W-Tao Sushi
400 Walnut St #101, Des Moines
(515) 777-3636
Recent Reviews
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This is our go to sushi restaurant in the metro! Highly recommend!
Great sushi. Great spicy egg drop! I go often
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This was not great sushi, will not go again. The fish was mushy, didn't seem fresh.
Looking at past reviews maybe we picked an off day, Hy Vee sushi would definitely been better.
Great sushi, cool atmosphere and service was great!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Angry Tuna Roll, Tuna Roll, Spicy Edamame
Disclaimer: I’ve never really been a fan of sushi or raw fish. In fact, I’ve often avoided it altogether. However, this particular experience has completely shifted my perspective on sushi, and I’m glad I gave it a chance.
From the moment we walked into the restaurant, the atmosphere was buzzing with energy. It wasn’t just the food that had everyone in a great mood—the place was packed with people clearly having a good time, talking, laughing, and enjoying their meals. There’s something about a lively environment that makes the experience so much better. We were greeted right away by a friendly host who welcomed us with a smile and got us seated immediately. I appreciated how seamless everything was from the start, as it set a positive tone for the rest of the meal.
Once seated, the server quickly asked us what we wanted to drink, giving us plenty of time to look over the menu. And let me tell you, that menu was packed. There were so many options that it felt almost overwhelming at first. I didn’t even know where to start. But, honestly, I see that as a good sign. I’d much rather have a ton of different choices than feel limited by a small menu, especially at a sushi restaurant where there are endless possibilities for combinations of ingredients and flavors.
Despite my initial hesitation (remember, I’m not a sushi person), my group encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone and try something new. They reminded me that this was the perfect opportunity to broaden my horizons and challenge my usual food preferences. After scanning the menu for a while, I decided to take the plunge and order the Miracle Roll. But that wasn’t all—I ended up trying the Black Dragon Roll and a few other rolls as well because we decided to share everything family-style. That was one of the best decisions we made. It allowed each of us to taste a variety of sushi without committing to just one dish, and it made the experience a lot more fun.
What initially drew me to the Miracle Roll was that it featured shrimp tempura, one of my all-time favorite foods. I figured if there was anything that would ease me into the world of sushi, it would be something with shrimp tempura in it! I have to say, I wasn’t disappointed. The tempura was crispy and delicious, just the way I like it, and the other ingredients complemented it perfectly. In fact, I’m already planning to order it again next time—perhaps alongside some ramen for a full, satisfying meal.
As for the Black Dragon Roll, that one surprised me even more. It had a crispy fish on top, with a sweet and tangy sauce drizzled on top. The sauce added just the right amount of sweetness without being overpowering, while the veggies inside gave it a fresh, crunchy bite. Even though the textures of sushi were new to me, I found them intriguing and, in the end, enjoyable. I ended up liking the Black Dragon Roll even more than the Miracle Roll, which I didn’t expect!
What started as a casual night out with friends turned into a culinary experience that changed my opinion of sushi completely. I left the restaurant feeling not only satisfied but excited to try sushi again in the future. I can now see why people rave about it—the variety of flavors and textures is something special, and there really is something for everyone, even if you’re not a fan of raw fish.
To top it off, the restaurant also has a full bar, which adds another layer to the experience. Whether you’re looking to have a fun evening with friends, enjoy a few drinks, or even plan a date night, this place is a fantastic option. It’s located downtown, so it’s in a prime spot if you’re in the mood for a lively night out. I’d highly recommend this place, not only for sushi lovers but for anyone who wants to step out of their comfort zone and try something new.
In conclusion, if you’re ever in the area and looking for a restaurant with a fun vibe, an extensive menu, and delicious sushi, this spot is
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Top notch Sushi in Des Moines! Decor and atmosphere are comfortable. The booths are very comfortable, we ended up staying longer and ordering another roll because we didn't want to leave!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Good sushi and a fair price, friendly service.
Dated location needs a remodel but overall great experience.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 4
Service: 4
A little dark for me but the food was excellent. Best egg-drop soup I have had.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Spicy Egg Drop Soup
Fast and friendly service. Sushi was fresh and delicious
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Tuna
Ordered via Doordash and was so very impressed with the food!! Recently move to the DSM area from Atlanta and was recommended to try out W-Tao. Highly recommend for visitors and locals to try this place out! Really enjoyed the Maki Combo B and spicy edamame!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Spicy Edamame
Restaurantji Recommends
Excellent food here. Highly recommend. We're from Oakland, Ca. and this is our go-to when we are in town.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Nigiri Sushi, Sashimi Deluxe
Had never been here, so i decided to stop by at around 545 pm. Got the philadelphia roll, greens salad and the spicy Edemame. All delicious!! Everyone was kind and accommodating and I cannot wait to come back again to try more rolls!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Spicy Edamame
Amazing rolls and great service. We had the King Crab Crunch, the Italian Stallion and Angry Tuna rolls. Could not decide which was our favorite they were all so delicious! Would be remiss if I didn’t mention their craft cocktails were so so good!!
Food was great and prepared quickly. The server was inattentive and I shouldn't have tipped as well as I did. Food priced well but I will try another place.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 2
Recommended dishes: Miso Soup, Sushi & Sashimi for One, California Roll, Tuna, Tuna Roll
Best sushi in town ❤️
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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