When you’re looking to get a delicious bite to eat, served with a side of Iowa history, this unique restaurant is just the place for you! Breitbach’s Country Dining is the oldest bar in Iowa and is packed with local history and delicious, homestyle dishes.

Breitbach's Country Dining in Balltown is a tried-and-true local favorite that has more than stood the test of time.
SD Dirk/Flickr
In fact, Breitbach's is the oldest restaurant in Iowa.
Back in 1852, the establishment started serving food and drinks.
SD Dirk/Flickr
Ten years later, Jacob Breitbach, the great-great grandfather of the present owner, purchased the tavern from the previous owner. As of today, the restaurant has been in the family for six generations.
The original structure, which was destroyed by a fire in December of 2007, had been nominated to the National Register of Historic Buildings.
SD Dirk/Flickr
But not even a devastating fire could stop Breitbach's, and the restaurant has since been rebuilt and redecorated with turn-of-the-century furniture, magnificent handmade quilts, and country crafts.
Breitbach's history goes deeper than the building, though, and the visitors are worthy of a story all their own.
SD Dirk/Flickr
Over the years, Breitbach's has been visited by many famous (and infamous) people, including: notorious gangster Jesse James, George Wendt (Norm from Cheers), Brook Shields, and many politicians including Governor Branstad.

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But their story isn't the only thing that's legendary - their food is, too.
Yelp
Just like Grandma's kitchen, Breitbach's makes everything fresh, and from scratch.
Yelp
Delicious homemade soups, salads, and pies are prepared fresh daily by the owners and the staff.
Aside from their famous lunch and dinner buffet, a full menu is offered for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Complete dinners feature steaks, prime rib, chicken, and a variety of seafood entrees.
Yelp
There is also a full sandwich menu, and, of course, some pretty delicious Iowa tenderloins. Breitbach's even received the "American Classics" award, which is the highest award a restaurant can receive.
Breitbach's really is one of the most fun and unique restaurants in Iowa, and everyone who lives here should make it a point to visit it at least once.
SD Dirk/Flickr
At Breitbach's, you'll get a true taste of Iowa history! And trust us, it tastes delicious.

What are some of your favorite, unique restaurants in Iowa? Share them with us by nominating your favorite spots right here!

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oldest bar in Iowa

Kim Magaraci | March 02, 2021

What are the best hidden gem restaurants in Iowa?

Some of the best places to dine in Iowa are tucked away far off the beaten path. Butch's River Rock Cafe is one that's particularly hard to find, but you'll enjoy the adventure trying to track down their delicious tenderloin. In Maquoketa, Bluff Lake Catfish Farm offers the freshest fried catfish in the state, and offers a beautiful view of the lake from the dining room. Another hidden gem spot, AJ's Bar and Grill, is hidden in the impossibly small town of Mount Sterling - population, 22.

Where can I find the best pizza in Iowa?

If you're a pizza lover, there are a couple of spots you've got to try! The Airliner has been serving delicious pies for generations, and their time-tested recipe is sure to hit the spot. In Marshalltown, while everyone else is picking up Maid-Rites, head to Zeno's, a Main Street spot that's a local landmark. And if you want something truly unique, dine at Fong's Pizza in Des Moines. Their tropical drinks and internationally-inspired pizza options will blow your taste buds out of the water. Be sure to try a slice of their famous crab rangoon pizza.

Where can I go for fine dining in Iowa?

While Iowa is home to hundreds of steakhouses, a few stand out as truly elegant restaurants. Cobble Hill, in Cedar Rapids, is one spot that's always making lists of most scenic and romantic restaurants. In Des Moines, Splash Seafood Bar and Grill offers fine dining in a city known for its delicious culinary scene. Way out in Le Mars, a small town steakhouse earned a James Beard Award, and Archie's Waeside is a must-visit for anyone looking for an unforgettable meal.

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Featured Addresses
Breitbach's Country Dining, 563 Balltown Rd, Sherrill, IA 52073, USA