Dragon House East in Des Moines, Iowa, stands out as a vibrant culinary destination for lovers of authentic Chinese cuisine. Known for its rich flavors, extensive menu, and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant has garnered a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.
Whether you are craving traditional favorites or seeking to explore new taste sensations, the Dragon House East menu offers a carefully curated selection designed to satisfy a wide range of palates.
From savory appetizers to hearty entrees and delectable desserts, every dish showcases a commitment to quality ingredients and expert preparation. The menu balances classic dishes with contemporary twists, ensuring there is something exciting for everyone.
Its location in the heart of Des Moines makes it an accessible and welcoming spot for family dinners, casual lunches, or special occasions.
Exploring the Dragon House East menu reveals a culinary journey through the diverse regions of China, with each dish thoughtfully crafted to highlight authentic flavors. The restaurant’s passion for freshness and presentation shines through, making each meal a memorable experience.
Whether you are a longtime fan of Chinese food or new to the cuisine, Dragon House East offers a delightful dining adventure worth savoring.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizers at Dragon House East set the tone for a flavorful meal, featuring a variety of options that cater to different tastes. These starters range from crispy and crunchy to light and refreshing, providing the perfect introduction to the main courses that follow.
Popular choices include classic egg rolls, potstickers, and crab rangoons, each prepared with attention to authentic textures and seasoning. The menu also includes unique offerings such as spicy chicken wings and hot and sour soup, which are perfect for those seeking bold flavors right from the start.
Dragon House East prioritizes freshness in every bite, ensuring that appetizers are never greasy or overcooked. The portion sizes are generous, making these dishes suitable for sharing as part of a communal dining experience.
Recommended Starters
- Egg Rolls: Crispy exterior filled with seasoned vegetables and pork, served with sweet and sour sauce.
- Potstickers: Pan-fried dumplings stuffed with ground pork and cabbage, accompanied by a tangy dipping sauce.
- Crab Rangoons: Creamy crab filling wrapped in wonton skins, fried to golden perfection.
- Hot and Sour Soup: A balanced blend of spicy and tangy flavors with tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots.
“The appetizers at Dragon House East are the perfect way to awaken your palate and prepare for the delicious meal ahead.” – Local Food Critic
Signature Entrees
Dragon House East’s signature entrees are the heart of the menu, showcasing a range of dishes that highlight the depth and complexity of Chinese cooking. These entrees are crafted with fresh ingredients and bold seasonings, resulting in meals that are both satisfying and memorable.
From stir-fried classics to slow-cooked specialties, the entrees cater to diverse preferences, whether you favor spicy, sweet, or savory profiles. Each dish is presented with care, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to excellence and authenticity.
The menu also features options for those with dietary restrictions, including vegetarian and gluten-sensitive choices, ensuring everyone can find something delicious to enjoy.
Popular Signature Dishes
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| General Tso’s Chicken | Fried chicken, sweet chili sauce, broccoli | Sweet, spicy, and tangy |
| Beef and Broccoli | Marinated beef strips, broccoli, oyster sauce | Savory and umami-rich |
| Ma Po Tofu | Soft tofu, ground pork, spicy bean paste | Spicy and aromatic |
| Sweet and Sour Pork | Pork chunks, pineapple, bell peppers, tangy sauce | Sweet and tangy |
Each entree offers a unique taste experience, guaranteed to satisfy your craving for authentic Chinese cuisine.
Noodle and Rice Specialties
Noodles and rice are staples of Chinese cuisine, and Dragon House East excels in these categories with a variety of flavorful and hearty dishes. Whether you prefer a saucy noodle bowl or a perfectly fried rice dish, the menu has something to delight every appetite.
The noodles are crafted to maintain a perfect balance between chewiness and tenderness, while the rice dishes are cooked with a blend of spices and fresh vegetables to enhance their texture and taste. These dishes can be customized with your choice of protein, including chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu.
From comforting chow mein to vibrant fried rice, each dish is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to traditional preparation methods combined with contemporary flair.
Popular Noodle and Rice Dishes
- Chicken Chow Mein: Stir-fried noodles with vegetables and tender chicken in a savory sauce.
- Shrimp Fried Rice: Fragrant rice with shrimp, eggs, peas, and carrots, lightly seasoned for balance.
- Beef Lo Mein: Soft noodles tossed with marinated beef slices and mixed vegetables.
- Vegetable Fried Rice: A vegetarian option featuring a medley of fresh vegetables and fragrant rice.
“The noodle and rice specialties at Dragon House East are a comforting embrace of tradition and flavor, perfect for any meal.” – Satisfied Customer
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Dragon House East recognizes the importance of catering to vegetarian and vegan diners by offering a wide array of plant-based dishes. These options maintain the same high standards of flavor and presentation found throughout the menu.
The vegetarian and vegan selections include both classic dishes and innovative creations that use fresh vegetables, tofu, and flavorful sauces to deliver satisfying meals. These dishes are marked clearly on the menu to help guests make informed choices.
