Zeke’s Rooftop and Grill brings elevated dining and patio vibes to Johnston Town Center

Zeke’s Rooftop and Grill
6201 Merle Hay Road, Johnston
Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Friday, 11 a.m. to midnight
Saturday, 9 a.m. to midnight
Sunday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Johnston continues to expand its “new” downtown with the Johnston Town Center, and one of the latest additions is Zeke’s Rooftop and Grill.

Zeke’s is named after one of Johnston’s earliest settlers, Ezekiel and Mary Hunt, and opened in January 2026.

Zeke’s includes two levels of fun, food and the breezy outdoor vibes Iowans crave. The expansive patio features indoor and outdoor areas, along with a full bar. A large party room upstairs also includes a bar and is available for private events. Most recently, it was the scene for March Madness watch parties.

The upstairs patio offers just as much space as the lower-level restaurant. Head over this summer for a bird’s-eye view of The Yard and its Tunes at Twilight concert series. Or, on Tuesdays, stop in for a drink before or after the Johnston Town Center’s farmers market.

Inside, the décor features an industrial look with black exposed ceilings, cement floors, and tan and brown seating. If you are waiting for a table, sink into the comfortable chairs near the entrance and read about Zeke’s history on the wall. A wraparound outdoor patio on the lower level adds more seating.

The menu ranges from Brussels sprouts starters to chicken pesto gnocchi entrees, plus everything in between. The trash can nachos ($18) arrive in a mini trash can; when it’s lifted, loaded nachos spill onto the plate. The dish includes chips, beef, salsa, guacamole and two kinds of cheese. The concept traces back to TV chef Guy Fieri, who popularized serving nachos this way to ensure even layering.

The pizzas feature fresh ingredients with local flair, including corn, Graziano sausage and tenderloins. The Peter P’s Pot Roast pizza stands out. The unusual combination includes roast beef, marinara, jalapeno tater kegs, mozzarella and cream cheese, drizzled with gravy. It works. Order it as a flatbread ($12) or a pizza for $23.

Other options include liver and onions, homemade rigatoni with Graziano sausage, grain bowls, salmon and entree salads — something for every palate. Save room for dessert. Chocolate lovers should try the skillet chocolate chip cookie or brownie, each topped with ice cream and drizzled with chocolate and caramel sauce ($8).

A full bar offers signature drinks. The Soju Mojito blends Soonhari Strawberry Soju, lime, mint and club soda ($10). The Gilligan’s Island is a tropical mix of gin, pineapple and coconut liqueurs.

Zeke’s is open for weekend brunch and until midnight on weekends. As patio season gets into full swing, add Zeke’s to your must-visit list this summer. ♦