Iowa has so many unique food choices to offer – pretty much anything you can imagine, actually! But sometimes, you just want to get back to the basics with some simple soul food. When you’re in that kind of mood, check out these 11 awesome diners in Iowa to get back to your roots:
1. Drake Diner, Des Moines
Since 1987, Drake Diner has been serving up good, old-fashioned breakfasts, lunches, and dinners to residents of the Des Moines area. Their biscuits and gravy are a must!
2. Pullmann Diner, Iowa City
Pullman Bar & Diner is like your favorite old diner, redesigned with a twist of modern luxury. They have all your favorite classics, and some delicious new items, too!
3. The Fort Diner, Fort Madison
The Fort is one of those great ma and pa places where you can go to get breakfast all day, and is the perfect spot to go for those Sunday brunches with the family.
4. Bluebird Diner, Iowa City
Bluebird Diner in Iowa City serves all your favorite Midwestern soul food in a fun, diner atmosphere.
5. Newton's Paradise Cafe, Waterloo
This sleek diner cafe in Waterloo serves up those classic breakfast and lunch dishes, with a unique twist. If you're there for lunch, check out their giant pork tenderloin, and make sure to split it with a friend.
6. Suzie-Q Cafe, Mason City
One of only 52 surviving Valentine style diners left in the U.S., this quaint little diner came to Mason City in 1948. The menu consists of good old fashioned diner food and an atmosphere that will take you back to the good old days.
7. Taylor's Maid-Rite Sandwich Shop, Marshalltown
Taylor's Maid-Rite has been serving its single sandwich menu to central Iowa for 80 years, and just like their menu, their classic diner feel still keeps to the good old days!
8. Dinky Diner, Decatur City
Dinky Diner is a great little place in Decatur City, with some great food. If you stop by for a bite, check out their Big One Burger, it's anything but dinky.
9. George The Chili King Drive In, Des Moines
George The Chili King Drive-In has been serving great food in Des Moines since 1952. They first opened as a diner and drive-in with carhop service, and that’s how they’ve remained all these years. Now, 61 years later, they are the only one left in the area!
10. Maid-Rite Shop , Cedar Falls
This charming little Maid Rite shop in Cedar Falls has that old-school feel to it with the vintage decor and traditional Iowa diner food like pies and maid rites!
11. Penny's Diner, Missouri Valley
Penny's Diner is one of the last diners in the area to maintain its true, old-fashioned roots. This is a great place to go for some classic diner food in an environment that reminds you of the good old days.
What are some of your favorite Iowa diners? Share them with us in the comments section below!
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