordering. Many Sichuan and Hunan dishes can be very spicy!
Family-Style is the Way to Go
Ordering family-style is a great way to try a variety of dishes. Order a few different entrees and share them with your table.
Leftovers are Your Friend
Chinese food often tastes even better the next day. Be sure to take your leftovers home and store them properly. Reheat in a pan for best results, or microwave.
Beyond the Plate: Experiencing Chinese Culture in Des Moines
While enjoying delicious Chinese food is a great way to experience Chinese culture, there are other ways to immerse yourself in the local community. Check out local Asian markets like C Fresh Market or the various small asian markets to buy ingredients and try your hand at cooking Chinese food at home. These markets offer a wide variety of authentic ingredients that you won’t find in mainstream grocery stores. Explore local cultural events.
Your Culinary Adventure Awaits
Des Moines’ Chinese food scene is a hidden gem, offering a diverse range of flavors and experiences. From authentic Sichuan dishes to classic Cantonese cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We hope this guide has inspired you to explore the restaurants mentioned and discover your own favorites. Don’t be afraid to try new things, ask questions, and most importantly, enjoy the journey! So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore the delicious Chinese food scene in Des Moines and happy eating.
