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On Your Way To The Lake, Enjoy A Meal At This Hidden Gem BBQ Spot In Iowa

Whatcha Smokin BBQ & Brew in Luther, Iowa, is a hidden gem offering some of the state's best barbecue.

Published May 18, 2023

Written by 

Raymond Goldfield

One of the best things about Iowa is just how much open space there is - and how many unexpected secrets you can discover while driving through it! That's definitely the case for the tiny town of Luther, located between Boone and Des Moines. This town has only a few over 150 full-time residents - but it's also home to what might be the best hidden barbecue restaurant in Iowa! Welcome to Whatcha Smokin BBQ & Brew, a saloon-style smokehouse serving some of the state's most delicious meats and sides along with a few surprises. Given the out-of-the-way location, it's not a surprise many Iowa residents haven't discovered just how good it is yet - which means this is the perfect time to enjoy it for yourself!

The Saylorville Lake Marina is a popular stop for summer fun, but if you're driving between Boone and Saylorville, don't miss out on this hidden gem.

A serene marina with sailboats docked, reflecting in calm water under a clear blue sky.
Saylorville Lake Marina

The tiny town of Luther has only 150 residents - and you might just find half of them inside Whatcha Smokin BBQ & Brew, a unique barbecue restaurant.

Exterior of "Whatcha Smoking' BBQ Brew" restaurant with a sign, large windows, and a person walking by.
Tamera Bennett/Google Local

This old-school meat counter is usually packed, and after one bite of the meats, it's not hard to see why.

A busy restaurant interior with customers ordering at the counter and others dining at tables.
Mike Abrams/Google Local

Almost all of the meats are smoked and carved right here on site, and you can taste and smell the difference.

Sliced smoked ham on a wooden cutting board, showcasing a crispy, caramelized exterior and tender pink interior.
Whatcha Smokin BBQ & Brew/Google Local

Which to try first? Why not get a sampler platter and try a little bit of everything?

A platter of assorted meats including brisket, sausage, pulled pork, and pickles, served on parchment paper.
Whatcha Smokin BBQ & Brew/Google Local

The meats are the star, but the sides play an impressive supporting role - especially the sweet and savory baked beans.

A tray with sliced brisket, sausage, baked beans, corn, pickles, and toast, accompanied by a drink.
Richard Rethman/Google Local

Not in the mood for smoked meats today? The pork tenderloin sandwich - an Iowa classic - is highly acclaimed here as well.

A crispy fried chicken sandwich topped with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions on a soft bun.
Whatcha Smokin/Facebook

The little details make all the difference, and Whatcha Smokin even serves its own house-made barbecue sauces!

Five bottles of BBQ sauce lined up on a counter, each with distinct labels and flavors, in a rustic setting.
Whatcha Smokin/Facebook

Have you visited Whatcha Smokin BBQ & Brew in Luther? Let us know about your visit, or tell us about your favorite hidden barbecue restaurant in Iowa in the comments section! The restaurant may be out of the way, but it keeps a healthy presence online - check out the restaurant’s website and Facebook page to see the menu and any specials. While you're exploring Iowa's hidden gems, don't miss out on this tiny children's bookstore.

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