Best Restaurants in Des Moines IA: Why Smokey D’s BBQ Ranks Near the Top

by Sherry Warth

If you're looking for the best restaurants in Des Moines IA, Smokey D’s BBQ should be at the top of your list. With a reputation built on championship-winning barbecue, consistent quality, and authentic Iowa flavor, it’s no surprise Smokey D’s is one of the most beloved dining destinations in the state.

More than just a Des Moines BBQ spot, Smokey D’s has earned a loyal following by delivering slow-smoked meats and down-home hospitality every single day. It’s the kind of place where regulars bring out-of-town guests, and where visitors become lifelong fans. Let’s explore what makes Smokey D’s BBQ one of the best restaurants in Des Moines IA.

Barbecue That Started With Competition

Smokey D’s BBQ wasn’t born in a boardroom—it was born in the backyard. The owners started as competitive pitmasters, winning hundreds of state, regional, and national awards before opening a permanent restaurant location in Des Moines. That competition background isn’t just history—it’s the standard.

Every rib, brisket slice, and piece of pulled pork on the plate is seasoned, smoked, and served to the same standard that wins trophies. That’s part of what makes Smokey D’s more than just a good BBQ joint—it’s a standout among the best restaurants in Des Moines IA.

More Than Just a BBQ Place

Yes, barbecue is what Smokey D’s is known for—but it’s the full experience that elevates it above others. Walk in any day of the week and you’ll smell hickory wood smoke in the air, see trays of brisket and burnt ends coming fresh from the pit, and hear the buzz of a team that knows how to keep things moving fast and friendly.

The restaurant delivers all the hallmarks of a great dining spot:

  • Consistent food quality

  • Fast and reliable service

  • Clean, welcoming space

  • Generous portions

  • Honest pricing

These fundamentals put Smokey D’s BBQ in the same conversation as other best restaurants in Des Moines IA, regardless of cuisine.

What’s on the Menu?

The menu at Smokey D’s is a full tour of classic American barbecue. Whether you’re craving brisket, ribs, or something off the beaten path, the offerings are satisfying and flavorful.

Some customer favorites include:

  • Burnt Ends – Rich, caramelized cubes of brisket, tender inside with a crisp bark

  • Brisket – Sliced or chopped, smoked low and slow for hours, juicy and deeply seasoned

  • Pulled Pork – Moist, smoky, and balanced in flavor

  • Ribs – St. Louis-style, perfectly cooked, with a flavorful dry rub and signature glaze

  • Sausage Links – House-smoked with just the right snap

  • Smokey D’s Sandwich – A combination of brisket, pork, and sausage on one bun

Add in house-made sides like pit beans, cheesy corn, coleslaw, and cornbread muffins, and you’ve got a meal worthy of a spot among the best restaurants in Des Moines IA.

Trusted by Locals, Recognized by Travelers

One of the defining marks of a truly great restaurant is its ability to earn loyalty from both locals and first-time visitors. Smokey D’s excels at both.

Locals know Smokey D’s as a place where the quality never slips, even when the line is out the door. It’s a family-friendly spot with quick service and generous plates. For travelers, it’s often recommended as a must-visit stop for experiencing real Des Moines BBQ.

The consistency of the experience—whether you’re dining in, ordering takeout, or catering a large event—is part of what sets Smokey D’s apart.

Fast, Friendly, and Consistently Excellent

Many restaurants struggle to maintain high quality during busy hours. Not Smokey D’s. Whether you visit on a weekday lunch rush or a Saturday night, the staff keeps the food coming fast without sacrificing freshness or attention to detail.

Speed is balanced with hospitality. Orders are accurate, staff are trained and friendly, and tables are kept clean. It’s this level of consistent service that has earned Smokey D’s a reputation as not just one of the best barbecue spots in Des Moines, but one of the best restaurants in Des Moines IA, full stop.

A Spot for Every Occasion

Barbecue might be casual, but Smokey D’s BBQ is built to handle just about anything. Whether you’re hosting a team lunch, feeding your family after a game, or celebrating a milestone, Smokey D’s can accommodate.

You’ll find:

  • Fast dine-in for lunch breaks

  • Easy online ordering and efficient pickup for takeout

  • Large tables for family or group dining

  • Catering options for events of all sizes

The accessibility of the experience—both in terms of menu and logistics—is part of what makes Smokey D’s a favorite across age groups and customer types.

Why Smokey D’s BBQ Continues to Lead Des Moines Dining

Among the best restaurants in Des Moines IA, Smokey D’s BBQ earns its place through a simple but powerful formula: cook every meal to the same standard as a championship competition plate, serve it with speed and consistency, and stay true to your roots.

It’s a place where the food speaks for itself. The meats are smoked with precision. The sides are made fresh in-house. The team operates with pride. It’s not trying to be trendy—it’s just trying to be great. And it is.

Whether you’re a local looking for your next go-to spot or a traveler searching for the best barbecue in Des Moines, Smokey D’s offers a level of quality and authenticity that rivals any restaurant in the city.

Take a look at the full menu and see for yourself what makes Smokey D’s BBQ one of the top restaurants in Iowa. If you have questions, need catering, or want to plan your visit, don’t hesitate to contact us. Smokey D’s is ready when you are.

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