The tiny town of Anita is in the middle of nowhere, about halfway between Council Bluffs and Des Moines, and it doesn’t attract many tourists. But those who do visit might just find the best rural steakhouse in Iowa. The Redwood Steak House, open since 1947 and located in an old red barn, was nearly sold back in 2022 but is still operating under the current management – and those who visit this humble establishment get a big surprise when the meal starts. That’s because the Redwood Steak House is famous not just for its meats, but for the unique relish tray that opens the meal. This appetizer is unlike anything else at an Iowa restaurant – and it comes free with every meal at this old-school Anita institution.

The Redwood is located on a country road in Anita, far away from any other restaurant - but people come from miles around to enjoy its food.
Doc-Rocketman/TripAdvisor
If you've been in an old-school midwestern steakhouse before, this is a classic example. The atmosphere is classy, but casual, with traditional service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Doc-Rocketman/TripAdvisor
The specialty is meat, and lots of it. You'll be able to dig into affordable cuts ideal for filling up after a hard day's work.
FireHawk724/TripAdvisor
The beef is excellent, but the ham steak is also a favorite - smoky and sweet, just like the diner classic is supposed to be.
Joleene Naylor/Google Local

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No matter what your entree is, you'll want to order a side of The Redwood's perfectly-fried onion strings.
Firehawk724/TripAdvisor
However, many first-time visitors are shocked when they sit down - and the first course arrives before they order. Meet The Redwood's famous Relish Tray.
Brooke Long/Google Local
This is basically a midwestern charcuterie - a massive board featuring pickled vegetables, spiced apple rings, eggs, cheese, and sausage, plus some sauces for dipping.
Joleene Naylor/Google Local
Even the cracker basket it comes with shows attention to detail - you'll find a wide variety, instead of just standard saltines.
Joleene Naylor/Google Local

Have you visited the Redwood Steak House and tried its famous relish tray? Let us know about your visit to this rural steakhouse in Iowa in the comments section. The restaurant keeps a low profile online and has no website or Facebook page, but is currently open for dinner seven nights a week starting at 4:30 PM. If you’re looking for more out-of-the-way steakhouses in Iowa, check out this Sibley institution.

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Featured Addresses
Redwood Steak House, 1807 White Pole Rd, Anita, IA 50020, USA