Iowa’s food scene has always been a hidden gem for those in-the-know, but 2026’s James Beard Awards (in which a record five Iowa chefs and owners were nominated) has opened the door to far more palates, potential visitors and big city chefs looking to bring their talents to a place where their careers can actually grow, without the grind or pressure of a big-city market.
Ian Robertson, executive chef at Oak Park in Des Moines, can speak to that firsthand. The James Beard-nominated chef oversees the American fine dining farm-to-table favorite that’s a frequent stop for locals, tourists, celebrity chefs and culinary legends during stops in Des Moines. Having deployed his culinary talents across the globe, cooking in top kitchens in Europe and the biggest-of-big American cities and restaurant scenes, he’s earned the perspective to understand Iowa’s unique advantages.
You can just be exactly who you want to be – and it’s a blessing to be out here in this food scene,” Robertson said.
And for restaurateurs navigating tough times in the industry, lower operating costs and a deep sense of community are more important than ever…