It's not in Iowa's largest city, or even the 2nd or 3rd largest city, but this little known iconic Iowa steakhouse has people driving for hours and waiting in line, in the rain, just to get a table. If you don't get turned away and actually get a table you'll find out why.
Des Moines' premier food writer Brian Taylor Carlson joins me monthly and this time he was talking steak. He recently had the chance to visit an amazing Iowa steakhouse place people drive hours to experience. This little known Iowa Steakhouse is nestled comfortably in Mason City, Iowa.
Northwestern SteakhouseLittle-known Northwestern Steakhouse is an iconic Iowa steakhouse is getting close to celebrating their 100th year being founded in 1920, with a famous steak recipe dating back to 1957. The restaurant has been in the Papouchisfamily for generations. Currently it's owned and operated by Bill and Ann Papouchis.
Northwestern Steakhouse in Mason City is filled to the brim every single night with most people opting to wait in line before they open every single day. Carlson arrived at 4:15p on a Tuesday and waited in the rain with other patrons until they opened at 5p. It's a good thing because they had to start turning people away. Opening time is also when they start accepting reservations. Locals told him this isn't unusual. Locals obviously fill the place, but people make the drive from all over the state just to get a taste of this iconic Iowa Steakhouse.
Iconic Iowa SteakhouseSteak options, including all the favorites like Porterhouse, Ribeye, Filet Minon, New York strip and most other cuts are seared to perfection on a cast iron skillet with butter and olive oil. Interestingly, steak at Northwestern Steakhouse can be served with a side of spaghetti, created simply using olive oil, garlic and parmesan which Carlson said was a perfect pairing, there is a wide range of sides however, and not to mention their homemade salad dressings.
If you're mouth is watering and you're ready for a scenic Iowa drive, Northwestern Steakhouse's website can be found here.
Listen to Brian Taylor Carlson describe his experience
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