The Som

The Som is a Restaurant in Burlington, IA, located at 863 Jefferson St. It serves the Burlington community with a focus on unique flavors and memorable dining experiences. The establishment is known for its distinctive dishes and quality cocktails, drawing customers who seek food that differs from typical local offerings. The name rhymes with "Tom" or "Mom."

Owner Eric Lee took over the location in 2017, bringing with him nearly 15 years of experience in bartending, serving, cooking, and cleaning from his previous tenure at The Sombrero. He transformed the space, which was previously a downtown dive bar, into an exceptional restaurant that retains the charm of an old tavern. The venue is centered around the experience, offering great food, strong drinks, and familiar faces. Eric Lee’s passion for cooking drives the creation of bold and unique dishes, aiming to bring a level of flavor and creativity to Southeast Iowa that is typically found in larger cities.

The menu is updated frequently, balancing staple items that are always available with seasonal offerings that are rotated out and brought back later. The kitchen keeps the food fun and delicious, introducing exciting dishes that customers can discover every time they visit. The Som maintains a reputation for never disappointing patrons, whether they are there for a date night or hosting out-of-town guests. The atmosphere is described as great, with excellent service and fantastic food that leaves a lasting impression.

The Som continues to push the experience forward, introducing thoughtful cocktails and something new for the community to discover every time they walk through the door. With over two decades dedicated to this space, the restaurant has become a destination in Southeast Iowa for food that cannot be found anywhere else locally. The venue holds onto the small-town feel where everyone knows your name, while providing standout food and quality drinks.

The Som offers unique flavors and a memorable atmosphere in Burlington, IA, making it a standout destination for dining on Jefferson St.

The Som sits on Jefferson St in Burlington, IA, about 0.1 miles from Washington Street and North Central Avenue. Bracewell Stadium is located approximately 0.2 miles away, while Saint Johns School and Apollo Central School are within 0.2 to 0.3 miles.