When Hard Rock Hotel + Casino Chef de Cuisine Kelly Bunkers thinks of past Thanksgivings, he recalls the holidays spent with cousins at his grandmother's westside Sioux City home.
Of course, he also remembers the food.
Specifically, Bunkers' thoughts are drawn to the succulent turkey dinners and the traditional slice - or two -- of pumpkin pie that finish off such a feast.
Fast forward a few decades and see what he has in store for Main + Abbey's Thanksgiving Prix Fixe menu.
Simply put, this five-course, Turkey Day feast ain't no trip to Grandma's house!
Kelly Bunkers, chef de cuisine at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino's Main+Abbey restaurant.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
THANKSGIVING DINNER WITH A ROCK & ROLL ATTITUDE!
"Actually, Main + Abbey's Thanksgiving menu takes what is traditional and elevates it," Bunkers explained. "Or we go in another direction by adding items you'd ordinarily never see at Thanksgiving."
In other words, he wants to be a bit of a rock and roll renegade when it comes to holiday fine dining.Â
"Yeah, you could say that," Bunkers said while offering a sneak peek at the Nov. 26 menu.Â
FIVE-COURSE TURKEY DAY FEAST WITH PLENTY O' GOBBLE-GOBBLE!Â
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., M+A guests will be gobbling up an "Amuse Bouche" bounty that includes appetizers like deviled eggs (complete with avocado, feta and bagel seasoning) and mini tarts topped with a cranberry compote and baked brie.
For appetizers, guests can choose from such options as a Bavarian soft pretzel, crispy flatbread and stuffed mushrooms. For the next course, you can choose either a crispy Brussel Sprouts Caesar Salad, a baby beet salad or a butternut squash soup.Â
Kelly Bunkers, chef de cuisine at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino's Main+Abbey restaurant, is shown with a selection of items the restaurant prepared for a prix fixe Thanksgiving menu.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
OK, when it comes to M+A entrees, things do get a bit more interesting.
While a guest can order turkey, Bunkers will rev up the flavor profile by making it apple-smoked, creating a zesty cranberry sauce, smothering it with herbs and cramming the birdie with plenty o' brioche and pecan stuffing. Add a pile of gouda mashed potatoes and prepare for maximum Tryptophan action.
SOME HIGH-ROLLING FAVES, PLUS A FEW LIGHTER OPTIONS
While Hard Rock high rollers can get such casino staples as carved, bone-in spiral ham, a six-ounce filet and 16-ounce slow-roasted prime rib, Bunkers has something unusual cooking up in the M+A kitchen.
"We associate Thanksgiving as a meat holiday but what if our patrons prefer something lighter?" he asked.Â
This is why Bunkers added miso-glazed Coho salmon and a miso-glazed halibut as sea-worthy options.
A baby beet salad is shown at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino's Main+Abbey restaurant. The restaurant served a prix fixe menu for Thanksgiving.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Eating lighter, huh? We can dig it. That is, as long as this means we can load up on desserts.
As a meal topper, M+A will offer a choice between a chocolate chunk pecan pie, pie-spiced apple beignet and, get this, a pumpkin swirl cheesecake!
Yup, you read that right! Good gourd, Bunkers has replaced pumpkin pie with a pumpkin cheesecake. Heck, since it is a cheesecake that has a ginger snap crust, cinnamon-infused whipped cream and topped with a milk chocolate twig, we're certain even Bunkers' grandmother would approve.
CREATIVE CUISINE IN THE AGE OF COVID-19
According to Bunkers, this is the first year M+A has opened on Thanksgiving.
"Most years, guests would go to World Tour Buffet for the holidays," he explained. "With our buffet closed due to COVID concerns, we decided to give a special Main + Abbey menu a try."
Carved bone in spiral ham with sides of green beans, carrots and gruyere mashed potatoes is shown at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino's Main+Abbey restaurant. The restaurant served a prix fixe menu for Thanksgiving.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Even then, Hard Rock is following CDC guidelines as well as limiting the number of guests at Main + Abbey. Plus making reservations is strongly encouraged for the Prix Fixe feast.
MIDWEST BRED, TRAINED IN FRENCH CUISINE
Which is fine for Bunkers, who has been working in the hospitality field since he was 16.
A culinary and restaurant management graduate from Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs, Bunkers was named executive chef at Omaha's French Cafe while in his early 20s. Â
Relocating to Las Vegas, he accepted a position as chef de partie of L’Atelier De Joël Robuchon, a French restaurant within the MGM Grand, where he served from 2006 to 2008. Bunkers was a member of the culinary team in 2008 when Robuchon captured his Michelin one-star status.
After working at various top eateries in Vegas for nine years, Bunkers relocated to Washington, D.C., to work at Le Diplomate before returning to Sioux City a few years ago.
A M+A turkey dinner with sides of brioche and pecan stuffing, carrots, and gouda mashed potatoes is shown at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino's Main+Abbey restaurant. The restaurant served a prix fixe menu for Thanksgiving.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Even now after working for Hard Rock, he still considers himself a French chef.
"No matter what cuisine you work in, everything utilizes classic French techniques," Bunkers said.Â
However, his Thanksgiving is anything but fusion.
"I tried to stay as close to our guest's expectations as possible," Bunkers said. "Still, don't call my menu a typical Thanksgiving spread. 'Typical' in my mind equals boring."
CRANBERRY MULES & APPLE PIE MARTINIS? WHY NOT?
