The 15 best farm-to-table restaurants in Iowa, according to Yelp

Iowa’s local producers shine in these 15 farm-to-table restaurants, where foodies get full on the freshest flavors and more nutrients than are in typical fare.

Fresh food has fresh benefits, ranging from the best flavors to higher yields of nutrients. This makes the grub at farm-to-table restaurants something of a luxury, even when you’re not paying luxury prices for it. These benefits are also why so many restaurants are adopting farm-to-table practices—well, these in addition to the farm-to-table method being more sustainable and better for the local economy. Plus, it builds community and helps bring consumers and producers closer together. 

According to 2023 U.S. Census Bureau data, there are more than 6,400 individual restaurant locations across The Hawkeye State, and we’ve combed through the farm-to-table restaurants among them with help from Yelp to discern some of the best options statewide. From fresh and quick bites to more elaborate yet equally fresh dining experiences, here are 15 of the best farm-to-table restaurants in Iowa. 

1. Cheese Bar

Yelp Rating: 4.4

Address: 2925 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312

Price: $$

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Not to sound cheesy, but Cheese Bar may just be one of the best restaurants in Des Moines. If it’s cheesy, you can get it here, including delightful charcuterie boards, perfectly seared grilled cheeses, and oozy mac and cheese. Of course, there are plenty of wines and brews on hand here to pair with your cheesy finds, and there are non-cheesy menu items for those who don’t eat cheese (or those who want a more balanced meal). 

Folks on Yelp love everything Cheese Bar’s offering. “We ordered the Smorgasbord and it was delicious. It came with an assortment of local meats and cheeses in a beautiful display,” one reviewer shared after visiting, noting that they “can’t wait to visit again.” Worth noting, too, is that Cheese Bar also offers limited-time ice creams. At the time of writing, the flavor is Lemon Bar, and it sounds perfectly sunny—just in time to hold us over until summer!

Smoked chicken wings tossed in buffalo sauce sit nestled in a stainless-steel serving dish with greens crowning them. (Cheese Bar)

2. Pullman Bar & Diner

Yelp Rating: 4.4

Address: 17 S Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA 52240

Price: $$

Hours: Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 8 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sunday: 8 a.m.-9 p.m.

Pullman Bar & Diner is another one of Iowa’s farm-to-table restaurants that’s prioritizing quality for its customers and community. Here, local ingredients become the most satisfying diner fare you’ve maybe ever tasted, and that includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For brunch, you might consider the Breakfast Tacos or the Prince’s Hot Chili Chicken Sandwich, while the dinner menu immediately grips you with options like the lemony Risotto and the elegant Crispy Whole Fish.

On Yelp, folks all have their favorite dishes, but they agree that everything is swell at Pullman Bar & Diner. “Menu has something for everyone– my fav lately has been the Prince’s Hot Chili Chicken Sandwich. Cooked to perfection with just enough heat. *SWOON*,” wrote one reviewer, while another said, “Definitely one of the best burgers I’ve had in a while. The fries were killer as well.” Other visitors say they can’t wait to come back, making this a proper attraction in Iowa City. 

3. HomeGrown

Yelp Rating: 4.6 (Des Moines) & 4.3 (West Des Moines)

Address: ​​555 17th St Ste 102, Des Moines, IA 50309 & 950 Jordan Creek Pkwy, West Des Moines, IA 50266

Price: $$

Hours: 6:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

HomeGrown is a small chain of farm-to-table restaurants that has two locations in Iowa: one in Des Moines and one in West Des Moines, with both having the same operating hours. At HomeGrown, you can expect to find a seasonal menu that rotates as certain foods head in and out of peak freshness. At the time of writing, the seasonal menu includes the Winter Berry French Toast, the Roasted Beet Winter Salad, the Meatloaf & Grits, and more. Naturally, there are some year-round items, too, including omelets, Benedicts, and toasts. Just do us a favor and order the Cranberry Mimosa—you’ll thank us later.

