
Flying Mango
A quirky, celebrated spot in Des Moines known for its unique fusion of BBQ, Cajun, and Caribbean flavors, and a lively atmosphere.

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Flying Mango

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A quirky, celebrated spot in Des Moines known for its unique fusion of BBQ, Cajun, and Caribbean flavors, and a lively atmosphere.
"This place is a must-try for its authentic taste and vibrant dining experience!"
Make Reservations
Consider reserving a table in advance, especially for weekend dining, to ensure you get a spot.
Try Signature Dishes
Don't miss the 24-hour brisket or the 'What Guy Had' Cajun Chicken sandwich for an authentic taste.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
American, Barbecue, Cajun, Caribbean
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Award-Winning BBQ & Cajun Flair
Experience a unique fusion of BBQ, Cajun, and Caribbean flavors. Famous for its 24-hour brisket and "What Guy Had" sandwich.

Vibrant Atmosphere & Live Music
Enjoy a lively dining experience with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and live music on Fridays.

Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives Featured
This beloved spot has been recognized on Guy Fieri's show multiple times for its outstanding dishes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Make Reservations
Consider reserving a table in advance, especially for weekend dining, to ensure you get a spot.
Try Signature Dishes
Don't miss the 24-hour brisket or the 'What Guy Had' Cajun Chicken sandwich for an authentic taste.
To-Go Efficiency
Even during busy periods, expect quick and friendly service for takeout orders.
Ask About Specials
Inquire about daily specials for unique and potentially award-winning culinary creations.
Tips
from all over the internet
Make Reservations
Consider reserving a table in advance, especially for weekend dining, to ensure you get a spot.
Try Signature Dishes
Don't miss the 24-hour brisket or the 'What Guy Had' Cajun Chicken sandwich for an authentic taste.
To-Go Efficiency
Even during busy periods, expect quick and friendly service for takeout orders.
Ask About Specials
Inquire about daily specials for unique and potentially award-winning culinary creations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Flying Mango is highly praised for its exceptionally flavorful BBQ and Cajun dishes, with the 24-hour brisket and Cajun chicken sandwich being standout favorites. Diners often highlight the welcoming atmosphere and the personal touch of the owner. However, some reviews mention inconsistencies with sides and certain non-BBQ dishes, suggesting a strong focus on their signature smoked meats.
""The Cajun Chicken sandwich, with thick-cut bacon and goat cheese, with a side of 'grits of the day.' " I order the same thing nearly every time. Occasionally I'll splurge and get their 24hr beef brisket, and one of their fantastic desserts. I've never been disappointed, and I'm confident I would have the same experience with anything else on their menu.
Since I always order to-go, I can’t speak to the dine-in experience. However, the service has always been fast and friendly, even when they're busy—which is often. And that's always a good sign."
Jason Everett
"We were in the mood for something new and exciting, as usual. After a quick search, one of the first spots that caught our eye was The Flying Mango. The name immediately grabbed my attention—it's unique and intriguing. A quirky name like that usually promises some equally unique food, right?
The place itself is a small, hole-in-the-wall restaurant that could maybe fit 50 people at most. When you first walk in, you pass by the kitchen and a small bar, with the dining area located on the opposite side. When we visited, it was pretty quiet—just us and one other group—so the vibe was laid-back and relaxed.
Our server got us seated quickly and was incredibly attentive to everything we needed. She was, without a doubt, the highlight of our visit. Her exceptional service was the main reason for the high rating I gave this place, because if it were solely based on the food, it wouldn't have scored nearly as well.
One of my friends ordered a couple of adult drinks, but they ended up sending them back because they just weren’t good. Now, let's talk about the food, which is probably why you're reading this. I ordered the pulled pork sandwich with garlic mashed potatoes—or at least that’s what they called them.
The pulled pork sandwich was fantastic. They definitely know what they’re doing with their BBQ. The pork was sweet, tangy, and spicy all at once, and the bread was perfectly baked with just the right amount of warmth. However, the mashed potatoes? They can keep those and take them back to wherever they got them. They weren’t good at all. In fact, none of the sides really impressed anyone in our group. My so-called "garlic" mashed potatoes didn’t have any garlic flavor whatsoever, and honestly, it seemed like they only had butter in them. They definitely need to rethink that recipe.