M+A's food and beverage manager Zach Kreider agreed. That's why he and fellow mixologists will be making such unusual-but-festive drinks as cranberry mules, apple pie martinis as well as few Hot Toddies.
"We are incorporating Thanksgiving ingredients, even with our cocktails," he said. "We all think about family meals around the holidays. At least I do."
In fact, Kreider learned how to make food with his family. Or, at least, that's where he mastered the fine art of making "Ants on a Log."
"No holiday would be complete without 'Ants on a Log,'" he said. "I loved that when I was a kid."
Indeed, Bunkers wants to recreate memories for Hard Rock guests, whether they're from the area or traveling for the holidays.
"Whether we like it or not, this will not be a typical Thanksgiving for anyone," he admitted. "That doesn't mean we can't enjoy ourselves with good food and good company."
Every 2020 photo of Siouxland food (and drink) in the Journal
PHOTOS: Every picture of Siouxland food (and drink) published in the Journal in 2020
P's Pizza House
Lead cook Laryn Carrel prepares a half meat craver, half pepperoni pizza at the Dakota Dunes P's Pizza House. P's 300 Gold Circle location has one of the few coal-fired pizza ovens in Siouxland.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
P's Pizza House
Lead cook Laryn Carrel prepares a half meat craver, half pepperoni pizza at P's Pizza House, Aug. 25 in Dakota Dunes, S.D.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
P's Pizza House
Laryn Carrel cooks a half California veggie, half four cheese pizza in the coal fire oven at P's Pizza House in Dakota Dunes. Best known for its pizza, pasta, burgers and wings, P's also has a 630 Eighth Ave. S.W. location in Le Mars.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
P's Pizza House
Lead cook Laryn Carrel transfers pizza -- half four cheese, and half California veggie -- from the coal fire oven to the cutting table, at P's Pizza House in Le Mars. At a temp of more than 600 degrees, the coal fire oven can cook a pizza in a matter of minutes.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
P's Pizza House
P's Pizza House's Laryn Carrel puts out a four cheese pizza and a California veggie on display to be sold by the slice as Joe Sitzmann prepares to serve a piece of the four cheese pizza at the Dakota Dunes location. A veteran restaurateur, Sitzmann said the hospitality industry is still suffering from a post-coronavirus economy.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
P's Pizza House
Owner Joe Sitzmann applies ricotta cheese to a four cheese pizza at P's Pizza House in Dakota Dunes, S.D. Sitzmann said customers are slowly coming back to dine-in restaurants but it will take time.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Food Koi Sushi Steakhouse
Trained in sushi making in Japan, Chef Eddy Ang cuts into a dragon roll at Koi Sushi & Steakhouse. With more than 20 years of experience, Ang enjoys creating new and artistic sushi.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Food Koi Sushi Steakhouse
Koi Sushi and Steakhouse's Black Dragon Roll is an example of fusion cuisine. It takes elements of traditional Japanese sushi making and gives it a contemporary twist.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Food Koi Sushi Steakhouse
Made with shrimp and crabmeat, Koi Sushi and Steakhouse's Black Dragon Roll is topped with scallions and a housemade sauce.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Food Koi Sushi Steakhouse
Featuring tempura crab, spicy snowcrab and topped with tuna and a spicy mayo, a Koi is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Castle Pub Super Bowl food
Kiali Gatto slices a Philly cheesesteak sandwich on Texas toast at the Castle Pub in Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Castle Pub Super Bowl food
Kiali Gatto flips the patty for a 9-ounce burger.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Castle Pub Super Bowl food
Kiali Gatto adds fries to plates of burgers, Philly cheesesteak, and french dip sandwiches.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Castle Pub Super Bowl food
Kiali Gatto removes chicken wings from the broaster before smothering them in Asian Zing sauce.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Castle Pub Super Bowl food
The Super Bowl Sunday specials will be broasted chicken wings, Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, disrobed nachos, and 9-ounce burgers at the Castle Pub.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Castle Pub Super Bowl food
Kiali Gatto arranges the toppings for disrobed nachos at the Castle Pub in Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Castle Pub Super Bowl food
The Castle Pub featured 9-ounce burgers, broasted chicken wings, and disrobed nachos on Super Bowl Sunday.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Castle Pub Super Bowl food
Kiali Gatto serves a Philly cheesesteak, and a french dip sandwich with au jus at the Castle Pub.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Castle Pub Super Bowl food
Broasted chicken wings covered in Asian Zing sauce is a fan favorite at the Castle Pub.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Castle Pub Super Bowl food
