Five Restaurants to Try During National Welcoming Week
There are many ways to create an environment of inclusion in your community from recognizing foreign-born residents and their contributions to offering inclusive events for all. According to Welcoming America, a strong spirit of unity that builds connections can create stronger communities economically, socially and culturally. In an effort to continue to drive togetherness, Greater Des Moines (DSM) celebrates National Welcoming Week now through Sunday, September 22.
One way to support this special week right here in DSM is to visit as many ethnic restaurants as possible in the region, while posting updates using #DSMUSA, #GLOBALDSM and #WELCOMINGWEEK2019. Find cuisine from the following cultures: African, Asian/South Asian, Latin/Central/South American, European/Mediterranean/Middle Eastern and Cajun/Creole/Caribbean. These ethnic restaurants add cultural and economic vibrancy to our community.
5 Downtown DSM Restaurants to Try During Welcoming Week
Blu Thai (Thai)
Asian/South Asian
215 E Walnut Street, Des Moines
Blu Thai offers the expected Thai menu items like Pad Thai and Yellow Curry, but they also carry an appetizer menu that won’t disappoint. Try the Avocado Rangoons, Shu Mai Dumplings or Deep-Fried Curry Turnovers. Eight different soup options are available as well, and you won’t want to leave without tasting the Mango Sticky Rice or Fried Banana Roll with Ice Cream.
Rolling Wok Café (Pan-Asian)
Asian/South Asian
1534 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines
Rolling Wok Café offers Vietnamese, Laotian, Chinese and Thai menu items to create a truly cultural experience. From Pho Brisket or Vermicelli to Szechwan or Kow Piak Sen, there is much to choose from at this E. Grand Avenue restaurant. Catering and carryout are also available.
Ceviche Bar (Cuban)
Latin/Central/South American
223 E Walnut Street, Des Moines
Ceviche Bar boasts ‘Happy Hour’ all day and the only authentic Cuban sandwich in DSM. Try out special menu items this week in the Historic East Village, including:
Monday: $6 Cubano Sandwich or Gourmet Burger
Tuesday: $9 Paella
Wednesday: BOGO Mojito or Mule Mix and Match
Thursday: Half-Off Small Plates
Friday-Saturday: Fedora Weekend = Free Shot of Havana Club if wearing a Fedora
Hessen Haus (German)
European/Mediterranean/Middle Eastern
101 4th Street, Des Moines
A favorite stop for many DSM foodies, Hessen Haus serves German fare and beer on top. Right now you can try out the following seasonal biers: Ayinger Oktober Fest-Märzen, Exile Oktoberfest, Hacker-Pschorr Oktoberfest Märzen, Hofbräu Oktoberfestbier, Oktoberfest – Bitburger Braugruppe (2019) and Paulaner Oktoberfest Märzen. Once seasonal selections are out, they’re out!
Olympic Flame (Greek)
European/Mediterranean/Middle Eastern
514 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines
The Olympic Flame has been open for more than 30 years in the Historic East Village neighborhood and more than 40 in DSM (previously located in the Merle Hay neighborhood). Greek specialties include appetizers such as Saganaki and Fried Squid, sandwiches like the Gyro and Falafel Sandwich, as well as dinner options including Lamb Chops, Souvlaki (Shish Kabob), Pasticcio and Moussaka.
See the full list of restaurants across the region.
Aside from dining out during the week, you can also attend culturally focused events such as the World Food & Music Festival taking place September 20-22 or the Peace Day 5k & International Festival on Sunday, September 22.
Anyone interested in hosting an event beyond Welcoming Week can reach out to Sanjita Pradhan at spradhan@DSMPartnership.com.
Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is a growing, vibrant community that offers the energy, sophistication, housing and attractions of a burgeoning city with a brilliant future. It’s also easy to visit with plentiful and affordable street and ramp parking options.
Through the Global DSM: International Talent Strategy, The Partnership works to establish Greater Des Moines (DSM) as a global community attracting and retaining foreign-born persons to the region. Check out more Global DSM stories.