Canteen Lunch In The Alley

One of those places that the local people tell you to try. My wife mentioned some time ago that she had never been there and wasn't even sure where to find it. I've eaten here a few times over the years and I was definitely ready to go again! Opened during the great depression 1936. Very simple menu and very good food. Loose meat sandwich (made-right or made-rite to most people). Homemade pie. Bag of chips. Lol, not trying to be mean but when you are asked if you want water to drink just say yes please. Iced tea seems to take a while to make. It was very good but I was done with the sandwich long before the drink made it to me. Room for maybe two dozen people at the U shaped lunch counter. Be prepared to not sit with everyone you come in with. Nice outside seating area but for the full experience try to get a seat inside! Highly recommend this place. It is located in an alley but parking is close by.

Absolutely the best loose meat sandwich in Iowa!

Fantastic small place to get a bite to eat theyre loose meat is cooked to perfection and theyre milkshakes are freshmade and very good i completely recomend visiting this historical landmark if your going to ottumwa