1
Potter’s Shoppe & Eatery
4.9(117 reviews)
Ames, IA
RestaurantUpdated September 2026
Best Restaurants in Ames, IA (2026)
Looking for a restaurant in Ames? We've compiled a list of the top 20 verified restaurants in Ames, IA based on ratings, reviews, and public business records.
102
Total Restaurants
20
Top Rated
4.6
Avg Rating
34,245
Total Reviews
Top 20 Restaurants in Ames, IA
2
El Jefe Authentic Mexican Cuisine
4.8(1,485 reviews)
Ames, IA
3
Lockwood Cafe
4.8(432 reviews)
Ames, IA
4
Clayton Farms Salads
4.8(411 reviews)
Ames, IA
5
Morning Bell Coffee Roasters
4.8(374 reviews)
Ames, IA
6
Blue Fish Hawaii Poke Bowl
4.8(178 reviews)
Ames, IA
7
The Cafe
4.7(2,058 reviews)
Ames, IA
8
The Mucky Duck Pub
4.7(1,817 reviews)
Ames, IA
9
Aunt Maude's
4.7(1,062 reviews)
Ames, IA
10
1+1 Restaurant & Tea
4.7(324 reviews)
Ames, IA
11
Wasabi Ames Somerset
4.7(210 reviews)
Ames, IA
12
Dublin Bay Irish Pub & Grill
4.6(2,074 reviews)
Ames, IA
13
El Azteca
4.6(1,755 reviews)
Ames, IA
14
Provisions Lot F
4.6(1,747 reviews)
Ames, IA
15
Cafe Beaudelaire
4.6(1,213 reviews)
Ames, IA
16
Burgie's Coffee | South Ames
4.6(667 reviews)
Ames, IA
17
Roni's Mac Bar - Ames
4.6(335 reviews)
Ames, IA
18
Hickory Park
4.5(6,871 reviews)
Ames, IA
19
Cornbred Barbecue
4.5(1,648 reviews)
Ames, IA
20
Flip'N Jacks Pancake House & Eatery
4.5(1,129 reviews)
Ames, IA
How We Chose These Restaurants
Our directory aggregates data from multiple public sources to compile the most comprehensive list of restaurants in Ames, IA. Here's how we evaluate and rank professionals:
- Public Licensing Records — We verify that each professional holds valid, up-to-date licenses and registrations in IA.
- NPI Registry & Business Records — For healthcare professionals, we cross-reference the National Provider Identifier registry. For other verticals, we use state business filings and industry databases.
- Customer Ratings & Reviews — We aggregate ratings from major review platforms to surface the highest-quality professionals.
- Completeness of Information — Professionals with verified contact details, addresses, and active online presence rank higher.
Tips for Choosing a Restaurant in Ames
Check Reviews & Ratings
Look for restaurants with consistently high ratings and a meaningful number of reviews. A restaurant with 4.5 stars and 100+ reviews is generally more reliable than one with 5 stars and only 2 reviews.
Verify Credentials
Always verify that the restaurant holds appropriate licenses for IA. Check with your state's licensing board for the most up-to-date information.
Compare Multiple Options
Don't settle for the first option. Contact at least 2-3 restaurants to compare services, availability, and pricing before making your decision.
Ask About Experience
Inquire about the restaurant's experience with your specific needs. Specialists who focus on particular areas may provide better outcomes than generalists.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many restaurants are in Ames, IA?
Our directory currently lists 102 verified restaurants in Ames, IA. This number is regularly updated as new professionals are added to our database.
What is the average rating for restaurants in Ames?
The average rating for restaurants in Ames, IA is 4.6 out of 5 stars, based on 34,245 total reviews across all listed professionals.
How do I choose the best restaurant in Ames?
Start by reviewing ratings and the number of reviews above. Look for professionals with consistent high marks and verified credentials. We recommend contacting 2-3 options to compare availability, services, and pricing.
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