As a self-proclaimed steak enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of dining at some of the best steakhouses in Iowa. Each place I visited offered its unique flavor and atmosphere, making my culinary journey a memorable one.
From upscale dining experiences to cozy local gems, these steak havens provide all the indulgence one could desire. I can’t wait to share my favorites with you!
1. Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Des Moines, US
What to Expect
Ruth’s Chris Steak House is a premier destination for steak lovers located in West Des Moines.
Known for its upscale vibe and sizzling, butter-topped beef, this restaurant offers a fine dining experience that’s hard to beat.
What I Recommend to Order
You absolutely have to try the Tomahawk steak. It’s perfectly cooked and oh-so-tender!
The flavors are rich and the presentation will make you drool. Plus, their lobster mac and cheese is the ultimate sidekick!
What I Didn’t Like
One small hiccup was the occasional wait time for the food. But when it arrives, trust me, it’s worth every minute!
Overview
With attentive service and gorgeous decor, dining here feels special. The ambiance is elegant—a perfect backdrop for celebrations or a cozy dinner.
Whether it’s an anniversary or a casual meal, Ruth’s Chris never disappoints!
2. The Capital Grille, Des Moines, US
What to Expect
Welcome to 801 Chophouse, a premier destination for steak lovers in Des Moines.
The atmosphere is elegant, with a cozy yet upscale vibe that makes every occasion feel special.
Prepare for attentive service that will make you feel like royalty while you indulge in delicious dishes.
What I Recommend to Order
Don’t miss their ribeye steak—cooked to perfection with a juicy and flavorful profile that will leave you wanting more!
Pair it with the creme brulee for dessert; it’s a heavenly finale that’s simply the best I’ve ever had.
What I Didn’t Like
While the food and service are top-notch, it can get a little noisy, especially during peak hours.
Overview
Overall, 801 Chophouse shines with its exceptional culinary delights and a sophisticated atmosphere.
No matter if it’s a birthday celebration or just a night out, you won’t be disappointed!
3. Salt Lick, West Des Moines, US
What to Expect
Salt Lick is a contemporary gem in West Des Moines, serving up delightful American plates with a twist.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a casual dinner or a special occasion.
What truly stands out is their inviting patio seating; perfect for soaking up the sun while enjoying craft cocktails and global wines.
What I Recommend to Order
You’ve got to try the house special steak! It’s seasoned to perfection and grilled just right.
The flavors dance on your palate, and the portion sizes are generous, leaving you satisfied but not overstuffed.
What I Didn’t Like
Sometimes the service can be a bit slow if they’re busy, but hey, that gives you more time to enjoy your drinks, right?
The seating arrangement inside can feel a little cramped during peak hours, but the patio more than makes up for it.
Overview
With an excellent selection of craft cocktails, friendly staff, and delicious food, Salt Lick truly deserves a spot on your dining list.
Don’t just take my word for it; come hungry and experience the tasty offerings for yourself!
4. Osteria Marco, Des Moines, US
What to Expect
Osteria Marco is a charming Italian eatery in Urbandale, known for its rustic ambiance and vibrant atmosphere.
It’s an inviting spot that beautifully combines cozy decor with a lively culinary experience.
What I Recommend to Order
When you visit, you absolutely must try their renowned dry-aged steaks.
They are grilled to perfection, boasting a rich smoky flavor and a tender texture that melts in your mouth.
Their sides, like the sautéed seasonal vegetables, are delicious complements that add a fresh touch to your meal.
What I Didn’t Like
While everything was delightful, I did find the wait for a table a bit long during peak hours.
Maybe I was just too hungry to wait!
Overview
Osteria Marco truly stands out with its warm atmosphere and expertly crafted dishes.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this spot captures the essence of Italian dining with a local twist.
5. Cattleman’s Steakhouse, West Des Moines, US
A Warm Welcome at Cattleman’s Steakhouse
Cattleman’s Steakhouse is a high-end steakhouse chain that truly embraces the art of fine dining.
Located in West Des Moines, it boasts a cozy yet upscale atmosphere that’s perfect for celebrations or a romantic date night.
Why You Should Eat Here
The moment you step in, you’re greeted with a warm ambiance, attentive service, and a menu that emphasizes aged prime beef and classic seafood dishes like lobster tails.
What sets Cattleman’s apart is their dedication to personal service and creating a memorable dining experience.
What to Order
You absolutely must try the dry-aged ribeye. The flavor is rich and robust, with perfectly grilled edges that melt in your mouth!
The generous portion sizes make it a great choice for sharing, or if you’re feeling adventurous, take some leftovers home—if you can manage not to devour it all on the spot!
6. High Life Lounge, Des Moines, US
What to Expect
Welcome to the High Life Lounge, where nostalgia meets deliciousness! This quirky spot channels Midwest beer hall vibes from the 1960s, making you feel like you just stepped into a time capsule.
It’s cozy, lively, and filled with memorabilia that will have you reminiscing about days gone by.
What I Recommend to Order
If you visit, don’t miss the Brosted Chicken—it’s crispy and oh-so-flavorful! And try the bacon-wrapped tots; dipping them in syrup and ranch sounds wild, but trust me, it’s a party in your mouth!
What I Didn’t Like
Honestly, my only gripe was a sandwich that missed the mark—it arrived as a grilled cheese instead of ham and cheese. Talk about a sandwich identity crisis!
