The much hyped in Des Moines barbecue joint. I now see why people say they drive to Ames just to eat here. The brisket was more the texture of corned beef. The flavor was good but I prefer less fat. Next time I will try the ham or chicken for a leaner meat. The sauce though......pour all three in separate shot glasses and I will drink it straight. The sauce was so good I found myself drenching my meat which is not normal for me. They are delicious. It's a very casual environment and I could see going after work so I could enjoy a beer or three. I will be back often! read more

On a bbq road trip from Minnesota to Texas and Cornbred was our favorite stop! The pitmaster has won a ton of awards and it shows. The ribs were outstanding, they hit that sweet spot between tender and firm, not too fall off the bone fatty but not tough at all. Brisket was some of the best brisket I've ever had - flavorful and again, the perfect in-between too tender and too dry texture. The cornbread was of course delish as well as the beans, but the surprise side standout was the hallelujah potatoes! We tried to re-create at home (funeral potatoes I guess they're typically called) and ours came nowhere close. Loved that I could get a single rib to try with my brisket too. We were there at Sunday brunch time and the specialty entree menu looked amazing, but we were there for a straight bbq tasting. The only downside to this was we missed out on some of the regular bar snacks and entrees (next time Pig Candy!). On the con side the drinks were pretty overpriced - I didn't realize until after ordering that my michelada (typically cheap beer and tomato juice) was around $13. It's in a big old train depot which is very cool and hipster-y, but also makes for a somewhat sterile ambience for a bbq spot. Service wasn't great, but the servers were all seemingly young college kids so they get a pass. Not huge complaints, but be aware this is not a down-home BBQ joint by look and feel. But by taste? Yes! read more

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A much-needed addition to Ames and arguably one of the best restaurants in Ames. The service and food have been consistently good every time we've visited and given that they are typically pretty busy it seems fair to say that the rest of the community is pleased with Cornbred's offerings. Everything we've tried is good, but we especially liked the brisket, wings and pork ribs. The tomato and cucumber salad and baked beans are also great sides. Check them out! read more

I have eaten bbq in a lot of places, all over the county. This was an unexpected gem. Great service, all the food was amazing. If you're ever in Ames or Des Moines, make a trip for this. read more

Cornbred - Burnt Ends, Turkey, hallelujah Potatoes - Barbeque Near Me - Ames, Iowa

Great Food and a wonderful server! We were 1st timers at Cornbread and we sat outside as we brought our Border Collie too. It is a pet friendly place and we had a beautiful evening last night. Our server, Gracie was perfect! She was prompt, funny and knowledgeable about the menu and answered every question we asked. You couldn't ask for a better server and we just loved her. Management should give her a raise because she is the type of front line employee you would be lucky to get! She brought water to our thirsty pup. The food was really good. I had the brisket burger and it was juicy and flavorful. My husband had a pulled pork sandwich along with the other 2 in our party. They all enjoyed them. We had the hushpuppies which were nice and spicy and the sauce so yummy. We cooled our palates with refreshing teas and lemonade! The prices were good and the variety of meats excellent. We will go back again the next time in town and we hope we get our favorite server because she helped make this dining experience special! Hands down we recommend this place. read more

Initially slightly disappointed, now convinced: solid BBQ place right here in Ames. Very comfy and friendly dining experience without feeling too steeped in the traditionalism of many BBQ places. First visited after a full day's drive to move here from Deep BBQ Country. Had the brisket and chill (plus a cocktail and a beer, both excellent). The brisket and chill was ok. But perhaps my error was just not order BBQ as one normally does: pick some meat, pick some sides. That was what did it. Went back the other night with friends and had the burnt ends, ribs, and brisket. That was excellent. I'm really impressed by the ribs. They were very smoky but perfectly tender. Truly falling off the bone but not so much that they completely fell apart: basically perfect. It's also a really charming layout. It really does feel like a train might pull in (it's an old train station) but not in a "OMG we're gonna die" kinda way. One complaint/suggestion: a proper BBQ place needs to have some kind of solid spicy hot sauce. While they've always obliged my request for some kind of hot sauce, none of these are house-made. I guess maybe people around here don't have much of a taste for it, but to me a sauce with some heat is essential. read more

Food was really good and I was on my way to a 5 star review. But, first they were out of ribs and then as we were finishing our meal at 9:15 wand we had wanted to order dessert and another drink. We were told they close and stop serving at 9. Everywhere we looked said 10. Had we known that, we could have ordered the dessert and 2nd drink before 9, but it took our server quite a while to check back with us. So tired of all these restaurants in Ames closing at 9 pm on a Friday night. read more

