When the going gets tough, the tough go bowling—and when bowlers get hungry, they flock to Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill to fill up on a great selection of family favorites. Appetizers, sandwiches, salads, burgers, and more are served up in this fun, casual gathering place with an atmosphere like no other. The rustic nautical-themed restaurant and bar offer the perspective of an underwater high-seas adventure amidst a backdrop of sunken ships and live tropical fish. Tasty fun for the whole family, Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill is where "the outdoors meets the indoors for the ultimate sportsman!" Located inside select Bass Pro Shops® retail stores.
Customer experiences with service were mixed, with some praising friendly staff while others reported poor service and long wait times.
Food Quality
Food quality received varied feedback; some enjoyed the dishes while others found them overpriced and lacking flavor.
Atmosphere
The unique ocean-themed atmosphere was appreciated by many, but cleanliness and maintenance issues were noted.
Pricing
Many customers felt the prices were high for the quality of food and service received.
Family-Friendly
The venue is seen as a fun place for families, with bowling and arcade games, although some noted it can be noisy.
MC
Megan Cahalan
Nov 2, 2025
3.0
This is our 3rd time coming to this restaurant. It is very pricey - $75 for two people. We each got an entree and shared an appetizer. The environment is really fun, which I enjoy. However, this time the food was not great for the price. My chicken in my linguine had grissle every other bite. My husband had the fish and chips. His tartar sauce was very liquidy. It almost tasted like tartar sauce mixed with water and ranch. He couldn't finish it. If the prices weren't so high, it wouldn't be as bad. We'll probably give it another try eventually.
MM
Morae Metcalf
Oct 11, 2025
5.0
Had a great time with the kids bowling and playing arcade games. Staff was very helpful and accommodating.
GN
Gina Narro
Sep 28, 2025
5.0
Always a fun place. Good food, good drinks and a friendly staff.
CD
Cheryl Dale
Sep 20, 2025
5.0
Stopped for a quick overnight in our RV in parking lot and it was great the restaurant was here. Food was very good and waitress very friendly. Will definately stop here again and recommend it. Had fish and shrimp was very good.
JJ
Jon
Sep 7, 2025
1.0
Went bowling sept 6 had a great time but $9.63for a drink wow.ok don't mine the price because of fun but thats alittle steep for diet coke and vodka...the bartender was never at the bar took for ever just to get a drink for 1 person my girlfriend wasnt drinking.1 guy was looking in the back and all over for her.The young gal in the front was very nice and willing to help when she wanted an ice water....poor service from the bartender.
Frequently Asked Questions About Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill
What type of restaurant is Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill?
Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill is a family-friendly American seafood restaurant and bar with a rustic nautical theme located inside Bass Pro Shops in Altoona, IA.
What are the opening hours of Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill?
The restaurant is open Monday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM and on Sundays from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Where is Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill located?
It is located at 1000 Bass Pro Dr NW, Altoona, IA 50009, inside Bass Pro Shops retail store.
What kind of atmosphere can I expect at Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill?
The restaurant offers a fun, casual atmosphere with a nautical underwater high-seas adventure theme featuring sunken ships and live tropical fish.
Can you provide the phone number to contact Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill?
Yes, the phone number is +1 515-957-5400.
Is Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill located near other shopping or dining options?
Yes, it is near various retail stores such as Sunglass Hut, Saucony, Bath & Body Works, Eddie Bauer Outlet, and dining options like Charleys Cheesesteaks and Auntie Anne's.
How can I plan a visit to Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill with outdoor shopping at Bass Pro Shops?
Since Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill is located inside Bass Pro Shops, you can enjoy outdoor gear shopping and immediately relax with a meal in their themed restaurant, combining shopping and dining conveniently.
What stores are nearby that offer clothing and footwear around Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill?
Nearby clothing and footwear stores include Saucony, Eddie Bauer Outlet, Aéropostale, Famous Footwear Outlet, Forever 21, Journeys, American Eagle, Levi’s Outlet Store, Maurices, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, SKECHERS Factory Outlet, OshKosh B’gosh, and Carter's.
Are there any family-friendly nearby stores or entertainment options near Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill?
Yes, the Outlets of Des Moines shopping center is close by, featuring many retail outlets and toys stores like Toys"R"Us, offering family-friendly shopping options after dining.
Is Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill accessible using local transportation routes like Highway 65?
Yes, the location is accessible near Highway 65, making it convenient for customers traveling by car to reach the restaurant and nearby outlets.