Crouse Cafe

"Dine in with us today!"

About Us

Crouse Cafe in Indianola, IA has been a family tradition since 1946, when Bob and Cleo Crouse first opened their doors serving customers in Leon, Knoxville, and Indianola. In 1963, their son Richard and his wife Bonnie continued the business, and in 1970 the cafe moved across the street to its current home thanks to the advice of R.M. Hale. The legacy grew in 1987 when their children John, Bob, and Cindy stepped in, with John and Rhonda guiding the cafe for many years alongside family in the kitchen and dining room. Today, after John and Rhonda’s retirement, the next generation—Josh and Kristin Crouse—proudly run the cafe, keeping the same welcoming spirit, homemade meals, and sense of community that have made Crouse Cafe a beloved gathering place for nearly 80 years.

Our Story

Crouse Cafe has been a cherished gathering place in Indianola, Iowa, since 1946—serving homestyle meals, fresh-baked pies, and warm hospitality for nearly eight decades. What began with founders Bob and Cleo Crouse, who operated restaurants in Leon, Knoxville, and Indianola, has grown into one of the community’s most beloved family-owned establishments. Their dedication to quality, consistency, and community laid the foundation for a legacy that continues to thrive today.

In 1963, the cafe was passed down to their son Richard and his wife Bonnie, who proudly continued the family’s tradition of serving hearty, made-from-scratch meals to loyal customers. Under their leadership, the cafe became a daily stop for locals, travelers, and families who valued great food and genuine service. In 1970, the restaurant made its move across the street to the location it still occupies today—a decision shaped by the advice of R.M. Hale and one that allowed the restaurant to expand its space and deepen its community presence.

By 1987, the next generation—John, Bob, and Cindy—took over ownership and carried the Crouse tradition forward. Today, the restaurant remains proudly family owned and operated, led by John and Rhonda alongside John’s brother Bob, with the next generation continuing the legacy. Their son Josh brings passion and consistency to the kitchen, while daughter Kristin, along with nieces Heidi and Abbie, help maintain the welcoming environment guests have loved for decades. This multigenerational commitment is at the heart of what makes Crouse Cafe special.

Crouse Cafe’s menu features timeless favorites made the old-fashioned way. Breakfast is served all day, offering everything from classic eggs and bacon to locally celebrated comfort dishes. Daily specials keep the menu fresh and exciting, showcasing homestyle meals like hot beef sandwiches made with real mashed potatoes and scratch-made gravy, skillet-fried chicken, and hand-breaded tenderloins that customers rave about. Even the onion rings—thinly sliced and breaded in-house—reflect the cafe’s dedication to handmade quality.

Of all the favorites on the menu, nothing is more iconic than the Cherry Pie. This local treasure has earned major recognition: listed by the Des Moines Register as one of the “100 Things in Iowa to Eat Before You Die,” winner of a Travel Iowa contest, and named Best Pie in Iowa by People Magazine in October 2019. This pie, made with the same recipe passed down through generations, embodies everything Crouse Cafe stands for—tradition, quality, and care.

Through the years, Crouse Cafe has remained a symbol of small-town warmth, family pride, and home-cooked comfort. Whether you’re a long-time regular or visiting for the first time, you’ll be welcomed like family and served a meal that tastes like home.

Visit us at 115 E Salem Ave, Indianola, IA 50125, or call 515-961-3362. Please note our menu is being updated and prices may change.

Areas Served

Indianola, IA

Our Professional Associations

Indianola Chamber of Commerce
National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB)

What We Offer

Our Specialties include:

Family Owned and Operated
Daily Specials
Breakfast Served All Day
Known for our Cherry Pie - Listed in Dsm Register as 100 things in Iowa to Eat Before You Die, Won Travel Iowa Contest, and People Magazine as Best Pie in Iowa in Oct. 2019
Hot Beef with Real Mashed Potatoes and Gravy Made from Scratch
Onion Rings are Thin Sliced and Breaded In-House
Fried Chicken is Fried in an Iron Skillet
Tenderloins are Hand-Breaded

Our Services include:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Daily Specials
Dine-In
Takeout

Our Products include:

Hot Beef with Real Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
Onion Rings
Fried Chicken
Hand-breaded Tenderloins
Milkshakes
Pies
Gift Certificates Available!

