11 Scrumptious Restaurants In Iowa You Never Knew Existed

3300 Johnson Ave NW, Cedar Rapids

Street tacos, tortas, made-from-scratch tamales, home made tortillas, super (super) spicy salsa by request, and a menu that will make lovers of Mexican food swoon....this humble and laid-back restaurant has some of the best food in eastern Iowa.

This local small-town favorite is famous for their natural casing weiners. Chili dog? This is one of the best places to get your hot dog fix in Iowa. Try their taverns, too. You won't be disappointed.

407 E 5th St., Des Moines

If you are into eating sustainably raised local products sourced from Iowa farmers, makers, and artisans as close to home as possible, then we've found your restaurant. The food is amazing, of course. Korean chicken, vegan Chorizo, braised pork, tomatillo habanero salsa, kimchi, vietnamese sandwiches, and a bacon parfait are just a few items on this huge menu of amazingness that will make you want to eat everything in sight.

9343 95th Ave., Maquoketa

All you can eat fried catfish? Yes, Please. Friday nights at Bluff Lake Catfish Farm are an all-you-can-eat event that starts at 4pm. This place is off the beaten path, but worth every extra mile you drive to get here. Prepare to wait for a table, or be happy eating outside. If you get stuck eating outside, you can enjoy the view of a 50-foot waterfall and Iowa's natural beauty. The food is so good that it's nearly constantly busy, here.

12612 Stone City Road, Anamosa

These folks know what to do with a tenderloin: Iowa Style. This is one of those places you have to go on purpose. It's near Anamosa, in the tiny town of Stone City. Their live music line-up is impressive, their bloody marys are amazing, and their view of the Wapsipinicon River from the deck is inspiring. Fans of the Iowa artist Grant Wood may recognize this pub from his painting, "Stone City, Iowa." Here's a pro tip: if you stop by during the winter months, go downstairs and grab a table by the giant fireplace.

Nestled in between Iowa and Illinois, in the Mississippi River, is the Iowan island of Sabula. Here, you'll find the most incredible wood-fired pizza joint. They use locally grown and fresh ingredients. The food is rustic and delicious. The decor is funky and fun. It's a must-see on your list of tucked-away Iowa restaurants.

1604 Hill Ave, Spirit Lake

122 S Iowa Ave, Washington

This Italian restaurant offers authentic cuisine from the owners; a native Iowan, Lorraine and her Italian husband, Alessandro. With an emphasis on fresh and local and a farm-to-table vibe, the food here is incredible. Combined with the beautiful atmosphere and excellent service, you'll have an unforgettable dining experience.

An incredible view of the Skunk River bridge, award winning tenderloin sandwiches, stacked grilled cheese, loaded fries, and a burger that's consistently one of the best in the state makes a trip out to this out-of-the-way restaurant worth every mile.

61 E Jefferson St, Winterset

Come for the food, stay for the menu descriptions. The ever-changing specials change with the times, as the "Trump Burger" proves that the owners of The Northside Cafe aren't afraid to tread into a politically charged arena where strong opinions and food collide. No matter your political affiliations, we think you'll agree that this little cafe has some amazing food.

1210 S Gilbert St, Iowa City