The 30 Best Chef's specialty dishes in Iowa City, Iowa

Vinny Vanucchi's Little Italy is a beloved institution located at 180 Main Street in Dubuque, Iowa. Reminiscent of the original location in Galena, Illinois, this restaurant offers a taste of authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. From the slow-cooking marinara sauce to the checkered tablecloths and exposed brick, every detail transports you to a traditional family trattoria. Open for lunch and dinner daily, Vinny Vanucchi's offers indoor dining with walk-in or reservation options, as well as outdoor seating on a first-come, first-served basis. Carry-out orders are available for those who prefer to enjoy their favorite Italian dishes at home, and self-catering options are also offered with 24 hours notice.

The Vault Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge is a trendy and upscale dining establishment located at 342 Main Street in Dubuque, Iowa. This unique restaurant offers a sophisticated atmosphere with a modern twist, housed in a historic building that was once a bank vault. Guests can enjoy a diverse menu featuring delicious dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, as well as an extensive selection of handcrafted cocktails and fine wines. The Vault's talented chefs create innovative and flavorful dishes that cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences.

Woodfire Grille is a premier dining destination located in Dubuque, Iowa. Situated at 301 Bell Street, this upscale restaurant offers a unique and inviting atmosphere perfect for a fine dining experience. Specializing in woodfired cuisine, the menu features a wide selection of expertly crafted dishes cooked to perfection over an open flame. From succulent steaks and fresh seafood to decadent desserts, Woodfire Grille promises a culinary experience like no other. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in gourmet fare, this restaurant is sure to impress. Come and savor the flavors of Woodfire Grille for an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Dubuque.

Café d'Marie is a charming and historic institution located at 614 West 5th Street in Davenport, Iowa. This cafe, restaurant, and store offers a unique dining experience in a beautiful home dating back to the 1860s. Owned by Dr. DeAnna Marie Walter and chef Rick Kimmel, Café d'Marie welcomes guests to enjoy a mix of American dishes with a European twist. Families from around the world have found this hidden gem to be a perfect getaway from daily life. Whether you visit in the spring, summer, fall, or winter, you are sure to be charmed and delighted by the ambiance and delicious cuisine. Come and join the Café d'Marie family for an unforgettable experience.

Robert's Buffet, located at 3184 Iowa 22 in Riverside, Iowa, is a top-notch food institution offering a wide variety of delicious dishes to satisfy every palate. Chef de Cuisine, Tara Hadden, and her talented team of cooks have curated a menu that includes options from five distinct stations, ensuring a delightful dining experience for all guests. Guests can create their own fresh salads at the salad station or choose from over 50 ingredient combinations at the prepared salad section. The hot buffet lines feature a range of options including exotic Asian specialties, American and international cuisine, and a carvery station with a rotating selection of carved meats, seafood, and Midwestern favorites. Save room for dessert, as the buffet offers an array of sweet treats and handmade confections.

Clark House is a local government office located at 117 West 3rd Street in Muscatine, Iowa. This institution serves as a hub for community engagement and government services for residents of the area. The staff at Clark House are dedicated to providing assistance and resources to the public, ensuring that the needs of the community are met. Whether it's obtaining permits, accessing social services, or participating in local government meetings, Clark House is here to help. Visit us today to learn more about how we can support you and your neighbors.

Smitty's Tenderloin Shop, located at 1401 Army Post Road in Des Moines, Iowa, is a beloved institution that has been serving the community since 1952. Originally started by Bill Smith, known as "Smitty", the shop offers a variety of delicious items from tenderloins to beef burgers. The current owners, Ben and Crystal Smith, continue the tradition of making fresh and from scratch tenderloins and onion rings every morning. At Smitty's, you can enjoy the best breaded tenderloins in Des Moines, a favorite that has been voted as such for many years. The shop also offers t-shirts for purchase in-store. Whether you're looking for a quick meal takeaway or a sit-down dining experience, Smitty's Tenderloin Shop looks forward to serving you. Contact them at (515) 287-4742 or email smittystenderloins@icloud.com for more information.

De Rice is a vibrant and welcoming restaurant located at 8430 Birchwood Court in Johnston, Iowa. Our establishment offers a unique dining experience for those craving delicious Thai and Japanese cuisine in a lively atmosphere. Our friendly staff provides top-notch service to ensure all guests have a memorable visit. At De Rice, we take pride in using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients in our dishes, creating flavorful and aromatic meals that satisfy every palate. Our experienced chefs specialize in crafting authentic Thai and Japanese dishes that are sure to impress.

