Business Details
29 Years
experience
Authentic BBQ & Southern Cuisine in Des Moines
Flying Mango has been serving authentic regional cuisine since 1997, evolving from a catering business to a beloved brick-and-mortar establishment in Des Moines. Our menu features generous portions of BBQ, Southern, Cajun/Creole, and Caribbean-inspired dishes crafted from time-tested recipes. Recognized nationally through appearances on Food Network's Diners, Drive-ins & Dives, we combine culinary expertise with a relaxed atmosphere where guests experience house-smoked meats, creative cocktails, and signature desserts.With over 25 years of hospitality experience, our team prioritizes quality ingredients, attentive service, and community connections. We maintain strict food safety standards while preserving the casual vibe that makes guests feel at home. Our commitment to excellence extends to catering services for private and corporate events, maintaining the same high standards that earned us Yelp's Best BBQ Restaurant recognition.
Services
BBQ Catering
Southern Cuisine
Cajun Creole Meals
Caribbean-Inspired Dishes
Full-Service Catering
Private Dining
Takeout Orders
Gift Cards
Wine Selection
Craft Cocktails
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of regional cuisine expertise
- Our house-smoked meats use time-tested recipes
- Featured on Food Network's Diners, Drive-ins & Dives
- Maintain 4.5+ star ratings across review platforms
- Provide full-service catering with event coordination
What people say
Best BBQ in Iowa
Generous portions
Vibrant atmosphere
Creative menu options
Attentive service
Services
BBQ Catering
Our full-service catering provides house-smoked meats and regional specialties for events of all sizes. We offer custom menus with options for corporate functions, weddings, and private parties. Our experienced team handles food preparation, service staff, and equipment needs while maintaining the same quality standards as our restaurant.
Southern Cuisine
We serve authentic Southern dishes featuring slow-smoked meats, traditional sides, and scratch-made sauces. Our menu includes classic combinations like Memphis ribs with collard greens and modern twists on Southern staples. All dishes use fresh ingredients prepared daily to maintain authentic flavors.
Cajun Creole Meals
Our Louisiana-inspired menu features gumbo, jambalaya, and blackened seafood dishes made with authentic spices. We recreate New Orleans flavors through house-made seasonings and traditional cooking methods. Specialties include shrimp po'boys and andouille sausage dishes that highlight regional culinary traditions.
Private Dining
The restaurant accommodates private events with customizable seating arrangements and dedicated service staff. We offer special menus for groups while maintaining our regular operating hours. The space combines rustic decor with modern amenities for comfortable dining experiences.
Craft Cocktails
Our bar program features bourbon-focused cocktails, house-made infusions, and classic Southern drinks like the Sazerac. We use fresh ingredients and house-made syrups to create distinctive beverages that complement our menu. The full bar includes seasonal specials and premium liquor selections.
Questions
What are Flying Mango's operating hours?
We serve dinner Wednesday through Saturday from 5 PM, with takeout available until 8:30 PM on weeknights and 9 PM weekends.
Do you offer catering services?
Yes, we provide full-service catering and custom packages for events with options for both hot and cold food preparation.
What type of cuisine do you serve?
Our menu features regional American cuisine with emphasis on BBQ, Southern, Cajun/Creole, and Caribbean-inspired dishes.
Can I order takeout?
Yes, takeout orders can be placed online for credit card payments or by phone for cash or gift card transactions.
Are reservations required?
Reservations are required for parties of 6+ and can be made by calling the restaurant directly.
What awards have you received?
We've been recognized as Yelp's Best BBQ Restaurant in Iowa and featured on Food Network's Diners, Drive-ins & Dives.
Reviews (1)
Tim H.
Apr 29, 2023
Report
We visited on a Friday evening and called ahead when we were about 20 minutes out! The hostess greeted us and was so pleasant to talk to and we were seated immediately. The dining room was full and it was a cozy room with lots of conversation and delicious smelling food. After a few minutes with the menu, we ordered drinks. I ordered the bloody mary and my partner had the Mango iced tea. Both drinks were fantastic and the bloody mary had a piece of sausage and grilled shrimp.
For our meals, we ordered the brisket platter with asparagus (veggie of the day) and the coleslaw. I ordered the Louisiana Platter that came with sausage, creole chicken, red beans and rice and cornbread. We shared our plates so we could have a taste of ALL THE THINGS! It was all incredible. We love creole cuisine and savored every bite. The brisket was flavorful and so tender. The andouille sausage was spicy and delicious paired with the red beans and rice. Don't walk, RUN to Flying Mango!
For our meals, we ordered the brisket platter with asparagus (veggie of the day) and the coleslaw. I ordered the Louisiana Platter that came with sausage, creole chicken, red beans and rice and cornbread. We shared our plates so we could have a taste of ALL THE THINGS! It was all incredible. We love creole cuisine and savored every bite. The brisket was flavorful and so tender. The andouille sausage was spicy and delicious paired with the red beans and rice. Don't walk, RUN to Flying Mango!