Award-winning host and author Todd Newton heads to downtown Dubuque, Iowa, for a classic American road trip episode you won’t want to miss. Join The Tattooed Traveler as he steps inside Paul’s Tavern—a legendary Dubuque dive bar that’s been serving up cold beer, great conversation, and one of the best cheeseburgers in Iowa since 1948.

Paul’s Tavern isn’t just a bar; it’s a living piece of Dubuque history. Founded by Paul Schollmeyer, a big game hunter whose trophies from the 1950s and ‘60s still line the walls, this spot is often called “Paul’s Big Game Tavern” by locals. The bar’s unique personality shines through its glass-encased taxidermy collection, vintage neon, and the original Norge Broilerator—a rare, antique broiler from the 1940s that’s still used to grill up their famous burgers today. With just five booths and sixteen stools, Paul’s offers an intimate, old-school atmosphere where regulars gather to watch the ballgame, sip on classic beers, and enjoy the same no-nonsense hospitality that’s defined the place for generations.

In this episode, Todd bites into a legendary cheeseburger cooked on the historic Broilerator, chats with locals about the bar’s storied past, and soaks up the authentic Dubuque vibe that makes Paul’s a must-visit for anyone seeking unique things to do in Dubuque, the best burgers in Iowa, or a true American dive bar experience.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a foodie road trip, or just love discovering America’s most memorable bars and eateries, tune in as Chug and Chow uncovers what makes Paul’s Tavern a standout stop on any travel itinerary.