The first time I remember being there I was probably 3 or 4 years old, my parents ordered 3 canteens and please cut one in half -- mom ate one, I ate a half and my dad got the other one and a half. When I was in Junior High the canteens were 25 cents each. I remember going there after I was out of high school on dates and the canteens were 50 cents and they were good, I've taken my children and grandchildren there and the last time I was there the canteens were either $3.25 or $3.50 they are big and taste far better than Maid-rites and the pieces of pie are fabulous.

I did tell my husband that back in the late 80's I went to school in ottumwa, Ia an I remember a place in the alley called the canteen. They served the best loose meat sandwiches.. I was shocked to find they are still in business. Next time we are in the vicinity I will stop by.. Dated : 6/05/2011. Thanks..

I Don't see anything great about this place. Hamburger meat is so crumbly it falls out of the bun and is too dry due to overcooking yet buns are greasy. Hotdogs are better for the money. Slices of pie are overpriced. I can't see why it takes 3 to 4 women on a shift to staff that place. The fact that it is a historic landmark is the only thing keeping it going. It's certainly not the food. The bigger fast food chain stores are a better value and have more menu choices.

You have to eat here if you ever go to Ottumwa. It is a little harder to find now that they had to put a parking ramp over it. It is an experience straight out of the 40's with awesome loose meat hamburgers. I always have the cheese rite. They are wonderful!