Barry PhilipsIowa may be famous for its rolling cornfields and rich agricultural heritage, but it is also home to an impressive culinary scene. From award-winning steakhouses and cozy farm-to-table cafés to authentic Mexican restaurants, Italian bistros, barbecue joints, and seafood restaurants, Iowa offers delicious dining experiences for every taste and budget.
The state’s thriving farming industry provides restaurants with fresh beef, pork, vegetables, dairy products, and grains, making Iowa one of America’s best places for fresh, locally sourced meals.
Whether you’re visiting Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Iowa City, Sioux City, Ames, or Dubuque, you’ll discover restaurants serving everything from gourmet cuisine to comforting Midwestern classics.
This guide explores some of the best restaurants in Iowa while helping you choose the perfect dining destination.
Best Restaurants in Iowa
1. 801 Chophouse (Des Moines)
801 Chophouse is widely regarded as one of Iowa’s finest steak restaurants. Located in downtown Des Moines, it offers an upscale atmosphere perfect for anniversaries, business dinners, and special celebrations.
Their USDA Prime steaks are aged to perfection before being grilled exactly to each guest’s preference. Popular cuts include ribeye, filet mignon, New York strip, and porterhouse.
Seafood lovers can also enjoy fresh lobster tails, oysters, king crab legs, and Chilean sea bass flown in regularly.
Elegant décor, knowledgeable staff, and an extensive wine list elevate the dining experience even further.
Signature dishes include:
- Prime Ribeye
- Bone-in Filet
- Lobster Mac & Cheese
- Crab Cakes
- Creamed Spinach
Although expensive, many diners consider it one of the best luxury dining experiences in Iowa.
2. Zombie Burger + Drink Lab (Des Moines)
Zombie Burger has become one of Iowa’s most famous restaurants thanks to its creative horror-themed concept and massive gourmet burgers.
Each burger features imaginative toppings and unique names inspired by zombies, horror films, and pop culture.
Customer favorites include:
- Walking Ched
- Undead Elvis
- The Juan of the Dead
- Zombie Bride Wedding Cake Shake
Besides burgers, the restaurant serves loaded fries, vegetarian options, milkshakes, cocktails, and craft beer.
Its fun atmosphere makes it especially popular among tourists, families, and college students.
3. Breitbach’s Country Dining (Balltown)
Breitbach’s Country Dining holds the distinction of being Iowa’s oldest continuously operating restaurant.
Situated near the Mississippi River, it offers spectacular countryside views along with classic Midwestern comfort food.
The menu includes:
- Fried chicken
- Roast beef
- Homemade pies
- Mashed potatoes
- Biscuits and gravy
- Iowa pork chops
Everything is served in generous portions, giving visitors a true taste of Iowa hospitality.
The homemade pies are especially famous and worth saving room for dessert.
4. The Webster (Des Moines)
The Webster represents Iowa’s modern culinary movement.
Chef-driven and focused on seasonal ingredients, the restaurant changes its menu frequently based on what’s available from local farmers.
Popular dishes often include:
- Handmade pasta
- Duck breast
- Fresh seafood
- Seasonal vegetables
- Artisan desserts
The minimalist interior creates an elegant yet comfortable atmosphere suitable for date nights and celebrations.
Wine pairings and creative cocktails further enhance the dining experience.
5. Pullman Bar & Diner (Iowa City)
Pullman Bar & Diner combines classic American comfort food with gourmet creativity.
The restaurant is known for:
- Dry-aged burgers
- Fried chicken sandwiches
- Fresh salads
- Local craft beers
- Homemade desserts
Weekend brunch is especially popular among locals.
The restaurant also emphasizes sustainable sourcing and supports Iowa farmers whenever possible.
6. Hickory Park Restaurant Co. (Ames)
Hickory Park is one of Iowa’s most beloved family restaurants.
Famous for barbecue and enormous ice cream sundaes, it has served customers for decades.
Popular menu items include:
- Smoked ribs
- Pulled pork
- Beef brisket
- BBQ chicken
- Onion rings
- Giant sundaes
The restaurant’s affordable prices make it especially attractive to families and students from Iowa State University.
7. Cobble Hill Restaurant (Cedar Rapids)
Cobble Hill specializes in farm-to-table American cuisine.
Its chefs work closely with regional farmers to create seasonal menus showcasing Iowa’s agricultural abundance.
Highlights include:
- Grass-fed beef
- Fresh vegetables
- Handmade desserts
- House-made charcuterie
- Local cheeses
The rustic interior and exceptional service create a memorable fine dining experience.
8. Machine Shed Restaurant (Urbandale)
Machine Shed celebrates Iowa’s farming heritage through hearty portions and traditional comfort food.
Guests enjoy complimentary cinnamon rolls before meals.
Popular dishes include:
- Country fried steak
- Meatloaf
- Chicken fried chicken
- Roast turkey
- Pot roast
- Homemade pies
The farm-themed décor provides an authentic Iowa dining experience.
9. The Barrel House (Davenport)
The Barrel House offers elevated American comfort food with an impressive selection of local beers.
Menu favorites include:
- Burgers
- Fish tacos
- Wings
- Steaks
- Mac and cheese
- Flatbreads
Sports fans particularly enjoy the lively atmosphere during football and basketball seasons.
10. L.May Eatery (Dubuque)
L.May Eatery combines Italian, American, and Mediterranean influences into a creative menu.
Guests frequently order:
- Seafood pasta
- Gourmet pizzas
- Steaks
- Fresh seafood
- Risotto
- Homemade desserts
Its welcoming atmosphere appeals equally to couples and families.
11. Latin King Restaurant (Des Moines)
Latin King has been serving authentic Italian-American cuisine for generations.
