A Game-Day Haven    

Locally owned Jamar’s Sports Bar and Grill in Des Moines is a go-to spot for good drinks, hearty comfort food, and an electric atmosphere on game days. With walls lined with TVs broadcasting all the latest sports action and a menu packed with crowd-pleasing favorites, you'll feel right at home. Run by local entrepreneur and event promoter Jamar Jones, the bar quickly became a community hub when it opened in September 2024 and has continued to expand with more special events.    

Need to Know:    
-Game Day and Party Central – Multiple large-screen TVs ensure you never miss a moment of the action. With a pool table, darts, karaoke, and a welcoming atmosphere, it's an ideal spot for group gatherings and celebrations.     
-Flavor-Packed Menu – From crispy, saucy wings to towering burgers, Jamar’s serves up comfort food done right. Their signature loaded fries are a must-try, and their selection of craft beers and specialty cocktails pairs perfectly with any meal. Whether you’re sharing a plate of nachos with friends or digging into a hearty steak, the menu has something for every appetite.    
-Weekend Entertainment – Beyond sports, Jamar’s turns up the fun with special events like trivia nights, paint n' sips, and DJ sets that keep the energy high.    
-The Vibe:   With a mix of casual comfort and high-energy excitement, Jamar’s Sports Bar and Grill is a go-to for game nights and good times. The cheers of fans, the smell of sizzling burgers, and the clink of drinks set the scene for a lively, welcoming space where every visit feels like a celebration.

Jamar’s Sports Bar and Grill

Tucked into the heart of Des Moines, Athens Pizza & Pasta has earned a loyal following for its hearty portions, friendly service, and soul-warming Mediterranean flavors. This neighborhood spot serves up comfort food that blends classic Italian-American dishes with beloved Greek specialties.    Whether you’re craving layers of cheesy lasagna, classic pizza, a zesty Greek salad, or a hearty gyro, Athens delivers. Longtime fans rave about the consistency—same delicious recipes, same welcoming vibe, year after year.     

Need to Know:    
Greek-Italian Fusion Menu: The menu mixes hearty Italian classics like spaghetti and grinders with Greek dishes such as spanakopita, gyro platters, and tzatziki with pita.   
Beloved Pizza Creations: Athens’ pizza is hand-tossed with a golden, chewy crust and loaded with toppings. The Athens Special—pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, green peppers, onions, and olives—is a fan favorite.    
Perfect for Takeout and Large Group Orders:  Large trays of pasta, salad, and garlic bread make Athens a popular go-to for family dinners, office lunches, and parties.    

The Vibe:  Comfortable and unpretentious, Athens Pizza & Pasta feels like the kind of restaurant where stories are shared over generous plates of food. The dining room is cozy, the kitchen is always humming, and there’s a sense of hospitality that makes you feel like you’re part of the family.

Athens Pizza & Pasta

Sound View Park – built on the lot that once housed the historic Van Gasken view home that was torn down in 2020 – is now open.    

“This unique space celebrates the history of the Des Moines region,” the city said in a statement.      

The city acquired the property by obtaining a $1+ million_ grant from the Washington Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO). An additional $95,000 was received from the RCO in March, 2022, with an additional $275,000 coming from the city.    

The park is contiguous with Overlook II Park, and provides a gathering space with sweeping vistas of Puget Sound, Vashon Island, Maury Island, and the Olympic Mountains.    

The City collaborated with the State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (DAHP), the RCO, and area Native American Tribes including Muckleshoot, Puyallup, and Snoqualmie, to incorporate artwork and native plantings into the design of the site. Additions are planned in the coming months.  “Incorporating local, Tribal art will acknowledge this special land and enhance the recreation experience through a beautifully designed open space,” the city added.    

The park is now open for community enjoyment. In consultation with local Tribes, native plant species that held special meaning and purpose to the land in the area are included in the landscaping. Some species include: Sala Snowberry, Red Flowering Currant, Wild Onion, Wild Ginger, Black Gooseberry, Wild Strawberry  Story Stones that tell Tribal legends are also included on the site. One of these tells the story of Lizard Woman, as translated by Muckleshoot Elder-Yikut: “There was? a boulder on the beach near Des Moines, known as White Rock. When the Snake People were going on an expedition to Vashon Island, Lizard Woman stayed behind and sunned herself on this rock. Accordingly, lizards are plentiful in this vicinity. “ Denino speculates that “Blanket Rock” (the father) lies to the south near Redondo Beach/Buenna (Federal Way), and “White Rock” (the daughter) i

Sound View Park

Second Love Coffee is a small-batch coffee roastery with an inviting cafe in downtown Des Moines. With its stylish interior, great music, locally-sourced pastries, and outdoor seating, this cafe is a must-visit. Founded in 2023 by two friends, Philip Mendoza and Scott Braaten, the brand is centered on ethical sourcing from small farms across the globe. They’re also deeply invested in the community, which is their “first love” (hence the business name), donating 2% of each sale to charitable causes.     

