The hot dogs are unapologetically oversized at Daisy’s Dog House,
The half‑pound, all‑beef Smithfield wieners are served on a 12‑inch Hy‑Vee bun, available with a large selection of toppings.
Owner Rusty Brammer says he hasn’t found another place in Iowa — or within 500 miles — serving the same hot dogs.
“We’re the only ones around here serving these Smithfield footlongs,” Brammer said.
The result is a menu built around big flavor, big portions and a sense of humor that runs through every dish.
Daisy’s offers a menu with character
Daisy’s lineup of specialty dogs ranges from classic to bold. The Windy City, the restaurant’s take on a Chicago dog, comes loaded with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, pickles, poppy seeds and celery salt.
The Southern Belle is Daisy’s chili dog and remains one of the top sellers. The Barnyard Baller stacks pulled pork, bacon, cheese and a choice of barbecue, buffalo or the newly added hot honey sauce.
That hot honey option is quickly becoming a favorite.
“A lot of people are getting that lately,” Brammer said.
The menu also includes hot dogs topped with chicken or pulled pork, plus a mac and cheese bowl for diners who want something beyond a dog.
The restaurant’s personality shines in the nacho offerings as well. Daisy’s Naked Nachos start with Fritos Scoops smothered in chunky chili and topped with cheddar, jalapeños, sour cream, tomato and ranch.
Daisy’s also offers a full bar.
Bingo that packs the room at Daisy’s Dog House
Food may be the focus, but Friday nights at Daisy’s Dog House have developed a following of their own. Back Alley Bingo starts at 8 p.m. — or “8‑ish,” depending on how busy the kitchen is — and is hosted by a drag performer.
The crowd is a lively mix of regulars, newcomers and groups looking for a night out.
“It’s the best bingo you’re probably ever going to go to if you’re used to the really serious ones,” Brammer said. Prizes come from the Dollar Tree, but the energy is the real draw.
Daisy’s recently expanded its hours and now stays open through the afternoon. The restaurant is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to midnight, Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday. It remains closed on Mondays.
For Brammer, the goal is simple − serve great food, welcome everyone and keep the atmosphere light.
“The people who come in here have a great time,” he said.
With oversized hot dogs, comfort‑food sides, playful nachos and a Friday bingo night that fills the room, Daisy’s Dog House is carving out its own place in Ames, one footlong at a time.
Daisy’s Dog House
Location: 1620 S. Kellogg Ave.
Contact: daisysdoghouseames.com
Ronna Faaborg covers business and the arts for the Ames Tribune. Reach her at rfaaborg@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Ames Tribune: Daisy’s Dog House leans into big flavor and bingo‑night fun
Reporting by Ronna Faaborg, Ames Tribune / Ames Tribune
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