Iowa restaurants worth a one hour drive

We recently asked Iowa Road Trip followers this question: “Name an Iowa restaurant you would drive an hour to eat at.”  We received about 1,600 comments with your favorite restaurants that are worth the one hour drive.   

After reviewing all of the comments, we recorded the most frequently mentioned restaurants – and then organized them by geographic locations, and within each region the restaurants are in order based on the number of mentions they received.

Central Iowa Restaurants worth a one-hour drive

Central Iowa is defined as more than Des Moines –  we’ve included Ames, Marshalltown, Grinnell, and Boone, Pella in the Central Iowa category. 

Great Plains Sauce & Dough Company, Ames, Iowa

Old-school, wood-lined mainstay, open since 1979, baking pizzas with many different types of crust.
Address: 129 Main St #101, Ames, Iowa.
Website: https://www.greatplainspizza.com/

Whatcha Smokin BBQ, Luther, Iowa 

Texas style craft BBQ, served from pit to plate daily. 
Address: 403 Iowa Ave, Luther, IA 50152
Website: https://www.whatchasmokinbbq.com/

Machine Shed , Urbandale 

Easygoing farm-themed operation offering traditional American dishes & a full bar.
Address: 11151 Hickman Rd, Urbandale, Iowa
Website: https://machineshed.com/urbandale

Hickory Park, Ames  

Long-standing eatery serving up house-smoked barbecue in a spacious setting.
Address: 1404 S Duff Ave, Ames, Iowa
Website: http://www.hickoryparkbbq.com/

Big Steer, Altoona 

Supper-club-style steakhouse & bar serving corn-fed prime rib & seafood.
Address: 1715 Adventureland Dr, Altoona, Iowa
Website: https://thebigsteerrestaurant.com

Pagliai’s Pizza Grinnell  

Taco, crab rangoon, and shrimp alfredo are some of the pizza offerings
Address: 816 5th Ave, Grinnell, Iowa
Website: http://pagliaisgrinnellia.com

Flying Mango, Des Moines

Quirky hot spot with an open kitchen dishing up BBQ, Cajun & Caribbean fare plus a bar & live music.
Address: 4345 Hickman Rd, Des Moines, Iowa
Website:  https://www.flyingmango.com/

Cornbred BBQ, Ames 

Warehouse-style venue serving wood-fired BBQ & down-home sides, along with cocktails & draft beer.
Address: 526 Main St #106, Ames, Iowa
Website: https://cornbredbbq.com/#menus

Rusty Duck in Dexter, Iowa

Casual venue serving steaks and other comfort grub in a small-town setting.
Address: 723 Marshall St, Dexter, Iowa. 
Website: https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Rusty-Duck-100043468791908/

Goldies Ice Cream Shoppe in Prairie City, Iowa  

Humble roadside pit stop focusing on soft-serve ice cream & breaded pork tenderloin sandwiches.
Address: 304 W 2nd St, Prairie City, Iowa
Website: https://www.goldiesicecreamshoppe.com/

Flying Elbow, Marshalltown, Iowa

Burgers, mac ‘n’ cheese, and other grub served in a family-friendly restaurant with a wrestling theme.
Address: 229 N 13th St, Marshalltown, IA 50158
Website: https://flyingelbowfood.com/

Taylor Maid Rite, Marshalltown, Iowa

Serving signature ground-beef sandwiches, plus salads, sides & shakes.
Address: 106 S. 3rd Ave. Marshalltown, Iowa
Website: https://www.maidrite.com/

Rube’s Steakhouse & Lounge,  Montour, Iowa

Upscale steakhouse offering an array of cuts, a salad bar, and other hearty fare, plus cocktails and beer.
Address:  118 E Elm St, Montour, Iowa
Website: http://rubessteakhouse-montour.com

The Cafe in Ames, Iowa

Cafe featuring eclectic farm-to-table fare & a boutique bar.
Address: 2616 Northridge Pkwy, Ames, IA 50010
Website: https://thecafeames.com/

George’s Pizza & Steakhouse, Pella, Iowa

Casual restaurant serving pizza, Italian, and Greek eats, plus burgers, in a kid-friendly setting.
Address: 626 Franklin St, Pella, Iowa
Website: http://georgespizzapella.com

