When John Greiner reopened the doors of this beloved Boone diner, the Whistle Stop Cafe in 1998, he had no idea it would become the heart of downtown’s breakfast scene 🍳.
After spending years managing various food establishments including Pizza Hut and Hy-Vee Delis, Greiner discovered this family-owned treasure that had been closed for six months.
The small-town charm and opportunity to be his own boss proved irresistible to him and his wife Lynne.
NOTE: Whistle Stop Cafe is temporarily closed for repairs, but stayed tuned to their Facebook page to see when they re-open
How Whistle Stop Cafe won local’s hearts
The secret to Whistle Stop Cafe’s enduring popularity lies in its unwavering commitment to hometown hospitality and comfort food excellence.
John Greiner’s philosophy of treating every customer like family has created a “Cheers”-like atmosphere where regulars know their order will be ready before they even sit down ☕.
The cafe weathered significant challenges including a fire in 2012 and the COVID-19 pandemic, but these obstacles only strengthened the community’s support for the treasured gem.
During COVID, the introduction of $5-$7 daily lunch specials posted on Facebook became so popular that the tradition continues today, proving that quality food at affordable prices wins hearts every time 💕.
The genuine care for the community extends beyond just serving meals. John and Lynne regularly participate in school fundraisers, donate money for sports posters, and provide cinnamon rolls for district tournaments.
This generosity, combined with their consistent quality and friendly service, has transformed casual visitors into devoted regulars who consider the cafe their second home 🏠.
Food Highlights
- Squealing Trainwreck: A signature dish featuring breaded tenderloin topped with bacon, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and “Hog Wild” sauce served over waffle fries – a local favorite that embodies the cafe’s hearty comfort food philosophy
- Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: These legendary pancakes are so beloved that locals claim they’re the best in Iowa, combining the fluffiness of pancakes with the sweet, cinnamon goodness of fresh rolls
- Country Fried Steak and Eggs: Multiple reviewers have called this the “best they’ve ever had”, featuring perfectly seasoned steak smothered in sausage gravy alongside eggs and hash browns
- John’s Special: A generous scramble of three eggs with sautéed onions, green peppers, mushrooms, sausage, and cheese that showcases the chef’s personal touch
- Biscuits and Gravy: Made with fluffy, handmade biscuits and rich, peppery sausage gravy that has earned recognition as some of the finest comfort food in central Iowa
- Homemade Pies: Fresh daily selections that taste like “grandma made them”, providing the perfect sweet ending to any meal 🥧
Atmosphere
Step inside this classic 1950s-style diner and you’ll immediately feel the warm embrace of small-town hospitality 🚂.
The interior features an authentic lunch counter with spinning stools, cozy vinyl booths, and walls adorned with local memorabilia and vintage railroad signs that celebrate Boone’s Union Pacific heritage.
The open kitchen allows diners to watch John work his magic, and the “everybody knows your name” atmosphere creates an experience that feels more like visiting family than dining out.
Bottom Line
Visit for authentic small-town hospitality, legendary comfort food made with care, unbeatable prices with daily specials, genuine community atmosphere where strangers become friends, and consistent quality that has satisfied locals for over 25 years 🌟.
Address: 1102 Story Street, Boone, IA 50036
📞 (515) 432-9422
🕔 Open Mon-Fri, 6 AM–1:30 PM, Sat 6 AM–1 PM (closed Sun)