These Customer Reviews Talk About the Best BBQ in Des Moines!

We can tell you that we're the best BBQ restaurant in Des Moines 'til we're blue in the face, but you'll always assume that we're a little biased. That's why we rely on customer reviews to get the word out about why you really should give us a try. It is greatly appreciated by us anytime a customer takes the time to tell us about their experience at Wobbly Boots Roadhouse in Clive, and we hope their words mean something to you too. 

"I tried the brisket chili and stuffed mushrooms; both were incredible. While I was there, I observed the kitchen manager bring out a sample of mac and cheese to the manager. The two agreed that the side dish was not good enough, and opted to discard the entire batch and start fresh. They refused to serve an item that was inconsistent with its typical quality. This is what separates the great businesses from the good ones. There was a big party room separate from the main dining area, and I was told it can be reserved with a private buffet line for special events. This would be a great place for a corporate event or wedding rehearsal dinner. Looking forward to going back."
~James D, Yelp review

"We reserved the party room and had about 30 people for a birthday. Service was phenomenal! Food was good! Very cool atmosphere and decor!"
~Keisha Thompson, Facebook review
"This is a family favorite of ours! They have great food, drinks, and a fun setting. The pickles are amazing, both fried and regular. The smoked meats are always a favorite of ours, but we have never had anything we didn't like! Good Burgers, Salads, Soups, really everything!"

~Maria S., TripAdvisor review

"On short notice, Wobbly Boots put together a great space for our family to gather after a funeral. We served multiple appetizers along with a buffet of meats and sides for sliders. The servers were excellent. Food was fantastic. Our favorites were the stuffed mushrooms, bacon wrapped shrimp, and fried pickles. Everyone LOVED the macaroni and cheese too. The private dining space is perfect for a large family gathering or any other group!!"
~Mel I., Yelp review

"Eric and I shared a full rack of baby back ribs with sides. Meat falling off the bone, BBQ sauce had the right amount of kick. Sides were great also, especially the cheezy corn with ham. Most certainly will go there again, heard their Tenderloin sandwiches are to die for, can't wait "
~Joann Okuzono-Perkins, Facebook review 

"Great place! Food was excellent & our waiter was the best. Sorry I didn't get his name. Will definitely go back when in DM"
~Ruth Ritchey, Facebook review

"Had a nice, unplanned lunch. We ordered three meals: pulled pork sandwiches, turkey wrap, mac and cheese, fries. The food was fresh and warm. The bbq sauce was spicey and tasty. Plenty of leftovers. Great service. Tidy and clean. Nice atmosphere to chat or watch a game. The bar looked well stocked and staff was friendly. Try it!"
~asilemeter, TripAdvisor review

"Awesome food! A great atmosphere and a very attentive staff."
~Adam R Ran Buskirk, Facebook review

"We have been there twice in the last two weeks. The first time was for lunch, and seeing that our favorite entertainer from the Lake of the Ozarks, was going to be there the next week, we decided to go back. The staff was very accommodating and made reservations for us up front, to be close to Dale Blue. The food was very good and the portions very generous. The tenderloin was huge and delicious, the smoked meatloaf was very good, and the brisket sandwich was so lean and tender. We had a very fun evening and will be back. We live 90 miles from D.M."
~missswissIowa, TripAdvisor review

"Great food, great service! It's always about customer satisfaction!"
~Justin Whitcomb, Facebook review

"Work group went for lunch. Quick service and good food. Had burnt ends sandwich and it was great. Beans are also good with a slight tanginess. Will definitely be back."
~DesMoinesDenizen, TripAdvisor review

Hopefully you read something that struck a chord with you about our family restaurant in Des Moines and you're ready to give us a try. We're all a great big family here at Wobbly Boots Roadhouse, and we would love to add you as a part of that happy, extended family. 

Don't forget you can take home 16 oz. bottles of Wobbly Boots House Recipe BBQ Sauce!!

Second Location - Same Incredible BBQ!

Open EVERY DAY at 11:00 AM!

Like us on Facebook!

Follow us on Twitter!
Follow us on LinkedIn!
Follow us on Google+!

