Restaurants on the North Side of Ottumwa, Iowa

Ottumwa, Iowa sits on the Des Moines River, with easy passage from the north to the south side of the city. There's no need to separate the city into two parts for restaurant purposes other than to help people find those close to their homes or hotels. And there are many choices.

The north side of town has city hall, the courthouse, and the public library, plus one of the two downtown business districts. With most of the law offices and government buildings, there are many people ducking out for a quick lunch. It is not possible to talk about eating spots in Ottumwa without mentioning The Canteen Lunch in the Alley, at 112 East 2nd Street. Since the late 1930s the Canteen has been serving lunch into the late afternoon. The only seating is at stools at the counter, but it's worth the wait for the loose meat sandwiches and pie. The city parking garage was literally built around this landmark.

Main and Second Sts. Business District

Not really in the business district is the Sonic Drive In, 222 North Wapello Street. It's the closest eatery to the AmericInn, and is actually on Route 63 North, just after you cross the Wapello Street Bridge. The Second Street Cafe is in the Hotel Ottumwa, at 107 East 2nd Street. It's open from early morning until late evening and serves breakfast all day. It recently went smoke-free. If you want smoke, go to the Tom-Tom Tap, also in the hotel. You can order sandwiches at the bar.

The "Family Food Court:" is at 207 West 2nd Street, almost across from the AmericInn and next to the Wells Fargo Bank. The outside is somewhat plain, so you'll be surprised to find three restaurants and ample seating. Bellacino's Pizza makes arguably the best grinders in town, and Maid Rite is known for its loose meat sandwiches. Broaster Chicken's meals do not taste as if they are chain-food recipes, and you can grab some ice cream as well. Wiggleville Road, 107 N. Market Street, opened in 2007 and features sandwiches and pizza.