Des Moines, IA

restaurants

George The Chili King Drive-In

Bet you didn’t know there was a royal family of chili, but the residents of Des Moines named the original owner of this classic drive-in the Chili King, and the rest is history. Obviously, the name of the game is chili, but Guy also recommends the Tenderloin — a Des Moines staple made from tenderized fried pork shoulder. Try it all without ever having to leave your car.

West Des Moines, IA

restaurants

Mi Patria Ecuadorian Restaurant

Set in an unassuming strip mall, this Des Moines hot spot might at first look like an unlikely place to serve amazing Ecuadorian cuisine. But locals flock to Mi Patria for authentic South American ceviche and empanadas.

Des Moines, IA

restaurants

Smokey Ds BBQ

There’s a reason Smokey D’s racks up so many awards: The team prepares some of the best BBQ in the Midwest, with three full smokers turning out brisket, ribs and more around the clock. You can’t go wrong with any of the meats, but Guy recommends the smoked chicken wings in particular, which come smothered in your choice of house sauces. For a decadent finish, order the apple dumpling. This sweet yet tangy dish comprises crisp dough and syrup-soaked soft dough, with tart apple tucked inside.

Des Moines, IA

restaurants

Patton's

A little taste of Louisiana in the Midwest, this authentic Southern gem spins out convincing takes on classics like fried fish, barbecue ribs and a modern take on fried chicken and waffles, with sides like red beans and rice that left Guy speechless.

Council Bluffs, IA

restaurants

Dixie Quicks

Dixie Quick's owner, Rene Orduna, grew up working at his family's Mexican restaurant, and then traveled the world. So when he got to Council Bluffs, Iowa, he put everything he learned into one eclectic menu. Guy said the Texas Chile Pepper Steak was ''one of the best pepper steaks I've ever had.''

Des Moines, IA

restaurants

Tacopocalypse

With a chef who used to be a metal musician, Tacopocalypse naturally specializes in the realm where creative meets outrageous. The taco and burrito flavor combinations are incredibly unique here, with fillings like wasabi brisket and bacon chorizo, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options, like andouille-spiced seitan. Start with the masa fries, with a Guy-approved topping of kimchi and queso.

Des Moines, IA

restaurants

Flying Mango

The Flying Mango’s unique name is a hint at the bold, original food it serves. Chef Mike Wedeking offers a menu of Southern barbecue with Caribbean influences. The Memphis-style ribs are popular, but Guy recommends trying the house-smoked catfish cakes.