In addition to disrobed nachos - which have the toppings on the side so the chips never get soggy - the Castle Pub will also feature Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, broasted chicken wings, and 9-ounce burgers on Super Bowl Sunday.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Castle Pub Super Bowl food
The Philly Cheesesteak sandwich.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Flour Power bakers
Ellie Ernster, left, and Molly O'Neill, seniors at Heelan High School, display a plate of cookies in a foods classroom at the Sioux City high school. The women learned how to bake for a school assignment. They enjoyed the experience so much that they've turned cookie-making into a business.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Flour Power bakers
Cookies baked and decorated by Ellie Ernster and Molly O'Neill, seniors at Heelan High School, are shown Feb. 4. The women bake cookies and market them through their Flour Power Facebook page.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Earl's Infusion Bar
Owner Frank Holstein pours a spicy pickle infusion into a beer at Earl's Infusion Bar. The Sioux City bar specializes in drinks made with house-infused vodka.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Earl's Infusion Bar
Owner Frank Holstein holds blueberry-lemon loaded beer and a cherry berry press at Earl's Infusion Bar. A former golf pro, Holstein said bars specializing in small batch infused alcohol is an innovation for Sioux City.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Earl's Infusion Bar
Owner Frank Holstein is shown with a blueberry-lemon loaded beer at Earl's Infusion Bar. A former golf pro from Colorado, Holstein loves to experiment with new flavor combinations at his newly-opened bar.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Earl's Infusion Bar
A cherry berry press made with sodas and infused vodka is shown at Earl's Infusion Bar.Â
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Earl's Infusion Bar
A loaded beer made with Blue Moon and blueberry-lemon infused vodka is shown at Earl's Infusion Bar, which opened at 419 Pearl St. in October 2019.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Earl's Infusion Bar
Owner Frank Holstein cuts up a melon that will be used in a cucumber-melon infusion at Earl's Infusion Bar. The Sioux City, Iowa, bar, at 419 Pearl St. in the former location of The Big Snug, specializes in drinks made with house-infused vodka.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Earl's Infusion Bar
A cucumber-melon infusion is shown at Earl's Infusion Bar, a new bar on Pearl Street in downtown Sioux City.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Abby Suhr
Abby Suhr is shown Feb. 18 preparing a drink at Bob Roe's Point After.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Beer Can Alley opening
Allie Townsend, manager of Beer Can Alley, pours a Blue Hawaiian at the bar on March 4.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Beer Can Alley opening
Allie Townsend, a manager of Beer Can Alley, pours a Blue Hawaiian at the 1109 Fourth St. bar.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
COVID-19: takeout orders at M's on 4th
Jeni VamBeek, head chef at M's on 4th, prepares to-go orders of Lobster Pappardelle and Chicken Fettuccine in Sioux City on March 18.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
COVID-19: takeout orders at M's on 4th
Jeni VamBeek, head chef at M's on 4th, prepares to-go orders of Lobster Pappardelle and Chicken Fettuccine on March 18.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Sabor Puerto Rico Food
Jose Ortiz, owner of Sabor Puerto Rican Food, shows off a Tripleta Sandwich with chicken, ham, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, catchup, and potato chips at his new restaurant in the Southern Hills Mall.
Jesse Brothers Sioux City Journal
Sabor Puerto Rico Food
Jose Ortiz, owner of Sabor Puerto Rican Food, shows off a Tripleta Sandwich with chicken, ham, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, ketchup, and potato chips at his new restaurant in the Southern Hills Mall.
Jesse Brothers Sioux City Journal
Sabor Puerto Rico Food
Jose Ortiz, owner of Sabor Puerto Rican Food, said plantains and potatoes of all types are common in his native cuisine.
Jesse Brothers Sioux City Journal
Sabor Puerto Rico Food
Sabor Puerto Rican Foods' Jesus Bojorquez holds a plate of fried appetizers at the restaurant that opened less than two weeks ago at Sioux City's Southern Hills Mall.
Jesse Brothers Sioux City Journal
Sabor Puerto Rico Food
Sabor Puerto Rican Food owner Jose Ortiz shows a plate full of Puerto Rican rice (with bacon), fried potatoes, fried chicken, plantain chips and, believe it or not, spaghetti, which is all common to his native cuisine. The restaurant opened at Southern Hills Mall in 2020.
Jesse Brothers Sioux City Journal
Sabor Puerto Rico Food
Jose Ortiz, owner of Sabor Puerto Rican Food, prepares the daily special at his new restaurant in the Southern Hills Mall.
Jesse Brothers Sioux City Journal
Sabor Puerto Rico Food
Jose Ortiz, owner of Sabor Puerto Rican Food, prepares the daily special at his new restaurant in the Southern Hills Mall.
