Frontier Cafe

Welcome to Frontier Cafe, a delightful gem nestled in the heart of Grinnell, Iowa, at 831 Main St. This charming cafe, known for its comforting atmosphere and exceptional food, has garnered a loyal following from locals and visitors alike. With a passion for serving hearty meals that evoke feelings of nostalgia, Frontier Cafe promises a satisfying culinary experience that will leave you smiling.

The reviews speak volumes. Guests consistently rave about the friendly waitstaff and the extensive menu that caters to all tastes. Shelly Winter, a satisfied customer, praised the variety of choices, especially noting the thoughtful specialty menu for veterans and seniors. She also highlighted the enticing pie selection—proof that Frontier Cafe doesn’t just serve meals; they serve home-cooked memories.

As echoed by Matthew Whitt, Frontier Cafe embodies a sense of small-town charm, offering "hometown goodness" at reasonable prices. The portions are generous, making it easy to indulge in comfort food classics. Robert Roos, a regular patron since 2015, claims that the cafe is well worth the drive, thanks to its warm atmosphere and delicious offerings like their famed chili and cheeseburgers. The mention of the quirky bathroom signs adds a touch of fun, reinforcing that dining here is not just about the food—it's about the experience.

  • Menu Highlights: The Classic Club Sandwich, Chicken Crisp Melt, and the hearty meat lover’s skillet are popular choices that keep patrons returning for more.
  • Atmosphere: With a cozy setup and friendly vibes, the cafe radiates warmth, making it perfect for a casual brunch or a comforting dinner.
  • Service: The staff’s genuine hospitality further elevates the dining experience, creating a sense of belonging for every guest.

Each dish is prepared with care, ensuring a blend of flavors that are both satisfying and memorable. Whether you're savoring a warm bowl of chili or a freshly made sandwich, the flavors at Frontier Cafe resonate with heartwarming familiarity. As Yeti Norvell noted, the service is quick and friendly—an essential ingredient in the recipe for a great meal.

If you find yourself wandering through Grinnell or simply looking for a place that feels like home, Frontier Cafe is the destination to satisfy your cravings and nourish your spirit. As Marcus Gaffen eloquently put it, it’s a “sanctuary of flavor” that deserves your visit. So go ahead, drop by Frontier Cafe—tell them the skillet sent you! Your taste buds will thank you.

Menu

Location

Address: 831 Main St, Grinnell, IA 50112, United States
Phone: +1 641-236-0630

🕓 Work Hours
MON 7:30 AM - 8:00 PM
TUE 7:30 AM - 3:00 PM
WED 7:30 AM - 8:00 PM
THU 7:30 AM - 8:00 PM
FRI 7:30 AM - 8:00 PM
SAT 7:30 AM - 8:00 PM
SUN 7:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Business info

  • Wheelchair-accessible Car Park
    Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible Entrance
    Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible Seating
    Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible Toilet
    Yes
  • Offers Takeaway
    Yes
  • Serves Dine-in
    Yes
  • Delivery
    No
  • Serves Great Coffee
    Yes
  • Serves Great Dessert
    Yes
  • Great Tea Selection
    Yes
  • Popular For Breakfast
    Yes
  • Popular For Lunch
    Yes
  • Popular For Dinner
    Yes
  • Good For Solo Dining
    Yes
  • Serves Coffee
    Yes
  • Serves Comfort Food
    Yes
  • Serves Healthy Options
    Yes
  • Quick Bite
    Yes
  • Serves Small Plates
    Yes
  • Serves Breakfast
    Yes
  • Serves Brunch
    Yes
  • Serves Lunch
    Yes
  • Serves Dinner
    Yes
  • Serves Dessert
    Yes
  • Seating
    Yes
  • Toilet
    Yes
  • Wi-Fi
    Yes
  • Free Wi-Fi
    Yes
  • Casual
    Yes
  • Cosy
    Yes
  • Trendy
    Yes
  • Family Friendly
    Yes
  • Good For Groups
    Yes
  • Popular With Tourists
    Yes
  • Popular With University Students
    Yes
  • Accepts Reservations
    Yes
  • Accepts Credit Cards
    Yes
  • Accepts Debit Cards
    Yes
  • Accepts NFC Mobile Payments
    Yes
  • Credit Cards
    Yes
  • Good For Kids
    Yes
  • High Chairs Available
    Yes
  • Kids' Menu
    Yes
  • Free Of Charge Street Parking
    Yes
  • Free Parking Lot
    Yes
  • Plenty Of Parking
    Yes

Last Reviews

  • Author: Shelly Winter

    27 May 2025

    Great food & friendly waitstaff. Menu had choices for everyone. I ran out of room, but pie selection looked good. Even though I am not one, I liked that they had a specialty menu section for Veterans & Seniors. Would definitely recommend.

  • Author: Matthew Whitt

    22 May 2025

    Great food. Huge menu. Reasonable prices. Big drinks! Great waitress. Will definitely come back. Small town feel home town goodness.

  • Author: Robert Roos

    05 May 2025

    We have been going to the Frontier since we moved to Iowa in 2015. It is a small town cafe with a home comfort feel. When we need some really good food that reminds us of being kids, we drive over an hour to eat here. There is plenty of seating and plenty of people eating, and the staff is always friendly. I love the signs in the bathroom and it shows that they enjoy a fun atmosphere. The chili is some of the best you will ever have and if it’s cold outside, getting the chili and a cheeseburger just can’t be beat! My wife loves their Special Club and soup of the day. Homemade pies and deserts always look good but we are usually too full to get any.

  • Author: Yeti Norvell

    21 April 2025

    Had a Classic Club Sandwich with Fries & a cup of potato soup... it was perfect, fast & served with a friendly smile... ( Thanks Michelle C. )