EXPERIENCE THE FLAVORS OF MASON CITY
Are you interested in the latest food fads? Do you enjoy gourmet meals and love the thrill of dining in a new restaurant? Well… you may, in fact, be a foodie! Lucky for you, Mason City’s local dining scene is more vibrant than ever and we’re more than happy to share a few of our favorite places with you…
One of only 52 surviving “Valentine-style” diners in the United States, the Suzie-Q Café has been at home in Mason City since 1948. This cute little café is a great stop. We highly recommend you try the Omwich breakfast sandwich or the Spic ‘N Span Tenderloin – rated second in the nation!
Cabin Coffee
Any average day starts off with a cup of coffee, right? Well, start your morning off GREAT with a locally roasted and packed-fresh-daily coffee from Cabin Coffee. Experience a cabin-like atmosphere while enjoying your made-to-order coffee, latte, espresso, or cold drink (my favorite is the Twister Frappuccino). If coffee isn’t your thing, the menu features a variety of other options including Italian Sodas, teas, hot chocolate, smoothies, and more! Don’t forget to grab a bite to eat… Choose from their famous cinnamon rolls, scones, muffins, butter biscotti, sandwiches, and more!
Hungry Mind
The Hungry Mind has been serving the best soups, salads, sandwiches, and gourmet hamburgers in the Mason City area since 1976. Be sure to try one of the local favorites such as the Philly Cheese Steak or homemade quiche.
Dandy’s BBQ
Enjoy the best ribs in Mason City! Hickory smoked loin back ribs, savory baked beans, cabbage salad, and fresh-baked bread await! (Is your mouth watering yet?) Dine-in or carry out… whatever suits you best!
Papa’s American Café
In the mood for cold beer, good food, and catching the game on TV? Well then, Papa’s American Café is the place for you! Legendary food, a relaxing atmosphere, and 35 flat-screen TVs… what else could you possibly need? As for favorites, there are many – such as fresh soups (made daily), hand-pressed burgers, and delicious salads. Bring your friends, family, neighbor, and dog… well, maybe not the dog, but you get the idea – Large crowds are welcome!
State Street Deli
State Street Deli offers a little taste of Chicago right here, in Downtown Mason City. Menu “creations” (named after streets in Chi-town) offer a variety of options. Traditional favorites include the Reuben, Ham & Swiss, Roast Beef, and Swiss & Pastrami.
Northwestern Steakhouse
Family-owned since 1920, Northwestern Steakhouse is well known for its mouthwatering, Greek-style steak (don’t forget the side of savory spaghetti). If steak’s not your thing, be sure to try their roasted chicken, broiled shrimp, Canadian walleye, or lamb chops. Recently named “Most Iconic Restaurant in the State of Iowa,” you don’t want to skip out on this stop. One last guarantee, besides the food being delicious, is that this is perhaps the most in-demand restaurant in town, so be there early to get your name on “the list.” We promise it’s worth the wait. (Advance reservations are available for parties of 6 or more.)
Lorados
Lorados, located right on the Plaza in Downtown Mason City, is where you will find great service AND the best Bloody Mary in town! Enjoy a relaxing lunch on the Plaza (Blackened Chicken Pasta Salad… YUM!) or partake in the nightlife atmosphere, including live music most weekends!
LD’s Filling Station
Breakfast for dinner? Sure, why not!?! Serving the best breakfast in town – all day long, LD’s Filling Station is a haven for car lovers with décor dedicated classic cars, muscle cars, domestic and imports. This menu features a great variety of selections – named for various autos and car parts, of course… Grand Prix, Rambler, Ferrari, Mustang 2+2 and Peterbilt. But breakfast isn’t the only thing that will get your motor running… burgers, sandwiches, and home-style entrees are also available. Family-owned and family-friendly, LD’s Filling Station also offer great options for the kiddos. Open at 5am every morning, 7 days a week.
Pastime Gardens
Since 1955, Pastime Gardens has been the taco heaven of the Midwest! Indulge in an amazing, wholesome dining experience with homemade Mexican cuisine. If you’re a sampler foodie, stop in every Tuesday and Saturday afternoon for an a la carte meal. That’s right, try out a variety of options without a hefty price tag – Enjoy big flavors at small prices.
Awe’z Sandwich Shop
You’ll find great food and great service at Awe’z Sandwich Shop (formerly known as Pro’s). Best known for their loose meat sandwiches – The Beef Delight, this quaint little diner also serves tenderloins, pizza burgers, hot dogs, soups, and more. Be sure to save room for dessert – we highly recommend the funnel sticks and a root beer float!
Thai Bistro & Sushi Bar
Established in 2016 and new to Downtown Mason City, Thai Bistro & Sushi Bar offers a variety of traditional and modern Thai cuisine. Recently listed by the Des Moines Register as one of the ‘New Restaurants to Try in Iowa’, it’s definitely worth a try!
Visit our complete dining directory and customize your “Foodie Experience” in Mason City!