City: Des Moines, IA

Category: Restaurants

Telephone: (515) 277-0005

Address: 2511 Cottage Grove Ave.

Description: A line forms every day at lunchtime in this cramped room a few blocks from the Drake campus, diners drawn in by the sweet, smoky smell wafting up from behind the low, brick building (dinnertime is a little less hectic). A good value is the “meal deal,” with a choice of smoked brisket, ham, pulled pork, chicken, or ribs. The pulled pork is especially succulent and tender, and the ribs are fall-off-the-bone wonderful, with a rub that’s not too spicy (you pick the sauce to squirt on the meat). Ribs are a limited item—they smoke only a certain amount each day, so get there early if you want to try them. A pan of free corn bread is set out for diners, and it’s a crusty, filling delight. Side dishes aren’t bad, with crispy coleslaw a particular standout. Woody’s does daily specials like smoked salmon on Thurs. Yummy homemade pies are wonderful if you haven’t already filled up on the ’cue. An outdoor patio provides a nice alfresco dining experience in warmer months. Closed Sunday.