The Youngville Cafe

4.3 (34 reviews )
$$
American Restaurant
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Lunch
+(4)

About The Youngville Cafe

The Youngville Cafe is a small American restaurant located at 2409 73rd St, Watkins, IA. It operates on a limited schedule, open only on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to early afternoon, and closes during colder months. The cafe is run by volunteers and accepts cash payments only.

Customers often highlight the cafe's homemade pies, reasonable prices, and generous lunch portions. The menu includes sandwiches, soups, and classic pies, including unique options like raisin creme pie. The atmosphere reflects a historical setting, appreciated by visitors seeking a quiet, nostalgic dining stop along US Highway 30. Limited hours can make access challenging, but the friendly volunteer staff and the cafe's quaint environment remain key features.

Reviews (34) 4.3

  • Annette Rubin
    Mar 13,2026

    Best pie for miles around! Absolute gold mine. Delicious, well priced, and good lunch portions. Historic site, too!

  • Swamp Rat
    Mar 13,2026

    Many, many years ago I used to sit and drink coffee on the table outside this cafe, watching the old Fords drive down US Highway 30. The fact that this building still stands warms my old heart. Between here and the old King's Tower (Built in Tama around the same town.) Some of the old Iowa remains.

  • Kevin Birkhofer
    Mar 13,2026

    A you have to visit historical place. Open only Tuesdays and Thursdays 11 to 1:00. Friendly volunteers, good food and pie. Closes once the weather turns cold.

  • Mike Ahart
    Mar 13,2026

    First ‘Will Hop’ giving 1 -star? ~ moron Volunteers keep this jewel going. Historical landmark! Great staff

  • Angel Stover
    Mar 13,2026

    Food was tasty! They even had raisin creme pie, something I haven't ate since before my grandma passed away. Memories. Oh I also had regular tea, tastwd like my grandma's sun brewed tea!! Win win. Ran by volunteers. Check it out, and prices are extremely reasonable. Only open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 am to 1:30 pm.

  • Dixie Hansen
    Mar 13,2026

    I have enjoyed their sandwiches, soup & homemade pies. Wish their hours were open longer sometimes hard to get there during limited open hours.

  • Stephanie Barker
    Mar 13,2026

    A very unique experience. Learned some history and had a meal in one stop. The volunteers were excellent on such a busy day. We really enjoyed ourselves. A highlight on our vacation. We visited on 7/25/2023.

  • Matt G.
    Mar 13,2026

    A wonderful experience, it's like stepping back into the 1930's. Historical roadside heritage at it's finest. The food was good and the people were friendly. You just don't see places like this anymore, a huge thanks to the volunteers who keep it open. Worth the detour off I-80 for lunch if passing through on a Tuesday or Thursday. Cash only!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are some popular dishes at The Youngville Cafe?

    The pie is a favorite, especially the homemade raisin creme pie, along with sandwiches, soup, and comfort food classics.

  • Can I make a reservation, or is it walk-in only?

    The cafe accepts reservations, but given its limited hours, it's a good idea to plan ahead.

  • Do they offer dine-in and takeaway options?

    Yes, you can enjoy your meal either dining in or taking your food to go.

  • What is the atmosphere like at The Youngville Cafe?

    The cafe has a cozy, historic vibe with friendly volunteers, making it a great spot for tourists and locals alike.

  • Is parking available and how can I pay?

    There is free street parking and a free parking lot, but the cafe only accepts cash payments.

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