Such an awesome restaurant for the middle of Iowa. I've personally loved Cornbred since before their brick and mortar location, visiting their truck as often as I could find them! The atmosphere they have created while repurposing this old rail depot is incredible. Very modern, but rustic and a little hip all in one! I've eaten BBQ all over the country, and Cornbred is truly some of the best you will find, and the best in the state. Incredibly tender, perfectly seasoned, perfectly moist. read more

Cornbred - Skillet Mac, Apple Pork & Beans, Beef Brisket, Pulled Pork Shoulder - Barbeque Near Me - Ames, Iowa

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Great atmosphere, beautiful building-old train depot, very relaxed, casual and great service. read more

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Excellent service, interesting cocktails, and amazing food. My coworkers have VERY split opinions about Cornbred (since the closest thing to cornbread they serve is a corn pudding), but I thought this place was great. Go with a group and eat family style so you can try all the meats and sides. I was really pleasantly surprised by the beef brisket. The pig candy, Brussels sprouts, and hallelujah potatoes were table favorites. I'll definitely be back with friends! read more

YUM, great BBQ and the corn bread was so yummy. I ordered a coke and they serve you the old fashion bottle which I loved. The Pulled Pork was super flavorful and juicy. It was a very cute, modern and cozy vibe. Our waiter was nice and timely. Overall I loved the food. read more

Wow! Just....freaking WOW! Great service...awesome atmosphere...kicking drinks...phenomenal food!!! A must if you are in Ames, IA! Highly recommended!!! Wes...our server was on point! read more

Cornbred - Margarita!! Yummy!!! - Barbeque Near Me - Ames, Iowa

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The food was tasty. They give you a nice serving for the price. The prices are on the little higher side, though. The restaurant was clean. We were seated by the owner. Service was quick. read more

Over priced mid food and they don't have enough staff. Even tried going to brunch and was not impressed always out of the cinnamon rolls.

Wow! Cornbred BBQ was recommended by the admissions counselor at Iowa State and it did not disappoint. They serve an appetizer that is Brussels sprouts with pork belly and it is a a must have. It's the best blend of savory and sweet. I could have eaten it as my meal it was so delicious. The portions are large. We took home leftovers. I ordered a Moscow mule and it was tasty also. The beef brisket was just right and the cornbread was delicious. Our server, Katie was kind, professional, and on top of her service. I met Emily one of the owners and she was so engaging it was as if we were old friends. I wish we had room for dessert as I wanted to try the chocolate bread pudding. We will be back again. read more

Showed up to Ames and found this pleasant surprise on Pearl. Being from Kansas City and having family in Texas, I consider myself to be a barbecue snob. Yet this place could exist in both Kansas City and Texas. read more

I went here a month ago and the food was excellent and I look forward to trying different meals in the future.

Amazing beer selection and the half rack of ribs was fall off the bone perfect! The ambiance was nice and I loved the repurposed train depot. Service was good but not great thus the 4 star score. On the way out chef said thank you for visiting which was honestly good customer service. read more

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Best bbq spot in Ames! The place is so nice and friendly! Such a big restaurant with a lot of space! The food is excellent and visiting is a must! read more

Cornbred - Barbeque Near Me - Ames, Iowa

Service was great! All around food was delicious. The candied bacon 5/5. Price point was great, food was great. If you're looking for a non chain restaurant and want some quality grub, I'd recommend give it a shot. read more

Open and buzzy place to enjoy simple and filling lunch. Great Mac and cheese. Sunny and warm space. The train depot makes this location perfect with easy parking and location to stroll down town after. The owner has created a fun location for meeting friends and enjoying a night out. read more

Cornbread and butter beans -- song comes to mind with this pace! Haha This place was wayyy cool. Fun environment. We ate upstairs. Had a little bit of everything. I enjoyed the ambience. My friend enjoyed the food a little more than me because it had a lot of sugar in it and a few things were a little too sweet for my palette but still some good flavors and happy vibes. They fixed the happy hour mule I had so I was a happier camper...It was super sugary o too of the food... they improved it upon remaking. I would eat here again just because it is so pretty, so fun, has great service and views. all around buzzing good. read more

