Iowa's Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin Contest

Few things say "Iowa" like a golden, crispy breaded pork tenderloin hanging way past the edges of the bun.

Since 2003, the Iowa Pork Producers Association has set out each year to find the best one in the state. Iowans nominate their favorites, our judges hit the road, and one restaurant earns the title of Iowa's Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin.

Meet the 2026 Champion: Wasted Grain, Carroll

Out of 464 restaurants nominated by Iowans, Wasted Grain rose to the top. Co-owner Cory Handlos set out to recreate the tenderloin he grew up eating at Darrell’s Place in Hamlin, the contest’s first winner in 2003. His secret is to tenderize the pork just once and add a little extra meat so every bite balances pork, breading and bun.

Runner-up: Friends Hide-A-Way, Underwood

2026 Finalists
Congratulations to this year's other top five finalists.

Go Taste For Yourself

Each of these restaurants has earned its spot, so plan a tenderloin road trip and try them all. When you do, snap a photo and tag us @IowaPork.

Prefer to cook at home? Try our breaded pork tenderloin recipe and how-to video.

How the Contest Works

Nominate. Each spring, the public nominates restaurants that serve a hand-breaded or hand-battered pork tenderloin sandwich on their regular menu. Nominations must be submitted through the official online form; email and social media nominations aren't counted.

Judge. Judges visit qualifying restaurants and score each tenderloin. It's about more than size: they look for pork that's tender and flavorful, with breading that complements it.

Crown a champion. A final panel tastes the top five and selects the winner and runner-up.

Who's eligible?

Restaurants must be open year-round with regular hours. Food trucks, concession stands, seasonal establishments and caterers are not eligible.See official rules.

The Prizes

Winner: $500, a plaque and an outdoor banner
Runner-up: $250 and a plaque

And the bragging rights? Priceless. Past finalists have seen big jumps in customers and tenderloin sales as fans travel from across Iowa and the Midwest to try them.

Past Champions

2025: Hometown Heroes, Grinnell | Read more
Runner-up: The 1854, Gilbertville
Also in the top five: Dexfield Diner & Pub (Redfield), Sugar's Lounge & Diner (Council Bluffs), Walker's (Salix)

2024: Dairy Sweet, Dunlap | Read more
Runner-up: Ruby's Pub and Grill, Stuart
Also in the top five: Bronson Bar (Bronson), The Blind Pig (Monticello), The Market at the Tap (Monticello)  

Every winner since 2003: See the complete list of winners and finalists.