Jesse Brothers Sioux City Journal
Sabor Puerto Rico Food
Jose Ortiz, owner of Sabor Puerto Rican Food, prepares authentic food that is popular in his native Vega Baja, Puerto Rico.Â
Jesse Brothers Sioux City Journal
Sabor Puerto Rico Food
Jose Ortiz, owner of Sabor Puerto Rican Food, prepares the daily special at his new restaurant in the Southern Hills Mall's food court, near AMC Southern Hills 12 movie theaters.Â
Jesse Brothers Sioux City Journal
Maude's Pizza
Jeremy Nicolls, general manager, right, and Jamie Shephard, assistant manager, assemble pizzas made from scratch at Maude's Pizza & Ice Cream Parlor.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Maude's Pizza
Jeremy Nicolls, general manager, and Jamie Shephard, assistant manager, left, assemble pizzas made from scratch at Maude's Pizza & Ice Cream Parlor. Customers can choose their choice from fresh toppings arranged in an assembly line fashion.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Maude's Pizza
Assistant Manager Jamie Shephard holds a completed pizza before it goes in the oven at Maude's Pizza & Ice Cream Parlor. A new eatery at the Southern Hills Mall, Maude's specializes in choose-your-own-topping pizzas.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Maude's Pizza
Jeremy Nicolls makes a pizza made from scratch at Maude's Pizza & Ice Cream Parlor, a new family-friendly restaurant at the Southern Hills Mall.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Maude's Pizza
Jamie Shephard makes a milkshake with salted caramel and Oreo cookie pieces at Maude's Pizza & Ice Cream Parlor. A retro pizzeria, Maude's was based on a similar restaurant in Ottumwa, Iowa, that was fondly remembered by its current owners.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Maude's Pizza
Want super-sized shakes? Assistant manager Jamie Shephard said Maude's Pizza & Ice Crema Parlor's premium shakes come teeming with top-notch ingredients.Â
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Maude's Pizza
Maude's Pizza & Ice Cream Parlor makes custom pizzas to order with homemade ingredients and fresh dough. General manager Jeremy Nicolls said customers love Maude's slightly sweet pizza sauce.Â
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Maude's Pizza
A "Dig Dug Mug" milkshake, left, and a salted caramel milkshake are shown at Maude's Pizza & Ice Cream Parlor.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Maude's Pizza
A "Dig Dug Mug" milkshake with hot fudge, chocolate brownie ice cream, brownie pieces, and homemade whipped cream is shown at Maude's Pizza & Ice Cream Parlor.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Twin Bing Stout
Monica Waldon and Bryan Cruz stock cans of Twin Bing stout into a cooler at Palmer's Olde Tyme Candy Shoppe in Sioux City in April.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Twin Bing Stout
Monica Waldon stocks cans of Twin Bing stout into a cooler at Palmer's Olde Tyme Candy Shoppe in Sioux City in April.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Covid-19 Koated Kernels 1
Co-owner B.J. McClellan pours caramel into a pan of popcorn as she and employee Rachael Arnts make caramel popcorn at Jolly Time Koated Kernels in Sioux City on April 17.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Covid-19 Koated Kernels 3
Popcorn spills out of a commercial popper April 17 at Jolly Time Koated Kernels in Sioux City.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Covid-19 Koated Kernels
Co-owner BJ McClellan, right, mixes a pan of vanilla popcorn as employee Rachael Arnts prepares an empty pan April 17 at Jolly Time Koated Kernels in Sioux City. Retail food businesses such as Koated Kernels have had to change the way they operate in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Covid-19 Koated Kernels 2
Co-owner B.J. McClellan mixes a pan of caramel popcorn April 17 at Jolly Time Koated Kernels in Sioux City.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Covid-19 Koated Kernels
Employee Rachael Arnts, left, and co-owner BJ McClellan mix pans of caramel popcorn April 17 at Jolly Time Koated Kernels in Sioux City. Retail food businesses such as Koated Kernels have had to change the way they operate in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Lunch in the park during COVID-19
Trisha Yockey, left, and Michelle Blume meet for lunch in Sertoma Park in Sioux City in April.Â
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Lunch in the park during COVID-19
Joey Posivio of Le Mars eats his lunch at Sergeant Floyd Monument in Sioux City in April.Â
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
COVID-19 restaurant openings
Gloria Schrooten of Le Mars eats lunch in the passenger seat of a car April 27 in the parking lot of Bob's Drive Inn in Le Mars, Iowa.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Daga's On Wheels during COVID-19
Charity Fenceroy bags an order of food at Daga's On Wheels in May.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Bars reopen
Hazy Sounthala pours ingredients for a "Pussycat" at 1008 Key Club on May 30.Â
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Bars reopen
Hazy Sounthala pours a "Pussycat" at 1008 Key Club on May 30 in Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Bars reopen
Manager Josh Jessen and bartender Hazy Sounthala prepare the bar for opening time at 1008 Key Club on May 30.
Jesse Brothers; Sioux City Journal
Bars reopen
Daniella Nuno pours a Bud Light at 1008 Key Club, Saturday, May 30 in Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
COVID-19 Coyote Twin theater popcorn 1
Sophie Swanson of Vermillion, South Dakota, buys a bag of popcorn at the Coyote Twin theater in Vermillion. Closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the theater sells popcorn Friday and Saturday evenings so people who love movie theater popcorn can enjoy it while watching movies at home.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
COVID-19 Coyote Twin theater popcorn 2
Brody Stone, theater manager, pops popcorn at the Coyote Twin theater in Vermillion, South Dakota. The theater has sold popcorn on Friday and Saturday evenings while closed during the COVID-19 pandemic so movie lovers can take the buttery treat home with them for the weekend.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
COVID-19 Coyote Twin theater popcorn
Brody Stone, theater manager, sells a bag of popcorn to Alissa Bonham of Vermillion, South Dakota, at the Coyote Twin theater in Vermillion. Since closing March 20 because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the theater has opened for two hours each Friday and Saturday to sell popcorn for people to enjoy while watching movies at home.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Mateo Fil-Am Kitchen and Catering Korean street food
