Dubuque, Iowa, is perched right on the Mississippi River, blending historical charm with modern appeal. The city’s past has shaped its culture and, of course, its food!
This guide will introduce you to some of the best restaurants Dubuque, IA, has to offer, hoping to help you find restaurants that suit your tastes and budget. Whether you’re looking for a fancy night out or a quick bite, Dubuque has something for everyone. Let’s dive in and explore the diverse dining scene!
Fine Dining Experiences in Dubuque
Looking for a special night out? Dubuque has some excellent options for a memorable fine dining experience.
L. May Eatery
L. May Eatery offers an upscale dining experience with a sophisticated atmosphere. The restaurant has garnered awards for its culinary excellence. They focus on creative American cuisine, with a menu that changes seasonally to highlight the freshest ingredients.
Timmerman’s Supper Club
For a taste of classic Americana, Timmerman’s Supper Club delivers a traditional supper club experience. Think cozy booths, classic cocktails, and hearty entrees. Timmerman’s boasts stunning views of the Mississippi River, and often features live music, adding to the nostalgic charm.
Brazen Open Kitchen + Bar
Brazen Open Kitchen + Bar brings a modern and innovative approach to dining in Dubuque. They focus on using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, creating dishes that are both fresh and flavorful. Brazen also offers tasting menus and special events, providing a unique and interactive dining experience.
Casual Dining and Local Favorites
If you’re looking for a restaurant in Dubuque that’s a little more laid-back, you’ve got plenty of choices. Here are a few local favorites:
The Crepe Station
The Crepe Station offers a delightful atmosphere and a menu centered around, you guessed it, crepes! They have both sweet and savory options, from breakfast crepes to dessert crepes to crepes stuffed with lunch and dinner fare. Some popular combos include the strawberry cheesecake crepe and the chicken cordon bleu crepe. With such a wide variety, The Crepe Station appeals to all kinds of diners.
Catfish Charlie’s
Located right on the banks of the Mississippi, Catfish Charlie’s offers a casual, riverside dining experience. As the name suggests, catfish is a specialty, but you’ll also find a variety of other seafood options. They have outdoor seating when the weather’s nice, and they often host special events throughout the year.
Vinny Vanucchi’s Little Italy
For a taste of Italy in the heart of Dubuque, head to Vinny Vanucchi’s Little Italy. This restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere and serves up traditional Italian cuisine made from family recipes passed down through generations. Their pasta dishes and pizzas are particularly popular, and they often have special events and promotions.
International Flavors in Dubuque
If you’re craving flavors from around the globe, Dubuque has some tasty options.
Thai One On
At Thai One On, you’ll find an intimate, cozy atmosphere and authentic Thai cuisine. They’re known for using traditional Thai ingredients and flavors in dishes like Pad Thai and a variety of flavorful curries. You can even customize the spice level to your liking, from mild to extra hot!
Los Aztecas Mexican Restaurant
Los Aztecas offers a vibrant and festive atmosphere, perfect for enjoying authentic Mexican cuisine. They focus on traditional Mexican flavors, using fresh ingredients to create dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and sizzling fajitas. Be sure to try one of their famous margaritas – they’re the perfect complement to any meal!
Vinny Vanucchi’s ‘Little Italy’
Craving a little taste of Italy? Vinny Vanucchi’s is a Dubuque staple and has been serving up family recipes for decades. From homemade pasta to classic red sauce dishes, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a cozy Italian kitchen. Don’t miss their lasagna or the chicken parmesan!
Breweries and Pubs with Great Food
Sometimes, you’re looking for something a little more casual than a sit-down restaurant. Here are a couple of breweries in Dubuque that serve up good food along with their brews.
Dimensional Brewing Company
Dimensional Brewing Company is a fun, laid-back spot with a wide range of craft beers, from light lagers to hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. They’re serious about their brewing process, and it shows in the quality of their beers.
The food menu includes classic pub fare like burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers. They often have special events and live music, making it a great place to hang out with friends.
7 Hills Brewing Company
7 Hills Brewing Company offers a unique atmosphere with its location and special features. Their beer selection is diverse, with something for everyone, and they pride themselves on their unique offerings.
The food menu at 7 Hills is designed to pair perfectly with their beers, enhancing the overall dining experience. They also have regular events and promotions, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the #1 best restaurant in the US?
Ah, the million-dollar question! “Best” is subjective, of course, and depends on what you’re craving. However, you can find “best restaurant” rankings from sources like the James Beard Foundation Awards, Michelin Guide, and publications like Food & Wine and Bon Appetit. Keep an eye on those lists for the latest buzz!
What’s open on Christmas Day in Dubuque, Iowa?
Finding a restaurant open on Christmas Day requires some planning! Chain restaurants like Denny’s or IHOP are possibilities. Chinese restaurants are often open, too. Your best bet is to call ahead to confirm hours, as many places operate on limited schedules during the holiday.
What is the old name of restaurant?
If you’re wondering about a specific restaurant’s former name, you’ll have to give me a hint! Restaurant names change hands and styles more often than the seasons. If you have a particular Dubuque spot in mind, I can try to dig up some history for you.
How expensive is Dubuque, Iowa?
Dubuque is generally considered to have a reasonable cost of living. It’s more affordable than many larger cities. Restaurant prices vary, of course, from casual diners to fine dining establishments. You can enjoy a delicious meal in Dubuque without breaking the bank, especially if you explore some of the local favorites.
Putting It All Together
From old-school supper clubs to trendy farm-to-table bistros, Dubuque has a restaurant for every mood and occasion. Whether you’re craving comfort food or innovative cuisine, you can find it here.
We hope this article has inspired you to explore some of the restaurants we’ve mentioned and discover some new favorites of your own. Dubuque’s culinary scene is a unique blend of tradition and innovation that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So, go ahead, dig in and enjoy the flavors of Dubuque!