The Skean Block has been a fixture on Albia’s square since the early 1900’s and has been serving food and libations for the last ten years.  On January 1, 2008, Tim Holmes, a successful restaurant entrepreneur from Des Moines, became the new owner and has kicked up the cuisine and fun a notch.  “You don’t have to dress up or spend any more money than you would in a fast food restaurant to have a good time at my place.  Whether you want a great pizza and beer or quality hand-cut steak with a fine glass of wine, you can find it here”, says Tim.

A local business man, Robert Bates, desiring The Skean Block to become a dining establishment, put together a foundation to provide funding of the building's remodel into that restaurant for Albia citizens.  Holmes leases the property from the foundation and has expanded the dining venue to be much more casual and reasonable than in the past.

Now, The Skean Block menu has something for everyone.  "Louie’s At The Block" bar was created to serve appetizers, sandwiches and pizza for the after work crowd.  Redecorated in an upscale 1960’s Vegas theme, the bar features homemade margaritas, spicy bloody marys, mojitos, wine and $2 drafts.  The summer outdoor patio features an outdoor grill, live music and dinner specials.  A comfortable old world dining room completes the picture by offering a full menu at reasonable prices. Elegant banquet rooms are available for special occasions.

Tim makes it his business to be sure everyone is satisfied with their experience at the Skean Block.  Chef Scott Spinler, an Albia native, and Holmes combine their talents to provide unique nightly specials.  Holmes and Spinler’s fathers were butchers and they understand what prime cuts of meat mean to your dining experience. The slow cooked prime rib is Spinler’s signature dish.  The smoked ribs cooked on the patio are Holmes own creation.  Other menu items include aged Angus steaks and burgers, artisan pizzas baked in a stone oven for a crispy thin crust, hand-breaded tenderloins, specialty salads with homemade dressings, savory pastas and rich appetizers all guaranteed to please anyone’s pallet. Before coming to the Skean Block, Holmes opened three successful restaurants in Des Moines and one in Pella all which still serve many of his dishes today.  For additional information please contact Tim Holmes or visit www.attheblock.com.About The Skean Block:

The Skean Block restaurant is located on the north side of the square in Albia, Iowa.  The casual atmosphere along with reasonably priced drinks and excellent food choices include steaks, sandwiches, pizzas, pasta and signature salads allowing patrons to relax after work or anytime.  The restaurant has banquet rooms for custom parties and catering is available.

Open for dinner Wednesday through Saturday from 5 to 9 p.m. with lunches being served Wednesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.