Dragon House in East Des Moines stands out as a beacon for authentic Chinese cuisine, blending traditional flavors with modern culinary techniques. The restaurant’s menu is a vibrant showcase of dishes that appeal to both adventurous food lovers and those seeking comforting, familiar tastes.
Whether you’re craving a fiery Szechuan dish or the delicate balance of Cantonese flavors, Dragon House offers a diverse selection designed to satisfy every palate. The ambiance complements the menu perfectly, creating a dining experience that feels both welcoming and exciting.
Each dish is crafted with fresh ingredients and a dedication to quality, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence.
From appetizers that tease the taste buds to decadent entrees and satisfying sides, the Dragon House menu is thoughtfully organized to guide diners through a journey of flavors. The menu also highlights vegetarian options and gluten-free choices, ensuring inclusivity for all guests.
With a range of spice levels and ingredient combinations, each visit promises something new and memorable. The East Des Moines location has become a local favorite not just for its food, but for its friendly service and inviting atmosphere.
Whether dining in or ordering takeout, Dragon House guarantees an experience worth savoring.
Appetizers
The appetizer section at Dragon House East Des Moines offers a dynamic start to your meal, featuring classic favorites and unique creations. These starters are designed to awaken your palate and set the tone for the dishes that follow.
The menu balances crispy textures with bold flavors, providing options that range from light and fresh to richly spiced.
Popular choices include the Crab Rangoon, which combines creamy filling with a perfectly fried wrapper, and the Hot and Sour Soup, a tangy and spicy broth that warms from the first sip. Each appetizer is carefully prepared to highlight fresh ingredients and authentic seasoning.
The menu also offers vegetarian-friendly appetizers, ensuring that everyone finds something to enjoy.
Many appetizers are perfect for sharing, making them ideal for groups or families. The portion sizes are generous, encouraging diners to try multiple items and experience a variety of tastes.
- Crab Rangoon: Cream cheese and crab meat wrapped in crispy wontons
- Hot and Sour Soup: Spicy and tangy broth with tofu and bamboo shoots
- Spring Rolls: Fresh vegetables wrapped in delicate rice paper
- Potstickers: Pan-fried dumplings filled with pork or vegetables
“A perfect appetizer can elevate the entire dining experience, and Dragon House’s starters never disappoint.”
Signature Entrees
The signature entrees at Dragon House represent the heart of their menu, showcasing dishes that have won acclaim for their authentic flavors and masterful preparation. These meals often feature a balance between savory sauces, tender meats, and fresh vegetables, creating a harmonious blend that satisfies every craving.
Each entree is cooked to order, ensuring that the flavors are vibrant and the textures ideal. Popular dishes like General Tso’s Chicken and Mongolian Beef highlight the restaurant’s ability to balance sweetness with spice, offering a depth of flavor that keeps customers coming back.
The use of fresh garlic, ginger, and carefully selected spices underscores the commitment to authenticity.
For those seeking a lighter option, steamed dishes and stir-fries provide a healthy yet flavorful alternative. These entrees emphasize fresh vegetables and lean proteins, prepared with minimal oil and maximum taste.
Comparing Signature Dishes
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Spice Level |
| General Tso’s Chicken | Deep-fried chicken, sweet and spicy sauce | Sweet, tangy, slightly spicy | Medium |
| Mongolian Beef | Beef slices, scallions, soy-based sauce | Savory, slightly sweet | Low-Medium |
| Kung Pao Chicken | Chicken, peanuts, chili peppers | Spicy, nutty, savory | High |
| Orange Chicken | Crispy chicken, orange glaze | Sweet, citrusy, tangy | Low |
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Dragon House East Des Moines takes great care to cater to vegetarian and vegan diners, offering a variety of dishes crafted without animal products but full of flavor and texture. These options ensure that plant-based guests can enjoy a rich, satisfying meal without compromise.
The menu includes stir-fried vegetables, tofu dishes, and creative entrees that highlight the natural tastes of fresh ingredients. The chefs pay special attention to seasoning and preparation techniques, so these dishes are just as exciting as their meat-based counterparts.
From hearty tofu stir-fries to vegetable lo mein, the restaurant provides satisfying choices that balance nutrition and taste. The kitchen is also happy to accommodate special dietary requests, demonstrating a commitment to personalized service.
- Ma Po Tofu: Spicy tofu with fermented bean paste and chili oil
- Vegetable Lo Mein: Stir-fried noodles with mixed vegetables
- Buddha’s Delight: Mixed vegetable medley with savory sauce
- Steamed Vegetable Dumplings: Filled with fresh garden vegetables
“Delicious vegetarian food that doesn’t feel like an afterthought – Dragon House truly shines here.”
Soups and Sides
The soups and sides at Dragon House complement the main dishes and add variety to the meal. These offerings range from light and refreshing to warm and hearty, providing options suitable for any appetite or preference.
Soups such as Egg Drop and Wonton offer comforting flavors that are perfect as starters or accompaniments. The sides include classic fried rice and steamed jasmine rice, which balance the flavors of main entrees perfectly.
Customers appreciate the careful preparation and generous portions of these dishes.
Additionally, many sides are customizable, allowing diners to select ingredients or adjust spice levels to fit their tastes. This flexibility enhances the overall dining experience and ensures satisfaction.
- Egg Drop Soup: Silky broth with wispy egg ribbons
- Wonton Soup: Light broth with pork-filled wontons
- Fried Rice: Rice stir-fried with eggs, vegetables, and choice of meat
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy, fragrant rice perfect for any dish
Side Dish Pairing Tips
Choosing the right side dish can elevate your meal by balancing flavors and textures. For spicy entrees like Kung Pao Chicken, steamed jasmine rice is an excellent choice to cool the palate.
