Canteen Lunch in the Alley - Ottumwa, IA

Across the state of Iowa they are called loose-meats, Maid-Rites, and even taverns, but the town of Ottumwa is dedicated to the canteen. Established in the 1920s, Canteen Lunch in the Alley has been serving up loose-meat sandwiches, rich milkshakes/malts, and homemade pies to generations of local folks.

100% Approval Rating (5 votes)

Overall: Worth planning a day around

Must Eats

Canteen ($2.00)

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie ($2.00)

Chocolate Malt ($2.00)

Written Reviews

ayersian

"Some call them taverns, others Maid-Rites, but those hungry for loose-meat sandwiches in Ottumwa are more likely to ask for a canteen instead. Canteen Lunch in the Alley has been around since the 1920s, serving up loose-meat sandwiches, rich milkshakes/malts, and ..." [Read More].

Logbooks

No Logbook Entries

Map & Directions

112-1/2 East 2nd Street, Ottumwa, IA
641-682-5320

Hours & Policies

Seasons:	Open Year Round
Meals Served:	Lunch
Operational Hours:	Always Call Ahead!
Credit Cards Accepted:	No
Alcohol Served:	No
Outdoor Seating:	No
Reservations Accepted:	No
Delivery Available:	No
Takeout Counters:	Yes

"This version of the loose-meat sandwich takes on the name of the establishment: the canteen."
ayersian

"With a soft, buttery homemade crust, strawberry rhubarb pie is a piece of pure early summer bliss."
ayersian

"Although the menu at the Canteen is pretty slim, it does include the option of shakes and malts."
ayersian

"The interior of this Ottumwa eatery is just as cozy as it looks from the outside."
ayersian

"Before the parking structure. Have had the pleasure of eating here many times as a kid growing up in Ottumwa, Iowa."
yvette_tower2005

"Not only is the Canteen in an alley, but it is tucked underneath a parking structure!"
ayersian