Fish balls, topped with green onions and served on a skewer is considered popular street food in Divina Ericksen's native Manila. This is why Ericksen serves in at Mateo Fil-Am Kitchen and Catering, which serves fusion food at 300 First St., in Sergeant Bluff. Â
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Mateo Fil-Am Kitchen and Catering Korean street food
Can food be inspired by the music that teenagers like? Korean Pop fan Rebecca Ericksen, left, enjoyed Korean Pop music so much that she encouraged her mom, to add it to her menu. Rebecca and her friend Jesstine Henry helped to develop many of Mateo's appetizers.Â
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Mateo Fil-Am Kitchen and Catering Korean street food
Whatever you do, don't mistake a Lumpia with a Chinese Egg Roll. A popular Filipino appetizer, a Lumpia is made with ground pork, veggies and spice inside a wrapper that is longer in length than an egg roll. The Lumpia Shanghai is one of the most popular items at Mateo Fil-Am Kitchen and Catering in Sergeant Bluff.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Mateo Fil-Am Kitchen and Catering Korean street food
A popular Korean comfort food made with spicy and chewy rice cake noodles, Tteokbokki is slowly gaining traction with diners at Sergeant Bluff's Mateo Fil-Am Kitchen and Catering.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Mateo Fil-Am Kitchen and Catering Korean street food
No, these aren't French fries. They're actually fried pieces of tofu and, when served with a sweet and spicy chili dipping sauce, they're delicious.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Greek Fest
Greek Fest this year is being held in a drive-thru format over a series of weekends in June, July, August and October. A rotation of foods is being offered each of the weekends at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Sioux City.Â
Mason Dockter, Sioux City Journal
Big Papa's Grub on the Run
Chef Kenny Crampton displays a lamb gyro at his food truck, Big Papa's Grub on the Run.Â
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Big Papa's Grub on the Run
Kenny Crampton cooks a lamb gyro as he and cook Travis Anderson work a lunch service in Crampton's food truck, Big Papa's Grub on the Run. Chef and food truck owner Kenny Crampton has worked at several Sioux City restaurants and now cooks out of his truck throughout the week at various locations.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Big Papa's Grub on the Run
A loaded po-boy is show from Big Papa's Grub on the Run. This is one of the new menu items that chef and food truck owner Kenny Crampton.Â
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Iowa BBQ Company
Michelle Holub puts together a plate of brisket, pulled pork, spare ribs, and jalapeno cheddar sausage, Wednesday at Iowa BBQ Company in Le Mars, Iowa.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Iowa BBQ Company
Michelle Holub slices beef brisket at Iowa BBQ Company in Le Mars, Iowa..
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Iowa BBQ Company
Matt Simms seasons whole briskets with salt and pepper at Iowa BBQ Company in Le Mars, Iowa.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Iowa BBQ Company
Matt Simms seasons whole briskets with salt and pepper at Iowa BBQ Company in Le Mars, Iowa.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Iowa BBQ Company
Matt Simms prepares whole briskets for the smoker at Iowa BBQ Company in Le Mars, Iowa..
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Iowa BBQ Company
Brad Daugherty makes stuffed jalapenos at Iowa BBQ Company in Le Mars, Iowa.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Iowa BBQ Company
Chef Michelle Holub holds a plate of brisket, pulled pork, spare ribs, and jalapeno cheddar sausage in one hand with macaroni and cheese and other sides in the other hand at Iowa BBQ Company in Le Mars, Iowa.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Iowa BBQ Company
Matt Simms loads up the smoker with beef brisket to cook for twelve hours at Iowa BBQ Company in Le Mars.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Food Rebo's
Jesus Sanchez, left, and Brian Rees are shown with a selection of their signature dishes at Rebo's, a long-serving restaurant in Sioux City's Historic Fourth Street district. The popular eatery is one of the 10 restaurants participating in Downtown Partner's Restaurant Week, Sunday through April 17.Â
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Food Rebo's
Something old, something bold! When Jesus Sanchez reopened the popular Rebos with its former owner Brian Rees, he amde sure to keep Rebos' ever-popular Tijuana Trainwreck on the menu.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Food Rebo's
Chips and various salsas are shown at Rebo's, a long-serving restaurant in Sioux City's Historic Fourth Street district. Founded by Brian Rees and now operated in partnership with Jesus Sanchez, the restaurant have been re-imagined in a smaller size and has added hours previously cut due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Food Rebo's
Known for its wide assortment of chips and creative, house-made dips, Rebos has earned a devoted following of fans desiring food fare that combines elements of Creole, Caribbean and New Mexican cuisine.Â
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Food Rebo's
A strawberry kiwi margarita is among the many types of margarita available at Rebos, an 1107 Fourth St. eatery that closed in 2019, only to reopen about six months later.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Food Rebo's
Want a Sangria is simply sumptuous? A red, left, and white sangria at Rebos is a perfect way to wash down Chef Brain Rees' flavorful food.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Food Rebo's
Veteran Sioux City restaurateur Jesus Sanchez has expanded the drinks menu at Rebos. Best known for owning the nearby 1008 Key Club, Sanchez has partnered up with Rebos founder Brian Rees at the reimagined Rebos.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Food Rebo's
Clockwise, from top, kiwi strawberry, cocoanut, traditional, and spicy margaritas are shown at Rebo's, a long-serving restaurant in Sioux City's Historic Fourth Street district. Founded by Brian Reese and now operated in partnership with Jesus Sanchez, the restaurant have been re-imagined in a smaller size and has added hours previously cut due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Oscar Carl Vineyard
Melanie Olsen holds a glass of Loesscato Iowa White Wine, on a deck overlooking the vineyards at Oscar Carl Vineyard that she co-owns with her husband, Roy.Â
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Oscar Carl Vineyard
