via Marina Wood Fired Pizza & Italian Cafe

Nestled in the heart of Des Moines, Washington, via Marina Wood Fired Pizza & Italian Cafe offers an inviting Italian dining experience that captures the essence of traditional cuisine with a modern, cozy twist. This vibrant Italian restaurant, cocktail bar, pizza place, and wine bar is a true gem for those craving authentic flavors paired with a warm, wood-fired ambience.

From the moment you step in, the nostalgic yet lively atmosphere wraps you in comfort. Whether seated inside or enjoying the fresh air on the patio, the ambiance is perfectly crafted for both relaxed lunches and intimate dinners. Attentive service compliments the setting, with staff who are as passionate about your experience as the food itself.

The menu at via Marina is a celebration of Italy’s rich culinary heritage, showcasing a diverse range of dishes that excite the palate. Standout appetizers like the Potato Croquettes — mashed potatoes laced with pecorino and mozzarella, breaded and fried to golden perfection — paired with a tangy marinara are a delightful way to start. If you prefer seafood, the tender Sauté di Vongole clams infused with garlic and olive oil deliver an elegant coastal touch.

The pizza here is a revelation. Baked in a wood-fired oven, each pizza boasts a subtly smoky crust that enhances but never overwhelms the fresh dough’s robust flavor. Classics like the Margarita Pizza showcase fresh mozzarella, rich tomato sauce, and basil, while the Diavola Pizza offers a tantalizing spicy kick. Gourmet selections like the Pizza with Arugula and Burrata Caprese elevate the experience further, blending peppery greens with creamy cheese for layers of texture and taste.

Pasta lovers are treated to hearty, authentically crafted dishes such as the creamy Chicken Marsala served over delicate fettuccine, where tender chicken and earthy crimini mushrooms swim in a luscious Marsala wine and cream sauce. The Rigatoni Sausage & Rapini combines sautéed greens and savory Italian sausage in a light, spicy sauce that feels both comforting and refined. Traditional favorites like Cacio e Pepe highlight the purity of simplicity—spaghetti tossed in pecorino and freshly cracked black pepper, showcasing Italy in every bite.

Desserts at via Marina are equally indulgent. The Cheesecake comes with a subtle limoncello note and a delightful biscotti crust, offered with your choice of fresh raspberry or luscious Nutella topping. For chocolate aficionados, the Mocha Decadence Cake is a heavenly blend of dark chocolate and espresso, served alongside a vibrant raspberry sauce. And for a charming twist, the Nutella Calzone wraps hazelnut chocolate spread inside deliciously baked dough — a sweet surprise to end your meal.

Guests consistently praise via Marina for its cozy yet energetic setting and exceptional attention to quality. Dita B noted the ample parking and the fresh, wood-fired garlic bread that perfectly complements their dishes. Kevin Rodal highlighted the “super fresh” bread and homemade-tasting sausage, while M E Nelson appreciated the nostalgic vibe coupled with a perfectly balanced smoky crust on the pizzas. Melvin Mullings loved the attentive service and variety of seating options, savoring specialties like the Caprese and Walnut/Gorgonzola salad. Even those who initially experienced inconsistencies have returned to celebrate the undeniable flavors, as B and J shared during their revisit, praising the chicken marsala and a “fantastic” overall meal.

via Marina Wood Fired Pizza & Italian Cafe is more than just an eatery—it’s a neighborhood haven for lovers of Italian cuisine who appreciate quality, tradition, and passion served on every plate. Whether you are indulging in an aromatic cocktail, savoring a wood-fired pizza, or unwinding with a carefully curated glass of wine, via Marina invites you to experience Italy’s culinary warmth and charm right here in Des Moines.

Call +1 206-592-2659 or visit 22636 Marine View Dr S to reserve your seat and embark on a flavorful journey infused with heart and authenticity.