Primavera's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria promises to provide a welcome new dining option to Marshalltown's main street. The owner is the previous chef of Joe's Italian Grille (now closed). The location and service at Joe's were not ideal, but the food was always appetizing and filling. By combining the best of Joe's with a new high traffic location, perhaps Primavera's can succeed where Joe's did not.
The Looks
This new Italian option is located in a space previously occupied by a Mexican restaurant, and it certainly looks like it. Nothing much in the way of an "Italian" atmosphere, things are pretty basic. No obvious sign to identify the place from the outside. The seating is very limited, so you might not be able to get a table on a busy lunch day. Due to the tight space, you can see back into the kitchen, which is nice (looks clean).
The Cost
A lunch special with a soda will probably cost you around $10, with most dinner items going above that. Pizzas start at around $12. Not the lowest cost lunch for cheap Marshalltownians, but potentially worth it for good Italian.
The Grub
The menu is pretty similar to Joe's with a few modifications. All your typical Italian options are here, including lasagna, ravioli and manicotti. I had the chicken parmesan, which was very tastefully done, and including the spaghetti, more then most could eat in one sitting. The star of the show is probably the fresh pizza. It's the same thin crust style as we had at Joes, which is good because it's mighty tasty, but not good, because piggish potbellied folk like yours truly could eat several pizzas. No more salad bar, but the items on the lunch menu come with a small salad and fresh bread. In general, good portions, and good food.
Primavera's
10 West Main Street
Marshalltown, IA 50158
(641) 753-104011:00am to 9:00pm Monday through Thursday
11:00am to 9:30pm Friday and Saturday
Closed Sunday
Saturday, August 3, 2013
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Palm Beach Grill and Night Club
A grill / night club? What does that even mean? No comments on the night club side of the business here, but plenty to say about the grub side of things.
The Looks
Located in the building previously known as Joe's / Memories / others, it seems another local business man is willing to roll the dice on this off-the-beaten-path location. It looks pretty much the same on the outside, but the interior has been completely remodeled. There is a very modern, industrial sheet metal look. Similar to a Chipotle Mexican grill (but less corporate). As you walk in, you are greeted by a burrito/taco bar, with all fixings. The seating area is spacious and comfy. And they are quick with the service.
The Cost
Pretty standard for this type of place. All the main entire menu items run $6.00 (for you vegetarian and chicken eaters), to $6.55 (for you big spender beef and pork types). A soda will cost an additional $1.60, chips and salsa will cost another $2, and chips and guacamole will be another $3. Not the cheapest lunch in town, but pretty reasonable.
The Grub
If you're indecisive in high pressure restaurant situations, this menu is for you. Not too many many decisions to make before you've got chow in your hands. Choose between one of the 4 following options: Burrito, Tacos, Bowl, or Salad. Then pick Veggie, Chicken, Steak, Beef, or Pork. Then select toppings to your content. You've been to Pancheros or Chipotle right? Similar stuff. When this corpulent individual dinned here, the meat was of a good quality, and the toppings were plentiful. Chips and salsa were acceptable. Soda was well mixed (right amount of sugary syrup). You'd think the last thing Marshalltown needs is another Mexican place, but the Palm Beach Grill fills a needed Niche (if you ever remember to visit that part of town).
Palm Beach Grill and Night Club
1010 W. Lincoln Way
Marshalltown, IA 50158
(641) 328-1043
Hours:
Sunday - Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday - Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Palm-Beach-Grill-nightclub/373601632702123
The Looks
Located in the building previously known as Joe's / Memories / others, it seems another local business man is willing to roll the dice on this off-the-beaten-path location. It looks pretty much the same on the outside, but the interior has been completely remodeled. There is a very modern, industrial sheet metal look. Similar to a Chipotle Mexican grill (but less corporate). As you walk in, you are greeted by a burrito/taco bar, with all fixings. The seating area is spacious and comfy. And they are quick with the service.
The Cost
Pretty standard for this type of place. All the main entire menu items run $6.00 (for you vegetarian and chicken eaters), to $6.55 (for you big spender beef and pork types). A soda will cost an additional $1.60, chips and salsa will cost another $2, and chips and guacamole will be another $3. Not the cheapest lunch in town, but pretty reasonable.
The Grub
If you're indecisive in high pressure restaurant situations, this menu is for you. Not too many many decisions to make before you've got chow in your hands. Choose between one of the 4 following options: Burrito, Tacos, Bowl, or Salad. Then pick Veggie, Chicken, Steak, Beef, or Pork. Then select toppings to your content. You've been to Pancheros or Chipotle right? Similar stuff. When this corpulent individual dinned here, the meat was of a good quality, and the toppings were plentiful. Chips and salsa were acceptable. Soda was well mixed (right amount of sugary syrup). You'd think the last thing Marshalltown needs is another Mexican place, but the Palm Beach Grill fills a needed Niche (if you ever remember to visit that part of town).
Palm Beach Grill and Night Club
1010 W. Lincoln Way
Marshalltown, IA 50158
(641) 328-1043
Hours:
Sunday - Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday - Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Palm-Beach-Grill-nightclub/373601632702123
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Ocean City Chinese Restaurant
Located in the ex-Chalet gift shop on main street, Ocean City has been tempting us with a new culinary option for months. Now that the doors are finally open, how does this latest Chinese place stack up?
