The Tribute Eatery and Bar

The District at Prairie Trail in Ankeny continues to evolve into a bustling mini city center. The ever-expanding area offers an abundance of shops and services, along with restaurant and drinking establishments.

One spot recently turned over. It is from the same owner, so it was a friendly exchange. The Tribute Eatery and Bar took over the former 30Hop location, while 30Hop moved across the street. The co-owners and operating partners are part of Craft Concepts, which was established in the Iowa City area. With about 25 different bars, breweries and restaurants, they also have presence in other local joints, such as Big Grove Brewery and Lua Brewing.

With successful backing and a business model, Tribute knows hospitality. Inside, the area is revamped for a modern, classic look. Tables and booths in the dining and bar areas are roomy and not crowded, so the servers won’t be bumping your chairs on their way to another table. A large, round room is separated into a nook area with five booths and a table spotlit underneath a chandelier. Large windows overlook the downtown District, nearly resembling a big city.

A few televisions by the bar showed sports with no sound. Instead, piped-in music set the mood. The playlist had an upbeat, soft-rock, jazzy feel to it, providing that just-right atmosphere at a low level so patrons can easily talk.

Arriving at happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. is a smart way to sample appetizers and at a fraction of the cost. The Cosmo martini was just $6. Other happy hour drink specials include $5 draught beer, $8 old fashioneds and more.

Small happy hour bites include the burrata for $9 (regular $14), which includes fresh burrata cheese with heirloom tomatoes, seasonings, served on greens, with toasted focaccia. Oyster lovers can get one for just $2 (with a minimum purchase of three). The flavorful gochujang crispy fried chicken costs $7.

Other menu items include a wide selection of classic entrees and seafood, such as roasted chicken, pasta dishes, fish and chips and scallops. Handhelds start at $16 and include a Cubano. Entrée salads offer vegetarian options from $15-$19.

Their Blueline specials include a tasty selection each day of the week. Choose from a bone-in pork chop for $27 on Monday or a miso-glazed king salmon for $33 on Tuesdays. Other daily specials includes smoked ribeye, mushroom risotto, shrimp and lobster bucatini and wagyu meatloaf. If you are a prime rib fan, stop in on Sundays for $39.

Kid’s menu items are available for $9.50. However, we didn’t see any youngsters on the recent trip there. Brunch is served on weekends, starting at 9 a.m. A return trip is a must to try the smoked salmon toast for $15 or the lobster BLT for $33.

During the summer months, sit outside on the large wrap-around patio, which offers both shade and sunny options. It is a perfect spot to gather during the summer’s outdoor concerts and other events.

Service was spot on. Darin — Tribute’s co-owner — thoughtfully answered questions and greeted patrons. Witnessing a passionate and attentive staff makes for an ideal dining experience, earning a spot on my “must return” list. ♦