The Windrow

This place is your typical small town sports bar that doubles as a restaurant. On one side you have a small, but nice bar area with a large horseshoe shaped bar and quite a few tables around the perimeter. On the other side you have a quaint little sit down, full service dining area complete with a salad bar.

The food on the bar side wasn't anything to rage about, but service was quick, friendly, and accommodating. They were more than happy to set up for a group of 50 of my dad's closest friends, even if we took up most of the bar for the evening.

The hard part was arranging everything so that my dad wouldn't find out since it was for his 80th birthday surprise party. There are only so many places in Creston Iowa to hold such a gathering while combining food and drink. The staff pulled it off without too many hitches. Everything was ready and waiting when we arrived, including all my dad's friends.

The food wasn't anything spectacular, but it was hot, fresh, and perfect for a birthday party. Everything was basically "finger food." There was a plate of different cheeses, crackers, and deli meats to begin with, and as the party progressed there were little sliders of beef or chicken, and also chicken tenders with a few different dipping sauces. All of which were decent enough.

At one point they ran out of food, which I believe was just a matter of not paying enough attention. However, they were quick to solve the problem and had more of everything out on the table before long. At the end of the night the cook came out and apologized for the mix up. We assured her it was no big deal and that she did a fantastic job.

The party was a great success and even brought a few tears to my father's eyes. It was an evening that the whole family will remember for a very long time.