The Looks
The remodeled Chalet building is nice. A week attempt at creating a chinese atmosphere has been done, but nothing very elaborate or fancy (this is Marshalltown Iowa remember?). The seating seems a little cramped for a corpulent individual such as yours truly. On my lunch trip the service was slow, but hopefully that's just due to the opening rush.
The Cost
Lunch specials run from $5.55 to $6.25 for a good sized entree, soup and your choice of an egg roll or Crab Rangoon. Probably One of the better lunch deals around. Dinner is a little more costly and runs from $8 to $12, but with many more options.
The Grub
The typical list of Chinese favorites. Chicken, Beef, Pork, and Shrimp, each drenched in the sauce of your choice. Many items claim to be hot and spicy, however the Szechwan chicken this reviewer had certainly was not. All the other favorites such as Lo mein, Chow mein, and Egg Foo Young are available as well. The food seems to be a step up in quality from your other local Chinese options.
Ocean City Chinese Restaurant
5 West Main Street
Marshalltown, IA 50158
(641) 752-1508
Hours: 11:00am - 9:30pm
The Looks
The remodeled Chalet building is nice. A week attempt at creating a chinese atmosphere has been done, but nothing very elaborate or fancy (this is Marshalltown Iowa remember?). The seating seems a little cramped for a corpulent individual such as yours truly. On my lunch trip the service was slow, but hopefully that's just due to the opening rush.
The Cost
Lunch specials run from $5.55 to $6.25 for a good sized entree, soup and your choice of an egg roll or Crab Rangoon. Probably One of the better lunch deals around. Dinner is a little more costly and runs from $8 to $12, but with many more options.
The Grub
The typical list of Chinese favorites. Chicken, Beef, Pork, and Shrimp, each drenched in the sauce of your choice. Many items claim to be hot and spicy, however the Szechwan chicken this reviewer had certainly was not. All the other favorites such as Lo mein, Chow mein, and Egg Foo Young are available as well. The food seems to be a step up in quality from your other local Chinese options.
Ocean City Chinese Restaurant
5 West Main Street
Marshalltown, IA 50158
(641) 752-1508
Hours: 11:00am - 9:30pm
Monday, January 10, 2011
Little Caesars
Ah K-Mart, that stalwart of cheap retail goods. If you've been to the Marshalltown K-Mart in the last decade, you'll know it's usually empty and slightly rundown. Most shoppers have abandoned it for Wal-Mart. However this K-Mart has something Wally World does not. A Little Caesars pizza station. Who wouldn't want to eat at the same place they buy underwear?
The Looks
Nothing says fine dinning like the inside of an old K-Mart. It certainly feels strange (or good?) eating your lunch/dinner while watching women shop for cloths. There are tables and booths in the cordoned off eating area, and chances are they won't be clean. If you come around lunch time, expect high-school kids.
The Cost
The cheapest carryout pizza you'll get in town, a large, 1 topping goes for the paltry amount of just $5. Although most people will spring for the $5 - 1 topping pie, additional toppings are cheap, and so are the sides. So much food for so little money, they know what a hungry man wants.
The Grub
Not the worlds best pizza but not the worst. A hungry man will certainly leave satisfied. Other highlights include the famous crazy bread which drips and oozes with delicious grease. Thumbs down for making us purchase the dipping sauce. And of course this Little Caesars is integrated with the standard K-Mart snack bar, so there are Icee frozen treats, popcorn, etc.
Little Caesars
1720 S Center Street, Marshalltown, IA 50158
(641) 753-3270
The Looks
Nothing says fine dinning like the inside of an old K-Mart. It certainly feels strange (or good?) eating your lunch/dinner while watching women shop for cloths. There are tables and booths in the cordoned off eating area, and chances are they won't be clean. If you come around lunch time, expect high-school kids.
The Cost
The cheapest carryout pizza you'll get in town, a large, 1 topping goes for the paltry amount of just $5. Although most people will spring for the $5 - 1 topping pie, additional toppings are cheap, and so are the sides. So much food for so little money, they know what a hungry man wants.
The Grub
Not the worlds best pizza but not the worst. A hungry man will certainly leave satisfied. Other highlights include the famous crazy bread which drips and oozes with delicious grease. Thumbs down for making us purchase the dipping sauce. And of course this Little Caesars is integrated with the standard K-Mart snack bar, so there are Icee frozen treats, popcorn, etc.
Little Caesars
1720 S Center Street, Marshalltown, IA 50158
(641) 753-3270
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Stone's Restaurant
It's closed, it's open, it's closed, it's changed owners. Who knows what's all going on with this famous Marshalltown eatery. But your humble hungry glutton of a food reviewer happened to stop by one day, and found the open sign up, and the door unlocked. Can this storied restaurant live up to the legend?
The Looks
Credit to the new owner, the inside seems to have been remodeled with a modern yet respectful look. Gone is the dirty old salad bar and cluttered interior. Wood covers the walls, and real table cloths cover the tables. In general, an inviting atmosphere. The old chairs seems a little scary for a mightily massed individual, but they seemed to hold up (this time).
The Cost
Cost is about on par with local competitors Applebee's and the Treemont Grill. There's not much over $10, and plenty of food for your money. But no great deals.
The Grub
Self-described as home cooked Midwestern style meals, the food is about average. Nothing to excite your taste buds here. I had the lasagna, which was respectable, but lacked zing. Other options include Fried chicken, sirloin steak, beef and noodles, breaded cod, fish and chips, tenderloins, Rubens, burgers, chicken salad, tuna salad, and the usual entree salads. In general, if you're collecting social security, you'll leave here happy. Gone is the famous mile high chiffon pie, to which this customer says good riddance.
Stone's Restaurant
507 South 3rd Ave, Marshalltown, IA 50158
The Looks
Credit to the new owner, the inside seems to have been remodeled with a modern yet respectful look. Gone is the dirty old salad bar and cluttered interior. Wood covers the walls, and real table cloths cover the tables. In general, an inviting atmosphere. The old chairs seems a little scary for a mightily massed individual, but they seemed to hold up (this time).
The Cost
Cost is about on par with local competitors Applebee's and the Treemont Grill. There's not much over $10, and plenty of food for your money. But no great deals.
The Grub
Self-described as home cooked Midwestern style meals, the food is about average. Nothing to excite your taste buds here. I had the lasagna, which was respectable, but lacked zing. Other options include Fried chicken, sirloin steak, beef and noodles, breaded cod, fish and chips, tenderloins, Rubens, burgers, chicken salad, tuna salad, and the usual entree salads. In general, if you're collecting social security, you'll leave here happy. Gone is the famous mile high chiffon pie, to which this customer says good riddance.
Stone's Restaurant
507 South 3rd Ave, Marshalltown, IA 50158
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
KFC Taco Bell
This strange fast food love child, sired by Colonel Sanders and born in a pool of grease, somehow combines the standard KFC menu with a Taco Bell. The unholy result is the ultimate selection of bad-for-you awesomeness.
The Looks
Does anyone actually go inside this type of place? If so, you'll find a recently remodeled interior. Mostly clean, with a modern colorful look. There are big windows, which keep the dinning area well lit, which could be a plus or a minus. The booths are awfully tight for the horizontally gifted.
The Cost
About as cheap as you'll get for prepared food. The Taco Bell side has a value menu with several items at 89 cents, and incredibly, a few $2 meal deals. If fried chicken is more your forté, the KFC part of the menu also has a value menu starting at 99 cents going up to $2. Whatever you order, you'll most likely get more food then you can eat for $5 to $8 (and if you can eat more, you'll leave not respecting yourself).
The Grub
As noted above, there is a lot to choose from here. There is of course the legendary fried chicken with the closely guarded blend of 11 herbs and spices. And all the classic crack cocaine addictive sides such as potato wedges, mash potatoes and gravy, green beans and biscuits. Also snack wraps, snacker sandwiches, popcorn chicken, and hot wings. Anything that can be wrapped in a burrito is also for sale, although this gluten's preference for Mexican leans towards Taco Johns. The Taco Bell side also has the Big Value Box ($5 box, it rocks), the tasty new chicken flatbread sandwich, and a Hungry favorite, the spicy volcano taco/burrito/nachos.
KFC Taco Bell
3007 S Center St, Marshalltown, IA 50158-4713
(641) 752-7766
The Looks
Does anyone actually go inside this type of place? If so, you'll find a recently remodeled interior. Mostly clean, with a modern colorful look. There are big windows, which keep the dinning area well lit, which could be a plus or a minus. The booths are awfully tight for the horizontally gifted.
The Cost
About as cheap as you'll get for prepared food. The Taco Bell side has a value menu with several items at 89 cents, and incredibly, a few $2 meal deals. If fried chicken is more your forté, the KFC part of the menu also has a value menu starting at 99 cents going up to $2. Whatever you order, you'll most likely get more food then you can eat for $5 to $8 (and if you can eat more, you'll leave not respecting yourself).
The Grub
As noted above, there is a lot to choose from here. There is of course the legendary fried chicken with the closely guarded blend of 11 herbs and spices. And all the classic crack cocaine addictive sides such as potato wedges, mash potatoes and gravy, green beans and biscuits. Also snack wraps, snacker sandwiches, popcorn chicken, and hot wings. Anything that can be wrapped in a burrito is also for sale, although this gluten's preference for Mexican leans towards Taco Johns. The Taco Bell side also has the Big Value Box ($5 box, it rocks), the tasty new chicken flatbread sandwich, and a Hungry favorite, the spicy volcano taco/burrito/nachos.
KFC Taco Bell
3007 S Center St, Marshalltown, IA 50158-4713
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Legends American Grill
Anticipation. This place has been under construction for almost an entire year. It promises to be the new Marshalltown mecca for the gluttonous gorging horde. Does it stand a chance of living up to the hype?
The Looks
The place is essentially divided into 2 parts, a cozy dinning room area with a fireplace, and a flat screen TV infested sports bar. Everything is quite nice, brand new and tastefully decorated. Did I mention all the TVs? This is definably the place to watch your fav sporting event in Marshalltown. And there is a large patio to enjoy the temperate Iowa weather.
