Iowa Restaurant and Dining Guide

Ah, Iowa - the state that's more than just cornfields and hog farms! This Midwestern gem packs a flavorful punch that many underestimate. Right from the shadow of its golden domed capitol in Des Moines, stretching towards the rolling Mississippi on the East, and reaching up to the chilly Minnesota border, Iowa's got a platter of culinary offerings that will have your taste buds dancing the polka. A hot spot of Midwestern hospitality, the state offers mouth-watering dishes that'll give you a reason to stay just a bit longer and explore the cities that brew this gastronomic magic. From breaded pork tenderloins that are larger than the bun they're served on, to the state's own invention of the taco pizza, you're about to be knee-deep in a world of flavor. So roll up your sleeves, and let's take a delicious detour down Iowa’s culinary lane!

The Culinary Capital: Des Moines

Ever heard of the phrase, "As goes Des Moines, so goes Iowa"? Me neither, but it fits the bill when we're talking about the Hawkeye State's food scene. Iowa's capital city, Des Moines, is an epicurean haven that blends heartland classics with cosmopolitan flair.

First on the list is Smitty's Tenderloin Shop, a haven for pork lovers. The breaded pork tenderloin is a beautiful testament to the local culinary tradition. Biting into one is a revelation: crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and transcendent all around. If you like it spicy, the chili cheese tenderloin is a mouth-watering option. Oh, and their Beefburger? Simply delectable! Then there's Chicago Speakeasy, a place that practically oozes charm and history. Their Steak De Burgo? A symphony of flavors with butter, fresh basil, and garlic lavished over succulent beef medallions. And the Bar-B-Que Pork Ribs are a carnivorous dream; tender ribs smothered in tantalizing sauce, they're a ticket to hog heaven.

Not forgetting 7 Stone Pizzeria in West Des Moines, which tosses traditional pizza-making rules out of the window and replaces them with audacious creativity. Their taco pizza combines comfort food staples in a surprising way. Or go for the Vodka Pie pizza; it's a creamy, savory dream that lures you back for more. Oh, and there’s Jesse's Embers, a relic from the city's once-booming supper club scene. Grab the shrimp cocktail for starters, follow it up with the grilled pork tenderloin sandwich, and finish with their London Broil, a decadent offering of sliced top sirloin served on toasted bread.

And once your food tour is complete, soak up some culture and history by taking a leisurely stroll through the Des Moines Water Works Park or browse contemporary art at the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Or if you fancy something indoors, why not explore the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden or visit the bustling Des Moines Downtown Farmers' Market?

A Taste of Heritage: Iowa City

Moving eastward, we venture into Iowa City, a charming, bustling locale brimming with both culture and comfort food. If the phrase "literary city" makes you think of boring food, let Iowa City prove you wrong!

The city's vibrant culinary scene is a testament to its history and the diverse influences that have shaped it. Let's begin our gastronomic tour at Shakespeare's Pub and Grill, a cozy joint where you can sample a Bbq Chicken Flatbread. Grilled chicken slathered in BBQ sauce, accented by red onion and a three cheese blend – it's a sonnet in every bite! And if you're in the mood for a little heat, try their Buffalo Chicken Wrap, a perfect harmony of chicken strips tossed in a fiery buffalo sauce and paired with crisp lettuce, tomato, and cheese.

Next stop? Iowa Chop House, a champion of locally sourced, artisanal food. Their Four Cheese Macaroni is like a warm hug, with smoky gouda, creamy cheddar, and cream cheese, topped with crispy bacon and onion haystack. If you're after a lighter fare, their Granny Salad is a delightful ensemble of Granny Smith apples, walnuts, mixed greens, goat cheese, all dressed in a wild berry vinaigrette. You can't leave town without stopping by BlackStone for their Smoked Sirloin or the Buffalo Chicken Flatbread. And while you're at it, don't miss The Airliner's Pork Tenderloin – a deliciously breaded Iowa tenderloin served on a ciabatta roll.

To stretch your legs after the food indulgence, visit the Englert Theatre, or take a peaceful walk in Hickory Hill Park. If history is your thing, make a pit stop at the Old Capitol Museum to get a taste of Iowa's political history.

A Flavorful Excursion: Dubuque

Dubuque, nestled along the mighty Mississippi, marries history with a modern, yet classic Midwest food culture. This rivertown offers an array of unique dining experiences and attractions.

