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FoodBars & Nightlife

The Best Pork Tenderloin In The Midwest Can Be Found At This Unassuming Pub In Iowa

Lucky Pig Pub and Grill in Ogden, Iowa, is renowned for its massive pork tenderloin sandwiches and traditional midwestern cuisine.

Updated May 23, 2024

Written by 

Raymond Goldfield

Pork tenderloin sandwiches are one of Iowa's top food attractions. Pounded until they're almost impossibly flat and large, the massive sandwiches taste great and make for some amazing photos! In the small city of Ogden, Iowa, you'll find one of the state's best examples - along with a full menu of midwestern delicacies in a laid-back pub setting. Here's more on why you'll want to visit Lucky Pig Pub and Grill.

When you step inside The Lucky Pig Pub and Grill, it's like stepping back in time. Inside, you'll find great food and an old-school atmosphere that makes it one of Iowa's hidden gems.

A boy approaches the entrance of The Lucky Pig Pub & Grill, a brick building with a sign above.
Azona50036/TripAdvisor

The restaurant may only have been open since 2011, but its casual atmosphere and welcoming staff make it feel like an Ogden institution. The food has a traditional Iowa flair with a few modern twists.

Interior of a casual restaurant with tables, chairs, and a bar area, featuring warm colors and decorative elements.
The Lucky Pig/Facebook

Before you dig into the main attraction, why not start with a plate of the pub's signature wings? (With a beer to wash down that spicy sauce, of course!) Keep an eye out for their frequent special deals on this favorite appetizer.

A plate of glazed chicken wings with a glass of beer in the background.
The Lucky Pig Facebook

But we know what you're really here for - the restaurant's famous pork tenderloin sandwich. It lives up to the hype, with a crisp crust covering meat that's been tenderized and flattened. You'll want a knife and fork for this one!

A plate with two crispy fried chicken fillets, a side of coleslaw, and a piece of bread with lettuce.
Traveling Critic Chic/TripAdvisor

If that's not quite enough pork on your sandwich, The Lucky Pig has you covered. Porky's Revenge takes that same massive pork tenderloin and adds a heaping portion of barbecued pulled pork and crispy bacon.

A plate with a sandwich made of fried fish, served with a side of mixed vegetables and a small cup of sauce.
Chris F/TripAdvisor

The Lucky Pig offers much more than just pork tenderloin. Their dinner menu features tender prime rib that can compete with any local steakhouse.

A plate featuring a slice of prime rib, a baked potato with toppings, and a side of mixed vegetables.
The Lucky Pig/Facebook

The restaurant has also developed a strong reputation for its barbecue. Their smoky, flavorful ribs come with your choice of sides including sweet baked beans.

A platter featuring BBQ ribs, baked beans, seasoned potato wedges, coleslaw, and slices of bread.
The Lucky Pig/Facebook

The Lucky Pig is also known for its seasonal specials. Irish eyes are smiling every time March rolls around and the corned beef and cabbage returns to the menu.

A plate with corned beef, cabbage, carrots, red potatoes, and a slice of bread, served with a mustard sauce.
The Lucky Pig/Facebook

A meal at this Ogden favorite isn't complete without dessert, so don't miss out on a slice of their famous chocolate cream pie.

A chocolate pie topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, placed on a black serving tray.
The Lucky Pig/Facebook

Have you tried The Lucky Pig Pub and Grill's pork tenderloin sandwich or any of their other specialties? Let us know in the comments section. If your Iowa road trip is taking you through Ogden, make sure to visit the Lucky Pig Pub and Grill on Facebook to see what they've got cooking up.

Need a place to stay while you're exploring the area? Check out these unique vacation rentals in Ogden, Iowa.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/iowa/11-hole-in-the-wall-restaurants-ia/

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