via Marina Wood Fired Pizza & Italian Cafe

Located within Des Moines' quaint Marina District, via Marina Wood-Fired Italian Cafe is a welcoming Italian eatery that locals love. Following the prestigious Vera Pizza Napoletana Association guidelines, the restaurant uses authentic Italian ingredients and bakes its pizzas at 800 degrees in less than 90 seconds — the real deal. Known for its warm and casual atmosphere, attentive staff, and outstanding food, this café feels like a tucked-away trattoria you might stumble upon in Naples. Whether you're enjoying a romantic dinner or just dropping in for Happy Hour after a walk on the pier, Via Marina consistently delights with bold flavors and heartfelt service.

NEED TO KNOW:
-Variety of Menu Items: Compact but curated, the menu offers standout wood-fired pizzas, hand-tossed pastas, crisp salads, and shareable appetizers. Guests rave about dishes like the Cannelloni di Magro, homemade pasta filled with ricotta, spinach, and pecorino cheese, the Frutti di Mare loaded with seafood, capers, and Gaeta olives, and the shareable Antipasto Misto — a vibrant platter of marinated vegetables and cured meats. Don’t skip dessert: with five rotating options, there’s always something indulgent to end your meal. 
-Full Bar: Complement your meal with a glass of wine or explore the full bar for a craft cocktail surprise. Marina Views & Cozy Charm: Located near the Des Moines Marina, the café offers a scenic setting paired with a warm, rustic interior that invites you to linger.
-The Vibe: Heartfelt and Homey Step inside Via Marina and you’ll find flickering light, the aroma of wood fire, and a setting that feels more like a neighborhood dinner party than a restaurant. The staff treat you like family, and many diners say it’s the personal touches — warm greetings, helpful recommendations — that elevate the experience from a simple meal to something memorable.