Dining Delights from Road Trip Iowa
Join Road Trip Iowa with a guide to local eateries highlighting the state’s diverse culinary scene. From farm-to-table delights and river-fresh fish to nostalgic diner fare and homemade comfort food, these spots attract both locals and travelers. Each establishment, with its unique charm and focus on local ingredients, showcases the rich traditions and flavors of Iowa.
Amish Country Store & Maid Rite Diner - Lamoni
The Amish Country Store and Maid-Rite Diner in Lamoni, Iowa, offer unique local flavors and traditions. Opened in 2009, the Amish Country Store features a diverse selection of homemade pies and handcrafted goods sourced from Amish craftsmen and women in the region. Adjacent to the store, the Maid-Rite Diner draws on Iowa nostalgia with its classic loose meat sandwiches and other staples like chicken and other comfort foods. This pairing attracts many tourists eager to experience authentic Iowa traditions and local craftsmanship.
Catfish Charlies - Dubuque
Catfish Charlie's, located along the Mississippi River in Dubuque, Iowa, offers a distinctive dining experience with its "river to table" concept. Open for 19 seasons, the restaurant sources various local fish, including walleye, catfish, bluegills and shrimp, harvesting between 9,000 and 15,000 pounds from the river each year. Known for its Southern-style cuisine and friendly atmosphere, Catfish Charlie's is celebrated for its flavorful dishes and hearty portions. The establishment also highlights local activities and novelties, making it a beloved spot for residents and visitors.
Niland’s Cafe - Colo
Niland’s Cafe, a road trip classic for over 100 years, is nestled at the intersection of two transcontinental highways in Colo, Iowa. Known for its comforting and convenient offerings, the Cafe serves a range of classic diner fare, including hot beef sandwiches, pork tenderloins, Philly cheesesteaks and cheeseburgers. The space retains its charming 50s/60s style, providing a nostalgic dining experience that perfectly complements its welcoming atmosphere and enduring appeal. Locals also flock to Niland’s for its reliable, filling meals and friendly service, making it a beloved staple in the community.
Milk & Honey - Harlan
Established in 2015 by Daniel and Ellen Walsh-Rosmann, Milk & Honey in Harlan, Iowa, offers a farm-to-table dining experience emphasizing locally sourced ingredients. The cafe features a diverse menu with farm-fresh eggs, produce and meat, catering to locals and visitors. The couple aims to draw people from nearby cities like Des Moines and Omaha while keeping the community’s dining dollars close to home. With its focus on fresh, seasonal fare and its role as a unique gem in a landscape of dwindling small-town restaurants, Milk & Honey has become a beloved spot for its exceptional quality and welcoming atmosphere.
The Lincoln Cafe - Belle Plaine
Near the small town of Belle Plaine, Iowa, The Lincoln Cafe has been a cherished spot for satisfying meals and late-night snacks for almost a century. Known for its homey atmosphere and classic American cuisine, the cafe specializes in homemade comfort food, offering dishes like burgers, sandwiches and daily specials that evoke a sense of fond memories. It attracts locals and travelers from the nearby highway, and despite several changes in ownership, it has maintained its unique charm. Many patrons come for the soothing, well-prepared food and to socialize and spend time with friends and family, making The Lincoln Cafe an integral part of the local community.
The Drake - Burlington, Iowa
The Drake in Burlington, Iowa, offers a distinctive dining experience with unmatched river views from its historic three-story brick building, formerly known as Drake Hardware. The restaurant's outdoor patio, which seats over 160 people, is famous for its vibrant atmosphere and lively environment. Renowned for smoking its meats and offering a diverse menu that includes pasta, seafood, pizza and more, The Drake is celebrated as the gem of small-town Burlington. Its combination of great food, scenic views and inviting ambiance attracts diners from near and far.
Stay tuned to Road Trip Iowa for more delectable destinations and dining adventures across the state. Season 2 begins April 2025.