8 classic roadside diners in Iowa that are worth a detour

Nothing says comfort food quite like a diner, and Iowa has some of the best. Here’s a list of diners in Iowa worth a visit. 

Sometimes when you’re on the road, the best thing you can do to feel at home is find some comfort food. For decades, roadside diners have been known to meet this need by providing classic American breakfast and lunch staples. We scoured the food blogs, Reddit forums, and Google reviews to find the best diners along the major interstates in Iowa. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best diners worthy of a detour.

1. Bluebird Diner – Iowa City

Located in downtown Iowa City, Bluebird Diner is a casual dining spot with a distinctly retro vibe. Not too far from I-80, this cafe is a great place to stop while on the road. The restaurant is open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Here you’ll find the usual diner fare, including burgers, salads, and sandwiches. Reviews mention that the Cinnamon Roll French Toast and Eggs Benedict are must-try breakfast offerings.

Address: 330 E Market St, Iowa City, IA 52245

Promising Review: “Bluebird Diner never misses! I had the Popeye Omelette—a dreamy combo of crimini mushrooms, tomatoes, spinach, and their signature house-made hollandaise. Every bite was rich, fresh, and perfectly balanced. And don’t even get me started on the cinnamon roll French toast—sweet, gooey, and just the right amount of indulgent. The retro vibe, friendly staff, and cozy atmosphere made the whole experience feel like a warm hug. This place is a gem in Iowa City. Can’t wait to come back!” – Grace P.

Must Try: Cinnamon Roll French Toast, Eggs Benedict

2. Drake Diner – Des Moines

Situated blocks from the Drake University campus, Drake Diner has been a Des Moines staple for decades. Here, students, locals, and travelers alike converge for delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu is extensive and includes vegetarian-friendly options. Particularly noteworthy are the homemade cake shakes and cinnamon rolls. Another favorite is the sweet potato fries. Be sure to order them with a side of pesto mayo for a unique and tasty twist.

Address: 1111 25th St, Des Moines, IA 50311

Promising Review: “The service was outstanding— fast, and attentive without being overbearing. Our server made great recommendations and made sure our coffee cups were never empty.

Now the food is absolutely delicious! I ordered the California Burger and everything was cooked to perfection…Try their cake shake!!!”

Portions were generous, and the prices were more than fair.” – Marilene B.

Must Try: Cake Shake, Cinnamon Roll, Sweet Potato Fries

3. Jimmy’s Pancake House – Bettendorf

Near the Iowa-Illinois border, and not too far from the World’s Largest Truck Stop, Jimmy’s Pancake House sees its fair share of travelers. Locals and visitors alike love the restaurant for its range of classic comfort foods and homey atmosphere. Reviewers recommend trying the chicken fried steak, sausage gravy, and, of course, the pancakes.

Address: 2521 18th St, Bettendorf, IA 52722

Promising Review: “The best food I have had in the Quad Cities, hands down. My husband found this place by chance, and we adored every. Single. Thing. My fries and chicken strips? Divine. The biscuits and gravy were the best I’ve ever had, and I typically am not a fan. The pancakes were better than my other previous pancake place in the QC. We will be back so much and so often. Take all our money, Jimmy’s.” – Gabbie S.

Must Try: Chicken Fried Steak, Sausage Gravy, Pancakes

4. Johnnie Mars Family Restaurant – Sioux City

This local spot offers a unique blend of classic American cuisine and Greek dishes, making it a great option for travelers looking to stop for a bite along I-29. The diner serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Tuesday through Sunday. Reviewers note the biscuits and gravy and prime rib sandwiches as being particularly good.

Address: 2401 5th St, Sioux City, IA 51101

Promising Review: “We were looking for a breakfast cafe on our way to The Falls in Sioux Falls, SD, and boy did we find one!! Johnnie Mars did not disappoint! Large omelette with sausage and cheese, and a side of perfectly cooked hash browns. Our waitress was very friendly … If we are ever in this area again, I am sure we will stop by again. Visit here and leave very full. Thanks Johnnie Mars!” – Joe V.

