What to Eat

 

Welcome to the dining guide for Clear Lake, Iowa! Clear Lake is a beautiful community located in North Central Iowa and is home to a wide variety of unique and tasty eateries. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or a full-course meal, Clear Lake has something for everyone. From classic American diner fare to fine dining experiences, you’ll find it all here. We hope you enjoy exploring the great eateries of Clear Lake and discovering something new!

 

Clear Lake & Ventura Restaurants

Exterior photo of 173° Craft Distillery at night with rooftop lights and outdoor patio seating.

306 1st Ave N
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-1733
173° Craft Distillery uses knowledge passed along through 3 generations of chemists to combine the science of distilling with the art of blending to bring you a unique take on spirits.
So sit back, relax and take in the lake and city park views from the rooftop lounge while enjoying a beverage and bite to eat.

Avion Azul's tequila bar adorned with a house margarita in a branded cocktail shaker.

9184 265th St
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-2626
A family-owned Mexican restaurant located inside the Mason City Airport, we provide a modern Mexican feel with fresh ingredients, craft margaritas, and table-side guacamole! It’s the perfect place for an intimate date night, or to gather with friends. Come for the delicious food – stay for the incredible view!

Bennigan's Grill and Tavern bar with wood floors and bar stools ready for patrons to enjoy their Irish American Hospitality.

2023 7th Ave N
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-2366
This high-energy restaurant and tavern has a sleek new look to go along with their innovative menu, which incorporates chef-driven food with Emerald Isle favorites, such as the Turkey O’Toole, savory “Oh Baby” back ribs and the world famous Monte Cristo.

The Boulevard'

1131 Bayou Rd
Clear Lake, IA

The Boulevard Bar and Grill serves American cuisine with a variety of drinks. A bar and grill that you can watch your favorite sports team play and feel like you haven’t left home, or if you’re feeling like playing pool in an elegant environment this is the place for you!

Cabin Coffee in a mug with an iced cinnamon roll with a bite out of it.

303 Main Avenue
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-6500
Launched in 2002, this western-styled coffee shop’s model is “Everything’s Better at the Cabin.” Stock up on fresh roasted coffee to brew at home or grab a latte for the road. The menu is as fresh as the coffee, with bakery items and fresh lunch favorites. If daily features and rotating menu items don’t draw you in off the sidewalk, the aroma will!

Cancun by the Lake's bar with a margarita machine on the counter.

14 N 3rd St
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-6010
Cancun by the Lake specializes in margaritas, fajitas, burritos, tacos, salads, seafood dishes and much more! Oh, and did we mention the bottomless chips and fresh-made salsa? Located across from City Park, we are open 7 days a week to enjoy lunch & dinner with a lake view. Take out also available.

A barista makes a drink at Charlie's Soda Fountain with a neon logo sign above them.

2 N 4th St
Clear Lake, IA
(952) 457-4572
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a stop to this old-fashioned soda fountain. This newly renovated building brings a bit of nostalgia to Clear Lake offering old favorites like a Phosphate or the Mudd. Stop in to enjoy a soda, soft serve ice cream, malt, or a sundae. Their menu has something for everyone!

A variety of freshly baked Cookies, etc. cookies.

217 Main Ave
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-1060
These warm-from-the-oven cookies, made from family recipes, are legendary. The giant cookies are baked fresh all day and will wow you with seven different flavors. For a cool treat, try our ice cream sandwiches, shakes, malts, sundaes & generous ice cream cones. Cookies, etc., home of the cookie ATM is a must stop in Clear Lake.

A delicious butterburger basket with crinkle fries from Culver's.

1204 N 25th St
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-0757
Using fresh, never frozen 100% Midwest beef, the signature ButterBurgers are seared to perfection and served on a lightly buttered toasted bun. Frozen custard is made fresh in the store throughout the day, using real Wisconsin dairy, cold-pressed vanilla and Dutch-blend chocolate. Try the Flavor of the Day!

The Daily Grind coffee shop counter with delicious baked goods on display.

115 N 20th St
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 355-4614
We offer a wide variety of hot and iced drinks, and we also provide savory and sweet food options. So whether you’re stopping for your morning coffee, lunch, or an afternoon snack, we’ve got you covered!  Located inside Clear Lake Athletics & Wellness Center. Open to the Public; no Wellness Center membership required!

