Published January 17, 2025
Local Restaurant Spotlight: Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant – A Gluten-Free Haven in Clive, Iowa
When it comes to combining exceptional food, world-class wine, and a warm, inviting atmosphere, Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant in Clive, Iowa, stands out as a true gem. As someone with Celiac Disease, finding local restaurants that are truly safe can be a challenge. For those seeking a gluten-free dining experience, this destination is a standout, offering a wide variety of options that don’t compromise on flavor or quality.
The Concept Behind Cooper’s Hawk
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant is more than just a place to dine; it’s an experience. The concept blends the art of winemaking with upscale dining, offering a menu carefully curated to complement their handcrafted wines. Founded on the vision of making wine accessible and enjoyable for everyone, Cooper's Hawk has grown into a beloved brand with locations across the country, but each restaurant maintains a unique connection to its local community.
The Clive Location: Ambiance and Atmosphere
Situated in the heart of Clive, Iowa, Cooper’s Hawk boasts a modern yet welcoming design. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by the elegant wine-tasting room, where guests can sample an array of wines before moving on to their dining experience. The restaurant’s interior blends contemporary elements with rustic touches, creating a cozy yet refined environment perfect for everything from date nights to family celebrations.
A Gluten-Free Friendly Menu
For those with gluten sensitivities or preferences, dining out can often feel restrictive. At Cooper’s Hawk, however, gluten-free diners are treated to a wide selection of thoughtfully prepared dishes that never feel like an afterthought. The restaurant’s dedicated gluten-free menu includes:
- Asian Pork Belly Tostadas (served on gluten-free crisps)
- Lobster & Crab Bisque (a rich and creamy soup without gluten additives)
- Cedar-Planked Salmon (perfectly roasted and accompanied by seasonal sides)
- Dana's Parmesan-Crusted Chicken (offered with gluten-free adjustments for a flavorful twist)
- Flourless Chocolate Torte (a decadent dessert option to satisfy your sweet tooth)
Each dish is carefully crafted to ensure it meets gluten-free standards without compromising taste or presentation. The kitchen staff takes extra care to avoid cross-contamination, providing peace of mind to guests with dietary restrictions. Our table of four decided to start with the Asian Ahi Tuna Sashimi appetizer. Little did we know we should have ordered two! The tuna is served raw, with a ponzu-ginger vinaigrette, avocado, radish, wasabi cream and sriracha. The perfect little kick! It was simply delicious. Not to mention the beautiful presentation! For my main course, I ordered the Filet Mignon. This 8-ounce filet was cooked to perfection (medium-rare for me). The steak butter was phenomenal. The steak comes with grilled broccoli and one other choice of side, but my server had no problem swapping out the greens for two sides of the Wasabi-Buttered Mashed Potatoes when asked. Yum! If you’re a steak-and-potatoes kind of guy or gal (like me), you cannot go wrong with this option!
Wine Pairings for Every Meal
No dining experience at Cooper’s Hawk is complete without exploring their extensive wine collection. The restaurant offers a pairing guide to help diners find the perfect wine to complement their meal. From crisp whites to bold reds, every sip enhances the flavors of their carefully curated dishes. Our table started with a flight, so we could taste a few options before ordering our choice – choices for me). This was the most difficult part of the evening for me. So many delicious options! Our server was exceptional at describing the flavors and was very patient with us as we worked through the extensive 2-page wine menu. Once we finished our meal, we spent some time in the wine shop on our way out. We just had to take some of their wine home with us!
The Wine Club: A Unique Offering
One of the highlights of Cooper’s Hawk is its Wine Club, a membership program that allows wine lovers to enjoy exclusive benefits. Members receive monthly bottles of wine, invitations to private events, and special discounts. It’s a fantastic way to explore new varietals and deepen your appreciation for winemaking—and yes, many of the wines are naturally gluten-free, ensuring that everyone can join in on the experience.
Exceptional Service
What truly sets Cooper’s Hawk apart is its dedication to exceptional service. The staff is knowledgeable, attentive, and passionate about creating memorable experiences for every guest. Gluten-free guests and all other diners alike can feel confident asking questions and making requests, knowing that the team is committed to accommodating their needs.
A Must-Visit Destination in Clive
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant in Clive offers more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor, community, and the art of winemaking. It’s a haven where delicious food and thoughtful accommodations come together seamlessly. Whether you’re stopping by for a wine tasting, a casual lunch, or an elegant dinner, you’re sure to leave with a full heart and a satisfied palate. They also have a “Brunch & Bubbles menu, as well as options for the little humans we may bring with us. Make a reservation today and discover why Cooper’s Hawk is the perfect destination for any of your dining desires in Clive! I know we will be back!
