When we rolled into Fort Dodge, Iowa, the welcoming arms weren’t just in the street signs—they were in the salt, sauce, and sweetness waiting at every table. It felt like being greeted by old friends, each restaurant whispering, “You’re exactly where your stomach wants to be.” And with Fort Dodge dining adventures on our minds (and tongues), we knew this was going to be less of a meal and more of a memory. From the scent of sizzling patties to the hum of hometown chatter, we were hooked. And let me tell you—it just gets better from here…
We want to thank Visit Fort Dodge for hosting our visit. Rest assured, all photos and opinions are our own.
Rides Bar & Grill – Car-Lovers’ Burger Bonanza
Stepping into Rides Bar & Grill is like revving a vintage engine—bold, cheerful, and unapologetically themed. The menu’s nod to car culture meant our burgers came screaming off the grill, a mouth-challenging behemoth we looked to tame. With every bite of that towering patty and melting cheese, we felt like we were behind the wheel of a flavor race. Our Fort Dodge dining adventures proved that nothing says “road trip” like a burger that asks, “Are you ready for this?”
The Dariette – Cherry Cone Chaos
There’s something charmingly retro about The Dariette—a drive-in where your order arrives with a side of nostalgia. You can bet that we weren’t about to pass up an opportunity to sample some classic treats. My chocolate-dipped Cherry cone proved that gravity has a wicked sense of humor. Chocolate dribbled, cherry juice dripped—my hands were sticky, my grin wide. In that delightful mess, our Fort Dodge dining adventures found their gooey, joyful essence.
Ardys Mae Coffee & Dessert – Morning Magic
The next morning, we slid into Ardys Mae Coffee & Dessert, where the scent of freshly brewed lattes and warm scones chased away any road-weary yawns. Each sip and bite was practically a hug—rich, creamy, crumbly, and full of comfort. As we savored our second-day revival, we felt cozy and caffeine-laced, precisely the kind of slow start we hoped for.
Sneakers Eatery & Pub – Lunch with Locals
Walking into Sneakers Eatery & Pub was like joining a lunch party you were always invited to. The place buzzed with locals swapping stories over hearty plates—mac and cheese, juicy sandwiches, fries that spoke in crisp crunches. The only thing more winning than the food was the laugh track of friendly chatter around us. Experiencing lunch here was eating like family—no strangers, just new friends with full bellies.
Gaga & Hoo – Korean Cuisine with a Robotic Twist
Dinner brought us to Gaga & Hoo, an unexpected gem, at the golf course, that twinkled upscale and inventive. Plates of Korean dishes glided to our table courtesy of a smiling robot—yes, I said robot. There they were: crispy Mandu (dumplings), homey Don Katsu (pork cutlet), hearty Bulgogi (Korean beef BBQ), and Dak-gang-jeong (fried chicken) that waltzed between savory and sweet. While planning our Fort Dodge dining adventures, I never imagined I’d say robot server, but here we are.
Ja-Mars Drive In – Homestyle Fare & Farewell
Our final meal was at Ja-Mars Drive In—hosted by the delightful Kerrie Kuiper from Visit Fort Dodge. This felt like breakfast with a dear neighbor. Pancakes that practically melted, eggs that sang “morning,” and coffee poured with care—this was homestyle happiness on a plate. And with that warm memory, I close this chapter of our Fort Dodge dining adventures. Now that I’ve shared our favorites, tell us: which stop sounds most tempting to you? Let us hear where your taste buds would take you next!
