5 Best Chinese Restaurants in Des Moines, Iowa to Try

Des Moines’ Chinese food scene delivers surprising quality and diversity for a Midwest city.

From authentic regional specialties to Iowa-influenced fusion, here’s where locals are getting their dumpling fix in 2025.

1. CZ Dumpling House

This East Village favorite specializes in northern Chinese dumplings and noodles made fresh daily in their open kitchen.

Their hand-folded dumplings feature perfect thin wrappers with juicy fillings, while their hand-pulled noodles showcase ideal chewy texture that only comes from traditional techniques.

2. Cool Basil

This Clive favorite balances authentic Chinese specialties with well-executed Thai dishes, creating a pan-Asian experience that satisfies diverse preferences.

Their General Tso’s chicken sets the local standard with the perfect balance of crispy, sweet, and spicy elements, while their extensive menu satisfies both those seeking familiar comfort foods and adventurous diners exploring authentic specialties.

3. Luu Brothers Noodle House

This Douglas Avenue gem delivers authentic regional Chinese specialties rarely found elsewhere in Iowa.

Their beef noodle soup features intensely flavorful broth that simmers for days, while their hand-pulled noodles showcase perfect chewy texture in both soup and stir-fried preparations.

4. Heavenly Asian Cuisine

This West Des Moines favorite serves legitimate Sichuan cuisine that doesn’t hold back on those numbing peppercorns and chili heat.

Their mapo tofu delivers that perfect balance of spicy, numbing, and savory flavors that define authentic Sichuan cooking, while the dry pot specialties allow custom spice levels from mild to face-melting.

5. Iowa Dragon

This innovative downtown concept combines traditional Chinese techniques with local ingredients in a fusion approach that celebrates the state’s agricultural bounty.

Their pork specialties featuring Iowa-raised meat showcase premium local ingredients through Chinese culinary techniques, while creative specials often incorporate unexpected corn belt influences into traditional preparations.