When you think of Iowa foodie towns, the first places that come to mind are the cities. Des Moines is one of the best food cities in the country, and Dubuque’s historic restaurants make headlines around the Midwest. But, as we know, most Iowans live and dine in their small, rural towns. For years, Iowa’s small town restaurants have been proving to locals that their restaurants can be just as good as anywhere in the state, and one town in particular has been gaining traction as a Midwest Food Destination. That town is Le Mars, where you can find the best of Iowa’s dining all within a few blocks.
This tiny town in northwest Iowa was named “Ice Cream Capital of the World” over 20 years ago.
Flickr / Tim Wilson
The Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor & Museum is located in the heart of town…
Facebook / Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor
… and there are over 50 ice cream sculptures and statues throughout town.
Facebook / Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor
The Museum shows off the history of Blue Bunny, which has been a part of Le Mars life since it was founded in 1913.
Flickr / loonyhiker
The historic company now makes more ice cream in one location (Le Mars!) than any other single company in the world.
Flickr / Jody Halsted
But locals know that Le Mars offers so much more than just ice cream!
Facebook / Archie’s Waeside
Archie’s Waeside is an amazing steakhouse that has been impressing Iowans for decades, and in 2015, they were named one of “America’s Classics” by the prestigious James Beard Foundation.
Facebook / Archie’s Waeside
Since then, foodies from around the country have been flocking to this tiny town to try the famous dry-aged steaks.
Archies Waeside
Beyond the Ice Cream and Steaks, there’s more culinary history to be found. Bob’s Drive Inn was founded in 1949.
Trip Advisor / Iowasmalltownguy
Bob’s food is famous statewide, and people travel for miles to get their fix.The restaurant is famous for its dogs and “taverns”, or loose-meat hamburgers.
Trip Advisor / Kayelene L.
Throughout town, you’ll also stumble upon restaurants serving every type of food you can imagine, from Chinese Food at Bamboo to tasty burgers at Hugo’s. The whole town is a foodie dream come true.
Facebook / Le Mars Iowa
So, the next time you’re looking for a dining destination, head to the small town of Le Mars, where the best of Iowa’s dining scene is waiting to be discovered.
Facebook / Le Mars Chamber of Commerce
What town is your favorite foodie destination in Iowa? Most People Don’t Know These Small Towns In Iowa Have AMAZING Restaurants – so if you’re looking for a reason to get out and explore rural Iowa, those are the towns that will start off your culinary discovery in the Hawkeye State.
Flickr / Tim Wilson
Facebook / Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor
Flickr / loonyhiker
Flickr / Jody Halsted
Facebook / Archie’s Waeside
Archies Waeside
Trip Advisor / Iowasmalltownguy
Trip Advisor / Kayelene L.
Facebook / Le Mars Iowa
Facebook / Le Mars Chamber of Commerce
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