The Iron Horse Charitone — Restaurant in Chariton

After numerous attempts to see if the quality of the food and/or service would improve much I’m sad it’s say the 1 Star is well deserved. Speaking only of the latest “curb side” experience. Food was missing (a dessert) which if it weren’t for my wife it would have been missing altogether from our meal. You ordered a burger well done and instead had the displeasure of feeling as though I was eating through charcoal rather than meat. The fries were a massive disappointment. I ordered mine extra extra crispy and instead got extra soggy (I understand a certain level of sogginess is expected with curb side but it was like a limp noodle) while my wife ate cold fries altogether and chicken tenders that rather resembled chicken jerky that’s been breaded and deep fried. This is not the first time food has been of mediocre quality while paying for “diner” or “steakhouse “ prices. It truly is a sad endeavor when a burger from a fast food joint is of better quality, not to mention cheaper, than the one here. I’m uncertain if I can truly bring myself to make yet another attempt at expecting better food quality. (For the record the customer service before COVID was not terrible by any means and we have tried various items from the menu other than your old fashioned burger and fries and chicken and fries all with less than favorable outcomes). It is rare that I rate an establishment and I am positive that my experience may not be the norm but it has, nevertheless, been mine/my family’s experience. Tbh the food was better before it became the iron horse of chariton but that is only part of the issue...

Seriously, we live in Manhattan, NYC, and we found our lunch date at Charitone better than what we might find for more $$$ at a diner here in town. Our server was there when we needed her, had a great sense of friendly humor and didn’t make us feel like outsiders. We were allowed to take our time eating and chatting. Our table at the bar had a cool view of the street. Small towns are novel to us in some ways and Chariton’s historic courthouse and beautifully manicured courthouse grounds were right there. The food was hot, tasty, satisfying and a good selection of brews was available on tap. Thanks for the mazing experience. We look forward to seeing you all again when we...

Feels like an older hotel situated in the heart of downtown Chariton, Ia. Seated quickly and our server Payton was right on cue getting drink orders. I had the bacon mac and cheese with chicken added and she had the Carolina burger. Everything came out quickly and cooked very well. Mac n cheese sauce was very creamy and chix was nice and tender. Wife's burger was very well presented. I must say they did a great job in the kitchen. Food was extremely delicious and plentiful. Payton was an awesome server taking our order, checking back, and closing our bill. I would love to come back and try a...