Wobbly Boots Roadhouse

1301 NW 114th St
Clive IA 50325

(515) 223-5700

Family Dinner Fun & Our Incredible Kids' Menu

Our family friendly restaurant in Des Moines is the perfect place for Mom, Dad, and all the kids to enjoy a delicious meal together in a homey atmosphere. When you do this at Wobbly Boots Roadhouse in Clive instead of around your own dinner table, we take care of the cooking and cleaning, and all you have to do is enjoy! 

Our Incredible Kids' Menu
We have an extensive menu with flavors sure to please everyone in your group, and for the younger diners (age 10 and under) that aren't quite ready for a full-sized meal, our incredible kid's menu is there to satisfy even the finickiest of eaters. 

As an added bonus, every Tuesday evening from 5-8 pm, KIDS EAT FREE!!! You can order 1 free kid's meal with the purchase of an adult meal when you dine in our Des Moines BBQ restaurant. All kids' meals come with a drink, and the food choices include:

-Pork Slider with fries- 

-Chicken Strips with fries- 

-Grilled Cheese with fries- 

-Mini Corn dogs with fries- 

-Kids Cheese Burger with fries- 

-Boat of homemade Mac & Cheese-

Family Dinner Table Rules
Well, these aren't "rules" so much as they are "guidelines" to help you and your family have the best dinner out you can possibly have. You're a part of the Wobbly Boots BBQ family while you are here, and we want to make sure everyone is having a great time. 

1. Get messy!
   If you're truly enjoying your BBQ, you're going to get some on you. That's what napkins are for, and we've got plenty of wet wipes and soap in the bathroom to clean you up when you're done.
2. Share
   We encourage everyone, especially the kids, to try something new every time you order from our menu. It's the best way to expand your tastes and find new flavors you love. If everyone shares a little bit of what they ordered with each other, you'll all get to try lots of new things.
3. Have fun
   We're taking care of the cooking, serving, and cleaning for you. This means that the whole family can spend the entire meal catching up with each other, sharing stories, and enjoying each other's company.  

Have the Boot at Home

You can purchase bottles of our homemade BBQ sauce and take home some of the delicious flavor we are known for. Carryout is always an option too, so you and the gang can have the best food in the Des Moines area without having to leave the comfort of your own home. We'll do the cooking and you can use the free time to watch a movie together or host a family game night.  

Don't forget about us the next time you get the entire extended family together too. Wobbly Boots Roadhouse can cater all of your get-togethers with our hickory-smoked meats and family style side dishes. 

Plan a family night right now, and get it started by loading everyone into the car and bringing them on over to the Boot. Our family is ready and waiting to show your family a great night out filled with amazing food and plenty of fun. 

Don't forget you can take home 16 oz. bottles of Wobbly Boots House Recipe BBQ Sauce!!

Second Location - Same Incredible BBQ!

Open EVERY DAY at 11:00 AM!

Like us on Facebook!

Follow us on Twitter!
Follow us on LinkedIn!
Follow us on Google+!

Wobbly Boots Roadhouse

1301 NW 114th St
Clive IA 50325

(515) 223-5700

7 Fun Facts To Share This St. Patrick's Day

St. Patrick's Day is this Friday. Even though it is originally an Irish holiday, we've come to love celebrating it right here in the United States. While you're out with your friends this weekend, here are a few interesting points of conversation from Wobbly Boots Roadhouse for you to share.  

Saint Patrick was NOT Irish
Ireland's patron saint was actually born in Britain to an aristocratic family. At the age of 16, he was kidnapped and forced to work as a slave in Ireland for 7 years. He eventually found his way home, but something kept telling him to go back to Ireland and do some good. 

The Shamrock was a Teaching Tool
St. Patrick used the many 3-leaf clovers that were growing all over Ireland to teach the pagans there about Christianity. Each leaf was used to represent an aspect of the Holy Trinity: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. 

Irish DON'T Eat Corned Beef
Well, not necessarily ever, but it's not a dish that is served for the St. Patrick's Day holiday in Ireland. This tradition was actually created in America. Corned beef was expensive and considered a luxury back in Ireland, but when the Irish immigrants came to America, ironically it was the most affordable meat for them to buy. Cabbage was also inexpensive. Irish-Americans put the two together, ate it often due to the price, and the recipe came to be thought of as an Irish dish.  

Americans Love Beer
We love a pint of that delicious Irish stout, Guinness, on occasion. Our BBQ restaurant in Des Moines even keeps it on tap regularly. On St. Patrick's Day we'll want to have an extra keg or two on standby, though, because Guinness consumption in America doubles nationwide.  