Pepper Sprout Midwest Cuisine is a must-visit spot with a menu that changes with the seasons, ensuring fresh and vibrant flavors. Try their Grilled Duroc Pork Tenderloin, cooked to perfection and accompanied by a homemade blueberry barbeque sauce. Bison Osso Buco, slow-roasted to tender perfection in a Cajun roasted onion demi sauce, is another winning pick. A trip to Brazen Open Kitchen will make you understand why their Halibut, Shrimp & Grits, and Soppressata & Calabrian Chili are popular picks. Caroline's Restaurant, on the other hand, brings together Blue Cornmeal Idaho Rainbow Trout, Bacon-Wrapped Iowa Pork Tenderloin, and Cherrywood Smoked Duck Breast in an unforgettable culinary symphony.

After a day filled with culinary delights, wind down by visiting the Crystal Lake Cave or the Mines of Spain Recreation Area. Or immerse yourself in the aquatic world at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.

Down-Home Comfort: Sioux City

Winding our way west, we land in Sioux City, a city known for its vibrant mix of cultures. The city's food scene offers a unique blend of comfort food, signature dishes, and a healthy sprinkling of adventurous fare.

Start at Billy Boy Drive-Thru, a local institution. Their Pork Tenderloin Sandwich is an exemplar of the Iowa classic, while the Loose Meat Sandwich will have you falling in love with its simple, savory goodness. Craving more? Swing by the Tastee Inn & Out. The Super T Sandwich packs their legendary Tastee meat into a bun with pickle and mustard, offering a meaty experience that's truly a cut above. Meanwhile, the Original Tastee Sandwich is a love letter to pure 100% ground beef, temptingly seasoned and served crumbled on a bakery-fresh bun.

SoHo Kitchen & Bar should be next on your list. Here, comfort food gets a gourmet twist, with dishes like Jambalaya Grill and Chicken Pot Pie making waves. Don’t forget to try the Blackened Chicken & Cajun Pasta - the homemade creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce is a knockout! Want to spice up your journey? Visit Diamond Thai Cuisine for their Lemon Steamed Fish and Ginger Salmon, both of which will transport you to the streets of Bangkok.

End your day by exploring the rich local history at the Sioux City Public Museum, or visit the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center to retrace the steps of the famous explorers.

Culinary Creativity: Cedar Rapids

Heading back east, we pull into Cedar Rapids, the city of five seasons. A hub of innovation, it’s no surprise that their food scene is teeming with creativity.

The Blind Pig serves burgers that will make you swoon. Try the A-1 Steakhouse Burger, topped with smoked bacon, bleu cheese crumbles, onion tanglers and Sriracha aioli, or if you dare, take on the Diablo Burger, loaded with jalapenos, ghost pepper cheese and sriracha mayo. Looking for a unique pizza experience? Bop's Pizza has you covered. Try the Crab Rangoon pizza or the Taco Pizza, both are like parties for your tastebuds. Cap off your gastronomic adventure with a slice of Rhubarb or Dutch Apple pie from Kathy's Pies & Bakery. If you're a traditionalist, their Pumpkin Pie is a classic that never disappoints.

After your meal, explore the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, stroll through the beautiful Palisades-Kepler State Park, or reconnect with nature at the Indian Creek Nature Center.

Epicurean Adventures: Davenport

Our culinary odyssey concludes in Davenport, a riverside city that masterfully blends the old and the new, a trait reflected in their dining scene.

Begin at Duck City Bistro, where classic American cuisine meets innovative culinary techniques. Try the Filet Melissa, a succulent filet mignon adorned with a creamy Brie cheese sauce, served with candied corkscrew bacon and steamed asparagus. Craving comfort food? Head over to Machine Shed Restaurant Davenport. Their Roasted Stuffed Iowa Chop, a winner in the National Pork recipe contest, is a must-try. Another standout is The Shed's World Famous Baked Potato Soup, a creamy, comforting chowder loaded with tender potatoes. Fancy some seafood? Thunder Bay Grille Davenport offers a sublime Salmon Fresca and a Bison Smoked Meatloaf that will have you coming back for seconds.

