Iowa may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Asian cuisine, but the Hawkeye State has a surprisingly diverse food scene. From sushi to pho, Iowa has plenty of options for those craving Asian flavors. However, if you’re looking for the best of the best, you’ll want to check out the WOK restaurants in Iowa. Here’s a guide to the top spots for delicious dining experiences.
What is a WOK restaurant?
Before we dive into the best WOK restaurants in Iowa, let’s first define what a WOK restaurant is. A WOK is a versatile cooking vessel that originated in China. It’s a round-bottomed pan that’s perfect for stir-frying, deep-frying, and steaming. WOK restaurants specialize in dishes that are cooked in a WOK, such as stir-fry, fried rice, and chow mein.
Best WOK restaurants in Iowa
If you’re looking for the best WOK restaurants in Iowa, you won’t be disappointed. Here are some of the top spots to check out:
- China Inn – Located in Cedar Rapids, China Inn is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving up delicious Chinese cuisine for over 30 years. Their menu features classic dishes like Kung Pao chicken and moo shu pork, as well as more unique offerings like Szechuan-style frog legs.
- Wok in Motion – This Des Moines restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Chinese cuisine. Their menu features dishes like General Tso’s chicken and Mongolian beef, as well as vegetarian options like tofu stir-fry. They also offer a build-your-own stir-fry option, where you can choose your protein, veggies, and sauce.
- China Star – Located in Iowa City, China Star is a popular spot for both dine-in and takeout. Their menu features a wide variety of dishes, from sweet and sour chicken to shrimp lo mein. They also offer lunch specials for those looking for a quick and affordable meal.
- Wok This Way – This Ames restaurant offers a fusion of Chinese and Thai cuisine. Their menu features dishes like pad Thai and green curry, as well as classic Chinese dishes like moo shu pork. They also offer a variety of vegetarian options.
- China Palace – Located in Sioux City, China Palace has been serving up delicious Chinese cuisine for over 30 years. Their menu features classic dishes like egg rolls and fried rice, as well as more unique offerings like hot and sour soup and sesame chicken.
Iowa Chinese cuisine
While WOK restaurants are a great option for those craving Chinese cuisine, Iowa has plenty of other options as well. Here are some other top spots for delicious Chinese food in Iowa:
- China Garden – Located in Dubuque, China Garden offers a wide variety of Chinese dishes, from egg foo young to moo shu vegetables. They also offer a lunch buffet for those looking for a quick and affordable meal.
- China King – This Waterloo restaurant offers classic Chinese dishes like sweet and sour chicken and beef with broccoli. They also offer a variety of vegetarian options.
- China Wok – Located in Davenport, China Wok offers a variety of Chinese dishes, from lo mein to General Tso’s chicken. They also offer a lunch special menu for those looking for a quick and affordable meal.
- China Star Buffet – This Sioux City restaurant offers a buffet-style dining experience with a wide variety of Chinese dishes to choose from. They also offer sushi and seafood options.
- China House – Located in Cedar Falls, China House offers classic Chinese dishes like egg rolls and fried rice, as well as more unique offerings like Hunan-style beef.
Asian food in Iowa
If you’re looking for more than just Chinese cuisine, Iowa has plenty of other options for Asian food as well. Here are some top spots to check out:
- Wasabi Tao – Located in Des Moines, Wasabi Tao offers a variety of Japanese dishes, from sushi to ramen. They also offer a variety of sake and Japanese beer.
- Pho 85 – This Cedar Rapids restaurant specializes in Vietnamese cuisine, with a focus on pho. They also offer banh mi sandwiches and spring rolls.
- Thai Flavors – Located in Iowa City, Thai Flavors offers a variety of Thai dishes, from pad Thai to green curry. They also offer vegetarian and gluten-free options.
- Sakura Sushi & Hibachi – This Coralville restaurant offers both sushi and hibachi-style dining. They also offer a variety of Japanese appetizers, like edamame and gyoza.
- India Cafe – Located in Cedar Rapids, India Cafe offers a variety of Indian dishes, from chicken tikka masala to biryani. They also offer a lunch buffet for those looking for a quick and affordable meal.
Iowa dining scene
Overall, Iowa has a surprisingly diverse dining scene, with plenty of options for those craving Asian cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Thai, or Indian food, you’re sure to find something delicious in Iowa. So next time you’re looking for a tasty meal, be sure to check out one of the many WOK restaurants or other Asian food spots in Iowa.