Smitty's Tenderloin Shop ★ 4.5
The most famous cheap eat in Iowa: a hand-breaded, flat-griddled Iowa pork tenderloin that dwarfs the bun. The King Tenderloin is under $12 including a side.
Eat well in Des Moines for under €15 a plate: the places locals on a budget actually use.
Cheap eats worth seeking out
Tasty Tacos ★ 4.1
A Des Moines original since 1961: crispy hard-shell tacos with seasoned beef and breakfast burritos at quick counter prices. Multiple metro locations.
Drake Diner ★ 4.0
An all-day diner feeding Drake University students on generous plates of eggs, burgers and daily specials at prices that undercut every nearby restaurant.
Fong's Pizza ★ 4.3
The quirky Chinese-tiki pizza bar that became a Des Moines legend: pizza topped with crab rangoon, General Tso's chicken or Asian-inspired ingredients
Smokey D's BBQ ★ 4.3
Over 200 BBQ competition awards turned into a reliable local chain. Pulled pork sandwich, brisket plate and house sauce variety at family-friendly prices.
Zombie Burger + Drink Lab ★ 4.2
Horror-themed East Village burger bar with creatively named combinations, thick Angus patties and a milkshake programme worth the visit in its own right.
Jethro's BBQ ★ 4.1
Beloved local BBQ chainlet born in Des Moines: BBQ nachos with pulled pork, half-rack of ribs and mac-and-cheese brisket sandwich at family-friendly prices.
La Mie Bakery ★ 4.5
The city's finest bakery doubles as one of its best cheap eats: a croissant, a filled pastry or a slice of quiche alongside a coffee is one of the great
Flying Mango ★ 4.4
Award-winning BBQ and Cajun in Beaverdale: spiced fried catfish and pulled pork at the lower end of Des Moines casual dining prices with porch seating.
Book food experiences in Des Moines
The Deadly Dirge of Des Moines Ghost Tour
Uncover the eerie secrets of Des Moines with our captivating ghost tour, where you'll wander through the city's most haunted and historic sites under the cover of night.