Da Lish Acai Bar

407 Main Avenue
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-2345
CLOSED FOR THE SEASON
Da-Lish Acai Bar is a vibrant oasis of deliciousness, serving up refreshing acai bowls and bubble waffles.  All of their bases in their extensive menu are dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly.  Pair them with a wide range of fresh toppings and add-ons to customize your healthy treat and indulge in guilt-free goodness!

Elly's written in gold with a black background

12 S Shore Dr
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-3559
Elly’s Lounge is your go-to speakeasy with a cool basement bar vibe, live music, and ice-cold brews. You’re in for unforgettable nights of fun and entertainment!

Fizz Co. logo

(641) 425-9060
Fizz Co. Sips and Sweets coming downtown Clear Lake spring 2024! They also have a full service mobile drink catering company operating out of a 1980’s horse trailer. They specialize in crafted sodas flavors & plant based energy drinks. Book Fizz Co. for your event today!

A gooey, cheesy slice of pizza is lifted from the rest of the homemade pizza pie.

12 N 3rd St
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-8288
Handmade specialties prepared the old-world way with family recipes that have been handed down for generations! Ge-Jo’s is famous for their hand-stretched made-to-order pizza, authentic pasta dishes and 18-ounce Italian margaritas. Dine on the patio overlooking City Park and the lake, and enjoy a variety of homemade sandwiches, salads, pasta dishes or mouthwatering pizza.

A plated gyro supreme with french fries from Gyro Place.

300 Main Ave
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-2525
A local family-owned eatery big on authenticity. If you’re craving a gyro, burger or tacos, you can count on us to get your fix – prepared and served right. Bring the whole crew by soon and savor the simple things, like our made-to-order bites for everyone.  Offering free delivery in Clear Lake!

A large cut of slow cooked prime rib from the Half Moon.

701 Buddy Holly Pl
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-9339
A family operation since it opened in 1972, the relaxed atmosphere of this steakhouse is where the locals go for a great meal. Steaks, fish, chops, ribs and more are prepared to order. The food is fresh and portions are generous, and all entrees are served with a loaf of homemade bread.

Holistic Harmony logo

313 N 8th St
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-4372
In addition to promoting beneficial responses for body, mind and spirit through alternative therapies, teas and education, we serve & sell delicious tea lattes & ice tea-lemonades, and baked treats.

The cozy tap room at Lake Time Brewery invites you to try one of their 10 beers on tap!

 801 Main Ave
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-2040
Established in 2012, Lake Time Brewery was born from a vision to cherish the simple things in life – state of mind that has translated into great craft beer that can be enjoyed anytime, not just at Lake Time. Lake Time Brewery produces and sells craft beer in Clear Lake Iowa. It has 10 different beers on tap including specialty and seasonal brews

A rainbow of mixed drinks lines the railing overlooking the lake at the Lakeside Landing restaurant.

1603 South Shore Dr
Clear Lake, IA
(319) 569-3538
CLOSED FOR THE SEASON
Conveniently located on the shores of Clear Lake and behind Lakeside Inn. The Landing is a large outdoor lakefront bar and grill with perfect views of the water. We offer a private dock to tie up your boat to stop by for great food, unique drinks, and an unbeatable atmosphere!

McDonalds cheeseburger, french fries, chicken McNuggets, and a coca cola ready for you to enjoy.

2 Plaza Dr
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-6502
This contemporary location offers free Wi-Fi, plasma TVs, a two-lane drive-through and a comfortable dining room to enjoy your favorites or relax with a McCafe item. Head to the golden arches for their signature french fries, Bic Macs, sandwiches and desserts!

The lakefront of the Muskie Lounge in Ventura is a brown A-Frame building, wooden dock, and rock retaining wall by their outdoor patio.

702 E Lake St
Ventura, IA
(641) 829-3850
CLOSED FOR THE SEASON
Rich’s Muskie Lounge is a family owned and operated restaurant located on Clear Lake. Stop in for our fish fry, burgers, sandwiches and more. Or just stop by for a drink on the lake at our outdoor bar, open every weekend of the summer. Come as you are.

