Des Moines BBQ: Why Smokey D’s BBQ Is the Real Deal in Iowa

by Sherry Warth

When folks talk about Des Moines BBQ, Smokey D’s BBQ is usually the first name they bring up. And it’s not just because of the trophies on the wall—it’s the flavor on the plate that tells the real story. With deep Iowa roots and a passion for slow-smoked meats, Smokey D’s has carved out its place as a go-to spot for bold, barbecue flavor done right.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd, grabbing lunch to go, or just chasing that unmistakable BBQ aroma off I-80, Smokey D’s serves up the kind of real-deal barbecue that’s worth talking about.

Built on a Passion for Pit-Smoked Perfection

Before the restaurant ever opened, Smokey D’s was a name in the competitive BBQ world. Darren and Sherry Warth spent years on the road, earning respect on the pitmaster circuit with their award-winning techniques. The accolades they earned were just the beginning—those same methods are now behind every order coming out of the Smokey D’s kitchen.

What started in a trailer with a smoker has become one of the most recognized names in Des Moines BBQ. And they’ve done it without losing what made them special in the first place—hard work, Midwest pride, and a love for the smoke.

A Menu That Keeps It Real

Smokey D’s doesn’t do shortcuts. The meats are smoked low and slow, the rubs are made in-house, and the sides are crafted fresh every day. It’s honest barbecue, with all the essentials you’d expect—and a few house favorites you won’t find anywhere else.

Here’s what you’ll find on the menu:

  • Brisket with a perfect bark and rich smoke ring, sliced or chopped

  • Pulled pork that’s juicy, tender, and full of flavor

  • Ribs that fall off the bone without falling apart

  • Smoked sausage, turkey, and chicken for those who like variety

  • The Big D Sandwich—a triple-meat tower of pulled pork, smoked turkey, and sausage

  • The Pitmaster Platter—the ultimate sampler if you’re ready to go big

And don’t sleep on the sides. Mac & cheese, BBQ beans, cheesy potatoes, coleslaw, and cornbread aren’t just fillers—they’re part of the experience. Each one is made from scratch, just like everything else.

A Local Favorite for More Than Just the Food

Ask a regular why they keep coming back, and they’ll tell you it’s not just about what’s on the plate—it’s the whole experience. Smokey D’s feels like home. The vibe is laid-back, the staff is friendly, and the portions are more than generous.

You don’t need reservations, a tie, or a gourmet budget. You just need an appetite. Whether you're dining in or grabbing it to go, the goal is the same: big flavor, served fast, with no fuss.

BBQ That Brings the Party to You

Des Moines isn’t short on celebrations—from weddings and birthdays to tailgates and corporate lunches. And when those moments call for something crowd-pleasing, locals turn to Smokey D’s catering.

Their catering services bring the same great BBQ from the restaurant straight to your event, with full-service packages and portion sizes designed to satisfy everyone from the picky eaters to the rib fanatics.

What makes Smokey D’s catering a top choice in Des Moines?

  • Flexible packages for groups big or small

  • All the signature meats and sides available

  • Delivery and setup options to make hosting easy

  • Reliability from a local team that knows how to handle events

Planning a graduation party, company lunch, or wedding reception? Smokey D’s brings the flavor and the peace of mind.

A Convenient Stop for BBQ Lovers

Smokey D’s BBQ is located just off I-80 in Des Moines, making it a quick stop whether you’re a local running errands or a road tripper passing through Iowa. There's plenty of parking, lots of indoor seating, and fast, friendly service whether you're ordering inside or online.

They’ve made it even easier with curbside pickup and a straightforward online ordering system, so you can skip the line and head straight for the good stuff.

A Des Moines BBQ Legacy

Over the years, Smokey D’s has become more than just a restaurant. It’s a part of Des Moines culture. Locals proudly recommend it to visitors. Families come back every week. High school grads celebrate with pulled pork platters. Football fans fuel up with catering trays on game day.

It’s the kind of place that becomes a tradition—because it never lets you down.

What Sets Smokey D’s Apart in the Des Moines BBQ Scene?

In a city with plenty of options, Smokey D’s continues to rise above. Here’s why:

  • Rooted in real BBQ expertise

  • All meats smoked in-house using time-tested methods

  • Consistently high-quality meals every single visit

  • Catering that locals trust for life’s biggest moments

  • Welcoming to everyone—from first-time guests to weekly regulars

This is BBQ you can count on—because it's made by people who care about every plate they serve.

The Takeaway on Des Moines BBQ

Des Moines knows BBQ—and Smokey D’s BBQ continues to set the standard. Whether you’re stopping in for lunch, feeding a crowd, or placing an order for pickup, you’re getting the kind of slow-smoked, scratch-made food that doesn’t need to shout to stand out.

Smokey D’s has earned its place at the heart of the local food scene—not just through awards or popularity, but by sticking to what they do best: cooking great BBQ, serving it with pride, and treating everyone who walks through the door like family.

So next time you’re thinking about Des Moines BBQ, you know exactly where to go. Just follow the smoke—and bring your appetite.

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