The Best of Des Moines WA

Best restaurants in Des Moines WA

Des Moines, Washington, may be a small waterfront city, but it offers an impressive range of dining options that reflect the Pacific Northwest’s culinary strengths. From fresh seafood pulled straight from Puget Sound to cozy neighborhood cafes and globally inspired kitchens, visitors and residents alike can enjoy a diverse restaurant scene. The following guide highlights some of the best restaurants in Des Moines, WA, while also integrating nearby attractions, schools, and neighborhoods to help you plan a complete visit or evaluate the area as a potential place to live.

To begin, Anthony’s HomePort Des Moines stands out as one of the city’s premier dining destinations. Located right on the marina, it pairs sweeping views of the water and mountains with a menu centered on local seafood. Diners can enjoy wild salmon, Dungeness crab, and seasonal shellfish, all prepared with classic Pacific Northwest flair. Its polished yet relaxed atmosphere makes Anthony’s ideal for special occasions, business dinners, or elegant date nights, and its proximity to the Des Moines Marina and waterfront park makes it convenient for tourists taking a stroll along the pier.

Equally popular with both locals and visitors, Salty’s at Redondo Beach lies just a short drive south of central Des Moines. Technically in nearby Des Moines–adjacent Redondo, this waterfront institution is famed for its extensive brunch, premium seafood, and floor-to-ceiling water views. The restaurant often features fresh oysters, Alaskan halibut, and creative seasonal dishes. Thanks to its picturesque location, Salty’s is also a natural stop for travelers exploring fun tourist destinations such as Redondo Beach, the boardwalk, and the MaST Center Aquarium.

For those seeking a more casual yet still high-quality option, Wally’s Chowder House is a local favorite that consistently earns praise. Known for its hearty clam chowder, fish and chips, and home-style seafood dishes, Wally’s offers a welcoming environment with generous portions. Its location near the Des Moines waterfront makes it easy to combine a meal with a visit to the Des Moines Beach Park or a walk along the pier, making it an excellent choice for families and day trippers.

In addition to its seafood-centric spots, Des Moines also offers a range of international flavors. Marina Wood Fired Pizza & Italian Café provides artisan pizzas, fresh pastas, and rustic Italian comfort food in a warm setting. With its wood-fired oven and carefully selected ingredients, the restaurant appeals to diners looking for elevated yet approachable Italian cuisine. Its central location also means that residents of some of the best neighborhoods in Des Moines, such as those near the marina and downtown core, can walk or take a short drive for a convenient evening out.

Another standout is Mandu, a restaurant that brings Korean flavors to the Des Moines area. Here, guests can find dishes like bibimbap, Korean fried chicken, and comforting stews. The contemporary yet relaxed atmosphere makes it a favorite gathering place for both families and young professionals. As Des Moines continues to grow, the presence of diverse eateries like Mandu highlights the city’s evolving character and appeal to new residents searching for vibrant, livable neighborhoods.

A short drive from the water, Des Moines’ dining scene intersects with some of the city’s best schools and family-friendly areas. For example, near desirable neighborhoods served by the Highline Public Schools system, diners will find small cafes and bakeries that add to the community feel. Cafes such as Auntie Irene’s and other local coffee shops offer pastries, sandwiches, and specialty coffees, serving as informal hubs where parents, students, and professionals gather before school or work. These everyday spots, while more modest than the major waterfront restaurants, play a critical role in the city’s lifestyle and sense of place.

Beyond the central core, you will also find family-run restaurants sprinkled through residential districts like Woodmont and North Hill, which are often cited among the best neighborhoods to live in Des Moines. Many of these establishments are low-key but highly regarded by locals, offering everything from Mexican and Thai food to classic American breakfasts. This pattern of small, well-loved eateries integrated into residential areas makes Des Moines especially appealing for those who value walkability and neighborhood character.

When considering Des Moines as a destination, it helps to look at how restaurants fit into the broader tourist experience. Visitors exploring the Des Moines Waterfront, the fishing pier, or the nearby Saltwater State Park often build their plans around mealtimes at the city’s better-known restaurants. For instance, a day of beachcombing or hiking in Saltwater State Park can naturally lead into a relaxed dinner at Anthony’s HomePort, Wally’s Chowder House, or one of the downtown bistros. In this way, dining becomes part of a larger itinerary that might also include exploring the marina, touring the MaST Center, or visiting other fun tourist destinations across South King County.

Furthermore, as prospective residents evaluate Des Moines, restaurants add depth to broader considerations like school quality and neighborhood livability. Families looking at some of the best schools in the area, including those within the Highline Public Schools network, often weigh the nearby amenities as part of their decision. Easy access to quality dining, from quick family dinners to special celebrations, contributes to overall satisfaction with a neighborhood. Areas with a good blend of residential stability, reputable schools, and convenient restaurants are frequently perceived as the most desirable places to live.

In summary, the best restaurants in Des Moines, WA, do more than simply serve excellent food; they anchor the city’s waterfront attractions, enhance the appeal of its neighborhoods, and complement the strengths of its schools and tourist destinations. Whether you are spending a day on the marina, exploring Saltwater State Park, evaluating top neighborhoods like Woodmont or North Hill, or touring local schools, the city’s varied dining options offer memorable meals at every turn. From elegant seafood dinners by the water to casual neighborhood cafés and international flavors, Des Moines’ restaurants help define the city’s character and make it an appealing place to visit and call home.

• Best Restaurants in Des Moines WA