The best restaurants in Dubuque

27 restaurants we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Restaurants · 27 places · showing the latest additions first

Craving a game-night hang this week? Mason Dixon Saloon nails the local-meat, in-house-smoked vibe with signature dry-rubbed ribs, legit…

163 Main St

Craving a game-night hang this week? Mason Dixon Saloon nails the local-meat, in-house-smoked vibe with signature dry-rubbed ribs, legit wings, and a slow-cooked Reuben people won’t shut up about, all spread across two levels where you can watch the big game or sneak in a little dancing.

From the Dubuque newsletter, August 3, 2026

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Happy Joe's Pizza - Dubuque - University keeps weeknights fun with the original Taco Joe pizza and a lineup of Mexican-style pies, dessert…

1094 University Ave

Happy Joe's Pizza - Dubuque - University keeps weeknights fun with the original Taco Joe pizza and a lineup of Mexican-style pies, dessert pizzas and ice cream sundaes. When you need an easy crowd-pleaser, this is classic Dubuque comfort that hits the nostalgia button and still tastes great.

From the Dubuque newsletter, September 13, 2026

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Pizza Hut

Restaurants

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

3415 Stoneman Rd Unit 1

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

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When you want that old neighborhood trattoria vibe without leaving town, Vinny Vanucchi's Little Italy brings made-from-scratch family…

180 Main St

When you want that old neighborhood trattoria vibe without leaving town, Vinny Vanucchi's Little Italy brings made-from-scratch family recipes passed down five generations, baskets of garlicky bread, homemade marinara, and an outstanding wine selection. Hosting soon?

From the Dubuque newsletter, September 17, 2026

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Settle in at 7 Hills Taphouse for fruit-forward brews, experimental IPAs, and a scratch-made menu that nails the classics, pizzas, burgers,…

3100 Dodge St

Settle in at 7 Hills Taphouse for fruit-forward brews, experimental IPAs, and a scratch-made menu that nails the classics, pizzas, burgers, and those infamous nachos. The newest member of the 7 Hills crew is dialed for easy hangs with friends this week when you want good beer and better bites.

From the Dubuque newsletter, August 14, 2026

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Keep dinner simple this week with Ichiban Hibachi Steakhouse & Sushi Bar, where Dubuque’s go-to spot for authentic Japanese favorites rolls…

3187 University Ave

Keep dinner simple this week with Ichiban Hibachi Steakhouse & Sushi Bar, where Dubuque’s go-to spot for authentic Japanese favorites rolls out fresh sushi and satisfying kitchen classics, plus easy online ordering for a no-fuss pickup that still feels like a treat.

From the Dubuque newsletter, August 24, 2026

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Falbo Bros Pizzeria spins hand-rolled dough, scratch-made sauce, and old-school deck ovens into three glorious styles... crispy thin,…

3250 Kennedy Cir #3 · ✓ checked Aug 19

Falbo Bros Pizzeria spins hand-rolled dough, scratch-made sauce, and old-school deck ovens into three glorious styles... crispy thin, cheesy deep dish, and over-two-inches-thick stuffed. This week, when the day needs comfort, grab a pie loaded with toppings like they mean it and call it self-care.

From the Dubuque newsletter, August 29, 2026

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Family-owned since 1960, Marco's Italian & American Foods turns out from-scratch pasta, house-made meatballs and sausage, and the red-sauce…

2022 Central Ave

Family-owned since 1960, Marco's Italian & American Foods turns out from-scratch pasta, house-made meatballs and sausage, and the red-sauce classics you crave, like lasagna, veal parmigiana, and cannelloni, plus pizzas and a full bar to keep the conversation saucy. Put it on your dinner rotation this week.

From the Dubuque newsletter, August 28, 2026

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Sunshine Family Restaurant is a down-to-earth spot for hearty American comfort plates done fresh, from big breakfasts and strong coffee to…

401 Central Ave

Sunshine Family Restaurant is a down-to-earth spot for hearty American comfort plates done fresh, from big breakfasts and strong coffee to hot lunch and dinner staples. Dependable, quick in-and-out, attentive service, and prices that don't make you flinch... add it to your Dubuque rotation this week.

