Adventure Awaits: Must-Visit Experiential Dining Spots in the Ames Region
While the greater Ames region is home to a massive variety of great restaurants, two local businesses stand out completely from the crowd. Rather than just meeting their customers’ standard food and beverage needs, these establishments go a major step further to provide an immersive culinary experience.
Ahead, meet the innovative owners behind these spaces and discover exactly what you can expect when you plan your next visit.
European Charm and Luxury at Juniper & Olive Co.
Cyndi Gryte
Before opening Juniper & Olive Co., native Iowan Cyndi Gryte had already made a name for herself as a digital media expert, plus she had appeared on CMT’s The Ultimate Coyote Ugly Search, a former reality TV show. Over the last few years, however, she has become known for the European-style cafe and martini bar that she opened in 2021.
Located in Jewell, a community that Gryte says is full of shops with owners who exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit, Juniper & Olive Co. features over-the-top designs, delicious cocktails and community. It’s named after the two staple components of a gin martini: juniper berries, from which the spirit is distilled, and an olive.
🏆 National Recognition
Juniper & Olive Co. was named “The Most Charming Small-Town Restaurant in Iowa” by the Food Network, and it is incredibly easy to see why.
In 2025, the cafe was named The Most Charming Small-Town Restaurant in Iowa by Food Network, and it’s easy to see why. Visitors step through the doors of the historic building into a Parisian scene, complete with bistro tables, gilded decor and, often, live music. It’s a true feast for the eyes that does exactly what Gryte intended: It whisks visitors off on an adventure. The menu boasts craft cocktails, charcuterie boards, and so much more, all served from chic drinkware and mismatched plates. Plus, it regularly hosts community and private events, including bridal shopping experiences where guests can enjoy exclusive use of a luxurious styling suite.
Gryte believes the community is at the heart of her cafe’s success.
“The community is incredible,” she says. “They spread the word, bring friends, share our social media posts, latest information and events, and circulate exciting photos of their visits, which has made us so popular. They are part of our lore and certainly have an influence on everything from our menu to events. So many have their names on our walls from painting, woodworking, chandelier hanging, holiday decorating and more. We wouldn’t be here without them.”
Vibrant, Vintage and Nostalgic Vibes at The Dot
In Ames, customers love The Dot, a restaurant known for its cheerful staff, nostalgic vibes and diner classics.
“We’re passionate about reimagining the flavors we grew up with and blending them with a fresh, modern twist,” say owner Dawn Budd and chef and manager Molly Kardelis. “We partner with local businesses, supporting our community while crafting dishes and drinks that celebrate tradition and innovation.”
The Dot is so much more than a food-and-drink establishment, which was the goal long before the cafe opened in 2024.
“We wanted to contribute to our vibrant, growing community, with the perfect blend of local pride, creativity and diversity. The energy here is genuine, and we knew The Dot could add to our community in a meaningful way,” say Budd and Kardelis. “We’ve built a space that feels fun and community-driven, from seasonal launches and low-key happy hours to disco parties and puzzle competitions. There’s always something happening, and the atmosphere evolves throughout the day while staying true to who we are.”
The cafe features a space that feels highly fun and community-driven, offering an evolving schedule of events that change throughout the day. Visitors can pop in for:
- Seasonal menu launches
- Low-key weekday happy hours
- High-energy retro disco parties
- Community puzzle competitions
The Dot boasts a fully stocked craft station for those who fancy a bit of scrapbooking alongside their snacks and sips. And while the food speaks for itself, newcomers and regulars might be surprised to learn that The Dot makes all its unique beverage syrups and baked treats in-house.
Plus, each table includes vintage salt and pepper shakers from Budd and Kardelis’ personal collections. They are a way for them to bring a bit of “grandma’s house” to The Dot.
Get to Know the Ames Region