A Local’s Guide to Des Moines, Washington Restaurants

Whether you're looking for takeout, drinks, a casual bite, or a celebration meal, Des Moines, Washington has options to spare. Though Des Moines is treated to the fresh local seafood available right off the coast, seafood restaurants aren't the only gems!

We've ditched our dinner prep and ventured out for meals plenty of times, so we feel qualified to show you around the neighborhood. Here is our list of the best and most popular restaurants in Des Moines, WA to fit your taste and mood. As an additional bonus, these options all offer take-out for a special night at home if you’d prefer to abstain from the crowds!

The Best Mexican Restaurants in Des Moines, WA

Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant

22204 Marine View Drive South, Des Moines, WA | 206–824–1155 | Website

Arturo’s family-owned and operated restaurant serves authentic, fresh Mexican staples like fajitas and enchiladas in a relaxed, unfussy space. Locals especially love Arturo’s for its tasty, moderately priced menu featuring traditional family recipes and unique takes on classic Mexican dishes—plus great happy hour specials and weekly live music.

Viva Mexico

26015 Pacific Hwy S, Des Moines, WA | 253-839-1903 | View on Google

Viva Mexico is a local chain that serves a menu of classic Mexican dishes, including burritos, tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, and quesadillas. It's right off the highway and looks unassuming from the outside, but that's how you know it's good! Don't miss margaritas during Happy Hour from 2 to 5 p.m. every Monday through Wednesday.

Cemitas Tepeaca 2

21624 Pacific Highway South, Des Moines, WA | 206-878-8202 | View on Google

Whether you desire a namesake Cemita—available in nine varieties all featuring homemade rolls (Try the ham!)—or other well-known Mexican dishes, you can find them at Cemitas Tepeaca 2 tucked away in a strip mall on Highway 99. You can dine in or take your food to go, or if you’re staying in for the night, you can opt for delivery.

The Best Chinese Restaurants in Des Moines, WA

Dragon Gate Restaurant

22315 Marine View Drive South, Des Moines, WA | 206-878-7481 | Website

At Dragon Gate Restaurant, you can find traditional Cantonese, Szechwan, and Mandarin cuisine in ample portions. The restaurant is the perfect setting to dine with a large group or as a family. They also have a considerable selection of lunch specials for about $10 or less available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Yummy Chinese

22228 Pacific Hwy S, Des Moines, WA | 206-651-7368 | Website

As the name denotes, Yummy Chinese, established in 2019, offers tasty on-site dining and takeout to Des Moines, WA. The restaurant, which is open for lunch and dinner every day except Wednesdays, is known for its modern interpretation of classic dishes created using high-quality, fresh ingredients.

Mandarin Kitchen

22612 7th Avenue South, Des Moines, WA | 206-878-8511 | Website

This family-owned and operated restaurant is one of the best local spots for Chinese food in Des Moines, WA. Well-known by locals for its friendly and attentive service, as well as a diverse and tasty menu offering Hunan, Szechwan, Mandarin, and Cantonese classics, plus house specialties. Stop by for their excellent lunch specials, dine-in for a casual family dinner, or call for a quick and satisfying take-out meal.

Other Top Notch Restaurants in Des Moines, WA

Wally's Chowder House Broiler

22531 Marine View Drive South, Des Moines, WA | 206-878-8140 | Website

This unique Northwest seafood restaurant overlooks The Puget Sound. The menu features local seafood catches, award-winning New England-style clam chowder, fish and chips, and more. Be sure to try their wild-caught seafood, juicy burgers, and homemade desserts too. The selections are practically endless and this place gets a special mention for clear and thoughtful menu notation for guests with dietary considerations such as gluten-free or vegan.

Auntie Irene’s

22504 Marine View Drive South, Des Moines, WA | 206-824-0249 | Website

Auntie Irene’s is the perfect spot to grab a quick bite for lunch, a cup of coffee, or a sweet treat. This family-owned shop offers a wide selection of soups, sandwiches, pastries, and beverages, including coffee, tea, milkshakes, and smoothies. They are open early every day of the week, and you can use the drive-thru, enjoy deck seating with a view of the Puget Sound, or take a cozy seat inside.

via Marina Wood Fired Pizza & Italian Cafe

22636 Marine View Drive South, Des Moines, WA | 206-592-2659 | Website

If you’re looking for great Italian food in Des Moines, WA, check out via Marina. Known by locals for its classic Italian dishes and authentic Neapolitan pizzas cooked in an imported wood-fired oven. Though they also offer pick-up and delivery, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the staff is friendly and helpful. They also offer a full bar with classic and specialty cocktails, an extensive Italian wine list, and local microbrews.

Anthony's HomePort Des Moines

421 South 227th Street, Des Moines, WA | 206-824-1947 | Website

This Pacific Northwest-based chain is a great waterfront restaurant for locals to gather, celebrate special occasions, or treat themselves to fancy take-out. Enjoy stunning views of the Puget Sound and excellent service in a warm, peaceful atmosphere at this regional favorite for seafood and more. The menu features fresh local catches, as well as quality steak cooked to order for those who are not seafood lovers—plus a great selection of regional wine and beer.

 MoMo's Kebab

21932 Marine View Dr. S, Des Moines, WA | 206-468-3516 | Website

This food truck gem soon-to-be restaurant is run by two brothers who hail from Alexandria, Egypt.  While currently pickup only, it is also easy to order online.  Catering is also a local favorite.  Trust us and stop by for a gyro, shawarma, or falafel during their daily hours of operation from 4 to 8.  These dishes feature sauce from scratch and attention to detail that will bring you back time and time again.

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