From the Dubuque newsletter, September 20, 2026

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When this week calls for a proper steak, creamy lobster mac ’n’ cheese, and a nightcap that actually feels like a nightcap, The Vault…

342 Main St · ✓ checked Aug 11

When this week calls for a proper steak, creamy lobster mac ’n’ cheese, and a nightcap that actually feels like a nightcap, The Vault Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge shows up with cozy vibes and reliably satisfying plates... the kind you’ll be thinking about tomorrow.

From the Dubuque newsletter, August 17, 2026

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Mario's Italian Restaurant has been serving Dubuque since 1977 with three generations of homemade Italian, from pizza to lasagna, chicken…

1298 Main St

Mario's Italian Restaurant has been serving Dubuque since 1977 with three generations of homemade Italian, from pizza to lasagna, chicken parm, beef ravioli, and those meatballs everyone talks about. Cozy, family-run vibes, nightly features, and comfort food that feels like Sunday dinner even on a Tuesday.

From the Dubuque newsletter, September 6, 2026

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Kid-friendly pizza chain known for crust choices & Mexican-inspired pies plus oversized sundaes.

855 Century Dr

Kid-friendly pizza chain known for crust choices & Mexican-inspired pies plus oversized sundaes.

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Convivium Urban Farmstead is a nonprofit restaurant and coffee house where grabbing a tasty bite can turn into learning how to grow, cook,…

2811 Jackson St

Convivium Urban Farmstead is a nonprofit restaurant and coffee house where grabbing a tasty bite can turn into learning how to grow, cook, and eat with confidence. This week, check out their hands-on cooking and gardening classes, demos, and community-focused programs that feed Dubuque in more ways than one.

From the Dubuque newsletter, August 27, 2026

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Chain for gourmet burgers & other American comfort fare.

2775 NW Arterial

Chain for gourmet burgers & other American comfort fare.

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Brazen Open Kitchen | Bar serves honest, from-scratch cooking with locally sourced ingredients, an open kitchen buzz, inventive New…

955 Washington St #101

Brazen Open Kitchen | Bar serves honest, from-scratch cooking with locally sourced ingredients, an open kitchen buzz, inventive New American plates, and cocktails, craft beer, plus a thoughtful wine list. Perfect when you want something seasonal, chef-driven, and celebratory without leaving town.

From the Dubuque newsletter, September 11, 2026

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L.May Eatery

Restaurants

L.May Eatery does creative, market-driven plates with a friendly, upscale-casual vibe that works for pizza-and-beer night or your next…

1072 Main St

May Eatery does creative, market-driven plates with a friendly, upscale-casual vibe that works for pizza-and-beer night or your next celebration. Think locally sourced seasonal menus, plenty of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, and the kind of hospitality Grandma Lil May would be proud of.

From the Dubuque newsletter, September 4, 2026

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Craving fruit-forward brews, experimental IPAs, and upscale pub grub that actually hits, 7 Hills Brewing Company brings it in a rustic…

1085 Washington St

Craving fruit-forward brews, experimental IPAs, and upscale pub grub that actually hits, 7 Hills Brewing Company brings it in a rustic German bier hall setting with large tables, long benches, a big horse shoe bar, and an open view of the brew system. Come as you are, grab a pint, stay weird.

From the Dubuque newsletter, August 23, 2026

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@Papi’s Café

Restaurants

From protein-packed empanadas and gluten-free arepas to rich Colombian coffee, fresh juices, and mini donuts that carry on the Habits Mini…

1052 Locust St

From protein-packed empanadas and gluten-free arepas to rich Colombian coffee, fresh juices, and mini donuts that carry on the Habits Mini Donuts legacy, @Papi’s Café keeps things tasty and healthy. Treat yourself this week to bold, comforting Colombian flavors made with heart, and watch your afternoon slump surrender.

From the Dubuque newsletter, September 18, 2026

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Swagat - Dubuque

Restaurants

Swagat - Dubuque brings a modern, casual vibe with authentic Indian flavors from across India, from tandoori chicken to tikka favorites,…

1108 Locust St

Swagat - Dubuque brings a modern, casual vibe with authentic Indian flavors from across India, from tandoori chicken to tikka favorites, plus a bar and cocktails. A buffet all week, catering, and private parties make it easy for a chill weeknight or a spicy get-together.

