On your way out, Nahabedian recommends visiting Herb and Kathy Eckhouse’s La Quercia, a 20-minute drive south of the city in Norwalk, for “the stunning array of prosciutto and local ham sausages and products being made,” and The Cheese Shop of Des Moines for a quick cheese board, melt or toast.

Furthermore, A Dong is the local go-to spot for veggie spring rolls, curried tofu and vegetables, and an array of stir-fry options that can be made with tofu. While those looking for Indian food can find Alu Mattar (green peas and potatoes) and Alu Palak (spinach and potatoes) at Indian Star. Finally, if an eclectic mix of zombie art, mannequins, and veggie burgers sound like a fun time, visit Zombie Burger for a scary good time.

With 145 items on the menu (this is the type of place you just order by number) you're best served to put your fate in the hands of the knowledgeable staff who can help guide you. When in doubt, go for the Pho, a rice noodle soup served with basil, cilantro, bean sprouts, jalapeno, lime wedge, and choice of protein. Bonus pro tip – if you love Vietnamese food, check out Vietnam Café in Merle Hay Mall.

Since 1989, A Dong has been serving customers excellent Vietnamese food in downtown Des Moines. “The name Á Đông is Vietnamese for East Asian, which refers to both our heritage and the style of food that we serve,” says A Dong, and that style has been considered the best Vietnamese food in the city for several years running. Try their flavor-packed pho, other soup bowls, or gourmet rice bowls.

A Dong Vietnamese — Browse through nearly 180 menu items, and you’ll quickly see why A Dong has been a longtime staple and fan favorite in Downtown Des Moines. Pho, Bun, tableside firepot dishes, bubble tea — even a strong list of vegetarian items to consider. Stop in or order to-go and see why Downtown residents, visitors and workers love it here.

Known for its fast service and giant menu, this Vietnamese gem has been drawing big crowds since 1989. It's a can't-miss for vegetarians. There's a full line of rice and vermicelli dishes to order, but be sure to try some fresh spring rolls and grab a bubble tea for sipping.

, you'll find pre-WWII aircrafts and rare models from all over the world alongside military and aerobatic memorabilia that showcases Iowa's history in the skies. Then head to the Hall of Fame to learn more about the Iowans who've contributed to what aviation is today.

If you're in the mood for Vietnamese food, A Dong is the place to be. They offer a variety of dishes such as pho and banh mi sandwiches. They also have a wide selection of vegetarian and vegan options, making it a good place for those with dietary restriction.

New to the competition this year was the Sidekick Competition dish: som tum. Som tum is a spicy Thai salad made with julienned green papaya, cherry tomatoes, peanuts and chilies with a powerful dressing made from garlic, dried shrimp and fish sauce.

A Dong is a Vietnamese restaurant in downtown Des Moines with a large and varied menu. The have ample indoor seating and a parking lot, which makes it an easy place to hit up for lunch or dinner. They have a separate vegetarian section on the menu.

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (115 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (4.5/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5)- Type of cuisine: Asian, Vietnamese- Price: $- Address: 1511 High St, Des Moines, IA 50309-3109- Read more on Tripadvisor

don't listen to these uncouth bastards...well, actually A Dong is pretty good...but i'm partial to Pho 888 on 2nd, north of university. excellent selection and excellent food. TNT - MLK and Euclid - also does a wonderful Pho.

20 - Crispy egg noodles with beef, chicken, shrimp, and veggies. Go vegan or vegetarian when you drop by A Dong Restaurant located on High Street. They serve lunch and dinner without the need for advance reservations.

She found the broth “very good”—fairly anise-forward, though slightly on the sweet side for her tastes (sweeter than A Dong’s, she noted). Again, a personal preference.