Unique Eats Iowa

THIS ITEM IS AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER ONLY AND WILL BE RELEASED ON 15 SEPTEMBER 2026.

The People and Stories Behind the Food

Iowa restaurants will keep you wanting more. Dine often and enjoy dishes that the locals love to claim as the "best in the state." If you are hungry for a traditional Iowa tenderloin while exploring Iowa's Tenderloin Trail, Darrell's Place in Hamlin will serve up a winning meal. Iowans also love their steak houses and ice cream. In Mason City, patrons of Northwestern Steakhouse indulge in the special Greek seasoning that is showcased in their chicken, fish, and steak dishes. Houdini's Soda Fountain in Lake View offers specialty malts and shakes in an establishment named after the owner's English bulldog. If ice cream is not your thing, the Italian food scene runs through the state. Cosi Cucina, an award-winning Italian restaurant, serves up Ziti Cucina, a spicy pasta dish featuring Graziano's Italian sausage in Des Moines. Sample a variety of traditional Chinese food dishes across from the beautiful Franklin County Courthouse in Hampton at B & C Kitchen. For a taste of these and more, join food and travel writer Sara Broers on a tour of some of the best food and cuisine to sample in Iowa.