In a heartfelt tribute to the fading tradition of Midwestern supper clubs, Michael Knock recounts how a casual dinner outing with friends blossomed into a decade-long celebration of regional culinary culture. What began as a simple meal at The Moracco in Dubuque has evolved into a dedicated group—The Supper Club Supper Club (SCSC)—that continues to honor these unique dining experiences. As many classic supper clubs across Northwest Iowa have shut their doors, Knock expresses both personal nostalgia and cultural concern over the loss of these community staples. More than just places to eat, supper clubs represent shared memories and time-honored rituals. To keep the spirit alive, Knock launched “Supper Club Confidential,” a Substack dedicated to exploring Midwestern food culture through humor and storytelling. Alongside his reflections, he shares recipes for classic supper club ice cream drinks, encouraging readers to recreate the experience at home or seek out surviving supper clubs.
A Decade-Long Ode to Supper Club Culture
In the rolling hills of Dubuque, where supper clubs once dotted the landscape like stars in a night sky, a small group of friends unknowingly began a tradition that would span ten years. It all started when Tom proposed a dinner gathering at The Moracco, a local establishment known for its hearty fare and welcoming ambiance. What followed was not only a series of monthly dinners but also the birth of the Supper Club Supper Club (SCSC), a group devoted to preserving the essence of this vanishing Midwest institution. Over the years, while the frequency of outings may have lessened, the passion for fish fries and golden Cadillac cocktails remained strong. Unfortunately, the broader picture isn’t as bright—several beloved supper clubs, including Cedar Cabin and Tony’s and Mary’s in Iowa, have permanently closed, leaving behind empty buildings and full hearts.
Though the menus of these establishments rarely ventured beyond fried chicken, steak, and shrimp, the meals were always prepared with care and served with warmth. For Knock, those dinners weren’t just about the food—they were milestones marked by family celebrations and shared laughter. Today, while his palate has shifted toward steak and A1 sauce-dipped fries, the sentiment remains the same. His dedication to preserving this cultural touchstone led him to launch a digital chronicle titled “Supper Club Confidential,” where he blends wit with culinary history to celebrate the supper club legacy.
The Sweetness of Supper Club Memories
Beyond the savory entrees and communal tables lies another defining feature of supper clubs—their signature ice cream drinks. These sweet, chilled concoctions are more than desserts; they’re symbols of indulgence and comfort. Whether it's a grasshopper with its mint-chocolate charm or the creamy elegance of a Brandy Alexander, each sip carries the weight of nostalgia. Knock encourages readers to explore these recipes at home, noting that while some tools like a blender help, they aren’t essential. One memorable SCSC evening featured a bartender who hand-mixed every drink, turning cocktail preparation into an impromptu arm workout.
For those seeking a taste of supper club life without the literary dive, he urges a visit to the remaining clubs in the region. And for those content to start closer to home, experimenting with a Golden Cadillac or a grasshopper on a hot summer evening might just transport them back to a simpler, swankier time.