5 Best Authentic Restaurants in Des Moines, Iowa to Try

Des Moines offers a rich culinary landscape with an array of authentic dining experiences.

Here are five authentic restaurants in Des Moines that you must try.

Centro

Centro offers modern Italian dishes in a chic and lively setting.

Try their Margherita Pizza, featuring fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato sauce.

Order the Fettuccine Alfredo, a creamy pasta dish with a rich cheese sauce.

Don’t miss their Tiramisu, a classic dessert with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese.

With its refined flavors and energetic ambiance, Centro is a must-visit for Italian cuisine lovers.

Flying Mango

Flying Mango serves up Southern-style barbecue and Creole cuisine in a relaxed setting.

Try their Smoked Brisket, slow-cooked and tender, with a tangy barbecue sauce.

Order the Jambalaya, a spicy rice dish with sausage, chicken, and shrimp.

Don’t miss their Bread Pudding, a sweet and rich dessert with a bourbon sauce.

With its hearty dishes and laid-back vibe, Flying Mango is a hidden gem for barbecue enthusiasts.

Django

Django offers French-inspired cuisine in a sophisticated yet casual setting.

Try their Coq au Vin, a classic dish featuring chicken braised in red wine.

Order the Moules Frites, mussels with a white wine sauce and crispy fries.

Don’t miss their Crème Brûlée, a decadent dessert with a caramelized sugar crust.

With its elegant dishes and inviting atmosphere, Django is a must-visit for French food lovers.

Tacos Mariana’s

Tacos Mariana’s serves authentic Mexican street food in a vibrant and casual setting.

Try their Al Pastor Tacos, featuring marinated pork and pineapple.

Order the Elote, grilled corn on the cob with cheese and chili powder.

Don’t miss their Churros, a sweet and crispy dessert dusted with cinnamon sugar.

With its bold flavors and festive ambiance, Tacos Mariana’s is a hidden gem for Mexican food enthusiasts.

Fong’s Pizza

Fong’s Pizza offers a unique fusion of Italian and Asian flavors in a fun and quirky setting.

Try their Crab Rangoon Pizza, featuring a creamy crab Rangoon filling on a crispy crust.

Order the Mongolian Beef Pizza, topped with savory beef and vegetables.

Don’t miss their Mai Tai Pizza, a tropical twist with pineapple and ham.

With its inventive dishes and lively atmosphere, Fong’s Pizza is a must-visit for fusion cuisine lovers.