Known for outstanding service and generous portions, signature dishes include:
- Chicken Spiedini
- Lasagna
- Veal Parmesan
- Fettuccine Alfredo
- Homemade Cannoli
It’s one of Des Moines’ most respected dining institutions.
12. Smokey D’s BBQ (Des Moines)
Smokey D’s BBQ has won numerous national barbecue championships.
Their award-winning meats include:
- Brisket
- Burnt ends
- Pulled pork
- Smoked turkey
- Baby back ribs
House-made sauces perfectly complement the slow-smoked meats.
It’s considered one of the Midwest’s premier barbecue destinations.
Why Iowa Has a Great Restaurant Scene
Several factors make Iowa one of the Midwest’s underrated food destinations:
- Fresh farm-to-table ingredients
- High-quality Iowa beef and pork
- Strong craft brewery culture
- Diverse international cuisine
- Affordable fine dining
- Friendly Midwestern hospitality
- Growing number of award-winning chefs
Many restaurants proudly source ingredients from nearby farms, ensuring exceptional freshness.
Best Restaurants by Cuisine
Best Steak Restaurants
- 801 Chophouse
- Iowa Chop House
- Rube’s Steakhouse
- Archie’s Waeside
These restaurants showcase Iowa’s famous premium beef.
Best Italian Restaurants
Italian cuisine lovers should consider:
- Latin King
- Baroncini
- L.May Eatery
- Christopher’s Restaurant
Each offers handmade pasta, fresh sauces, and traditional Italian hospitality.
Best BBQ Restaurants
Top barbecue choices include:
- Smokey D’s BBQ
- Hickory Park
- Jimmy Jack’s Rib Shack
- Up In Smoke BBQ
Expect authentic smoked meats and flavorful homemade sauces.
Best Seafood Restaurants
Despite being landlocked, Iowa has several excellent seafood restaurants serving fresh daily deliveries.
Favorites include:
- Waterfront Seafood Market
- Splash Seafood Bar & Grill
- 801 Chophouse
- L.May Eatery
Fresh oysters, lobster, salmon, shrimp, and crab are menu highlights.
Best Family-Friendly Restaurants
Families often choose:
- Hickory Park
- Machine Shed
- Zombie Burger
- Pizza Ranch
These restaurants offer kid-friendly menus and welcoming environments.
Best Fine Dining Restaurants
Luxury dining experiences include:
- The Webster
- 801 Chophouse
- Cobble Hill
- Proof Restaurant
These establishments are perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, and business dinners.
What Foods Should You Try in Iowa?
When visiting Iowa, don’t miss:
- Iowa pork tenderloin sandwich
- Prime Iowa steak
- Sweet corn (seasonal)
- Fried pork chops
- Homemade pies
- Cheese curds
- BBQ brisket
- Farm-fresh burgers
These dishes reflect Iowa’s agricultural excellence.
Dining Tips for Visitors
To enjoy the best restaurant experience in Iowa:
- Reserve tables for weekends.
- Visit local restaurants instead of chain eateries.
- Try seasonal farm-to-table specials.
- Sample Iowa craft beers.
- Leave room for homemade desserts.
- Explore restaurants beyond Des Moines.
Many hidden gems can be found in smaller Iowa towns.
Average Restaurant Prices in Iowa
| Restaurant Type | Average Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| Fast Food | $8–15 |
| Casual Dining | $15–30 |
| Family Restaurants | $20–35 |
| BBQ Restaurants | $20–40 |
| Fine Dining | $50–120 |
| Luxury Steakhouses | $70–150+ |
Best Cities in Iowa for Food Lovers
Food enthusiasts should prioritize visiting:
- Des Moines
- Iowa City
- Cedar Rapids
- Davenport
- Dubuque
- Ames
- Sioux City
Each city offers unique culinary experiences ranging from international cuisine to traditional Midwestern comfort food.
Comparison Table of the Best Restaurants in Iowa
| Restaurant | City | Cuisine | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 801 Chophouse | Des Moines | Steakhouse | Luxury Dining | $$$$ |
| Zombie Burger | Des Moines | Burgers | Families & Tourists | $$ |
| Breitbach’s Country Dining | Balltown | American | Comfort Food | $$ |
| The Webster | Des Moines | Contemporary American | Date Nights | $$$$ |
| Pullman Bar & Diner | Iowa City | American | Gourmet Burgers | $$$ |
| Hickory Park | Ames | BBQ | Families | $$ |
| Cobble Hill | Cedar Rapids | Farm-to-Table | Fine Dining | $$$$ |
| Machine Shed | Urbandale | American | Large Portions | $$ |
| The Barrel House | Davenport | American | Casual Dining | $$ |
| L.May Eatery | Dubuque | Italian-American | Special Occasions | $$$ |
| Latin King | Des Moines | Italian | Traditional Italian | $$$ |
| Smokey D’s BBQ | Des Moines | Barbecue | Smoked Meats | $$ |
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Conclusion
Iowa’s restaurant scene is far more diverse than many visitors expect. From luxurious steakhouses and innovative chef-driven establishments to iconic burger joints, championship barbecue restaurants, and historic family-owned diners, the Hawkeye State offers memorable dining experiences for every palate and budget.
Whether you’re craving a perfectly cooked Iowa steak at 801 Chophouse, an imaginative burger from Zombie Burger, authentic barbecue from Smokey D’s, or homemade comfort food at Breitbach’s Country Dining, you’ll discover restaurants that showcase the state’s exceptional agricultural heritage and warm hospitality.
As Iowa’s culinary landscape continues to evolve with new farm-to-table concepts, international flavors, and locally inspired menus, there’s never been a better time to explore its thriving food scene. No matter where your travels take you across the state, you’ll find outstanding restaurants that deliver fresh ingredients, generous portions, and the welcoming service that Iowa is known for.