The Cost
A little on the pricey end of the spectrum. You'll not be able to get out of the building for under $10, even for lunch. However the portions are certainly large enough to satisfy most obese Americans (yours truly excluded). Worth mentioning are several reports that the service is sub-par.
The Grub
An excellent selection, you're sure to find something that you like. All the usual suspects appear here, including gut buster salads, deep-fat-fried-anything appetizers, Burgers with hokey toppings, sandwiches, pasta, steak and seafood. They make a big deal out of their "Legendary Ribs". Get it? So far the items I've tried (buffalo chicken sandwich and turkey cheddar melt) have been somewhat bland. But there's bound to be some gems on this mammoth menu. Also the massive bar has more different types of beer on tap then anywhere else I know in town.
Legends American Grill
2902 South Center Street, 641-752-1237
Lunch, Dinner
The Looks
The place is essentially divided into 2 parts, a cozy dinning room area with a fireplace, and a flat screen TV infested sports bar. Everything is quite nice, brand new and tastefully decorated. Did I mention all the TVs? This is definably the place to watch your fav sporting event in Marshalltown. And there is a large patio to enjoy the temperate Iowa weather.
The Cost
A little on the pricey end of the spectrum. You'll not be able to get out of the building for under $10, even for lunch. However the portions are certainly large enough to satisfy most obese Americans (yours truly excluded). Worth mentioning are several reports that the service is sub-par.
The Grub
An excellent selection, you're sure to find something that you like. All the usual suspects appear here, including gut buster salads, deep-fat-fried-anything appetizers, Burgers with hokey toppings, sandwiches, pasta, steak and seafood. They make a big deal out of their "Legendary Ribs". Get it? So far the items I've tried (buffalo chicken sandwich and turkey cheddar melt) have been somewhat bland. But there's bound to be some gems on this mammoth menu. Also the massive bar has more different types of beer on tap then anywhere else I know in town.
Legends American Grill
2902 South Center Street, 641-752-1237
Lunch, Dinner
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
China Buffet
As a hungry Marshalltownian, some of the best 4 words you can hear are: "All You Can Eat". The newly opened China Buffet on Center Street delivers on the promise.
The Looks
Interestingly, the building that China Buffet occupies was previously used for... a Chinese restaurant. Must have made the remodeling job cheap. The dinning room is pretty standard. Booths and tables, walls are plain. Funky chandeliers don't really fit... we're not here for elegance, we're here to shovel food in our pie hole. Or should I say egg roll hole.
The Cost
The menu does offer standard dishes made to order, ranging from $6 to $8. But let's be honest. If you're coming here, it's for the buffet. And from a value point of view, this buffet is great. Only $8.25 for the post 4:00pm dinner buffet. But the real steal is the lunch buffet. All you can eat for $5.99! So much food, and only one stomach!
The Grub
The buffet selection contains surprisingly few selections of traditional Chinese food. A few chicken dishes and a few beef dishes. The General Tso's chicken was tough. There's a small salad bar, and fresh fruit. The egg drop and hot and sour soup come recomended. The buffet has a large amount of non-chinese appetisers such as chicken wings, onion rings, potato wedges, and garlic bread. And of course the more traditional appetizers, such as egg rolls, crab ragoons, and pot stickers.
China Buffet
2500 S Center St #A, (641) 753-3545
The Looks
Interestingly, the building that China Buffet occupies was previously used for... a Chinese restaurant. Must have made the remodeling job cheap. The dinning room is pretty standard. Booths and tables, walls are plain. Funky chandeliers don't really fit... we're not here for elegance, we're here to shovel food in our pie hole. Or should I say egg roll hole.
The Cost
The menu does offer standard dishes made to order, ranging from $6 to $8. But let's be honest. If you're coming here, it's for the buffet. And from a value point of view, this buffet is great. Only $8.25 for the post 4:00pm dinner buffet. But the real steal is the lunch buffet. All you can eat for $5.99! So much food, and only one stomach!
The Grub
The buffet selection contains surprisingly few selections of traditional Chinese food. A few chicken dishes and a few beef dishes. The General Tso's chicken was tough. There's a small salad bar, and fresh fruit. The egg drop and hot and sour soup come recomended. The buffet has a large amount of non-chinese appetisers such as chicken wings, onion rings, potato wedges, and garlic bread. And of course the more traditional appetizers, such as egg rolls, crab ragoons, and pot stickers.
China Buffet
2500 S Center St #A, (641) 753-3545
Friday, May 30, 2008
Culver's
Is it fast food, or a restaurant? Culvers (located off of old Highway 30) makes an attempt to act as both. With prices this cheap, one could load up on grub for not a lot of dough.
The Looks
Typical fast food dining area, with tables and booths. It's always crowded around lunch, mostly with older people. It seems word has gotten out about the senior citizen discount. To combat the large crowds, Culvers seems to be pretty good about employing a small army behind the counter. They maybe a little slow getting you the food, but they are quick to take your order.
The Cost
Prices are not bad. Long gone are the days of a $2.99 value meal (or basket as Culvers call them). But most everything on the menu can be purchased for $5 to $7. And they let you purchase a sandwich by itself for a reasonable price, which I like. Some fast food places will overprice the sandwich (for example the sandwich costs $4 and the meal costs $5), which leads you to get the "value meal" even if you don't want it.