Highlights:    
-Ethical, Transparent Sourcing: If you check out the bags of roasted beans or the business’s website, you can read about the farms where the beans are grown. Each is carefully chosen for its mission and fair business practices. The brand also practices radical transparency, telling you exactly how much profit they make on each bag.    
-Unique Specialty Drinks: The menu gets creative, with specials like a pomegranate pistachio latte and black sesame vanilla.     
-Rotating Food Menu: Find treats sourced from a variety of local bakeries, such as Little Jaye, famous for its Rice Krispies treats made with Ruffles potato chips. On select days, you can order bagels, baguettes, and more.    
-Walkable to the Waterfront: Just blocks from the Des Moines Marina, it’s a perfect stop before or after exploring the pier, boardwalk, or farmers market.    
-The Vibe: Minimalist Charm with Soul  From the great playlist to the friendly service, Second Love Coffee feels like the perfect combination of a big city cafe and a small town gathering place.

Second Love Coffee Roasters

Serving the most delicious and sustainable poké bowls in the Northwest!

Just Poke Des Moines

For authentic Taiwanese bubble tea made with uncompromising quality, Sharetea in Des Moines, WA is a must-visit. Situated near the scenic shoreline and marina district, this boba destination delivers expertly brewed tea, perfectly chewy boba, and a menu that spans dozens of flavor-forward options. Known worldwide for its high standards and commitment to sourcing directly from Taiwan, Sharetea brings the original bubble tea experience straight to the heart of Seattle Southside.    

NEED TO KNOW    
-Over 50 Menu Options: From traditional milk teas to fruit teas, smoothies, and hot drinks, there's a drink for every mood and every season—plus limited-time creations that keep things exciting. Best-sellers include the Classic Pearl Milk Tea, Matcha Red Bean Milk Tea, and Thai Tea with boba—all brewed with real tea leaves and creamy richness. Fruit tea lovers gravitate toward the Mango Green Tea or Passionfruit Orange & Grapefruit blends for a zesty, juicy finish.    
-Customizable to Your Taste: Pick your sweetness, ice level, and toppings like boba, pudding, grass jelly, or aloe to make your drink exactly how you like it.    
-Quick & Friendly Service: The Des Moines location earns praise for its cheerful team and fast turnaround, making it a convenient stop during a walk around town or coastal drive.    

The Vibe:   Sharetea Des Moines keeps the spotlight on what matters most: the tea. The space is clean, simple, and efficient—designed for takeout or quick stops rather than long hangouts. Whether you're grabbing a mid-day refreshment or cooling down on a sunny shoreline stroll, the experience is always fast, friendly, and refreshingly low-key.

Sharetea Des Moines

Step into Auntie Irene’s in downtown Des Moines and you’ll immediately feel the warmth and coziness of this community cafe. For more than 25 years, the business has been known as Des Moines’ “Second Living Room.” Owner Susie Horton is a local who often works alongside the baristas and has built the cafe's reputation for exceptional service.     

There’s no question that it's a local favorite: on a typical morning, there is virtually never a break in service. From the comfort food to the festive seasonal decor to the friendly conversations all around, being inside this cafe feels like getting a hug from an old friend. It’s super kid-friendly (a bin of toys sits atop a small table low enough for a preschooler), and the baristas know the regulars' orders by heart.     

Need to Know:    
-Delicious Breakfast and Lunch Options: Auntie Irene’s opens bright and early and closes at 5 p.m., and there are plenty of hearty meals to choose from, including cold and grilled sandwiches (the turkey pesto and reuben are favorites), as well as bagels, salads, and soups of the day.     
-Signature Drinks: The iced white chocolate Americano is a huge hit—baristas say they make 100 a day. The cafe also has a unique drink, Auntie I’s Fav, which is an almond latte made with brown sugar and honey (it’s definitely on the sweeter side, but you can ask for it with half the sweetness if you prefer).    
-Sweets Galore: A glass case at the front is filled with treats from local bakeries such as Finale’s Gourmet Desserts. Favorites include the sour cream coffee cake, cinnamon rolls and chocolate banana bread. There’s also an ice cream case with 16 different flavors.    
-Merchandise: Near the cashier you can find a small selection of branded gear and kitschy, seasonal merch.      

The Vibe:    Auntie Irene’s is the rare cafe that lends itself to both laptop work and long, leisurely hangs. You can choose to sit in a quiet corner, at a round table with a group, or a high bar at the window with a view of Puget Sound

Auntie Irene's Coffee Shop

A Floral Boutique Blossoming with Charm and Elegance      

Iris & Peony Floral and Home is a locally owned floral and gift shop in downtown Des Moines. Founded by event design professionals Robyn Desimone and Shelly Tolo, the shop (which was originally in Burien), is a favorite for those seeking unique arrangements and distinctive home accents. Whether you're commemorating a special occasion or simply brightening your space, Iris & Peony offers a personalized and enchanting experience. To find the new location, head to S. 225th St. in Des Moines and walk down Backstage Alley, behind the Des Moines Theater.       