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I'm torn on my rating here. There were things I liked and things that were frustrating/disappointing. I had heard when I was in Ames earlier in the year that this was a good place to eat, but it was closed on the day I was there so I bookmarked it for my next visit. Overall I love the set up of the building and the atmosphere. I did not like the way it was presented that I would be at the bar when I said I was alone - I'm a short fat man and those tall chairs are not comfortable or easy to get up and down on. So then I was taken upstairs - they did ask if it was okay and it kind of looked like my options were tall tables, the bar or outside downstairs, so I said okay. I did not like the menu - I had checked this out before I got there and didn't like it but since I had heard good things about it and had it bookmarked - I decided to give it a shot. I found it frustrating that they are named Cornbred and they didn't have Cornbread with your meal - I realize it's spelled different and has different meanings, but come on this should be basic in my mind. The have a full bar but no fountain soda and the cans are something like $1.50 a piece. There was no two/three meat meals - you had to figure that out yourself and no sides come with these meats - the sides run 3 or 4 bucks but the menu insinuates that the portions wil be generous. I had the cornbread pudding - which was good, but honestly I wanted it served with butter and honey and it was a regular size slice - good but not worth the $3 bucks when I know you can make a really good pan of cornbread pudding for about that amount, lol. I got the ribs and they were good - about the price I expected. They were well cooked and meaty. I was very happy with them. The sauce options are what are making me give them that 4th star and only them. The mustard sauce was okay - I am not a fan of mustard bbq sauce, but I had to try it. The sweet and saucy sauce was very good but the most amazing sauce was this pepper vinegar. Oh my gosh it alone is getting a full star - it was amazing - truth be told I mixed the sweet and spicy and the pepper vinegar on the majority of the bites of my meat and it was so good. I am going to have to do some experimentation so I can attempt to make my own. My waitress was great - very attentive, on top of what needed to be done and helpful. Will I go back? I am not sure - I am not in Ames much but I'm not sure I would even send someone there if I knew they were going without letting them know it's gonna be a little pricey' read more

I've eaten here several times and always had a good meal, but you should know that this is a place that changes it's menu frequently. If you really like a certain dish you can't count on being able to have it again if you return. read more

Omg!! It was amazing. I had the burnt ends, a rib by the bone, the cornbread pudding, and the apple beans....It was amazing! Will go back when in the area. read more

Cornbred - Burnt ends, Cornbread Pudding, Apple wood beans and a rib. - Barbeque Near Me - Ames, Iowa

Enjoyed a dinner with friends on the patio. Pleasant environment and nice on a warm and sunny afternoon but be ready to put conversations on hold for freight trains rolling noisily past. This is an old train station located next to active tracks. Service was prompt and friendly. Food delivery time was acceptable for a group of 10. However, beverages, even sodas, came from the bar inside which made them very slow to get to the table. There is a bar outside but it was not staffed. The menu has a fine variety of BBQ, burgers, salads, etc. check it out on line. Tasty selections! Be sure to start with the Pig Candy. It is SO good! One of the group had a salad and it was sizable! The Craft Meats are generous 1/2 lb servings. Another one of us had the Burnt Ends--also looked good and was well liked. The burger listed on the menu has a preparation that changes, today it was a mushroom/Swiss with onion ring. Just ask the server what it is for the day. I didn't have that but it looked really good. My wife had the burger plain which you can order, no problem. Good choice. I had the tenderloin--Pork Loin Sandy, probably the thickest I've had--easily 1/2" thick! Described as having Nashville Hot Oil and, wow, it was. I found it really, really spicy for my palate. Be prepared. Perhaps order without the hot if you won't like that. But the breading and meat ratio was great with that thick loin, and the preparation was excellent too--crispy outside, tender and not dry inside. I'd have again happily but ask for something not spicy. Many side choices and sandwiches (Hand Helds) come with good sized servings of fries (excellent preparation) or chips (also excellent preparation). In short, we'll worth a visit. I'm ready to visit again. read more

It was not my idea to come here but they insisted - said the fries were great and I'd find something I like. I'm vegan. They said they had a couple plant-based menu items - being vegan is a little more than that - plant based AND healthy. I had the "cucumber salad" - pickles with pickled onions. Cowboy caviar - served with deep fried pita. French fries - well technically a vegetable, goodness knows what they were fried in - no one knew or much cared. Cornbread muffins with gooey stuff. Couldn't eat much of any of it. Felt like someone had punched me in the gut, and they did not have wheelbarrow service to the car - I asked. That we are in the middle of a crippling healthcare crisis is not a mystery to me - this is the kind of diet that causes it. I'll pass next time. Of course it "tastes good" and satisfies - it is the stuff of cave people - saturated fat, salt and likely sugar - called "value added" ingredients for the brick in the stomach effect - I just call them unhealthy, unimaginative and cheap. Would have been happier with a bag of broccoli florets from the grocery store. read more

