10 Best Breakfast Places in Iowa [2025] – Top Places!

Looking for a hearty breakfast to start your day in Iowa? Look no further than the best breakfast places in Iowa!

Best Breakfast Places in Iowa

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Iowa offers a diverse range of breakfast spots that are sure to satisfy any craving.

From classic diners to trendy cafes, these top breakfast places serve up everything from pancakes and eggs to waffles and bacon.

So, grab a cup of coffee and get ready to explore the best breakfast places in Iowa!

Our Top 3 Recommendations

NameDishesFeatures
The CafeFish TacosProfessional staff
Adobo’s Mexican GrillChicken BurritoDesired spot for breakfast
Bluebird DinerRatatouilleExclusive eatery

10 Best Breakfast Places In Iowa – Must Visit Spots

1- Adobo’s Mexican Grill

Without an Adobos Breakfast burrito, is it morning? In our opinion, no. It provides breakfast options in the morning from its food truck at Farmers’ Market or Restaurant, which is why it is a local favourite. It is at the top of the list.

Adobo’s Mexican Grill - Best Breakfast Places in Iowa

It offers food that is both delicious and affordable. Adobo’s Mexican Grill is popular with most Iowa people and relatively easy to find.

Why You Must Have Breakfast Here

It features traditional American diner fare and distinctive regional specialties. There are alternatives for a meal to start your day off correctly or just a light snack before heading out.

If you are in Idaho, you must taste the One of the favourite places for a morning meal is Adobo’s Mexican Grill in Dubuque, which has some of the best burgers, sandwiches, and breakfast items.

Adobo’s Mexican Grill will be on your list of destinations because it provides the best food and service in Dubuque, Iowa.

Breakfast options at this Restaurant include eggs benedict, Chicken burrito, and more.in Hoot Owl.

Most Favorite and Special Dishes

Chicken Burrito - Adobo’s Mexican Grill

Chicken Burrito

Taquitos de Carnitas - Adobo’s Mexican Grill

Taquitos de Carnitas

Fajita Veggies - Adobo’s Mexican Grill

Fajita Veggies

Price RangeUnder $10
Opening Hours11 AM – 9 PM, 7 days a week
Location6843 756 Main St, Dubuque, IA 52001, United States
Phone Number+1 563-556-4407
Websitehttps://www.adobosmexicangrill.com/

Social Profiles

Ratings & Reviews

WebsiteRatingsNumber of Reviews
Google4.6/5.0704
Tripadvisor4.5/5.074
Yelp4.0/5.051

2- Bluebird Diner, Iowa City, IA

There are many exclusive breakfast alternatives in Iowa City.

Bluebird Diner - Best Breakfast Places in Iowa

Still, the Bluebird Diner on Market Street stands out from the crowd due to its enticing menu choices and attractive location in the Northside Marketplace of the Iowa City Downtown Area.

Bluebird’s Midwestern soul food and welcoming atmosphere will make your breakfast experience unforgettable, whether you stop in for a well-prepared omelette or a cup of coffee.

Why You Must Have Breakfast Here

Bluebird Diner’s staff is always welcoming and cooperative, which makes your breakfast experience pleasant. There are many options available, Bluebird Eggs, toast, and sandwiches.

It also provides other delicacies like Ratatouille if you are looking for something a little more daring. Everyone can find something at Bluebird Diner. Why not visit Market St, Iowa City, and tasty top breakfast places?

Most Favorite and Special Dishes

Ratatouille - Bluebird Diner

Ratatouille

Bluebird Eggs - Bluebird Diner

Bluebird Eggs

Chicken Fried Steak - Bluebird Diner

Chicken Fried Steak

Price Range$11 – $30
Opening Hours7 AM – 9 PM, 7 days a week
Location330 E Market St, Iowa City, IA 52245, United States
Phone Number+1 319-351-1470
Websitehttp://bluebird.cafe/locations/bluebird-iowa-city/

Social Profiles

Ratings & Reviews

WebsiteRatingsNumber of Reviews
Google4.5/5.01,462
Tripadvisor4.5/5.0367 
Yelp4.0/5.0431 

3- The Cafe, Ames, IA

The Cafe is undoubtedly Ames’ best place to eat breakfast, which is unsurprising.

The Cafe - Best Breakfast Places in Iowa

The Cafe knows how to do breakfast because of its extensive coffee menu, daily-made fresh bakery goods, and ideal breakfast fare. All their meals are made with fresh ingredients and cooked to order.

This breakfast spot has earned a special place in food lovers’ hearts.

Why You Must Have Breakfast Here

The Cafe is a must-visit if you ever find yourself in Ames for breakfast. Due to its offering of a delectable breakfast, this cosy cafe is popular.

You may get an extensive breakfast right here. There is food at The Cafe to sate your appetite. This location makes your morning pleasant with its welcoming personnel and inviting atmosphere. Visit The Cafe right away if you want Ames’s favourite breakfast.

Most Favorite and Special Dishes

Fish Tacos - The Cafe

Fish Tacos

French Toast - The Cafe

French Toast

Cafe Burger - The Cafe

Cafe Burger

Price Range$11 – $30
Opening Hours7 AM – 8 PM, 7 days a week
Location2616 Northridge Pkwy, Ames, IA 50010, United States
Phone Number+1 515-292-0100
Website Linkhttps://thecafeames.com/

Social Profiles

Ratings & Reviews

WebsiteRatingsNumber of Reviews
Google4.7/5.01,652
Tripadvisor4.5/5.0536
Yelp4.5/5.0465

4- Machine Shed Restaurant, Urbandale, IA

The Machine Shed Restaurant has ideal locations around Iowa where you can get the traditional Iowa breakfast, making it easy to discover in Hawkeye State.

Machine Shed Restaurant - Best Breakfast Places in Iowa

Be ready to go on a meal that will give you energy for the rest of the day or result in a post-breakfast sleep. The Machine Shed Restaurant offers dishes like the Country Market Skillet and sweet buns to help you prepare for a long day.

Why You Must Have Breakfast Here

The Machine Shed Restaurant is a famous breakfast when you visit Urbandale, IA. There are many choices for breakfast to get your day start or just a quick snack before going to work.

With an emphasis on quality and service, this restaurant offers its customers a tidy and welcoming environment.

Most Favorite and Special Dishes

Burnt Ends - Machine Shed Restaurant

Burnt Ends

Chicken Tenders - Machine Shed Restaurant

Chicken Tenders

French Toast - Machine Shed Restaurant

French Toast

Price Range$11 – $30
Opening Hours6:30 AM – 9 PM, 7 days a week
Location11151 Hickman Rd, Urbandale, IA 50322, United States
Phone Number+1 515-270-6818
Website Linkhttps://machineshed.com/

Social Profiles

Ratings & Reviews

WebsiteRatingsNumber of Reviews
Google4.4/5.05,380
Tripadvisor4.0/5.0873
Yelp3.5/5.0387

Also Check: Best Breakfast Places in Connecticut

5- Duncan’s Cafe, Council Bluffs

Duncan’s Café quaint, family-run cafe that offers some of the best breakfast in town is tucked away in a historic section of Council Bluffs.

Duncan's Cafe - Best Breakfast Places in Iowa

A taste of local history provides through the abundance of entertaining vintage artefacts that decorates the space. In addition to providing breakfast, this cafe also provides a great cup of coffee and delicious coffee drinks.

Why You Must Have Breakfast Here

One of the top breakfast eateries in Council Bluffs is Duncan’s Café because it consistently offers unusual, one-of-a-kind dishes.

Its breakfast is more than just a meal; it adds value and flavour. There is usually a lot to enjoy, excellent service, and plenty of food. This restaurant’s Link Sausage is a favourite, but it’s best to try something new every time you go to get a sense of the full menu.

