It Started with a Restaurant

In 1960, Kalmes Restaurant opened its doors in Dubuque, Iowa, quickly becoming known throughout the Midwest for serving some of the most flavorful, tender steaks anyone had ever tasted. The secret? A proprietary seasoning and tenderizing blend developed by the Kalmes family - a recipe that would be passed down through five generations.

For decades, locals and travelers alike made the pilgrimage to our restaurant, drawn by word-of-mouth about steaks that were simply unforgettable. The seasoning became legendary, but remained our closely guarded secret, used exclusively in the restaurant.

Five Generations of Flavor

What started as one family's passion for great food has evolved into a multi-generational commitment to quality. Each generation has added their own touch while respecting the original recipe that made Kalmes Restaurant famous. Today, we're proud to be a five-generation family business, still based in Dubuque, Iowa, still committed to the same standards of excellence that our great-great-grandparents established over the years. 

Bringing the Secret Home

After countless requests from customers who wanted to recreate that famous Kalmes flavor at home, we made a decision: it was time to share our family secret. We carefully developed our Kalmes Famous  Seasoning & Tenderizer to bring the authentic Kalmes Restaurant experience to home cooks everywhere.

Now, you don't have to travel to Dubuque to enjoy legendary Iowa flavor. Whether you're grilling steaks in your backyard, frying up chicken for Sunday dinner, or preparing a special meal for loved ones, our premium blends deliver the same restaurant-quality results that made Kalmes famous.

Iowa Heritage, Premium Quality

We're proud of our Iowa roots. Our products reflect the Midwest values we were raised with: honest ingredients, no shortcuts, and a commitment to quality that never wavers. Every bottle of Kalmes Famous  contains the same care and attention to detail that went into every steak served at Kalmes Restaurant.

When you use our seasonings and breading mixes, you're not just cooking - you're continuing a 60-year tradition of culinary excellence. You're bringing a piece of Iowa heritage to your table. And you're joining the Kalmes family in our mission to make every meal memorable.

From Our Family to Yours

Thank you for trusting us with your family meals. We know that food brings people together, creates memories, and shows love. That's why we've spent five generations perfecting these recipes - so you can create those special moments with confidence, knowing your using the best 

Here's to great food, family traditions, and many more years of Iowa flavor.

- The Kalmes Family