Barbecue Restaurants Near Me: Discover the Best Local BBQ at Smokey D’s

When you're searching for barbecue restaurants near me, there’s a good chance you're looking for authentic flavors, mouthwatering meats, and a place that truly understands barbecue culture. At Smokey D’s BBQ in Des Moines, we’re proud to be a top destination for locals and visitors alike, serving up award-winning barbecue that keeps people coming back.

With roots that go deep into Iowa's BBQ competition circuit and a name known throughout the Midwest, Smokey D’s is more than just a restaurant — it's a flavor-packed experience built on real smoke, real meat, and real passion.

What Makes a Great Barbecue Restaurant?

Before diving into what sets Smokey D’s BBQ apart, it’s important to define what truly makes a great barbecue spot. When people type barbecue restaurants near me, they’re looking for:

• Slow-smoked meats packed with flavor
• House-made sauces and sides
• Consistent quality and service
• A menu that honors BBQ tradition but adds local flair
• An atmosphere that welcomes families, friends, and food lovers

At Smokey D’s, we’ve spent years refining every part of that equation. From our signature ribs and brisket to our fresh sides made daily, we’ve built a reputation on delivering BBQ done right.

The Story Behind Smokey D’s

What began as a competitive BBQ team has turned into one of Des Moines’ most well-known barbecue destinations. Smokey D’s was founded by Darren and Sherry Warth — champions on the competition circuit who brought their passion to the people.

Their dedication to quality is evident in everything on the menu. If you're searching for barbecue restaurants near me because you want real, wood-smoked flavor, then Smokey D’s is your answer.

From winning awards at the American Royal Invitational to appearances on TV food competitions, Smokey D’s has grown into a trusted name. And while our fame has expanded, our commitment remains focused on one thing: serving the best barbecue in Iowa.

What to Order When You Visit

Our Main Location Menu is packed with BBQ staples and specialties. Here are a few standouts to try:

• Burnt Ends – Smoky, caramelized, and tender — a must-try for any barbecue enthusiast.
• Brisket – Smoked low and slow, sliced to perfection.
• Ribs – Whether you go baby back or St. Louis-style, our ribs fall off the bone and are packed with flavor.
• Pulled Pork Sandwich – Juicy pork with our signature sauce and coleslaw.
• Sides like Mac & Cheese, Pit Beans, and Cornbread Muffins – All made fresh and bursting with home-cooked goodness.

We understand that no two BBQ experiences are alike. That’s why our menu is built to let you mix, match, and customize your perfect meal.

Why Locals Say We’re One of the Best Barbecue Restaurants Near Me

Des Moines has plenty of food options, but few offer the consistency, history, and quality of Smokey D’s BBQ. When you explore the Best Restaurants in Des Moines, you’ll find that Smokey D’s is always in the conversation — and for good reason.

We blend traditional BBQ techniques with a community-driven mission: serve incredible food that brings people together. From lunch with coworkers to weekend family meals, we’ve built a space where BBQ lovers feel at home.

Looking for Top BBQ Spots? You’ve Found One.

In our blog about the Top BBQ Restaurants in Des Moines, we break down what makes each place special — and we’re proud to be right at the top of that list. What sets us apart?

• Our meats are smoked in-house daily.
• We use real wood, never shortcuts.
• Our team is trained to deliver not just great food, but great experiences.

Searching for barbecue restaurants near me shouldn’t lead you to a generic chain. It should bring you to a place with heart, history, and a deep love for smoked meats. That’s what you’ll find here at Smokey D’s.

Community Matters

Barbecue is more than just food — it's tradition, it's culture, and it's connection. We’ve always been committed to giving back to the Des Moines community, whether through fundraising events, sponsorships, or simply being a gathering place for celebrations.

Our team lives here, works here, and cooks here. That local pride shows in every plate we serve.

Planning a Visit?

We’re located conveniently for both locals and visitors looking for barbecue restaurants near me in the Des Moines area. Our spacious dining area is great for groups, and we offer carry-out for those on the go.

We recommend checking our menu online before visiting — or calling ahead if you’re placing a large order.

Let’s Talk About Sauce

No discussion of BBQ is complete without talking sauce. Smokey D’s offers house-made sauces that range from tangy to spicy, giving each guest a way to make their meal their own.

Pro tip: Ask for our spicy BBQ sauce on the side — it’s a local favorite that adds just the right kick.

What Our Customers Say

Our reviews speak for themselves. Whether on Yelp, Google, or social media, customers consistently praise:

• The smoky flavor of our brisket
• The tenderness of our ribs
• The friendliness of our staff
• The size and value of our portions

When you read our customer stories, one phrase pops up often: "best barbecue restaurant near me" — and that’s no coincidence.

Finding the Best Barbecue Restaurants Near Me

In your search for barbecue restaurants near me, don’t settle for anything less than legendary. At Smokey D’s BBQ, you’ll find authentic barbecue made with love, served with pride, and enjoyed by thousands.

Whether you're planning a casual lunch, a family gathering, or just craving the bold flavors of slow-smoked meat, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for right here in Des Moines.

Ready to experience it for yourself? Visit our contact page for hours, directions, and more info. We look forward to welcoming you to Smokey D’s — where every meal is a celebration of BBQ done right.