An Eastern Iowa Restaurant Has the Best Pulled Pork in the State

If you're looking for delicious pulled pork, you don't have to travel too far!

Back in early March, the Iowa Pork Producers Association launched their annual Pulled Pork Madness Bracket. Every year, the organization takes nominations for restaurants across the state, and then Iowans can vote for their favorites online. But, only one restaurant can be named the champion...

After five years of nominations, Starbeck’s Smokehouse in Cedar Falls has finally won the bracket, earning the title of Pulled Pork Madness Grand Champion! The restaurant went up against The Roadhouse in Orange City in the final round, but ended up nabbing more votes to become the official winner.

According to a press release from the Iowa Pork Producers, Starbeck's goes through 1,000 to 1,200 pounds of pork shoulders EVERY WEEK! The release says:

"The meat is thoroughly rubbed with a house blend of seasonings that include salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, cumin, granulated garlic, onion, and cocoa powder. The butts are then slow-roasted over cherry, hickory, or oak wood for about 12 hours, until they reach 195 degrees."

The pulled pork in typically served on a sandwich with San Francisco sourdough bread and homemade barbecue sauce, but the menu has other options, too. J Moe’s Loaded Fries and Alex’s Iowa Philly are both topped with Starbeck's famous pulled pork. You can check out the full menu HERE.

If you want to check out the best pulled pork in the state, Starbeck's Smokehouse is located at 6607 University Ave in Cedar Falls. Visit the official website HERE.