Iowa Foods: 20+ Can’t Miss Culinary Adventures for Iowa Foodies

Iowa foods are some of the best in the Midwest. Join us on a tasty journey through Iowa’s unique flavors in our guide to can’t-miss culinary adventures for foodies in Iowa! 🚗🍴🌽

Quick Summary

Savor Iowa’s diverse and delicious culinary scene with our guide to the best food adventures in the state.

• 🍽️ Experience everything from traditional heartland dishes to innovative global cuisine.
• 🌟 Highlights include the Iowa State Fair, artisanal cider tasting, and unique supper club dining.
• 🍕 Don’t miss farm-to-table experiences, award-winning BBQ, and gourmet burgers.

Iowa Foods: 20+ Can’t Miss Culinary Adventures

Food is often at the heart of travel experiences. In Iowa, it’s no different. The state’s rich agricultural heritage, combined with its creative and innovative chefs, makes for a vibrant culinary scene. From traditional American heartland dishes to global cuisine, Iowa offers a smorgasbord of flavors and experiences. Here are Iowa’s best culinary adventures that foodies should not miss.

1: Dinner at the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates

Attend a conference or event to dine in the beautifully restored World Food Prize Hall of Laureates (100 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309) and learn about those who have made significant contributions to improve the quality, quantity, and availability of food.

2. Iowa State Fair Food

Indulge in the delightful and sometimes deep-fried concoctions at the Iowa State Fair (3000 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50317), including their iconic corn dogs and butter sculptures.

3: Cookout at Picket Fence Creamery

Join a farm-to-table cookout at Picket Fence Creamery (14583 S Ave, Woodward, IA 50276). Enjoy fresh produce, local meats, and of course, their delicious ice cream.

4: Bread Baking at the Dutch Oven Bakery

Take a bread baking class at this traditional bakery in Boone and learn to make your own delicious loaves. Van Hemert’s Dutch Over Bakery is located at 605 Story St, Boone, IA 50036.

5: Amana Colonies Food Tour

Join a food tour in the Amana Colonies and sample traditional German-American foods that have been made the same way for generations.

6: Candy Making at Chocolate Storybook

Join a candy making class at Chocolate Storybook (1000 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50265) and learn to make your own sweet treats.

7: Iowa’s Pizza Farms

Enjoy a slice of farm life by visiting one of Iowa’s pizza farms. They make delicious pizzas topped with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

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8: Steak Dinner at Archie’s Waeside

Treat yourself to a prime dry-aged steak at Archie’s Waeside (224 4th Ave NE, Le Mars, IA 51031), a James Beard American Classics award winner.

9: Get Happy at Barn Happy

Barn Happy (11310 University Ave, Cedar Falls, IA 50613) is a delightful restaurant in Cedar Falls, Iowa, that offers a charming and cozy dining experience in a restored historic barn. Known for its delicious homemade food, welcoming atmosphere, and selection of local products, Barn Happy is a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of authentic Iowa hospitality.

10: Ice Cream at Snookies Malt Shop

Cool off with a traditional malt or sundae at Snookies Malt Shop (1810 Beaver Ave, Des Moines, IA 50310), a Des Moines institution since 1986.

11: Delicious Comfort Food at The Chicken

Eating at The Chicken (4221 SE Orilla Rd A, West Des Moines, IA 50061) is a treat for those seeking delicious comfort food in a laid-back atmosphere. Known for their mouthwatering fried chicken, crispy fries, and a variety of homemade sides, this restaurant offers a satisfying dining experience. Whether you dine in or take your meal to go, The Chicken in West Des Moines, Iowa, is a go-to spot for satisfying your cravings with flavorful and hearty dishes.

12: Cider Tasting at Jefferson County Ciderworks

Try a flight of artisanal ciders made from Iowa-grown apples at Jefferson County Ciderworks. Visit the Cider House at 1949 Pleasant Plain Rd, Fairfield, IA 52556.

13: Iowa’s Finest Supper Club

In the Midwest, a supper club typically refers to a type of restaurant that offers a unique dining experience combining elements of fine dining, casual ambiance, and social gathering. These establishments are often family-owned and have been around for several decades, showcasing a sense of nostalgia. Supper clubs are known for their hearty comfort food, extensive menus featuring classic dishes like steaks, seafood, and prime rib, as well as signature cocktails and a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere. They are popular destinations for special occasions, celebrations, and enjoying a leisurely meal with family and friends.

Twin Springs Supper Club (2149 Twin Springs Rd, Decorah, IA 52101) is a beloved Iowa dining establishment that embodies the charm of a traditional supper club experience. This family-owned restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy delectable dishes like steaks, seafood, and classic comfort food. With its scenic location and reputation for exceptional service, Twin Springs Supper Club is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, providing a memorable dining experience in the heart of Iowa.

14: BBQ at Smokey D’s BBQ

Get your hands messy with some award-winning BBQ at Smokey D’s, a local favorite. Find them at 5055 NW 2nd St, Des Moines, IA 50313.

15: Farm-to-Table at HoQ Restaurant

Experience stylist, farm-to-table dining at HoQ Restaurant, where 90% of the ingredients are sourced locally from Iowa. HoQ Restaurant is located at 303 E 5th St, Des Moines, IA 50309.

16: Sushi Making at Miyabi 9

Sign up for a sushi-making class at Miyabi 9 (512 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309) and learn the art of sushi from a master.

17: Craft Beer at Toppling Goliath Brewing Co.

Sample some of Iowa’s best craft beers at Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. (1600 Prosperity Rd, Decorah, IA 52101), rated one of the best breweries in the world.

18: Historic Dinner at Breitbach’s Country Dining

Enjoy a meal at Iowa’s oldest food and drinking establishment, serving home-cooked meals since 1852. Breitbach’s Country Dining, family-run and oh-so-fun, offers casual down-home dining and buffets at 563 Balltown Rd, Sherrill, IA 52073.

19. Cheese Tasting at The Cheese Shop of Des Moines

Sample a variety of cheeses, both local and imported, at The Cheese Shop of Des Moines, located in the Shops at Roosevelt (833 42nd St Suite B, Des Moines, IA 50312).

20: Gourmet Burger at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab

Try a gourmet burger and a creative shake at this post-apocalyptic themed restaurant. Hip, humorous and horror-themed, Zombie is definitely quirky. Visit them at 300 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309.

21: Vegan Fare at Trumpet Blossom Cafe

Enjoy a delicious vegan meal at Trumpet Blossom Cafe, where even meat-eaters will love the menu. Cute and cozy, with carefully sourced ingredients, Trumpet Blossom Cafe (310 E Prentiss St, Iowa City, IA 52240) is one of our favorite places to dine in Iowa.

22: Coffee Cupping at Horizon Line Coffee

Participate in a coffee cupping (tasting) session at Horizon Line Coffee (1417 Walnut St B, Des Moines, IA 50309) and learn about the nuances of specialty coffee in this bright, industrial-chic cafe.

Conclusion: Iowa Foods for Travelers

These culinary adventures will satiate your appetite for good food and unique dining experiences. Enjoy the variety of flavors and culinary styles that make Iowa a food lover’s paradise.