Brothers Restaurant at Mattei's Tavern

Description:

• Mattei's is proud of its stagecoach past. Built in 1886 by Swiss-born Felix Mattei to service waiting stagecoach passengers, the tavern remained in business until 1914 when the Model-A Ford put the coaches out of business. Rumors abound of high-stakes poker games in Mattei's back room, where many an early rancher literally "lost the farm." As soon as you step inside this rambling white Victorian submerged in wisteria you'll be impressed by how successfully it has retained its historic charm. The restaurant is known throughout the county for its signature reduction sauces and house-made ice cream. You'll find thick steaks on the menu, along with honey-glazed Iowa pork chops, prime rib with garlic mashed potatoes, and Australian lobster tail. Bust a pant button with the sinful fudge brownie sundae with banana ice cream, and then saddle up and mosey along.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010