Des Moines Crawl Series™: Celebrating Culture, Community & Local Flavor
- May 30
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Produced by Seattle Means Business and presented in partnership with Friends of the Des Moines Marina Steps, the next chapter of the Des Moines Crawl Series™ is bringing fresh energy to the waterfront this summer with a vibrant Juneteenth-inspired evening celebrating culture, community, and the small businesses that help define the character of the Des Moines’ Marina District.
The evening begins Juneteenth at 5:00 pm at Blue Fish Sushi, a standout addition to Des Moines’ Marina District that quickly earned a loyal following after opening in 2026. Guests will gather to enjoy thoughtfully crafted sushi rolls, warm hospitality, and an elevated yet welcoming dining experience before setting off on the evening’s progressive tasting adventure. The beautifully renovated interior, cozy sushi bar, and attentive service create an atmosphere that feels both polished and personal. Located in the heart of the walkable Marina District, Blue Fish Sushi offers the perfect kickoff to an evening celebrating local flavor, connection, and community.
The second featured stop of the evening is Crow's Nest, a newly opened family-friendly pirate-themed bar and grill located in the former Tuscany space along Marine View Drive. Crow’s Nest offers made-from-scratch comfort food, breakfast favorites, burgers, homemade pies, and a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere designed to bring people together. Plans for the space include expanded bar offerings, sports viewing, several dart boards, a pool table, and additional nautical-inspired décor, adding even more energy to Des Moines’ growing marina dining scene.
The final stop of the evening is PortoVino Italian Restaurant, a family-owned Italian restaurant near the Marina, where guests can slow down and savor specialty desserts paired with curated wine tastings. Known for warm hospitality and rustic Italian flavors, PortoVino brings the spirit of old-world dining to the Des Moines waterfront. Already beloved in Renton for their original restaurant, Sansonina Ristorante Italiano, the family expanded to Des Moines to share classic Italian cuisine with a coastal twist.
From the moment guests arrive, they’ll notice the details that make the evening memorable — candlelight reflecting off wine glasses, comforting aromas drifting from the kitchen, music, conversation, and the unmistakable feeling of discovering something special.
The Crawl Series™ invites residents and visitors alike to experience the city in a fresh, interactive way. Guests purchase tickets to enjoy curated tastings, featured menu items, and themed experiences at participating stops throughout the evening. Along the route, attendees discover bold flavors, creative chefs, welcoming hospitality, and the unique personality that makes Des Moines such a special destination.
Tickets are just $45, plus tip! RSVP directly with Bettina Carey at 206-349-4297!
Pictures from April Des Moines Crawl:
