A Taste of Grinnell

Grinnell is home to some incredible culinary entrepreneurs looking to share their passion with you. As you explore our historic town, you’ll find a variety of tastes and flavors suitable for all palettes. From birria to burgers, pasta and pancakes, fine wine and amazing donuts your taste buds are sure to be satisfied no matter your stop. Our Grinnell Eats guide has a comprehensive list of restaurants or check out our suggestions below for a progressive dinner so you’re able to hit all the Grinnell favorites. 

Happy Hour

Solera features a hand crafted selection of wines and beers from around the world. Owner Colleen’s love for wine and community brought about this establishment over 10 years ago and it continues to be a favorite for locals and visitors alike. She hand picks each selection on the menu and provides a unique dining experience right next to Central Park.

For a more exclusive vibe, Canary Underground Speakeasy takes visitors back in time. Located on the lower level of Prairie Canary on Main Street, the Speakeasy features an incredible menu of handcrafted cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Crushed Velvet (the drink with the iconic smoke bubble) and mocktails like the refreshing Tin Lizzie with mint and ginger or the Gin Joint which is a sober play on the gin and tonic. With a fully stocked bar and a variety of games available to play, your step back in time is sure to be memorable. 

Appetizer

Serving made-from-scratch Italian dishes, Pagliai’s (pronounced Pol-ee-i’s) has been a Grinnell staple for three generations. The Bruschetta or their Italian meatballs bring the fresh, homestyle taste of Italian cooking right to your table. Don’t forget a side salad, topped with “Liquid Gold” - Pagliai’s homemade ranch!

Filled with handpainted sunflowers, Los Girasoles Mexican Restaurant offers a beautiful dining experience with some of your favorite appetizers from south of the border. While salsa and bean dip are complimentary, we recommend you try the queso cheese dip, the house made ceviche or the chicken taquitos for a start of your culinary journey through the community.

Main Course

Home to the 2025 Iowa’s Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin (named by the Iowa Pork Producers), Hometown Heroes serves midwest favorites that are sure to satisfy. From the award winning Homemade Tenderloin to their gourmet burgers, sandwiches and more, Hometown treats you like family and feeds you like family! Plus everything on the menu is aptly sports-themed, and the Wall of Fame features local sports stars and memorabilia! 

Enjoy a taste of Iowa with the freshest ingredients sourced locally. Prairie Canary is a favorite on Main Street in downtown Grinnell. The Grilled Cheese and Jam is an iconic menu staple and a must try - trust us!. If you’re looking for something more traditional, we recommend the Iowa Chop or a fresh salad. Their menu features gluten free and vegan options to accommodate a variety of diets. Make sure to add a cup of Tomato Feta Soup or the Canary Salad to make your meal complete!

Desert

A Grinnell icon, Dari Barn has been a tradition for locals and visitors for over 50 years. With daily frozen yogurt flavor specials, Dole soft serve, and Frostline options in addition to chocolate and vanilla soft serve - they can satisfy your sweet tooth no matter your dietary restrictions. Try a single scoop of the yogurt of the day, a Rocky Road cyclone, the Jessie strawberry sundae or make your own with their list of toppings and mix-ins - the possibilities are endless, and sweet!

End your evening on the patio with something sweet. The Periodic Table at Hotel Grinnell has a Sweet Street dark chocolate cake with a creamy bittersweet truffle center, and deep chocolate frosting topped with a pure dark chocolate coin that's sure to bring a smile to your face. Fire pits and bags boards will ensure your evening under the stars is the perfect end to the day.