+1 563-382-9463+ Add websiteImprove this listing
Hours
Wed
5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Thu
5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Fri
5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Sat
5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Details
Someone from this business manages this listing.
Learn More
PRICE RANGE
$10.00 – $30.00
CUISINES
American
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
meals, features
Does this restaurant offer table service?
Details
About
At Rubaiyat, we feature a seasonal American menu, emphasizing straight - forward, approachable cuisine that both looks and tastes clean and composed. This means simply but skillfully prepared ingredient - driven dishes that reveal our commitment to using the highest quality products, in season, and local when available. The inspiration behind Rubaiyat's menu reflect Chef Andy's classic and diverse culinary influences. Yet he's consistently led back to creating food that is distinctly contemporary, and as our name would have it, dishes that are "food for thought". As a result, Rubaiyat's refined seasonal American dishes combine four of the qualities that we value most: integrity, style, restraint, and playfulness. That is found in our personal mission to shape the dining experience around culinary delights from beginning to end. We insist on honoring the smallest details underlying the very rhythm of the restaurant, including our service. Come find out for yourself just why our staff is second to none. Cheers!! Andy & Kim Bonnet, Proprietors
PRICE RANGE
$10.00 – $30.00
CUISINES
American
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Meals
Dinner
FEATURES
Takeout, Reservations, Private Dining, Seating, Parking Available, Street Parking, Free off-street parking, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Non-smoking restaurants, Gift Cards Available
Contribute
4.5
307 reviews
Excellent
232
Very good
50
Average
13
Poor
5
Terrible
7
Ilse035
Decorah176 contributions
Apr 2020 • couples
Under quarantine, my husband and I have twice dined from Rubaiyat this month. Yesterday morning I called in our order of prime rib, baked potato, green beans, and Caesar salad for Scout. I chose the sweet and sour chicken with peppers and onions and gnocchi, the wedge salad, and bread. Scout picked up our dinners at 4:30 pm and we proceeded to demolish the prime rib (minus the horseradish sauce) and the salads. The bread is consistently good and topped with garlic butter and parmesan cheese. The savory wedge salad came with creamy dressing, bacon bits, diced tomato, and thin-sliced hardboiled egg. I had a few bites of the sweet and sour chicken and saved it for an excellent lunch for two today. We also split the baked potato with butter and sour cream. For dessert we enjoyed small glasses of Rubaiyat's Amana Colonies root beer.
Written April 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rubaiyat117
Thanks you so much for the kind words and supporting Decorah small business during these crazy times. It’s customers like you that make doing our jobs much easier!
Cheers
Kim & Andy
Written April 27, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Azona50036
Boone497 contributions
Nov 2021 • none
1st, this place often has a 2-3 day waiting time to get a reservation, so be aware. I was not aware, so was disappointed when I called to find out they were booked full for Friday and Saturday.
As we are from Boone, Ia, we were not going to be back anytime soon, but without much hope I put us down for a cancellation. WE WERE SO SURPRISED! When the owner/hostess called us and let us know there had been a cancellation! I had also wanted to get two of their homemade cinnamon rolls but was told they only had one left (you need to order these 24 hours ahead). Well, I'm glad they only had one and it was HUGE, plenty for me and my husband.
I got the prime with lobster sauce, huge chunks of lobster is a cheesy base. OMG!!! I have never had anything so good. Hub had the prime rib and swore it was the best he'd ever had.
Everyone was unbelievably friendly, made this "event" on of the best in Decorah! Thank you!
Written November 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Navigate528247
10 contributions
Feb 2020 • none
This was my first time at Rubaiyat's. My sister and I went here for some QT together. We started with delicious drinks. I had the pear martini and she had a moscow mule. They come in large cups- thank goodness because they're so good!!! Our server was Matthew. His enthusiasm and attention to detail did not go unnoticed. We tried the Duck Bruschetta for an appetizer. I can't even describe all the amazing flavors in this dish. We also had soup/salad and then the garlic scallops and shrimp for dinner. This seafood was sooooo good. (I had just returned from a Carribean cruise and the seafood at Rubaiyats was probably better than what I had on the cruise!!) We were stuffed but got the peanut butter chocolate dessert to go. It was a good choice. I must also say thanks to Kim and Andy for their great hospitality!!! This place is a must!