There’s a common sentiment among HomeGrown’s Yelp reviews, and it’s that folks often go here with low to moderate expectations and leave wildly impressed. “Food was unique and delicious, especially their renowned sweet potato pancakes,” wrote one Des Moines reviewer who added, “ I had low expectations and they were some of the best pancakes I’ve ever had.” At the same time, a West Des Moines reviewer said, “The quality of their food along with unique flavors makes it one of my top breakfast places in all of DSM.” There you have it!

4. Big Grove Brewpub

Yelp Rating: 4.4

Address: 101 W Main St, Solon, IA 52333

Price: $$

Hours: Monday-Thursday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 

Big Grove Brewpub is part of a small chain of farm-to-table restaurants in Iowa, though the other three locations are called Big Grove Brewery & Taproom rather than Big Grove Brewpub. Still, regardless of the restaurant’s name, Big Grove Brewpub has a glowing Yelp rating, and it’s all thanks to the location’s food quality and service. On the menu, you’ll find bar staples like Parm Fries and Chicken Wings, but you’ll also find surprising items like the Coppa & Hot Honey Pizza and the Stir-Fry Noodle Bowl. There’s something here for everyone, and it’s all made with fresh, local ingredients.

On Yelp, reviewers report loving the Tater Tot Casserole and the Prime Rib Sandwich, among other hot entreés. Naturally, the drinks are great here, too. “The food is phenomenal and I can’t complain about the beer selection,” one reviewer shared. Another reviewer emphasized how amazing every aspect of Big Grove Brewpub is, writing, “This is a great local place. Really good food, the staff is exceptional and it’s comfortable. Keep it local!” Well-said!

A poke bowl featuring tofu, carrots, radish, cucumber, avocado, edamame, and more fills out a white bowl with a brown-and-black brim. (Big Grove Brewery)

5. Brazen Open Kitchen

Yelp Rating: 4.6

Address: 955 Washington St #101, Dubuque, IA 52001

Price: $$$

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 4:30 p.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Brazen Open Kitchen’s name is a self-fulfilling prophecy. This restaurant’s goal is to use the freshest local ingredients to prepare scratch-made food that leaves mouths satisfied, stomachs full, and smiles wide—and it does this in spades. In fact, Brazen Open Kitchen was a James Beard Award semifinalist in 2022. But what’s on the menu, you ask? Dive into Sweet Potato Soup, sink your teeth into house-made Bucatini featuring bleu cheese, and share Fried Chicken that’s perfectly crispy and accompanied with honey and cornbread. 

Farm-to-table restaurants get a bad rap for having small portions, but this doesn’t appear to be the case at Brazen Open Kitchen. Many Yelp reviewers note that they love the portions here, with many saying they had enough left for a second meal. As for what’s good here, well … everything! “It was a very lovely dinner. I really enjoyed my salmon and crème brûlée which was rich and full of flavor. My husband loved his fried chicken. Cocktails were well executed,” one reviewer shared after visiting. Many also say they received complimentary crème brûlée when they visited on their birthday or anniversary. 

6. Table 128

Yelp Rating: 4.3

Address: 220 SW 9th St #120, Des Moines, IA 50309

Price: $$

Hours: Tuesday-Thursday: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. & 5 p.m.-9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. & 5 p.m.-10 p.m.

Table 128 is the passion project of chef Lynn Pritchard, and it’s this passion that shines through in every dish that leaves the restaurant’s kitchen. The restaurant’s website describes Table 128 as “a destination for locals and travelers alike,” and it’s clear to see why. The vibe inside the restaurant is communal and effervescent, and the menu is refined without feeling closed off. For example, the Sweet Potato Curry and Lynn’s Burger are sure to appeal to broad swathes of diners, while the Beef Tenderloin and Lamb Shank might be more up the alley of seasoned fine diners. No matter what you get here, though, you can’t leave without taking a dozen of Table 128’s Chocolate Chip Cookies with you.

Yelp reviewers adore Table 128 for its food, service, and price point. “The is one of the best executed dining experiences at a less than tippy top price,” one reviewer wrote after raving about the restaurant’s steak tartare and salted caramel tart. Some reviewers even specifically point out that Table 128’s fries are some of the best, proving that this restaurant is the master of high-low eating. Ultimately, take it from this reviewer: “This was an experience. Each and every plate was obviously curated and prepared with the utmost consideration. Not only was every flavor profile on point, the plating was thoughtful and artistic.” Sounds like a dream come true to us!