Irish Pubs Close For The Day
Residents of the United States tend to treat St. Patrick's Day as a big drinking holiday, but in another ironic twist, Ireland doesn't. It is actually a religious holiday over there, and many local pubs remain closed for the day. 

Irish Whiskey
Another popular drink requested on St. Pat's is Irish Whiskey. The word "whiskey" is an Anglicization of the first word in the Gaelic phrase "uisce betha" which means "water of life." Whiskey (always spelled with an "ey" on the end) from Ireland is made with a blend of malted and unmalted barley, while whisky (with only a "y" on the end) comes from Scotland, and it only uses malted barley.   

Don't Forget To Wear Your... Blue?
For hundreds of years, blue was associated with the holiday instead of the green we wear today. The reason for this is because Saint Patrick's color was historically blue. If you head out on St. Patrick's Day now without green somewhere on your body, the mischievous leprechauns will pinch you! (Unless your friends pinch you first!)   

There you go! Seven fun facts to impress your friends with when you come into Wobbly Boots Roadhouse this St. Patrick's Day for your pint of Guinness or shot of Jameson. Get your green on, head to the best restaurant in the Des Moines area, and share a little holiday fun here with us this weekend. 

Don't forget you can take home 16 oz. bottles of Wobbly Boots House Recipe BBQ Sauce!!

Second Location - Same Incredible BBQ!

Open EVERY DAY at 11:00 AM!

Like us on Facebook!

Follow us on Twitter!
Follow us on LinkedIn!
Follow us on Google+!

Wobbly Boots Roadhouse

1301 NW 114th St
Clive IA 50325

(515) 223-5700

The Incredible Moscow Mule (and our Amazing Versions of This Classic)

The best bar in the Des Moines area can be found inside Wobbly Boots Roadhouse in Clive! The 17  televisions for watching all the games, the incredible weekday Happy Hour specials, and the 18 taps featuring some of your favorite Iowa beers are all amazing parts of it, plus we've got an impressive mixed drink menu to add to all of that! 

You'll find a wide variety of delicious drinks on our Wobbly Boots BBQ cocktail menu, with an entire section devoted to some new twists on the classic Moscow Mule. If you aren't familiar with this popular beverage, we've gathered some interesting facts about it right here for you.  

The Moscow Mule - NOT From Russia! 
With Moscow in the title, one would assume that this drink originated in that particular Russian city. On the contrary, it was created right here in the good old U.S.A. John G. Martin, of F.F. Heublien Brothers out of Hartford, Connecticut, bought the Smirnoff vodka company in 1939. Unfortunately for him, Americans were not big vodka fans at the time, and it soon became evident that this was a hard product to sell. 

Martin brainstormed with Jack Morgan, the owner of a Los Angeles pub named Cock 'n' Bull, to come up with a way to convince customers to drink more vodka. Morgan's company produced their own house brand of ginger beer, which was also hard to sell at the time. Hoping to move both of their products, they combined the vodka and ginger beer, added a squeeze of lemon, and viola! The next popular cocktail was born. Over time people started using limes instead of lemons, but other than that, this classic recipe has stood the test of time.  

The Famous Copper Mug
The recipe can be altered slightly from time to time for new and exciting variations, but it's not officially a Mule drink without that beautiful copper mug. Most people will tell you that the copper is used to keep the drink at a perfect, ice-cold temperature. While the copper mug does seem to make the drink much colder while you are drinking it, the original reason for the device was actually a publicity stunt. 

Martin took this new delicious cocktail to bartenders across the country. Once they were hooked, he would ask them to pose for a Polaroid picture holding the copper mug and a bottle of Smirnoff. He'd leave one photo at the bar for publicity, and he'd take another copy to the next bar. Once the other bartenders saw that their competitors were offering this brand new sensation, they knew that they should too. 

Wobbly Boots' Mule Menu
We've been working on a new drink menu here at the Boot, and we've come up with some pretty tasty creations for you to try the next time you come in for the best BBQ in Des Moines. We've got one portion of the menu dedicated to our own amazing versions of the Moscow Mule. 

