I’m not a gatekeeper. I love discovering and sharing local treasures in Iowa. When I find a cool park, café, or festival that deserves more attention, I can’t wait to share it. Sometimes, though, I find so many gems at once that I have to save some for later. One such find is Barrett’s Quality Eats, a charming little café hidden among strip malls.
A few months back, my husband and I stumbled upon this bakery on a weekday morning. We had planned a lovely date at a nearby garden and a cozy soup shop. We were excited to enjoy the fall colors, but just as we set out, the weather turned gloomy. Instead of heading back home, my husband suggested we explore our surroundings and find something new.
We pulled off the interstate at a familiar intersection. This spot is full of chain stores and fast food joints—not exactly a foodie paradise. To our surprise, we spent a good ten minutes scanning the area for something interesting. Then I spotted a small bakery tucked away, nestled between the city and the cornfields.
Initially, we didn’t expect much, but we avoided the usual gas station coffee and stale doughnuts. To our delight, we found a cute patio with string lights and flower boxes, even if it was closed due to the rain. When we stepped inside through a heavy green door, we were welcomed by the pleasant aroma of fresh pastries and the comforting sound of coffee grinding.
The cheerful staff caught our attention, especially the bakery display filled with vibrant pastries and giant cookies. We couldn’t resist trying a few treats. The staff also suggested the poke bowl, a unique dish we hadn’t encountered in Iowa before.
Once seated, surrounded by warm light and vintage decor, we were excited to dig in. The poke bowl was colorful and bursting with flavor. It featured fresh tuna, creamy avocado, pickled carrots, and a perfectly poached egg. Each bite was a delightful surprise that transformed our rainy day into something special.
What’s fascinating about Barrett’s is its rich background. This café is the creation of chef Cory Barrett, a Food Network champion baker. The bakery is popular, often selling out on weekends, making it a must-visit for anyone in Coralville.
If you’re exploring Iowa, definitely consider stopping by Barrett’s. It broke the mold for what we expected to find and reminded us of the hidden gems cities can offer.
Fun Fact: According to a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association, nearly 40% of diners are looking for unique dining experiences. Barrett’s Quality Eats falls perfectly into that category.
If you want to explore more Iowa delights, check out Only In Your State for additional local favorites.
