Darrell's Place in tiny Hamlin is supposed to have the best tenderloin in the state and it is very good.
My vote for best tenderloin would be the Menlo cafe in Menlo.
Best hamburger... the Rusty Duck in Redfield.
Close. The Rusty Duck is in Dexter. Haven't tried yet but it's on my list.
If you like to Mabe's in Decorah or Cresco, try Philly's Finest in Waukee. It's like the parallel universe Mabe's. Same menu, same ambiance, same everything.
-Gabbys in Prole
-Pierson Chicken
-Archies in Le Mars
-Mexican in Merrill, don't even know the name but my favorite place to eat in the world.
-Miles in the Siouxer, charlie boys and a scooner
Here is a map I have put together of some small-town restaurants. I am unsure if I have the sharing set up correctly, let me know.
http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF&msa=0&msid= 215877198116408192295.0004aa3b3213842b4e59f
Second this. While not really a "small town", the Charlie Boy and Schooner is one of the best 1-2 punch combos in the state.
I made a map of places where I have eaten a tenderloin sandwich in Iowa,
Tenderloin Sandwiches - Google Maps
I made a map of places where I have eaten a tenderloin sandwich in Iowa,
Tenderloin Sandwiches - Google Maps
Never eat at an Amish place. Those people are filthy. (No need to be PC cuz I know none of them are reading this) They are notorious among inspectors.Dutch letters and the like from the Amish. That **** is the bees knees.
Tenderloins at Joensy's in Center Point. Can't remember if the one in Solon is as good.
Teluwat in Osage
Dutch letters and the like from the Amish. That **** is the bees knees.
I've wanted to go there for a long while now, but I never get up that way. My buddy vinny's parents own the place and he claims that the 'vinny burger' is second to none. He said the same about the bloody marys.I'm originally from the Osage area, and my old man is a big fan of this place. I'd have to agree. Not an incredibly unique menu, but damn good. Good bloody marys too.