Nothing beats the comfort of homestyle fried chicken, that perfect crunch giving way to juicy meat seasoned just right. Across Iowa, some buffets still serve this classic dish the old-fashioned way, with recipes that could have come straight from grandma’s kitchen. These treasured eateries keep traditional cooking methods alive, offering that nostalgic flavor that takes you back to Sunday family dinners.
1. Pizza Ranch – Sioux City
Locals swear the secret’s in their buttermilk marinade! The chicken rests overnight before getting hand-dredged in a seasoned flour mixture that’s been perfected over decades.
Despite the pizza in their name, regulars know to load up on the golden-brown chicken pieces first. The skin shatters with each bite, revealing tender meat that practically falls off the bone.
2. Farmer’s Pick Buffet – Waterloo
Farm-to-table freshness elevates their fried chicken to legendary status. Each morning, kitchen staff prepare small batches throughout the day rather than cooking everything at once.
The chicken sports a distinctively craggy crust with hints of black pepper and herbs that’ll remind you of Sunday dinner at grandma’s house. Their commitment to using locally sourced chicken makes a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
3. Pullman Bar & Diner – Iowa City
Hidden gem alert! While not technically a traditional buffet, their family-style fried chicken service earned its rightful spot on this list…