Advertisement

Iowa Food & Dining

This Jail In Iowa Is Actually A Restaurant And You Need To Visit

By Kim Magaraci | Published January 18, 2018

The charming and historic town of Dubuque is a favorite destination of many Iowans. There’s history, museums, restaurants and more all in one of the oldest cities in the state. One particular restaurant is hiding a unique secret – you can dine right in an old jail cell!

Vinny Vanucchi's is located at 180 Main St., Dubuque, IA 52001

This charming restaurant is set right in the heart of downtown Dubuque, which is one of the most historic towns in Iowa.

Advertisement

When you walk in, you'll be greeted with a warm environment that feels like a family gathering.

Advertisement

The high ceilings and old-world decor hardly let on that the restaurant is hiding a fascinating secret.

It used to be a jail, and you can dine in an old jail cell! They probably won't lock the door...

You'll be treated way better than the prisoners that dined here in the past, though...

... because Vinny Vanucchi's authentic Italian food is some of the best you'll find in the state.

Vinny's isn't the only place in Dubuque where you can have a jail cell experience.

Advertisement

After you've been "locked up" for your Italian dinner, head to the top of the hill for an overnight stay in the Jailhouse Inn.

There are so many unique restaurants like Vinny Vanucchi’s in Iowa – from one that was built in an old power plant (This Secluded Waterfront Restaurant In Iowa Is One Of The Most Magical Places You’ll Ever Eat) to the historic destination along Lincoln Highway (This Historic Iowa Restaurant Is One Of Lincoln Highway’s Best-Kept Secrets). Which is your favorite restaurant in the Hawkeye state?

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Featured Addresses

180 Main St., Dubuque, IA 52001