Des Moines, Iowa – Iowa’s food scene is gaining national attention after three restaurant dishes from the state were named among the Midwest’s best for 2025. The recognition comes from Midwest Living’s annual roundup celebrating standout meals and drinks enjoyed across the region over the past year, highlighting everything from elevated comfort food to fine dining creations.
The list features three Iowa-based restaurants, all offering distinctly different culinary experiences, yet united by creativity, quality ingredients, and memorable flavors.
Incident Overview
Midwest Living recently released its curated list of “The 18 Best Things We Ate and Drank in the Midwest This Year,” showcasing dishes that left a lasting impression on editors and contributors. Among the selections, three dishes served at Iowa restaurants earned a coveted spot, reinforcing the state’s growing reputation as a Midwest food destination.
The honored dishes come from restaurants in Des Moines and Dubuque, spanning cuisines that range from French-Sushi fusion to artisan pizza and refined seasonal pasta.
Masao’s Lavender Eggs Gain National Praise
One of the most talked-about selections is the lavender eggs from Masao, a relatively new restaurant located in Des Moines’ downtown East Village. The restaurant has been open for less than a year, yet it has already captured regional acclaim.
Midwest Living Executive Editor Hannah Agran described her experience with the dish in vivid detail.
“I would never have thought I’d order a plate of scrambled eggs during a special-occasion dinner—but that’s exactly what I did at Masao,” she said. “These are not the eggs of Tuesday morning craziness, nor even the eggs of Sunday morning laziness.”
The dish features soft-set scrambled eggs infused with lavender, topped with caviar and crème fraîche, creating what Agran described as a luxurious, buttery experience. She added that the richness and uniqueness of the dish compelled her to order it again on a return visit, despite trying to explore other menu offerings.
Driftless Pizza Co.’s Tie-Dye Pizza Turns Heads
Another Iowa restaurant earning recognition is Driftless Pizza Co. in Dubuque, known for its inventive yet restrained approach to pizza. The spotlighted dish is the Tie-Dye New York-style pizza, which can also be ordered in Detroit-style.
Midwest Living Associate Art Director Erin Keeffer praised the pizza for proving that simplicity can still deliver exceptional flavor.
“The Tie Dye pizza surprised me in the best way and had me going back for more,” Keeffer noted.
She highlighted the slow-fermented dough, emphasizing its subtle, tangy flavor that stood out with every bite. Keeffer also mentioned the restaurant’s other offerings, including a Hot Honey pizza featuring garlic confit, sausage, feta, and a drizzle of hot honey, signaling Driftless Pizza Co.’s depth beyond the award-winning dish.
Oak Park’s Seasonal Pasta Makes a Lasting Impression
Rounding out the Iowa selections is Oak Park, a well-regarded restaurant in Des Moines, recognized for its campanelle with Caledonian blue prawns. The dish was featured during the restaurant’s seasonal menu and left a strong emotional impression on diners.
Senior Travel Editor Julia Sayers Gokhale shared a personal connection to the meal.
“As someone who lives in Des Moines, I feel incredibly lucky to have Oak Park in my city,” she said. “I celebrated my birthday here in October, just in time to catch the last week of their seasonal campanelle dish.”
The dish included plump Scottish prawns, handmade pasta, and a saffron beurre monté butter sauce, paired with Iowa sweet corn and crispy fried shallots. Gokhale described it as a birthday celebration she will not forget.
Why This Recognition Matters
Being featured by Midwest Living places Iowa restaurants alongside some of the most celebrated culinary destinations in the region. Such recognition not only boosts visibility for individual restaurants but also strengthens Iowa’s position on the Midwest food map. It reflects a growing appreciation for chefs who blend local ingredients with global techniques while delivering memorable dining experiences.
Conclusion
From innovative lavender-infused eggs to thoughtfully crafted pizza and elegant seasonal pasta, Iowa’s culinary talent is earning well-deserved regional acclaim. These three dishes demonstrate that standout dining experiences can be found across the state, whether in bustling downtown neighborhoods or along the Mississippi River.
As Midwest Living’s 2025 list shows, Iowa restaurants are not just keeping pace with regional food trends—they are helping define them.
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