+1 515-432-9422
Whistle-Stop Cafe, nestled in the heart of Boone, Iowa, offers an authentic American dining experience that captures the warm, welcoming spirit of a small-town eatery while serving up robust, satisfying comfort food. Located at 1102 Story St, this charming cafe expertly blends classic favorites with thoughtful new menu additions, inviting guests to indulge in hearty dishes that feel like a loving embrace from the kitchen.
The moment you step inside Whistle-Stop Cafe, you’re greeted by an inviting atmosphere that feels both cozy and familiar—like visiting a cherished family spot. The menu is a delightful celebration of all-American classics, from morning until night. Breakfast options like the Two Large Eggs with Hash Browns or American Fries paired with Toast & Jelly, Biscuits and Gravy, and Pumpkin Pancakes are made to order and bring a comforting start to your day, with fluffy textures and rich, savory flavors that linger on the palate. The jumbo Cinnamon Roll alone is a sweet treat that promises to satisfy any craving for nostalgia.
Lunch and dinner highlight an array of expertly crafted sandwiches and hearty plates, such as the legendary Jumbo Tenderloin Sandwich with fries, the flavorful Chicken Fried Steak and Eggs, and the mouthwatering Hot Roast Beef Sandwich—renowned for its revitalized recipe that customers rave about. Whether you’re in the mood for a Gourmet Burger Special with perfectly seasoned patties or a Hand-Breaded House Ring appetizer paired with crispy, golden French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries, every dish seems thoughtfully designed to deliver both comfort and quality.
Whistle-Stop Cafe’s menu is clearly crafted with care, evident not just in the food but also in the attentive service. Regulars and newcomers alike praise the friendly, genuine hospitality provided by staff like Sherri, who go above and beyond to make guests feel known and cared for. The carefully curated selection avoids overwhelming diners while assuring there’s something for everyone, from the classic Reuben and Texas Hot Beef burger topped with hash browns and cheese sauce to lighter options like garden salads or a simple bowl of soup.
Long-time patrons have fondly witnessed the cafe’s evolution, welcoming the tasteful remodel that enhanced the ambiance without losing the place’s itself soul. This balance of tradition and thoughtful innovation makes Whistle-Stop Cafe more than just a meal stop—it’s a beloved Boone institution where memorable meals and friendly faces come together. Whether you’re craving a comforting breakfast, a satisfying sandwich, or a slice of cherry pie that feels like a little slice of heaven, this cafe delivers both on flavor and genuine hometown warmth.
Loved the small town cafe feel. Menu had many options to choose from and food was good. Our waitress, Sherri, was very friendly, stopped to check on us many times and really got to know us.
Been going to the Whistle Stop for 30 plus yrs. The remodel is great! The menu has awesome additions and upgrades along with the old favorites! I tried a new item and it was fantastic. Food quality is excellent.Great staff and service. The remodel hasn’t changed my mind, this is a great establishment!!
Visited this Boone staple on a Friday night for dinner and had a great experience. The menu is small but well curated, with something for everyone. We had the crispy hot onion rings, a delicious chicken pot pie, and a smashburger with sweet potato fries. The service was friendly and attentive, the atmosphere cozy and inviting, and the prices very reasonable. A solid spot we’d happily return to.
The new hot beef sandwich is absolutely amazing and even better than the old one! You can tell a lot of care went into improving the recipe, and it totally paid off. The new menu items are just as impressive, offering something different for everyone without losing that classic comfort food vibe. As always, the staff is awesome, friendly, attentive, and genuinely happy to see you. Love seeing this place continue to get even better!
I had the portobello sandwich and some cherry pie and it was delicious! If im ever on death row that will be my last meal request. I can't wait to go back to try breakfast!
Food was tasty but small, reflected by reasonable prices. Some new staff? A bit slow to get going. Cool small diner, can visit with all at the counter. Foot test a bit high or stools low?
Recently visited family in Boone. Heard this place reopened and fortunately was within walking distance. The place was packed and the food was amazing. Went twice during our visit it was do good. My favorite is the breakfast sandwich with the fresh French bread. Their take on the chicken and waffles is also delicious with the hot honey, I just prefer sandwiches. The bread is fresh from the local bakery! We visited over 2 weeks ago and I recently had a dream about eating the breakfast sandwich so I had to write a review. You may have to wait for a seat but the food is worth it and the staff is very attentive and friendly.
Food was good. I had the chicken fried steak, it was very good. The hashbrowns were plain. It took a while to get our food. but, I over heard they just started excepting Door Dash orders, and are having growing pains. So, ideally speed will improve.