Written February 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
J C K
9 contributions
Feb 2020 • none
Went expecting nice meal and prepared to spend a little more. Service was ok no complaints, menue is a little short of basic fare but I new that before hand. I had the house salad with blue cheese dressing and it was good, ordered veal parm. and when they brought it I was quite pleased look very good. I should have stopped right there, the first bite was like a tough cheap cubed steak full of grissel. Not a cheap resturant and I would recomend going somewhere else . Dinner for two $65, never again!!
Written February 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rubaiyat117
Thanks for sharing your feedback. We’re sorry your experience didn’t match your expectations. We will use your review to continue to improve and meet expectations of all who come through our doors - our #1 Trip Advisor rating is a testament to that.
Written February 23, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
wintheisert
Rochester3 contributions
Jun 2021 • couples
I had the Ahi Tuna and it was delicious. It came atop a sugar waffle which I would best describe as a tasting like a waffle cone. The fries were seasoned perfectly and thin and crispy. I wish I was in town longer to try out more dished.
Written June 26, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Connie19492013
75 contributions
May 2020 • family
Had curbside pickup. Exceeded our expectations! We heard that the Pasta Rubaiyat has been on the menu the longest, and now we know why! Amazing! The Mahi-mahi and shrimp scampi were immediate fan favorites. The bread smelled so delicious and garlicy, I could hardly wait to tear into it...so good! Finished with peanut butter chocolate cake and lemon berry cheesecake which were wonderful! Paired with a fantastic wine chosen by Kim. Will definitely be back!
Written May 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
cdog612
Sioux Falls833 contributions
Jan 2022 • friends
We enjoyed the service and the atmosphere. Great wine selections. All meals have a salad choice or soup. The wedge and Caesar were amazing. The soup was tasty but cool. The pasta is incredible especially if you live seafood and it’s a generous portion size. The prime rib was already sold out when we arrived which was disappointing that early in the evening. The pork chop could have been more tender as well.
Written January 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kathy_1979_MU
Onalaska12 contributions
Apr 2023 • couples
If you desire a great meal, huge wine, beer and BOURBON selection, come to Rubiayat. We were lucky to find an open table, but we hear reservations are usually needed. Their spring menu had many great options. The Wild Argentine shrimp was amazing. Try the soup!
Written April 18, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mjjaaska
Minneapolis18 contributions
Sep 2021 • couples
First time here- checked it out based on previous reviews and was not disappointed. Charming, warm environment; excellent service (personable server and the owner greeted each table herself); and the food! Had the filet (even though I am a NY strip person) and it was so flavorful and cooked to perfection! The bread, salad, tomato soup: all fresh, creative, and flavorful. The prices are also quite reasonable. This is a must-visit for anyone visiting or living in Decorah!
Written September 5, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
traveltheworld012
Rochester17080 contributions
Oct 2022 • none
Our wedding anniversary is October 15. So in 2022 it happened to fall on a Saturday. Perfect! We invited another couple to come with us and made our reservation for 6 PM. We arrived at 5:55 Pm and I did not even have to speak my name, the hostess knew it and said, "Your table is ready". We were seated immediately and there even were glasses of water on the table waiting for us. The service here is nothing but spectacular!
The dining room was also recently remodeled and looks great. We enjoyed a bottle of red wine with our Apple Crisp Danish Brie appetizer. Delicious!
My wife had the Swedish Meatballs with Smashed Potatoes, green beans & Lingonberry Jam. I had the Pasta Rubaiyat - shrimp, scallop, blue crab with fresh basil on linguini and house made alfredo. The other couple had the Rustic Flatbread Pizza and the Brisket Burnt End Mac & Cheese. What a wonderful time we had and the dinners were absolutely everything we expected. Jackie J. was our server and was so pleasant as she provided us with all we desired for our palates. We love so much dining here. Hats off to the chef! and all the staff. Great place!!!
Written October 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kktooth
Iowa City50 contributions
Oct 2021 • couples
Great experience! Great staff and great food. Make sure you make reservations. Will definitely return! The filet, along with brussel spouts and mashed potatoes, was cooked perfectly.
Written October 17, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
traveltheworld012
Rochester17080 contributions
Oct 2024 • couples
We were here Saturday, October 19, 2024. We arrived right at 5 PM, in fact Kim unlocked the door to let us in. From that point we had a bad opinion of the place...
Before I continue with this review, I want to say that my wife and I had been coming here to dine for about 10 years now. We had made it our October wedding anniversary dinner for several years. Then also we have brought other couples with us on other occasions telling them how great this place was. From the 1st time dining here, we fell in love with the fine dinners, the friendly service and cozy ambiance. Kim even once sat at our table for a few minutes to chat. We always made reservations in advance. It used to be so nice. .. sad.
Back to my review.. Kim let us in, then asked for the name on our reservation. I said we don't have one. Kim then started being rude. She said "we have been booked solid for the last 3 days". Then practically yelling, reprimanded us, "next time make a reservation!!" I said, we were just passing through and thought we would stop... she cut me off and said, "go wait in the bar and -IF- we have a cancellation you may get a table in a couple hours". Not the warm and friendly Kim we dealt with in the past. We did sit at a table in the bar and fortunately Willem the bartender saved the evening for us. He was super nice to us. We each had a glass of wine and ordered the Saturday special. Prime Rib and baked potato. For what we received it was over-priced. We know prime rib is fatty, but my wife's was near 50% fat. Our baked potatoes were only half baked. The dessert was really good though - Lemon Berry Mascarpone Cake. Willem received a 20% tip. Kim walked by us several times during our meal, never said another word to us and wouldn't even look at us. Everyone else who came in- without reservations, was treated politely. We will now be looking for a different place to celebrate our anniversary and I don't think I can recommend this place to any more friends. Sorry, but we don't like being treated rudely.
Written October 21, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kim Bonnet
Thank you for the review. I appreciate you taking the time to write about how great our restaurant has been in the past. I also appreciate your kind words about Willem who works very hard for us.
October is the busiest month for us and yes, reservations in the dining room do typically fill up 3-5 days in advance especially on weekends so as I greeted you, I would ask if you had a reservation as I did for everyone else after you. We pride ourselves in customer service and I hold myself to that high standard as well. If in any way you felt I was being rude, I assure you, that was not my intention at all. I feel fortunate we have had interactions in the past with a positive outcome and again, am not sure how to reply to your comment on my rudeness. As it was busy and I do wear many hats, I do remember stopping by your table in the window of the bar and asking if things were ok and clearing a plate to take to the kitchen. I apologize I was not able to stop by sooner.
Prime Rib is a tricky one because we can’t control the size or fattiness of what we receive each week but glad you enjoyed the lemonberry- it is the longest tenured dessert on our menu.
Thank you again for your review and we will be sure to let Willem know you enjoyed his service.
Written October 22, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
John L
6 contributions
Dec 2022 • none
Rubiyat is a wonderful place. The service was perfect and the owner made the rounds checking that everyone was satisfied and also appreciated. The food was excellent, a treat to get beautiful salmon and seafood in Iowa. Thank you.
Written December 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gail B
Iowa City8 contributions
Jun 2024 • friends
One of the best things in Decorah! The food is outstanding, and the wine list is just great. Not to mention the BEST Ceasar Salad dressing in the world! The menu changes frequently and the dining area is really nice. However, if you're in the mood for a more casual experience, you can grab one of their delicious and unique special pizzas and a glass of wine in the bar.
Written June 26, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
EAT: EAT and TOUR, Oskaloosa Food Tours
Oskaloosa41 contributions
Aug 2024 • solo
I had an excellent meal and happened to be there on half price wine night (Wednesday) so bonus! The waiter was very attentive, he seemed to be fairly new but it appeared he had been trained. I had the pork shank--one of my favorite meals--and it was yummy.
Written August 29, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
…
Showing results 1-15 of 306
Best moderately priced restaurants
See all
Best nearby
We rank these hotels, restaurants, and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Best nearby hotels
See all 
Best nearby restaurants
See all 
Is This Your Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim Your Free Listing