Top 10 Local Eats In Ames, Iowa
The town of Ames, Iowa, is a hub of fine-dining, cultural destinations, and beautiful University buildings. Take a look at our list of the best dining to plan your visit when next in town.
The Mucky Duck Pub
Pub, Restaurant, Pub Grub, British
The Cafe
The Café aim for excellence in every aspect of their restaurant, from the pastry chefs and bakers to the front of house staff, and you’ll be tempted in purely by the scent of the freshly-baked bread. It’s evident that they value craftsmanship in every aspect of their dishes, buying from quality suppliers who employ traditional techniques such as casing sausages and smoking meats over wood fires. The dessert menu includes intriguing reworks of classic all-American sweet treats such as mojito mousse and eggnog. The restaurant is particularly popular for their brunch menu, which runs every Saturday and Sunday from 7am to 2pm and changes seasonally.
Destinations Unlocked:
Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture tripLooking for an expert's perspective?
Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.Next
SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Next
Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers. Next
Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt. Next
The Cafe 2616 Northridge Parkway, Ames, IA, USA, +1 515-292-0100
http://instagram.com/p/BJ3D37DgYux/?taken-by=thecafeames
Hickory Park
Hickory Park Restaurant Co. was established in Ames in 1970 and has since become a true institution of the local dining scene. The classic feel of the restaurant is accentuated by vintage decor and posters, making it a nostalgic, convivial place to be. Their speciality is hickory smoked meat and BBQ dishes, but they also provide an extensive but affordable menu, including plenty of vegetarian options, gluten-free dining and a dessert menu. It’s a favourite for locals who have been coming here to celebrate special occasions for several generations. The place is usually bustling with people, making it the perfect place to experience Iowa hospitality.
Hickory Park 1404 South Duff Avenue, Ames, IA, USA, +1 515-232-8940
http://instagram.com/p/BJZNSB7BZeS/?taken-at=234374281
Aunt Maude’s
Restaurant, American
Cafe Beaudelaire
Cafe, Restaurant, Brazilian, Vegetarian, Vegan
West Street Deli
The West Street Deli provides the perfect pit stop for lunch in Ames. They offer a huge range of sandwiches in generous portion sizes; house favourites include steak and blue cheese and Cajun tuna melt. They also supply a build your own sandwich option, which is a world away from the equivalent sandwiches at chain restaurants. This venue is hugely popular locally with students and non-students alike, so make sure to get there early in order to get a seat.
West Street Deli 2810 West Street, Ames, IA, USA, +1 515-268-4605
http://instagram.com/p/BBF4XH9Pu7H/?taken-at=6287962
Dublin Bay
Pub, Restaurant, Irish
Great Plains Sauce and Dough
Restaurant, Pizzeria, American
+39 Restaurant
Deli, Restaurant, Wine Bar, Italian
Odd Fellows
Diner, Restaurant, American
Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip
meet our Local Insider
Hanna
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?
I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!
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