The exterior of NIP Fitness & Smoothie Bar which offers fresh fruit smoothies and chicken rice bowls.

216 Highway 18
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-1647
Our smoothie bar is open to the public! Fruit smoothies are an excellent way to fuel your body with fresh fruit, vitamins and minerals your body needs. For pre-workout, post-workout, or when you are just driving by, we have a smoothie blend perfect for you and your taste buds. We also offer delicious chicken rice bowls!

The Olde Creamery

604 Buddy Holly Pl
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 231-0198

The Olde Creamery is a small town ice cream and gift shop with big city options: the family-owned business’s offerings include premium ice cream, old-fashioned soda, candy, gifts, creamery goods, apparel and much more!  They offer dairy free, gluten free and vegan treats, plus a variety of flavors including the Clear Lake exclusive Big Bopper – cookie dough ice cream with fresh chocolate cookies mixed in.  Enjoy ice cream for breakfast every Saturday morning during Farmers Market.

A delicious fresh taco pizza from The Other Place is piled high with meat, cheese, doritos, and tomatoes!

200 Highway 18 W
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-8118
Known for signature crisp pizzas with loads of fresh gooey cheese, this family friendly sports bar also offers oven-baked subs, Mexican specialties and Italian favorites. Their huge outdoor party deck with an exclusive menu is a summertime favorite. Check out their lunch specials, happy hour Monday-Friday and daily deals.

The outdoor picnic tables at PM Park & Tiki Bar are brightly colored and located right on a sandy beach for a great view with your meal!

15297 Raney Dr
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-1991
Located on a sandy beach under mature oak trees, this hotspot is busy from sunrise to sunset. Serving breakfast every day, they are known for their Everything Hash Browns and whimsical menu, like the Shorebird Sandwich. Dine inside the historic and charming restaurant, or settle in at one of the colorful picnic tables on the lakefront lawn.
Open Mother’s Day through Labor Day

A juicy mushroom & swiss burger and homemade chips from Rookies Rockin' Sports Bar.

307 Main Ave
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-4629
Pull up a stool at the huge two-sided bar or gather with your group at the front of the bar and socialize as you look out over Main Avenue. Watch your favorite game on one of the 24 tvs or play at one of the 4 pool tables. Daily happy hour with food and drink specials and a jukebox plays your favorite hits every day and night.

Scooter's Coffee logo

1903 Highway 18 E
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 210-6404
There is just something about Scooter’s Coffee, serving espresso & other coffee drinks, plus a variety of smoothies & pastries. We look forward to serving you Amazing drinks, from our Amazing people, Amazingly fast!

A hearty breakfast plate with an omelet and toast at Seven Stars Family Restaurant.

2309 3rd Ave S
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 231-8026
This down home eatery features satisfying comfort foods in a cozy café. Serving breakfast all day, they are famous for their Country Hash Browns grilled with bacon, diced ham, onions and peppers topped with American cheese. Hearty entrees that stick to your ribs are joined by a variety of sandwiches, salads and seafood to round out the menu. Check the board for their daily specials and pies of the day.

Delicous steak and shrimp entree at Seven's Steakhouse with hash browns with cheese and a side salad.

309 Main Ave
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-0757
This steakhouse doesn’t end at beef: almond-crusted walleye and pecan chicken are also local dinner favorites. Sit at one of their tall booths and enjoy lunch with friends, or stop in for one of our hearty breakfasts. Check out their daily features and nightly specials.

The beachy shop at South Shore Donut Company has a case full of beautiful and delicious donuts!

1205 South Shore Dr
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-8005
Named Top Donut Shop in Iowa by the Sweetest Bakery in America Contest, you won’t want to miss this beachy shop that offers award-winning donuts! Their gourmet donuts are the perfect treat, follow them on social media for new flavors and promotions.

A signature sandwich from Starboard Market has the turkey and bacon piled high on a kaiser roll, served on their signature light green FiestaWare.

310 Main Ave
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-0660
A unique little carry-out store offering a wide variety of homemade soups, salads, sandwiches & desserts, this deli is a destination in itself. The glass case is full of colorful salads and mile-high desserts made in-store daily. Daily features, boxed lunches, and catering available.

