Few Midwestern foods inspire the kind of regional loyalty — and friendly rivalry — as the breaded pork tenderloin. At its core, it’s Iowa’s take on the German schnitzel: a lean pork cutlet pounded thin (or sometimes left unapologetically thick), hand‑breaded, and fried until the crust crackles. While both Iowa and Indiana claim bragging rights for inventing the sandwich, the exact origin remains as delightfully fuzzy as a diner countertop debate. What’s not in dispute is how deeply it’s woven into local food culture.
Depending on where you order one, the tenderloin might arrive stretched across a plate like a golden frisbee or served as a hefty, bun-sized cut that prioritizes juiciness over circumference. From century-old butcher counters to modern beer halls and beloved neighborhood bars, every kitchen puts its own spin on this comfort-food icon — and every Iowan has an opinion about who does it best.
Here’s a look at five places in the Des Moines metro that offer some of the best breaded pork tenderloins.
B&B Grocery, Meat & Deli
A beloved hybrid of butcher shop and deli, B&B Grocery has earned its reputation by delivering some of the most memorable sandwiches in the city. Its breaded pork tenderloin — cut on‑site and fried to a crisp — is emblematic of the shop’s straightforward, flavor-first approach. This tiny institution gained national attention after being featured on the Travel Channel’s “Bizarre Foods,” drawing acclaim for its killer sandwiches. Expect a rustic, generously sized tenderloin served on a classic bun, the kind of no-nonsense sandwich that feels right at home in a century-old mom-and-pop setting.
Price: Up to $15 per person
Details: 2001 S.E. Sixth St., Des Moines, 515-243-7607, bbgrocerymeatdeli.com.
The Iowa Taproom
The Iowa Taproom offers a modern spin on a classic Iowa experience, pairing its well-known tenderloin with one of the largest selections of Iowa craft beers in the state. The tenderloin is a prime example of what Iowa is known for, a faithful execution of a beloved regional staple. Expect a crisp, hand-breaded pork cutlet served on a soft bun that complements the meat’s golden crust. The atmosphere — industrial, lively and distinctly Iowan — makes this a top pick for those who want a tenderloin paired with an elevated dining experience.
Price: Up to $15 per person
Details: 215 E. Third St., Des Moines, 515-243-0827, iowataproom.com.
Kelly’s Little Nipper
Operating in one form or another since 1908, Kelly’s Little Nipper embodies the timeless neighborhood bar experience — wood‑paneled walls, cold beer and the kind of tenderloin that keeps regulars coming back. Known for its thick, crunchy breading and perfectly moist interior, this tenderloin delivers a hearty bite without sacrificing tenderness. The sandwich is served on a simple, soft bun that supports the oversized cutlet while letting the crisp coating take center stage. This is the quintessential townie‑bar tenderloin: filling, unfussy, and as comfortable as the bar stools that have held generations of Des Moines locals.
Price: Up to $15 per person
Details: 1701 E. Grand Ave., Des Moines, 515-265-2031, kellyslittlenipper.com.
Mr. Bibbs
Mr. Bibbs is a north‑side Des Moines classic, famed for its generously sized, no-nonsense breaded pork tenderloin. The tenderloin here leans thick and hearty, cooked to a golden crisp with just the right amount of breading — never greasy, always flavorful and consistently well-seasoned. Served on a simple bun that lets the meat shine, it’s the kind of sandwich you order when you want a true Iowa-style meal without the fuss. Pair it with their legendary homemade onion rings or crinkle-cut fries, both fan favorites that round out the experience. Cash only and a drive-thru.
Price: Up to $15 per person
Details: 2705 Sixth Ave., Des Moines, 515-243‑0929.
Smitty’s Tenderloin Shop
Smitty’s Tenderloin Shop has earned its place as the undisputed classic in the Des Moines tenderloin lineage — an institution that has been serving locals and visitors since 1952. Known as the “Godfather” of DSM tenderloins, the shop turns out more than 3,000 tenderloins a week, a testament to both its popularity and consistency. Its sandwich was even named Best Sandwich in Iowa by People Magazine in 2019, solidifying its place in tenderloin history. Expect a hand-breaded, golden‑fried cutlet that spills over the bun in true Iowa fashion, letting the crisp breading contrast with a tender, juicy interior. The sandwich comes simply dressed, allowing the pork itself to shine as the star.
Price: Up to $15 per person
Details: 1401 Army Post Road, Des Moines, 515-287‑4742, smittystenderloin.com.
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Susan Stapleton is the entertainment editor and dining reporter at The Des Moines Register. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, or drop her a line at sstapleton@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Where to find the best breaded pork tenderloins in Des Moines
Reporting by Susan Stapleton, Des Moines Register / Des Moines Register
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