About

In the early 1850’s Grandpa Peter Kalmes started the bar business in the Luxembourg village of St. Donatus, Iowa. The original location was across the street in the pink stucco house just kitty-corner from us now.

Kalmes Restaurant & Catering | Kalmes Family - Theodore & Stella Kalmes

In 1933, Theodore and Stella Kalmes purchased the property and built a small bar and gas station. In 1942, they added a grocery store and living quarters.Kalmes Restaurant & Catering | Kalmes Family Service Station in 1930's

Kalmes Restaurant & Catering | Kalmes Family - Theodore & Stella Kalmes w/ Young Windy Kalmes in TrainingWindy and Helen Kalmes bought the business in 1956, opened the dining room in 1982 and remodeled in 1988. More growth in 1995 when the Luxembourg Dining Room was added and the original dining room was expanded upon. Both dining areas were decorated using vintage photographs of Luxembourg and families living in the St. Donatus area who originated from Luxembourg. A must see!

The fourth generation in the business includes sons Jim (wife Lori), Brian (wife Barb), and our daughter Jodi (husband Willie). The fifth generation, Jimmy Jr. is heading up our Catering Department.

Our family has served the Luxembourg Village of St. Donatus for over 160 years! Your business is appreciated and we will do our best to please you!Kalmes Restaurant & Catering | Kalmes Family 5th Generation (2006)

Five Generations! 1850 to Present!


Kalmes Restaurant & Catering has been featured on Alton Brown’s national television series “Feasting on Asphalt” on Food Network.
Check out the full episode and view our segment (28:20 – 32:12)!


Kalmes Restaurant Catering featured on Official Food Network Website / Featured on Feasting on Asphalt w/ Alton BrownKalmes Restaurant & Catering is proudly featured on Food Network’s website! Check it out!


Kalmes Restaurant & Catering of St. Donatus Iowa has been featured on NPR | National Public RadioKalmes Restaurant & Catering has also been featured in an article by NPR | National Public Radio.


Kalmes Restaurant & Catering received Iowa Restaurant Association Champion of the Year Award in 2012Kalmes Restaurant & Catering is proud recipient of 2012 Champion of the Year Award in 2012

  • Iowa Restaurant Association Champion of the Year Award | Windy Kalmes


Kalmes Restaurant Catering featured on WQAD Channel 8 of Quad CitiesKalmes Restaurant & Catering was highlighted in May 2013 on WQAD, Channel 8 of the Quad Cities.