Having just returned from a year abroad in Asia, I was very keen to try some Asian cuisine back home here and see how it compared. This was my first time dining at Wasabi Tao and I was beyond impressed with my experience. The decor and vibe are very stylish and modern, which definitely adds an aire of sophistication but isn't "trying too hard." My friend and I went during happy hour from 4-6pm and got some amazing deals! Their cocktails were $5 (normally $8) and they had many different unique ones, not just run-of-the-mill standards (e.g. drinks with lychee puree, elderflower liqueur, etc.). They also had $5 sushi rolls, which were smaller standard rolls but still good. I ordered the "V.I.P. Roll," a specialty roll, as well. It was GREAT! It was a large salmon/avocado/asparagus roll with torched yellowtail on top - perfectly seasoned and the texture was spot on. Came with a spicy lychee sauce on drizzled over top and honey wasabi (which I didn't try but my friend enjoyed it). There were so many appetizing drinks, sushi rolls, etc. that we had a hard time deciding what to try! I also ordered the baked miso-soy eggplant...delicious. I would definitely recommend this to anyone, particularly sushi lovers. Wait staff was very friendly, kept our waters filled, and were quick to help when we asked. Definitely one of the best restaurant experiences I've had in Des Moines.

I was prepared to be underwhelmed (it's Des Moines after all), and quite the opposite I was absolutely floored. First off they had my favorite umeshu: Kinsen/Takara. Secondly they had a salmon toro tartar topped with roe that was amazingly blended with one of the tastiest yuzu sauces I've ever had. And their sushi and sashimi are just as good, with some of the best tamago I've had in years, and good white tuna and inari. I'd kill to have this place back in northern VA.

First time dining at Wasabi Tao and can't wait to go back! The food was exceptional and the service couldn't have been better. The tuna dumplings were amazing and both of the rolls we ordered (VIP Roll, Angry Tuna Roll) were excellent as well. Definitely our new favorite place for sushi in the metro!

My husband and I fell upon this place, waiting for a concert to start in Des Moines, this past January. Their sushi is the best sushi I have had to DATE - highly, highly recommend it! The lettuce wraps appetizer is delicious as well. The atmosphere is awesome - very cool, modern, and friendly. Service was fantastic.

Happened upon Wasabi Tao on Christmas day, yes - they are open on Christmas! Elegant dining room. They are big on Sushi but I had a simply chicken fried rice and it was very good, plus the spicy soup. Highly recommended. This is in the Kirkwood Hotel building (now apartments) with skywalk access through the interior stairwell.