Hey guys! Are you looking for the best restaurants open right now in Dubuque, Iowa? You've come to the right place. Dubuque offers a vibrant culinary scene with a diverse range of dining options, from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants. Whether you're a local or just visiting, finding a great place to eat is essential. In this article, we'll explore some of the top restaurants that are currently open in Dubuque, ensuring you have a delightful dining experience. Let's dive in and discover the flavors of Dubuque!

Caroline's Restaurant

Caroline's Restaurant stands out as a top choice for anyone seeking a memorable dining experience in Dubuque. Known for its elegant ambiance and exceptional service, Caroline's offers a menu that blends classic American cuisine with contemporary flair. The restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, ensuring that each dish is fresh and full of flavor. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it perfect for a romantic dinner, a business lunch, or a special celebration.

The menu at Caroline's is carefully curated to cater to a variety of tastes. Start your meal with appetizers like the crispy calamari or the signature crab cakes, both of which are prepared with meticulous attention to detail. For the main course, you might consider the grilled steak, cooked to perfection and served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. Seafood lovers will appreciate the pan-seared scallops, which are tender and flavorful, complemented by a delicate lemon butter sauce. Vegetarian options are also available, such as the roasted vegetable risotto, a hearty and satisfying dish that showcases the best of local produce.

What sets Caroline's apart is not just the quality of the food but also the overall dining experience. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, always ready to offer recommendations or answer any questions you may have. The restaurant's interior is tastefully decorated, with soft lighting and comfortable seating, creating an intimate and relaxed setting. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a delicious meal, Caroline's Restaurant is a must-visit destination in Dubuque.

Timmerman's Supper Club

For a truly classic and nostalgic dining experience, Timmerman's Supper Club is the place to be. This iconic Dubuque establishment has been serving up delicious meals and creating lasting memories for generations. With its Supper Club ambiance, Timmerman's offers a unique blend of tradition and quality that keeps patrons coming back time and time again. If you're looking to step back in time and enjoy a hearty meal in a comfortable setting, Timmerman's is the perfect choice.

The menu at Timmerman's is a tribute to classic American cuisine, with a focus on hearty and flavorful dishes. Start your meal with their famous cheese spread, a local favorite that has been a staple on the menu for years. For the main course, you can't go wrong with their prime rib, slow-roasted to perfection and served with au jus and horseradish sauce. Other popular choices include the broasted chicken, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, and the pan-fried walleye, a regional specialty that is sure to delight seafood lovers.

Beyond the food, Timmerman's Supper Club is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff is friendly and attentive, always ready to make you feel at home. The restaurant's interior is decorated in a classic Supper Club style, with dim lighting, comfortable booths, and a cozy bar area. It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal with friends and family. Timmerman's is more than just a restaurant; it's a Dubuque institution that offers a taste of nostalgia and a truly memorable dining experience.

Brazen Open Kitchen + Bar

If you're in the mood for something modern and innovative, Brazen Open Kitchen + Bar is a must-try. This contemporary restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its open kitchen concept, allowing you to watch the chefs at work as they prepare your meal. Brazen is known for its creative menu, craft cocktails, and vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Whether you're looking for a casual dinner or a night out with friends, Brazen Open Kitchen + Bar is sure to impress.

The menu at Brazen is full of surprises, with dishes that showcase the chef's creativity and passion for food. Start your meal with appetizers like the crispy Brussels sprouts or the pork belly bao buns, both of which are bursting with flavor. For the main course, consider the pan-seared salmon, served with a quinoa salad and a lemon vinaigrette, or the braised short ribs, tender and flavorful, served with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables. Vegetarian options are also available, such as the grilled halloumi salad, a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a light meal.