Before you leave Davenport, make sure to visit The Putnam Museum and Science Center, take a walk across the Davenport Skybridge, and visit the Freight House Farmers Market for some local delicacies.

Savoring Iowa's Delicious Diversity

Iowa’s culinary landscape is a beautifully woven tapestry of traditions, flavors, and innovation. The state offers a variety of epicurean delights that are as diverse as the cities they hail from. Whether it's the classic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich in Des Moines, the eclectic flatbreads of Iowa City, the gourmet comfort food of Sioux City, the innovative burgers of Cedar Rapids, or the delectable Filet Melissa of Davenport, there is something for every palate.

These culinary gems, combined with the state’s vibrant culture and unique attractions, make Iowa a must-visit destination for all those eager to discover America’s heartland through its food. As we bid adieu to our Iowa adventure, we hope this guide sparks your desire to explore and savor the cornucopia of flavors that the Hawkeye State has to offer. Happy eating and safe travels!

Must-Try Restaurants in Iowa

Bop's Pizza

921 Blairs Ferry Rd NE Suite 130, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402

The Detroit style Ham and Kraut is a winner. The outside ring of crust excellent. Between my adult son and I we ate a little over half of a large, and ...

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Superb78 Reviews4.8

Pepper Sprout Midwest Cuisine

378 Main St, Dubuque, IA 52001

AMAZING!!!! i had the crab mac and my boyfriend had the filet. we shared the watermelon caprese and peach cheesecake dessert. amazing service and sweet a...

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Superb62 Reviews4.8

Iowa Chop House

223 E Washington St, Iowa City, IA 52240

We had a delightful waitress who met our needs well. The menu is different sobe sure you pay attention to how things are served here. The tap area was in...

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Superb73 Reviews4.5

Kathy's Pies & Bakery

616 5th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401

Went in today on a Friday afternoon, two people were waiting to be helped when I walked in. Wasn’t greeted, which was fine as she was helping someone. Sh...

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Superb55 Reviews4.7

The Blind Pig

3325 Center Point Rd NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402

We do not live in town and we had our dog with us, so we needed a place we could eat outside with her. We loved it, our server immediately gave her a b...

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Superb131 Reviews4.5

Shakespeare's Pub And Grill

819 S 1st Ave, Iowa City, IA 52245

Somehow I just ate here for the first time. I have been searching for my favorite Reuben and this one was it. Distant second and third are n liberty blue...

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Superb91 Reviews4.5

SoHo Kitchen & Bar

1024 4th St, Sioux City, IA 51101

We started off with the mozzarella stick appetizer. I ask for wings and they had NONE. BOMBOCLAT. A whopping $11 for an appitizer. FOOD POISONING. They e...

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Good82 Reviews4

Diamond Thai Cuisine

515 W 7th St, Sioux City, IA 51103

Absolutely love everyone here and they make the best food EVER. Some of the best thai food i’ve had anywhere! 10/10.

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Superb61 Reviews4.6

Billy Boy Drive-Thru

2328 Riverside Blvd, Sioux City, IA 51109

I’ve been coming to Billy Boys to get ice cream since I was a kid and it’s still amazing! Prices are incredibly cheap. They’ve got a solid crew that work...

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Good48 Reviews3.9

Tastee Inn & Out

2610 Gordon Dr, Sioux City, IA 51106

Can't wait to make the trip again ??. Wonderful restaurant of Lincoln's past and it's always good to get some of those onion chips and dip...

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Good60 Reviews4.1

Thunder Bay Grille Davenport

6511 N Brady St, Davenport, IA 52806

Outstanding. Will definitely return. The beef wellington was great, awesome mashed potatoes, asparagus was great, the creme brulee was top notch. Even th...

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Good188 Reviews3.7

Smitty's Tenderloin Shop

1401 Army Post Rd, Des Moines, IA 50315

The food was Great and portions were huge. Pricing was reasonable.
Outstanding customer service

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Superb99 Reviews4.3

BlackStone

503 Westbury Dr #1, Iowa City, IA 52245

One of the top restaurants in the Iowa City Area. Delicious martinis, and they have half-price martinis on tuesdays! The food is good, at least everythin...

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Good90 Reviews3.9

Duck City Bistro

115 E 3rd St, Davenport, IA 52801

Our group was there for the second time for our outing. Top notch service and food. Chef is animated and a great host. Enjoyed the laughs after the meal ...

