THE 15 BEST Restaurants in Burlington, IA - With Menus, Reviews, Photos - Updated August 2024 (2024)

Customers` Favorites

“The Som is a great restaurant with a cool, eclectic atmosphere and music. The hanger steak is perfectly cooked but a bit salty. They have a variety of unique menu items, including a delicious fish sandwich and sweet potato fries. The burgers are juicy and served with tasty local dairy cheese curds. The ambient lighting and laid back feel make it a great place to dine, along with the regularly changing beer selection. Located in Burlington, it offers convenient hours and parking, making it a go-to spot for many locals.”

Customers` Favorites

“Jerry's Main Lunch is an iconic old-school greasy spoon diner in Burlington, Iowa. The staff is friendly, the food is amazing, and the prices are reasonable. They serve huge locally made cinnamon rolls. The portions are good and the selection is great. It has a cozy atmosphere with only a bar and stools. You'll feel welcome and want to come back for more.”

Customers` Favorites

“Lindo Mexico is a local Mexican restaurant known for its delicious food and welcoming environment. The verde salsa and steak enchiladas verdes are particularly popular, as is the steak chimichanga. The shrimp in garlic butter dish is also highly recommended, featuring perfectly cooked shrimp with excellent seasoning. The refried beans are rich and creamy, and the restaurant offers fresh produce and refreshing orchata. Maria, the owner, is known for her attentiveness and helpfulness. The staff is patient and understanding with young children. While parking can be a challenge, it is worth the effort for the delicious food and welcoming atmosphere.”

Customers` Favorites

“Napoli Pizza & Restaurant is a family-owned gem in Iowa, known for the best pizza and gyros in town. The friendly staff, including the owner Mike, creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The gyro pizza is a standout dish, and the ribeye dinner leaves a lasting impression. Despite a slight smoky haze in the air, the service is prompt and polite. With a wide variety of menu items, this restaurant is a favorite spot for many, offering a laid-back and kid-friendly dining experience.”

Customers` Favorites

“Martini's Grille is the best restaurant in the area, serving delicious food and drinks with impeccable service that is always friendly, prompt, and accurate. The restaurant offers fine cuts of meat, including filet and NY strip steaks, and has a tremendous view of the Burlington bridge over the Mississippi River. The service is efficient and unobtrusive, making for a wonderful dining experience.”

Customers` Favorites

“Hungry Bear is a cash-only local breakfast spot in Burlington, known for its excellent food and friendly service. The skillets and homemade pies are particularly recommended. While the service can be a bit slow on busy days, the affordable prices and welcoming atmosphere make it a must-stop for those visiting the area. The restaurant has an old-time diner look and is run by an owner who has worked there since high school and college.”

Customers` Favorites

“RonDavoo Pizza is a great family-owned business that serves delicious food. Their 10-piece chicken dinner and stuffed pizza are highly recommended, with huge, hot, and flavorful portions. The wings are also a hit, with impressive size and amazing flavor. The drive-thru service is friendly and welcoming, even for late orders. With fresh food and generous portions, RonDavoo Pizza is definitely worth a visit.”

Customers` Favorites

“The Beancounter Coffeehouse & Drinkery offers great drinks, although slightly expensive. The cozy indoor space is perfect for enjoying coffee and pastries, while the outdoor seating is beautiful. The avocado toast with side of fruit is a must-try. The breakfast pizza is delicious, and the Love Potion lotus drink is a hit. The small water jug and cups add convenience to the experience. Overall, a fine experience worth revisiting.”

Customers` Favorites

“Hawaiiowan Cafe serves world-class dishes with an Iowa twist on global cuisine. The menu features Asian-inspired options, including vegan choices, and a "vegan corner". Standout dishes include the Ahi Tuna and bibimbap with beef. The cozy atmosphere and creative drinks, including dessert drinks, make for a satisfying experience. With large portions and a commitment to quality, this restaurant is a gem in Burlington, worth making reservations for, especially on weekends.”

Customers` Favorites

“La Tavola Italian Eatery is a charming and authentic Italian restaurant located in Burlington, Iowa. Reviewers praise the high-quality food, including the Eggplant Parmesan and Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, which are described as "magnificent" and "extremely delicious." The restaurant is known for its cozy, homely atmosphere, reminiscent of dining at Nona's house. Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner, as the small size of the establishment can lead to long waits. The staff is consistently described as friendly, personable, and efficient, providing excellent service. Overall, La Tavola is a popular destination for special occasions and regular dining, offering a taste of authentic Italian cuisine in a welcoming environment.”

