Started in the 1920s, Canteen Lunch in the Alley is a local favorite to the people of Ottumwa Iowa and also a destination location for people around the world. In fact, they have a world map that has pins in it to signify where all the visitors have come from. Canteen is known for their pie and also their world famous "loose meat burger". Unlike traditional patty based burgers, a loose meat burger is kind of like sloppy joe style burgers except the meat is not covered in sauce. Instead, they put lots of cheese on the bun and the meat and let you choose what fixings you would like.

The actually restaurant is very small and always crowded. Featuring just a single horseshoe sized counter, it is hard to grab a seat. Good news is that you can get your order to go so you don't have to wait. Canteen has delicious homemade pies and delicious malts much like the burger joints from way back when. Speaking of history, Canteen was actually supposed to be demolished by the City of Ottumwa in favor of building a parking garage in the exact same spot. The citizens of Ottumwa rose up and prevented the city from getting rid of one of their oldest and most delicious establishments. So a compromised was reached. Canteen gets to stay and a parking garage would be built above and around the famed restaurant.

If you are ever in Ottumwa Iowa, make sure you stop by and try one of the best "loose meat burgers" in the world!