The Drake

The Drake is a restaurant in Burlington, IA, offering a unique dining experience with a focus on casual, family-friendly entertainment and fine wine. Located on the Mississippi Riverfront at the junction of Highway 34 and Front Street, it features a 200-seat indoor dining room and a 100-seat patio, both providing views of the river from nearly every seat. The Drake serves a variety of meals, including its signature Rockin' BBQ, and offers private party spaces such as The Vino Lounge, which accommodates up to 200 guests. Reservations and delivery are available by phone, and the restaurant operates from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, extending to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, with Sunday closures. It has earned a 4.30 rating from 8 customer reviews, reflecting a solid reputation among those it has served.

The Drake occupies a building originally constructed in 1906, part of a historic complex that once housed Drake Hardware, a business founded in 1864 and incorporated in 1899. The site sits in what was once the River District of downtown Burlington, a community established in 1834 and once named the capital of Iowa Territory. Over the years, the building and adjacent properties served various purposes, including as a hotel, auto repair shop, and manufacturing site, reflecting the area’s industrial and commercial heritage. The restaurant continues this legacy by preserving the historic character of the location while offering modern dining and event services.

The Drake is situated on Washington Street, just a short walk from several key civic landmarks. It lies about 0.1 miles from the Des Moines County Courthouse, the Burlington Police Department, and the Des Moines County Sheriff’s office, all within a block. It is also near the Burlington Post Office, Columbia Street, and North Main Street, placing it in the heart of downtown’s administrative and public service district.

With a reputation built on consistent customer satisfaction and a deep connection to the local community, The Drake stands out as a longstanding destination for dining and events in Burlington. Its blend of historic setting, scenic riverfront views, and reliable service makes it a notable presence in the city’s restaurant scene.