"In the mid-1970s, governor Robert D. Ray invited refugees from the Vietnam War to resettle in Iowa, stirring new flavors into the Des Moines melting pot in the process. One of the city’s best (and coziest) spots, Pho 515 (named after north-central Iowa’s area code) is tucked away inside C Fresh Market. Regardless of whether you’re shopping at the Asian grocery store or not, 515 is worth the trip to savor bountiful bowls of aromatic and soul-warming soup, banh mi, and other sandwiches overflowing with herbs. Along with pho, don’t miss the wonton soup." - Karla Walsh