Taylor Maid-Rite Review Marshalltown
“Maid-Rite” restaurants started as a single outlet in Muscatine, Iowa, in 1926. For those unfamiliar with the term, the “Maid-Rite” is a loose meat sandwich, cooked on a steam table with onions, mustard, and “secret seasonings,” piled on a steamed bun with mustard and pickles.
Locations come and go, but as of today, there are 32 locations in Ohio, Iowa, Nebraska, Illinois, Minnesota, and Missouri. The one in Springfield, Illinois, was the site of the very first fast food drive-thru.
The Marshalltown location was one of the first franchises, purchased for $300 in 1928.
Some Maid-Rites have a longer menu, featuring all kinds of sandwiches, including Iowa’s famous pork tenderloin, but almost all feature several kinds of home-made pie daily.
This happy traveler made a short video of his visit to Taylor’s. (No, not me, I’m never happy).
A single sandwich is around $2.50. The Marshalltown location is usually open every day for long hours, but during “Covid” – look for them Tues-Sat, 11AM – 7PM. It’s located in downtown, on 3rd Street, just north of US 30, the Lincoln Highway, the first transcontinental road in the US. A fascinating drive on its own!
I visited one other similar shop this trip, called the “Canteen on the Alley” in Ottumwa, Iowa. Same concept, but not affiliated with “Maid-Rite.” It’s actually in an alley. It was tasty and great pie! The three women working truly enjoyed their work!
Typical menu. Ship Maid-Rites across the country!
Taylor Maid-Rite Review Marshalltown
Ship Maid-Rites
Maid-Rite Menu