 

A subway sandwich is being created by a sandwich artist adding honey mustard to the sub.

210 Highway 18 E
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-2442
Serving fresh, made-to-order sandwiches on freshly baked breads for a fast healthy meal. Daily specials and monthly featured menu items. Order online for fast and convenient pick up!

Surf Galley interior

619 Buddy Holly Place
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-5756
Now open! Come try our chef created dishes, hand crafted cocktails & selection of wines and spirits. Open for lunch & dinner Tuesday through Saturday and offering a delicious brunch buffet on Sundays. Come check out the newest hot spot in the Surf District!

A beer flight at TAP'd includes four beers on a wooden tray with the names written in chalk.

313 Main Ave
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-8273
24 of Iowa’s best craft beers on tap! Enjoy the rotating selection of craft beer, along with signature cocktails and a full bar. With live music on weekends and your favorite games on tv, TAP’d is the perfect place for your next night out!

The exterior of the VFW Post 4868.

219 Main Ave
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-7964
Not your grandpa’s VFW, the bar nicknamed ”The Bunker” offers happy hour daily 4-7pm. Every Sunday enjoy your choice of their house made Bloody Mary, screwed up screwdriver, mimosas, or margarita on the rocks for $4 served in a pint glass! Weekly taco night every Thursday from 5-7pm makes this a downtown hotspot welcoming young and old.

 

Worth the Drive

These Clear Lake Chamber member restaurants are just a short drive from the lake and are definitely worth exploring!

 
Vulcan Hawaiian Barbecue logo

18 1/2 N Monroe Ave
Mason City, IA
(641) 201-1402

Aloha! Welcome to Vulcan Hawaiian Barbecue, where the flavors of the islands come alive on your plate!  Indulge in the irresistible taste of our Kalbi short ribs or savor the succulent Bulgogi beef. Try our crispy Chicken Katsu, Garlic Shrimp or indulge in the light and crispy delight of our Shrimp Tempura. For a taste of nostalgia with a Hawaiian twist, don’t miss our Spam Musubi, a fusion of flavors that will transport you straight to the shores of Hawaii.

 

Food Trucks and Specialty Foods

North Iowa is home to a huge variety of food trucks, specialty catering businesses, and bakers you can place orders with or find at one of our area’s many vendor events!

Big Brad's BBQ Trailer with a double rainbow behind it.

(515) 293-0791
Custom BBQ food truck as well as vendor and caterer for small parties, big events and town celebrations!  Meats: Brisket, Pulled Pork, Ribs, Pork Loin
Sides: Mac and Cheese, BBQ Beans, Cheesy potatoes, Green Beans, Corn, Cole Slaw, Pasta salads and more.

B-Lo Zero's sno cone truck.

(507) 210-3878
The locally owned southern Minnesota favorite!  Gourmet flavors and many popular specialties. We pride ourselves on the highest quality ingredients as well as outstanding customer service. Our goal is to provide each and every customer with an exceptional experience.

Chad's Pizza Truck

909 W 23rd St
Cedar Falls, IA
(319) 242-2263

Chad’s Pizza is on the move with their pizza truck! Voted Best of Iowa Pizza Fest ’21 & ’22, People’s Choice Des Moines World Food Festival ’22, WCF Courier Best of the Best Delivery Service ’21-23, and Best Food Truck @ Waverly Heritage Days ’22!

CharcuteMe logo

(406) 490-4118
Elevate your celebration with hand-crafted charcuterie boxes or catering. Specializing in ”bites” and grazing for corporate events, weddings and parties.

Chick Fil A Food Truck

(507) 289-2669
Mobile food truck that serves a select menu of Chick-fil-A favorites! Featuring Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich, Spicy Chicken Sandwich, Chick-fil-A Nuggets, Chick-fil-A Cool Wrap, Cobb Salad, Waffle Potato Fries, desserts and beverages.

Cosmic Smash Burger food truck logo

(641) 420-9523
Smash Burgers on the Go! Our trailer is more than just a place to grab lunch – it is a place to try burgers out of this world created from local Iowa beef.  We bring great food to locations all over our area. Visit our online calendar for our scheduled stops, and be sure to follow our social media for surprise visits!  Do you have a company picnic or other special event where you would like us to show up? Contact us soon, weekends book up fast!