“Valley Monster Pub is a welcoming and eclectic spot with a friendly owner who goes the extra mile to ensure a great experience. The pub offers a wide range of brews, whiskeys, and other drinks, as well as a late-night menu option that delivers food from a local spot. The lounge area features comfortable seating, games, and a cozy atmosphere, while the outdoor space offers a nice spot to relax next to a stone fire pit. With a unique decor and a variety of beers to try, Valley Monster Pub is a great place to visit and return to.”

Customers` Favorites

“As usual Joe's was a steady flow of regulars. We ordered their new tenderloins and they are a hit with us. Very good! Darci was working and taking excellent care of everyone”

Customers` Favorites

“Stopped in tonight after a long day and not wanting to cook. The bartender was so friendly and helpful and didn’t pressure us to drink (we’re sober). Best burger I have had in iowa and the tots were so crispy!!! We will definitely be back, just make sure you have cash because they don’t take cards but they do have an ATM!!! 12/10 recommend.”

Customers` Favorites

“Mazzio's Italian Eatery offers a sublime lunch and dinner menu with phenomenal food. Southern Justin is a great employee at this tremendous location. Known for the best pizza, they even prepare custom orders promptly. For vegetarians, their thin crust veggie pizza is a hit. However, if ordering a chef salad, be specific about excluding onions and tomatoes. While the Midwest location may need more training, the overall experience is good, and with clear instructions, it is a place worth returning to.”

“Friendly neighborhood place with great food and drinks.”

Customers` Favorites

“Dunn Brothers Coffee offers a comfortable atmosphere and friendly staff. Customers can enjoy a variety of beverages, including caramel iced coffee, honey matcha, and orange dreamsicle, as well as food options like cinnamon rolls, avocado toast, and bacon grilled cheese. The restaurant is known for its welcoming environment and accommodating service.”

Customers` Favorites

“Grandpa's Homemade Ice Cream offers amazing brownie sundaes and nostalgic Butter Pecan ice cream. The atmosphere is great, with exceptional service. While the drive-thru service is efficient, some find the outdoor menu hard to read at night. The ice cream is described as larger and less creamy than Culver's, with flavors like mint chip delivering a wonderful homemade taste. Overall, Grandpa's Homemade Ice Cream is a delightful spot for a treat any day of the week.”

“First Crossing is a cafe that serves delicious food, catering to gluten-free diets and special requests. Customers appreciate the exceptional customer service from the caring owners. Specialties like cake pops and espresso bombs are must-tries. The cold espresso caramel drink with an espresso donut is a popular choice. Whether gluten-free or not, this cafe is perfect for all.”

Customers` Favorites

“Billy Sims BBQ is a restaurant known for its delicious and flavorful barbecue. The portions are generous, and the ribs are described as moist and meaty, exceeding expectations. The side dishes are also highly praised. The staff is polite, helpful, and willing to go the extra mile for customers. The restaurant's location may have an unusual entrance, but it is easy to find. This is a recommended spot for BBQ lovers.”

“Corked 101 offers an exceptional dining experience with friendly service, incredible drinks, and delicious food. The charcuterie board is a must-try, featuring fresh and varied ingredients. The staff, particularly Becca, provide exceptional service, making Corked 101 a must-visit spot.”

“I love the owners Jesse and Shayna Smith. Plus thet have great bartenders.”

“Friendly place , went for a birthday party. Bartender was super friendly. I'm not a big drinker, he made me a mixed drink, was perfect, not too strong, perfect for my taste”

“Cashus Italian Cuisine Dine in offers an exceptional dining experience. The owner is described as friendly and hardworking, ensuring the food is made fresh and to perfection. Customers have praised the quality and taste of the dishes, including the Chicken Marsala, meatball sub, and the White Christmas cake. The atmosphere is also noted as pleasant, making it the perfect spot to rest and enjoy a delicious meal after a day of shopping. With reasonable prices and a popular following among locals, Cashus Italian Cuisine Dine in is a hidden treasure worth visiting.”

Customers` Favorites

“Pookie's Thai Cuisine offers tasty food, with the option for customers to add their preferred level of heat. The restaurant provides a cozy and affordable experience, with friendly staff. Notable dishes include the Pad Thai. There was an issue with service during one visit, where a misunderstanding over tea orders led to some tension. However, the restaurant was able to rectify the situation by having another server attend to the customers' needs. Overall, Pookie's Thai Cuisine is a good choice for those seeking Thai food, particularly for vegetarians. It is a suitable place for both solo and group dining.”