7. The Webster

Yelp Rating: 4.5

Address: 202 N Linn St, Iowa City, IA 52245

Price: $$

Hours: Tuesday-Thursday: 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 5:30 p.m.-10 p.m.

The Webster is one of the farm-to-table restaurants that’s truly honoring the Midwest in everything it does. From sourcing Midwestern ingredients to preparing classic Midwestern dishes and more, The Webster is a restaurant of the people, for the people, and by the people. Of course, its dishes aren’t limited to flavors found natively in the Midwest, but its mission is rooted in supporting the area that houses this beautiful restaurant. Some of the menu items include Duck Egg Tagliatelle, Chicory Salad, Roasted Celery Root Soup, Roasted Autumn Frost Squash, and Roasted Monkfish. Like other farm-to-table restaurants, the menu here changes with the seasons, so you’ll want to check back from time to time to see what’s new.

The Webster evokes classy vibes, making it a perfect destination for any celebrating you need to do, whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, graduation, or just a date night. Yelp reviewers love the intimate atmosphere at The Webster, and when it comes to favorite dishes, one visitor wrote, “For the less adventurous, the duck egg tagliatelle is basically buttery cheesy pasta and there is a pretty good burger on the bar menu).” Another said, “The trout was very good and the sauce it was served with was delightful. I was craving scallops since it had been a minute so I ordered the scallops. They were cooked perfectly!” These sound delightful to us!

8. The Encounter Café

Yelp Rating: 4.5

Address: 376 S Clinton St, Iowa City, IA 52240

Price: $$

Hours: Monday-Saturday: 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

The Encounter Café is Iowa City’s premier farm-to-table restaurant when you need a fresh bite at an affordable price point (and without a long wait). Just note: While the restaurant closes at 2:30 p.m., the grill closes at 1 p.m., so hot food items aren’t available after that. That said, the menu is delicious-sounding, as well as full of local produce, dairy, and eggs, so you won’t want to miss your chance to try it. Here, you can grab one of The Encounter Café’s homemade breakfast sandwiches, hand-made pastries, toasty paninis, and even sizzling skillets. The smoothies here are also to die for!

Finding things to love at The Encounter Café is incredibly easy. Just look to Yelp, where folks have named countless items as their favorites. “The omelets here are the absolute best I’ve ever had and humongous,” one reviewer wrote. The drinks are noteworthy, too, with another reviewer saying, “Loved the pumpkin spice chai latte! The breakfast sandwich was good too.” Overall, you can’t go wrong here, so it’s worth a visit (or two).

9. Urban Eats

Yelp Rating: 4.7

Address: 804 6th Ave, DeWitt, IA 52742

Price: $$

Hours: Monday-Friday: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Saturday: 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Urban Eats has been serving DeWitt the freshest fare since 2017, but don’t worry if you haven’t been yet—it’s never too late to hit up one of the state’s best farm-to-table restaurants for grub that will leave you both full and feeling good. Here, you’ll find classic American lunchtime fare, including sandwiches and soups that hit all the right spots. The soups include White Chicken Chili, Chicken & Dumplings, and Crab & Clam Chowder, while the sandwiches include the Herbed Portobello, the Caprese Panini, and the Chicken Wrap.

In addition to providing fresh flavors that truly pop on the tongue, Urban Eats is beloved for its service. “Amazing food freshly made. Service is quick and well packed for to go meals. I always order a sandwich and one of the homemade soups,” one Yelp reviewer wrote. “Fabulous lunch spot! Lots of vegetarian options with farm to table food,” another said. Overall, the food at Urban Eats is perfect regardless of whether you only have a second to take food back to the office or have a few spare moments to indulge in it at the moment. It’s here for you no matter what. As one reviewer described it, the food here is “gourmet at a great price.”

10. Cobble Hill 

Yelp Rating: 4.6

Address: 219 2nd St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401

Price: $$$

Hours: Tuesday-Thursday: 4:30 p.m.-9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 4:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.

