This Unique Restaurant In Iowa Will Give You An Unforgettable Dining Experience
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 in Balltown is a tried and true favorite that has more than stood the test of time. In fact, Breitbach's is the oldest restaurant in Iowa.
Back in 1852, the establishment started serving food and drinks. 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. But not even a devastating fire could stop Breitbach's, and the restaurant has since been rebuilt and re-decorated 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. 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.
Just like Grandma's kitchen, Breitbach's makes everything fresh, and from scratch. 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. 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 - you'll get a true taste of Iowa history! And trust us, it tastes delicious.
Michaela is a born and raised Iowan. She writes for a newspaper by day, and writes content for websites by night. In her spare time, she enjoys reading a good book, or just binge watching Netflix.
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