I usually search out small family-owned restaurants rather than going to a chain, but there’s something unique about some local chains that has me coming home time and time again. These aren’t the mega-chains that can be found everywhere – they’re homegrown and keep expanding because of organic demand. One beloved local chain in Iowa is The Other Place, a casual sports bar and grill that began in Cedar Falls over 50 years ago. Known for delicious, low-cost pizza and an atmosphere filled with Hawkeye State sports pride, it turned into a chain with nine locations in Iowa – and now, three to the southwest in Kansas. Could a nationwide expansion be next? After a taste of the delicious grub at The Other Place, we bet you’ll be all for it!

The Other Place started in Cedar Falls over 50 years ago as a beloved local sports bar.
I E Xam/Google Local
The original location closed in 2021, but its legacy lives on in a big way.
Today, twelve locations of The Other Place dot the region - nine in Iowa and three in Kansas.
Raychel R/Google Local
Most are sleek modern places that maintain the original's old-school charm.
The Other Place is a laid-back sports bar and grill with a friendly atmosphere.
Raychel R/Google Local
You can expect to find hearty pub grub and plenty of beer selections.

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The specialty here is pizza, in just about every flavor you can imagine. You can feed an entire group here easily.
The Other Place on University/Facebook
For those who don't want pizza, this is a top spot for sandwiches. The burgers are great, but we're partial to the massive cheesesteak!
Ed Gruenwald/Google Local
Of course, it wouldn't be a classic Iowa bar and grill without a huge pork tenderloin sandwich on the menu!
Chris Holdman/Google Local
The walls are always filled with local Iowa sports memorabilia, and just about every Hawkeye State resident will find something to love here.
Bill Martin/Google Local

Have you visited The Other Place at one of its Iowa locations? Tell us what you liked at this popular local chain in Iowa in the comments section! You can find the full list of locations—or even visit them all on a road trip!—and the menu on the official The Other Place website. You can also follow the individual locations on their Facebook pages – we spotlighted The Other Place on University. While you’re in the area, did you know Cedar Falls is home to a unique Ninja Gym?

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Featured Addresses
Other Place, 4214 University Ave, Cedar Falls, IA 50613, USA