Overview
The High Life Lounge is a delightful combo of fantastic food and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that’ll have you coming back for more.
7. Texas Roadhouse, Cedar Rapids, US
What to Expect
Welcome to Texas Roadhouse in Cedar Rapids, a lively chain steakhouse that serves up American fare with a Southwestern twist!
The atmosphere is always buzzing, with Texas-themed decor to set the vibe.
What I Recommend to Order
You can’t go wrong with the 6pm sirloin paired with ribs and a baked sweet potato.
The sirloin is tender and while I found it slightly overcooked, it still hits the spot! And those ribs? Falling off the bone delicious!
Don’t forget to try the rattlesnake bites; they’re loaded with pepper jack cheese and jalapeños, a total crowd-pleaser.
What I Didn’t Like
It does get a bit loud and, at times, service can be a tad rushed. Just be ready for some noise when you visit!
Overview
Overall, Texas Roadhouse offers great food and friendly service that’s consistently satisfying. If you’re in the mood for hearty American cuisine, this is your spot!
8. The Big 4, Des Moines, US
What to Expect
The Big 4 in Des Moines offers an inviting atmosphere perfect for steak lovers.
It’s a classic steakhouse that combines a touch of elegance with a laid-back vibe.
You’ll feel right at home as you step inside with its warm lighting and rich wood accents.
What I Recommend to Order
You absolutely must try the signature ribeye; it’s cooked to perfection with a beautiful sear.
The flavors are rich and savory, and they serve it with a side of garlic mashed potatoes that are heavenly!
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later!
What I Didn’t Like
One minor thing I noticed is that it can get a bit packed on weekends. You might have to wait a bit for a table.
But hey, good things come to those who wait, right?
Overview
The Big 4 stands out for its classic steakhouse charm and attentive service.
Every meal feels like a true dining experience here!
9. Bistro at the Bowery, Decorah, US
Bistro at the Bowery Overview
Bistro at the Bowery in Decorah is the perfect blend of New American cuisine and an inviting atmosphere.
This charming eatery focuses on fresh, local ingredients, offering a delightful menu and a full bar that pairs seamlessly with its dishes.
What to Expect
Expect a warm, unpretentious setting where the food steals the show! You’ll feel right at home surrounded by friendly staff who genuinely care.
Why is it so popular? Perhaps because of their creative seasonal menu or their knack for showcasing local flavors!
What I Recommend to Order
You have to try the duck confit! It’s expertly cooked with a perfect crust and paired with grits that will leave you craving more.
Each bite is a heavenly experience; trust me, it’s a flavor combination you won’t forget!
While portions might be on the smaller side, the quality makes it worth it.
10. Tasty Tacos, Des Moines, US
Tasty Tacos: A Local Gem
Tasty Tacos is a beloved local counter-serve chain known for its homestyle Mexican fare.
Located in Des Moines, the charming atmosphere has a laid-back vibe that makes it ideal for taco lovers.
Why You Should Eat Here
The fast service keeps everyone happy, even during lunch rushes when the line snakes out the door!
And with no vegetables in the building, you’re in for an authentic taco experience—minus the salad part! I mean, who needs lettuce anyway?
Plus, the friendly staff makes sure you feel right at home while you enjoy your meal.
What to Order
You absolutely have to try the Original Flour Taco—it’s fluffy, flavorful, and downright delicious.
The hot sauce is a must, and I recommend snagging a bottle to take home. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
11. Jack Dusty, Iowa City, US
What to Expect
At Hatchet Jack’s, you’ll find an exciting environment that combines the thrill of axe throwing with a cozy bar vibe.
The staff? Super friendly and always ready to help you nail that perfect throw.
Expect a lively atmosphere filled with laughter and the occasional joyful clang of hatchets hitting targets!
What I Recommend to Order
While they don’t serve food, I highly recommend grabbing a local craft beer from their varied selection.
It’s the perfect pairing for pumping up your throwing skills. And hey, why not bring your own snacks for a little festive flair?
What I Didn’t Like
It can get a bit loud when the place is full, which might drown out friendly conversation.
Also, the wait can be long during peak hours, but it’s worth it for the fun!
Overview
Hatchet Jack’s is where fun meets skill-building in Iowa City. Whether you’re hurling axes competitively or just enjoying a drink with friends, you’ll love the good vibes and friendly competition.
This place is a fantastic escape for stress relief and casual hangouts, so don’t miss out on this adventure!
12. AJ’s Steakhouse, Marshalltown, US
What to Expect
AJ’s Steakhouse is nestled in the Prairie Meadows hotel & casino, offering a contemporary twist on classic steakhouse fare.
The atmosphere is elegant yet inviting, perfect for both casual dining and special occasions. You’ll really feel the charm!
What I Recommend to Order
You simply must try the prime rib; it’s cooked to perfection, tender enough to cut with a fork!
The French onion soup packs some spice, making it a different take that I absolutely loved.
And don’t miss out on their desserts – the pumpkin cheesecake is a delight!
What I Didn’t Like
On my visit, the stuffed mushrooms were a tad too cheesy for my taste, but if you’re a cheese lover, you might think otherwise!
Overview
AJ’s Steakhouse is a fantastic choice for a meal worth every penny. The attentive staff ensures you have an unforgettable dining experience. With an impressive wine selection and delightful cuisine, I’d say it’s a must-visit in Iowa!