Testimonials

On 8/2/2026 Tanya Green had this to say:
If only we lived closer! We would never have to go grocery shopping, we would eat here. Well, we would need some groceries for when they are closed on Mondays.

On 7/25/2026 Jackie Lewis had this to say:
The everything omelet was probably the best omelet I've ever had.

On 7/18/2026 Mike Wiedmann had this to say:
We were there this morning for the buffet. Used to eat there often when I worked in Indianola 26 years ago the place is still amazing. Those two Crouse sisters are as professional as they are a delight. Well done!! Testimonial written by Mike Wiedmann on this site.

On 7/14/2026 Britt Oswald had this to say:
Classic diner

Contact Us

Crouse Cafe
115 E Salem Ave Indianola, IA 50125
Phone: (515) 961-3362
Email: crousecafe@icloud.com

Around the Corner from Paramount 7 Theater,
Half block from the Town Square

Where To Find Us

Payment Types Accepted

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa, Debit Cards

Our Hours

Holiday Hours May Vary. Please Call For Details.

Tuesday: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Thursday: 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday: 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Saturday: 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM

News

🎉 Celebrating 80 Years of Family Ownership & Community! 🎉

Crouse Cafe has been a family-owned and operated tradition since 1946. What began with Bob and Cleo Crouse serving customers in Leon, Knoxville, and Indianola has grown into a beloved gathering place for generations of families and friends.

Through the decades, the cafe has remained in the Crouse family, with each generation carrying forward the values of homemade meals, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere. From Richard and Bonnie Crouse, to John and Rhonda Crouse, and now Josh and Kristin Crouse, the family legacy continues strong.

As we celebrate our 80th Anniversary, we want to thank our loyal customers, dedicated employees, and community members who have supported us throughout the years. Your friendships, memories, and traditions are what make Crouse Cafe so special.

Here's to 80 years of family, food, and community... and many more to come! ❤️

#CrouseCafe #FamilyOwned #IndianolaIA #80YearsStrong #Since1946 #CommunityTradition

⭐🍽️ Love Your Experience at Crouse Cafe? Leave Us a Review! 🍽️⭐
Nothing means more to our family than hearing from the guests who have supported Crouse Cafe through generations. If you've enjoyed our homemade meals, friendly service, and welcoming atmosphere, we'd be grateful if you shared your experience with a review.
Your feedback helps us continue the tradition of hospitality that has made Crouse Cafe a community favorite since 1946. Visit our reviews page and let us know how we're doing: Leave a Review ❤️☕
#CrouseCafe #CustomerReviews

☀️ Savor Summer at Crouse Cafe 🍓🍳
Summer tastes better at Crouse Cafe—where fresh flavors, cozy vibes, and friendly smiles come together for the perfect seasonal escape. Whether you’re stopping in for a refreshing breakfast, a light lunch, or your favorite comfort dish, every bite is made to brighten your day. Pair your meal with a delicious drink and soak up the sunshine with good company and great food. Make this summer one to remember—stop by and treat yourself at Crouse Cafe!

☕🥞 Start the New Year With Comfort & Flavor at Crouse Cafe! 🎉✨

As we head into 2026, there’s no better way to kick off the year than with a homemade meal from Crouse Cafe. From hearty breakfasts to comfort‑food favorites, we serve up the kind of dishes that make you feel right at home.

Whether you’re meeting friends, grabbing a warm meal on a cold day, or treating yourself to a slice of our famous pie, Crouse Cafe is the perfect place to start the year with good food and good company.

🔥 New Year, same delicious tradition. Come dine with us!

Info

August Specials
Menu

FAQ

What is the history of Crouse Cafe?

Crouse Cafe has been part of the Indianola community since 1946. It was founded by Bob and Cleo Crouse, later managed by their son Richard and his wife Bonnie, and is now operated by their grandchildren.

Where is Crouse Cafe located?

We are located in Indianola, IA, at our current location since 1970, just across the street from our original spot.

Are there any changes to the menu at Crouse Cafe?

Yes, our menu is being updated, and prices may change. We encourage customers to visit us for the latest offerings.

What makes Crouse Cafe special?

With a rich history and family-oriented management, Crouse Cafe offers a warm, traditional dining experience in Indianola.

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