The Grub
A surprisingly large variety of grub for a fast food place. They have chicken, Soup, Salads, Pork Tenderloins, Rubens, Hot dogs, Shrimp, Fish, and of course their signature butter burger. Who knows what they do to this hamburger to make it so good, but it works. The typical value basket consists of a sandwich, crinkle cut fries and a soda. The Fries can be substituted for any number of sides, for example a salad. I had the Turkey sourdough BLT, which was just so-so. But I feel I did get my money's worth. Of course they also have a large selection of Custard frozen treats, in case your caloric intake wasn't exceeded by the main meal.
Culver's of Marshalltown
16 Iowa Ave W, (641) 753-9525
The Looks
Typical fast food dining area, with tables and booths. It's always crowded around lunch, mostly with older people. It seems word has gotten out about the senior citizen discount. To combat the large crowds, Culvers seems to be pretty good about employing a small army behind the counter. They maybe a little slow getting you the food, but they are quick to take your order.
The Cost
Prices are not bad. Long gone are the days of a $2.99 value meal (or basket as Culvers call them). But most everything on the menu can be purchased for $5 to $7. And they let you purchase a sandwich by itself for a reasonable price, which I like. Some fast food places will overprice the sandwich (for example the sandwich costs $4 and the meal costs $5), which leads you to get the "value meal" even if you don't want it.
The Grub
A surprisingly large variety of grub for a fast food place. They have chicken, Soup, Salads, Pork Tenderloins, Rubens, Hot dogs, Shrimp, Fish, and of course their signature butter burger. Who knows what they do to this hamburger to make it so good, but it works. The typical value basket consists of a sandwich, crinkle cut fries and a soda. The Fries can be substituted for any number of sides, for example a salad. I had the Turkey sourdough BLT, which was just so-so. But I feel I did get my money's worth. Of course they also have a large selection of Custard frozen treats, in case your caloric intake wasn't exceeded by the main meal.
Culver's of Marshalltown
16 Iowa Ave W, (641) 753-9525
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Mexico Antiguo
Another fine main street establishment, Mexico Antiguo lures in customers with promises of cheap margaritas and tasty Mexican food. But it has a lot of competition in this town, can it deliver?
The Looks
Well decorated, lots of nice Mexican trinkets and scary paintings on the walls. The chairs seem to be made from wicker, which makes an obese, hungry man a little uneasy. But in general, a festive atmosphere throughout.
The Cost
Very reasonable prices. You can get lunch specials for under 5 bucks, and just about any combination of Mexican food for 6-7 bucks. And there are a lot of combinations.
The Grub
They bring a basket of tortialla chips and salsa out to your table while you decide what to order from the menu. The food is what one would expect, combine a tortilla with meat, cheese, and some sauce in various combinations, and get various types of Mexican food. Tacos, burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas, chili rellenos etc. I had the lunch enchiladas, which while not as good as those at El Portal or La Caretta, where still very satisfying.
Mexico Antiguo
25 West Main Street, 641-752-6666
The Looks
Well decorated, lots of nice Mexican trinkets and scary paintings on the walls. The chairs seem to be made from wicker, which makes an obese, hungry man a little uneasy. But in general, a festive atmosphere throughout.
The Cost
Very reasonable prices. You can get lunch specials for under 5 bucks, and just about any combination of Mexican food for 6-7 bucks. And there are a lot of combinations.
The Grub
They bring a basket of tortialla chips and salsa out to your table while you decide what to order from the menu. The food is what one would expect, combine a tortilla with meat, cheese, and some sauce in various combinations, and get various types of Mexican food. Tacos, burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas, chili rellenos etc. I had the lunch enchiladas, which while not as good as those at El Portal or La Caretta, where still very satisfying.
Mexico Antiguo
25 West Main Street, 641-752-6666
Friday, December 14, 2007
Field's Bar and Grill
Fields is actually divided into two restaurants. Upstairs is the steakhouse with salad bar, and downstairs it the bar and grill. The word "steakhouse" could imply a certain level of class, something I try to avoid. So let's check out the downstairs.
The Looks
This place looks pretty much like a bar. Or a wannabe Applebee's with misc. crap all over the wall. There's a spinning boat propeller thing hanging from the ceiling... weird. But the booths are comfy as can be. There's TVs all around, so you can avoid talking to whoever you brought with.
The Cost
There a sign in the windows saying the place has lunch specials as low as $4.79. There is one item on the menu at that price, and that's the plane Jane hamburger. Most everything you'd actually want is going to be around 7 to 9 dollars. Pizzas will run you $11 and up.
The Grub
What you'd expect. Burgers, fries, onion rings, chicken sandwiches, shrimp, salads, soups. I had the hot club on a tasty roll. It was pretty good. They have these things called Feild's Chips, kinda like kettle chips. Avoid them. The pizzas are damn tasty, but are probably more then a normal person could eat.
Field's Bar and Grill
2013 South Center Street, 641-753-1099
Lunch, Dinner (Mon.-Sat.)
