Local Flavors

Red barn on a farm with an American flag flying on a flagpole in front. There is a wooden fence, some farm equipment, a pumpkin on grass, and a cloudy sky during sunset.
Cows resting on a grassy field during a sunset.
Blue award ribbon with a circular center that reads "1st Place Cheese Curds" and two ribbon tails labeled "Iowa State Fair" and "Hinterland Dairy".
Pumpkins and gourds arranged in piles on a farm in front of a barn with a cloudy sky overhead.
Award badge with the text '2024 Award Winner' surrounded by the reversed text 'Download Tourism' and decorated with blue stars.
An older man in yellow waterproof overalls, a black T-shirt, a cap, and orange gloves is leaning over the side of a boat, using a fishing net in the water during sunset or sunrise.
Display of assorted melons including watermelons, cantaloupes, honeydews, and other melons arranged outdoors on straw and wood surfaces.
Freshly baked rustic bread rolls with scored tops, dusted with flour, cooling on a wire rack.
A bison calf standing next to a larger bison in a muddy enclosure with green grass and trees in the background.
People gathered outdoors under trees and a pavilion, setting up and enjoying a community market or fair on a sunny day.

Area Farmer’s Markets

Table set with glasses, cutlery, napkins, a floral centerpiece with sunflowers, and a menu at a formal event or restaurant
A jar of honey, a container of honey cinnamon quark cheese, and a glass of what appears to be frozen honey cinnamon quark cheese on a wooden surface outdoors with green grass in the background.
Logo for J & L Farms in Iowa featuring a barn, grass, a curved banner with "Premium Goods," and two crossed paddles.
Fried fish sandwich with pickles, onions, and bread bun on a green plate.

Must Haves

A vintage-style red and black text logo for Sterzings Potato Chips on a beige background.

Welcome to Fort Madison, where the heartland's bounty meets culinary delight! Explore our rich tapestry of flavors, woven from the fields of golden corn, pastures of cattle and majestic elk, oink-filled pig farms, and the bountiful waters of the mighty Mississippi River. Here, amidst rolling pastures and rustic barns, join us in celebrating the harmony of farm life, where every bite tells a story. We believe that the essence of a place is best explored through its flavors, and we invite you to embark on a gastronomic journey unlike any other.

Our culinary offerings go beyond just food – they're a reflection of our culture, history, and way of life. Savor the warmth of our hospitality as you dine with locals, sharing stories and laughter over plates piled high with regional specialties. Whether you're craving a tenderloin sandwich the size of a plate, cheesy goodness of Casey’s pizza or the succulent flavors of our freshly caught Mississippi River catfish, you'll find it all here in Southeast Iowa. Come experience the culinary wonders of the heartland and taste the true essence of Iowa.

Local Drinks

Five bottles of Green Frog distillery corn whiskey, variety flavors and ages, arranged on a wooden surface with vintage posters in the background.

WHISKEY

A woman and a man standing inside a rustic cellar or storage room with large wine barrels behind them. Both are wearing plaid shirts and smiling at the camera.

WINE

Sign for Lost Duck Brewing Co. featuring a flying duck illustration.

BEER

The Fort Madison area is proud to offer unique beverages that highlight the region's local ingredients and craftsmanship. From Green Frog Distillery, you can enjoy finely crafted whiskeys, made with locally sourced grains that provide a smooth, rich taste and capture the essence of the area’s distilling tradition. Christian Herschler Winery brings you wines that celebrate Iowa’s fertile soil, with each bottle offering a blend of locally grown grapes and fruits, perfect for savoring the flavors of the land. And for craft beer enthusiasts, Lost Duck Brewing Co. offers a variety of brews made from regional ingredients, ranging from refreshing IPAs to bold stouts, each one reflecting creativity and passion of the brewer. Together, these establishments bring the unique flavors of Fort Madison to your glass, offering an unforgettable local drinking experience.

Local Recipes. Local Ingredients.

Person cooking in a kitchen with fresh vegetables including lettuce, carrots, radishes, and tomatoes on the counter.

Coming Soon!

Sourdough Bread
Artisan Cheese
Iowa Corn
Iowa Pork
Mississippi Fish
Mexican Heritage