Long Branch Steakhouse

We have been to Long Branch numerous times now that they have been open a year. They have really hit their stride and stand out as one of the best options in all of Polk County. They have evolved their menu from the picture I posted.

Venue and Service

Initially when opened, the lights were bright and the dining room ambiance seemed off. They have since changed out the lights and added some nice touches both inside and out and no complaints here. Service has always been great, they have plenty of servers, hosts, and a staffed checkout counter. Probably the best service of any restaurant in the area we have experienced.

The Food

With many visits under our belt, I will just say that most of the food we have had has come out great. They are consistent and have generous portions and are always tweaking the menu. A few highlights below:

Wings were crispy and spicy and a good starter.

Club sandwich portions are generous. Fries were light and fluffy.

Steak was cooked perfectly with a butter sauce option on top. Coleslaw was standard fare.

Buffalo Chicken Wrap

Jalapeno Poppers were stuffed with sausage and cheese and wrapped in bacon.

Loaded baked potato with pulled pork on the side.

Philly Cheesesteak

Summary and Score

Now that Long Branch has hit its 1-year anniversary they are fully in stride and a consistent top performer in Polk County. Service is great (even when ordering Take Out or through Door Dash) and the food is top notch. They continue to innovate and are at the top of the Polk County rankings.

Rating: A+

Link to Google Maps listing

LeBlanc's Cajun Kitchen is another place we find ourselves visiting often, especially if we have family in from out of town and they are looking for fish/seafood options. They are consistent, quick and friendly. The food here is heavy, so come with an appetite and expect a nap after if you plan on cleaning your plate. Venue and Service Counter-style ordering moves folks through the ordering process fairly quickly and self-service drinks help speed up the overall experience at LeBlanc's. With a large menu board available, there are numerous options both with a side of fries and cajun style. Pre-made desserts are also available in a display fridge behind the counter. Although dark, my daughter loves looking at all the animals mounted on the walls and can always find something new to talk about. The Food Definitely the place to go in town for fresh fish and seafood options. You can have items grilled, blackened, and fried and I suggest you try them all to see what you like best.

Fresh Donuts

Fresh Donuts is our number one spot for donuts and kolaches in Polk County. They are always open (even during the holidays) and are some of the friendliest folks around. I have seen now they are even doing custom donuts for birthdays and other events. Venue and Service A small dining area with display and a few tables available. They have a drive thru as well and are efficient at moving people through the line. The Food We have become regulars now and for the most part stick to glazed donuts, frosted donuts (pink for my daughter!) and donut holes. The kolaches excel and the Bo Jackson, Jimmy Dean, and Jalapeno, Sausage and Cheese are the favorites. Everything is fresh and warmed up prior to serving. Display with some of our favorites. A closeup of the glazed and frosted donuts. Breakfast burrito. The portion was generous for the price. Summary and Score A breakfast staple in our household, Fresh Donuts can't be beat in town for good, quality, fresh donuts and kolaches. Rating: A+

Mason Jar 2

We waited a few weeks before trying Mason Jar 2 and can say we were pleasantly surprised by this meal. Venue and Service We dined indoors and were a bit put off with the curtains covering all light into the building (I assume this is to keep the temperature down as it was a bit warm in the dining room). We were told to take any open seat and sat in the corner. Plenty of crowd for an early dinner time and the room filled up as we stayed. There were only 3 servers working the dining room, but they were friendly and efficient as they took orders, filled drinks and served food. The Food We ordered two margaritas (delicious), buffalo chicken sandwich, kid's corn dog, and a chicken salad. The buffalo chicken sandwich was great. Plenty of sauce, pickles and toppings and it came out hot and crispy. The onion rings were an added bonus and would definitely order this entire meal again.. The chicken salad was plentiful, fresh and had a generous portion of toppings. The kid's corn dog w

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