A pineapple wine slushie at Oscar Carl Vineyard.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Oscar Carl Vineyard
A pineapple wine slushie is shown Monday, July 13, 2020, at Oscar Carl Vineyard in Sioux City, Iowa. The winery planted its first grapevines in 2016 and held its first harvest in 2018.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Oscar Carl Vineyard
Melanie Olsen is shown Monday, July 13, 2020, at Oscar Carl Vineyard that she co-owns with her husband, Roy. The Sioux City winery planted its first grapevines in 2016 and held its first harvest in 2018.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
79 Degree
Sandy Huynh, right, and Vy Pham prepare rolled ice cream, a popular Vietnamese dessert, at 79 Degree, a new eatery specializing in Vietnamese snacks at 3087 Floyd Blvd.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
79 Degree
Vy Pham pours ice cream on a frozen countertop to freeze it at 79 Degree in Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
79 Degree
Vy Pham prepares rolled ice cream at 79 Degree in Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
79 Degree
A roast pork Banh Mi sandwich with cilantro, pickled carrots and spicy sauce is shown with a caramel milk tea, left, and an orange strawberry tea with mango jelly boba at 79 Degree in Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
79 Degree
A roast pork sandwich with cilantro, pickled carrots and spicy sauce is shown with a caramel milk tea, left, and an orange strawberry tea with mango jelly boba at 79 Degree, which opened in summer 2020.Â
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
79 Degree
Sandy Huynh rolls ice cream on a frozen countertop at 79 Degree in Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
79 Degree
Sandy Huynh prepares rolled ice cream at 79 Degree in Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
79 Degree
Cookies and cream rolled ice cream is shown with whipped cream and chocolate syrup at 79 Degree in Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
79 Degree
Elliot Carreau eats rolled ice cream with bananas and Nutella at 79 Degree in Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
79 Degree
Elliot Carreau eats cookies and cream rolled ice cream at 79 Degree in Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Food Truck Friday
Ashley Finck, center, picks up her order of Chicken and noodles with a Strawberry Basil Lemonade infusion from BrookLynn Patton at The Leaf food truck during the first Food Truck Friday of the summer at Pearl Street Park in Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Food Blue Tequila
Gisel Lopez and Luis Ortiz hold up some of colorful margaritas available at Blue Tequila, a Sergeant Bluff eatery that is known for having an 88-ounce tequila margarita.Â
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Food Blue Tequila
Alfredo Lopez holds Blue Tequila's Pollo Feliz, a chicken and beef dish served in a pineapple at Blue Tequila, an authentic Mexican eatery at 148 Gaul Drive in Sergeant Bluff.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Food Blue Tequila
Blue Tequila's Pollo Feliz, a chicken and beef dish served in a pineapple, is the creation of veteran restaurant chef Eduardo Ortiz, who has more than 20 years of food experience. Â
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Food Blue Tequila
Blue Tequila's Texas Fajita is one of several meaty fajitas on the menu at the Sergeant Bluff restaurant. Several entrees items are also vegetarian-friendly.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Food Blue Tequila
Open since October, Blue Tequila has been serving authentic Mexican foods like its Chori Pollo in very generous proportions.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Food Blue Tequila
Fried ice cream.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Food Main+Abbey Thanksgiving
Kelly Bunkers, chef de cuisine at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino's Main+Abbey restaurant, is shown with a selection of items the restaurant prepared for a prix fixe Thanksgiving menu.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Food Main+Abbey Thanksgiving
Carved bone in spiral ham with sides of green beans, carrots and gruyere mashed potatoes is shown at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino's Main+Abbey restaurant. The restaurant served a prix fixe menu for Thanksgiving.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Food Main+Abbey Thanksgiving
A M+A turkey dinner with sides of brioche and pecan stuffing, carrots, and gouda mashed potatoes is shown at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino's Main+Abbey restaurant. The restaurant served a prix fixe menu for Thanksgiving.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Food Main+Abbey Thanksgiving
A baby beet salad is shown at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino's Main+Abbey restaurant. The restaurant served a prix fixe menu for Thanksgiving.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Food Main+Abbey Thanksgiving
Kelly Bunkers, chef de cuisine at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino's Main+Abbey restaurant.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Pete's Thai on 5th
Pete Utthachoo makes Pho, a traditional Vietnamese dish which he gives a Thai twist, at Pete's Thai on 5th, 507 Fifth St. Although he is best known for making authentic Thai foods, Utthachoo also mastered Chinese, American and Italian cuisine when he started cooking professionally more than 25 years ago.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Pete's Thai on 5th
Chayvanh Utthachoo makes Shrimp Pad Thai at her husband's restaurant Pete's Thai on 5th in Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Pete's Thai on 5th
Chayvanh Utthachoo makes Shrimp Pad Thai at her husband's restaurant Pete's Thai on 5th in Sioux City. Pete Utthachoo credited his wife's skill as a chef as one of the reasons for his success.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Pete's Thai on 5th
Pete Utthachoo makes pumpkin curry at the new Pete's Thai on 5th. The longtime owner of Diamond Thai Cuisine in Sioux City, Utthachoo has helped to open restaurants in Dubuque, Iowa and in Utah during his three years away from Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Pete's Thai on 5th
Pete Utthachoo makes pumpkin curry at his restaurant Pete's Thai on 5th in downtown Sioux City. In addition to pumpkin, Pete's Thai on 5th also has panang curry, red curry, yellow curry and a roasted duck curry on its menu.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Pete's Thai on 5th
Pete Utthachoo makes Pho, a traditional Vietnamese soup, at Pete's Thai on 5th in Sioux City. Utthachoo gives it a Thai twist by adding special spices to the ingredients.
