It's almost time to ring in the New Year, and if you're a foodie in the Hawkeye State, here's a fantastic Iowa dining bucket list to help you plan your year around the best meals you can find. Each of these famous restaurants has its place in Iowa lore, and you'll appreciate the history and love how each dining room spotlights Iowa's iconic cuisine.
1. Hamburg Inn No. 2, Iowa City
When the Hamburg Inn No. 2 opened in 1948, the owners could not have predicted tha more than 70 years later, it would be one of the most famous restaurants in the state. Enjoy breakfast at the 'Burg, stop by for lunch, or enjoy a dinner followed by their legendary pie shakes.
Read more about it right here.
2. Go Fish, Princeton
Go Fish is one of Iowa's most scenic restaurants. Enjoy a meal overlooking the beautiful Mississippi River from the tiny town of Princeton. You can drive up, or bring your boat!
Read more about it right here.
3. Bonaparte Retreat at Meek's Mill, Bonaparte
Bonaparte Retreat is located in a historic grist mill in the Villages of Van Buren County. They serve up homestyle Midwestern classics, like pork chops and tenderloins. Dining in this old Mill is like taking a step back in time.
Read more about it right here.
4. The Chicken, Orilla
The Chicken is an eggciting restaurant that Iowans have been flocking to ever since it opened. It's located right off of the Great Western Trail. Instead of staying cooped up at home, hit the trail and head here for a delicious meal.
Read more about it right here.
5. Saucy Focaccia, Cedar Rapids
Saucy Focaccia is a beautiful modern restaurant that's known for serving outrageously tasty burgers and loaded fries and tots. Their fry specials include pepper jack and bacon, chili cheese fries, tex-mex fries and more.Read more about it right here.
6. Alohana Hawaiian Grill, Ankeny
Alohana Hawaiian Grill is a taste of the tropics right here in the Midwest. Enjoy some of the most delicious Hawaiian dishes you can find stateside, all served with rice so you can mop up all of the flavorful sauces. Read more about it right here.
7. Bluff Lake Catfish Farm, Maquoketa
Bluff Lake Catfish Farm is the place to go for fried catfish in the Hawkeye State! This scenic fishing farm started off as a small stocked lake and soon blossomed into the famous restaurant that it is today.Read more about it right here.
8. St. Burch Tavern, Iowa City
Some of the best cheese curds in Iowa are served at St. Burch, thanks to Dan and Debbie's Creamery. You can't go wrong when you order a meal here, but their house specialty is the fish and chips. It's one of the best meals you'll have in 2020.Read more about it right here.
9. Americana, Des Moines
Head to Americana for brunch and you'll be so impressed! Their Bloody Mary bar is out-of-this-world, and you'll appreciate their take on classic brunch favorites as well.Read more about it right here.
10. Pullman, Iowa City
Pullman Diner is a railcar themed restaurant that serves up classic American comfort food. They make delicious biscuits and gravy and serve up hearty meals that are sure to please even the pickiest foodie.Read more about it right here.
11. Northwestern Steakhouse, Mason City
Northwestern Steakhouse is located on the outskirts of Mason City. This longstanding chophouse serves steaks Greek-style, which makes them stand out from the rest of the award-winning restaurants in the state. You'll love your meal here, and you'll feel like you've stepped back in time when you walk in.Read more about it right here.
12. Brazil Terra Grill, Des Moines
Brazil Terra Grill is a south American steakhouse that serves an endless selection of meats. Try as much of the beef, lamb, pork, and chicken as you want and you'll find yourself dreaming about this meal for weeks.Read more about it right here.
13. Unkie's, Thor
If you're looking for an amazing prime rib, head to Humboldt County and eat at Unkie's. This legendary dining room serves up the best prime rib in the state.Read more about it right here.
14. Three C's Diner, Corning
Three C's Diner is a small family owned restaurant that serves up one of the best tenderloins you'll ever try. Their BPT has won several awards over the years, and locals love it.Read more about it right here.
Where will you dine first in 2020? Tell us in the comments below!
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