A Slice of Small-Town Charm:
Lunch at The Serving Café in West Branch, Iowa
After spending the morning exploring the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and its beautifully kept grounds, Jenny and I found ourselves in need of a good lunch. You know the kind—something hearty enough to match an appetite earned by walking and learning. Jenny, ever the savvy navigator of Google Maps, suggested The Serving Café, nestled in the heart of West Branch, Iowa.
Now, I’ll admit, when she first mentioned it, I envisioned a smattering of finger foods and light bites—not exactly what this man with a healthy hunger was after. But Jenny, with her trademark persistence, insisted we at least stop in and have a look. As usual, her instincts were right on the money.
A Warm Welcome and One Memorable Menu
Located at 209 E Main St, The Serving Café is a cozy spot that feels like a warm hug the moment you step inside. We were greeted by a cheerful young lady who handed us menus and walked us through their offerings. It didn’t take long for me to realize I was in for something special. The sandwiches on the menu weren’t your run-of-the-mill deli fare; these were gourmet creations with a flair that promised satisfaction.
I decided on the Pastrami on Rye, a masterpiece of smoked pastrami, caramelized onions, sauerkraut, bacon jam, Thousand Island dressing, and Swiss cheese, all nestled between slices of marbled rye bread. One bite, and I was convinced: it was the best Pastrami on Rye I’d ever had. I mean, exceptional! And as a fellow who’s eaten his fair share of sandwiches in his day, that’s saying something. It came with a bag of chips that complemented the meal perfectly—simple, tasty, and just right.
Jenny, on the other hand, ordered the Buttermilk Monte Cristo, featuring ham, Swiss cheese, a special mayo sauce, and raspberry preserves on Texas toast. Naturally, I finagled a bite. Let me tell you, it was another home run. The mix of sweet and savory was nothing short of divine. Jenny, ever generous, shared a few bites with me, which I appreciated more than she’ll ever know.
The Heart of West Branch
The café’s food was so satisfying that we took the scenic route afterward, driving around West Branch to soak in the charm of this little town of about 2,500 people. It’s a community on the rise, with a recently improved school system, a national park, and the Presidential Library adding to its appeal. There’s a buzz of optimism in the air here, which Jennifer Walker, the café’s founder, embodies perfectly.
Jennifer grew up in West Branch and has fond memories of serving customers in her mother’s café. After traveling the country during her husband’s military career, she returned to her roots in 2021 to open The Serving Café. Fueled by a love for her community and locally sourced ingredients, she’s built more than just a café—it’s a gathering place, a workspace, and a cornerstone of the town’s renewed vitality.
Jennifer’s journey is inspiring. She says that 2020, with all its upheaval, pushed her to reflect on her passions. That reflection led to The Serving Café. From the moment she opened the doors, Jennifer says she knew two things: the café would quickly outgrow its space, and her role as a small-town café owner was meant to be. Now, The Serving Café is poised to expand into a newly remodeled space, doubling its size and adding outdoor seating and a drive-through.
Why You Should Visit
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty sandwich, a sweet treat, or just a cup of coffee in a welcoming atmosphere, The Serving Café delivers. Their focus on home-cooked meals and ethically sourced ingredients makes every bite taste like it was crafted with care. And the setting? It’s a mix of nostalgia and modern comfort, with indoor and outdoor seating designed for both intimate conversations and lively gatherings.
Another great reason to visit and dine at the restaurant – we must support locally owned businesses like this! Too often our favorite places shutter because they couldn’t make a profit. As a small business owner myself, I ALWAYS try to support the little guy – or gal.
The next time you find yourself near Iowa City, make the short drive to West Branch and stop by The Serving Café. You’ll leave with a full belly, a happy heart, and maybe even some inspiration from a community that knows the value of small-town charm and good food.
