Iowa has changed a lot over the years, and so have the purposes of its buildings. That’s certainly the case for one building in Des Moines, currently home to the Raccoon Forks Trading Co. Now an antique store, it was first built in 1920 to house the American Railway Express Company. Since then, it’s held a dairy company and various independent businesses. Located in the corner, in a space that used to be a horse stable, is Railroad Bill’s Dining Car. This hole-in-the-wall diner is one of the most innovative places to get a tasty breakfast or lunch in Des Moines, and it looks like a charming modern restaurant – with no trace of the fact that a century ago, it was hungry horses chowing down in here before they went off for deliveries!
You can find just about anything you want at Raccoon Forks Trading Company, an antique store in a historic building - including a great meal!
Raccoon Forks Trading Company/Facebook
At the corner of the building, in what used to be a small horse stable for the many travelers and merchants who used the railway building, you’ll find a small diner - Railroad Bill’s!
Railroad Bill’s Dining Car/Facebook
As you walk the halls to the diner, you’ll see many signs paying tribute to the old building’s roots.
Railroad Bill’s Dining Car/Facebook
Railroad Bill’s is a hole-in-the-wall, but the modern diner has some surprises up its sleeve.
Railroad Bill’s Dining Car/Facebook
Serving breakfast and lunch, the diner has become known for its inventive specials and its extensive vegan menu.
Railroad Bill’s Dining Car/Facebook
At breakfast, you’ll always be able to get some creative and filling omelets like this spinach-and-feta.
Railroad Bill’s Dining Car/Facebook
The delicious, sweet french toasts are the perfect breakfast option if you’ve got a big appetite and a sweet tooth.
Railroad Bill’s Dining Car/Facebook
For lunch, the menu shifts to large and filling sandwiches - usually served with crispy, salty fries.
Railroad Bill’s Dining Car/Facebook
This holiday ham sandwich, a tribute to the classic Monte Cristo, is surprisingly vegan - but carnivores might not know the difference!
Railroad Bill’s Dining Car/Facebook
Have you eaten at Railroad Bill’s Dining Car? Let us know about your trip to this hidden restaurant in Iowa in the comments section. If you want to pay a visit, you can find all the latest specials on Railroad Bill’s Facebook page, or visit the Raccoon Forks website for the full details on the building. For another hidden restaurant in Iowa, check out this countryside gem.
Raccoon Forks Trading Company/Facebook
Railroad Bill’s Dining Car/Facebook
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Address: Railroad Bill’s Dining Car, 621 Des Moines St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USAAddress: Raccoon Forks Trading Company, 621 Des Moines St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