We haven’t forgotten about Cedar Rapids and its premier farm-to-table restaurants. Enter Cobble Hill, which specifically prioritizes using produce from “in and around Cedar Rapids,” according to the restaurant’s official website. Furthermore, Cobble Hill is a James Beard Award semifinalist, and it shows in its dishes, which, like those at other entries on this list, are often seasonal. Some items on the menu at the time of writing include the King Oyster Mushroom entreé, Salt & Pepper Sunchokes, and Sweet Potato Mochi for those who want a not-too-sweet dessert after their luscious, indulgent meal.

Cobble Hill’s high Yelp rating comes earnestly. The House Charcuterie Plate is a fan-favorite menu item if reviews are to be trusted, but that’s not saying much when everything is highly rated. “The food is the real standout. We had a savory Dutch baby with nduja and enough herbs to herald the end of summer, fantastic,” one reviewer wrote, later adding, “The Thai Tea tart was on the sweet side but it’s hard to fault dessert for that.” You didn’t hear it from us, but word on the Yelp streets is that custom drinks are also on the table. “We arrived early to enjoy a cocktail before dinner and the bartenders were delighted to prepare my favorite martini even though it wasn’t on the menu. It was fabulous,” another reviewer shared. We’ll cheers to that!

11. RōCA

Yelp Rating: 4.2

Address: 208 Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309

Price: $$

Hours: Monday-Thursday: 4 p.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 4 p.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 4:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

RōCA is another of Des Moines’ farm-to-table restaurants centering community in its mission and service, and it’s been doing so since 2014. Small plates reign supreme here, encouraging guests to order multiple items and share them. Who wouldn’t want to taste as many dishes as possible? As for what you might expect to taste here, RōCA’s menu includes Peri Peri Mussels, Steak Tacos, Pumpkin Carbonara, and Root Beer-Braised Pork Sliders. Don’t worry if you come extra hungry—there are full-sized entreés, too, including Blackened Mahi-Mahi, Berkwood Farm’s Pork Medallions, and Cajun Pasta. Soups, salads, and cheese and charcuterie boards round out the rest of the menu.

This restaurant is so fun because of the sharing aspect, and Yelp reviewers seem to love it, too. One reviewer said their group ordered a number of dishes and all tasted them, adding that “the Grilled Ribeye Skewers, Seared Scallops and Ribeye Nachos were my personal favorites.” Another wrote that “[t]he brussel sprouts and smashed potatoes were our favorites.” Some folks noted that they didn’t love how loud the restaurant was, but we’d imagine a lot of that noise was raving about the food!

12. Harbinger 

Yelp Rating: 4.6

Address: 2724 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312

Price: $$

Hours: Sunday-Thursday 4 p.m.-8 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 4 p.m.-9 p.m.

Des Moines is full of farm-to-table restaurants, and Harbinger is yet another one with a high Yelp rating that proves that fresh is always better. This James Beard Award semifinalist “is a vegetable-focused small plates concept,” per the restaurant’s website, and it uses the highest-quality and freshest ingredients to bring these plates to life. These menu items include Wild Maitake Mushroom brushed with miso butter, Duck Breast crusted with Iowa hazelnuts, and Dungeness Crab tartlets. In addition to individual menu items, guests can participate in a five-course tasting experience. 

Yelp reviewers appreciate both the regular dinner menu and the tasting experience. “Harbinger never disappoints! We came here for their tasting menu 3 months ago and it really impressed us,” wrote one reviewer who added, “We especially loved the Habanada Peppers, Marinated Scallops, & Korean Pear, and the Bulgogi Steak with Scallion Aioli Potatoes. Mouth-watering deliciousness!” Other reviewers take their claims further, saying, for example, that “[t]he sweet corn pasta … is the best dish I have had in Des Moines ever.” Talk about high marks!

