Top Restaurants In Council Bluffs, Iowa

Pizza King opened way back in 1965 and throughout this half-century the restaurant has been run by the same family, the Poulos. They began by serving pizza, but have long since expanded into steaks, seafood and more. Apart from this expansion of the menu, much has stayed the same in this restaurant since it opened. Its period dining rooms become more charming as they get older.

The Salty Dog, so named because it was the best name the owners could make using the letters from the title of the restaurant that had previously occupied the space (‘The Longest Yard’), is best known for its wings. In the five years since it opened with its rearranged sign, it has swiftly become the go-to place for this type of food. These signature ‘Charbuff’ wings, so-called because they are finished on the grill, come in dozens. They are available in buffalo, spicy or ghost pepper, famously one of the world’s spiciest chillies.

Situated off Council Bluff’s historic Main Street, Duncan’s Café offers the traditional small town-diner experience with a menu of classics like chicken fried steak, breakfast skillets and its popular tenderloin. The diner offers you everything you would expect: friendly staff, hearty portions and a warm and comforting atmosphere. When we say hearty, we really mean it: expect some of its gigantic omelets or hash browns to leave you with plenty of leftovers to tide you through the rest of the day.

Offering hot and cold sandwiches throughout the day, and a small-but-perfectly-formed menu of appetizers in the evening, Cellar 19 is a deli dedicated to high-quality food. It also has a wine list featuring many exclusives from the region, all hand-chosen for their quality. Those who enjoy these wines can also join their highly recommended wine club, which offers tastings and new features every month. Food-wise, this insistence on quality is continued through their freshly baked bread, local meats, cheeses and appetizers.

With its fun nautical interior, popular and acclaimed catfish dinners and use of fresh over frozen fish, it is no wonder that Mo Fish has been successful enough to be moving towards its 10th anniversary serving Council Bluffs. Specializing in carp and Alaskan walleye, as well as catfish, there is much for all fish fans to enjoy, and enough to convert even the most solid fish-phobic.

Found on the 12th floor of the Harrah’s Hotel and Casino in Council Bluffs, the 360 Steakhouse has scenic views. Offering steaks and seafood primarily among a few other carefully selected dishes, the food more than matches the view. Whether you’re seated on the Omaha side or the Council Bluffs side; the restaurant has a stunning backdrop. Dine here for some expertly cooked beef with views over two states.

Consistently acclaimed for its delicious barbecue food, some call Boxer the best in the Midwest. Try their sampler plates, which offer you a choice between their famous ribs, brisket, pulled pork and chicken. Apart from the meat, Boxer BBQ also offers a great set of sides that complement their perfectly cooked cuts. This adds to the experience that truly is the most authentic barbecue joint you will find in Iowa.

Tish’s Restaurant took an unusual route in becoming a restaurant. For 15 years beginning in 1980, Tish’s was a ice cream walk-up window that also did sandwiches. Now it is one of Council Bluffs’ signature restaurants, offering a full-service restaurant and bar – something you cannot say for many other former ice cream trucks. This story aside, however, Tish’s is a great restaurant in its own right, serving perfect cocktails and providing a well-crafted menu of classic flavors.
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