A well-known restaurant in Iowa that just last year won the title of “Best Burger in Iowa” has suddenly closed down, surprising many locals and fans across the state. Flight Bar + Grille, located in Huxley, earned the prestigious honor in 2023 for their signature “Foundation Burger.”
But despite all the love and attention, the owners announced this week that the restaurant is officially closed.
The Foundation Burger, which made the restaurant famous, featured a mouth-watering combination of ingredients: a smashed patty, cheddar cheese, bacon, and a homemade garlic aioli served on a toasted bun.
It was praised for its flavor and presentation, and after winning the title, the restaurant saw a lot of new customers walking through the doors.
However, even with all the hype and a loyal customer base, Flight Bar + Grille faced behind-the-scenes challenges.
According to the owners, the decision to close came after serious discussions and wasn’t taken lightly. They said it was time for a new chapter and thanked the community for all the love and support over the past few years.
The restaurant had become a community favorite, not just for its burgers, but also for its atmosphere and events. Many regulars took to social media to share their sadness and memories from the place. Some even mentioned how proud they felt when the Foundation Burger got statewide recognition.
Winning the Best Burger award had put Flight Bar + Grille in the spotlight. The Iowa Beef Industry Council, which runs the contest, had chosen the restaurant based on customer nominations and secret judging.
The news of their win had drawn food lovers from across Iowa to Huxley, eager to try the burger everyone was talking about.
Now, with its sudden closure, many are left wondering what happened behind the scenes. The owners haven’t shared all the details, but it’s clear that running a restaurant—even a successful one—comes with pressures that aren’t always visible from the outside.
The closure of Flight Bar + Grille is a reminder that even with awards, popularity, and community support, small businesses often face tough realities. For those who got to try the Foundation Burger while it lasted, the memories will stay.