Des Moines Crawl Series: Savoring Local Flavor and Fueling Economic Growth

Des Moines is stepping into the spotlight with a new, delicious way to experience the city: the Des Moines Crawl Series™. This innovative event series invites residents and visitors to explore the best eateries, specialty shops, and cultural spots along the waterfront district, all in one curated evening.

The concept is simple—and hard to resist: guests purchase a ticket for a progressive tasting experience featuring small bites, curated flights, and specialty drinks across multiple stops. The evening begins at local favorite Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant, continues to one of the city’s newest additions, Blue Sushi, then shifts gears at Waterland Arcade—a retro arcade bar packed with classic games, craft beers, and ciders—before ending on a sweet note celebrating their one year anniversary, PortoVino Italian Restaurant, a fine dining Italian restaurant that brings the rich, rustic flavors of Italy to your table.

At each stop, attendees enjoy distinctive flavors while connecting with local businesses and experiencing the spirit of the community firsthand.

Beyond the fun of tasting and exploring, the Crawl Series™ is expected to have a measurable impact on the local economy. Small businesses benefit from increased foot traffic, exposure to new customers, and opportunities for additional sales beyond the tasting experience. Participating eateries and shops gain valuable visibility, while the event fosters collaboration among local business owners, artists, and hospitality professionals.

The Puget Sound restaurant scene has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years, from labor shortages to rising costs and the lingering effects of the pandemic. Initiatives like the Des Moines Crawl Series™ provide a creative avenue to drive revenue, bring attention to local establishments, and remind communities of the vital role restaurants play in neighborhood life.

Plans are already underway to expand the Crawl Series™ to multiple cities across the Pacific Northwest, offering the same mix of culinary adventure, community engagement, and economic support. Restaurants, eateries, food trucks, and cities interested in joining this growing movement should contact Friends@SeattleMeansBusiness.com to learn more.

The Crawl also strengthens community ties. By connecting residents with local chefs, artisans, and cultural venues, the series highlights the character and creativity that make Des Moines unique. Attendees not only enjoy an evening of food and fun—they leave with a deeper appreciation for the people and places that shape their neighborhood.

Events like the Des Moines Crawl Series™ demonstrate how innovative, experience-driven programming can support small businesses, attract new audiences, and enhance a city's vibrancy. By pairing culinary adventure with community engagement, the Crawl Series™ is proving that economic growth and local pride can go hand in hand—one bite at a time.

About Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant

A beloved local staple, Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant sets the tone for the evening with a warm, festive kickoff. Guests are welcomed with a vibrant spread of appetizers—quesadillas, street tacos, nachos, and bean dip—paired with a small margarita shot to get the night started right. Known for its lively atmosphere and authentic flavors, Arturo’s offers the perfect introduction to the Des Moines Crawl, bringing people together over bold bites and great energy.

About Blue Fish Sushi

Opened in 2026, Blue Fish Sushi has quickly established itself as a standout in Des Moines’ Marina District. With its beautifully renovated interior and welcoming ambiance, it offers a refined yet approachable dining experience. During the crawl, guests will enjoy a visually stunning bento box presentation, along with the restaurant’s signature flaming volcano dish—an interactive, high-impact moment that’s as memorable as it is delicious. Thoughtfully crafted sushi and warm, attentive service make this stop a true highlight of the evening.

About Waterland Arcade

Located in the heart of Des Moines, Waterland Arcade brings together nostalgia and nightlife in one lively space. This retro-inspired arcade bar features over 50 classic arcade and pinball machines, paired with a rotating selection of craft beers and ciders. Whether you’re chasing high scores or just soaking in the atmosphere, Waterland Arcade delivers a playful, high-energy experience that’s perfect for a night out on the crawl.

About PortoVino Italian Restaurant

Tucked into the heart of Des Moines, PortoVino Ristorante Italiano offers a warm, inviting escape into the flavors of Italy. Known for its attentive service and beautifully crafted dishes, guests are treated to fresh, house-made pastas, rich sauces, and thoughtfully curated wines in a setting that feels both personal and refined.

As the final stop on the Des Moines Crawl Series™, PortoVino delivers a sweet and sophisticated finish. Guests will enjoy a curated wine tasting paired with dessert—an elegant, celebratory close that captures the essence of Italian hospitality and leaves a lasting impression.