Every one of them come in that classic copper mug and contain ginger beer and a fresh squeezed lime, plus the following variety of ingredients:

• Wobbly Mule - made with Belvedere Premium UF 80 Vodka
• Pink Mule - made with Belvedere Pink Grapefruit Vodka
• Kentucky Mule - made with Bulleit 95 Bourbon
• Crisp Canadian - made with Crown Royal Apple Whisky, lime juice, & a splash of cranberry juice

Our Wobbly Boots Roadhouse Mule drinks are sure to please any lover of the classic cocktail, and they'll turn newcomers to the drink into fans. Take a look at the menu above, decide which looks the tastiest to you, think about which of our mouth-watering menu items you'd love to try it with, and then get over here. We're ready for you!    

Don't forget you can take home 16 oz. bottles of Wobbly Boots House Recipe BBQ Sauce!!

Second Location - Same Incredible BBQ!

Open EVERY DAY at 11:00 AM!

Like us on Facebook!

Follow us on Twitter!
Follow us on LinkedIn!
Follow us on Google+!

Wobbly Boots Roadhouse

1301 NW 114th St
Clive IA 50325

(515) 223-5700

The History of the Irresistible Onion Ring

America has a slight obsession with all things fried, but how can you blame us when it tastes so doggone good? Fryers create some of the best bar food in Des Moines, like our Famous Onion Rings. With our onion rings, we created a side dish so incredible that it earned its own spot on the appetizer menu too. Wobbly Boots Roadhouse's giant onion rings are practically a meal by themselves!

Our Famous Onion Rings
First, we start with great big, fresh, crispy yellow onions. These are cut into thick rings, then bathed in buttermilk. After that we hand-bread them in our specially seasoned flour. The final step is placing them in the fryer until they are the perfect golden brown. A side of chipotle ranch finishes the preparation, and your server brings them out to you hot, crisp, and irresistible! The only bad thing about our onion rings is the few moments you have to wait for them to cool off enough to bite into! 

The History of the Onion Ring
As with many popular foods, the official origin of the onion ring is unclear. Many different stories lay claim to creating this brilliant food. Here are a few of those stories.

• A Crisco advertisement in 1933 showed up in the New York Times featuring a recipe for deep-fried onion rings. It called for rings of onions to be dipped in milk and then dredged in flour. (That sounds about right to us!)  
• Kirby's Pig Stand, a restaurant chain founded in Oak Cliff, Texas with over 100 locations across the U.S.A in the 1940's, claims to have created the onion ring in the early 1920's. They also state that Texas Toast was all their idea too.
• Even before that, the Middleton New York Daily times published a recipe for French Fried Onions in 1910. They don't claim that this is the original onion ring, but it is dated earlier than the other claims and it sounds pretty familiar. 
• One more recipe discovered in John Mollard's cookbook "The Art of Cookery Made Easy and Refined" in 1802 was titled "Fried Onions with Parmesan Cheese." Calling for rings of onions dipped in a batter of flour, cream, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese all deep fried in "boiling" lard, this is definitely a predecessor to the onion ring we know and love today. 

How Do You Like Your Onion Rings?
Your favorite family restaurant in Des Moines prefers to serve our delicious onion rings with a side of chipotle ranch, but they are also incredible dipped in ketchup or our house-made BBQ sauce. During our research we found a few other dips that people enjoy with their onion rings. John Mollard's cookbook that we mentioned above calls for a sauce made of melted butter and mustard. Here are a few other variations we came across. How do they sound to you?

• Tangy ketchup
• Yogurt
• Sour Cream
• Cheese Dip
• (Personally, we'd stick with the chipotle ranch!)

Whether you choose to order our Famous Onion Rings as an upgraded side dish alongside the best BBQ in the Des Moines area or on a great big plate as an appetizer or to enjoy with an ice-cold beer, you know you're going to get the best onion ring in Iowa served to you very time. Come in to Wobbly Boots Roadhouse in Clive soon and give them a try. We've gotta warn you though, it's hard to eat just one! 

Don't forget you can take home 16 oz. bottles of Wobbly Boots House Recipe BBQ Sauce!!

Second Location - Same Incredible BBQ!

Open EVERY DAY at 11:00 AM!

Like us on Facebook!

Follow us on Twitter!
Follow us on LinkedIn!
Follow us on Google+!

Wobbly Boots Roadhouse

1301 NW 114th St
Clive IA 50325

(515) 223-5700