Great food, fast friendly service. Authentic bbq, rustic atmosphere. Drove an hour out of the way on a recommendation In Desmoine, did not regret it, wetried 4 meats 3 apps, and 2 sides loved them all. read more

I want so badly to like this establishment as a local. The potential is for sure there. However, the past 3 visits (most recently being this past weekend on the patio) have made it very difficult to keep returning. The most recent visit was with my sister who was in town visiting & my boyfriend. We wanted to do a late breakfast/brunch. We decided on Sunday for this. For starters, they did not have a waffle maker & some story was made up about that. I had my heart set on the cornbread waffle with pork... but it was not available. I ended up ordering some soggy nachos with unseasoned scrambled eggs on top. I ended up sharing food with my boyfriend & sister. Of note- on a previous visit they were out of brisket. That's like a sandwich shop being out of bread. Our service was by far the worst it's ever been at Cornbred. My sister & I are both servers. Had our server been more attentive we would have had a higher check & in turn put more money in her pocket. We were not checked in on after our food arrived & sat there with empty drinks for 30+ minutes. Looking around I'd say the patio was less than 1/2 full. There were a few other servers out there as well. The only time our server did come over was after we had the giant cinnamon roll (of which the outer edges were burned), to ask if she could wrap it up for us as she saw the flies sitting on it. Overall, the food was served luke warm at best & this is the 3rd visit it has arrived this way. To top it off, they were out of Sazerac for a speciality brunch cocktail. My only suggestion is- If items are unavailable simply strike out the options on the menu's- after all they were paper menu's. I think I will be giving up on Cornbred for quite awhile read more

I have been here 2 times now extraordinary awesome meats both times. We sat in the patio area and even had train flying by the old station. No noise or shaking but cool vibes. Awesome brown sugar Lemonade! read more

Our table got a variety of foods. I wasn't really impressed with any of the sides. The cornbread pudding was good but not great. Updated: tried it two years later a couple of times and the food was better. The sticky ribs were awesome. read more

They still need to have cornbread on menu but always yummy. Love the yummy bbq! Fun location!

Food was exceptional, service was even better. It's my new "every time I'm in Ames" go to. And it's an old train station.

I was here during RAGBRAI so it was open seating on the patio. Service was very good, considering the huge crowds. My ribs were quite good. A live bluegrass band rounded out the package. I would recommend read more

Great BBQ in Ames. The sides are where it's at for me. I loved them all. The atmosphere though really makes it worth it. The old train station was redone so beautifully. I love it! read more

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We stopped by on a college visit to Iowa State and were in the mood for BBQ and spent a number of years in KC with some excellent BBQ. We had a great meal and really enjoyed our dinner. The candied bacon was a great start to the meal and the 5 of us shared a bunch of smoked meats, with cornbread, beans, and pineapple slaw (this was surprisingly good). The cocktails were tasty and they had a nice local beer selection. The ambiance was fun in an old train depot. You also must get the carrot cake. One of the best pieces of carrot cake we have ever had. read more

Surprisingly good barbecue for such a small town, the prices are also very reasonable as well. The hallelujah potatoes and aguas frescas are always good. But what was even better was the service, my server, Sophie, is the star of the restaurant. I asked for butter, and they got it immediately. I asked what the new aguas frescas were and they knew them like the back of their hand. The kitchen staff got my food out so fast I don't even think the ink dried on the order sheet read more

Been here a few times and weeded out what we don't care for. Yesterday we had the Brussel sprouts (add the tangy mustard!), Brisket burger, Mac & Cheese with Pulled pork and Three little pigs. Side step the hushpuppies (meh), street corn salad, and hallelujah potatoes (definitely not funeral potatoes). Beans were amazing as was the cornbread pudding. All the meats were astounding as was service. Every entree has been spot on and the sauces are incredible. read more

Went here for dinner to surprise my husband who loves anything meat lol. The service and food/drinks were all very good. We didn't make a reservation but we were seated pretty quickly for a Saturday. We tried a few of their specialty alcohols and they were all pretty good. We got quite a bit of food, one of them being the chicken wings and those were yummy. My husband got brisket and red velvet cake and he was very satisfied. Definitely plan to come back here again. read more

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One of the best spots in Ames - I almost always recommend Cornbred as a place for people to go. Great food that is reasonably priced and the service is always quick. read more