Update (September 2009)
Sadly, Fields closed it's doors in September. Another one bites the dust.
The Looks
This place looks pretty much like a bar. Or a wannabe Applebee's with misc. crap all over the wall. There's a spinning boat propeller thing hanging from the ceiling... weird. But the booths are comfy as can be. There's TVs all around, so you can avoid talking to whoever you brought with.
The Cost
There a sign in the windows saying the place has lunch specials as low as $4.79. There is one item on the menu at that price, and that's the plane Jane hamburger. Most everything you'd actually want is going to be around 7 to 9 dollars. Pizzas will run you $11 and up.
The Grub
What you'd expect. Burgers, fries, onion rings, chicken sandwiches, shrimp, salads, soups. I had the hot club on a tasty roll. It was pretty good. They have these things called Feild's Chips, kinda like kettle chips. Avoid them. The pizzas are damn tasty, but are probably more then a normal person could eat.
Field's Bar and Grill
2013 South Center Street, 641-753-1099
Lunch, Dinner (Mon.-Sat.)
Update (September 2009)
Sadly, Fields closed it's doors in September. Another one bites the dust.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Bonanza
Bonanza pretends to be a steakhouse, but let's be honest with ourselves. This all-you-can-eat buffet exists to see how much food one can cram down your pie hole and not hate yourself on the way out. And for me, that's quite a lot.
The Looks
The place looks so-so. Mildly appropriate non offensive decorations throughout. For some reason, old people tend to hangout here. OMG, they have one of those claw machines where you try to grab stuffed animals! I hate those things.
The Cost
The price for the lunch buffet is around 6-7 bucks. Pretty reasonable for all you can eat. I believe the price goes up a few bucks for the dinner buffet. As if the food somehow got more expensive because a couple of hours have past. A Soda will run you a pricey 2 dollars. Also, bring money for the claw machine.
The Grub
Can't comment on the steak. But the buffet is usual buffet food. Salad bar, fried chicken, mashed potatoes, soups, lasagna, ham, green beans, bad pizza, desert bar... you know the drill. In general, most items are pretty bland. But the beauty of a buffet is there's a lot of different stuff up there. So there's bound to be something you want. Find it and pig out.
Bonanza
2902 South Center Street, 641-752-3686
Update (September 2008)
Unfortunately, the Marshalltown Bonanza closed this summer.
The Looks
The place looks so-so. Mildly appropriate non offensive decorations throughout. For some reason, old people tend to hangout here. OMG, they have one of those claw machines where you try to grab stuffed animals! I hate those things.
The Cost
The price for the lunch buffet is around 6-7 bucks. Pretty reasonable for all you can eat. I believe the price goes up a few bucks for the dinner buffet. As if the food somehow got more expensive because a couple of hours have past. A Soda will run you a pricey 2 dollars. Also, bring money for the claw machine.
The Grub
Can't comment on the steak. But the buffet is usual buffet food. Salad bar, fried chicken, mashed potatoes, soups, lasagna, ham, green beans, bad pizza, desert bar... you know the drill. In general, most items are pretty bland. But the beauty of a buffet is there's a lot of different stuff up there. So there's bound to be something you want. Find it and pig out.
Bonanza
2902 South Center Street, 641-752-3686
Update (September 2008)
Unfortunately, the Marshalltown Bonanza closed this summer.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
El Portal
Tucked in next to Kmart in a weird pseudo-mall is the Mexican restaurant El Portal. It seems this place is always busy during lunch. Let's see if the food justifies the crowds.
The Looks
Typical lame Mexican decorations. Tables and chairs are simple, and the booths are uncomfortably small. And they pack people in. Not an obese-friendly atmosphere. But the service is fast. And if they can bring me food fast, all else is forgiven.
The Cost
They have lunch specials around $5 and any possible combination of burritos, enchiladas, quesadilla, fajitas, etc. for 6 or 7 American pesos. They have some expensive items on the menu, but in general, most selections seem to be an excellent value.
The Grub
Exact same menu and food as wonderful, La Carreta, on old highway 30. That means excellent all you can eat chips and salsa. I had the lunch chalupa. What's the difference between a chalupa and a soft shell taco or an enchiladas? Don't know, Don't care. It was delicious.
El Portal
1716 South Center Street, 641-752-0011
The Looks
Typical lame Mexican decorations. Tables and chairs are simple, and the booths are uncomfortably small. And they pack people in. Not an obese-friendly atmosphere. But the service is fast. And if they can bring me food fast, all else is forgiven.
The Cost
They have lunch specials around $5 and any possible combination of burritos, enchiladas, quesadilla, fajitas, etc. for 6 or 7 American pesos. They have some expensive items on the menu, but in general, most selections seem to be an excellent value.
The Grub
Exact same menu and food as wonderful, La Carreta, on old highway 30. That means excellent all you can eat chips and salsa. I had the lunch chalupa. What's the difference between a chalupa and a soft shell taco or an enchiladas? Don't know, Don't care. It was delicious.
El Portal
1716 South Center Street, 641-752-0011
Friday, September 28, 2007
Applebee's
Got a case of the Monday's in Marshalltown? Interested in some pizza poppers, shrimp shooters of extreme fajitas? Maybe just coffee? Applebee's on Center Street is your best bet for bar and grill food.
