Miles Inn

Have you ever wondered what a real American "dive bar" with a century of history looks like? In Sioux City, located in the USA, you'll find exactly such a place—the legendary Miles Inn. This is not just an eatery, but a genuine cultural symbol that has preserved its authenticity since the first half of the 20th century.

The interior here is simple and unpretentious: there is no fancy decor, but there is an abundance of unique local flavor. People come here not for luxury, but for the atmosphere of good old Iowa, where every visitor feels like a welcome guest. Miles Inn is famous for its commitment to traditions that have remained unchanged for decades.

The main reasons for the world fame of this modest bar are its signature "Charlie Boy" sandwich and beer served in massive, frost-covered "Schooner" mugs. For city residents, it’s a meeting place for generations, and for tourists, it’s a must-see stop that offers a glimpse of the real, unvarnished "small-town America."

For your convenience, the establishment's contact details are listed below. Please note that Miles Inn is a traditional bar that is cash-only. In case you forget this rule, there is an ATM located inside.

The main ritual at Miles Inn is tasting their famous gastronomic duo. You should definitely order the "Charlie Boy" sandwich—savory loose meat with cheese, onions, and pickles on a soft bun. It is traditionally accompanied by a "Schooner"—an ice-cold mug of beer that is so cold it develops a thin layer of frost right in your hands.

The menu here is extremely concise: besides the legendary sandwich, they offer little more than chips. This specialization allows the cooks to perfect the flavor of the main dish. This place isn't about haute cuisine; it's about honest food and the pleasure of simple things.

After your meal, you can enjoy a game of pool or simply watch the local life from a seat at the bar. Miles Inn is the perfect place for those who want to stop being a tourist for a while and feel like a local, immersing themselves in the slow pace of conversation and the relaxed atmosphere of a neighborhood bar.

Finding Miles Inn is easy—it is located at 2622 Leech Ave in one of the city's quiet residential neighborhoods. Its modest facade might not be immediately noticeable from a distance, but the place's popularity among locals makes it an easy landmark for any taxi driver.

If you plan to arrive in your own or a rented car, keep an important local tip in mind: it is best to park in the dirt lot behind the building. Most regulars enter the bar through the back entrance from the parking lot, which creates the feeling of a private, almost secret neighborhood club.

Public transportation in this area is limited, so for tourists, the most comfortable way to get there is by taxi from the city center. The trip takes only a few minutes and allows you to fully relax without worrying about finding a parking spot.

The history of this place began back in 1925, when a married couple opened a small grocery store. Back then, no one could have imagined that a modest shop would turn into one of the state's most recognizable landmarks. It wasn't until 1946, after a change in ownership, that the establishment began its steady transformation into a bar, while maintaining the cozy atmosphere of a neighborhood shop.

The establishment's iconic status is inextricably linked to the name of Charlie Miles. He was the one who came up with the recipe for the famous "Charlie Boy" sandwich. Interestingly, the dish was named after the owner's son, Charlie Jr., who was born in 1959. Since then, the recipe for this meat delicacy has remained unchanged, becoming a true gastronomic relic of the city.

In August 2025, Miles Inn officially celebrated its 100th anniversary. The current owners see the secret to such longevity in strictly following the rule: "Don't fix what isn't broken." They consciously avoid trendy interior updates to preserve the very authenticity that generations of families keep coming back for.

To simply grab a bite and soak up the spirit of the establishment, 30 to 60 minutes will be enough. It is a great spot for a quick but filling lunch or a short break in a busy sightseeing schedule.

However, if you want to truly immerse yourself in the "dive bar" atmosphere and chat with the locals, we recommend setting aside 1.5–2 hours. In the evening, when regulars and young people gather here, time flies by over a game of pool and relaxed conversation.

The establishment is open to visitors daily, with the schedule varying by day of the week to ensure everyone can find time to relax:

• Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
• Friday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
• Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM
• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Sioux City offers many interesting places beyond its legendary bars. A stroll around the neighborhood after visiting Miles Inn will allow you to learn more about the region's history and enjoy local architecture and parks.