5 Best Hole-in-the-Wall Restaurants in Ames, Iowa to Try

Ames, Iowa, offers a selection of delightful hidden dining spots that provide unique and unforgettable meals.

Here are five hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Ames that you must try.

The Café

The Café serves up fresh and seasonal dishes in a cozy and welcoming setting.

Try their Roasted Beet Salad, featuring roasted beets, goat cheese, and a tangy vinaigrette.

Order the Braised Short Rib, tender short rib served with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.

Don’t miss their Blueberry Scone, a delightful pastry packed with fresh blueberries.

With its fresh ingredients and inviting atmosphere, The Café is a hidden gem for those seeking a farm-to-table dining experience.

Provisions Lot F

Provisions Lot F offers gourmet dishes and artisanal baked goods in a charming environment.

Try their Duck Confit, featuring tender duck served with sweet potato puree and Brussels sprouts.

Order the House-Made Gnocchi, with a rich and creamy sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Don’t miss their Almond Croissant, a flaky pastry filled with almond paste and topped with sliced almonds.

With its creative menu and delightful bakery items, Provisions Lot F is a hidden gem for culinary enthusiasts.

Whiskey River

Whiskey River combines comfort food and a lively bar scene in a laid-back atmosphere.

Try their BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich, featuring tender pulled pork smothered in barbecue sauce and served on a toasted bun.

Order the Fried Pickles, crispy pickles served with a tangy dipping sauce.

Don’t miss their Whiskey Sour, a classic cocktail with a perfect balance of whiskey, lemon, and sugar.

With its hearty dishes and fun vibe, Whiskey River is a hidden gem for bar food lovers.

The Grove Café

The Grove Café serves delicious breakfast and brunch dishes in a retro diner setting.

Try their Biscuits and Gravy, featuring fluffy biscuits smothered in rich sausage gravy.

Order the Pancake Stack, a towering stack of fluffy pancakes served with butter and maple syrup.

Don’t miss their Breakfast Burrito, packed with eggs, cheese, sausage, and a spicy salsa.

With its comforting dishes and nostalgic atmosphere, The Grove Café is a hidden gem for breakfast enthusiasts.

Hickory Park

Hickory Park offers mouth-watering BBQ dishes in a family-friendly setting.

Try their Baby Back Ribs, slow-cooked and glazed with a tangy barbecue sauce.

Order the Pulled Chicken Sandwich, featuring tender pulled chicken served with coleslaw on a soft bun.

Don’t miss their Banana Cream Pie, a sweet and creamy dessert with a graham cracker crust.

With its rich flavors and welcoming vibe, Hickory Park is a hidden gem for BBQ lovers.