Whether you are committed to a plant-based diet or simply looking to incorporate more vegetables into your meal, Dragon House East provides delicious options that do not compromise on taste or authenticity.
Highlighted Plant-Based Dishes
- Vegetable Stir Fry: A colorful mix of seasonal vegetables sautéed with garlic and ginger.
- Tofu with Black Bean Sauce: Soft tofu cooked in a savory black bean sauce with bell peppers and onions.
- Vegan Spring Rolls: Crisp rolls filled with shredded vegetables and served with a tangy dipping sauce.
- Spicy Eggplant: Tender eggplant cooked in a flavorful chili garlic sauce.
These dishes demonstrate that vegetarian and vegan cuisine can be both exciting and deeply satisfying.
Soups and Side Dishes
The soups and side dishes at Dragon House East complement the main courses perfectly, offering additional layers of flavor and texture to your dining experience. These items are crafted to balance the richness of entrees with lighter, refreshing options.
Soups range from clear broths to hearty, spicy concoctions, while side dishes include steamed vegetables, fried rice, and dumplings. Each item is prepared with care to ensure it enhances the overall meal.
These options are ideal for sharing or for those looking to sample a variety of flavors during their visit.
Variety of Soups and Sides
| Item | Description | Best Paired With |
| Wonton Soup | Light broth with delicate pork-filled wontons and greens. | Appetizers or noodle dishes |
| Egg Drop Soup | Silky beaten eggs in seasoned chicken broth. | Light starters or entrees |
| Steamed Vegetables | Fresh seasonal vegetables lightly steamed. | Entrees with rich sauces |
| Fried Rice | Rice stir-fried with egg, vegetables, and choice of protein. | Almost any main dish |
“A well-chosen soup or side can elevate the entire meal, and Dragon House East knows just how to deliver.” – Culinary Enthusiast
Desserts and Sweet Treats
To round out the meal, Dragon House East offers a selection of desserts that blend traditional Chinese sweets with popular favorites. These desserts provide a delightful contrast to the savory dishes and add a satisfying end to the dining experience.
The dessert menu features items such as fortune cookies, almond cookies, and sweet sticky rice, as well as more indulgent options like fried ice cream. Each dessert is designed to be a perfect finishing touch, balancing sweetness with texture.
Whether you prefer something light or rich, the dessert offerings cater to varied tastes and ensure a pleasant conclusion to your meal.
Sweet Options to Consider
- Fried Ice Cream: Crispy shell surrounding cold, creamy ice cream with a drizzle of honey.
- Almond Cookies: Crunchy cookies with a fragrant almond flavor, perfect with tea.
- Sweet Sticky Rice: Glutinous rice with a hint of sweetness, often paired with mango.
- Fortune Cookies: Classic crispy cookies with an entertaining message inside.
A sweet finale that reflects the same attention to detail found throughout the Dragon House East menu.
Beverages and Drinks
Complementing the flavorful dishes, Dragon House East offers a thoughtfully curated drink menu that includes traditional and modern beverages. These drinks are carefully selected to enhance your dining experience and pair well with the diverse flavors found on the menu.
The beverage list features a variety of teas, soft drinks, and specialty cocktails, providing options for all ages and preferences. The teas, in particular, are a highlight, offering calming and aromatic notes that complement many dishes.
For those seeking something unique, the restaurant offers house specials and seasonal beverages that showcase creative blends and fresh ingredients.
Popular Drink Choices
| Beverage | Description | Perfect Pairing |
| Jasmine Tea | Fragrant floral tea served hot or iced. | Light appetizers and seafood dishes |
| Soy Milk | Rich, creamy plant-based milk, served chilled. | Spicy entrees or desserts |
| Lychee Martini | A cocktail blending lychee fruit with vodka and sweet notes. | Special occasions or dinner parties |
| Soft Drinks | Classic sodas and sparkling waters. | Casual dining and family meals |
“The right drink can transform a meal, and Dragon House East’s beverage selection is designed to do just that.” – Beverage Connoisseur
Conclusion
Dragon House East in Des Moines, Iowa, offers a richly diverse and carefully crafted menu that celebrates the best of Chinese cuisine. From the tantalizing appetizers to the hearty entrees, flavorful noodles, and satisfying desserts, each dish reflects a dedication to quality, authenticity, and innovation.
The restaurant’s commitment to accommodating different dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan options, ensures that every guest can enjoy a memorable meal. The thoughtfully curated beverage list further enhances the dining experience, providing perfect pairings for the variety of flavors on offer.
Whether you are a seasoned fan of Chinese food or exploring it for the first time, Dragon House East provides an inviting atmosphere and a menu that invites you to savor the rich traditions of Chinese cooking.
Its location in Des Moines makes it a convenient and cherished spot for casual meals, family gatherings, or special celebrations. The depth and breadth of the menu make it clear why Dragon House East remains a beloved destination for authentic and delicious Chinese cuisine.