The Looks:
"People can get a burger anywhere. They come to Chotchkie's for the attitude and the atmosphere". The same could be said of Applebee's. Although the servers do not seems to be wearing any pieces of flair, there are posters and nick-nacks all over the walls. Bonus points to Applebee's for including several pieces of local Marshalltown memorabilia.
The Cost:
Expensive. There's little chance you're walking out of here for less then 12 bucks. Most menu items range from 7 to 10 dollars. Toss in a 2 dollar soda and a reasonable tip and you'll be hurting. It might be worth mentioning they have lunch combos, which you can get a soup and salad for $5.99 or a soup and sandwich for $6.99. But you'll leave hungry.
The Grub:
All the usual suspects on the menu. Burgers, chicken sandwiches, wraps, huge salads. Some tasty dinner options include steaks, ribs, grilled fish, shrimp and pastas. I enjoyed the roasted turkey and Bacon Ciabatta with seasoned fries. I wasn't given enough fries, but the sandwich was good. Friends have told me in general that Applebee's doesn't always give enough food for the money. The Marshalltown location seems to be better then most in this regard, I did leave mildly satisfied.
Applebee's Neighborhood Bar and Grill
3101 South Center Street, 641-753-7755
The Looks:
"People can get a burger anywhere. They come to Chotchkie's for the attitude and the atmosphere". The same could be said of Applebee's. Although the servers do not seems to be wearing any pieces of flair, there are posters and nick-nacks all over the walls. Bonus points to Applebee's for including several pieces of local Marshalltown memorabilia.
The Cost:
Expensive. There's little chance you're walking out of here for less then 12 bucks. Most menu items range from 7 to 10 dollars. Toss in a 2 dollar soda and a reasonable tip and you'll be hurting. It might be worth mentioning they have lunch combos, which you can get a soup and salad for $5.99 or a soup and sandwich for $6.99. But you'll leave hungry.
The Grub:
All the usual suspects on the menu. Burgers, chicken sandwiches, wraps, huge salads. Some tasty dinner options include steaks, ribs, grilled fish, shrimp and pastas. I enjoyed the roasted turkey and Bacon Ciabatta with seasoned fries. I wasn't given enough fries, but the sandwich was good. Friends have told me in general that Applebee's doesn't always give enough food for the money. The Marshalltown location seems to be better then most in this regard, I did leave mildly satisfied.
Applebee's Neighborhood Bar and Grill
3101 South Center Street, 641-753-7755
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Sub City
Sub City on main street is a Marshalltown eats at their best. Is it legal to sell this much good food for so little? I think I actually left full and satisfied.
The Looks:
Bawah! Fake wood paneling. I hate fake wood paneling. It's an older establishment with Marilyn Monroe and Sinatra posters attempting to create an atmosphere. The booths and chairs are not comfortable. But there's always a huge line at lunch. Must be the food.
The Cost:
The cost is damn cheap. $3 to $5 for a "half" sandwich, and double that for a whole. What I really like is they don't try to sell you a combo meal you don't want. I don't think they even have combo meals. So if you just want to sandwich, it's cool, that's what you get. Soda is 70 cents for a small, 90 cents for a large.
The Grub:
First let's define what a half sandwich means. This ain't your boyfriend's 6 inch subway. This is 8 to 10 inches packed with meat. They slice the meat and cheese off of blocks with a deli slicer right in front of you. And they don't skimp on it either. You then move down the line and select toppings of your choice. The bread is brought in fresh from Hy-Vee every morning. The end product is marvelous. So much better then a sandwich from Subway or Blimpies. You need to eat here.
Sub City
8 East Main Street, 641-752-1375
The Looks:
Bawah! Fake wood paneling. I hate fake wood paneling. It's an older establishment with Marilyn Monroe and Sinatra posters attempting to create an atmosphere. The booths and chairs are not comfortable. But there's always a huge line at lunch. Must be the food.
The Cost:
The cost is damn cheap. $3 to $5 for a "half" sandwich, and double that for a whole. What I really like is they don't try to sell you a combo meal you don't want. I don't think they even have combo meals. So if you just want to sandwich, it's cool, that's what you get. Soda is 70 cents for a small, 90 cents for a large.
The Grub:
First let's define what a half sandwich means. This ain't your boyfriend's 6 inch subway. This is 8 to 10 inches packed with meat. They slice the meat and cheese off of blocks with a deli slicer right in front of you. And they don't skimp on it either. You then move down the line and select toppings of your choice. The bread is brought in fresh from Hy-Vee every morning. The end product is marvelous. So much better then a sandwich from Subway or Blimpies. You need to eat here.
Sub City
8 East Main Street, 641-752-1375
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Cecil's Cafe
A small cafe, located on old highway 30, Cecil's looks to be a favorite stop for truckers. The highway may have moved, but Cecil's is still there, still delivering grease and goodness. Could such a tiny roadside cafe satisfy such a hungry man?
The Looks:
Old school dinner. They even have pie under glass on the counter. The chairs and tables are small. Not made for modern obese Americans, like myself. Old newspaper articles and the like hang on the walls, giving you a feel of Marshalltown history. The clientele are, well, hopefully they have their last will and testament made up.
