Every state has those special, tucked-away spots where locals gather, secretly hoping outsiders never find out about them—and Iowa is no exception.
Scattered across small towns and quiet backroads are restaurants so good that regulars guard them like family heirlooms. From hand-battered tenderloins to homemade pies that taste like pure nostalgia, these hidden gems define the true flavor of the Hawkeye State.
I’ve spent years tracking them down, one bite at a time, and now I’m ready to share a few of my favorite finds—just be warned, they might ruin both your diet and your taste for chain restaurants forever.
1. La Juanita — Storm Lake
Walking into La Juanita feels like stepping across the border without leaving Iowa. The aroma of fresh tortillas and sizzling carne asada hits you the moment you open the door, and suddenly you’re transported somewhere far more exciting than Storm Lake…