10 Small Town Family Kitchens In Iowa That Serve Meals To Die For

Whether you want an award-winning place to eat or a true diamond in the rough, we have the answer.

Iowa has some amazing small-town restaurants.

1. Angelini’s Pizza

This amazing restaurant is in the southeastern town of Keokuk. Try their pasta and fish for a real treat. They also offer incredible steaks, pizza, and giant salads.

2. Ladora Bank Bistro

This converted bank building in the tiny town of Ladora serves European-inspired gourmet food. This historic location is beautifully restored and worth the drive!

3. Canteen Lunch in the Alley

The town of Ottumwa has one of the most unique restaurants in the state. This tiny place is a true hidden gem. The food is amazing, comforting, and it’s been pleasing crowds for decades. Their traditional loose meat sandwiches are the best!

4. Archie’s Waeside

Here in the tiny northwestern town of LeMars, is the James Beard award-winning Archie’s Waeside. Try their famous dry-aged steak for an out-of-this-world experience.

5. The Rusty Duck

The Bacon Blue Burger is a house favorite at The Rusty Duck in Dexter. Their portions are huge; watch out for the giant breaded pork tenderloin!

6. Blue Mountain Culinary Emporium

There’s more than enough to choose from here at Blue Mountain Culinary Emporium in beautiful Orange City. They have a smokehouse, globally inspired food, and traditional favorites like pizza and BBQ.

7. The Irish Shanti

Ah, the legendary Gunderburger. Whether you’ve heard the tales of this epic burger or not, tackling one for yourself is worth the trip to Elgin.

8. Teluwut Grille House & Pub

This little family-friendly restaurant in Osage is the perfect place to stop for a burger. This place is wildly popular locally, but they love visitors. Make it a road trip!

9. The Cider House

This Fairfield restaurant won Iowa’s Best Burger in 2015 and they haven’t lost momentum. This fun place to eat serves up some amazing hard cider, too.

10. Northwestern Steakhouse

Mason City has one of the best steakhouses in the state. Northwestern serves authentic Greek-style steaks and even if you have to wait for your table, your patience will pay off.

Please tell us about your favorite small-town family restaurant in Iowa!