Beyond the Arcade: Unearthing Des Moines' Seafood Gem at Wally's

I found myself in Des Moines last weekend, ostensibly to check out an old friend's new shop nearby. With some time to kill, I wandered into Waterland Arcade, spending a solid hour reliving my youth with pinball and classic cabinets. All that button-mashing worked up an appetite, and Wally's Chowder House Broiler, a name I’d heard whispered in local circles, was just the ticket.

From the moment you step inside, Wally's feels like it's been a fixture for decades, in the best possible way. It’s not flashy, but warm and inviting, the kind of place where families gather, and regulars chat with the servers. There’s a comforting hum that tells you this is where good food and good company meet.

While their namesake chowder is certainly a draw, the menu holds plenty of other treasures. I started with the Fresh Dungeness Shredded Crab Cocktail ($34.99). What a way to begin! The crab was sweet and tender, clearly handled with care, served simply to let its natural flavor shine. It’s a testament to starting with excellent ingredients.

Next, I couldn’t resist trying the Prawn Quesadilla ($15.99). It sounded like an unusual pairing, but it delivered. The prawns were plump, cooked just right, nestled in melted cheese and a light tortilla – a surprisingly harmonious combination that felt inventive without being fussy.

For something to share, or perhaps to keep all to myself, the Calamari Fries ($15.99) were a hit. Instead of rings, these delicate strips were lightly battered and fried, offering a satisfying crunch without any chewiness. They manage to elevate a casual appetizer to something genuinely enjoyable.

My main focus, though, was their take on a classic: a Crab Cake One ($30.99). I’m particular about crab cakes – I want crab, not filler. Wally’s delivered. It was packed with sweet, flaky crab meat, seared to a beautiful golden brown. You could taste the ocean in every bite, a clear sign of quality sourcing and skillful preparation.

Alongside, the Homemade Coleslaw Cup ($5.99) was crisp and bright, a welcome foil to the richer dishes, and their Garlic Cheese Bread Half ($8.99) arrived perfectly toasted, oozing with cheese and fragrant with garlic. Simple pleasures, executed flawlessly.

Before I left, I noticed the Coconut Prawns ($23.99) passing by my table, looking perfectly golden and plump. It’s on my list for next time, along with exploring more of the surrounding area. I'm thinking a walk through the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden could be a lovely prelude to another meal here, or perhaps a leisurely afternoon at Saltwater State Park.

Wally's isn't trying to reinvent the wheel; they're simply committed to doing the classics well, using good ingredients, and serving them in a welcoming environment. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why you love eating out – not for the theatrics, but for the solid, comforting flavors and the feeling of a meal well spent. If you find yourself in Des Moines, perhaps after a visit to the arcade or a stroll along the sound, Wally's Chowder House Broiler is a truly dependable spot to refuel and savor some honest, delicious seafood.