Central Iowa barbecue makes USA TODAY's Restaurants of the Year list

Whatcha Smokin? BBQ + Brew in Luther, Iowa, recognized for its Texas-style brisket and burnt ends

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Whatcha Smokin? BBQ + Brew, a Central Texas-style barbecue restaurant in the small town of Luther, Iowa, has been named one of USA TODAY's Restaurants of the Year for 2026. The restaurant is known for its melt-in-your-mouth fatty brisket, smoky burnt ends, and dry-rubbed pulled pork, all smoked in-house using white and red oak woods.

Why it matters

This recognition from a national publication highlights how a small-town restaurant can gain national acclaim for its exceptional barbecue. It also showcases the growing popularity of Texas-style barbecue techniques and flavors, even in the Midwest.

The details

Whatcha Smokin? BBQ + Brew serves a range of barbecue dishes, including smoked turkey, pork loin, Frito pies, and brisket nachos. The restaurant's standout items are its Central Texas-style fatty brisket and burnt ends, which are smoked for hours to achieve a perfect balance of tenderness and flavor. The pulled pork is also a highlight, dry-rubbed with five spices and smoked for 12-14 hours.

  • Whatcha Smokin? BBQ + Brew was named one of USA TODAY's Restaurants of the Year for 2026, announced on February 11, 2026.

The players

Whatcha Smokin? BBQ + Brew

A Central Texas-style barbecue restaurant located in the small town of Luther, Iowa, known for its exceptional brisket, burnt ends, and pulled pork.

Gwen Page

The owner of Whatcha Smokin? BBQ + Brew, who expressed her pride and honor in the restaurant being recognized by USA TODAY.

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What they’re saying

“Well, put that in your pit and smoke it! I am beyond honored to share this incredible honor from USA TODAY with our talented, kind, and hard-working team. We bring big Texas inspiration to our 125-person town of Luther, Iowa, on the cornerstones of golden standard food, warm guest service, and local business support through our food partnerships and Iowa craft beers on tap.”

— Gwen Page, Owner, Whatcha Smokin? BBQ + Brew

The takeaway

Whatcha Smokin? BBQ + Brew's national recognition demonstrates that exceptional barbecue can come from unexpected places, and that small-town restaurants can gain national acclaim for their dedication to quality ingredients, traditional techniques, and warm hospitality.