Dragon House in East Des Moines, Iowa, is a culinary gem that brings the rich flavors of authentic Chinese cuisine right to the heart of the city. Known for its warm atmosphere and exceptional service, Dragon House offers a diverse menu that caters to both traditional palates and adventurous eaters.
From classic dishes like General Tso’s chicken to lesser-known regional specialties, the menu is thoughtfully crafted to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re a regular customer or a first-time visitor, the vibrant flavors and quality ingredients make every meal a memorable experience.
Located conveniently in East Des Moines, Dragon House has become a favorite spot for families, professionals, and food enthusiasts alike. The menu reflects a commitment to authenticity and freshness, with many dishes prepared to order using recipes passed down through generations.
Diners will appreciate the balance of flavors, ranging from sweet and savory to spicy and tangy, offering a true taste of Chinese culinary tradition. The restaurant’s inviting ambiance and attentive staff make it a perfect choice for casual dinners, celebrations, or takeout.
Exploring the Dragon House menu reveals a world of culinary delights, from appetizers to desserts, with plenty of options to accommodate diverse dietary preferences. Whether you prefer meat, seafood, or vegetarian dishes, the menu is expansive and thoughtfully organized.
The combination of classic favorites and innovative options ensures that every visit brings something new to discover. Understanding the menu structure and standout dishes can greatly enhance your dining experience at Dragon House.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section at Dragon House serves as a delightful introduction to the meal, offering a variety of flavors and textures that excite the palate. These starters are designed to complement the main courses and provide a glimpse into the culinary style of the restaurant.
Popular choices include crispy spring rolls, savory potstickers, and flavorful dumplings. Each appetizer is crafted with fresh ingredients and balanced seasonings to ensure maximum taste without overwhelming the senses.
The menu also offers unique items like spicy wontons and crab rangoons, which are perfect for sharing.
Many appetizers are ideal for those who prefer lighter fare or want to sample multiple dishes before settling on an entrée. They also serve as excellent options for groups looking to enjoy a communal dining experience.
The appetizers are well-portioned and priced competitively, making them a great value addition to your meal.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy and filled with fresh vegetables and savory pork.
- Potstickers: Pan-fried dumplings with a juicy meat filling.
- Crab Rangoons: Creamy crab and cheese wrapped in a crispy shell.
- Spicy Wontons: Wontons tossed in a tangy chili oil sauce.
“The appetizers set the tone for a wonderful meal, balancing traditional flavors with a modern twist.” – Local Food Critic
Signature Entrees
Dragon House’s signature entrees showcase the heart of Chinese cuisine, featuring bold flavors and carefully prepared dishes that have become customer favorites. These entrees highlight the restaurant’s skill in combining classic techniques with fresh ingredients.
From the sweet and tangy General Tso’s Chicken to the aromatic Kung Pao Shrimp, each dish delivers a unique taste experience. The menu also includes flavorful beef and pork options that are marinated and cooked to perfection.
These entrees are generously portioned, making them ideal for both solo diners and sharing.
Many dishes can be customized in terms of spice level and ingredient preferences, allowing guests to tailor their meals to their liking. The balance of sauces, spices, and textures is carefully maintained to ensure every bite is satisfying.
Popular Signature Dishes
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| General Tso’s Chicken | Fried chicken, sweet chili sauce, broccoli | Sweet, spicy, and savory |
| Kung Pao Shrimp | Shrimp, peanuts, chili peppers | Spicy, nutty, slightly sweet |
| Beef with Broccoli | Beef strips, broccoli, garlic sauce | Savory, garlicky, rich |
| Sweet and Sour Pork | Pork, pineapple, bell peppers, vinegar sauce | Sweet, tangy, crisp |
Each entree is prepared fresh and designed to balance flavors and textures, ensuring a memorable dining experience every time.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Dragon House recognizes the importance of catering to diverse dietary needs and offers a robust selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. These options are crafted with the same attention to flavor and authenticity as the rest of the menu.
The vegetarian section includes dishes made with tofu, fresh vegetables, and flavorful sauces that avoid animal products without sacrificing taste. Vegan diners will appreciate the variety of stir-fried greens, mushroom-based dishes, and creative plant-based alternatives.
These options provide healthy, balanced meals that appeal to both vegetarians and those looking to reduce meat consumption.
The restaurant also offers customizable dishes, allowing guests to request modifications to suit their dietary restrictions. This flexibility ensures that everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal without compromise.
- Tofu with Mixed Vegetables: Silky tofu stir-fried with seasonal vegetables in a savory sauce.
- Vegetable Lo Mein: Noodles tossed with fresh veggies and a light soy-based sauce.
- Mushroom and Bok Choy Stir-Fry: Earthy mushrooms paired with tender bok choy.
- Spicy Szechuan Eggplant: Eggplant cooked in a bold, spicy sauce.
“Dragon House’s commitment to vegetarian and vegan cuisine makes it a top choice for plant-based diners in East Des Moines.” – Vegan Food Blogger
Rice and Noodle Dishes
Rice and noodles form the cornerstone of many Chinese meals, and Dragon House offers an extensive variety to complement their main dishes. These staples are prepared with care, using quality ingredients and authentic cooking methods.
