These 4 Roadside Restaurants In Iowa Are Worth Stopping For

A long day of driving can be tiring - and that's even without the kids yelling "Are we there yet?" every few seconds! Nothing makes the drive worth it and gives you the fuel to get back on the road like a good meal. Fortunately, there are far better choices for filling up than the chains and fast food joints that dot the highway. These four spots will make you happy you pulled over.

Driving down the open Iowa road can be an incredibly peaceful experience - until your stomach starts grumbling. Here are four places you should stop.

La Regia Taqueria - Iowa City

This humble Highway 1 West storefront is known for some of the most authentic Mexican food in the Hawkeye State.

Heaping platters of tacos, rice and beans, and traditional garnishes are packed with flavor. Don't miss the acclaimed al pastor tacos!

Highway 63 Diner - Waterloo

Late dinners can be hard to find, but this traditional diner and steakhouse off Highway 63 is open till 10 most nights and is a welcome sight.

A full diner menu is available, but all the locals will tell you to go for their signature broasted chicken.

The Highway Restaurant - Albia

Located in the tiny town of Albia off Highway 34, this small diner is a lifesaver on long drives - and their fare is packed with flavor.

If you're here early, make sure to dig into their loaded breakfast plates. Don't miss the crispy corned beef hash.

Edith Lucielle's Bait Shack and Wing Depot - Cedar Rapids

This quirky bar and grill is located only minutes from Highway 151, and is the perfect finish to a long day of driving.

The raucous pub atmosphere is combined with excellent food - including house-smoked pulled pork in a sweet-and-spicy sauce.

Grab a seat at the full bar, listen to some live music, and take in the one-of-a-kind scene.

Have you visited any of these roadside restaurants? Do you have a must-stop restaurant along the Iowa roads that you never miss? Let us know in the comments section. All these restaurants are open at regular hours, but Edith Lucielle's frequently has special events and concerts going on. Make sure to visit their website to see what they've got planned for your next visit.