The best restaurants in Ames

“Whether you're craving hickory-smoked barbecue or a classic burger and fries, Hickory Park keeps Ames happily fed with generous portions and a menu that goes long on smoky comfort. Finish with your favorite ice cream treat and call it a day, because this Ames tradition since 1970 still hits the spot.”

“In the mood to trade your usual takeout for something that actually sparks joy this week, Wasabi Ames(South 16th) serves Japanese favorites, inventive sushi rolls, and new seasonal cocktails, plus easy online ordering or catering when the group text somehow becomes a party.”

From the Ames newsletter, August 7, 2026

“When you're in a keep-it-simple, feed-me-now mood, Omar's Gyro Ames comes through with authentic Mediterranean flavor and gyros that are downright craveable. No overthinking, just solid, delicious handheld joy that turns a meh day into a better one.”

From the Ames newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Warehouse-style venue serving wood-fired BBQ & down-home sides, along with cocktails & draft beer.”

“Stylish American spot serving breakfast & coffee to dinner with cocktails in shakers & craft beer.”

“Convivial, late-night eatery with a bar serving Brazilian & global meals, plus cocktails & coffee.”

“Stylish sushi joint featuring sake, vegetarian entrees and a trendy vibe.”

“Chill eatery offering burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches along with lots of cheesy entrees.”

“Laid-back coffeehouse open late & featuring espresso, crepes & light cafe fare, plus patio seating.”

“Casual place for Colombian staples and cocktails featuring arepas, empanadas, tacos and beans.”

“Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.”

“Casual joint housed in a former gas station offering Central Texas-style barbecue and Iowa beers.”

“Hip counter-serve pizzeria dishing up crispy, thin-crust pies made with creative toppings & sauces.”

“Popular delivery, carry-out & dine-in chain known for pizza, wings & pasta, plus sides & desserts.”

“A wide-ranging selection of classic & uncommon Chinese dishes presented an unassuming locale.”

“Counter-serve chain offering international noodle & pasta dishes from mac 'n' cheese to Pad Thai.”

“Lively chain steakhouse serving American fare with a Southwestern spin amid Texas-themed decor.”

“Cozy roadhouse with British grub & English-style old ale, plus imported groceries & outdoor seating.”

“Pancakes, burgers and breakfast staples, served in a clean and bright brunch spot.”

“Veteran regional chain offering pizza (including bake-at-home pies), plus wings & sandwiches.”

“Old-school, wood-lined mainstay, open since 1979, baking pizzas with many different types of crust.”

“Casual restaurant offering Chinese dishes such as fried tofu, crab rangoon, and egg rolls, plus pho.”

“Laid-back, family-owned spot serving uniquely topped pizzas & other Italian cuisine.”

“Laid-back restaurant for smoked meats like ribs and brisket, plus wings.”

“Cheery institution offering inventive sushi rolls, classic hibachi options & happy hour deals.”

“Classic Irish pub featuring woody, old-world decor, craft beers, a traditional menu & a patio.”

“Hearty Italian fare served in a comfortable old-school setting with warm brick accents.”

“Bright, casual eatery for barbecue staples such as brisket, ribs and pulled pork, plus mac 'n' cheese and baked beans.”

“Mexican joint, known for its fajitas, serving enchiladas, chilaquiles and tacos.”

“Pizza take-out & delivery chain offering classic & specialty pizzas, plus wings, sides & desserts.”

“Chain dishing up wings, tenders & burgers, plus sauces ranging from sweet to very spicy.”

“Pizza take-out & delivery chain offering classic & specialty pizzas, plus wings, sides & desserts.”

“Genteel setting for locally sourced, modern American cuisine paired with wines from a sizable list.”