Customers` Favorites

“I had my 1st experience with Dillons BBQ about ten years ago when I was my first week at a new job right down the street and had forgotten my lunch in my rides car and didn't realize it until after they had dropped me off, so I was walking down the street and saw bbq I thought hmm okay. So I went in introduced myself and told him my predicament and he made me a sandwich and told me not to worry about payment. I didn't go every day but when I didn't have anything Daryl saved my lunch and we slowly got to know each other and still to this day we are really close friends 10 years later! I love this place and yummy delicious food as ever!”

Customers` Favorites

“The Buffalo Tavern is a great spot for delicious food and a pleasant atmosphere. Known for its delicious burgers, chicken sandwiches, and sizable portions, it also offers excellent wings, reminiscent of those found in NY. The tavern features a unique squirrelly DJ on Sirius radio, adding to its charm. While takeout food may cool during long drives, the quality of the food remains excellent. For those seeking a safe and friendly neighborhood bar experience, The Buffalo Tavern offers booth seating, good bar service, and a parking lot. Don't miss their tenderloin sandwich and side salad options.”

“Starbucks offers a wide range of delicious coffee drinks, with customers praising the great quality and variety of flavors available. The service is generally excellent, with friendly and polite staff who greet customers with a smile. However, some customers have noted issues with the amount of ice in their drinks, leading to a smaller portion size. Additionally, the drive-through service can be slow at times. Overall, Starbucks provides a satisfying coffee experience, catering to the needs of both regular and new customers.”

“Goodies Galore is a well-loved bakery in Burlington, Iowa, known for its delicious cakes, cookies, and cupcakes. The mother-daughter team is praised for their top-notch service and beautiful, delicious baked goods. Ideal for special events such as birthdays, anniversaries, and graduation parties, Goodies Galore has been satisfying customers for years. From personalized sugar cookies to strawberry cupcakes, every order is met with high praise. This bakery is a must-visit for anyone looking for a sweet treat.”

Customers` Favorites

“Jimmy John's is a popular sandwich shop known for its fresh, delicious food and speedy service. The drive-thru offers convenient pickup, though some customers note the location can be difficult to access. Reviewers praise the "freaky fast" service, with one citing their own past experience working at the restaurant. The Billy Club sandwich and Cajun chicken wrap are customer favorites, described as flavorful and worth the extra effort to visit. Overall, Jimmy John's is highly recommended for its quality food and friendly, attentive staff.”

Customers` Favorites

“It was awesome! We are from Chicago and our friends took us there for lunch and spirits. The people were very nice! Food was great! The local customers treat you like family! We will come back!”

Customers` Favorites

“Lips To Go is a cute little place in a strip mall that serves fresh naked lips with sauce on the side. The breading on the naked lips had no flavor, so the sauce is recommended to warm up and enhance the taste. Parking might be a hassle, but ordering ahead is advised for a quicker service. The restaurant offers excellent customer service, with orders being perfectly labeled and easy to transport. Despite occasional fluctuations in food quality, Lips To Go consistently delivers good chicken lips that are enjoyed by all customers.”

“Best bar in town, great evening bartenders, but the woman working during the days is rude so I would suggest not going in til after 6. Tap is 2.50 and 7.50 for a pitcher so its really cheap. Great place. Pool table is too close to wall, would be great if place was expanded for more seats, and game area”

“Had a great time with Book Club tonight. Clayton is the best waiter ever!”

Customers` Favorites

“First godfathers pizza in decades and it did not disappoint. Excellent!! Very clean store and it was a great pizza! They lady working got us the best deal for what we ordered. We will order again!!”

“I showed up on a Friday evening after work with a buddy of mine we walked in sat down we got our beers and before we could take our first chug we already felt welcomed by everyone.”

“Drinks are not watered down and reasonably priced. Dunker, the proprietor, is often on site, chatting with his customers and ensuring a good time. The place is packed during prime hours and while you may at times be shoulder to shoulder, the vibe of the place for the most part is pretty good.”

Customers` Favorites

“El Taco Casa is a popular Mexican restaurant known for its delicious and affordable food. The restaurant's staff is praised for their attentiveness and efficient service. The menu offers a variety of Mexican and American dishes, including handmade tenderloins and tacos. The restaurant is also wheelchair accessible.”