13. Fresko

Yelp Rating: 4.1

Address: 909 Locust St Ste. 103, Des Moines, IA 50309

Price: $$

Hours: Monday-Thursday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday: 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Fresko’s name is, well, the name of the game. Everything at this farm-to-table restaurant is fresh, and this eatery uses local produce to make it all happen. The charm of Fresko is that while the dishes’ through-line is that they’re all fresh and natural, the actual scope of the menu is vast. From sushi and flatbreads to pasta, tacos, and sandwiches, there’s an item here for everyone. Here are a few of the most intriguing: the Harissa Chicken salad featuring fire-roasted red peppers and grilled pineapple, the Squash Cavatappi featuring broccolini pesto and asiago crumbs, and the Sensei Roll featuring tempura spicy tuna, sweet chili sauce, and so much more.

With such a big menu, it’s easy to wonder if Fresko has a lot of tricks but is a master of none. Fortunately, that doesn’t seem to be the case. “I started with the tuna tartare, which was fresh and flavorful. The fruit bowl, peppered kettle chips, and beet salad rounded out a beautiful spread,” wrote one Yelp reviewer who also loved the Pineapple Old Fashioned. Another favorite item is a brunch staple: “For my meal, I ordered the Paris Benedict. Rich and fresh tasting. Eggs were cooked perfectly and was delicious.” Ultimately, everything here is worth a shot, so don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. 

14. HoQ Restaurant

Yelp Rating: 4.1

Address: 303 E 5th St, Des Moines, IA 50309

Price: $$

Hours: Tuesday-Thursday: 5 p.m.-9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 5 p.m.-10 p.m.

HoQ Restaurant advertises that it uses “100% Iowa products” sans salt and pepper in its breakfast wraps, and if that’s something you can really appreciate, this farm-to-table restaurant is for you. Outside of the breakfast wraps, the restaurant estimates that approximately 90% of its ingredients originate on Iowan farms, with HoQ’s owners wanting to support farmers and provide their consumers with high-quality food at the same time. Because of this, the menu is constantly in flux, with dishes changing sometimes daily based on what the restaurant has on hand and what local farmers are producing. According to the restaurant’s website, current menu items include Bangladeshi Chicken on a Stick, Fried Green Tomatoes, Salmon Tartare, Grass-Fed Beef Burgers, and more.  

Fun fact: HoQ Restaurant pops up at Iowa farmers markets to sell its notorious breakfast wraps, but you don’t have to hit up the market to taste this delicious food. HoQ Restaurant is open five days a week, and Yelp reviewers are giving ample reasons why you need to try it. “I ordered the Mediterranean bowl with chicken and my fiancé got the lamb! Both dishes were amazing,” shared one reviewer after visiting. Another 5-star reviewer loved their food but left a warning: “Food was carefully and specially prepared just for you a slightly longer wait but only because it is actually being made for you.” Basically, just make sure you go to HoQ with time to spare so you can fully enjoy your experience. 

15. Alba

Yelp Rating: 4.1

Address: 524 E 6th St, Des Moines, IA 50309

Price: $$

Hours: Monday-Saturday: 4 p.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday: 4 p.m.-9 p.m.

When you hear the name Alba, you likely think of everyone’s favorite Sue Storm, Jessica Alba. However, Des Moines’ Alba restaurant is here to bring a new connotation to the name—one that’s synonymous with fresh and local ingredients, upscale dining experiences, and the euphoria that naturally comes with eating great food with even better people. Alba is the brainchild of chef-owner Jason Simon, and it’s his creativity that continues to push the envelope, with the menu constantly being refined and innovated. At the time of writing, the menu includes Deviled Eggs featuring beet tartar and a brioche crumble, Miso Butternut Squash Bisque, NY Strip Stroganoff, Tarragon Risotto, and more. 

Alba’s Yelp rating is sitting strong, and it’s because the restaurant has such ride-or-die fans. Just take it from this serial visitor: “This is an excellent restaurant, which is why it is ALWAYS busy, you get quality for your dollar.” They later added, “We ordered the Miso roasted butternut squash soup. It was perfection.” Reviewers also note that their steaks are always cooked exactly how they wanted them to be, which isn’t always the result you get at restaurants, no matter how upscale they are. Another reviewer loved a leafy green in particular, writing, “Amazing food. Brussels sprouts are by far the best I have ever had.” Ultimately, Alba is an experience you need to have at least once in your life, though we doubt you’ll only want to go once after that first bite.

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.