These 8 Secret Restaurants In Iowa Are Well Worth Finding

Iowa’s dining scene is unique – we’ve got world famous restaurants, the Ice Cream capital of the world, a James Beard Steakhouse… and hundreds of tiny, hole in the walls that remain hometown favorites. If you’re trying to track down the best hidden Iowa restaurants, check out these best kept secrets that will be so worth driving to find.

Google Local / Joseph Wright Slegers

Google Local / Joshua Baker

The Hide Out is a rural restaurant way out in Paullina, Iowa. It's known for serving up gigantic portions of fries and the best fried chicken in O'Brien County.

Address: 4811 Oak Hill Ave, Paullina, IA 51046

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Facebook / Dam Bar and Grill

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Facebook / Dam Bar and Grill

This Howard County bar and grill serves up one of the best Philly Cheesesteaks you'll find outside of the City of Brotherly Love. Be sure to strike up a conversation at the bar - the crowd here is always up for telling great stories.

Address: 106 W Main St, Lime Springs, IA 52155

Facebook / Hale Tap

Facebook / Hale Tap

Hale Tap is a small supper club and grill where you'll find tasty tenderloins and excellent service. As part of Jones County, you can be sure you'll be welcome here, no matter where you're from.

Address: 5522 County Road E-45, Wyoming, IA 52362

Facebook / Wioa Steakhouse

Facebook / Wiota Steakhouse

Wiota is really in the middle of nowhere, even by Iowa standards. Still, it's worth the drive out to Cass County for a great steak and a cold beer.

Address: 302 Center St, Wiota, IA 50274

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Google Local / Robert Miller

Google Local / Roger Fischels

Wolfey's is a biker bar that's sort of a closely guarded secret. Don't be intimidated though - make it a point to head over here on a Tuesday for some of the best taco pizza you'll ever try.

Address:101 Water St S, Quasqueton, IA 52326

Google Local / Lorraine Gorman

Google Local / Jeff Felos

The Twisted Tail might be the prime rib capital of Iowa, and so few people have made it out here! Those who dine here make the trek regularly, even though it's way out near Omaha.

Address: 2849 335th St, Logan, IA 51546

Google Local / Larry Rogers

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Google Local / KD Mick

Northwestern Steakhouse isn't quite as much of a secret as some of these hidden Iowa restaurants, but it's still one of the most underrated gems in the state. Their greek style steaks are sure to win you over.

Address: 304 16th St NW, Mason City, IA 50401

Google Local / Wade Putnam

Facebook / Barney's Wadena

Barney's is another rural biker bar that serves up killer tacos - who knew that was such a niche in Iowa? Make your way out here for a great meal and unforgettable company, and you'll be sure to want to return again and again.

Address: 201 N Mill St, Wadena, IA 52169

Do you love any of these Iowa classics? Be sure to spread the word – support our local businesses and help you friends find the best kept secrets in the state! When you fall in love with a hidden Iowa restaurant, you’ll be amazed you didn’t make the trip sooner.