It's such a treat when you go out for dinner and the food is really great. When the restaurant serving the wonderful food is beautiful, the evening becomes truly special. Here are just 10 of the many beautiful restaurants in Iowa that offer amazing views, a one-of-a-kind ambiance, and a dining experience that is simply unforgettable.
1. Table 128 Bistro and Bar, 12695 University Ave., Ste 140, Clive
Stop by and dine on fresh, seasonally-inspired food, enjoy fine wines and cocktails, and soak up the beautiful scenery. Dine inside or outside. Either way, the view is breathtaking.
2. Big Muddy's, 710 N. Front Street, Burlington
This iconic restaurant is housed in an original 1898 railroad freight house. It's nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River and is a two-time flood survivor. Their Sunday brunch is famous, as is their amazing view of the river.
3. PM Park, 15297 Raney Dr., Clear Lake
Stop by for a leisurely summer lunch or dinner, enjoy beach life, and consider taking on the Tiki Burger. It's two pounds of Iowa Angus beef, and if you can finish it in an hour, it's on the house. Rumor has it there's a tee-shirt and a photo on the wall of fame in it for you, too.
4. Bracco World Cafe & Beach Bar, 317 240th Ave., Arnolds Park
This locally owned family restaurant is hot stuff at Lake Okoboji. It's food is excellent, and the views beautiful, as well.
5. Orchard Green, 521 S Gilbert St., Iowa City
Unique American-Mediterranean cuisine is Orchard Green's claim to fame, but those who love this restaurant know that ambiance is their specialty. Cathedral ceilings hold multiple chandeliers. There's a cozy downstairs lounge where you can relax and unwind.
6. Iowa River Power Restaurant, 501 1st Ave., Coralville
On a beautiful night, if your timing is just right, you'll see the sunset over the river from the cantilevered patio at this famous destination restaurant. This is a turn of the century power plant with an amazing view of the Iowa River.
7. Santa Maria Vineyard & Winery, 218 W 6th St., Carroll
This historic building was converted into a winery and restaurant in 2005. Enjoy the outdoor courtyard or snuggle up by one of the fireplaces with a glass of wine and some delicious chef-made treats.
8. Steventon's Riverfront Food & Spirits, 1399 Eagle Ridge Rd., Le Claire
Sitting atop a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River at I-80 and the Iowa border, this wonderful Iowa restaurant has a menu centered around American classics and an elegant atmosphere that will inspire you to eat slowly.
9. Ladora Bank Bistro, 811 Pacific Street, Ladora
Ladora Bank Bistro is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of only a handful of "Jewel Box" banks still in existence. It opened in 2008, and serves small-plate meals meant to be shared with friends and family Tapas-style.
10. Cobble Hill, 219 2nd St. SE, Cedar Rapids
Inspired by their years spent in Brooklyn, the owners and chef of this restaurant in downtown Cedar Rapids carefully designed it to reflect their values: local products, dedication to craft and technique, and food with a story. Exposed brick, beautiful lighting, and James Beard award winning food will transport you.
Which restaurants in Iowa do you think are the most beautiful? Tell us about it in the comments.
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