In addition to its innovative menu, Brazen Open Kitchen + Bar is known for its craft cocktails. The bartenders are skilled at creating unique and delicious drinks that complement the food perfectly. Whether you're in the mood for a classic cocktail or something more adventurous, you're sure to find something you'll love. The restaurant's interior is modern and stylish, with an open kitchen that allows you to see the chefs at work. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, making it the perfect place to enjoy a night out with friends. Brazen Open Kitchen + Bar is a culinary gem in Dubuque that offers a dining experience like no other.

1st & Main

1st & Main emerges as a standout dining destination, celebrated for its contemporary American cuisine and vibrant social atmosphere. Positioned in the heart of Dubuque, this restaurant expertly merges modern culinary techniques with classic flavors, offering a menu brimming with diverse and appealing choices. Whether you're planning a relaxed brunch, a professional lunch, or an exciting dinner, 1st & Main offers a setting that is both stylish and inviting, perfectly suited for any occasion.

At 1st & Main, the menu is thoughtfully designed to highlight seasonal ingredients and innovative flavor combinations. Kick off your dining experience with delectable starters such as the tuna tartare or crispy calamari, each dish artfully presented and packed with vibrant flavors. For your main course, consider the grilled ribeye, cooked to your exact preference and accompanied by a medley of seasonal vegetables and savory mashed potatoes, or indulge in the pan-seared scallops, perfectly seared and enhanced with a lemon-butter sauce. Vegetarians will be delighted by the inventive options like the butternut squash risotto, a creamy and comforting dish that showcases the best of local produce.

More than just the exceptional quality of its food, 1st & Main excels in providing a holistic dining experience. The restaurant prides itself on its attentive and knowledgeable staff, always on hand to offer insightful recommendations and ensure a memorable visit. The ambiance of 1st & Main is sophisticated yet welcoming, with chic decor and a lively bar area that adds to its appeal. This makes it an ideal locale for those looking to enjoy a top-tier meal in a setting that is both trendy and comfortable. Whether it's for a casual get-together or a special celebration, 1st & Main promises an unforgettable dining experience in Dubuque.

The Yardarm

The Yardarm provides a distinctive and relaxed dining environment that captures the spirit of Dubuque's maritime history. Nestled along the Mississippi River, this casual eatery is celebrated for its fresh seafood, welcoming ambiance, and stunning river views. The Yardarm stands out as a prime location for those seeking to enjoy a meal in a setting that is both scenic and steeped in local charm, perfect for enjoying the flavors of the river.

The menu at The Yardarm specializes in seafood, offering a wide array of dishes that highlight the freshest catches. Begin your meal with renowned appetizers such as the steamed mussels or the crab-stuffed mushrooms, each bursting with maritime flavor. For the main course, you might opt for the grilled salmon, expertly prepared and accompanied by seasonal vegetables, or indulge in the classic fish and chips, a comforting favorite served with crispy fries. For those who prefer land-based fare, The Yardarm also offers options like juicy burgers and succulent steaks.

The allure of The Yardarm extends beyond its delectable menu; it's the overall experience that truly captivates. The restaurant boasts an inviting, nautical-themed decor that enhances its riverside setting, creating a cozy and engaging atmosphere. The outdoor seating area provides breathtaking views of the Mississippi River, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal on a sunny day. Complementing the picturesque setting, the staff is known for their friendly and attentive service, ensuring that every visit is memorable. Whether you're a local or a tourist, The Yardarm offers a quintessential Dubuque dining experience that you won't want to miss.

Conclusion

Dubuque, Iowa, boasts a diverse and vibrant culinary scene, with a plethora of restaurants open and ready to serve you. Whether you're in the mood for classic American fare, innovative cuisine, or fresh seafood, Dubuque has something to satisfy every palate. From the elegant ambiance of Caroline's Restaurant to the nostalgic charm of Timmerman's Supper Club, the modern vibes of Brazen Open Kitchen + Bar, the contemporary cuisine of 1st & Main, and the riverside charm of The Yardarm, Dubuque's restaurants offer a wide range of dining experiences. So, the next time you're looking for a great place to eat in Dubuque, be sure to check out these top restaurants. You won't be disappointed!