Located at 225 S Main St, Monticello, IA, "Darrell's A Family Tradition" has quickly become a cherished spot for both locals and travelers alike. This quaint diner embodies the essence of old-school charm, offering a welcoming atmosphere where patrons feel like family. Numerous reviews highlight its homemade comfort food and friendly service, making it a perfect pit stop during your travels.
Jonathan Gennick praises the breakfast offering, particularly the perfectly cooked eggs, while enjoying the camaraderie among guests—a true hallmark of a community diner. Meanwhile, Brian Womachka applauds the delicious onion rings and the affordable prices. Mandy Hamilton's satisfaction with the food's affordability and taste emphasizes the diner’s role as a vital dining option for those on the road.
Another standout, the meat lovers skillet, has received rave reviews for its hearty combination of fried potatoes, cheese, and eggs, showcasing the diner’s ability to deliver delicious comfort food that warms the soul. Jim Lynch's experience with their hand-breaded fish dinner further cements the establishment's dedication to homemade quality and timely service. With all these elements combined, "Darrell's A Family Tradition" isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that keeps you coming back for more.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has drive-through
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Serves great coffee
Serves great dessert
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Has all you can eat
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Quiet
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts cheques
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Photos
Reviews For Darrell's A Family Tradition
Jonathan Gennick
Jul 6,2025
I had breakfast here at the recommendation of the motel clerk's boyfriend as I was passing through on a long drive to Missouri. I give five stars for the old school diner experience. I'll admit to being a little doubtful from the outside, but breakfast was on point and the eggs were cooked to perfection. Everyone in this restaurant seemed to know each other. There was a good bit of conversation across the tables. I probably could have joined right in. The atmosphere felt welcoming. Not sure whether I'll ever pass this way again, but I really did enjoy my overnight in Monticello.
Brian Womachka
Jun 29,2025
The food was great! Really, liked the onion rings. Friendly service. Very reasonably priced. We will be back
Mandy Hamilton
Jun 22,2025
Very affordable, delicious food. Was the only place open we could find. Was very happy to find it during our travel
Glass Diamond
Jun 3,2025
Great home cooked comfort food. Had the meat lovers skillet which includes thinly sliced fried potatoes on the bottom. Then, covered with shredded cheese and two eggs. Mine were sunny side up. So delicious. If you ever get down this way, be sure to stop. Lunch and dinner are also served.
jim lynch
Jun 2,2025
Had 4 fish dinners 4/21/24- just a wonderful experience, everything we had was home made, hand breaded etc- teriffic friendly service and fair prices. Food arrived super hot and timely. We even took home some cinnamon rolls (they smelled too good to resist). for a Diner- I was totally blown away by the quality of our meal here. I would highly recommend this resturant!
David Barrios
May 6,2025
Great place. Ate twice for breakfast. Would visit them again. Nice prices.
Linda Varvel
May 4,2025
**More than meets the eye- delicious!** We stopped at Darrell’s on our way north and we’re pleasantly surprised at the quality and taste of all things offered. They have a lunch buffet that my husband and I had, which included delicious fried fish and fried chicken, amazing green beans, and yummy ham and cheese soup. Our kids had a hamburger and a BLT and both enjoyed the food. The prices were very reasonable and we highly recommend stopping here if you’re in Monticello.
Joe Reitz
Apr 6,2025
Asi was a very pleasant waitress and the food was EXCELLENT! Great find a little off the highway.
Reviews For Darrell's A Family Tradition