Overview

Starbuck's Drive-In, nestled at 1620 W Lincoln Hwy in Nevada, Iowa, stands as a nostalgic beacon for fast food enthusiasts craving classic American flavors served with a local touch. This modest fast food restaurant offers a menu rich in hearty sandwiches and indulgent treats that capture the spirit of roadside dining. The standout is undoubtedly their Tenderloin Sandwich, a celebrated staple that has built the eatery’s reputation over time. However, recent feedback suggests that some longtime patrons have noticed shifts in its preparation, pointing to changes in breading texture and frying that alter the once-perfect bite. Still, this does not overshadow the comfort and heartiness that defines their signature pork tenderloin experience.

Complementing the savory options, Starbuck's Drive-In delights with an array of dessert cyclones—creamy, flavorful shakes generously mixed with toppings like 3 Musketeers, Hot Fudge Brownie, and Peanut Butter Cup. These cyclones offer a satisfying, sweet finish to any meal and are frequently praised for their rich texture and balanced sweetness. The Ice Cream Cone, although small, serves as a simple but joyful pause amid the larger menu offerings.

In addition to the classic American fare, there is a touch of variety with a Mexican-inspired Corn Taco, adding a subtle twist for adventurous eaters. The Hungry Man Burger, Giant Beefburger, and Jumbo Beef Burger with Bacon Cheeseburger round out the sandwich selections, offering substantial, flavor-packed options that cater well to customers looking for a filling meal.

The atmosphere at Starbuck's Drive-In is casual and unfussy, fitting its role as a quick-stop drive-in favored by locals and families alike. While some visitors have noted dated service and cleanliness issues during quieter times, many still appreciate the genuine local vibe and friendly familiarity of the staff, especially regulars who return for their beloved shakes and fries. The eatery’s space speaks to an era when roadside joints were community fixtures rather than polished dining spots, which adds to its charm and appeal.

Targeting a diverse audience, Starbuck's Drive-In caters to families, travelers, and anyone seeking no-frills fast food with a side of nostalgia. It provides a dependable choice for ice cream lovers and burger aficionados alike, suffused with Midwestern hospitality. Whether you're after a classic pork tenderloin sandwich or a generous chocolate malt, Starbuck's Drive-In is rooted in delivering comfort food with familiar warmth, making it a worthwhile stop along the Lincoln Highway.


Amenities & Services

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Coffee
Quick bite
Vegetarian options
Atmosphere
Casual

What Customers Say

K C
Sep 7,2025
4/5
I’m not sure if they’ve changed their pork tenderloin breading recipe, but it was definitely different than the last time I ate here. Chunks of what look like saltine crackers in the breading. And they’d been fried too long, they were very tough. It’s a shame because when I was here in 2021 it was the best pork tenderloin in Iowa! Fried mushrooms and the shake were good, though!
Mike Wolfe
Sep 7,2025
5/5
The best spot for local fast food and ice cream
chris zook
Sep 7,2025
5/5
Neither was his, fries were hot and hot fudge malt was great as always!
Jason Bishop
Sep 7,2025
5/5
My mom's favorite place, great food and the chocolate malt is awesome:)
Willy Wonks
Sep 7,2025
4/5
Only had one encounter here and the kids working there weren’t and didn’t have a whole lot of friendly customer service which wasn’t a big deal. All the tables were dirty when we sat so that was interesting considering there were only 2 people there when we walked in. Prices definitely went up and sizes went down. There was also a 50 cent charge for using a card to pay which I thought was kind of pricey. The large cherry malt and large peanut butter shake we got was very good though and would definitely recommend. Hoping to come back and try the food next time.
Jim Crabb
Sep 7,2025
4/5
Returned to Story County Staple Starbucks Fast Food today. When I walked in an employee was taking out the trash, which is always a good sign! Counter help said they were very busy today, so its easy to see how cleanliness can get overlooked... Service was fast and friendly (for me). I had the jumbo beefburger and fries, with everything, good as usual, fries were almost perfect, not greasy at all. Only complaints was the meat was a little dry in the burger, and the ice machine was out of ice, and restaurant needed sweeping. Overall, in a business run by probably high schoolers and college peeps, not bad. I will return!

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM
Tuesday 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM
Wednesday 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM
Thursday 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM
Friday 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM
Saturday 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM
Sunday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
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