Food ames iowa – Food in Ames, Iowa is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, offering a culinary adventure that caters to every palate. From the diverse dining halls and restaurants on campus to the authentic Iowa fare and international cuisines found in the city, Ames is a foodie’s paradise.
Whether you’re a student seeking affordable dining options or a visitor eager to experience the local culinary scene, Ames has something to satisfy your cravings. Join us as we explore the delectable delights that await you in this vibrant college town.
Iowa State University Food Scene
Iowa State University boasts a diverse culinary scene that caters to the diverse tastes of its students. From classic American fare to international cuisines, there’s something for everyone on campus.
Dining Halls
Iowa State University operates several dining halls that offer all-you-care-to-eat options. These dining halls are popular among students for their convenience and variety of choices.
- The Market at the Gateway: This dining hall features a wide selection of international cuisines, including Asian, Mexican, and Italian dishes.
- The Union Drive Marketplace: This dining hall offers a more traditional American menu, with options such as burgers, fries, and pizza.
- The Seasons at Friley: This dining hall is known for its healthy and sustainable options, including vegan and gluten-free dishes.
Restaurants
In addition to dining halls, Iowa State University is home to a number of restaurants that offer a variety of dining experiences. These restaurants are located both on and off campus.
- The Stuffed Olive: This restaurant is known for its Mediterranean-inspired dishes, including hummus, falafel, and shawarma.
- Cy’s Roost: This restaurant is a popular spot for burgers and fries, and it also offers a wide selection of craft beers.
- Aunt Maude’s: This restaurant is a local favorite for breakfast and lunch, and it is known for its homemade cinnamon rolls.
Student Reviews and Recommendations
Students at Iowa State University generally have positive reviews of the food scene on campus. They appreciate the variety of options available, as well as the convenience of the dining halls.
“I love the food at Iowa State,” said one student. “There’s something for everyone, and the dining halls are always clean and well-maintained.”
“I especially like the international cuisine options at The Market,” said another student. “I can try dishes from all over the world without even leaving campus.”
Local Cuisine in Ames
Ames, Iowa, offers a diverse culinary scene that showcases the flavors of the Midwest. From classic Iowa fare to international cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Signature Dishes and Local Specialties
Iowa is known for its hearty and comforting dishes. Some of the must-try local specialties include:
- Pork Tenderloin Sandwich:A breaded and fried pork tenderloin served on a bun, often topped with lettuce, tomato, and onion.
- Corn on the Cob:Freshly picked corn boiled or grilled and slathered with butter.
- Runza:A savory pastry filled with ground beef, cabbage, and onions.
Best Restaurants for Authentic Iowa Fare
For an authentic Iowa dining experience, visit these local favorites:
- The Cafe:A casual spot known for its classic American dishes, including the famous pork tenderloin sandwich.
- Olde Main Brewing Company:A brewpub offering a wide selection of craft beers and a menu featuring Iowa-inspired dishes.
- Gateway Market:A historic market with a deli counter serving up traditional Iowa fare, such as runzas and meatloaf.
Farmers’ Markets and Food Festivals
To experience the freshest local produce and culinary creations, visit these farmers’ markets and food festivals:
- Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market:A weekly market featuring fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and baked goods.
- Iowa State Fair:An annual event showcasing the best of Iowa’s agriculture, including food competitions and culinary demonstrations.
International Food Options
Ames boasts a diverse culinary scene that reflects its global community. From authentic ethnic eateries to fusion cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
The city’s international food options are particularly impressive, offering a wide range of cuisines from around the world. These restaurants play a vital role in fostering cultural exchange and promoting understanding among different communities.
Popular Ethnic Restaurants and Dishes
- Indian: India Palace, Taj Mahal, Curry House(Butter chicken, tandoori chicken, naan bread)
- Mexican: El Bajio, La Carreta, Taqueria Guadalajara(Tacos, burritos, enchiladas)
- Chinese: Peking Garden, Golden Bowl, Panda Express(Dim sum, stir-fries, fried rice)
- Thai: Thai Spice, Basil, Bangkok Kitchen(Pad Thai, Tom Yum soup, mango sticky rice)
- Japanese: Sushi House, Ichiban, Sakura(Sushi, ramen, tempura)
- Mediterranean: The Olive Branch, Santorini, Pita Pit(Falafel, hummus, baklava)
- Korean: Kimchi House, Seoul BBQ, Little Korea(Bulgogi, kimchi, bibimbap)
These restaurants offer not only delicious food but also a glimpse into the diverse cultures they represent. They provide a welcoming space for students, faculty, and locals to connect and celebrate the vibrant tapestry of global cuisine.
