5th Quarter Bar & Grill

This is one of those places that doesn't look like much and is situated in the middle of nowhere. But those are usually some of the best joints. The four of us had fun here. The waiter was crazy...had a super fun personality. He picked up our vibe pretty fast and ran with it...kept us laughing the whole time. Very fun dude. None-in wings are awesome. Fried really well without being greasy at all. They were some of the biggest wings I've ever eaten. We got breaded wings as an app and then my wife got the naked wings as her dinner. Both were awesome. Easily a top two or three contender for best wings in the area in my opinion. Pizza was pretty good. Big. The pork tenderloin was thick and really good. Easy 5 stars. Great first experience.

I became the first winner of "The Heater" challenge at 5th Quarter Bar & Grill in Van Meter, Iowa. The challenge consists of 2 fried tenderloins, 2 hamburger patties, grilled onions, jalapeños, mango habanero sauce, & pepper-jack cheese. There is also 1 pound of fries included. Van Meter is 20 miles west of Des Moines, along I-80. It is a town of about 1,500 people. There is a great story about how this food challenge got its name. Bob Feller (1918-2010) was born in Van Meter. He was a pitcher & played 17 seasons for the Cleveland Indians between 1936 and 1956. He had many accolades throughout his career, including 8x All-Star, World Series Champion, pitched 3 no-hitters, & had his number retired by the Cleveland Guardians. His nickname was the "Heater from Van Meter". Another thing I found fascinating, was that during his professional baseball career, he took a break to volunteer to serve in the United States Navy during World War II. Contestants have 30 minutes to finish. I finished in 26:05. For winning, I received the $40 meal for free, a tshirt, & a spot on the wall of fame. Huge thanks to owner Krystle for having such a fun challenge! Iowa is home to many great tenderloin sandwiches. If you want one of the best, head to the 5th Quarter!

This is my second visit here and not disappointed. We don't make it out this way very often. The parking lot is easy and cozy right by the railroad tracks. We came right after opening on a Saturday morning. We were a table of 4. Since we were so early, we got a seat right away. My dad had been craving the tenderloin. He ordered the tenderloin with a side of onion rings. Mom ordered a salad that comes with a breadstick. I ordered the tenderloin with fries to spit with my hunny. On top of what we got we ordered the breakfast shot that was on the menu. Although it was not like what I have had elsewhere but it was good, and it came with bacon. The meals came out fast and were all really good. I really enjoyed the breaded fried tenderloin. I would definitely have it again. The last time we were here was a Sunday and they only do breakfast on Sundays. That weekend it was a special that you could get the tenderloin egg sandwich, which was fund and different. Today with the great service and fun atmosphere we enjoyed the tenderloin that we all had been craving. There is a nice full menu here and I would recommend stopping by and supporting local!

I love all the greasy food on the menu and the blue cups are cute. The people working were SUPER nice and friendly.

After some great communication with the staff via Facebook, I was able to arrange a time to stop in and attempt to the Heater burger challenge at 5th Quarter in Van Meter, Ia. I was greeted upon arrival with my 2 boys and told we could sit wherever, only a couple other tables were occupied. I explained I was there for their challenge and no hesitation from our waitress Tegan. My boys shared the pulled pork nachos and both couldn't get enough of the pork, must mean it was really good as they normally will devour the chips first. My plate came and other patrons even told me good luck, small town charm. As for the sandwich, it was very good. If I HAD to find any fault, I would say the burger patties were a tad too done, but not too bad. The tenderloins were very juicy, and there were a ton of jalapeños, which was good for me. Had great service from Tegan through our meal, asked several times if we needed anything else and anything we did need was tended to immediately. I would highly recommend the tenderloin if you visit. I definitely hope to back again.

Excellent service, I believe it was the owner. My pork and my sons burger were very good. House made cole slaw was quite good. A bit too much dressing for my taste but my wife liked it. Son thought it was too peppery but he doesn't do any spice.Seasoned waffle fries were great. My wife's chicken sandwich was too salty.

What a fun place to visit for foodies. I wasn't sure what to expect when we arrived but once we seen some of the food delivered to another table, we immediately knew that we needed to order something. I had a special (Sunday breakfast) that was the tenderloin sandwich with 2 eggs, cheese and bacon. Picture posted for it. It was as amazing as it looks. I struggled to get through it and wished after it was over I had some leftover for later because It was so good. I couldnt imagine a better breakfast sandwich and I really hope they make this a regular item on the menu as I am ready to go get another one!

I'm a tenderloin eater, I can tell you the best place in just about any county in Iowa, I've had them all. This place has the best in Iowa, hands down. Bold statement I know and I don't make that comment lightly but it is a fact. That's all I know about this place.

Try their amazing onion rings. My sons loved their pork tenderloin sandwiches. Their selection of cocktails was impressive. This place was absolutely packed when we were there--and I can see why. Just a great ambiance. Lots of tvs, friendly staff, quick service.

Good service, outstanding tenderloins. Fun place to enjoy excellent food. Short drive from Waukee