Iowans Can’t Stop Talking About The Legendary Pork Tenderloin Burgers At This Local Spot
Craving a tenderloin that barely fits the bun and absolutely fills the soul?
Smitty’s Tenderloin Shop at 1401 Army Post Rd in Des Moines, Iowa has locals debating crisp levels like it’s the state fair finals.
On my last visit, I watched a mountain of golden breading glide past the counter and knew I was in for a ride.
Stick around and you’ll get the scoop on the classics, the sides, and the saucy secrets that make this old-school spot an Iowa legend.
The Iconic Breaded Pork Tenderloin
First bite fireworks start with a plate that looks like it needs its own zip code.
The breaded pork tenderloin arrives thin, crisp, and proudly hanging over the bun like a cape.
You taste peppery crumbs, juicy center, and that signature crunch that locals swear by.
I ordered mine with pickles, mustard, and a whisper of mayo, then instantly questioned why I ever order anything else.
A diner at the counter nodded like we had joined a secret club. If you are chasing the classic, this is the reason the line forms before lunch.
Some folks want thicker cuts, and that is fair, but the texture here is the headline.
Pair with a cold soda and plan a nap.
This is humble Iowa greatness on a plate.
Chili Cheese Loin Magic
Enter the messy masterpiece known as the chili cheese loin.
It is the tenderloin’s wilder cousin, drenched in chili and draped with melty cheddar that strings like confetti.
I grabbed extra napkins and still wore a badge of honor on my shirt.
The chili brings gentle heat and a savory backbone that turns each bite into a full meal.
Staff suggested adding onions for a little bite and they were right.
You get comfort, chaos, and a grin that does not quit.
Fair warning, crisp levels soften under the chili blanket, but the flavor trade is worth it.
This is weekend fuel before a game or after a long workday.
Order courageously and lean in.
Onion Rings And Fried Friends
Side quests matter in Iowa, and the onion rings at Smitty’s prove it.
They arrive golden and stacked high, with a gentle crunch that plays perfectly with the tenderloin’s swagger.
I dip them in ranch and then pretend I plan to share — a lie everyone at the table sees coming.
Regulars debate rings versus mushrooms like it’s local sports talk radio, but both hit the salty snack zone without fail.
Jalapeño munchers add a playful kick that practically begs for a chocolate malt chaser.
When the basket lands, the entire table goes quiet for exactly three seconds — the universal Smitty’s pause.
Some reviews call the rings mild, so give them a shake of salt or a dunk in hot sauce and build your own flavor lane.
Choose your adventure and thank me later.
The fryer at Smitty’s does serious work without drama, turning simple sides into small-town legends.
Milkshakes And Malts Done Right
Sweet relief lives in a frosty metal cup.
The chocolate malt is thick, nostalgic, and just malty enough to taste like Saturday afternoons.
One sip cuts the savory and resets the palate for round two.
I watched a shake spin in the mixer and suddenly remembered why diners win hearts.
Strawberry comes bright, vanilla stays classic, and root drink on the side keeps things Midwest cool.
It is a small splurge with big charm.
If you went heavy on chili, a malt balances the spice without getting syrupy.
Share if you must, but order your own straw.
Dessert here feels like tradition, not an afterthought.
The Vibe: Vintage Counter Culture
Step inside and the 1950s say hello without a costume.
Red dinette sets, counter stools, and a cozy layout make conversations easy and portions look bigger.
I caught banter between staff and regulars that sounded like family reunion energy.
Service stays quick and friendly, even when the door keeps swinging.
Seating is limited, so off peak visits are gold.
The price point sits in the sweet spot for big plates and small budgets.
With a 4.5 star reputation and decades of stories, the charm is not staged.
You feel the history with every order slip.
It is a throwback that still knows how to feed a modern appetite.
Plan Your Perfect Visit
Strategy tastes better than ketchup, so check the hours before rolling in.
Smitty’s is open Mon to Sat 10 AM to 9 PM, Sun 12 to 4 PM, and it gets busy at lunch and early dinner.
I call ahead for takeout when the game is on.
Bring cash or card, bring friends, and bring an appetite that is not shy.
Prices sit around 10 to 20 dollars and the value lands squarely in your favor.
Parking is easy, smiles are easier.
Order the classic tenderloin first, then add rings or a malt to round it out.
Snap the obligatory overhang photo and tag your brag.
You will leave full, happy, and already plotting a return.
The Secret Sauce Sensation
What truly sets this burger apart is the secret sauce drizzled generously over the crispy tenderloin.
With a rich, tangy flavor profile, it elevates the entire dish to a new level.
Locals speculate about the ingredients, but the recipe remains a closely guarded secret.
As you take a bite, the contrast between the crunchy exterior and the soft, savory interior is pure bliss.
The sauce adds a zesty kick, making each mouthful unforgettable.
Pairing perfectly with a side of golden fries, it’s a meal that’s as comforting as it is satisfying.