Iowa cuisine tempts the palate

The interior of Zins includes a chef's table which has a window that looks into the kitchen as well as several private dining tables.

Iowa.com

Everyone knows you can get one mean pork chop in Iowa. But did you know you can also find authentic handmade tamales, hand-rolled sushi and spicy vegetable curries here? It's true; Iowa has a taste for every palate -- and every budget.

State specialties are good place to start. Breaded pork tenderloin sandwiches are served in bars, grills and diners in just about every town in the state. Maid-Rite loose-meat sandwiches are a longtime favorite. And with its corn dogs, pork-chops-on-a-stick and turkey drumsticks, the Iowa State Fair is a must-stop dining destination each summer.

Learn about Iowa's German heritage with family-style dining in the Amana Colonies, enjoy our Dutch roots with pastries in Pella, or try specialties from the state's fastest growing ethnic group, Hispanics, at cafes across the state.

Our larger cities and college towns offer the most diverse offerings -- with fine dining, vegetarian eateries and restaurants serving up global cuisine sitting alongside our many casual American family-style restaurants -- but don't overlook our small towns. In places like Washington, Mount Vernon, Kalona and Anamosa, you'll find cozy cafes serving up unique, tasty meals that are worth driving the extra mile for.

Find hotels & plan your eating adventure across Iowa with our iGuide.

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