“The friendly atmosphere, inexpensive drinks, an Awesome little Dive Bar”

Customers` Favorites

“McAlister's Deli offers amazing food in a clean environment. The restaurant has a visible checklist for maintaining a clean bathroom, which is checked every 30 minutes. The staff, including Tiffany, are friendly and attentive. While the prices may be high, with some items like kids' drinks and sides being extra, the quality and taste of the food are good.”

Customers` Favorites

“The Outpost Bar & Grill is a lively spot where pool players mingle and dance. The Bloody Mary and patty melt with fries were delicious, but the standout was the attentive and prompt server/bartender. A great place to relax and enjoy good food with friendly service.”

Customers` Favorites

“Culver's serves great food and drinks, including their popular cheese curds that are perfectly greasy, cheesy, and squeaky. The staff demonstrates excellent teamwork, but the restaurant could improve on cleanliness, with issues in the bathrooms and an exterior grease overflow. Some customers have experienced mistakes with their orders, but overall, the experience is alright.”

Customers` Favorites

“The Busted Cup Brewhouse offers a unique dining experience with a great menu and delicious food. The atmosphere is amazing, with a beautiful lounge area and a huge yet intimate space. Prices are reasonable, and the service is excellent, making it a must-visit spot for great food, co*cktails, and beers on tap.”

“Scooter's Coffee is a popular drive-thru cafe known for its quick service and pleasant atmosphere. Customers enjoy a variety of offerings, including coffee, breakfast items like the Getaway Cheese Omelet Bites, and refreshing Smoothies. The Peanut Butter Crunch Blender is a customer favorite, with the perfect balance of flavors. The staff is consistently friendly and efficient, making Scooter's Coffee a go-to spot for many.”

“Cold Stone Creamery is a popular ice cream shop that offers a wide variety of toppings and mix-ins for customers to customize their ice cream experience. While the sugar-free ice cream option may not be the best, the regular ice cream is generally well-received. The shop could benefit from covering the ice cream at night to prevent it from becoming dried out. Overall, Cold Stone Creamery provides a fun and customizable ice cream experience for those who enjoy experimenting with different toppings and flavors.”

Customers` Favorites

“Panera Bread offers a welcoming atmosphere with friendly staff and quick service. The restaurant is clean, with the exception of a few areas that may require extra attention. While a bit on the pricier side, the food is well worth it. The menu features a variety of options, including the popular broccoli and cheese soup with bread. Despite some inconsistent service, Panera Bread is a great spot to grab a meal.”

Customers` Favorites

“Queso's Burlington in Burlington, IA offers a variety of Mexican dishes with options for those with gluten-free restrictions. The restaurant has a clean and pleasant atmosphere, and the staff, including a standout waiter named Dillon, provide attentive and quick service. While it may not be the best TexMex food some customers have ever had, it is considered the best in the area. The burrito bowl has received positive reviews. Customers can also opt for online ordering. Overall, Queso's Burlington is a solid choice for those seeking Mexican cuisine in the area.”

Customers` Favorites

“Go Fish Sushi is a small, quaint restaurant that offers exceptional sushi experiences. With limited seating, reservations are highly recommended. The menu features a variety of fresh and delicious ingredients, including vegetarian options like the veggie roll and sweet potato tempura roll. The BlueCrab Roll is a must-try. The staff provides outstanding, friendly, and attentive service. This popular spot is known for its high-quality food and service, making it a must-visit for sushi lovers.”

“Just a basic Dairy Queen. They tend to employ a lot of teenagers, so be prepared for teen attitude, and a high turnover rate.Unfortunately this is not a brazier, so they only offer cold treats.”

Customers` Favorites

“Family Buffet offers a huge selection of Chinese food, making it a top pick within an hour radius. While it may be a bit pricey, the restaurant provides good food, soft serve ice cream, and a kid-friendly environment with high chairs and finger foods. The polite waitresses provide excellent service, making it a great spot for special occasions.”

Customers` Favorites

“The Drake restaurant is located near the Mississippi river, offering a fantastic view of the river and bridge, as well as old Main Street buildings from its expansive patio. The restaurant is built inside an old brick former factory and has a welcoming atmosphere. It provides wheelchair accessibility with a ramp to the front door and wide door openings.The menu offers many selections, and one of the meals worth trying is the Brisket Horseshoe, a generous portion of sliced smoked brisket in a tangy sauce on texas toast topped with crispy fries drizzled with sweet peppery glaze.The Drake is an excellent choice for various occasions, whether it's a baby shower or a casual dining experience. The staff is accommodating, easy to communicate with, and ensures a smooth experience for customers. The restaurant is affordable, and the food is delicious, making it an ideal location for those looking for a comfortable dining experience with nostalgia and charm.Additionally, the Burlington Welcome Center is right across the street, making it a perfect opportunity to explore the beautiful village on the river, its history, shops, magnificent churches, Victorian architecture, and famous Snake Alley.”