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Superb99 Reviews4.3

Chicago Speakeasy

1520 Euclid Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313

When I give something five stars you can bet it earned it. It's a bit pricey but worth it and if you like a good salad bar, this is your place! ?

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Good176 Reviews4.2

Jesse's Embers

3301 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312

Jessey's is a steak place. Go for the steak.

Some of the best steak I've had in years has been Jessey's ribeye steak.&l...

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Superb66 Reviews4.6

7 Stone Pizzeria

9350 University Ave #18, West Des Moines, IA 50266

We tried this for the first time. I really can’t think of a single positive. I mean, I’m positive I won’t order again, especially for the price. Not good...

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Good57 Reviews4.2

Machine Shed Restaurant Davenport

7250 Northwest Blvd, Davenport, IA 52806

We had one of our poorer experiences this time compared to all of our previous times there.

It was late in the day and we felt the he...

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Superb245 Reviews4.3

Caroline's Restaurant

200 Main St, Dubuque, IA 52001

Food was ok but took a long time to get it. Waitress was friendly and was doing her best considering the food took so long to get there. The hostess was ...

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Good92 Reviews3.7

Brazen Open Kitchen | Bar

955 Washington St #101, Dubuque, IA 52001

It's a bit of a hike from Cedar Rapids, but well worth the drive. From the first cocktail to the final dessert everything was delicious. I highly re...

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Superb88 Reviews4.6

Recently Opened Restaurants

El Rey Azteca Mexican Restaurant

124 S 2nd St, Knoxville, IA 50138

Out of all the Mexican Restaurants in the area, this one is the best. Excellent food and service, and it's always clean.

Superb25 Reviews4.4

Tequila Grill Iowa City

725 Mormon Trek Blvd, Iowa City, IA 52246

Tequila Grill is my new neighborhood hang out! I was so happy to see it open just off Mormon Trek. (Don't get me wrong, I loved Thai Spice... but I ...

Superb10 Reviews4.5

Renn's Café

1001 6th St, Nevada, IA 50201

I took my little cousin there with me to try it for the first time and I was not disappointed! Renn and the team were all very sweet and helpful, and did...

Superb6 Reviews5

Jersey Mike's Subs

4855 Asbury Rd Suite 1, Dubuque, IA 52002

Tables were all dirty. Staff were not wearing name badges. Online order was not made per ordered. Staff blatantly ignored customers picking up online ord...

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Superb12 Reviews4.8

El Jefe Authentic Mexican Cuisine

524 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA 50010

Holy Moly! The food was great, the atmosphere was beautiful, clean and love the seating. The waters actually ran back to the kitchen. We will for sure be...

Superb108 Reviews4.7

Jacks Place

6112 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315

We’ve never been disappointed with the food or service at Jacks! Tried the tenderloin today and it definitely lives up to the hype! Little breading, lot...

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Superb32 Reviews4.8

Urban Taproom and Grille

1511 N John Wayne Dr, Winterset, IA 50273

While visiting family we stopped in. Great background music and sound quality, delicious pizza and cheese curds, and friendly staff. Highly recommended!

Good49 Reviews4.1

Boondocks Emporium

130 E Main St, Anamosa, IA 52205

We had my daughter's graduation party at Boondocks. The atmosphere was great, something for everyone. Everyone commented on how great the food was a...

Superb18 Reviews4.8

Much Yummy

28 Central Ave NW, Le Mars, IA 51031

Don't waste your time and money. Sushi portions are a joke and I received my order hot. Not a fan of hot sushi. The sesame chicken and rice appear t...

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Superb31 Reviews4.3

Little Chicago Deli

413 Nebraska St, Sioux City, IA 51101

Very friendly, efficient service and great to have healthy food options downtown. The half sandwich was plenty of food for me and you get a LOT of meat s...

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Good16 Reviews3.6

McDonald's

5221 Competition Dr, Bettendorf, IA 52722

Nice McDonald’s just wish the drink machines were in the dining room. You have to ask at the counter.

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Superb4 Reviews5

Jimmy Franks LLC, DBA: Bad Ash BBQ

301 State St, Bellevue, IA 52031

We stopped by for the first time today and everything was amazing! The burnt ends were fabulous! The pulled pork and brisket was mouth watering. You real...