Premium Protein Products LLC is a leading food institution located at 710 U.S. 59 in Denison, Iowa, United States. Specializing in high-quality protein products, this company is dedicated to providing customers with top-notch ingredients for their culinary creations. With a focus on premium quality and exceptional taste, Premium Protein Products LLC is the go-to destination for all your protein needs. Whether you are a professional chef or a home cook, this institution has everything you need to elevate your dishes to the next level. Visit them today and experience the difference that premium protein can make in your cooking.

Reds Alehouse, located at 405 North Dubuque Street in North Liberty, Iowa, is not your average bar or restaurant. Step inside and you'll find a wide selection of craft beers on tap and in bottles, guaranteed to suit every taste. Whether you're a beer connoisseur or just looking to try something new, our knowledgeable staff and Beer Specialist are here to help you find the perfect brew. Our menu, crafted by our head chef, offers delicious dishes made with the freshest local ingredients. In addition to our regular menu, we also host special events like beer dinners, tap takeovers, and release parties, which have earned us awards for Best Outdoor Dining and Best Casual Dining. Join The Alehouse “A” List to stay up-to-date on all our upcoming events.

Kathmandu Restaurant is a cozy and authentic Nepalese and Indian cuisine establishment located in the heart of Windsor Heights, Iowa. Situated at 7229 Apple Valley, this restaurant offers a diverse menu filled with flavorful dishes that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Kathmandu. From traditional momos and curries to tandoori specialties and biryanis, Kathmandu Restaurant is the perfect spot to experience the rich and exotic flavors of South Asian cuisine. Whether you are a seasoned fan of Nepalese and Indian food or looking to try something new, Kathmandu Restaurant promises a delightful dining experience that will leave you coming back for more.

Puro Puebla is a vibrant Mexican restaurant located at 3220 Southeast 14th Street in Des Moines, Iowa. Our menu is inspired by the flavors and traditions of Puebla, Mexico, offering a variety of authentic dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From savory tacos and enchiladas to flavorful mole and traditional tamales, our chefs strive to bring the taste of Puebla to each and every plate. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, Puro Puebla is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal with family and friends. Come visit us and experience the true essence of Mexican cuisine right here in the heart of Iowa.

The Silver Fox Kitchen is a charming restaurant located at 400 F Avenue Northwest in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. This cozy eatery offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy delicious meals prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu at The Silver Fox Kitchen features a variety of dishes, from hearty comfort food to gourmet specialties, all expertly crafted by their talented culinary team. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch or a special dinner out, The Silver Fox Kitchen is the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings and indulge in a memorable dining experience.

Calypso 968 is a vibrant and trendy store located at 101 Jordan Creek Parkway in West Des Moines, Iowa. At Calypso 968, you can find a unique selection of clothing, accessories, and home decor items that embody a bohemian and eclectic style. Explore their curated collection of colorful and stylish pieces that are perfect for adding a touch of flair to your wardrobe or living space. Whether you're looking for a statement piece to elevate your look or a one-of-a-kind decor item to personalize your home, Calypso 968 has something for everyone. Visit their store today and discover the perfect piece to express your individuality and creativity.

New Oriental Food Store is a vibrant and bustling grocery store located at 515 East Grand Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa. As a one-stop shop for all your Asian cuisine needs, this supermarket offers a wide variety of authentic ingredients and products from across the Orient. From fresh produce to pantry staples, snacks, and specialty items, you can find everything you need to create delicious and flavorful dishes at home. The friendly staff are knowledgeable about the products and are always ready to assist you in finding exactly what you're looking for. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in Asian cooking, New Oriental Food Store is the place to go for all your culinary adventures.

Szechuan House, located at 3605 Lincoln Way in Ames, Iowa, is a popular Chinese restaurant serving up delicious cuisine to the Ames area. Known for our specialty dishes, our menu offers a wide variety of options that have been carefully crafted to create a delightful culinary experience. Whether you choose to dine in, pick up your order, or have it delivered through Beyond Menu, Szechuan House is committed to providing exceptional food and service to our customers. Come and taste the flavors of Szechuan House today!

Plated Table is a unique institution located at 625 South Dubuque Street in Iowa City, Iowa. It offers a wide range of food and liquor options, making it a one-stop shop for all your dining needs. Whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat or a special bottle of wine for a celebration, Plated Table has you covered. With a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff, this store is a must-visit destination for anyone in the area looking for quality food and beverages.