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.
Flying Mango is a bbq budget eat in Beaverdale, Des Moines.
Editorially verified June 26, 2026 by Lewis Vaughan, TableJourney editor. Source.
Address: 4345 Hickman Rd, Des Moines, IA 50310
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.
A Des Moines original since 1961: crispy hard-shell tacos with seasoned beef and breakfast burritos at quick counter prices. Multiple metro locations.
An all-day diner feeding Drake University students on generous plates of eggs, burgers and daily specials at prices that undercut every nearby restaurant.
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
Over 200 BBQ competition awards turned into a reliable local chain. Pulled pork sandwich, brisket plate and house sauce variety at family-friendly prices.
Horror-themed East Village burger bar with creatively named combinations, thick Angus patties and a milkshake programme worth the visit in its own right.