Jethro’s BBQ is a well-known restaurant in Des Moines, Iowa, celebrated for its hearty portions of classic American barbecue. The restaurant offers a wide range of smoked meats, including ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, all prepared with signature sauces and rubs. With a laid-back atmosphere and multiple locations across the Des Moines area, Jethro’s has become a local favorite for both casual dining and sports viewing, often featuring big-screen TVs and a welcoming vibe. It’s a go-to spot for BBQ enthusiasts in Iowa.
Bustling BBQ joint features hearty plates of comfort eats & brews in a casual venue with sports TVs.
Eliza Fredrickson
Service was great! The fried pickle chips were thin and crispy! We got the Iowa platter which had a little of everything. Pulled pork and chicken were a little dry by themselves but with the bbq sauce it was PERFECT! Will definitely be coming here again when in the area!
… moreChristina Reynolds
Food was ok. Meats were dry. Baked beans were very good. Service was slow and seemed the waitress was not very good at her job. Took over 20 minutes to pay for our food and leave and then they didn’t even return my debit card. There looks to be many other places other choices around to eat at so will not be returning here
… moreDustin Jacobsen
I knew I shouldn’t get BBQ in Iowa. $17 for a slice of turkey that looked and tasted like lunch eat and a sausage that could have come from the gas station. Mac & cheese was grainy and so bland it almost the turkey taste good. Baked beans were OK for something out of a can.
Staff obviously knew the food was bad, but did their job in ignoring the fact and we’re rather combative when I mentioned the quality of plating and amount for the money.
If you like BBQ don’t eat here. The fried pork tenderloin sandwich looked 100x better and I wish I had tried that instead.
The one positive was a healthy pour of whiskey for a reasonable price, but then they charged a dollar for ice.
… moreJennifer Hockema
We had a great time at Jethro’s as we celebrated a high school graduation with family. The service was fast and friendly, and the food was delicious!
We hadn’t plan to come back the very next day, but that’s exactly what we did before we left town! If you struggle with food allergies, just let their service team know and they will help you figure out what you can eat- there are lots of options!
Bathrooms are clean as is the entire restaurant! We loved our time here!
As a huge iced tea fan, my only disappointment was in how weak my tea was. But in the big picture, that was extremely minimal. Thanks for the great BBQ!
… moreStephanie Agnitsch
I worked with Cara to plan a surprise birthday party and i have to say it couldn’t have gone any smoother than it did. Cara was informed on my options, flexible and extremely responsive to all of my emails. The day of the party the area we were going to be in was prepped and ready to go. The waitress Brandi absolutely knocked it out of the park. She was attentive, organized and on top of everything as well as extremely kind all night. All of the food came out hot and delicious. We so appreciate all of the hard work and assistance.
… moreThomas Williams
Great Place. Had the brisket and burnt ends, baked beans, cream corn w/ jalapenos and corn muffin.
Brisket was tender & lean w/ a bit of fat (flavor!). Burned ends were good, in a sauce, maybe the normal BBQ sauce, a little sweet.
Service was quick and Server, “D?” was helpful, personable and friendly. Great Job!
Sauces were good. Five to choose from. I enjoyed the spicy.
… moreRussell Cape
Probably the best BBQ I’ve had. The jalapeno sausage was my favorite, and Carolina pulled pork was delicious as well. The fried pickles had good flavor and were nicely bite sized. The staff was nice, and place was designed with wild game taxidermy. Such a cool place. Very good food.
… moreChristina
Brandi served a group of 30 of us and did a PHENOMENAL job. Best service I’ve had anywhere in a long time! On top of dealing with us, we saw her seating people at the door, bringing food to other tables, all with a smile! We were all thoroughly impressed with the food and the service she provided. Oh, she also got us signed up for rewards!! Will definitely be back!
… moreColin abare
OMG there is not enough stars to rate this place, I have been to many in a lot of states & Jethros hands down so far in my life is the best! Baby back ribs fall off bone, flavor was outstanding, the smoked Mac & cheese was phenomenal!!! My server Dazia was patient as it was my first time, very friendly & just helped make the overall experience excellent! I was very tempted to try the food challenge but I wanted to savor & enjoy the flavors. If I’m ever near a Jethros again I will definitely be dining in!
… moreDaniel Dowd
Stopped here for lunch on our way home from Minneapolis. Greeted and seated right away. Food was excellent. My wife had ribs and loved them. I had the brisket and burnt end sandwich. Very good. Server was excellent and very personable.
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