Northwestern Steakhouse

If you are looking for a true culinary legend in the heart of Iowa, Northwestern Steakhouse is a must-see on your itinerary. It is not just a restaurant, but an iconic spot in Mason City that has been drawing foodies from all over the USA for decades. Founded by Greek immigrants over a century ago, the establishment has preserved its authenticity and unique charm.

The main highlight of Northwestern Steakhouse is its unique method of preparing meat. They serve "Greek-style" steaks, famous for being incredibly tender and juicy. The use of high-quality Iowa beef combined with a secret blend of spices, olive oil, and butter makes every bite literally melt in your mouth. The restaurant started as a humble eatery for workers, but today it is recognized as one of the most iconic in the state.

The interior transports guests to the atmosphere of old America: cozy wooden booths, vintage posters, and photos of old Mason City create a sense of generational continuity. This is a family-run business where traditions are honored above all else, and a portrait of the legendary founder, Tony Papouchis, still greets guests at the register.

You can contact the management or check menu details using the contact information below. We recommend visiting the official website before your visit for the most up-to-date information.

The main reason to visit Northwestern Steakhouse is, of course, to taste their legendary meat dishes. Visitors can order a juicy ribeye, a tender filet mignon, or a classic prime rib. Be sure to try the signature Greek spaghetti with Parmesan and that secret sauce, the intense flavor of which many try but fail to replicate at home. Every main course is accompanied by a salad, fresh bread, and a side of your choice: from baked potato to rice.

If your visit falls on a Sunday, look out for the special menu featuring salads made with vegetables grown in the founders' own garden. While waiting for a table, guests can spend time in the cozy lounge on the second floor, enjoying drinks and looking at historical photos on the walls. It is the perfect place for a leisurely dinner with friends or family, filled with the spirit of true American classics.

Finding Northwestern Steakhouse is easy: it is located in the northern part of the city at 304 16th St NW, right across from the city baseball fields. If you are traveling by car from downtown Mason City, follow US-18 W and then turn onto 16th Street NW. Parking for guests is provided next to the restaurant.

Public transportation in the city is not very extensive, so the most convenient way to get there is by taxi or popular ride-sharing services; the trip from central hotels takes only a few minutes. If you prefer walking, the route from the city center is about 2 kilometers. It is also worth noting that Mason City Municipal Airport (MCW) is a 10–15 minute drive away.

The history of Northwestern Steakhouse began back in 1920. It was founded by Greek immigrants Pete Maduras and Tony Papouchis. Initially, the establishment was called Pete's Place and was located in an industrial area between cement plants. In those days, the main customers were workers who could enjoy a hearty steak dinner for just 25 cents. Interestingly, during the Prohibition years, alcohol was secretly sold in the restaurant's basement.

In 1954, the restaurant moved to its current location, and ten years later, Tony Papouchis became the sole owner, giving the establishment its modern name. Tony was known not only for his culinary talents but also for his love of gardening: he grew vegetables for the restaurant himself and worked in the kitchen until the very end of his life in 1991.

Today, the business is run by Tony's son, Bill, along with his wife, Ann. They strictly adhere to the original recipes, which allowed the restaurant to celebrate its centennial anniversary. For its contribution to the city's culture and economy, Northwestern Steakhouse was honored with a prestigious award—the "Key to the City" of Mason City.

A visit to this legendary steakhouse requires some planning, especially during peak hours. Since the restaurant is in high demand, lines at the entrance are common, and guests often wait outside. Be prepared for a wait of 1 to 2 hours for a table. However, most visitors claim that the gastronomic delight is worth every minute.

The dinner itself usually lasts about an hour, so you should budget 2–3 hours for the total visit. If you want to wait in a more relaxed atmosphere, you can spend time in the cozy lounge on the second floor, sipping refreshments and getting ready for a true meat feast.

The restaurant hospitably opens its doors to visitors in the evenings. Typically, Northwestern Steakhouse is open Monday through Saturday, seating guests from 4:30 PM until 9:30 PM. This makes it an ideal spot to end a busy sightseeing day with a hearty and delicious dinner.

It is important to remember that the establishment is closed on Sundays. Since the schedule may change on holidays or depending on the season, tourists are advised to check the official website beforehand to ensure a perfect visit.

Exploring the surroundings of Mason City can significantly enrich your travel experience. The city is famous for its architectural heritage and cozy public spaces, which are within walking distance or a short drive from the restaurant.

After a hearty dinner, you can walk to historic homes or visit local cultural centers. Below are the most notable sights nearby: