Prairie City IowaRESTAURANTS & PLACES TO EAT


Listed below are some of the best restaurants and places to eat near Prairie City, Iowa.



1. Ariana's Tex Mex Bar & Grill

AUTHENTIC TEX-MEX EXPERIENCE


Ariana's Tex Mex Bar & Grill has become a go-to Mexican restaurant in the Prairie City area, offering genuine Tex-Mex cuisine. The restaurant features a diverse menu in a vibrant atmosphere with friendly service. Located at 112 E Jefferson St, Ariana's combines great hospitality with delicious food for a complete dining experience.


2. Goldie's Ice Cream Shoppe

BELOVED LOCAL ICE CREAM


Goldie's Ice Cream Shoppe is ranked as the #1 dessert destination in Prairie City, serving American cuisine in a casual setting. Open seven days a week with seasonal hours, Goldie's offers both dessert treats and regular meal options with the kitchen closing at 8:30 PM. The establishment features table service, takeout options, and wheelchair accessibility for a comfortable dining experience.


3. Stampede

CLASSIC AMERICAN FARE


Stampede offers classic American cuisine in a comfortable, casual atmosphere in Prairie City. Their menu highlights include their signature bison burger, which customers have described as exceptional. The restaurant provides good value for money with reasonable prices for quality food.


4. Casey's

FAMOUS GAS STATION PIZZA


Casey's is a convenient dining option in Prairie City offering pizza and fast food in a casual setting. While primarily known as a gas station, Casey's has developed a reputation for its surprisingly good pizza that has become a local favorite. The establishment offers quick service and budget-friendly prices for travelers and locals alike.


5. Prairie Canary

FARM-TO-TABLE AMERICAN CUISINE


Prairie Canary is a charming farm-to-table restaurant located in nearby Grinnell that emphasizes locally-sourced ingredients. Their menu changes seasonally to showcase the freshest produce, meats, and dairy products from Iowa farmers. The cozy, rustic ambiance complements their creative take on American comfort food with a modern twist.



6. Big Acai Bowl

HEALTHY BOWLS & SMOOTHIES


Big Acai Bowl offers a refreshing alternative to traditional dining with their focus on nutritious acai bowls, smoothies, and healthy snacks in nearby Newton. The bright, modern space creates an inviting atmosphere for health-conscious diners looking for fresh options. Their colorful, Instagram-worthy bowls are topped with an array of fresh fruits, granola, and superfoods.


7. Uncle Nancy's Coffeehouse

COZY COFFEE & BITES


Uncle Nancy's Coffeehouse serves as a community gathering spot in Newton with an extensive menu of specialty coffee drinks and homemade pastries. The warm, inviting space features comfortable seating arrangements and local artwork on display. Beyond coffee, they offer light breakfast and lunch options including sandwiches, soups, and salads made with quality ingredients.


8. Colfax Dairy Sweet

NOSTALGIC ICE CREAM STAND


Colfax Dairy Sweet is a beloved seasonal ice cream stand that has been serving the Colfax community for generations. Their menu features soft-serve ice cream in various flavors, sundaes, shakes, and classic American fast food like burgers and fries. The outdoor seating area creates a nostalgic summer atmosphere that attracts families and travelers alike.


9. The Rusty Duck

HEARTY STEAKS & SEAFOOD


The Rusty Duck is a local favorite in Colfax known for its generous portions of steaks, seafood, and traditional American fare. The restaurant features a rustic, comfortable dining room with a welcoming atmosphere for both special occasions and casual dining. Their signature dishes include hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood options, and homestyle sides that reflect Midwestern culinary traditions.


10. Moo's BBQ

AUTHENTIC SMOKED MEATS


Moo's BBQ specializes in slow-smoked meats prepared using traditional barbecue techniques in nearby Newton. Their menu highlights include pulled pork, beef brisket, ribs, and homemade sides like mac and cheese, baked beans, and coleslaw. The casual, family-friendly atmosphere complements the hearty, flavorful food that draws barbecue enthusiasts from around the region.