Customers` Favorites

“Taco John's offers a mixed dining experience. While the food, including fried chicken tacos and nacho crunch burritos, is generally praised as delicious and filling, the cleanliness of the dining area is not always up to par. The parking is plentiful, and the restaurant is wheelchair accessible. Overall, Taco John's provides a satisfactory dining option with room for improvement in certain areas.”

Customers` Favorites

“Arby's serves good food, with fresh and hot options, including curly fries. The service is generally good, with orders fulfilled correctly most of the time. However, some customers have expressed disappointment with the recent changes to the drink sizes, feeling that they are overpriced and too small. Specifically, the large jamocha shake is now smaller and more expensive than before. Despite this, Arby's remains a popular option for those looking for a quick bite. While some customers have had positive experiences, others have been deterred by the changes to the menu.”

Customers` Favorites

“Boogaloo Sports Bar & Grill offers a pleasant dining experience with attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere. The menu features popular items like the pulled pork sandwich and chicken sandwich, which have received positive reviews. The beer selection caters to various tastes, though one customer found a co*cktail to be overly salty. The restaurant is praised for its cleanliness and friendly staff, making it a recommended spot for locals and visitors alike.”

Customers` Favorites

“Happy Joe's Pizza & Ice Cream is a popular family-friendly restaurant known for its pizza and ice cream offerings. While the reviews present a mixed experience, the restaurant seems to provide a lively atmosphere and cater well to families, especially for birthday celebrations.The pizza quality appears to be hit-or-miss, with some customers complaining about overcooked crusts, minimal toppings, and high prices. However, the Chicago-style pizza is highlighted as a standout menu item that can compete with renowned pizzerias in Chicago. The buffet, priced around $10, offers a variety of options, including a taco pizza, sauerkraut and ham pizza, and fried chicken, though the quality of some items is questionable.Despite the inconsistencies in food quality, the restaurant is praised for its clean environment, including the dining area and restrooms. The buffet format, with plates located at the payment area, creates a unique setup that some customers found uncomfortable, feeling like their food intake was being monitored.Overall, Happy Joe's Pizza & Ice Cream seems to be a popular destination for families, offering a fun and lively atmosphere, especially for birthday parties. While the food quality may be uneven, the restaurant provides a range of classic pizza and ice cream options that cater to a wide audience.”

Customers` Favorites

“Perkins Restaurant & Bakery offers a welcoming atmosphere with sweet staff. The everything omelette and prime rib griller are highlights, served by polite and attentive servers. While some menu items like the muffins may have changed, the chicken fried steak remains decent. The exceptional service stands out, with a waitress who takes responsibility for mistakes and ensures customer satisfaction.”

Customers` Favorites

“Casa Mexico offers a great atmosphere with good service and okay food. The margaritas are outstanding, and the rise and beans are delicious. Located close to the casino and Hy 61 hotels, this Mexican restaurant provides simple yet delicious meals like burritos and tacos. The mild salsa caters to those who prefer less spicy flavors. The burrito is a flour tortilla filled with seasoned ground beef and covered in cheese sauce, while the taco features a hard corn shell with similar fillings. The plates are prepared with love and attention, making it a highly recommended dining experience.”

Customers` Favorites

“Applebee's Grill + Bar is a reliable restaurant for a family meal, known for its friendly and knowledgeable servers, and a variety of meal options. The garlic mashed potatoes are a popular choice, although they can sometimes be unevenly heated. The restaurant offers drink specials, including Dollaritas until the end of May and the Captain Bahama Mama, which is especially good. The 2 for $30 special includes a steak cooked to perfection with steamed broccoli and garlic mashed potatoes, or grilled chicken penne with a breadstick. Kids' meals are also available and include a main, a side, and a drink. The restaurant has an adequate parking lot and is wheelchair accessible, with ground level and easy navigation. The atmosphere is pleasant, and the noise level is not overbearing.”

Customers` Favorites

“Gator's Grill & Spirits offers a diverse menu with delectable dishes like chicken stir fry, spaghetti, and french dip sandwiches. The staff is consistently friendly and polite, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant is popular, especially on weekends, and has a bar side and a casual/formal side to accommodate different preferences.”