'Business Insider' Names 'Most Iconic' Diner in Iowa

This week, Business Insider published a list of the most iconic diners in every state in America. Those who have spent time in Des Moines will surely recognize the local fixture they chose to represent the state of Iowa.

Since 1987, Drake Diner has been serving multiple generations of customers in the Des Moines metro. "Only One Original" is what their website claims before contextualizing their origin story. Drake Diner is family owned and operated and boasts "the friendliest, most awesome staff in town."

What Makes Drake Diner So Special:

You have to figure a significant part of what makes Drake Diner so successful is the fact that it's located south of the Drake University campus. It's not a hot take to believe that college students congregate there for early morning breakfast, late-night study sessions, or just a general break from campus camaraderie.

One of the unique attributes of Drake Diner is the fact that the eatery serves breakfast all day long, from open to close. Considering they're open till 10pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, eating pancakes, waffles, and more breakfast food late into the evening undoubtedly makes this restaurant a huge draw.

**What Did Business Insider Say About Drake Diner?:**

Here's what Business Insider had to say about Drake Diner:

Drake Diner is a retro-style neighborhood favorite located near Drake University. The lively spot is known for its comfort-food menu, creative milkshakes, and classic diner vibes, drawing both students and locals - per Business Insider

Per the website DM City View, notable menu options at Drake Diner include chicken and waffles (my #1 favorite breakfast dish), corned beef hash, pumpkin pancakes, and chicken-fried steak with eggs. They also have "waffle dogs on a stick," which sound odd but also incredibly delicious.