Had dinner at the Iowa Stater last Wednesday evening. Gateway Center hotel was full-up, but got one of the last two rooms at the very nearby Radisson on a last-minute decision.
Booked online for a table (have to book 1/2 hr in advance online), assuming that the restaurant, like the hotel, would be packed. Went early, got right in, pleasantly surprised to see only two other diners and a quiet drink party at the bar.
Demetrius was the maitre d' and bartender (he makes a grand gin and tonic), and Maddy (Maddie?) was our server. They were both wonderful, efficient and friendly. We each had the bistro filet (a steal for $24 - how do they do it?), and, let me tell you, the roasted brussel sprouts that came with were out of this world. And yes, the corn chowder as a starter...lemme tell ya, you HAVE to go and order some of that creamy chowder, made with corn, and big chunks of ham and potatoes. Even in summer, it is just a superb dish.
Towards the end of our meal, in came a rather large party of folks from a conference, and they were having a great time. Both Demetrius and Maddie came to our table to apologize for the noise, but you know what? Those diners weren't talking that loudly nor pontificating about right-wing politics, and it was rather refreshing to overhear a group of professionals having a good time socializing.
The Radisson was comfortable, clean and quiet, but their bar and restaurant are closed due to Covid. No problem for us; we already knew we wanted to eat "next door".
All in all, a great evening!
You folks who live in or near Ames, why aren't you there every night? Then again, maybe you just go later...after Happy Hour.