Overall, I wouldn’t come back for the food, but I would return for the customer service and relaxed atmosphere. The team there really knows how to make you feel welcome, and that goes a long way. If they ever bring their food up to the level of their service, this place could be something special. Keep up the great work, and hopefully one day the food will match the fantastic vibe you’ve already got going on."
Devin Sea
"The Flying Mango is always a highlight to visit. I’ve had many entrees over the years but the 24 hour brisket always keep me coming back. I love the atmosphere and visiting with the owner is always a treat. Treat yourself by enjoying a meal at the Flying Mango."
Joe Murphy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Diners highly recommend the 24-hour brisket and the 'What Guy Had' Cajun Chicken sandwich. Many also rave about the ribs and shrimp and grits.
Yes, Flying Mango features live music on Fridays, contributing to its lively and vibrant atmosphere.
Yes, the restaurant has a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere and offers a 'Kids Only, please.' menu.
Absolutely! Takeout orders are available and known for being fast and friendly, even during busy times.
Yes, Flying Mango has been featured on "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives" with Guy Fieri multiple times.
It is advisable to call ahead for a reservation to secure your table, as the restaurant can get busy.
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Owned and operated by Michael Wedeking and Suzanne Van Englehoven, Flying Mango is a quirky hot spot with an open kitchen that caters to a full range of events from romantic dinners for two to special celebrations. Boasting red and white checkered tablecloths and a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere, the restaurant specializes in barbecue and briskets, Cajun, Creole and Caribbean specialties, and handcrafted cocktails. The menu features slabs of Memphis-style ribs, smoked brisket, seared yellowfin tuna, cajun catfish, and lime and garlic chicken, and a variety of drinks from the full-service bar such as craft brews, cocktails, and casual wines.
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In the episode "Fish, Fries and Feet," Fieri checked out the Flying Mango, which has been around as a catering establishment since 1997 before opening as a full-service restaurant. Flying Mango has been featured on three episodes of the show ("Triple D Nation: Fried and Smoked,""Fish, Fries and Feet," and "Takeout: Sendin' the Surf & Turf") which confirms just how highly Fieri thinks of the place. Flying Mango serves up everything from Shrimp Pontchartrain to smoked pork to Memphis-style ribs, and more (see video above to get your mouth watering).
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While most BBQ places focus on substance over style, Flying Mango in the Beaverdale neighborhood is one of the few places where you can get both. This is date night BBQ with a Caribbean twist. Smoked meats include pork tenderloin, chicken, Memphis-style ribs, and their 24-hour beef brisket; but you can also take a tour of the south with dishes like red beans and rice, shrimp and grits, and Cajun catfish.
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Gather with friends for a memorable outing at Flying Mango, a vibrant restaurant known for its mouthwatering barbecue and eclectic menu. Whether you're craving smoky ribs, juicy pulled pork, or flavorful vegetarian options, Flying Mango has something to satisfy every palate. The welcoming atmosphere and live music on a Friday create a lively and enjoyable dining experience.
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- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (343 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5)- Type of cuisine: American, Barbecue- Price: $$ - $$$- Address: 4345 Hickman Rd One mile East of Merle Hay Road on Hickman Rd., Des Moines, IA 50310-3352- Read more on Tripadvisor. You may also like: How gas prices have changed in Des Moines in the last week
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This small barbecue joint was once featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives with Guy Fieri. Therefore, it may not have the romantic ambiance of a French restaurant, but the food more than makes up for it. The menu is unique to beloved owner Joe who put his personal touch to the menu, which you see reflected on names of dishes like “What Guy Had” and “Redneck Surf & Turf.
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We often celebrate Mardi Gras with cuisine of the Big Easy, but the Caribbean also takes this festive holiday seriously. Flying Mango serves up both Cajun and Caribbean fare. Enjoy Louisiana “BBQ” Shrimp and Grits, Jerk Spiced Pulled Pork or indulge with a taste of Southwest Chocolate Cake or White Chocolate Bread Pudding served with Chilled Mango Sauce.
