Southern Restaurants in Iowa
When Guy Fieri rolled his red Camaro into Iowa, he discovered that authentic Southern cooking doesn’t stop at the Mason-Dixon line. Between 2015 and 2021, the Mayor of Flavortown uncovered a hidden gem bringing bold, soulful flavors to the heartland. With an impressive 4.6-star average rating, this featured spot proves that Iowa knows how to throw down when it comes to Southern comfort food.
Leading the charge is Flying Mango in Des Moines, where Caribbean-meets-Southern cuisine creates an explosion of flavor that earned Guy’s enthusiastic approval. This beloved establishment has become a destination for locals and travelers alike, serving up the kind of finger-licking goodness that makes Triple D famous. From smoky barbecue to zesty island-inspired dishes, Flying Mango represents the unexpected culinary diversity thriving in Iowa’s capital city.
Whether you’re craving slow-smoked meats, tangy sauces, or sides that taste like grandma’s kitchen, Iowa’s Southern food scene delivers authentic flavor with Midwestern hospitality. These restaurants prove that great Southern cooking is a state of mind, not just a geographic location.
Flying Mango
Still Open
Des Moines, Iowa