Hubba Bubba Cuppa logo with boba tea

Clear Lake, IA
(507) 259-9187
Mobile coffee trailer specializing in BOBAS which pop with flavor as they burst in your mouth. Our drinks include: Bubba’s Bubblerz, Frappes, Cold Press, Iced Teas, Lemonade and Slushies.

Kona Ice's tropical sno cone truck

(515) 853-3080
Kona Ice is the shaved ice truck that brings a one-of-a-kind, tropical experience to you. Guests can flavor their own Kona Ice on our signature Flavorwave, dance to our island tunes, and enjoy a nutritious and delicious treat.

Lake Lemonade food truck

(406) 490-4118
Indulge in a truly refreshing and flavorful experience at Lake Lemonade! This vibrant food truck is a haven for food lovers, offering several flavors of fresh squeezed lemonade, gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, and even CharcuteMe charcuterie cups on board!

 
Lucky Wife Wine Slushies logo

16 N 8th St
(641) 251-1411
We are a guilty pleasure—a quick and delicious way to enjoy wine day or night.  Find our trailer at one of the area’s many events, or stop by Moni Jo’s Olive Oil Co. for Lucky Wife’s grab & go cooler!

 
Main Event Catering

2023 7th Ave N
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-5253
Elevate your event with Main Event Catering! Our catering location serves Clear Lake, Mason City, and Ventura. Whatever size your event is, we will ensure you and your guests experience the most delicious cuisine to compliment your special day. We are familiar with multiple venues in the area, including Best Western Holiday Lodge, the Surf Ballroom, Winan Creek Barn, and Diamond Oak. From casual to elegant, party trays, boxed lunches, appetizers and more, we work closely with our clients to fulfill their individual event needs.

 
Mexican Flavor Food Truck logo

(641) 903-1654
Mexican Flavor is a delicious food truck serving all of your favorites, including burritos, tacos, tortas, quesadillas, aguas, & frescas!

 
 
A beautiful cheesecake on display from MJ's Cheesecakes.

(641) 430-0576
Delicious made-to-order cheesecake at reasonable prices for weddings, graduations, any occasion or no special occasion at all!

 
Smokin' Mana's food truck logo

(641) 425-7432
Portside Pop-Up Picnics offers unique picnic dining experiences that make memories that last! From location, staging, dining choices, beverages, flowers, and photography, our picnic planners handle all the special details and heavy lifting, you simply show up with loved ones and enjoy making Instagram-worthy memories that your group will cherish! Available by appointment June-August.

 
Smokin' Mana's food truck logo

(641) 420-8462
Family-run food trailer specializing in smoked meats. Menu ranges from sandwiches and salads to unique spins on family favorites using our smoked meats.

 
Titanium Lunchbox food truck

(641) 843-4600
Pizza, Pasta, Sandwiches & More!  Food truck and catering available for all events!

 
Titanium Lunchbox food truck

7 Walnut Ct
Rockwell, IA
(641) 512-8633
The Wandering Brew is your ultimate destination for a mobile vintage coffee experience. We bring you a carefully curated selection of organic espresso and coffee drinks, refreshers, plant-based energy drinks, and much more, all served with a touch of nostalgia and a hint of adventure in an inviting atmosphere that evokes a sense of warmth and comfort wherever we roam.

 

Arby’s
1212 N 24th St
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-3462

Shao Ting Guo
200 7th Ave N
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-1683

El Loro
1205 N 25th St
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-3045

South Shore Sweet Spot
5269 S Shore Dr
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-9338

Holy Apples Orchard
10 N 6th St
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-4004

Taco John’s
2905 4th Ave S
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-0900

Papa Everett’s
910 Highway 18 E
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-4040

Viking Drive-In
3 S Main St
Ventura, IA
(641) 829-3514

Perkin’s
1207 N 25th St
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-7558

Wendy’s
1302 N 24th St
(641) 357-0811

Rumorz Bar & Grill
1210 South Shore Dr
Clear Lake, IA
(641) 357-1035

Wildfire
2 W Lake St
Ventura, IA

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