One of Iowa’s Best Sandwich Shops Can Be Found in an Alley!

I'm not sure how many top-notch restaurants can claim that they sit in an alley, but one of the best sandwich shops in Iowa sure can!

The Best Sandwich Shop in Iowa

How on earth do you come up with a list of the best sandwich shops in the nation? The Des Moines Register reports that the website Only In Your State decided to weigh in on the topic. They recently released a list of the 50 Best Sandwich Shops in the U.S. Each state got a selection, and the criteria included reviews, awards, reader nominations, accessibility, inclusivity, affordability, hours, food quality, and overall value of each location, according to the Register.

The restaurant chosen to represent the state of Iowa is Canteen Lunch in the Alley in Ottumwa! The Register reports that this mom-and-pop-style diner has been in operation since 1927, and in its current location since 1936. It is Iowa's sixth-oldest restaurant!

What is the Restaurant Famous For?

The Register reports that Canteen Lunch in the Alley is famous for its loose meat sandwiches, shakes, and homemade pie. They go through 150 pounds of meat every day! Only in Your State also noted that the classic grilled cheese sandwich is a must-try.

If you want to cross off Canteen Lunch in the Alley off your Iowa restaurant bucket list, you can find the hidden gem at 112 Second Street E. in Ottumwa. They are open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Stop in for a taste of Iowa history!