Dining Out on a Budget
Ames offers a variety of affordable dining options for students. From student-friendly restaurants with weekly specials to tips for saving money on groceries and dining out, there are many ways to enjoy Ames’ food scene without breaking the bank.
One of the best ways to save money on dining out is to take advantage of student discounts. Many restaurants in Ames offer discounts to students with a valid student ID. Another way to save money is to look for restaurants that offer daily specials or happy hour deals.
These deals can often be found on the restaurant’s website or social media pages.
Student-Friendly Restaurants
Here are a few student-friendly restaurants in Ames:
- The Workspace: This restaurant offers a variety of affordable options, including sandwiches, salads, and wraps. They also have a daily soup and salad bar.
- The Stuffed Olive: This restaurant is known for its delicious Mediterranean food. They offer a student discount on all of their menu items.
- Zanzibar’s: This restaurant is a local favorite. They offer a variety of American dishes, including burgers, pizzas, and pasta.
Weekly Specials, Food ames iowa
Here are a few restaurants in Ames that offer weekly specials:
- El Azteca: This restaurant offers a taco special on Tuesdays.
- Granite City Food & Brewery: This restaurant offers a half-price appetizer special on Mondays.
- Mickey’s Irish Pub: This restaurant offers a burger and beer special on Wednesdays.
Saving Money on Groceries and Dining Out
Here are a few tips for saving money on groceries and dining out:
- Cook at home: Cooking at home is one of the best ways to save money on food. There are many easy and affordable recipes that can be found online or in cookbooks.
- Buy generic brands: Generic brands are often just as good as name brands, but they cost less. When shopping for groceries, try to buy generic brands whenever possible.
- Use coupons: There are many ways to find coupons for groceries and dining out. You can find coupons in newspapers, magazines, and online. You can also sign up for email lists from your favorite stores and restaurants to receive coupons and discounts.
Sustainable and Healthy Eating: Food Ames Iowa
Ames, Iowa, is committed to promoting sustainable and healthy eating practices. Several restaurants and initiatives are dedicated to using local, organic, and sustainably sourced ingredients. Additionally, the city boasts a vibrant farmers’ market and a strong community of local farmers.
Local Farms and Organic Produce
The Ames Farmers’ Market is a hub for locally grown produce, meats, and dairy products. Shoppers can find a wide variety of fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables, as well as locally raised meats and eggs. Many of the vendors at the market are certified organic, and all adhere to sustainable farming practices.In
addition to the farmers’ market, there are several local farms that offer organic produce and meats. These farms often sell their products through CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture) programs, which allow consumers to purchase a share of the farm’s harvest each season.
Healthy Dining Options
Ames offers a wide range of healthy dining options. Many restaurants feature menus that emphasize fresh, local ingredients and offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Several restaurants also participate in the “Heart Healthy Ames” program, which recognizes establishments that offer healthy menu choices.In
addition to restaurants, Ames has several health food stores that offer a variety of organic and natural foods. These stores also offer nutrition counseling and other health-related services.
Nutrition Tips
Eating a healthy diet is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Here are a few nutrition tips to help you make healthy choices:* Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
- Choose whole grains over refined grains.
- Limit unhealthy fats and processed foods.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Get regular exercise.
By following these tips, you can improve your overall health and well-being.
FAQ
What are some must-try dishes in Ames?
Some local favorites include the Iowa pork chop sandwich, sweet corn fritters, and Maid-Rite loose meat sandwiches.
Where can I find the best international cuisine in Ames?
Ames offers a wide variety of international cuisines, including Thai, Vietnamese, Mexican, Italian, and Japanese. Check out restaurants like Bangkok Kitchen, Pho 888, El Mezquite, Casa Bovina, and Sakura.
Are there any farmers’ markets in Ames?
Yes, the Ames Farmers’ Market takes place every Saturday from May to October, offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods from local farmers and vendors.