Most Favorite and Special Dishes

Small Skillet - Duncan’s Cafe

Small Skillet

Link Sausage - Duncan’s Cafe

Link Sausage

Chicken Fried Steak - Duncan’s Cafe

Chicken Fried Steak

Price RangeUnder $10
Opening Hours7 AM – 2 PM, 7 days a week
Location501 S Main St, Council Bluffs, IA 51503, United States
Phone Number+1 712-328-3360

Social Profiles

Ratings & Reviews

WebsiteRatingsNumber of Reviews
Google4.7/5.0182
Tripadvisor4.5/5.0123
Yelp4.5/5.083

6- Waveland Cafe, Des Moines, IA

The breakfast counter at the Waveland Cafe in Des Moines serves the tastiest hash browns in the known universe.

Waveland Cafe - Best Breakfast Places in Iowa

The Waveland Cafe has a full menu of favorite breakfast foods, including chicken-fried steak and omelettes. It’s not just about the hash browns. Residents of Des Moines and surrounding areas frequent the Waveland Cafe for food and stay after paying the bill because of the calm environment.

Why You Must Have Breakfast Here

What makes this a good breakfast place? You eat breakfast at Waveland Cafe for the following reasons:

It provides a variety of breakfast items to enhance your morning. Everyone can find something here. You will also feel at home when you come here a breakfast due to the welcoming staff and wonderful ambience. 

Waveland Cafe is where you spend some time and have breakfast. 

Most Favorite and Special Dishes

Waveland Skillet - Waveland Cafe

Waveland Skillet

Mexi - Waveland Cafe

Mexi

Breakfast Special - Waveland Cafe

Breakfast Special

Price RangeUnder $10
Opening Hours6 AM – 2 PM, 7 days a week
Location4708 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311, United States
Phone Number+1 515-279-4341
Website Linkhttps://www.wavelandcafe.com/

Social Profiles

Ratings & Reviews

WebsiteRatingsNumber of Reviews
Google4.6/5.01,882
Tripadvisor4.0/5.0123
Yelp4.0/5.0230

Also Check: Best Breakfast Places in Pennsylvania

7- Jimmy’s Pancake House, Bettendorf

In a welcoming setting, Jimmy’s Pancake House serves your favourite breakfast foods. They have tasty pancakes.

Jimmy's Pancake House - Best Breakfast Places in Iowa

The main compliment about the food here is that its quality is better than any other breakfast place in the city. The best place to eat delicious breakfast in Bettendorf is Jimmy’s Pancake House, according to natives, tourists, and business owners.

Why You Must Have Breakfast Here

The fact that Jimmy’s Pancake House caters to those of us who enjoy freshly prepared meals that are simple to prepare is by far its best feature.

The ideal place to eat breakfast is Jimmy’s Pancake House. It’s a cheap way to put food on the table and a terrific place to experiment with new dishes. 

Jimmy’s Pancake House offers a calm atmosphere, making it ideal for breakfast. It is a professionally operated business and uses organic breakfast foods and regional organic produce, like fruit and veg. 

Most Favorite and Special Dishes

Jimmy’s Grand Slam - Jimmy's Pancake House

Jimmy’s Grand Slam

French Toast - Jimmy's Pancake House

French Toast

Chicken Fried Steak - Jimmy's Pancake House

Chicken Fried Steak

Price Range$11 – $30
Opening Hours6 AM – 3 PM, 7 days a week
Location2521 18th St, Bettendorf, IA 52722, United States
Phone Number+1 563-355-2799
Website Linkhttps://jimmyspancakehouse.com/

Social Profiles

Ratings & Reviews

WebsiteRatingsNumber of Reviews
Google4.6/5.01,435
Tripadvisor4.5/5.0277
Yelp4.5/5.0257

8- Mullet’s, Des Moines

Mullet’s is your favourite spot to get breakfast if the weather permits you to eat on the roof and enjoy the spectacular view of the Des Moines cityscape. While you’re there, make sure to purchase one of their mimosas.

Mullet's - Best Breakfast Places in Iowa

Mullet’s will satisfy your cravingsbecause the owner is an expert in providing fresh products. It is the ideal setting for a morning meal. Here you will find an extensive menu with new choices. 

Why You Must Have Breakfast Here

It provides a delicious and wholesome breakfast. The staff is welcoming and accommodating. It has a relaxed environment.

