A Restaurant for Every Month: 12 Bucket-List Worthy Spots in Iowa

One of the best ways to get to know a state is by visiting its most popular restaurants. But the best restaurants in Iowa aren't always the most obvious choices; some of them are hidden gems just waiting to be uncovered. If eating your way through Iowa this year sounds like something right up your alley, read on. We’ve pulled together 12 bucket list restaurants scattered around Iowa, one for each month of the year. If you are looking for some of the best restaurants in Iowa, we're pretty sure you'll find a few new favorites here. From scenic river towns to tucked-away rural gems, Iowa’s dining scene rewards travelers willing to explore beyond the obvious.

1. January – Breitbach’s Country Dining, Balltown

As Iowa's oldest bar and restaurant, a meal at Breitbach's isn't an experience you want to miss! You just can't beat the authentic rich history you'll find here. This country-style tavern offers an unmissable dinner buffet. Some of the most popular items here are the hand-battered cod and the homemade pie. You'll want to bring your appetite. Since the building is historic, accessibility may vary. Buffet offerings and hours can change seasonally.

2. February – Wasabi Waukee 

You might not associate Iowa with sushi, but we're here to tell you that Wasabi Waukee in West Des Moines is the real deal. The atmosphere, combined with fresh rolls, soups, and inventive dishes, makes this a fantastic option for a memorable meal out. If you're wondering what to order, the crispy orange chicken and rainbow roll are two of the most popular menu items. On weekends, dinner hours can be busy. Be sure to make reservations when visiting.

3. March – Twin Springs Supper Club 

Just minutes from downtown Decorah, Iowa, awaits a true culinary experience. The Twin Springs Supper Club sources locally to create the area's most fantastic steaks, chops, and seafood. Plus, the rolling hills and farmland are hard to beat. Located just outside Decorah, the drive itself is part of the experience, with rolling hills and a farmland setting the tone for a classic supper club meal.

4. April – Rastrelli's Italian Restaurant, Clinton

Italian is on the menu this month. Specifically, Rastrelli's. Pizza. Pasta. Cheesecake. Need we say more? If you're still not sold, we should tell you that Rastrelli's has been in business for over 85 years. If you're looking for something a bit different, try the Chicken Alfredo pizza, complete with Alfredo sauce, broccoli, and Mozzarella cheese. This spot is family-friendly and perfect for celebrations, too.

5. May – La Regia Taqueria, Iowa City

Cinco de Mayo calls for some Mexican cuisine, and we know just the place. Not only is La Regia Taqueria a Mexican restaurant serving up authentic, tasty dishes, but it's also a market where you can buy specialty items and ingredients for your own cocina.

6. June – Smokey's Lost Bar & Grill, Delhi

How about a meal on the beach to kick off summer? Yes, really. You CAN do that in Iowa. This summertime hangout has limited hours in the off-season, so be sure to check their hours before stopping by.

7. July – Barn Happy, Cedar Falls

Fit in a little shopping with your brunch or lunch meal at Barn Happy. This little deli is in a hundred-year-old barn, and there are some fun, unique gift items available here as well. In addition to the custom sandwiches, the homemade quiches are superb. Please note that this restaurant operates on seasonal hours and is closed from December to March.

8. August – The Tangled Wood, Bettendorf

Including its patio, this might just be Iowa's largest restaurant – a whopping 15,400 square feet. And just wait until you see the size of the meat platters! Between the brisket and the live music, there's a whole lot to love about this Iowa restaurant.

9. September – Bluff Lake Catfish Farm

Dine on fresh-caught fish while enjoying a view of a waterfall. Does it get better than this? The Bluff Lake Catfish Farm has limited winter hours; be sure to check for availability before swimming up for a bite to eat. Early fall offers comfortable temperatures for outdoor dining, but hours may vary as the season changes, so checking ahead is advised.

10. October – Baxa's Sutliff Store and Tavern, Lisbon

For a restaurant with a view, Baxa's can't be beaten! Dine overlooking the historic Sutliff Bridge while you enjoy classic offerings such as Mozzarella sticks, a jumbo tenderloin, or prime rib. Note: this spot only accepts cash, but there's an ATM on-site if needed. Fall foliage adds to the scenic views of the Sutliff Bridge, making October an especially appealing time to visit.

11. November – The Machine Shed, Davenport

Fill up on some of Iowa's best pork dishes at the Machine Shed in Davenport. You can eat pig for breakfast, lunch, and dinner here, but it's really the giant cinnamon rolls that shine here. Diners also love the farm-themed ambiance and friendly service. Portions are generous, making this a great stop when you’re craving classic Midwestern comfort food as temperatures cool.

12. December – Taylor's Maid-Rite, Marshalltown

December's a busy month, and fast food might be just what you need to make it through. Try a loose meat sandwich from Taylor's Maid-Rite in Marshalltown. It might just be the most iconic sandwich shop in Iowa, and that's really saying something. This no-frills stop is ideal for a quick, iconic Iowa meal during the busy holiday season.

There are some pretty unforgettable places to eat in Iowa, don't you think? From home-style cooking like your grandma would make to fine dining and critically acclaimed, award-winning restaurants in Iowa, each offers something unique. If you don't live nearby, start planning a road trip. And then be sure to share this article with someone you'd love to explore more of Iowa's culinary scene with!

Want to turn this list into a delicious road trip? Here is our Itinerary Planner, which you can use to perfectly map out your month-by-month dining adventure across Iowa.