Chinese Food in Des Moines

Valley Junction’s modern dining room highlights Gansu- and Sichuan-influenced dishes alongside Chinese-American comforts. Travelers praise the mapo tofu and dumplings, and the menu’s breadth makes it a group-friendly choice. Noted by TripAdvisor reviewers for flavor and service.

Family-run since 2002, this west-metro stalwart blends classic Chinese cooking with a few Vietnamese dishes and a full bar. Consistently recognized by Cityview readers as a top Chinese option, it’s a reliable pick for a sit-down meal.

An east-side mainstay with an old-school dining room and a huge menu, known for its Dinner for Two platter and speedy delivery radius. Locals rely on it for comforting Chinese-American standards at approachable prices.

A Sunday-night pop-up near Drake serving northern Chinese potstickers and wontons handmade from scratch. Featured by Axios for its farmers’ market potstickers, it’s an essential stop for dumpling lovers seeking something truly homespun.

East Side and proudly family-owned, Rolling Wok mixes Vietnamese, Lao, Thai, and Chinese dishes; locals swear by the lo mein and sesame chicken alongside Southeast Asian staples. Recognized by the Iowa Asian Alliance for community involvement.

A playful fusion icon that grew from the former King Ying Low space, now reopened in the East Village. Eater spotlighted its Chinese-inspired pies, and Axios covered the 2025 move; the crab rangoon pizza is a Des Moines rite of passage.

Family-run and friendly, Iron Wok delivers quick, wok-seared Chinese standards with a few Thai crossovers. Reviewers on TripAdvisor note consistent flavors and value, making it a dependable stop near shopping and entertainment.

A low-key West Des Moines fixture for classic Chinese-American comfort—think Mongolian beef, kung pao, and egg drop soup—prepared by a small team that knows its regulars. A steady neighborhood choice for takeout or a quick dine-in.

One of the metro’s few dim sum options, served at weekend lunch. Axios highlighted the spread from steamed BBQ pork buns to Chinese broccoli. Beyond dim sum, the everyday menu covers American Chinese standards done with care.

South Side loyalists frequent this independently run counter-service spot for hot-and-sour soup, sesame chicken, and straightforward, satisfying portions. It’s an everyday, neighborhood answer when you want quick, inexpensive Chinese comfort.