For more than seven decades, Hamburg Inn No. 2 has stood as a symbol of Midwestern comfort food, small-town charm, and American tradition. Located in Iowa City, Iowa, this humble diner has served generations of students, locals, travelers, and even presidents — all drawn by its simple promise: hearty homemade cooking that never goes out of style.
A Slice of Iowa History
Hamburg Inn No. 2 first opened its doors in 1948, founded by the Panther family. What began as a modest neighborhood café soon became a community hub known for its affordable meals and welcoming atmosphere.
The “No. 2” in its name comes from the fact that it was the second location after the original Hamburg Inn in downtown Iowa City. While the first eventually closed, No. 2 not only survived but became the true heart of the brand — and an Iowa legend.
The Diner That Presidents Visit
Over the years, Hamburg Inn No. 2 has gained national attention for hosting presidential candidates during the Iowa caucuses.
- Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden have all made campaign stops here.
- Its iconic “Coffee Bean Caucus” — where customers vote by placing a coffee bean in jars labeled with candidates’ names — has become a quirky Iowa political tradition.
This connection between politics and pancakes has turned the diner into a must-visit stop for journalists, campaign teams, and political tourists alike.
The Food: Comfort, Consistency, and Community
At the heart of Hamburg Inn’s enduring success is its commitment to homemade cooking. The menu reads like a love letter to American diner food:
- Signature omelets and hash browns for breakfast
- Classic burgers and sandwiches for lunch
- Homemade pies and shakes that have achieved near-mythical status among regulars
The diner’s most famous creation might be the Pie Shake — a milkshake blended with an entire slice of pie. It’s rich, nostalgic, and unapologetically indulgent, perfectly reflecting the spirit of the restaurant itself.
A Gathering Place for Everyone
Part of the Hamburg Inn’s charm is its diverse clientele. On any given morning, you might see University of Iowa students studying over coffee, longtime locals reading the newspaper, and out-of-town visitors snapping photos of the famous counter booths.
The staff’s friendly familiarity gives it a family-like feeling — one that many say hasn’t changed in decades.
Surviving the Test of Time
Few family-run restaurants make it past 10 years, let alone 75. Hamburg Inn No. 2 has survived economic ups and downs, changes in ownership, and even temporary closures — but every time, the community has helped bring it back to life.
Its longevity lies in its authenticity: the recipes are traditional, the service is personal, and the atmosphere is timeless. Even as new restaurants appear around it, Hamburg Inn remains a comforting constant.
More Than a Diner — A Cultural Landmark
Today, Hamburg Inn No. 2 isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a living piece of American history. It represents the resilience of family businesses, the nostalgia of small-town America, and the enduring power of food to connect people.
As it celebrates over 75 years in operation, it continues to do what it has always done best — serve simple, homemade meals with heart.