Jesse Brothers, The Weekender
Pete's Thai on 5th
Owner Pete Utthachoo holds a plate of pumpkin curry, left, and Pho, right, at his restaurant Pete's Thai on 5th in Sioux City. Utthachoo's flavorful creations were a favorite of Siouxland chefs like Jesus Sanchez and Clay Lillie.Â
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Louis Bros BBQ
Jesus Lopez prepares baby back ribs at Louis Bro's BBQ. Many of the food truck's recipes come from owner Quincy Louis' own family.Â
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Louis Bros BBQ
Quianna Louis hands pork sandwiches through the pick up window at Louis Bro's BBQ.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Louis Bros BBQ
Lena Dunbar puts barbeque sauce on a pork sandwich at the Louis Bros BBQ food truck. All meats are slowly cooked in back of the food truck's kitchen, according to owner Quincy Louis.Â
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Louis Bros BBQ
Lena Dunbar prepares a pork sandwich at Louis Bros BBQ, a food truck owned by Omaha native Quincy Louis. A veteran restaurant manager, Louis began his food truck business earlier this spring.Â
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Pete's Thai on 5th
Bay Lap sets a table at her brother-in-law Pete Utthachoo's restaurant Pete's Thai on 5th in Sioux City. Lap previously worked with Utthachoo when he owned Diamond Thai Cuisine for more than a decade.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Pete's Thai on 5th
Pete's Thai on 5th owner Pete Utthachoo holds a bowl of Shrimp Pad Thai at his new 507 Fifth St. eatery.Â
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Pete's Thai on 5th
An assortment of signature dishes including pumpkin curry, shrimp Pad Thai , fresh rolls, Pho, and coconut soup are shown at Pete's Thai on 5th in Sioux City.Â
Jesse Brothers, The Weekender
Pete's Thai on 5th
An assortment of signature dishes including pumpkin curry, shrimp Pad Thai, fresh rolls, Pho, and coconut soup are shown at Pete's Thai on 5th in Sioux City. Owner Pete Utthachoo learned to cook authentic Thai cuisine from his mom Penny.
Jesse Brothers, The Weekender
Pete's Thai on 5th
Chef Pete Utthachoo sets a table at Pete's Thai on 5th, a new restaurant in downtown Sioux City. A native of Thailand, Utthachoo has worked in restaurants throughout the United States.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Pete's Thai on 5th
Owner Pete Utthachoo sets a table at his restaurant Pete's Thai on 5th. Previously the owner of Diamond Thai Cuisine, Utthachoo opened the new Thai restaurant at 507 Fifth St., in early December.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Food Tako N' Madre
Owner Francisco Lepe cooks chorizo at the Tako N' Madre food truck. The truck specializes in serving south-of-the border street food that has a California twist.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Food Tako N' Madre
An order of Cali fries are shown at the Tako N' Madre food truck.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Food Tako N' Madre
Owner Francisco Lepe seasons shrimp while making orders of spicy and Baja shrimp taco at the Tako N' Madre food truck.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Food Tako N' Madre
Owner Francisco Lepe spoons hot chili sauce on an order of spicy shrimp tacos.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Food Tako N' Madre
Alejandro Martinez, left, holds an order of spicy shrimp tacos and Francisco Lepe holds a order of baja tacos at the Tako N' Madre food truck parked at The Butcher Shop.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Food Kats Grub
Kat Pendleton holds a tray of soul food eggrolls and a news article about her grandfather, John Shores, at Kats Grub, the food truck she operates in Sioux City. Pendleton credits Shores, who owned Johnny's Parking Lot, as an inspiration.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Food Kats Grub
Kat Pendleton holds a tray of soul food eggrolls at Kats Grub, the food truck she operates in Sioux City. A former bank employee, Pendleton decided operating a restaurant on wheels would satisfy her entrepreneurial aspirations as well as a passion for cooking. When she isn't on her food truck, Pendleton works in food services at Sioux City's North Middle School.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Food Kats Grub
Soul food eggrolls -- made with turkey leg meat, collard greens and cornbread in an eggroll wrapper -- is one of the more unique offerings at Kats Grub, a food truck that specializes in down home soul food favorites.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Jumpy Monkey Coffee Roasting Co.
Lori Bride shows the color of Kenya coffee beans before they're roasted at Jumpy Monkey Coffee on Aug. 21. The Sergeant Bluff firm is among the small businesses featured on a new state website called Shop Iowa.Â
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Jumpy Monkey Coffee Roasting Co.
Lori Bride shows the color of Kenya coffee beans before they're roasted at Jumpy Monkey Coffee in Sergeant Bluff.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Dog Eat Dog food cart
Connor Ulerich eats a Philly cheesesteak sandwich from Dave Schrock's Dog Eat Dog food cart.
Tim Hynds, Weekender
Dog Eat Dog food cart
Dave Schrock spreads mustard on a Chicago dog at his Dog Eat Dog food cart in the parking lot of Bomgaars Hamilton Boulevard location in Sioux City, Iowa.
Tim Hynds, Weekender
Dog Eat Dog food cart
Dave Schrock holds a fire-roasted chili dog.
Tim Hynds, Weekender
Dog Eat Dog food cart
Dave Schrock makes a Philly cheesesteak sandwich.
Tim Hynds, Weekender
Dog Eat Dog food cart
Dave Schrock melts cheese with a blowtorch while making a fire-roasted chili dog. Schrock said kids love to see the cheese on his hot dogs be melted by the blowtorch.
