Ames is more than just a college town for Iowa State—its food scene has grown into a fun mix of student‑friendly spots, chef‑y kitchens, and locally focused cafes. Around Downtown Ames, Campustown, and the main corridors, you’ll find plenty of places that feel fresh and current.
These five relatively new or newly buzz‑worthy restaurants are great picks in Ames right now.
1. The Mucky Duck Pub
A British‑style pub with Iowa charm, The Mucky Duck has become one of Ames’s coziest hangouts. Inside, it’s warm and wood‑toned with flags, pub memorabilia, and a low‑key buzz that works for both casual dates and laid‑back group nights.
The menu leans classic British and pub comfort: fish and chips, bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, curry chips, and hearty burgers. There’s a strong craft beer lineup, including local and regional brews, plus a good rotation of ciders. It’s the kind of place you duck into on a cold night and don’t really want to leave.
2. Cornbred Barbecue
Cornbred brings a modern, slightly upscale twist to Iowa barbecue, set in a cool renovated historic building with lots of brick and character. It feels more like a craft‑barbecue restaurant than a simple smoke shack.
Expect smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, turkey, and sausage, often served on metal trays with house pickles and sauces. Sides are a big draw: mac and cheese, cornbread, beans, slaw, and seasonal specials that lean into local produce. There’s a full bar with cocktails and a solid craft beer selection, making it ideal for a relaxed night out.
3. Provisions Lot F
Provisions is a polished café‑bakery‑restaurant hybrid that fits right into the “modern Midwestern” lane. The space is airy and stylish but still comfortable, with a big bakery case, an open kitchen feel, and plenty of natural light.
The menu covers daytime and evening well: breakfast and brunch bring pastries, breakfast sandwiches, quiche, scrambles, and really good coffee. Lunch and dinner lean New American with seasonal pastas, salads, grain bowls, and composed plates built around local meats and vegetables. It’s great for everything from laptop time to a nicer dinner.
4. Aunt Maude’s
A long‑time downtown favorite that has kept itself current, Aunt Maude’s feels like Ames’s classic “nice dinner out” spot with a modern bistro vibe. Dim lighting, a handsome bar, and white‑tablecloth energy make it feel special without being stuffy.
The menu leans American with global and seasonal touches: steaks, seafood, pastas, and creative starters like crab cakes, bruschetta, and hearty salads. Daily specials often highlight what’s freshest, and the wine and cocktail list is well‑curated for a city this size. It’s a go‑to for date night or celebrating with family.
5. Café Beaudelaire
Technically more of a long‑standing gem than brand‑new, Café Beaudelaire still feels fresh and “discovered” if you’ve never been. It’s a Brazilian‑influenced pub‑café in Campustown with a cozy, eclectic interior and a strong local following.
The menu centers on Brazilian comfort and pub food: legendary burgers (often with fried egg or South American toppings), pão de queijo (cheese bread), grilled meats, sandwiches, and hearty fries. The drink list includes good beer, caipirinhas, and simple but solid cocktails. It’s casual, lively, and one of the more distinctive spots in Ames.
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