Simons , Des Moines, Iowa

Bistro & bar serving American & Italian classics, from steak to spaghetti & meatballs.
Address:5800 Franklin Ave, Des Moines, Iowa
Website: http://www.simonsdsm.com/

El Bait Shop in Des Moines, Iowa

Offbeat hot spot featuring myriad craft beers, creative Mexican-American eats & live music.
Address: 200 SW 2nd St, Des Moines, Iowa
Website: http://elbaitshop.com/

Rubes Steakhouse, Waukee

Casual steakhouse featuring a grill-your-own concept plus a salad bar, baked beans, and Texas toast.
Address: 3309 Ute Ave, Waukee, Iowa
Website: http://www.rubessteakhouse-waukee.com/

Northeast Iowa Restaurants worth a one-hour drive

Breitbach’s Country Dining in Balltown, Iowa.

Family-run, country-style tavern offering down-home American fare as well as buffets.
Address: 563 Balltown Rd, Sherrill, IA 52073
Website: http://breitbachscountrydining.com/

Ox Yoke Inn, Amana  

Hearty German & American food served family-style in a quaint, storied restaurant dating to 1940.
Address: 4420 220th Trail, Amana, Iowa
Website: http://www.oxyokeinn.com

That Place, Conrad, Iowa 

Family-friendly steakhouse featuring casual environs, old-school favorites, and prime rib specials.
Address: 33030 G Ave, Conrad, IA 50621
Website: https://www.facebook.com/pages/That-Place-Restaurant/779452435398904

Northwestern Steakhouse, Mason City, Iowa 

Greek-style & American steaks & other options in a quaint, longtime fixture with an upstairs lounge.
Address: 304 16th St NW, Mason City, Iowa
Website: http://www.northwesternsteakhouse.com/

Mabe’s Pizza in Decorah, Iowa 

Longtime family-run pizzeria turning out thin-crust pies in a laid-back, old-school atmosphere.
Address: 110 E Water St, Decorah, Iowa 
Website: http://www.mabespizza.com/

Gunder Roadhouse, Elgin, Iowa 

Casual tavern offering spirits & hearty Irish & American grub, including its namesake 1-lb. Burgers.
Address: 17455 Gunder Rd, Elgin, IA 52141
Website: https://www.facebook.com/GunderRoadhouse

Bluff Lake Catfish Farm. Maquoketa 

Picturesque seafood specialist offering catfish, steaks & all-you-can-eat specials with water views.
Address: 9301 95th Ave, Maquoketa, IA 52060
Website: http://blufflakecatfishfarm.com/

Highway 63 Diner,  Waterloo, Iowa 

Casual diner serving breakfast and steakhouse classics such as chicken pot pie, prime rib, and walleye.
Address: 3030 Marnie Ave, Waterloo, IA 50701
Website: http://highway63diner.com

The Brown Bottle in Waterloo, Iowa 

Family-owned Italian eatery showcasing Italian eats & myriad wines in a rustic, casual atmosphere.
Address: 209 W 5th St, Waterloo, IA
Website: https://www.brownbottlewaterloo.com/

L May  Eatery in Dubuque 

Classic American cuisine in upscale-casual environs with cocktails, wine or craft beer.
Address: 1072 Main St, Dubuque, Iowa
Website: http://www.lmayeatery.com/

Kula’s It’s Just Sauce, Walker, Iowa.  

BBQ, prime rib, and other comfort foods in a relaxed restaurant with catering available.
Address: 114 Greene St, Walker, IA 52352
Website: https://kulasitsjustsauce.com/

The Map Room, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 

Creative comfort fare & cocktails on offer in an upbeat gathering place with outdoor tables.
Address: 416 3rd St SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Website: http://www.maproomcr.com/

Brazen, Dubuque, Iowa 

Stylish eatery with an exposed-brick interior serving elevated New American fare & craft cocktails.
Address: 955 Washington St #101, Dubuque, IA 52001
Website:  http://www.brazenopenkitchen.com/

Pepper Sprout, Dubuque

Upscale bistro showcasing creative American fare & drinks in warm, brick-walled surroundings.
Address: 378 Main St, Dubuque, Iowa
Website: http://www.peppersprout.com/

Taco Tico in Mason City 

Fast-food restaurant doling out Mexican staples such as enchiladas, tacos & burritos.
Address: 2361 4th St SW, Mason City, Iowa 
Website:  https://www.facebook.com/tacoticomasoncityiowa/

Third Base Brewery in Cedar Rapids

Spacious spot for tavern eats & a changing list of house-brewed beers in casual environs with TVs.
Address: 500 Blairs Ferry Rd NE #2, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
Website: http://www.thirdbasebrew.com/

Rubaiyat Restaurant in Decorah

American bistro set in a circa-1890 building featuring modern, seasonal fare & a rotating wine list.
Address: 117 W Water St, Decorah, IA 52101
Website: http://www.rubaiyatrestaurant.com/

LaRana in Decorah, Iowa 

Bistro providing New American dishes, a wine list & a full bar in an unpretentious setting.
Address: 120 Washington St, Decorah, IA 52101
Website: http://laranadecorah.com/

The “Old” Rossville Store,  Rossville, Iowa

Casual American restaurant in a historic building serving up prime rib, broasted chicken, and other comfort food favorites.
Address: 851 Volney Rd, Waukon, IA 52172
Website: https://theoldrossvillestore.com/

Clayton Lighthouse, Clayton, Iowa 

Casual restaurant and bar serving comfort food and cocktails, with river views.
Address: 100 N Front St, Clayton, IA 52049
Website: https://www.claytonlighthouse.com/

Ronnenburg Restaurant in Amana, Iowa. 

Longtime spot for traditional German food in a warm, multiroom space lined with photos & local art.
Address: 4408 220th Trail, Amana, Iowa
Website: http://www.ronneburgrestaurant.com/

Mario’s Italian restaurant in Dubuque

Nostalgic eatery serving traditional Italian recipes including sandwiches, pizza & pasta.
Address: 1298 Main St, Dubuque, Iowa
Website: https://www.mariosdbq.com/

Northwest Iowa Restaurants worth a one-hour drive

Cattlemen’s Steakhouse, Sac City   

Local chophouse offering steaks, oysters, and cocktails in a cozy setting.
Address: 508 W Main St, Sac City, IA
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Cattlemens-Steakhouse-100158682173441/

Twisted Tail in Beebeetown, Iowa

Laid-back saloon with rustic decor offering beers & smoked meats, plus tractor pulls & other events.
Address: 2849 335th St, Logan, IA 51546
Website: http://www.twistedtailbbtown.com/

Darrell’s Place, Hamlin, Iowa 

American fare such as tenderloins and salad bar options served in a low-key atmosphere.
Address: 4010 1st St, Hamlin, IA
Website: http://www.darrellsplaceiowa.com/

Pickles Pub in Kamrar, Iowa 

Casual bar and grill dishing up fried pickles, pizza, and other comfort foods.
Address:425 Main St, Kamrar, IA
Website: https://www.pickles-pub.com/

Cafe Mir, Fertile

Specializes in modern, American farm-to-table cuisine. Wood-fired pizzas and breads
Address: 113 W Main St, Fertile, IA 
Website: https://facebook.com/cafemirfertile/

Fireside Steakhouse and Lounge, Anthon, Iowa

A variety of hand-cut steaks, homemade soup, and a salad bar round out the menu at this casual spot.
Address: 121 E Main St, Anthon, IA
Website: http://www.facebook.com/firesidesteakhouseandlounge

Unkies Entertainer Restaurant and Lounge, Thor, Iowa

American comfort food and alcoholic drinks served in a casual space that’s good for kids.
Address: 222 N Ann St, Thor, IA 
Website: https://www.facebook.com/unkiesthoriowa/

Archie’s Waeside in Le Mars, Iowa  

Family-owned chophouse serving traditional steak & seafood entrees in a low-key setting since 1949.
Address: 224 4th Ave NE, Le Mars, IA 
Website: http://www.archieswaeside.com/

Milk and Honey Restaurant in Harlan

Farmer-owned eatery using local ingredients for breakfast-to-dinner menus, plus cocktails and beer.
Address: 919 7th St, Harlan, IA 
Website: http://milkandhoneyiowa.com/

Pasquales Pizza, Humboldt

Casual venue offering comfort fare, including pizza, spaghetti, and a sausage sandwich.
Address:607 13th Street North, 1119 US-169, Humboldt, IA
Website: https://www.facebook.com/TheRealPasquales

Cliffs, Manning, Iowa. 

Small-town bar and grill offering steaks, sandwiches, and a salad bar in a comfortable setting.
Address: 417 Main St, Manning, IA
Website:  http://cliffsplacemanning.com/

Taqueria La Juanita in Sioux City, Iowa.

Burritos, tacos & chimichangas are popular choices at this no-frills Mexican joint.
Address: 1316 Pierce St, Sioux City, IA
Website: https://www.facebook.com/lajuanitasiouxcity?mibextid=ZbWKwL

Bobs Drive Inn, Le Mars

Fast food restaurant dishing up hot dogs, sandwiches, and other casual eats in old-school environment.
Address: 23 5th Ave SW, Le Mars, IA
Website: https://www.facebook.com/LeMarsBobsDriveInn/

Denison DQ, Denison, Iowa.  

Only someone who has eaten at this DQ would understand. No other DQ compares. 
Address: 1015 4th Ave S, Denison, IA
Website: https://denisondq.com/

Southwest Iowa Restaurants worth a one-hour drive

Primrose in Corning, Iowa 

Restaurant serving comfort food and farm-fresh options in a cozy atmosphere with a full bar.
Address: 619 Davis Ave, Corning, Iowa
Website: https://www.facebook.com/primrosecorning

Classic Cafe in Malvern, Iowa

American food and alcoholic beverages are served at this casual restaurant with counter and table service.
Address: 317 Main St, Malvern, Iowa
Website: http://www.classicafe-catering.com/

J. Bruners in Clarinda, Iowa 

Upscale steakhouse serving dinner and late-night bites in a relaxed setting with a fireplace.
Address: 117 N 15th St, Clarinda, Iowa
Website: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100061846307371

J’s Pizza & Steakhouse, Clarinda

Casual spot for pizza, steaks, and comfort food, plus happy hour and a kid-friendly menu.
Address: 108 E Washington St, Clarinda, IA
Website: http://www.jspizzaandsteakhouse.com/

The Redwood, Anita, Iowa

Cozy restaurant offering steak and seafood options, plus popular relish trays.
Address: 1807 White Pole Rd, Anita, IA 

Southeast Iowa Restaurants worth a one-hour drive

Bogies Steakhouse in Albia

Casual steakhouse serving up steaks and burgers, along with wine, beer, and a salad bar. NOTE: they are temporarily closed due to a fire – but are planning on coming back!
Address: 1425 S Clinton St, Albia, IA 
Website: http://www.bogiessteakhouse.com/

Jimmy Jack’s Rib Shack in Iowa City, Iowa 

Modest BBQ cafe with rustic decor & a menu of classic eats like sandwiches, ribs & smoked chicken.
Address: 1940 Lower Muscatine Rd, Iowa City, IA
Website: http://www.jimmyjacks.com/

Houston’s on Main, Milo, Iowa 

Steaks, burgers, pizza, and other comfort grub served in a cozy environment with a bar.
Address: 120 Main St, Milo, IA 
Website: https://www.facebook.com/houstonsonmain/

Canteen Lunch in the Alley, Ottumwa, Iowa  

Serving their classic loose-meat sandwiches in a tiny diner underneath a parking garage. 
Address: 112 2nd St E, Ottumwa, IA

AJ’s Saloon, Mt. Sterling, Iowa 

Casual bar and grill known for its jumbo tenderloin sandwiches, cold beer, and friendly service.
Address: 101 Elm St, Mt Sterling, IA
Website: https://www.facebook.com/ajssaloon/

Green Bay Bar and Grill in Wever, IA

Cozy establishment serving tacos and other comfort food, along with beer and cocktails.
Address: 3546 175th St, Wever, IA
Website: https://www.facebook.com/greenbaybarandgrill/

Mt Hamil Tap, Donnellson, IA 

Laid-back establishment offering tacos and chicken dinners, plus happy hour specials.
Address: 1467 155th Ave, Donnellson, IA 
Website: https://www.facebook.com/p/Mt-Hamill-Tap-100063476476704/

Lundardi’s Italian, Davenport, Iowa

Relaxed, family-owned Italian bar/eatery since 1989 with Chicago-style pizza & classic pasta dishes.
Address: 102 E Kimberly Rd, Davenport, IA 
Website: http://lunardis-qc.com/