Welcome to Frontier Cafe
Frontier Cafe, nestled at 831 Main St, Grinnell, IA, embodies the spirit of community dining. This charming eatery offers a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for food enthusiasts seeking comfort and flavor. With a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, Frontier Cafe serves up an array of delicious dishes that celebrate both traditional and contemporary cuisine. From hearty breakfasts to delightful lunches, each plate is crafted with care, ensuring satisfaction in every bite. The friendly staff and cozy ambiance enhance the dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone in the area. Discover your new favorite comfort food at Frontier Cafe!
- 831 Main St, Grinnell, IA 50112, United States831 Main St, Grinnell, IA 50112, United States Hotline: +1 641-236-0630
Welcome to Frontier Cafe, a charming culinary jewel nestled in the heart of Grinnell, Iowa, at 831 Main St. This cafe embodies the spirit of community dining, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere where the love for food and friendships blend seamlessly.
At Frontier Cafe, every dish tells a story. The menu is a delightful mix of classic comfort food and innovative offerings, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The commitment to quality is evident in every bite, whether you're indulging in a hearty breakfast or a leisurely lunch. Standouts include their fluffy pancakes that melt in your mouth and gourmet sandwiches bursting with flavor.
What truly sets Frontier Cafe apart is its dedication to creating an experience, not just a meal. The cafe is adorned with rustic decor that reflects the frontier spirit, making it the perfect spot for gathering with friends or savoring a quiet moment alone. Each visit feels like a homecoming, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods welcomes you through the door.
Don’t miss the chance to try their signature dishes, which are not just meals but an exploration of taste. The friendly staff enhances your visit with personalized service, making every customer feel like a valued member of the Frontier family. With a phone call away at +1 641-236-0630, planning your next visit is a breeze.
So, if you find yourself in Grinnell, let the warmth of Frontier Cafe wrap around you. This is more than a dining experience; it’s an invitation to indulge in flavorful dishes while connecting with the community. Join me in celebrating the simple joys of life—one plate at a time.

Now THIS is what I call a hidden gem! We pulled into town for my nephew’s graduation, stomachs growling and expectations low, but Frontier Cafe blew the doors off anything we could’ve imagined. This place is more than a restaurant. It’s a sanctuary of flavor, a culinary hotspot in the middle of small-town America. Despite the place being packed wall-to-wall with locals (always a good sign), we were seated in under 10 minutes. That alone deserves applause. But then came the service. Warm, genuine, and faster than a caffeinated jackrabbit. The staff treated us like family, not just another table. Now let’s talk FOOD. I ordered the meat lover’s skillet and I swear to you, it was a practically religious experience. Eggs perfectly done, hashbrowns crisped just right, and the meats— oh, the glorious meats —stacked like they were preparing me for battle. One bite and I nearly wept. It touched my soul, y’all. I could hear a faint country ballad in the background and feel my ancestors nodding in approval. Clean, cozy, and utterly unforgettable. If you ever find yourself within a 50-mile radius of Frontier Cafe, drop everything and go. Tell ‘em the skillet sent you. Five stars? Try TEN.

I had an excellent breakfast here. Really enjoyed it. I was in Grinnell just the one day to visit Brownell's, and choose this restaurant because of the good reviews. I was not misled. Food was cooked well. Coffee was good. Service was cheerful. A great experience. #Recommended.

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.

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

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.

We visited for a Saturday brunch. The food was delicious. Highly recommend the chicken crisp melt and the country skillet. And the raspberry tea is delicious. The service was excellent.

One of our favorite restaurants. We drive 33 minutes just to come here and always worth the drive. Pancakes are incredible flavor and consistency.