Support your local businesses

DECORAH — Despite the frigid weather, Decorah's 2nd Annual Restaurant Week is in full swing. The weeklong event, hosted by the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce, continues to invite locals and visitors alike to celebrate the culinary community. From January 20-26, food lovers have the perfect opportunity to savor special deals, uncover new favorite dishes, and experience unique culinary creations at a variety of local eateries. The week is dedicated to celebrating the creativity and hard work of the beloved restaurant owners who make the Decorah dining scene so vibrant. One of the participating establishments is the Sabin Family Table. Since purchasing the restaurant in November 2023, Corey and Amanda Sabin have focused on bringing hearty, comforting meals to their guests—focusing on scratch-made dishes and classic comfort food. Located in a cozy corner of Decorah, this family-owned diner is a go-to for all-day breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their featured special for Restaurant Week is a slow-roasted brisket poutine, a dish that combines crinkle-cut fries, WW Homestead Dairy's garlic and dill cheese curds, rich beef gravy, and slow-cooked beef brisket—all for just $10.49. Corey, who worked at the Family Table for seven years prior to taking ownership, knows exactly what customers love. "We've built a large prep area and are in the process of updating 35-year-old kitchen equipment to make this place the best it can be," he says. "Restaurant Week is a great way to showcase what makes this community so special. It's nice to see everyone out and about, even when it's cold." Water Street Deli, another Restaurant Week participant, opened its doors in 2022 and has gained a following for its thoughtfully curated menu of seasonal deli items and crafted pantry selections. Owner and chef Logan Clements brings his passion for high-quality meats, cheeses, and Mediterranean flavors to every dish. For Restaurant Week, Water Street Deli is offering an Italian meatball sandwich for $14.99, featuring homemade Italian meatballs made with ground beef, veal, pork, and pecorino Romano cheese, all served on a toasted hoagie roll with arugula, mozzarella and a house-made tomato sauce. Local voices matter. Help us amplify them by contributing to your local newsroom. As a business with a strong tourist clientele, Water Street Deli's participation in Restaurant Week offers an opportunity to attract more locals. "Events like these are beneficial because they stir up local interest and allow us to showcase our food to people who might not otherwise try it," says Clements. His seasonal menus bring a taste of Italy to Decorah, and whether you're a regular or a first-timer, the Italian Meatball Sandwich is a must-try during Restaurant Week. For craft beer lovers and foodies alike, Dixie's Biergarten has a lot to offer. With 31 taps showcasing the best of Iowa's craft beer and cider scene, along with a brand new menu of fresh, seasonal dishes, Dixie's has quickly become an appreciated spot for locals. Owners Jordyn and Nicholas Harless, who took over the business in April 2024, have infused the space with their shared passion for good food and drink. During Restaurant Week, Dixie's is featuring two specials: smashburger tacos (two tacos with hand-cut fries for $15) and a wings 'n fries combo—buy a dozen wings, get a basket of hand-cut fries for free. "Adding food to our offerings was a great way for us to lean into our passion for food while expanding the business and bringing something fun and exciting to the community," says Jordyn. "Our menu has been in the works for quite some time, and it consists of items that we are passionate about eating and also sharing with others." Running a food and beverage business in a rural area has its challenges, but Jordyn and Nicholas are grateful for the strong support they've received from the Decorah community. "Our loyal customer base is the key to our success," says Jordyn. "It is crucial that you not only capture customers' attention [who] are new to town, but that you have a focus on those that support the business week in and week out. We also could not run our business successfully without our amazing staff. "Whether new or tenured, our staff is willing to help out, learn and grow through all the changes and challenges that come with being in a rural area." The Dixie's team is also looking forward to their first menu refresh in February, with added kitchen hours, appetizers and mains. Together, they are looking forward to what's ahead. "We appreciate the support and spotlight that the Chamber has provided to us and other business owners in Decorah, especially during the slow season," says Jordyn. "It truly embodies the community spirit that being a business owner in Decorah is all about." For a full list of participating restaurants and their special offerings, visit the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce website at www.decorahareachamber.com. Stay ahead of the curve! Subscribe to free newsletters for exclusive insights, local trends and analysis delivered straight to your inbox.

Support your local businesses

Decorah's 2nd Annual Restaurant Week Brings Flavor, Fun, and Community Spirit Despite Winter Chill