A Belmond restaurant that’s been under current ownership for less than a year is the 2015 winner of the Iowa Pork Producers Association’s Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin contest. Joe and Jewel McFarland opened the Belmond Drive-in on Oct. 22, 2014, after both worked as cooks in various establishments for more than 20 years.

Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin in IA 2015 winner: Belmond Drive In.

The winning tenderloin is a center cut pork loin that Joe sources from a local meat locker. He hand trims and cuts the loins fresh daily. The tenderloin is dipped in an egg wash and then hand breaded with a medium size breadcrumb. The McFarlands currently sell 20 to 30 breaded pork tenderloins a day. The drive-in is open each day, except Tuesday.

The IPPA Restaurant and Foodservice Committee is presenting the McFarlands with a check for $500, a plaque and a large banner in ceremonies at the restaurant today. The Belmond Drive-in also will receive statewide publicity for winning IPPA’s 13th annual contest.

Three C’s Diner in Corning placed second in this year’s contest and will receive $250 and a plaque. Rounding out the top five finalists was the Recovery Room in Ottumwa, the Peru Bar & Grill in Peru and The Office in Lenox. Those restaurants will receive a plaque to display in their restaurant.

Tenderloin lovers submitted 1,161 nominations and nearly 40 tenderloin sandwiches were judged this summer on the quality of the pork, taste, physical characteristics and eating experience. The contest recognizes Iowa dining establishments that support the swine industry by putting pork on their menu. All restaurants, cafes and taverns that serve breaded pork tenderloin sandwiches year round and list them on their daily menu can be nominated for the award.

(IPPA Press Release)