Lucky Lotus — Restaurant in Des Moines

New to Des Moines. $5 for a small Thai tea is hilarious lol. It’s not even a large cup like most small businesses do but it tasted good. I appreciate the decor it’s a beautiful place, awesome atmosphere. If I wasn’t in a rush I’d have dined in and really enjoyed the experience. Unfortunately I had to order my food as take out because I was under the impression it’s faster, 10-15 min I was told...took around 30. I asked if I could still sit down and I was directed towards some waiting chairs…as pictured with no table to eat my food.. I was at least going to clean up after myself but I suppose spending $40 wasnt enough to warrant being able to enjoy my food unless I’m fully dining in. The hospitality was def not there. Not a single smile on the employees faces. I felt unwelcomed since I started ordering my food.

Overall, the bing bing 5 special beef wrap tastes great, but I’m not a fan of their wonton “soup” its a 6/10 wouldn’t go out of my way to get it again + couldn’t drink the broth it was basically pork water, and the sesame balls were okay, they need some condensed milk on the side to make it 10x better.

The vibe of the place is nice but I don’t think I’d come back; food is overpriced for the...

The service was great. The atmosphere was fun and felt very festive. It wasn't too loud and wasn't too crowded, though the tables in the corner under the umbrella covered ceiling were all taken. As far as the food: -the rangoons were overly sweet cream cheese filled, no texture or any crab (which I knew) but it was kind of like eating a mouthful of frosting. -The yuzu Brussels were crispy (and topped with puffed rice), but I wish there had been more of the yuzu to it. -The laab was actually really good, if a bit salty. Flavorful, well cooked, and seasoned nicely. Served with sticky rice and lettuce for wraps. -The panang came with jasmine rice. And it just didn't have much flavor. The shrimp were all cooked, but when I tried some rice with the panang "sauce", there was barely any flavor. I added some Sriracha to jazz it up, but was expecting a lot more out of a curry. -Thai tea was great! A good balance of tea and milk.

I'll chalk it up to an off night in the kitchen given some of the amazing reviews this place has. And hopefully visit again if I ever get back...

My husband and I split an order of the Lucky Tofu, the Bing Bing Wrap (curried potato), and the Bun Noodle Salad (lucky veggie).

ALL of it was so good. I thought the price of the salad was a little steep at $13, but the serving was so generous that it was more than worth the cost. Also, for those who don't know what nam khao is (I didn't), it's a fried, crispy, seasoned rice served with the Bun Noodle Salad. It's a real treat, and really makes the dish.

The pancake wrap on the Bing Bing Wrap was surprisingly light, and reminded me more of a flaky pastry. The curry filling was rich and flavorful. Although it's under "snacks" on the menu, the wrap is big enough to function as an entree.

Lastly, the Lucky Tofu was crispy and the pieces were a good size -- but my husband and I agreed that the real star was the citrus vinaigrette dipping sauce. I could drink that stuff by the glass.

All of this was ordered to-go, and was packaged up nicely and stayed hot and fresh-tasting even after a 30 min drive.

Will definitely be...