Need to Know:      
-Custom Floral Arrangements: Iris & Peony crafts bouquets that reflect individual tastes and the essence of each occasion.      
-Curated Home Décor: Beyond flowers, the boutique features a handpicked selection of upscale home décor items, gifts, and accessories, with a heavy emphasis on seasonal decor. Every few months, the inventory is completely refreshed with new items, creating a cozy, festive ambience. From vases of all sizes to decorative throw pillows to luxury candles and more, there's plenty to choose from, whether you're shopping for yourself or someone else.          
-The Vibe:  As a small, local business, Iris & Peony offers a personal touch. When you come in, there's a good chance you'll chat with the owner, who can help you find what you need.

Iris & Peony

Located just a few blocks from the scenic Des Moines Marina, Teacup offers a refreshing stop for boba and bites. This family-owned spot offers healthy, high-quality drinks and dishes that leave you smiling. As one of the only boba shops in the area serving 100% organic teas and cane sugar-based drinks, Teacup sets itself apart with a commitment to real ingredients and feel-good flavors. Whether you’re craving a handcrafted bubble tea or a satisfying Vietnamese meal, this café has something thoughtfully made for you.    

NEED TO KNOW    
-Certified Organic Teas: All drinks are brewed from organic black, jasmine green, matcha, and green teas, setting Teacup apart. No artificial powders—just real tea.    
-Cane Sugar, Always Included: Instead of high-fructose corn syrup, Teacup sweetens every drink with natural cane sugar at no extra charge, offering a cleaner, healthier way to enjoy your favorite beverages.    
-Fully Customizable Drinks: Choose from more than a dozen boba tea flavors, over ten smoothie blends, and countless topping combos. Guests can mix flavors freely to create a one-of-a-kind drink every time.  
-Fresh, Flavorful Vietnamese Cuisine: Teacup serves a full Vietnamese menu featuring Banh Mi sandwiches, fresh salad spring rolls, egg rolls, vermicelli bowls, and hot soups—always made fresh to order.    

The Vibe: Wholesome, Welcoming, and Made with Care    

Teacup Des Moines radiates the kind of warmth you only find in a family-owned café. With a calm, cozy setting just minutes from the marina, it’s a perfect place to recharge with something fresh.

TeaCup

A Taste of New Orleans in Des Moines    

Creole Soul isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a love letter to the rich culinary traditions of New Orleans, brought to life by owner and chef Hampton Isom. A New Orleans native, Isom learned to cook from the best—his grandmother and mother—who passed down their time-honored family recipes and deep love for Southern comfort food. After launching his popular food truck by the same name, Isom extended the business to a brick-and-mortar restaurant in Des Moines, Washington. Tucked away in "Backstage Alley" behind Marine View Drive S (the main street in downtown Des Moines), the restaurant serves up hearty, flavor-packed dishes. Whether you’re dining in or catching the truck on the go, Creole Soul delivers an authentic, soulful taste of Louisiana right here in the Pacific Northwest.     

Need to Know: 
-Signature Southern Hospitality    
-Authentic Southern Flavors – Creole Soul serves up New Orleans classics made with nearly all ingredients shipped straight from Louisiana. Fan favorites include crispy fried gator, rich seafood gumbo, overstuffed po’ boys, and buttery beignets. Feeling adventurous? Try the "Gator Mary," a bold Bloody Mary topped with a fried gator garnish!     
-Live Music & Good Vibes – Many evenings feature live performances, bringing the sounds of jazz, blues, and soul to your dining experience. Check Creole Soul’s website and social media for upcoming shows.      
-A Food Truck Legacy – The original Creole Soul food truck is still in operation, serving up Southern flavors at some of King County’s top wineries, breweries, and events.                 
-21+ Only – Due to regulations, only those who are 21 and older are able to visit Creole Soul's restaurant and bar.          
-The Vibe: Southern Charm in the PNW     
-Creole Soul feels like a cozy slice of New Orleans, complete with warm colors, friendly service, and the irresistible aroma of Southern spices filling the air. With live music often filling the space, guests can enjoy th

Creole Soul

Looking for fun things to do in Seattle? Seattle Southside offers limitless fun, all year round. From indoor skydiving in the winter to beachcombing in the summer, there are so many things to do and see, you’ll be sure to find fun for the entire family in Seattle’s Backyard.
From Starfire Sports to North SeaTac BMX Park, you’ll find a wide variety of sporting venues in Seattle Southside. Participants will also find plenty of post-game fun, including go-kart racing, bowling and indoor skydiving. And we’ll be happy to offer you complimentary planning help for everything from group activities to team housing. Make your next sporting event one for the record books in Seattle Southside.


Explore Seattle Southside

Experience the excitement of the **NWAC Soccer Championships**, where the conference’s top teams compete for a championship title.

Championship action takes place on **Friday, November 13, and Sunday, November 15**, giving soccer fans two days to cheer on talented NWAC student-athletes as they battle their way toward the title.

NWAC Soccer Championships

Soccer

Starfire is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit empowering community through world-class soccer & education programs. Starfire's exceptional 54 acre complex includes 5 grass fields, 5 outdoor turf fields, a stadium with seating for 2,500 and an 80,000 square foot athletic center with 2 indoor turf fields ensuring leagues have year round access. Starfire’s exceptional campus & inclusive programming attracts over 1.3 million visits each year.

NWAC Soccer Championships

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