The Iowa Tavern
Burlington, Iowa, USA
Discover The Iowa Tavern in Burlington, IA offering a cozy bar & grill experience with great beer, cocktails, and local specialties. Check menu, hours, and reviews.
2103 Des Moines Ave, Burlington, IA 52601, United States
The Iowa Tavern
Burlington, Iowa, USA
Overview
Located in Burlington, Iowa, The Iowa Tavern is a beloved bar & grill known for its casual and cozy atmosphere. This local spot offers a flavorful dive into comfort food classics, accompanied by an extensive selection of beers, cocktails, and wines. With a welcoming vibe perfect for groups and solo diners alike, it’s a go-to destination for lunch, dinner, or a quick bite with friends.
The menu boasts popular dishes such as ribeye sandwiches, fried shrimp baskets, and hearty beef tacos, complemented by bar games and great sports viewing. Whether enjoying a relaxed happy hour or a late-night snack, patrons appreciate the fast service and variety of offerings, including small plates and late-night food. Accessible amenities and free parking add to the ease of visiting this vibrant local tavern.
Gallery
Real shots of the food, atmosphere, and signature dishes at this location.
Local favorites
A favorite spot in Burlington for casual dining with a vibrant atmosphere and quality comfort food.
Enjoy a diverse selection of beers and expertly crafted cocktails perfect for any occasion.
Engage in entertaining bar games that add excitement to every visit.
Staff provide prompt food preparation with attentive care and a welcoming attitude.
A cozy, casual atmosphere that fits both groups and solo diners looking for comfort food.
Popular menu items like fried shrimp baskets and ribeye sandwiches highlight local flavors.
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, seating, and restrooms ensure comfortable visits for all guests.
Flexible dining with quick bites available for takeout or relaxing dine-in seating.
Experience
This inviting bar & grill offers a versatile experience perfect for various occasions, from casual lunches to lively group dinners and late-night hangouts.
The Iowa Tavern impresses with attentive service and a menu full of satisfying comfort food favorites, making it an ideal spot to relax, catch a game, or enjoy a flavorful meal with friends or solo. — FoodPlacee editorial note
Perfect for gathering with friends or family, the welcoming space and tasty dishes like the ribeye sandwich and combo baskets fuel memorable shared meals.
Enjoy great cocktails, beer selections, and happy hour specials on drinks and food while unwinding in a cozy atmosphere with bar games and sports on screen.
Stop by for a prompt and satisfying mid-day meal with options like crispy shrimp salad and quick bites designed to fit within a busy schedule.
Open late on weekends, this spot offers tasty late-night comfort food and cocktails perfect for night owls seeking a casual meal or drink.
Ideal for those on the go, takeout options allow customers to enjoy favorites such as tenderloins and fried chicken from home or the office.
Reservations are accepted, making it easy to plan a smooth dining experience for special occasions or busy evenings.
Guest sentiment
A snapshot of what local diners frequently mention about this location.
"Great food. Staff was great even though we were clearly not locals."
"Fantastic tenderloin. Literally one of the best in Iowa, and we have been to Dairy Sweet in Dunlap who was ranked as the best in Iowa in 2024. This definitely competes with it."
"Note: Reopened under new ownership and management in July 2024 - come visit the new Iowa Tavern. (Closed on Mondays) *Outstanding* breaded pork tenderloin sandwiches (I'm willing to argue they are likely the best in Burlington and word of mouth that I received is supporting that), excellent service, super clean, and spacious seating at high-top tables, the bar, and regular tables. Lunch-hour environment (my only experience so far) is well-lit and conducive to meal-time discussion around the table. Service is friendly and relatable with prompt food prep and attentive check-ins. Even the cook came out to see that our meals were pleasing. Loved it. (!) Plus, if they are doing tenderloins this well, I can't wait to find out what other magic they're producing in the kitchen. Eager to return on future trips to the area and start a crawl through the menu. Highest recommendation. Not to be missed."
"The bartender was great and the ribeye sanmich was good.sure I will be back to try the other menu items. And they have Bud select stocked"
"I ate lunch with my sister, mom and aunt today. We came here for the fried chicken and we were not disappointed. It was fried just like my mom used to make it. It was crispy and not greasy. This is the best fried chicken that I have had anywhere in the area. The waitress was very pleasant and friendly. It was an enjoyable lunch. My Mom and aunt would like to see them get door dash so that they can order it whenever yhey want."
"Wonderful food my tenderloin was huge and the bartender overheard my wife had an allergy to gluten and made her some delicious grilled catfish. What a wonderful staff thank you Mike, Misty, and management. Ps best bathrooms in Burlington."
"ALL NEW STAFF!! Taco's on Thursday, always serving burgers, tenderloins, appetizers. Great place to unwind and have a good time."
"Clean, friendly bartender, best tacos in town I stop every Thursday I highly recommend u stop and try a new shot."
Visit info
Weekly hours below — always confirm with the business before holidays or special events.
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM - 09:00 PM |
Plan visits from mid-morning until late evening to enjoy lunch, dinner, and lively late-night hours.
On the map
Find your way to The Iowa Tavern in Iowa .
Questions answered
Find answers to common questions about The Iowa Tavern, a popular bar & grill in Burlington, IA. Discover details about dining options, menu highlights, accessibility, and more.
For owners
Update this page with accurate hours, menu details, photos, and business notes — and reach food lovers searching for places like yours on FoodPlacee.
Menus, prices, hours, services, and availability may change. Please contact the food place directly before visiting or ordering.