BBQ Restaurants in Des Moines: Why Smokey D’s BBQ Is a Local Favorite

by Sherry Warth

If you’re searching for BBQ restaurants in Des Moines, you won’t need to look far before Smokey D’s BBQ comes up. Known for its championship-level smoked meats, generous portions, and no-fuss, flavor-first attitude, Smokey D’s has earned its spot as a go-to for locals and visitors alike.

Located right off I-80 in Des Moines, this family-run smokehouse has built a loyal following by doing things the right way: slow-smoking every brisket, hand-rubbing every rib, and crafting sides that feel just like home. If you’re hungry for the real deal, this is where you’ll find it.

From Competition Pitmaster to Local Staple

Smokey D’s didn’t start in a restaurant—it started on the competition circuit. Darren and Sherry Warth were already stacking up trophies long before the restaurant doors ever opened. Over time, those early wins fueled something bigger: a place where everyone could experience award-winning BBQ without needing a ticket to a cook-off.

Walk into Smokey D’s today, and you’re stepping into a place built on passion. That championship mindset hasn’t gone anywhere—it just shows up now on every plate, every day.

What’s on the Plate?

Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, the menu makes one thing clear: flavor is front and center. You’ll find all the BBQ classics—brisket, pulled pork, ribs, sausage, smoked chicken—along with hearty sandwiches and scratch-made sides that complete the meal.

Some local favorites:

  • Pitmaster Platter: A best-of sampler for those who want it all.

  • Big D Sandwich: Pulled pork, smoked turkey, and sausage all stacked up.

  • Ribs: Tender, meaty, and kissed with just the right amount of smoke.

  • Sides: From creamy mac & cheese to tangy BBQ beans, these are more than just filler.

Everything is made with care and served in portions that don’t mess around. It’s the kind of BBQ that doesn’t need gimmicks—it just tastes like it should.

More Than Just One of the BBQ Restaurants in Des Moines

What sets Smokey D’s apart from other BBQ restaurants in Des Moines isn’t just the food—it’s the feel.

You’ll notice it the moment you walk in. The space is casual, welcoming, and packed with people who know a good thing when they taste it. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, you’ll get that same warm welcome and the same satisfying meal.

Smokey D’s isn’t trying to be trendy. It’s staying true to its roots: great BBQ, done right.

BBQ That Brings People Together

BBQ has a way of bringing people together—and Smokey D’s leans into that. Whether it’s fueling a Friday night family dinner, feeding coworkers at lunch, or catering a wedding celebration, Smokey D’s shows up with flavor that fits every occasion.

In fact, their BBQ catering has become a trusted go-to in Des Moines. With flexible packages, generous portions, and reliable service, it’s an easy win for events of all sizes.

From corporate lunches to graduation parties, Smokey D’s brings the same commitment to quality on the road as they do in the restaurant.

Easy to Find, Hard to Forget

Smokey D’s sits in a convenient location just off I-80, making it a perfect stop whether you’re heading home, traveling through, or just need a BBQ fix fast. Curbside pickup and online ordering keep things easy, while the dine-in experience keeps it personal.

Add in plenty of parking and a laid-back vibe, and it’s clear why folks keep coming back.

Why Smokey D’s Stands Out Among BBQ Restaurants in Des Moines

There are plenty of BBQ restaurants in Des Moines, but few with the same mix of flavor, authenticity, and heart. Here’s what keeps Smokey D’s on the short list:

  • Award-Winning History: The championship pedigree is real—and it shows.

  • Authentic Smokehouse Cooking: Low and slow, just the way it should be.

  • Community-Driven: Locally owned, locally loved, and always consistent.

  • Catering Experts: They don’t just serve BBQ—they serve it wherever you need it.

  • Fast and Friendly Service: Come hungry, leave happy.

The Takeaway on BBQ Restaurants in Des Moines

When it comes to BBQ restaurants in Des Moines, Smokey D’s BBQ delivers the kind of slow-smoked, scratch-made goodness that keeps people coming back. From award-winning meats to real-deal hospitality, it’s everything great BBQ should be—no shortcuts, no gimmicks.

Whether you're stopping in for lunch, feeding a crowd, or planning your next event, Smokey D’s brings the flavor and the experience to match. If you're craving bold, authentic barbecue in the heart of Iowa, this is where your search ends.

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