The Cost:
Pretty reasonable. Most sandwiches and burgers are $2 to $4. Fries and onion rings are an additional $2. Sodas are a buck.
The Grub:
I had a grilled ham and cheese sandwich and fries. The fries where made from scratch, cut from the potato and bathed in grease. The soda glass was so small, it was probably less then a can, and refills were slow. It was like I had to savor the drink, because there wasn't much of it. The sandwich was tasty, if small. Next time I go, I'll get two sandwiches.
Cecil's Café
13 Iowa Avenue East, 641-753-9796
Breakfast, Lunch
Dinner on Wed. and Fri. only
The Looks:
Old school dinner. They even have pie under glass on the counter. The chairs and tables are small. Not made for modern obese Americans, like myself. Old newspaper articles and the like hang on the walls, giving you a feel of Marshalltown history. The clientele are, well, hopefully they have their last will and testament made up.
The Cost:
Pretty reasonable. Most sandwiches and burgers are $2 to $4. Fries and onion rings are an additional $2. Sodas are a buck.
The Grub:
I had a grilled ham and cheese sandwich and fries. The fries where made from scratch, cut from the potato and bathed in grease. The soda glass was so small, it was probably less then a can, and refills were slow. It was like I had to savor the drink, because there wasn't much of it. The sandwich was tasty, if small. Next time I go, I'll get two sandwiches.
Cecil's Café
13 Iowa Avenue East, 641-753-9796
Breakfast, Lunch
Dinner on Wed. and Fri. only
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
La Carreta
Hidden away on Iowa Ave. (old highway 30) is a gem of a Mexican restaurant known as La Carrara (or "The Cart" for you gringos). A Mexican Restaurant in Marshalltown you say? I know! I'm as surprised as you. But more hungry.
The Looks:
Holy crap, is this place a pizza hut?! It seems it used to be. They've done a good job of Mexicanizing it however. Nothing too fancy, just cheap decorations on the well. The service is fast and friendly.
The Cost:
They've got a lunch menu with several meals as low as $5. Everything else is very reasonable. There's nothing on the menu much more then $10. There are additional specials every day.
The Grub:
First the chips and salsa. Best. Chips. Ever. Same with the salsa. I had the lunch enchiladas and they were divine. I think the ranchero sauce does the trick. The beans and rice are average. And all the usual Mexican selections exist of course such as fajitas, combination platters, desserts, and margaritas.
La Carreta
308 East Iowa Avenue, 641-754-1700
Lunch, Dinner - 7 days a week
The Looks:
Holy crap, is this place a pizza hut?! It seems it used to be. They've done a good job of Mexicanizing it however. Nothing too fancy, just cheap decorations on the well. The service is fast and friendly.
The Cost:
They've got a lunch menu with several meals as low as $5. Everything else is very reasonable. There's nothing on the menu much more then $10. There are additional specials every day.
The Grub:
First the chips and salsa. Best. Chips. Ever. Same with the salsa. I had the lunch enchiladas and they were divine. I think the ranchero sauce does the trick. The beans and rice are average. And all the usual Mexican selections exist of course such as fajitas, combination platters, desserts, and margaritas.
La Carreta
308 East Iowa Avenue, 641-754-1700
Lunch, Dinner - 7 days a week
Monday, August 13, 2007
Memories
Head out of town on Lincoln Way, and you'll unknowingly pass Memories Banquet and Reception Hall. It's a nondescript white building where people apparently have wedding receptions and the like. Boo weddings. Hooray food.
The Looks:
Feels like you're eating lunch at a wedding reception. Probably because people do that here. Probably accounts for the sweet looking, well stocked bar. And the crappy folding tables.
The Cost:
The buffet will run you around $6.50 (drink not included) and most of the menu items could be had for under $7. Not a bad value.
The Grub:
Memories has a simple all you can eat lunch buffet. Or if you wish, the menu contains simple lunch items, such as burgers, chicken, soups and salad. I ordered the club sandwich with fries. The sandwich was passable, but the generic crinkle cut fries were blah. The onion rings looked to be the better choice. In general, I left somewhat unsatisfied, but will return.
Memories Banquet and Reception Hall
1010 West Lincoln Way, 641-753-4693
Lunch (Mon.-Fri. 11-2 p.m.)
Dinner (Fri. 5-10 p.m.)
The Looks:
Feels like you're eating lunch at a wedding reception. Probably because people do that here. Probably accounts for the sweet looking, well stocked bar. And the crappy folding tables.
The Cost:
The buffet will run you around $6.50 (drink not included) and most of the menu items could be had for under $7. Not a bad value.
The Grub:
Memories has a simple all you can eat lunch buffet. Or if you wish, the menu contains simple lunch items, such as burgers, chicken, soups and salad. I ordered the club sandwich with fries. The sandwich was passable, but the generic crinkle cut fries were blah. The onion rings looked to be the better choice. In general, I left somewhat unsatisfied, but will return.
Memories Banquet and Reception Hall
1010 West Lincoln Way, 641-753-4693
Lunch (Mon.-Fri. 11-2 p.m.)
Dinner (Fri. 5-10 p.m.)
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