WILLIAMSBURG, Iowa — Each year Chef Michael Myers and his wife, Tracey, attempt to grow the tallest corn in the state of Iowa, for a contest sponsored by Our Iowa magazine and Edward Jones. Winners receive corn-related items, pork, beef and ethanol – all good prizes, especially if, like this couple, one is running a restaurant.

Outside the restaurant door along the fence line, Tracey pointed out the area where they grow their “cornfield” for the contest. It takes watching to spot the restaurant itself, which is up a driveway and behind a house. Visitors might not realize they were driving past an eating establishment unless they read the crescent orange sign.

The restaurant is located in a converted garage. Upon opening the front door diners enter an area adjacent to the kitchen, separated from the dining area only by a cash register. There are few tables, but most of the time they are filled and, for evenings, reservations or getting there early are recommended.

The walls of Myers Grill are decorated with quotes from customers from all over the United States, with phrases like “Amazing!” “Wonderful!” “Spectacular.” The decor is casual; one reviewer tagged it as “rural hippie eclectic.” While the décor is simple, the food is first-class. Michael is a trained cook and Tracey takes care of the customer business.

“I love the vegetable soup,” Tracey said of her favorite dish. “He uses his leftover prime rib (in it).”

Williamsburg is already known as the home of the outlet mall, the location of Jon Kinzenbaw’s International Harvester collection and being near the historic Amana Colonies, and this restaurant should perhaps be added to the list of notables. Myers Grill & Catering is located at 303 S. Highland Street, Williamsburg, IA 52361, and the phone number is 319-668-2321.