From classic fried rice to lo mein and chow mein, the menu features options that can be paired with meats, seafood, or purely vegetables. Each dish is seasoned perfectly to enhance the accompanying entrees or to stand on its own as a satisfying meal.
The restaurant also highlights regional noodle specialties that bring a unique texture and flavor to the table. Whether you prefer thin, delicate noodles or thick, chewy varieties, Dragon House ensures an enjoyable experience with every bite.
Rice vs. Noodle Dishes
| Dish Type | Ingredients | Best Paired With |
| Fried Rice | Rice, eggs, peas, carrots, choice of meat | Savory entrees, stir-fries |
| Lo Mein | Soft noodles, vegetables, soy sauce, meat or tofu | Saucy dishes, spicy entrees |
| Chow Mein | Crispy noodles, vegetables, chicken or beef | Crunchy texture lovers, light entrees |
| Dan Dan Noodles | Spicy sesame sauce, ground pork, scallions | Spicy dishes, adventurous eaters |
Choosing the right rice or noodle dish can elevate your meal and enhance the overall flavor experience.
Soups and Sides
Soups and sides at Dragon House provide comforting and flavorful accompaniments that perfectly round out the meal. These options offer warmth and satisfaction, ideal for starting your meal or complementing the main courses.
The soup selections range from light broths to rich, hearty concoctions. Popular choices include hot and sour soup, egg drop soup, and wonton soup, each offering a distinct taste and texture.
These soups are made fresh daily and are praised for their balanced seasoning.
Sides such as steamed vegetables, fried rice, or egg rolls serve as excellent companions to the entrees. They can also be ordered separately for a lighter meal or as part of a sharing platter.
The variety ensures that diners can customize their meals to suit their preferences and appetites.
- Hot and Sour Soup: Spicy and tangy broth with tofu and mushrooms.
- Egg Drop Soup: Silky, smooth eggs in a savory chicken broth.
- Wonton Soup: Clear broth with delicate pork-filled wontons.
- Steamed Vegetables: Fresh seasonal vegetables lightly seasoned.
“The soups at Dragon House are a perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making them a must-try.” – Regular Patron
Desserts and Beverages
The dessert and beverage offerings at Dragon House provide a sweet and refreshing finish to your dining experience. While the focus remains on authentic Chinese flavors, the selection caters to a variety of tastes.
Desserts are typically light and not overly sweet, reflecting traditional Chinese preferences. Popular items include fried sesame balls, mango pudding, and almond cookies.
These treats offer a satisfying conclusion without being too heavy.
Beverages range from classic Chinese teas to soft drinks and specialty cocktails. The tea selection, including jasmine and oolong, is carefully chosen to complement the meal and aid digestion.
For those seeking non-alcoholic options, fresh juices and sodas are available.
- Fried Sesame Balls: Crispy exterior with sweet red bean filling.
- Mango Pudding: Creamy and fruity, a light dessert option.
- Almond Cookies: Crunchy and fragrant with a subtle nutty flavor.
- Jasmine Tea: Floral and aromatic, excellent with any meal.
“A perfect tea pairing can transform the dining experience, and Dragon House excels in this art.” – Tea Connoisseur
Ordering Tips and Dining Experience
Navigating the Dragon House menu is an enjoyable experience that can be enhanced by a few simple tips. Understanding the menu layout and popular dishes helps diners make informed choices that suit their tastes and dietary needs.
For first-time visitors, starting with a selection of appetizers and sharing signature entrees is a great way to experience the breadth of flavors. The staff at Dragon House are knowledgeable and eager to recommend dishes based on preferences and spice tolerance.
Takeout and delivery options are available and maintain the quality and freshness of the food. For those dining in, the ambiance is warm and inviting, with attention to detail in service and presentation.
The restaurant also accommodates special requests and dietary restrictions with ease.
- Ask for recommendations: Staff can guide you based on flavor profiles and dietary needs.
- Share dishes: Sampling multiple items allows for a broader taste experience.
- Customize spice levels: Most dishes can be adjusted to mild, medium, or spicy.
- Consider combos: Combination meals offer variety and value.
“Dining at Dragon House is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural and culinary journey.” – Frequent Customer
Conclusion
Dragon House in East Des Moines, Iowa, offers a rich and varied menu that celebrates the diversity of Chinese cuisine. From the enticing appetizers to the flavorful signature entrees, every dish is thoughtfully prepared to deliver authenticity and satisfaction.
The restaurant’s dedication to accommodating different dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan options, ensures that all diners feel welcome and cared for.
The balance of traditional flavors with modern culinary techniques creates an inviting dining atmosphere that appeals to both casual eaters and connoisseurs. With a well-curated selection of rice, noodles, soups, and desserts, Dragon House provides a complete dining experience that is both comforting and exciting.
Whether you’re enjoying a meal in their cozy dining room or ordering takeout to savor at home, the quality and flavor remain consistently impressive.
By paying attention to customer preferences and maintaining a commitment to freshness and authenticity, Dragon House continues to be a standout destination for Chinese cuisine in East Des Moines. It’s a place where every meal is an opportunity to explore new tastes and enjoy familiar favorites in a welcoming environment.
For those seeking a memorable culinary experience, Dragon House is undoubtedly a top choice worth visiting again and again.