Tim Hynds, Weekender
Angelina's Cantina
Owner Lorena Perez holds Angelina's Pasta, one of the house specialties at Angelina's Cantina, a newly opened, authentic Mexican eatery in South Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Angelina's Cantina
Angelina's Cantina features many unique Mexican seafood dishes such as Angelina's Pasta with shrimp and shellfish, shrimp empanadas and Campechana, in South Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Angelina's Cantina
Angelina's Cantina features many unique Mexican seafood dishes such as Angelina's Pasta with shrimp and shellfish, shrimp empanadas and Campechana, in South Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Angelina's Cantina
Pork rinds are shown at Angelina's Cantina in South Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Angelina's Cantina
A plate of Carne Tampiquena is shown at Angelina's Cantina, Friday, in South Sioux City, Neb., Oct. 30, 2020.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Angelina's Cantina
Fettuccine served with shrimp, octopus, mini scallops, mussels, clams and a creamy red sauce is a favorite of Angelina's Cantina owner Lorena Perez.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Angelina's Cantina
There are shrimp cocktails but Angelina's Cantina adds everything from shrimp, mini scallops, ceviche, clams, tomatoes and onion to its massive and delicious Seafood Campechana.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Angelina's Cantina
Shrimp empanadas filled with cheese are shown at Angelina's Cantina in South Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Angelina's Cantina
Owner Lorena Perez sets out plates of food at Angelina's Cantina. The restaurant is named after her mother, a Jalisco, Mexico, home cook.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Angelina's Cantina
Server Juanita Marquez sets our plates of food at Angelina's Cantina, a 710 Dakota Ave. eatery that opened its doors in August 2020.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Angelina's Cantina
Angelina's Cantina cook Juan Mora plates fettuccini for Angelina's Pasta, which also contains shrimp, octopus, clams as well as a creamy red sauce.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Angelina's Cantina
Angelina's Cantina cook Juan Mora adds different types of seafood for Campechana, one of the cold seafood specialties at the South Sioux City restaurant.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Angelina's Cantina
Juan Mora prepares a bowl of shrimp Campechana in the kitchen at Angelina's Cantina. According to owner Lorena Perez, Angelina's Cantina specialized in seafood dishes from Jalisco, Mexico.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Angelina's Cantina
Angel Vasquez prepares the signature Angelina's Pasta at Angelina's Cantina, a new restaurant located at 710 Dakota Ave. in South Sioux City. Owner Lorena Perez said fettuccini give this otherwise Mexican dish a unique taste.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Angelina's Cantina
A Smirnoff Spicy Tamarind Vodka drink with sprite and club soda is featured at Angelina's Cantina, in South Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Angelina's Cantina
A Compechana with shrimp and octopus is shown at Angelina's Cantina in South Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Angelina's Cantina
A mini cheesecake is shown at Angelina's Cantina in South Sioux City.
Jesse Brothers, Sioux City Journal
Cooking priest Brad Pelzel
The Rev. Brad Pelzel stirs a corn casserole at his residence.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Cooking priest Brad Pelzel
Chopped onions are shown on a cutting board as the Rev. Brad Pelzel cooks at his residence.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Food Daga's on Broadway
Tyson Sanchez, owner of Daga's on Broadway, cooks a D.C. Cheeseburger at his new Dakota City, Nebraska, restaurant.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Food Daga's on Broadway
Tyson Sanchez, owner of Daga's on Broadway, prepares a DC Cheeseburger at his new Dakota City, Nebraska, restaurant.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Daga's on Broadway
Tyson Sanchez, owner of Daga's on Broadway, hold a DC Cheeseburger at his new Dakota City restaurant.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Twin Bing Dream ice cream
Twin Bing Dream ice cream and a Twin Bing candy bar are shown. Sioux City's Palmer Candy has teamed with Stensland Family Farms Creamery, of Larchwood, Iowa, to create an ice cream with the flavor of Palmer's iconic Twin Bing candy bars.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Winter beers Brioux City Brewery
Brioux City Brewery's Nickie Quinn is shown with the brewery's stouts. from left, Chocolate Buddha Stout, Betty White Stout and Bing Crosby Oatmeal Stout at the brewery located inside Marty's Tap, 1306 Court Street, in Sioux City. In January, Brioux City Brewery will be celebrating its third year in business.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Winter beers Brioux City Brewery
Brioux City Brewery's Nickie Quinn pours a "Betty White Blonde" stout at the brewery located inside Marty's Tap, 1306 Court Street, in Sioux City. The beer, one of Brioux City's newest creation, was named after the star of the long-running "The Golden Girls" sitcom.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Winter beers Brioux City Brewery
Brioux City Brewery's Nickie Quinn holds a Betty White Stout and a Bing Crosby Oatmeal Stout, two season-appropriate offerings available at the brewery located inside Marty's Tap, 1306 Court Street, in Sioux City.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
Winter beers Brioux City Brewery
Brioux City Brewery's Betty White Stout and Bing Crosby Oatmeal Stout are shown at the brewery located inside Marty's Tap, 1306 Court Street, in Sioux City. Also available are Brioux City's HasselHOPS and the its Red Rider Christmas Ale, when it comes to pop culture-related craft beers.
Tim Hynds, Sioux City Journal
Winter beers Brioux City Brewery
A sampler tray of Brioux City Brewery's Bing Crosby Oatmeal Stout, Betty White Stout and Chocolate Buddha Stout are shown at the brewery located inside Marty's Tap, 1306 Court Street, in Sioux City.
Tim Hynds, The Weekender
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