“Off the Menu” is an Altoona restaurant feature sponsored by Elder Corporation.
If you know a thing or two about Char’s, you know. And if you don’t, it’s time to get familiar!
Charlotte’s Kitchen is flipping the script on what a fast, casual meal can be. Located just off 8th Street in Altoona, this bright and cheerful drive-thru spot is serving up bold flavor combos, crave-worthy sides, and the kind of comfort food that hits the spot when you’re solo snacking, grabbing dinner for the fam, or ordering for the whole office.
Endless Ways to Enjoy Your Chicken
They’ve got crispy or grilled chicken, served any way you like it: as a sandwich, wrap, or salad. You’ll also find weekly featured specials that keep things fresh, so it’s never the same meal twice. (And yes, we recommend asking what’s sizzling this week!)
But don’t let the drive-thru fool you—this isn’t your standard grab-and-go.
Their Crab Rangoon Sandwich is the stuff of local legends. Imagine crunchy chicken, creamy rangoon filling, and sweet chili sauce layered in one perfectly toasted bite. Or try their Nashville Hot, which brings serious heat and a satisfying crunch. And if you’re looking for maximum comfort, order Char’s Bowl. It’s a loaded mac-and-cheese base piled high with crispy chicken, ranch drizzle, and all the fixin’s.
Sides That Steal the Show
Speaking of fixin’s, Charlotte’s signature sides deserve their own spotlight. You should definitely go all-in on the cheese curds, brussels sprouts, and loaded tots! They’re golden, crispy, and made to be devoured.
Sweet Finishes & Shakes to Sip
Wash it all down with one of Charlotte’s hand-spun milkshakes, and you’ve got yourself a full meal that feels like a cheat day (without breaking the bank or your schedule)! Classic vanilla and chocolate are always a win, but we say go bold and ask for the seasonal shake. You never know what new flavor might be in store!
Food Truck Feasts for Events
Charlotte’s Kitchen isn’t just a hit at the drive-thru—they’ve got a food truck that can bring the flavor straight to you. Backyard party? Corporate lunch? Local festival? They’ll roll in ready to serve your favorites hot, fresh, and full of that signature Char’s charm. It’s comfort food on wheels. (And yes, the honey mustard’s coming too!)
Local Flavor, Served Fast
Fast, fresh, and proudly local, Charlotte’s Kitchen has become an Altoona favorite for good reason. Great food, made from scratch, served up with a Grandma-approved smile? That’s the kind of place we love to see here in our community.
Roll through the drive-thru at 109 8th St SE in Altoona and dig into something delicious. Just don’t forget a side of cheese curds!
Thank you to Elder Corporation for sponsoring Off the Menu, the visitor’s guide to Altoona’s deliciously different dining spots! Elder Corporation literally lays the groundwork for some of the biggest excavation projects in Iowa. You can learn more about Elder Corp here.
