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Ford's Garage Brings 1920s Automotive Nostalgia to Iowa
New restaurant chain plans up to 3 locations in Iowa cities over next 5 years.
Published on Feb. 7, 2026
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Ford's Garage, a 1920s-themed burger and craft beer restaurant inspired by The Ford Motor Company, is expanding to Iowa with plans to open up to three new locations in the next five years. The first Iowa restaurant is expected to open by January 2027, with potential sites in Des Moines, Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport.
Why it matters
Ford's Garage offers a unique dining experience that blends comfort food, craft beer, and vintage automotive nostalgia, which is a new concept for Iowa diners. The expansion into Iowa is part of the restaurant chain's nationwide growth strategy, bringing its 1920s-inspired decor and menu to new markets.
The details
Ford's Garage was founded in 2012 in Florida and now has 33 locations across 8 states. The new Iowa restaurants will be owned by franchisee Mike Conatser and his Quad Assembly LLC. The menu features burgers, salads, sandwiches, and classic comfort foods like macaroni and cheese and meatloaf, all served in a 1920s garage-themed atmosphere with classic cars, gas pumps, and other automotive decor.
- Ford's Garage first opened in Fort Myers, Florida in 2012.
- The restaurant chain currently has 33 locations across 8 states.
- The new Iowa deal was announced on January 27, 2026.
- The first Iowa location is expected to open by January 2027.
- The deal includes a 5-year timeline to open up to 3 restaurants in Iowa.
The players
Ford's Garage
A 1920s-themed burger and craft beer restaurant chain inspired by The Ford Motor Company.
Mike Conatser
The franchisee who will own and operate the new Ford's Garage restaurants in Iowa through his company Quad Assembly LLC.
What they’re saying
“I'm originally from Detroit, so Ford has always had a special place in my heart. The atmosphere, the quality of the food, and the level of service at Ford's Garage really hit every note. There's nothing like it in Iowa, and we're excited to bring something truly new and memorable to these communities.”
— Mike Conatser, Franchisee (usatoday.com)
What’s next
The first Ford's Garage restaurant in Iowa is expected to open by January 2027, with up to two more locations planned over the following 4 years.
The takeaway
Ford's Garage is bringing its unique blend of automotive-themed dining, comfort food, and craft beer to Iowa, offering residents a new and nostalgic dining experience that is not currently available in the state.
