First off we had a large party and the waitress was awesome. Drinks were good. Red beans and rice was very good. Collared greens were a little vinegary and needed to cut up to more edible size. They were also cold. The half chicken was overly smokey. Maybe a lighter wood would knock that down a bit. The chicken itself didn't really have much flavor and could have used a brine or something to impart some flavor once you got past the skin. The waitress was very good I felt I needed to say that twice. People said the brisket was okay. Overall okay but Jethros is better
Best BBQ in the area! I love the new waiting area that used to be the front dining area. We got to order drinks while we waited, and that passed the time! I love thier brisket, it is the best brisket you can get.
Some of the best smoked food I've ever had. Unique sides are outstanding. A lot of great Cajun flavors. Staff has a cool vibe and are very professional. Nice small building.
First time visiting Flying Mango. Good food, not your usual BBQ! We had the pork tenderloin and smoked half chicken. Others at our table had Cajun catfish and said it was very good! Excellent service by Lynn, friendly staff and owner!
I'll start with Mike, the owner, because sooner or later you'll want to meet him. Very knowledgeable about the area, music and his food. He guaranteed me I would never have had better brisket...............and he was right. It was phenomenal! Along with some outstanding catfish cakes, Mike's bar staff makes some very creative and delicious signature drinks. Thanks to Mike and Venessa for making our stop in Des Moines one to remember. We'll follow your Facebook page for listening room music opportunities.
Flying Mango is full of surprises! Don't let the drab exterior and location keep you away. Inside you'll find a clean modern eatery crammed with hungry diners. My half rack of BBQ ribs was delicious along with blackened catfish. Every dish at our table was great. Try the Mango Ice Tea! Parking is a challenge but worth it.
So shortly after the Flying Mango re-opened, my boyfriend and I were able to walk in and grab a seat!! I was actually pretty surprised to see the kitchen and people cooking right as you walk in. We ordered the chicken and fettuccine pasta with shrimp. It was very good & very well cooked! We also recommend the mango ice tea. The owner came to our table and talked with us (which is a huge thing in my opinion)! Asked how our food was and we talked a little about where we were from and what brought us to Flying Mango. We will definitely go again!!
This place was great! Food was exceptional and so was the owner. Couldn't have asked for better service. Food portions were, I took some home with me large. The owner was very friendly with stories as was the young lady who served us. Great atmosphere. Can't wait to go back and get the brisket, which was soo tender the owner slices it with a spoon, it was juicy and had such flavor. This place is the true hidden gem of Des Moines...
Finally got in to eat at this place and the wait was worth it. As you can see by my rating I loved my overall experience but not everything was pleasant. A group of friends and I made reservations, you have to make reservations for groups with 6 or more. Upon arriving at the restaurant it was clear that parking was going to be an issue. Once inside the arouma of smoked meats and BBQ hit your nose. They instantly make your mouth water. A very pleasant hostess greets you and makes sure your whole party has arrived. Once seated your waitress shows up to take drinks and then disappears only to come back a few mi utes later with all your correct drinks. Our group ordered some appetizers with our meals. The jerk chicken tacos were by the the favorite followed by as chicken dip, and coming in last was the car fish cake. Our main dishes were a variety of different options including a couple specials. One thing to know about the specials that you have to get there early because when they're out they are out. All of our food came out hot and delicious there was just a couple items that we were not a fan of. Most notably was the "What Guy Had", this is what Guy fieri ordered when he did Diners Drive-Ins and dives. No one at our table really enjoyed that. Overall we had an amazing time with good food I would just be very cautious on what you order as some of the prices are expensive because they are based off of current market value.
My husband and I were traveling from MI to CO. Des Moines was our half-way point. He found this place on Yelp and we were not disappointed. It was a gem - lucky to get in at 5:30. Service was fantastic, food even better, had a wonderful vibe and great people watching (especially watching owner Mike interact with his loyal customers). If you find yourself in Des Moines, check this place out!