KDSN RADIO News
Hometown Heroes Named Home of 2025 Iowa’s Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin
The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) has crowned Hometown Heroes of Grinnell as the winner of the 2025 Iowa’s Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin Contest. Located at 908 Main Street in downtown Grinnell, Iowa, this sports-grill-style restaurant is a gathering spot for community, good food, and local pride. Owner and executive chef Paul Durr said the recognition is both humbling and exciting for his team. Opened in 2019 and owned by Paul and Kalyn Durr, along with partners Shannon and Todd Reding, Hometown Heroes blends comfort food with hometown spirit. Paul serves as executive chef and director of operations, with Kalyn overseeing marketing. Alex Phillips is the general manager handling day-to-day operations. The restaurant is part of the Prairie Hospitality Group, which also owns Prairie Canary, a farm-to-table establishment in Grinnell. More than just a place to eat, Hometown Heroes is designed with the local community in mind. Inside, one wall is dedicated to athletes from nearby high schools and colleges who now represent the region on bigger stages. Other walls pay tribute to first responders, military service members, and those who have served the community in various “hero” roles. The restaurant is casual and energetic with a menu that leans toward bar/family comfort food: wings, burgers, sandwiches, and of course, the now celebrated pork tenderloin. The Iowa Pork Producers Association is thrilled to officially present the coveted Iowa’s Best Tenderloin Award for 2025 at Hometown Heroes today (Friday) at noon! They will take home a $500 cash prize, a plaque, and a banner to showcase their achievement. The 2025 runner-up is The 1854 in Gilbertville, Iowa. They’ll receive a $250 prize along with a plaque from the IPPA. Dairy Sweet in Dunlap was the 2024 winner, making it the first restaurant to win the title twice.
