Posted in Iowa Dining August 13, 2021 by

The Barrel Is A Tiny, Old-School Drive-In That Might Be One Of The Best Kept Secrets In Iowa

When people think about Iowa, they probably don’t think about food, but maybe it’s time they did. Iowa is a small state with a big heart, and with big hearts come big appetites. Enter The Barrel, a legitimately old-school drive-in diner that easily blows modern drive-ins out of the water (or should we say parking lot?). This adorable old-school drive-in in Iowa will take you back to the good ol’ days, even if you weren’t even alive for them.

Barrel Drive In – West Union, IA/Facebook
It's no surprise that The Barrel has been around for an entire generation; it's just that good.
Barrel Drive In – West Union, IA/Facebook
And since one should never fix what isn't broken, the menu has remained relatively unchanged over the decades. Of course, you can't get a milkshake for .30 cents anymore, but much of the food selection is still the same.
It opened in 1966 and has been truckin' on ever since.
Barrel Drive In – West Union, IA/Facebook
It's one of the last remaining northeast Iowa drive-ins, and trust us when we say it's worth the drive from... well, wherever you're from.
Experience old-school service and flavors, including some local favorites, like this delicious dole whip:
Barrel Drive In – West Union, IA/Facebook
We can't think of a better way to spend an afternoon than with family at this awesome Iowa staple that goes sadly underrated outside of the state.
They're a hub for events, too, hosting car shows and more for decades now.
Barrel Drive In – West Union, IA/Facebook
Even folks with special dietary needs, like those who require gluten-friendly options, will find something to chow down on while they're here.
Cool down with a delectable milkshake, malt, or smoothie - the best ones are made with fresh peaches!
Barrel Drive In – West Union, IA/Facebook
Who says you can't have dessert first, anyway? We sure think it's fine.
The Barrel has been around for more than a half-century now, and we think that's pretty grand.
Barrel Drive In – West Union, IA/Facebook

At the time of this writing, The Barrel is open from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. They don’t have an official website, but they do have a Facebook page, where you can check for the latest deals, events, and goings-on to your heart’s content.

If you’re looking for times as good as the food, you can’t miss The Barrel. It’s definitely the top-tier old-school drive-in in Iowa that your grandpappy told you all about. Need more delicious Iowan food ideas? Check out this list for some inspiration.

Address: 204 IA-150, West Union, IA 52175, USA