Fried rice complements milder dishes such as Beef with Broccoli, adding a savory richness.
Soups are ideal for warming up and cleansing the palate between bites, especially the Hot and Sour Soup, which offers a burst of tangy heat. When sharing a meal, consider ordering a variety of sides to provide contrast and keep the dining experience dynamic.
“Sides are not just fillers; they are integral to the harmony of a Chinese meal.”
Noodles and Fried Rice
Noodles and fried rice are staples in Chinese cuisine, and Dragon House East Des Moines delivers these classics with both authenticity and flair. Offering a range of preparations, the menu caters to those seeking comfort food as well as those eager to explore bold flavors.
The noodle dishes are prepared fresh daily, with options including chow mein, lo mein, and spicy Szechuan noodles. Each dish features a unique combination of sauces, vegetables, and proteins, reflecting the diversity of Chinese culinary traditions.
Fried rice is equally varied, with choices that include shrimp, chicken, pork, or vegetable-based options.
These dishes are popular among regulars for their satisfying portions and balanced seasoning. Whether you prefer a mild, savory profile or a spicy kick, the noodles and fried rice offerings have something to satisfy your cravings.
- Chicken Lo Mein: Soft noodles stir-fried with chicken and vegetables
- Beef Chow Mein: Crispy noodles with tender beef and mixed veggies
- Szechuan Spicy Noodles: Noodles tossed in a fiery chili sauce
- Vegetable Fried Rice: Classic fried rice with fresh garden vegetables
Noodles vs. Fried Rice: Choosing Your Carb
| Dish Type | Texture | Flavor Intensity | Best Paired With |
| Noodles | Soft or crispy, depending on preparation | Medium to high, often savory or spicy | Light to medium entrees, stir-fries |
| Fried Rice | Fluffy with slight crispiness | Medium, umami-rich | Hearty dishes, saucy entrees |
Desserts
To conclude your meal on a sweet note, Dragon House offers a thoughtfully curated dessert menu. These treats provide a balance between traditional Chinese sweets and popular favorites adapted to local tastes.
The desserts are designed to be satisfying without being overly heavy.
Favorites include the classic Fortune Cookies, a fun and light way to end the meal, as well as richer options like the Mango Pudding and Fried Ice Cream. The desserts feature fresh fruit, creamy textures, and subtle sweetness, making them a perfect finish after flavorful entrees.
Seasonal specials sometimes appear on the dessert menu, showcasing fresh ingredients and creative twists. Whether you prefer fruity, creamy, or crunchy desserts, Dragon House ensures a delightful conclusion to your dining experience.
- Mango Pudding: Smooth, fruity pudding topped with fresh mango pieces
- Fried Ice Cream: Crispy exterior with cold vanilla ice cream
- Sesame Balls: Deep-fried dough filled with sweet red bean paste
- Fortune Cookies: Crisp cookies with fun messages inside
“A perfect dessert is the final harmony in a symphony of flavors.”
Beverages
Dragon House complements its culinary offerings with a diverse beverage menu that caters to all tastes. From traditional Chinese teas to soft drinks and specialty cocktails, there is something for everyone to enjoy alongside their meal.
The tea selection includes jasmine, oolong, and green tea, each brewed to highlight subtle floral and earthy notes that enhance the dining experience. For those seeking something cold, the menu features sodas, iced teas, and unique house-made drinks such as lychee lemonade.
Alcoholic beverages include carefully curated beer and wine options, as well as classic cocktails with an Asian twist. The staff is knowledgeable and happy to recommend pairings that bring out the best in your chosen dishes.
- Jasmine Tea: Fragrant and soothing, perfect for cleansing the palate
- Lychee Lemonade: Refreshing and lightly sweetened with a tropical twist
- Asian-Inspired Cocktails: Includes Sake-tinis and Ginger Mojitos
- Selection of Beers and Wines: Handpicked to complement Chinese cuisine
Beverage Pairing Recommendations
Pairing beverages with your meal can elevate the flavors and create a more enjoyable dining experience. For spicy dishes, jasmine tea or a chilled lager can balance heat and refresh the palate.
Sweet dishes like Orange Chicken pair well with light white wines or fruity cocktails.
Non-alcoholic options such as lychee lemonade provide a flavorful alternative that complements both savory and sweet dishes. The key is to choose drinks that enhance rather than overpower the food, allowing each element to shine.
“The right beverage pairing transforms a meal into an unforgettable experience.”
Conclusion
The Dragon House East Des Moines menu is a comprehensive reflection of authentic Chinese cuisine carefully tailored to meet diverse tastes and dietary needs. Each category, from appetizers to desserts, showcases dishes made with fresh ingredients and expert preparation, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
The menu’s balance of traditional favorites and innovative dishes invites diners to explore a spectrum of flavors, textures, and aromas.
Whether you seek the comfort of classic entrees or the excitement of bold, spicy creations, Dragon House offers thoughtful options that cater to every preference. The inclusion of vegetarian and vegan dishes, along with customizable sides and beverage pairings, reflects a dedication to customer satisfaction and culinary excellence.
This attention to detail, combined with a welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, makes Dragon House a standout destination in East Des Moines for lovers of Chinese food.
Dining at Dragon House is more than just a meal – it’s an experience that delights the senses and invites you back time and time again to discover new flavors and favorites. The menu is a testament to the rich heritage and vibrant future of Chinese cuisine in the heart of Iowa.
