Iowa is full of quiet small towns and backroads where even residents who have lived in the Hawkeye State their whole lives may have never visited – and that means they may be missing out on some great hidden gems! A perfect example of this is the small city of Jefferson in rural central Iowa, where you’ll find an unassuming local restaurant that may serve the best BBQ in Iowa. Bett & Bev’s BBQ is a little roadside shack that puts some unique twists on classic ‘cue, combining a menu full of all the old favorites like pulled pork and brisket with some cuts you may not have seen before. It’s been so popular that they’ve recently opened a new branch about 25 miles to the southeast in Perry, so why not head down to one of these small towns and find out what all the fuss is about?
The humble exterior of Bett & Bev’s original location means many people might just pass it by - but the delicious smell of smoked meat might convince them otherwise!
Bernie Crump/Google Local
Inside, the humble dive-like feel makes you feel like you’re back in a 1950s roadside restaurant - and there’s only one focus here.
Dennis Goering/Google Local
That would be the meat - smoked on-site with a unique blend of seasonings. You’ll want to try the whole menu!
Bett & Bev’s BBQ/Facebook
The restaurant offers sandwiches for lighter eaters, of course - if you can call these overstuffed beasts lighter!
Bett & Bev’s BBQ/Facebook
The best buy here is probably the half smoked chicken, which comes spilling off the plate and is easily enough for two.
Bett & Bev’s BBQ/Facebook
Bett & Bev’s has gained a reputation for bringing unusual BBQ styles to Iowa, like the California-based slow-smoked tri-tip.
Bett & Bev’s BBQ/Facebook
You might even be here when they’re smoking salmon - it’s like a New York Deli met a traditional southern BBQ joint!
Bett & Bev’s BBQ/Facebook
If Bett & Bev’s has a signature item, it’s the Fripp Pie - potato chips topped with pulled pork, baked beans, and cole slaw for a deliciously messy treat.
Bett & Bev’s BBQ/Facebook
Have you visited Bett & Bev’s BBQ in Jefferson or the new location in Perry? Let us know what you ordered, and tell us your pick for the best BBQ in Iowa in the comments section! The restaurant is always introducing new specials, so make sure to visit the official website and Facebook page for all the latest details. For another hidden gem in small-town Iowa, check out this rural border cafe.
Bernie Crump/Google Local
Dennis Goering/Google Local
Bett & Bev’s BBQ/Facebook
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Address: Bett & Bev’s BBQ, 808 N Vine St, Jefferson, IA 50129, USAAddress: Bett & Bev’s BBQ, Perry, 408 1st Ave, Perry, IA 50220, USA