From the Dubuque newsletter, September 3, 2026

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Dottie's Cafe

Restaurants

Dottie's Cafe keeps it classic with real-deal diner plates that taste like someone actually cooked, not assembled. Think crisp waffles,…

504 Central Ave

Dottie's Cafe keeps it classic with real-deal diner plates that taste like someone actually cooked, not assembled. Think crisp waffles, soft-scrambled eggs, and a ham-and-cheese omelette done right, plus honest lunch favorites using fresh, locally sourced ingredients... the kind of spot you make your regular.

From the Dubuque newsletter, September 7, 2026

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When the craving hits for wings in Renee's homemade sauce, a Garbage Basket you probably shouldn't tackle solo, or a Sportsters Special…

2600 Central Ave

When the craving hits for wings in Renee's homemade sauce, a Garbage Basket you probably shouldn't tackle solo, or a Sportsters Special burger crowned with a fried egg and onion rings, Sportsters Pub-N-Grub pairs it with sports on TV and the kind of late night hours locals appreciate.

From the Dubuque newsletter, September 14, 2026

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Shot Tower Inn

Restaurants

Shot Tower Inn has been dishing out hot, fresh pies for over 50 years, the kind you share with family, neighbors, and that friend who…

390 Locust St

Shot Tower Inn has been dishing out hot, fresh pies for over 50 years, the kind you share with family, neighbors, and that friend who always swears they’re not hungry until the box opens. Order online or send a special request, then let this hometown staple handle dinner while you handle the couch.

From the Dubuque newsletter, August 21, 2026

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Papa Ozz

Restaurants

Papa Ozz serves pizzas, gyros, and stacked sandwiches with a home-cooked vibe, perfect when you want real food fast. Backed by Ozzy’s 40…

3338 John F Kennedy Rd

Papa Ozz serves pizzas, gyros, and stacked sandwiches with a home-cooked vibe, perfect when you want real food fast. Backed by Ozzy’s 40 years in the restaurant world, this local spot nails the no-fuss, family-friendly thing, so you can grab dinner and get on with your Dubuque day.

From the Dubuque newsletter, August 31, 2026

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Seasonal Midwestern plates, cocktails that make decisions hard, and that cozy brick-walled glow... Pepper Sprout Midwest Cuisine nails the…

378 Main St

Seasonal Midwestern plates, cocktails that make decisions hard, and that cozy brick-walled glow... Pepper Sprout Midwest Cuisine nails the upscale bistro vibe without the fuss, rotating creative American fare and pouring a thoughtful wine selection from the full bar.

From the Dubuque newsletter, September 21, 2026

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Charlotte's Coffee House keeps Dubuque humming with specialty coffee drinks, baked goods, and legit lunch options that don’t feel like a…

1104 White St

Charlotte's Coffee House keeps Dubuque humming with specialty coffee drinks, baked goods, and legit lunch options that don’t feel like a compromise. With three locations to choose from, it’s the easy, tasty move when you need a mid-morning lift or a no-fuss midday bite that still feels a little special.

From the Dubuque newsletter, August 22, 2026

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Foodies Downtown

Restaurants

Foodies Downtown delivers burgers plus a breakfast lineup that rescues rough mornings... pancakes, omelettes, French toast, and coffee,…

1046 Central Ave

Foodies Downtown delivers burgers plus a breakfast lineup that rescues rough mornings... pancakes, omelettes, French toast, and coffee, with sandwiches and wraps for the midday slump, perfect for a quick bite between errands. Local, unfussy, consistently tasty since 2020.

From the Dubuque newsletter, September 19, 2026

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Magoo's Pizza

Restaurants

Watch your thin-crust come to life on the line, then hit a Wood Stone Oven blasting 650+ degrees, so it’s ready in 3 to 5 minutes. Magoo's…

1875 University Ave

Watch your thin-crust come to life on the line, then hit a Wood Stone Oven blasting 650+ degrees, so it’s ready in 3 to 5 minutes. Magoo's Pizza does garden-fresh toppings, handcrafted dough, solid house combos, crafty salads, plus cookies and brownie bites, with retro vibes and a neighborhood feel.

From the Dubuque newsletter, September 5, 2026

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