One of the best restaurants I’ve been to in the past year is the Alcester Steakhouse, a restaurant and lounge a few miles from the Iowa border in the community of Alcester, South Dakota.
Don’t let the drab exterior fool you: the Alcester Steakhouse features quality, innovative food rarely seen at small-town restaurants. The salad bar is well-stocked, and the side dish list is extensive. Their steaks are exceptional, and the nightly specials go beyond the scope of most comparable dining destinations.
You can enjoy lunch and dinner Monday through Friday, while dinner is offered every night except Sunday. If you do visit the steakhouse for dinner service, reservations are recommended; you can call the steakhouse in advance at 605/934.2974.
Published November 28th, 2007 |
Brian McMillin |
Food, Places, South Dakota |
Commonly referred to as the “cheese factory,” the Twin County Dairy in Kalona, Iowa, has long been one of my family’s favorite destinations. Inside the dairy’s quaint market, visitors can sample gourmet cheeses, shop for Iowa-made goods, and, most importantly, buy some of their delicious cheese curds.
These cheese curds sold at the cheese factory are nothing like the ones you’ll find in your neighborhood grocery stores or gas stations. Sold fresh, these curds are guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. They’ll also bring a smile to your face, as a short, cute squeaking sound emerges from your mouth with each delicious bite.
If you’re traveling on I-80 and have a little time to spare, veer south on Highway 1 and stop at the dairy for a pound or two of cheese curds. Note that they’re best enjoyed at lukewarm temperature, so avoid the refrigerator until necessary – about 24 hours after purchase.
Published November 12th, 2007 |
Brian McMillin |
Eastern Iowa, Food, Places |
There’s no doubt that the downtown districts in many Iowa cities have seen better days. National retailers have opened cookie-cutter stores on the outskirts of towns, forcing local businesses to go under. Downtown areas once bustling with activity are now filled with dilapidated buildings and empty storefronts.
Fortunately, Muscatine seems to an exception, as a number of well-kept shops, charming boutiques, and local restaurants line the city streets. One of the highlights of the downtown area is the Button Factory Woodfire Grille, an upscale casual restaurant that combines first-rate food with great service and spectacular atmosphere.
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Published November 3rd, 2007 |
Brian McMillin |
Eastern Iowa, Food, Places |
