This is the coolest bar I've ever been to in Iowa, if not one of the coolest bars I've ever been…read moreto- PERIOD! The Sanity Room takes "theme" bar to a whole new level. There is a state mental facility outside of Independence, Iowa, and hence the theme of the Sanity Room. But don't think it's cold and creepy. No. The owners have gone to great lengths to make this an inviting place complete with the unique chairs, private small booths, and kitschy motto signs surrounding the place (one of my faves: "I can only please one person per day. Today I choose me."). They serve shots in pill bottles and syringes, and the staff will even make you don a patient gown, sit in the old hospital bed (vintage and they claim it came from the state hospital), and then administer the shots while wearing a doctor's coat. Genius! After you are vaccinated, you get a sticker. As if the booze wasn't awesome enough! And let's talk about the booze. This is a full bar that also features some great craft and local beers, as well as a local wine. Iowa wine, you ask? It was by far the best I sampled and I bought a bottle. Yeah, you can buy their stock too, if they have enough. As for specialty cocktails? Look no further than the bloody mary made with Chardonnay. That's right, I said the bloody mary is made with wine. And it's delicious. Since wine doesn't have as much alcohol as vodka, you might have to drink a lot to get the same effect, but with a taste like this you won't mind. The Sanity Room does seem to be a work in progress as they only have one unisex bathroom but they are working on more accommodations. Still, it's small so you can't imagine there would ever be a long line. It also sits in the back of an antique store, so blink and you might miss it. I know we did the first time we walked by, but the second time we took a chance and walked in and I am so glad we did! There's even a back patio area that overlooks the Wapsipinican River. The only bad thing would be that there are no TVs in the Sanity Room. I question if this would change the integrity of the bar, as it might compromise the theme and inviting nature. But I am a sports nut and there would be nothing better than belly up at the bar, drinking a glass of La T Da & watching the game! Seriously, if you're ever in Independence and you don't stop in here, you're missing out. I can't wait to get back and get my dose of Sanity!

Such a great name for the town that includes the mental hospital. Eclectic, fun decor and the…read moreowner/managers obviously love their work! A deck in the back gives a nice view of the Wapsie River, and an antique shop with all sorts of fun things, from tools to quilts. Thanks for the hospitality!

Little bar & grill with a lot of signs. The manager was friendly and attentive. They don't have…read moreany beer on tap and limited canned & bottled beers. We had bacon cheeseburgers with onion rings and cheese curds. The burger were hand-pattied and nice and thick. Excellent favor. The onion rings & curds were good. They serve pizzas that are made in the owners other bar in Elgin. We camp in the area and will come back!

Local small bar and grill. Dropped by on our way driving through town. They have an assortment of…read moreburgers and pizzas and side orders. Everything tasted fresh and perfectly cooked. You can tell this is where the locals hang out.

The owner is the best guy. He makes sure you're always taken care of and has the best personality…read more If you miss this spot, the mistake is your. Thank you Sean for your hospitality.

From the owner: Large whiskey selection, cold beer! Frosty mugs. Bar games (pool, darts ect.)read more

We stopped in for a quick lunch and a couple drinks and were not disappointed. The waiter was…read morefriendly and they had a nice selection of beers from Iowa to choose from. The entire restaurant was very clean and the food came out hot and tasty.

Cool place. Friendly staff. Food was average but a large menu to choose from…read more Bacon Cheese Fries "Made Healthy"- 7/10 French Fries- 8/10 Mac N Cheese Burger- 5/10 Buffalo Chx Wrap- 5/10

The owner has zero customer service skills and her cooking is worse. At least some of us actually…read moregot our food.

Great food. slow service. Nice atmosphere. Friendly service. Good burgers and fries. Good drinks.read more

The place to watch Iowa games, especially if Jake or Endo is behind the bar…read more Great selection of beer. They will have something you like. Their mix drinks are great. Not burned but you can taste the liquor. They have frozen pizzas if you want a snack.

Had a couple drinks here while in town for my brother's graduation. I have to say I was impressed…read moreby the beer selection. Being in a college town I automatically expected there to be just basic beers on the menu, but the bar offered a variety of different craft beers. I have to say I was very impressed. The owner and locals were extremely friendly and welcoming. Enjoyed The Wooden Foot very much. If you are ever in Waverly, Iowa you must go there.

Delicious smash burger and fries. Fast & friendly service. Ate on the patio which was greatread more

We were visiting Decorah for a wedding and stopped here for lunch. The portions were generous! The…read morestaff was friendly. We sat on the patio and there was plenty of room even though the restaurant was packed. We would definitely return! I loved my buffalo cauliflower wings and my hubs enjoyed the burger!

Stopped while in town for RAGBRAI. Comfortable seating…read more Good selection of beverages. Really friendly staff. Had a delicious Carmel Apple sour!

A tap room in Oelwein - with a fantastic selection of brews and mixed drinks. They don't have a…read morekitchen - so you are welcome to bring in your own food. We usually stop in just to enjoy a beer - or two - and chat with the bartender and other customers. Lots of seating - multiple televisions. If I lived in the area - I would be there for Hawkeye games - both football and women's basketball. Most recently we grabbed a pizza from Leo's and dragged my 98 yr old mother along to have a beer with our supper. She and I both enjoyed the pistachio and another draft which sadly - I can't remember the name. Regardless - come in to Ampersand. I'm sure you'll enjoy it!!

Dusty's Lounge is a vibe! I feel like I'm hanging out in my Midwestern grandpa's best friend's…read morebasement, but without the weird old man smell. The drinks are delish, regularly rotating taps, and while the food menu is limited, there are some all-stars that are sure to please! My food recommendations: Deviled eggs & pretzels The Grinder sandwich (ask for an extra side of the special sauce)

Classic lounge vibe. Deviled eggs and beer what more could…read moreyou ask for? A few good places to hop around in those few blocks.

Stopped by today after a long bike ride. Good food, cold beer and great service at a very…read morereasonable price.

For a small town bar, it was always a great place for a cold drink & hot food! It's the only bar…read moreI've been to that has a jail cell inside!