There’s No Restaurant In The World Like This One In Iowa
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dpaulson
Author
Iowa is full of hidden surprises, and its selection of restaurants is no exception. While there are several restaurants that I could choose to focus on, the Ladora Bank Bistro in Ladora, Iowa truly is one-of-a-kind, due to its unique history, beautiful architecture and incredible food. If you’re looking for a truly memorable dining experience, you really need to pay this place a visit.
Editor’s Note: Ladora Bank Bistro is permanently closed.
Opened in 1920, the bank is a stunning example of revival architecture. The building was designed by William Lightner and Charles Zalesky.
The bank closed in 1931, a casualty of the Depression, like so many other banks during that time.
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The building was never used as a bank again, but it has an interesting history, nonetheless. It has served as a meeting place for civic organizations, a flop house, a polling station and even a Red Cross office during World War II.
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Dimitri Makedonsky noticed the building in 2004, bought the building and spent four years renovating it. Finally, it became the Ladora Bank Bistro.
The bistro’s chef, Jim Vido, joined the team in 2014, and he and his wife, Holly, took over the business.
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The menu is an inventive mix of shared plates, including mouth-watering options like Moroccan Lamb Meatballs, Pork Belly Tacos, Sesame Tuna and much more.
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The bistro makes use of local food sources, like La Quercia Prosciutto made in Norwalk.
The beer selection features many local brews, like Turner Alley Czech Village Pilsner from Cedar Rapids, and Millstream Iowa Pale Ale from Amana.
Iowa’s culinary landscape is brimming with amazing restaurants. Check out these 10 Mom & Pop Restaurants In Iowa That Serve Home Cooked Meals To Die For.
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