Iowa is full of small towns that are loaded with history, and the Villages of Van Buren County are the perfect example! Each of these little towns has a story to tell, and if you want to get up close with Hawkeye State history, visit the town of Bonaparte and dine at their repurposed, historic, grist mill restaurant.

Bonaparte, Iowa is one of the historic Villages of Van Buren County. The town was first settled in 1837 with the founding of Meek's Mill.
Flickr / Jody Halstead
Today, the original Meek's Mill has been repurposed as a restaurant featuring some of the most delicious dining in the area.
Google Local / Kristen K. Haines
When you walk in, you will enjoy the historic atmosphere and unique decor of the old mill interior.
Tripadvisor / JS and TS

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You will feel right at home here! The friendly staff and one-of-a-kind atmosphere make Bonaparte Retreat a family favorite.
Tripadvisor / Chris G.
Order up a homestyle meal, like a porkchop and potatoes, deep fried chicken, or a ribeye steak.
Tripadvisor / Hillsboor Traveler
Like any good Iowa restaurant, Bonaparte Retreat serves up a mighty fine tenderloin!
Tripadvisor / Chris G.
After your delicious lunch or dinner, take a stroll along the Des Moines River out back. The Mill offers some of the best views in town!
Tripadvisor / Farmerswife658

Visit the gorgeous Bonaparte Retreat for lunch or dinner and you’ll soon realize why this popular local landmark has a guestbook with signatures from all over the world! Learn more and see lunch and dinner menus on their website, right here.

Lunch Hours: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., seven days a week.
Dinner Hours: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Address: 713 1st Street, Bonaparte, IA, 52620

For more fun in Van Buren, read This Jaw-Dropping Rose Garden Is Hiding Within The Ruins Of An Old Iowa Mill.

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