Tabascocat,
First of all, welcome to Roadfood. Thanks for the comments on the Iowa places.
We stopped at the Iowa Beefsteak place in Des Moines a couple of times in the 90’s and the last time we were there (’99) It had appeared pretty "run-down". Have they done any renovating or up-dating the place since then. The steaks were outstanding (pork chops also) and as you say the sides were not something to write much about, but paired with the good beef, they were ok.
Let me know if it has improved in appearance or ‘wear n tear’ and we’ll keep in on our list for future stops.
Thanks, AL