Must Try: Biscuits and Gravy, Prime Rib Sandwich

5. Legends Cafe – Council Bluffs

Located in Council Bluffs, and not too far from I-80 or I-29, Legends Cafe is another great place to stop for travelers passing through Iowa. This charming restaurant features a variety of breakfast and lunch options. Customers note that the cinnamon rolls, pecan rolls, and pancakes are particularly worth trying.

Address: 501 S Main St, Council Bluffs, IA 51503

Promising Review: “A hometown favorite. It may have changed names, but the food remains great, if not better. It’s a wonderful little cafe that hits every note and flavor that I imagine when I think of traditional American comfort food. I’ve yet to try anything that I haven’t liked. The food is always made to order and comes out hot and fresh. Their weekend specials, like their pecan roll or turnovers, are must-tries! No matter what you get, you’re not going to do yourself any injustices. The staff and entire atmosphere is kind and welcoming. One of those last small town diners that makes you feel right at home with quite literally a home-cooked meal. What’s even better is that their prices are more than reasonable, even by today’s standards! Definitely can’t recommend enough. Just be prepared to leave with a new notch on your belt.” – Dawson T.

Must Try: Cinnamon Rolls, Pancakes, Pecan Rolls

6. Lucky’s on 16th – Cedar Rapids

Open every day from 6 am to 10 pm, Lucky’s on 16th offers a range of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. This causal restaurant has a decidedly “cool” vibe with its distinctly retro vinyl decor. Many reviewers mention the restaurant’s delicious signature Bloody Marys in addition to its variety of mimosas. To eat, customers tend to recommend the pancakes or the Eggs Benedict.

Address: 86 16th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404

Promising Review: “I have eaten here over a dozen times. I have yet to have anything but spectacular service and amazing food. Luckys has become my favorite place to eat out. Great food, service, and drinks. I would recommend Luckys to anyone looking for a great place to eat with great staff and fantastic food.” – Richard R.

Must Try: Pancakes, Bloody Mary, Eggs Benedict

7. Morg’s Diner – Waterloo

A staple in the Cedar Valley, Morg’s Diner has been serving up delicious comfort food for more than 60 years.  The restaurant serves breakfast and lunch, offering a menu that includes classic diner fare, such as soups, sandwiches, burgers, and freshly baked pies. For breakfast, reviewers recommend trying the pancakes, omelettes, and hashbrowns.

Address: 520 Mulberry St, Waterloo, IA 50703

Promising Review: “Morg’s pancakes and bottomless cup of coffee are classics. The pancakes are light, fluffy, large, and delicious. My favorite breakfast place. Classic 50s Diner experience, complete with swivel stools at the counter and juke box music at the table. A nostalgic step back into a different world. Service is friendly, prompt, and efficient. Food is served hot with large, delicious portions.” – Debra S.

Must Try: Pancakes, Omelettes, Hashbrowns

Waveland Cafe- Des Moines

Another Des Moines classic, Waveland Cafe, has been around since 1984 and is a favorite amongst locals and visitors. This cafe claims to have “the best hashbrowns in the galaxy,” and reviewers tend to agree. Other favorites include biscuits and gravy and steak and eggs. If you are especially hungry, you can order Breakfast Momoa Style, named after the famous actor who reportedly visits this spot every time he’s in town. It includes a “full order of hashbrowns topped with a full order of biscuits, and gravy and 2 sunnyside up eggs with a side of bacon.”

Address: 4708 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311

Promising Review: “This place is always phenomenal. They’re usually packed, so we go during odd hours. We went around 12:30 pm today and grabbed some seats at the bar. Once you sit down service is pretty fast. My go-to is Steak and Eggs! Everything is always cooked exactly the way I ask. The hash browns are always super crispy! Today I got a biscuit instead of toast and ordered an extra side of the gravy. YUM!!! There was so much food, but I enjoyed every bite! I’ve only had breakfast food here. I’m sure their lunch dishes are just as good. Highly recommend!” – Melinda

Must Try: Hashbrowns, Biscuits and Gravy, Steak and Eggs

*Reviews have been edited for clarity and consistency.

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

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