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Flying Mango in Des Moines made it on the show as Guy Fieri traveled around town trying some of the state’s best barbecue. Today, the kitchen is still cooking and you can pop in and try the southern barbecue that has a hint of Caribbean influence. Their ribs are very popular but Guy sampled the smoked catfish cakes and recommended you give them a try.
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I’ve always loved the ribs here, but with so many other great menu items (from The Jenny Salad—with brisket!—to a great shrimp and grits), it’s easy to get distracted. And when I do, I’m never disappointed. Still, for my takeout visit, I trusted that ribs would travel especially well, and of course they did.
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Cajun and Creole specialties and barbecue are the highlights at Flying Mango. You'll find plenty of seafood, dirty rice, grits and a full line of smoked delicacies. One of its most popular dishes is the Redneck Surf-N-Turf — Cajun catfish and loin back ribs served with red beans and rice and cornbread.
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It’s hard to pick a favorite dish at Flying Mango, but it’s hard to beat their smoked meats. The BBQ Glazed Ribs are absolutely out of this world… so it’s no wonder they attracted the attention of Food Network’s Guy Fieri, who featured this awesome spot on an episode of ‘Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives.’
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This establishment might have the most unique name of all the restaurants in Des Moines. This fun restaurant has food inspired by the Caribbean, Creole, Cajun, and Southern flavors. Flying Mango has even been featured on Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives” on the Food Network!
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Known for their barbecue, Caribbean flavors, and homemade dishes, this funky restaurant is fun for the whole family. Join them for their Mango Music Night, where they offer unique food to go with local live bands. They also have many other future music events listed on their website.
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Another clear winner for some of the best BBQ in Des Moines, you simply can’t visit Iowa and not sample the fantastic dishes at Flying Mango. They even once appeared on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives. Expect nothing short of full flavours regardless of what you order.
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Want to enjoy dine-in, takeaway, or delivery services at home?. Yes, Flying Mango offers everything to its clients and customers with pleasure. You can now easily dine in and enjoy some very happy moments with your friends, family, and loved ones with some amazing food.
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Flying Mango is a restaurant equipped with an open kitchen that will offer catering for any event, from romantic dinners for two to wedding events. The owners of the flying mango are Michael Wedeking and Suzanne Van Englehoven. It is also operated by the two of them.
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Flying Mango takes a Caribbean twist on their classic BBQ dishes to create a dining experience unlike any other. You can of course find barbecue classics, like a full rack of ribs and pulled pork. Additionally, Flying Mango serves up some pretty unique dishes.
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There are plenty of Des Moines restaurants serving barbecue, but Flying Mango sets itself apart from the crowd. They blend Cajun and Caribbean influences to create a unique menu, which features barbecue that cooks for 24 hours before being sliced and served.
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Flying Mango is a neighborhood restaurant with a wide-ranging menu and live entertainment. This popular Southern barbecue joint and smokehouse is known for its "Bass-Ackwards" chicken wing drummies. They're grilled and then marinated (one pound for $12).
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Fresh desserts and unique drinks make this spot a must-visit for a sweet treat and a refreshing sip while you wait for more. My daughter and I got some to go dessert and margaritas!. The dessert was so fresh and tasty!
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4345 Hickman RdDes Moines, IA 50310(515) 255-4111 Visit Website See Menu Open in Google Maps. The Flying Mango, completed in 2003, is a renowned restaurant specializing in Southern and Caribbean fare.
Best cheap interesting places to eat in Des Moines? We are visiting from Raleigh, NC and love local dive type places. Does not need to be "American" food. Thanks in advance : desmoines
It's not necessarily cheap, but Flying Mango is the best restaurant in the city, in my opinion. It's a tiny place with amazing atmosphere, and some of the best ribs and brisket I've ever had.
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4345 Hickman Rd, Des Moines, IA 50310Phone: 515-255-4111 Visit Website. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Flying Mango Restaurant (@flying_mango_restaurant)
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit