Iowa’s dining scene is more diverse than you might think, offering a mix of international flavors, Midwest charm, and creative venues. Known for its farm-fresh ingredients and hearty American classics, the state also surprises with Algerian spices, Nepalese momos, and quirky eateries that turn every meal into an adventure.
Picture yourself savoring rich Algerian couscous at Baraka Café in Iowa City, biting into a juicy pork tenderloin sandwich at a small-town diner, or enjoying flavorful Nepalese dumplings at Kathmandu Restaurant in Des Moines. There’s even a retro café in a historic train depot and farm-to-table feasts that highlight Iowa’s agricultural roots.
In this guide, we’re diving into 19 unique restaurants across Iowa where the food and atmosphere promise to make your dining experience unforgettable. Let’s explore!
👉 Pro Tip: The Public Trolley Pub BYOB Tour in the Quad Cities is a blast! Bring your drinks, hop on the trolley, and check out cool local spots. It’s the perfect mix of fun, exploring, and good vibes with friends!
Unusual places to eat in IA
Ready to discover what Iowa has on its menu? We’ve got an array of hidden gems, from authentic global cuisines to classic American comforts. Join me as we explore the best places to eat in Iowa.
Craving traditional Algerian dishes or perhaps a taste of Nepal in the heart of the Midwest? Iowa surprises with its diverse dining scene. From the cozy Mi Patria Ecuadorian Restaurant to the innovative Brazen Open Kitchen, we’ve rounded up the most unique restaurants in IA.
1. Mi Patria Ecuadorian Restaurant
- 📍 Location: Des Moines
- 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Ecuadorian / South American
- 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic Ecuadorian cuisine, tropical fruit juices.
- 🎯 Perfect For: South American flavors, adventurous eaters, and a taste of Ecuador in the Midwest.
¡Hola, Des Moines! Get ready for a flavor fiesta at Mi Patria Ecuadorian Restaurant, where you’ll be transported straight to the vibrant streets of Ecuador. This place is an explosion of color and energy, with an atmosphere as warm as the equatorial sun. The air is fragrant with cilantro, cumin, and sweet plantains.
You absolutely have to try their incredible bandeja paisa (a hearty platter with grilled steak, chorizo, and more) or the classic ceviche de camarón. And don’t even think about skipping their amazing fresh tropical fruit juices – the passion fruit (maracuyá) is out of this world!
2. Harbinger
This stylish spot in Des Moines ups the ante on Midwest farm-to-table with a globally inspired twist. Harbinger‘s menu rotates often, but veggie-forward small plates are their calling card – I can’t stop thinking about the carrot dumplings swimming in fiery chili oil and the cult-favorite K.F.C (Korean Fried Chicken). The ambiance here is sleek with funky murals, intimate lighting, and a bustling open kitchen. It’s ideal for date night or catching up with friends over creative cocktails. Insiders will tell you to try the chef’s tasting menu – it’s a journey. After dinner, the lively bars of Ingersoll Avenue are just steps away. I still daydream about the explosion of flavors I had during my last visit.
3. Schera’s
- 📍 Location: Elkader
- 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Algerian / Mediterranean / American
- 🔥 Standout Features: Algerian-Mediterranean fusion, wine list, fresh, local ingredients.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Adventurous palates and exploring global cuisine.
Prepare for a culinary journey to the Mediterranean coast (by way of Elkader!) at Schera’s. This gem offers a unique fusion of Algerian and Mediterranean flavors, all served up in a charming, historic small-town setting. The aroma of exotic spices and grilling meats will captivate you.
You absolutely have to try their incredible tagines, slow-cooked to perfection, or their flavorful couscous dishes. Their Algerian lamb sausage is also a standout. It’s an unexpected and wonderfully sophisticated dining experience in the heart of Iowa.
4. The Flying Wienie
If you’re craving old-school American comfort food, The Flying Wienie in Cedar Rapids is a must. This quirky drive-in-style spot serves up Vienna beef hot dogs with all the classic Chicago toppings. You have to try the Maxwell Street Polish and crispy hand-cut fries loaded with cheese sauce – trust me, perfect road trip fuel. Inside, it channels retro diner vibes with aviation décor and a lively, no-frills attitude. Picnic tables outside make it feel like summer, even in cooler weather. It’s conveniently close to downtown’s historic Czech Village, making it a great pit stop before exploring. The nostalgia factor is real here – I could eat those dogs every weekend.
5. Ox Yoke Inn
- 📍 Location: Amana (Amana Colonies)
- 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: German / American / Family-Style
- 🔥 Standout Features: Traditional German recipes, family-style dining.
- 🎯 Perfect For: German comfort food, family meals, and experiencing the Amana Colonies.
Willkommen! Step back in time and savor the flavors of old-world Germany at the Ox Yoke Inn in the historic Amana Colonies. This beloved institution has been serving up traditional German recipes for generations, often family-style, in a charming, rustic setting. The air is filled with the comforting aroma of sauerkraut and roasting meats.
You absolutely must try their famous wiener schnitzel, crispy and golden, or their hearty sauerbraten. And don’t forget a side of their delicious German potato salad! It’s a true taste of Amana heritage.
6. Zanzibar’s Coffee Adventure
A Des Moines favorite for caffeine lovers, Zanzibar’s nails the cozy indie coffeehouse vibe. It’s all about the aromatic, fair-trade beans they roast in-house and the creative espresso drinks the baristas whip up. Their honey cinnamon latte is a top seller, but I usually go for the zesty iced Milky Way mocha. The walls pop with local art and the mismatched chairs invite you to linger. On weekends, the place buzzes with neighborhood regulars. Don’t miss the homemade muffins if you come hungry. Dogtown is a funky district to stroll around after, with record stores and murals galore. This spot makes me want to write a novel over a bottomless cup.
7. Breitbach’s Country Dining
- 📍 Location: Balltown (Near Dubuque)
- 💲 Price range: $15 – $25 per person (Buffet/Menu)
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Midwestern Comfort Food
- 🔥 Standout Features: Iowa’s oldest restaurant (family-owned since 1852!), Mississippi River views, home-style buffet.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Classic Midwestern comfort food and experiencing Iowa history.
Dine with a view that’s as incredible as the history at Breitbach’s Country Dining, Iowa’s oldest restaurant, family-owned and operated since 1852! Perched high on a bluff overlooking the majestic Mississippi River near Dubuque, this place is incredibly legendary.
They’re famous for their hearty, home-style cooking, often served as an amazing buffet. You gotta load up your plate with their crispy fried chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and all the classic Midwestern fixin’s. The view alone is worth the trip, but the food will keep you coming back.
8. Pullman Bar & Diner
Downtown Iowa City is full of gems, but Pullman Bar & Diner brings a polished twist to the all-day breakfast game. This modern diner serves legendary Pullman Hash loaded with chorizo, potatoes, and eggs, plus boozy milkshakes that taste like childhood gone wild. The railroad-inspired décor brings in deep booths, old train murals, and a long, inviting bar. Whether you’re brunching after a concert or grabbing a late-night bite, the upbeat playlists and clinking glasses make this a crowd-pleaser. It’s a quick stroll from the iconic Ped Mall and independent bookstores. Last time, the fried chicken and waffles were out of this world.
9. Graziano Brothers
- 📍 Location: Des Moines
- 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person (Deli/Sandwiches)
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Italian Deli / Sausages
- 🔥 Standout Features: Historic Italian grocery and deli (since 1912), homemade Italian sausages, deli sandwiches.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Italian deli purists, sausage fanatics, and authentic, old-school Italian subs.
Mangia, mangia! Get ready for an authentic taste of Italy at Graziano Brothers, a historic Italian grocery and deli in Des Moines that’s been a local institution since 1912! The moment you walk in, the incredible aroma of cured meats, aged cheeses, and their famous homemade Italian sausage will transport you.
You absolutely have to try one of their legendary Italian deli sandwiches, piled high with imported meats and cheeses, or grab some of their incredible homemade sausage to cook at home. It’s a true Des Moines treasure that’s bursting with old-world charm and flavor.
10. The Map Room
Burgers and global eats collide at The Map Room in Cedar Rapids, where the world traveler theme is nailed down to the table maps and wall flags. Their menu leans into juicy burgers with international twists – try the spicy Korean Seoul Mate or the tangy Morocco burger with goat cheese. Big, shareable sides and a killer craft beer list round it out. The exposed brick and soft Edison lighting add to the pubby, adventurous ambiance. If you’re in town for NewBo City Market shopping, this is an easy walk. I stayed longer than planned, swapping travel stories with strangers at the bar.
11. Kathmandu Restaurant
- 📍 Location: Des Moines
- 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Nepalese / Indian / Himalayan
- 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic Nepalese and Indian cuisine, flavorful curries and momos (dumplings).
- 🎯 Perfect For: Aromatic curries and dumplings, and ethnic dining.
Take your taste buds on an adventure to the Himalayas at Kathmandu Restaurant in Des Moines! This spot serves up authentic and incredibly flavorful Nepalese and Indian cuisine that will warm your soul. The air is fragrant with exotic spices like cardamom, turmeric, and ginger.
You gotta try their delicious momos (Nepalese dumplings), steamed or fried, or dive into one of their rich and aromatic curries, like the chicken tikka masala. It’s a fantastic place to explore the unique and vibrant culinary traditions of Nepal and India.
12. Lu’s Deli
Cedar Rapids locals know Lu’s Deli as the spot for satisfyingly hefty sandwiches and homemade soups. The standout here is the signature Lu’s Muffaletta, stacked with meats and that addictive olive tapenade. Daily soup specials, like creamy tomato basil or hearty chicken wild rice, are soul-warming. The interior is chill and welcoming, with chalkboard menus and cheerful staff. There’s a little patio if you want sunshine with your sandwich. Greene Square Park is right around the corner for a perfect picnic lunch. I always end up grabbing an extra cookie for the road – can’t resist.
13. Morg’s
- 📍 Location: Waterloo
- 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic American Diner / Loose Meat Sandwiches
- 🔥 Standout Features: Iowa-style “loose meat” or “tavern” sandwiches.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Classic diner lovers, simple comfort food, and budget-friendly meals.
Step back in time and get ready for an Iowa classic at Morg’s in Waterloo! This historic, no-frills diner is a beloved local institution, famous for serving up an iconic Iowa specialty: the loose meat sandwich (also known as a “tavern” or “Maid-Rite style”). Think seasoned ground beef piled high on a soft bun – it’s simple, it’s messy, and it’s utterly delicious.
The vintage counter and classic diner vibe will transport you. It’s a true taste of Midwestern comfort food and a must-try for anyone visiting the area.
14. Café d’Marie
Tucked in a charming Davenport house from the 19th century, Café d’Marie is the definition of a hidden gem. The European-inspired menu means decadent crepes both sweet and savory – their strawberry Nutella and the salmon Florentine are local favorites. Victorians details inside (ornate chandeliers, antique portraits, cozy alcoves) give it a romantic, tearoom vibe you won’t find anywhere else in Iowa. Come for brunch and snag a sunroom table, then stroll the peaceful Mississippi riverfront trails nearby. I felt completely transported by the ambiance, like stumbling into a French countryside daydream.
15. Brazen Open Kitchen | Bar
- 📍 Location: Dubuque
- 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern American / Farm-to-Table / Upscale Casual
- 🔥 Standout Features: Open kitchen concept, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, creative plated dishes.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Foodies seeking innovative flavors and upscale meals.
Get ready for a culinary show at Brazen Open Kitchen & Bar in Dubuque! This stylish spot features a bustling open kitchen where you can watch the chefs work their magic, crafting creative and beautifully plated modern American dishes. They have a strong focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, so the menu is always fresh and exciting.
Expect dishes like perfectly seared scallops with innovative accompaniments or a fantastic pork chop with a seasonal glaze. It’s a fantastic place for a sophisticated yet relaxed meal where the food is as exciting to watch being made as it is to eat.
16. La Juanita
- 📍 Location: Sioux City (also Storm Lake & others)
- 💲 Price range: $5 – $15 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Authentic Mexican / Taqueria
- 🔥 Standout Features: Flavorful street tacos, authentic Mexican vibe.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Taco fanatics, cheap eats, and experiencing true Mexican street food.
¡Vámonos! If you’re craving authentic, no-frills Mexican street food that’s bursting with flavor (and incredibly affordable!), you absolutely have to hit up La Juanita! This beloved taqueria, with locations in Sioux City and beyond, is a local legend for a reason. The air is thick with the scent of sizzling meats and warm tortillas.
You gotta taste their amazing street tacos – the al pastor and carne asada are out of this world – or a massive burrito packed with all your favorite fillings. La Juanita is fast, fresh, and fantastically good.
17. Machine Shed Restaurant
- 📍 Location: Urbandale (Des Moines area) & Davenport
- 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Midwestern Comfort Food / Farm-Themed
- 🔥 Standout Features: “Dedicated to the American Farmer” theme with rustic farm decor, hearty portions of classic Midwestern comfort food, giant cinnamon rolls.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Classic American comfort food and family meals that showcase Iowa’s agricultural heartland.
Roll up your sleeves and get ready for some serious down-on-the-farm deliciousness at Machine Shed Restaurant! With locations in Urbandale and Davenport, this place is a heartfelt tribute to the American farmer, with rustic decor, farm implements adorning the walls, and hearty portions of classic Midwestern comfort food.
Don’t miss their famous pot roast or the classic chicken fried chicken. And whatever you do, don’t leave without trying one of their legendary, gooey, plate-sized cinnamon rolls! It’s pure, unadulterated comfort.
18. The Black Angel
- 📍 Location: Iowa City
- 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per cocktail/small plate (Primarily a cocktail bar)
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Speakeasy Cocktail Bar / Small Bites
- 🔥 Standout Features: Hidden speakeasy vibe, mysterious entrance, classic cocktails.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Cocktail connoisseurs, high-end drinks, and upscale date nights.
Descend into a world of sophisticated sips and shadowy charm at The Black Angel in Iowa City. This isn’t your average bar; it’s a hidden speakeasy with a mysterious entrance and an intimate, moody atmosphere that will transport you to another era. The bartenders are true artists, crafting exquisite classic and signature cocktails with precision and flair.
Tell them your spirit of choice, and prepare to be amazed – perhaps with a perfectly balanced Vieux Carré or a unique house creation. It’s the perfect spot for a clandestine rendezvous or a truly exceptional drink.
19. The Great Plains Sauce & Dough Co.
- 📍 Location: Ames
- 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Pizza / Unique Crusts
- 🔥 Standout Features: Unique crust options (whole wheat, oatmeal, thick or thin), and a beloved, long-standing local favorite.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Pizza lovers and casual meals.
Get ready for a pizza experience unlike any other at The Great Plains Sauce & Dough Co. in Ames! This place is an absolute institution, legendary for its unique and incredibly delicious crust options – think thick or thin, white, whole wheat, or even their famous oatmeal crust! The aroma of baking dough and savory toppings fills the air.
You have to check out their pie with their oatmeal crust – it’s slightly sweet, wonderfully textured, and pairs amazingly with all sorts of toppings. From classic pepperoni to inventive specialty pizzas, it’s a true Ames original that’s been delighting pizza lovers for generations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the quirkiest restaurants in Iowa
Are you searching for more information about where to eat in Iowa? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about Iowa’s most unique restaurants.
What foods are famous in Iowa?
Corn and pork tenderloin sandwiches are two of the most famous foods in Iowa. Sweet corn in summer is unbeatable.
What is Iowa’s state dish?
Iowa’s state dish is the pork tenderloin sandwich. Imagine a piece of pork, pounded thin, breaded, and fried to perfection, then tucked into a bun. It’s simple, it’s delicious, and it screams Iowa.
What is a fun fact about Iowa?
Iowa produces more corn than any other state in the US. We’re talking about a lot of corn, enough to make it the king of corn country.
Which city is best for food in Iowa?
If you ask me, Des Moines has the best food in Iowa, making it a melting pot of culinary creativity. It offers everything from farm-to-table experiences to international cuisines, ensuring a delightful stay in Iowa.
