Canteen Lunch in the Alley

4.8 ( 1120 reviews )
Checking... See Hours
$1–10
112 2nd St E, Ottumwa, IA 52501, United States
+1 641-682-5320
Canteen Lunch in the Alley is a beloved sandwich shop located in the heart of Ottumwa, Iowa, and it's clear from customer reviews that this establishment is not just about food — it’s an experience. Diners rave about the iconic loose meat sandwiches, likening them to a nostalgic Maidrite but claiming they stand out with unmatched flavor. Patrons also appreciate the welcoming atmosphere, marked by the friendly staff who give a nod to a simpler era, where community and good company flourish. The menu boasts a range of comforting options, including hot dogs, egg sandwiches, and a generous array of homemade pies. The crowd-pleasing French silk and peach pies have garnered multiple glowing mentions, often served warm with ice cream that elevates each bite. Most reviews highlight the affordability, with meals averaging around $20 per couple, making it an accessible treat for all. The well-designed horseshoe-shaped bar fosters an intimate setting for conversations, inviting diners to forge connections over their meals. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, Canteen Lunch in the Alley promises not just a meal, but a heartwarming slice of Americana that will linger long after you've left. If you’re in Ottumwa, a visit here isn't just recommended; it's essential.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • No wheelchair-accessible seating
    • No wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Offers kerbside pickup
    • On-site services available
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
    • No delivery
  • Highlights
    • Has fast service
    • Serves great coffee
    • Serves great dessert
  • Popular for
    • Popular for lunch
    • Popular for dinner
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves coffee
    • Serves comfort food
    • Quick bite
  • Dining options
    • Serves lunch
    • Serves dinner
    • Serves dessert
    • Has seating
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
    • Historic
    • Trendy
  • Crowd
    • Popular with tourists
    • Popular with university students
  • Planning
    • Doesn't accept reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
  • Parking
    • Free of charge street parking
    • Free parking lot
    • Plenty of parking

Reviews For Canteen Lunch in the Alley

Ellen Paullin
May 9,2025
So FUN!!!! Stumbled on this on a spontaneous trip through Ottumwa. What a treat. Seating for 16 all around a diner horseshoe shape bar. Food prepared in the middle. Loose meat sandwiches, hot dogs, burgers, egg sandwiches, all served in a no fuss environment. Great food. I had a canteen with cheese and pickle- bf had egg sandwich with the works. Shared a piece of French silk pie and strawberry malt. Busy place! Lots of to go orders and people waiting for seats the whole time. Generous staff so service was prompt anyway. I think we paid around 20 before tip. Neat experience!!!
shawn maloney
Apr 27,2025
An absolutely delicious place to stop. Parking is limited but alot of street parking. When we walked in we where greeted by the most friendly and delightful women. They explained the menu and invited us to take a seat. We watched as they crafted the most perfect loose hamburger meat sandwiches. Similar to a Maidrite in design. The comparison to Maidrite was over once I tool the first bite. The meat with the pickles and just right amount of ketchup and mustard was so delicious. I finished my first sandwich and wanted a second one so bad but had my eye in a piece of peach pie... if the pie is as good as the burger is would be in heaven.. the ladies asked if I wanted it warm, yes! Asked if I wanted ice cream? Of course! And oh my god.... the slice was big with 2 scoopes of real ice cream.... you owe it to yourself to stop and meet the incredible ladies at the Canteen and you will not be disappointed
Cooper Vittetoe
Apr 25,2025
The Canteen is a staple of life in Ottumwa, and as someone who grew up coming to Ottumwa every weekend and ate this regularly I can say this is the best of the best and a must eat if you’re in Ottumwa. If you came and didn’t have it, turn around and go get yourself one! There’s something so special about this place that’s hard to put to words for me! What helps is to simply try the food and you’ll fall in love immediately! My go to is one with ketchup, cheese and onion but you can’t go wrong with any combo of their toppings! Oh and save some room for a big slice of pie!
Vern Riedel
Apr 5,2025
If you've never been, you need to go. The beef sandwich is awesome. Great people that make a pretty awesome atmosphere. It's definitely a historic place. Also very reasonably priced.
Jeff Smalla
Mar 8,2025
You have got to adore this small slice of historical Americana! Food was great. Prices were great. Service was great. But none of those is why you go to the Canteen. Step back into small town 1920's where everybody knew everybody, people could count on each other, life was simple and happiness was not impossible to find. THAT is why you should visit the Canteen! There are 12-15 stools around a horseshoe-shaped bar. Everyone interacts with everyone else including the waitresses. A big percentage of the customers have nicknames bestowed upon them by the staff. Once you get in (and it could take a bit, depending on the crowd) you might want to just stay and hang out with your new best friends. Of course you'll eat one or two Canteens but do your best not to miss the strawberry rhubarb pie. If you follow your waitress's recommendations, you'll have it warmed up and ala mode. Meet me back in the 1920's and enjoy your time at the Canteen!!
Tyler Hirl
Feb 28,2025
Iowa Classic that has to be tried by every Iowan. It was tasty and the folks working were great. They follow the KISS method and i absolutely love it.
Amanda
Feb 2,2025
Definitely an experience you can’t miss while in Ottumwa. Get a shake, they’re delicious.
K VW (Katylinvw)
Jan 29,2025
Had a wonderful lunch at the Canteen today! My husband grew up in the area, and remembers fondly visiting with his grandparents. He said it hasn’t changed in 30 years! Sweet waitresses, quick service, delicious food, and a nostalgic atmosphere that can’t be beat!

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