Dairy Sweet, a beloved local restaurant in Dunlap, Iowa, owned by Lori and Greg Thomsen, has secured the prestigious title of Iowa’s Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin for 2024. This honor marks a return to glory for the establishment, which first won the contest in 2005 under the ownership of Lori’s parents. After taking over in 2013, Lori and Greg relocated Dairy Sweet to Main Street, where it has continued to build a reputation for serving top-tier pork tenderloin sandwiches.
Organized by the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA), the annual contest drew nearly 6,000 nominations from 532 restaurants across Iowa this year. Following an anonymous evaluation process, Dairy Sweet emerged as the top contender among a competitive field of five finalists. This victory is particularly special for Dairy Sweet, making it the first restaurant in the 22-year history of the contest to win more than once.
Lori and Greg have honed their tenderloin recipe over the years, using only center-cut boneless pork loin, tenderized in-house to ensure quality and consistency. With an impressive 40,000 pork tenderloin sandwiches served annually, Dairy Sweet has become a destination not just for locals but for visitors from nearby communities and beyond.
“This win is a reflection of the dedication of our team and community,” said Lori Thomsen. “We’re proud to continue the legacy started by my parents, and it’s especially meaningful as a way to honor their memory. It also makes me excited to bring my own children, Mandi and Logan, into the family business.”
Judge Phil Carey, who helped select the winner, praised Dairy Sweet’s tenderloin, noting its tender texture and flavorful balance. “You know you’re in the right place when you walk in and see most of the customers enjoying a breaded pork tenderloin. The light breading really complemented the pork, and the overall flavor was excellent.”
The Iowa Pork Producers Association will officially present Dairy Sweet with a $500 cash prize, a plaque, and a banner to celebrate their achievement. This year’s runner-up, Ruby’s Bar & Grill in Stuart, Iowa, will receive a $250 prize and a plaque.
This contest is part of National Pork Month, celebrating Iowa’s pork producers and recognizing restaurants that serve hand-breaded or battered pork tenderloin year-round. Other top finalists for 2024 include Bronson Bar in Bronson, Blind Pig in Monticello, and The Market at the Tap, also in Monticello.
To learn more about past winners and this year’s nominees, visit Iowa Pork’s website.
