American Restaurants near Rathbun

“Delicious....the train wreck...the fried french toast....SO GOOD!“

“I stopped in for an impromptu visit to the lake. I was greeted by a man who a young man called grandpa. They had to find grandma so we could find out if they had room. The whole time I'm standing here I can't wait to pay for a room here. I'm feeling all nostalgic, the foods smelling great. the place is clean you can tell from the lobby. Grandma is located and I check in. I felt at home the minute we walked in the lobby but the room was even cozier. if you're looking for fancy this ain't the place, but if your looking for a homey clean place to stay. it's the one! we will be back C&D Thank you for all your hospitality!“

“My wife and I attended a family reunion this Labor Day week-end around Lake Rathbun, IA and, per our usual custom, wanted to seek out some unique local restaurants in an area which we had never visited before. I was attracted by the website for Louie’s Lakeside Bistro & Bar, so I gave them a call fairly early Sunday morning, and was pleasantly surprised when an actual human being answered. It turned out to be Tim, the owner, who was super friendly. He told me that they were usually not open Sunday evenings, but because of the holiday they would be, so I was definitely looking forward to checking this place out, especially after talking with Tim. So my wife and I and a few others went there for dinner, and discovered to our delight that it was EXACTLY the kind of local culinary experience we were seeking! The food was excellent, the wait staff were all friendly and engaging, and you could tell that it was a favorite dining spot for the local folks. On top of that, Tim came out to our table to chat with us, and even brought us a generous amount of paella (a family favorite of ours) which he had prepared for his OWN family that day, but graciously shared with us. (Tim, the paella was delectable, by the way!) But just to echo what is stated on their website, if you are looking for a “fancy” dining experience, this might not be the spot for you. But if you are looking for a “one of a kind” eatery with its own unique charm and character (which we definitely were), which offers a variety of fresh and flavorful dishes served by friendly folks, all set in a rustic lakeside ambience, then Louie’s is the place for you.“