The 10 Best Restaurants in Dubuque, IA
When visiting a new location, you will probably want to explore as much of the area as possible and enjoy all the best activities and attractions. It is also likely that you will dine out during your trip, so finding decent places to eat is important. If you are visiting Dubuque in Iowa, you will find that there are many excellent restaurants that you might like to try, and each is unique in terms of both its menu and the overall dining experience. To help you find the best places to dine, here are the 10 best restaurants in Dubuque, IA.
10. Woodfire Grill
If you are planning a full evening that combines dining with entertainment, then the Woodfire Grille is one of the top choices. It is the on-site restaurant at the Diamond Jo Casino, so you can enjoy a meal before visiting the casino or watching live music entertainment. Steak is the specialty of the restaurant, and there are multiple cuts from which to choose that are cooked to your liking. There are also seafood options on the menu. If you want to accompany your steak with wine, there are 32 varieties sold by the glass and a cellar holding a collection of 200 bottles.
9. Vinny Vanucchi’s Little Italy
Downtown Dubuque says that one of the places to enjoy Italian cuisine in the city is at Vinny Vannucchi’s Little Italy on Main Street. It is the second restaurant of this name opened by married couple Jack and Deb Coulter; their first is in Galena. The menu consists of classic Italian dishes, including pasta options with rich, slow-cooked sauces. An Italian theme is evident in the dining room, as there are checked tablecloths, family photographs on the wall, and sections of exposed brick.
8. Timmerman’s Supper Club
One of the best places to enjoy views of the Mississippi River while you dine is at Timmerman’s Supper Club. As it has been operating since 1961, it is one of the longest-running dining venues in Dubuque. It was launched by Helen Timmerman, a local social figure, and it sits on the banks of the river. Now, the restaurant is run by Jodi and Mark Hayes, along with Gary Neuses. Diners can enjoy steak and seafood entrees. There is an extensive wine list and a range of specialty cocktails.
7. Lina’s Thai Bistro
Those who enjoy Asian cuisine should consider dining at Lina’s Thai Bistro on Holliday Drive. It is owned by married couple Gordon Gao and Lina Qiu, and it is known for its welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant has an outstanding reputation for serving authentic noodle dishes and other traditional Thai options, including various curries and seafood platters. There are also some Korean offerings on the menu.
6. Ichiban Hibachi Steakhouse and Sushi Bar
Regardless of whether you are a meat-lover or seafood enthusiast, you will find something on the menu that appeals to you at the Ichiban Hibachi Steakhouse and Sushi Bar. There is a huge sushi bar that serves a range of signature rolls and sashimi, and there is also a cold bar for appetizers. Diners can dine at the hibachi table for the entertainment of watching the chefs prepare their choice of protein and vegetables. Alternatively, they can choose meals from the extensive menu, which has dishes such as noodles, steaks, lobster, and bento boxes. You will find Ichiban Hibachi Steakhouse and Sushi Bar on University Avenue.
5. Copper Kettle
Copper Kettle is an American-style restaurant that is known for its menu that caters to various dietary requirements, such a low-fat, vegan, and gluten-free options. Although it is an elegant restaurant, the prices are much more affordable than many of the other top restaurants in Dubuque, so it is ideal for those who want to eat delicious food but have a limited budget. At lunchtime, there is a separate menu of lighter options, such as sandwiches.
4. Brazen Open Kitchen and Bar
Vacation Idea recommends a meal at Brazen Open Kitchen and Bar while you are in Dubuque. It is an award-winning venue that is owned and run by restaurateur and executive chef Kevin Scharpf. The restaurant has a rustic style, and the menu takes a farm-to-table approach to American fare. Drinks options include a high-quality selection of beers, house cocktails, and regional wines. Brazen Open Kitchen and Bar is in the Historic Millwork District, and it is open for both lunch and dinner.
3. L. May Eatery
One of the most popular restaurants in Dubuque amongst the locals is L. May Eatery, so it is advisable to book a table in advance as the restaurant is always busy. The restaurant is open for both lunch and dinner, so it is a place where you can enjoy a light meal or a hearty dinner. The menu consists of pizzas, soup, salads, appetizers, small plates, entrees, and desserts. It is owned by siblings Lea and EJ Droessler, who like to make the customers feel at home.
2. Caroline’s Restaurant
Caroline’s Restaurant is the on-site restaurant at the Hotel Julien Dubuque, which is a historic hotel in the Old Main District. The restaurant opened after the hotel underwent significant renovations a couple of years ago, and it has since earned a reputation for being a refined restaurant with excellent service. The restaurant’s interior is stunning, with dark parquet flooring and stained glass windows. The diverse menu has dishes that are inspired by several cuisines, so there is something on the menu to suit all tastes.
1. Pepper Sprout
According to The Culture Trip, one of the best restaurants in Dubuque, IA, is Pepper Sprout on Main Street. Chef Kim Wolff runs the restaurant, and she creates seasonally changing menus that use the best ingredients from regional producers. In addition to the amazing food, Pepper Sprout has an excellent reputation thanks to the relaxed atmosphere.