Superb15 Reviews4.9

Rileys Pub

104 N Riverview St, Bellevue, IA 52031

Poor0 Reviews0

McDonald's

2820 Grand Prairie Pkwy, Waukee, IA 50263

My experience was horrible once again, they can never remember to put sweet-and-sour sauce in there for my nuggets. I now once again, I have to eat dry n...

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Good41 Reviews3.4

Mexico de Mis Sabores

1800 NW 86th St, Clive, IA 50325

The best Mexican food I have eaten in these 2 years that I have been in this country, the workers are super friendly, the service is the best and the cle...

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Superb19 Reviews5

Recent Reviews

Denny's

4175 IA-21, Brooklyn, IA 52211

This is THE DIRTIEST DENNY'S RESTAURANT IN THE COUNTRY!...in fact, it is ONE OF THE DIRTIEST RESTAURANTS I'VE EVER SEEN!,,,From the moment I en...

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Good137 Reviews3.6

Gordies Bar & Grill

108 N 13th St, Centerville, IA 52544

Hostess/waitress went out of her way to be polite..courteous and professional! Food was excellent and very well priced. It was well worth the drive from ...

Good31 Reviews4

Jassie's Cafe

1905 Commercial St, Waterloo, IA 50702

we meet for breakfast every sat day morning about 7 of us hanna takes good care of us remembering a lot of what we order every week making it fun

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Superb49 Reviews4.9

The Mile Away

20270 Old Lincoln Hwy, Council Bluffs, IA 51503

Arrived 5 adults and had to crowd around a very small table. An hour after we placed the order, the wait staff approached and acknowledged our order was...

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Superb47 Reviews4.8

R Place of Masonville

505 Barrett St, Masonville, IA 50654

We love this place so much! The food is always so good and the staff is super friendly!

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Superb21 Reviews4.7

Mextizo

1140 Blairs Ferry Rd NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402

Love the atmosphere and service and the food is delicious! Great margaritas also! Check it out! The ceviche is the best I've had!

Superb110 Reviews4.7

Godfather's Pizza Express

110 S Market St, Solon, IA 52333

This raggedy ann white lookin mf wit the blonde curly Billy Ray Cyrus azz haircut got me f**ked up frfr. My baby momma been going here and he alwayz tryi...

Good8 Reviews4.2

The Buffalo Tavern

2016 S Main St, Burlington, IA 52601

The Buffalo is a local bar but it's also become a local place to go for some good grub. I had to check it out for myself. Hubby and I had a #datenig...

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Good63 Reviews4.2

Hayloft

102 U Ave, Grant, IA 50847

We enjoyed their monthly Saturday night buffet that featured all-you-can-eat fried Walleye; it was delicious. Service for the meal was great and staff ev...

Superb11 Reviews4.8

Red Fox BBQ

1900 Heritage Way, Waverly, IA 50677

First breakfast ordered ham and cheese omelet. Have not before had an omelet with crispy edges and not folded. Can there ever be too much cheese? Yes, co...

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Good29 Reviews4.2

The Old Stone Bistro

203 Main St, La Porte City, IA 50651

This placed just opened and it’s already pumping out some awesome, made-to-order food. Everything we’ve tried has exceeded expectations. The old stone bu...

Superb3 Reviews5

Tweeter's Bar & Grill

1027 U. S. Hwy 71, Okoboji, IA 51355

Based on the meal that we had on 8/15/24 I can not recommend this restaurant. It is a nice place and the wait staff did a good job. They were attentive, ...

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Average69 Reviews3.2

The Colorado Grill

1514 S Marshall St, Boone, IA 50036

AGAIN my wife ordered pick up and when i got home, ( Ogden ) the salad we paid for was not with the order. It happens too many times. TIRED OF GETTING RI...

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Good88 Reviews4.2

Stuart Scoop

117 NE 2nd St, Stuart, IA 50250

Wonderful home town atmosphere. Love the Ice Cream, especially "Birthday Cake". Pizza is awesome and the individual pizzas are filling. Love th...

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Superb43 Reviews4.8

Sunrise Cafe

908 W Main St, Le Grand, IA 50142

I have been a customer here for years. Always good value for a great price. Well tonight I ordered take out. A simple house chicken dinner. Since it is t...

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