The restaurant serves tasty, fresh, and healthful breakfast fare in a relaxed atmosphere. You can choose from mouthwatering foods. 

Most Favorite and Special Dishes

Breakfast Meatloaf - Mullet's

Breakfast Meatloaf

Hungry Man Breakfast - Mullet's

Hungry Man Breakfast

Breakfast Burrito - Mullet's

Breakfast Burrito

Price Range$11 – $30
Opening Hours7 AM – 2 PM, 7 days a week
Location1253 1300 SE 1st St, Des Moines, IA 50315, United States
Phone Number+1 515-244-1443
Website Linkhttps://mulletsdm.com/

Social Profiles

Ratings & Reviews

WebsiteRatingsNumber of Reviews
Google4.5/5.02,478
Tripadvisor4.0/5.0151
Yelp4.0/5.0295

9- The Grove Cafe, Ames, IA

The Grove Cafe serves students and community people and is situated in the Ames Downtown District next to the Iowa State University campus.

The Grove Cafe - Best Breakfast Places in Iowa

Whether you’re craving something spicy or sweet, the Grove Cafe has to serve you. No matter what you choose to eat—from hash browns to French toast and every variation of egg in between—the Grove Cafe offers a complete breakfast menu. 

Why You Must Have Breakfast Here

The best breakfast spot with delicious food is The Grove Cafe. You can order from filling omelettes, waffles, and sandwiches to unusual meals like Forest Wanderer and avocado toast.

It is a location to visit because of the kind of service and affordable costs. The welcoming atmosphere and attractive decor make you feel good when you go there.

Most Favorite and Special Dishes

Raspberry Rhubarb Cakes - The Grove Cafe

Raspberry Rhubarb Cakes

Spinach Dip Omelet - The Grove Cafe

Spinach Dip Omelet

Two Eggs - The Grove Cafe

Two Eggs

Price Range$11 – $30
Opening Hours6 AM – 2 PM, 7 days a week
Location124 Main St, Ames, IA 50010, United States
Phone Number+1 515-232-9784
Website Linkhttp://www.grovecafe.com/

Social Profiles

Ratings & Reviews

WebsiteRatingsNumber of Reviews
Google4.4/5.0573
Tripadvisor4.0/5.085
Yelp4.0/5.0100

10- Morg’s Diner, Waterloo, IA

Visit Morg’s Diner on Mulberry Street in Waterloo if you’re looking for a traditional diner.

Morg’s Diner - Best Breakfast Places in Iowa

Morg’s has perfected breakfast soul food in their charming booth-style restaurant and bar for the past 50 years of serving the neighbourhood’s staple breakfast foods.

The remainder of your day is guaranteed to be good if you visit Morg’s booth on any day of the week and a waitress asks what you would like for breakfast.

Why You Must Have Breakfast Here

People from many walks gather at the buzzing Morg’s Diner for breakfast or lunch. You will remember how excellent the cuisine was at this restaurant.

After breakfast, this restaurant is the best site to begin your day.

Most Favorite and Special Dishes

Chicken Fried Steak - Morg’s Diner

Chicken Fried Steak

French Toast - Morg’s Diner

French Toast

Links - Morg’s Diner

Links

Price Range$11 – $30
Opening Hours6 AM – 2 PM, 7 days a week
Location520 Mulberry St, Waterloo, IA 50703, United States
Phone Number+1 319-234-2416

Social Profiles

Ratings & Reviews

WebsiteRatingsNumber of Reviews
Google4.7/5.0998
Tripadvisor4.5/5.0‎127
Yelp4.5/5.0136

Final Thoughts

Iowa has several breakfast spots; however, the selection of breakfast fare limits. Most homemade items use in breakfast, so choosing one should be simple.

We list the top breakfast spots in Iowa on this site. We offer a list of Iowa’s top places to eat breakfast.

The recommendations in this article should have given you some ideas for where to go the next time you’re in Iowa for a fantastic breakfast.

Visit “Tourista Tales” to discover additional top breakfast destinations around the world.

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