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Uptown Food & Beverage Co. bar and grill in Ankeny, IA
Photo: Uptown Food & Beverage Co.
View of Uptown Food & Beverage Co. in Ankeny, IA
Photo: Uptown Food & Beverage Co.
View of Uptown Food & Beverage Co. in Ankeny, IA
Photo: Ashton Smith, REALTOR

Uptown Food & Beverage Co.

4.5(809 reviews)$$Restaurant
🕑 45 minutes to 1.5 hours for dining, potentially 2-3 hours if combined with exploring downtown Ankeny👶 Best for all ages. The diverse menu appeals to picky eaters and adventurous kids alike, while the downtown location offers post-meal entertainment options that toddlers through teens can enjoy, from window shopping to community events.

About

Uptown Food & Beverage Co. is a versatile family dining spot in Ankeny's walkable downtown district, offering everything from pizza to American classics in a relaxed, kid-friendly atmosphere. After your meal, families can easily explore the surrounding shops, catch seasonal Movies in the Park events, or visit nearby Firetrucker Brewery's family-friendly spaces, making it an ideal anchor for a full family outing.

Highlights

  • Diverse menu with Italian, American, and pizza options to satisfy every family member
  • Prime location in walkable downtown district for post-meal strolls
  • Proximity to community events like Movies in the Park
  • Casual bar & grill atmosphere that's welcoming to families
  • Later hours on weekends (until 11:00 PM) accommodate flexible family schedules

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive early on Friday and Saturday evenings (5:00-6:00 PM) to avoid the dinner rush and secure a table without a long wait.
  2. 2.Ask for a table near the windows so kids can people-watch along the downtown street, keeping them entertained while waiting for food.
  3. 3.Check Ankeny's community calendar before visiting,timing your meal with Movies in the Park or other downtown events makes for a memorable family evening.
  4. 4.The pizza is a consistent crowd-pleaser with kids; consider ordering it as an appetizer to keep little ones happy while adults browse the full menu.
  5. 5.Park in the public lots behind the main street for easier access with strollers and car seats.

Best Time to Visit

Weekday lunchtimes (11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Tuesday-Thursday) offer a quieter dining experience perfect for families with younger children. Weekend evenings are livelier and great for families who enjoy a bustling atmosphere and want to explore downtown afterward.

What to Know

With moderate pricing ($$) and a varied menu including kid favorites like pizza, this spot accommodates families on most budgets. Note that they're closed Sundays, so plan accordingly for weekend visits.

Seasonal Notes

Summer months offer the best overall experience with warm weather perfect for exploring downtown before or after meals and frequent outdoor community events. Check local listings for seasonal Movies in the Park and downtown festivals that pair perfectly with dinner here.

More Activities Near Ankeny

Community Center

AMP - Ankeny Market & Pavilion

4.7Free

AMP - Ankeny Market & Pavilion transforms Saturday mornings into a vibrant community experience where families can browse fresh produce from local farmers, enjoy food from diverse food trucks, and let kids bop along to live entertainment. This open-air market offers a relaxed atmosphere where children can learn about where their food comes from while parents shop for farm-fresh goodies, making it both educational and delicious.

Adventure

High Trestle Trail

Free

The High Trestle Trail offers 25 miles of smooth, paved pathways perfect for family bike rides through scenic Iowa landscapes. The crown jewel is the stunning 13-story high bridge that lights up at night with blue LED lights, creating a magical experience kids will never forget. Whether you bike the full trail or just a portion, this well-maintained route provides safe, car-free cycling fun for the whole family.

Library

Ankeny Kirkendall Public Library

4.8Free

Ankeny Kirkendall Public Library is a fantastic free destination for families, featuring a spacious and modern children's section designed to spark young imaginations. With regular story times, engaging summer reading programs, and interactive learning spaces, this highly-rated library offers much more than just books,it's a community hub where kids can explore, learn, and play in a welcoming environment.

Ice Cream

Dari Barn

4.7$

A beloved Ankeny institution since 1947, Dari Barn is the quintessential old-fashioned ice cream stand that brings families back generation after generation. Kids love choosing from hand-dipped cones, colorful sundaes, and thick shakes in a nostalgic setting that makes every visit feel special. The casual outdoor atmosphere means you don't have to worry about little ones being too messy or loud.