7 Unforgettable Reasons Borderline Pizza And Taco Jerry's Is Iowa's Ultimate Fusion Destination (2025 Update)

Step inside Borderline Pizza and Taco Jerry's, and you are immediately transported to a culinary crossroads unlike any other in the Midwest. Located in the heart of Forest City, Iowa, this unassuming establishment has become a legendary dining spot, celebrated for its audacious yet perfect fusion of two beloved cuisines: classic American thick-crust pizza and vibrant Tex-Mex fare. As of the current date in December 2025, the restaurant continues to thrive, maintaining its status as a must-visit gem on US-69, drawing locals and travelers alike with its famous Taco Pizza and fiercely loyal community spirit.

This deep-dive exploration will uncover the unique history, the dedicated owners, and the signature dishes that have cemented Borderline Pizza and Taco Jerry's—often referred to simply as "Taco Jerry's"—as a true Iowa institution. It's a place where the debate over whether to order a slice of pepperoni or a hard-shell taco is the hardest decision you'll have to make all day.

The Culinary Architects: Owners Dale and Ashley White

The success and enduring charm of Borderline Pizza and Taco Jerry's are intrinsically tied to the dedication of its current owners, Dale and Ashley White. This dynamic duo took the reins of the business in 2006, acquiring it from the original owners who were ready to retire. Since then, the Whites have meticulously maintained the unique dual-concept that has defined the restaurant for decades, while injecting their own family-friendly atmosphere and commitment to quality.

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• Names: Dale White and Ashley White
• Role: Current Owners and Operators
• Acquisition Date: 2006 (took over from original retiring owners)
• Location: 1145 US-69, Forest City, Iowa, 50436
• Geographic Region: Winnebago County, North Central Iowa
• Core Philosophy: Maintaining the original, beloved fusion concept while fostering a welcoming, community-focused environment.

Their hands-on approach ensures that the "Best Pizza Anywhere" slogan, which adorns their website, is a promise they strive to keep with every stone-baked crust and every perfectly seasoned taco filling. The Whites are well-known to the residents of Winnebago County, embodying the spirit of local entrepreneurship and culinary excellence.

7 Reasons Borderline Pizza and Taco Jerry's is an Iowa Legend

The Borderline experience is more than just a meal; it's a cultural staple of the North Iowa food scene. Here are the seven compelling reasons this establishment continues to earn rave reviews and a loyal following, with menu updates current for 2025.

1. The Legendary Taco Pizza: A Midwest Icon

No discussion of Borderline Pizza is complete without starting with their most famous creation: the Taco Pizza. This dish is a perfect manifestation of the restaurant's fusion concept. It takes their signature thick-crust pizza base, applies a special sauce, and loads it with seasoned taco meat, a blend of cheeses, and then tops it with a fresh, crisp layer of lettuce, tomatoes, and crushed chips—often served with sour cream and salsa on the side. Customers frequently call it the "best taco pizza I've ever had" in Iowa, a testament to its perfect balance of pizza comfort and Tex-Mex zing.

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2. The Audacious Pizza and Tex-Mex Fusion

What truly sets Borderline apart is its seamless integration of two distinct menus. It’s not a compromise; it’s a celebration of both. The kitchen excels at both the Italian-American classic and the vibrant Mexican fare. The menu entities are plentiful, ranging from classic pepperoni and specialty pizzas (like the Taco Pizza) to a full line of Mexican favorites including Hard Tacos, Baby Soft Tacos, Burritos, and the massive Taco Salad. This "borderline" approach ensures that everyone in a family or group finds something they love.

3. The Must-Try Super Nachos

Beyond the pizza, the Mexican side of the menu, Taco Jerry's, boasts its own showstopper: the Super Nachos. This dish is often highlighted in reviews as an "explosion of flavors." It features a generous base of tortilla chips piled high with melted cheese, seasoned beef, and an array of fresh toppings. It’s the ideal appetizer for sharing or a hearty meal for one, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to generous portions and robust flavor profiles.

4. Commitment to Traditional Cooking Techniques

Despite the eclectic menu, the quality of the food is rooted in traditional, reliable cooking methods. The pizzas, for example, are known for their perfectly crispy crusts, a result of expert stone-baking techniques. This attention to detail elevates the simple ingredients, ensuring that even a basic cheese pizza is a memorable experience. The commitment to traditional methods for both the pizza and the Tex-Mex dishes is a cornerstone of their long-running success.

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5. The Eclectic and Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Borderline Pizza and Taco Jerry's is often described as a charming "hole-in-the-wall" with an "eclectic and fun" atmosphere. It's a place where the community gathers. The interior is known for being relaxing and very family friendly, a perfect spot for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Adding to the fun, some visitors have noted the presence of entertainment like pinball machines, reinforcing its classic, welcoming diner vibe.

6. Exceptional Customer Ratings and Loyalty

The restaurant consistently receives stellar customer feedback, with recent ratings hovering between 4.7 and 4.8 out of 5 stars across major review platforms. These high marks are a direct reflection of the quality of the food (rated 4.7 for food) and the welcoming atmosphere (rated 4.6). The reviews highlight the delicious thick crust pizza, the flavorful tacos, and the kindness of the staff, proving that local loyalty remains strong as they head into 2025.

7. A True Roadside Gem on Highway 69

Situated right off US-69, Borderline Pizza and Taco Jerry's is strategically located in Forest City, making it an essential stop for anyone traveling through North Central Iowa. Its location is not just convenient; it contributes to its identity as a classic roadside diner destination. For those seeking authentic, hearty, and unique Midwest cuisine, the drive to 1145 US-69 is always worth the trip. The current hours are Monday through Saturday, 11 AM to 9 PM, ensuring plenty of time to stop for lunch or dinner.

Topical Authority and Key Entities to Know

To fully appreciate the culinary landscape of Borderline Pizza and Taco Jerry's, it helps to understand the key entities and concepts that contribute to its unique identity. The restaurant's longevity and success are built on a foundation of local ingredients, culinary consistency, and a deep understanding of its customer base in Winnebago County. The blend of Tex-Mex influences with classic American pizza distinguishes it from typical local eateries.

The menu is rich with specific entities that contribute to its topical authority:

• Culinary Style: Pizza and Tex-Mex Fusion
• Signature Pizza: Taco Pizza (The most famous dish)
• Signature Mexican Dish: Super Nachos
• Pizza Technique: Stone-Baking (for crispy crusts)
• Mexican Offerings: Hard Taco, Baby Soft Taco, Burrito, Taco Salad
• Key Ingredients: Seasoned Taco Meat, Thick Crust Dough, Melted Cheese, Fresh Lettuce and Tomato
• Atmosphere: Eclectic, Family Friendly, Hole-in-the-Wall
• Entertainment: Pinball (mentioned in visitor reviews)
• Location Marker: US-69 Highway
• Community: Forest City, Iowa; Winnebago County

Whether you're a local craving the familiar comfort of a thick crust pizza or a traveler looking for an authentic and memorable Iowa food scene experience, Dale and Ashley White's Borderline Pizza and Taco Jerry's remains a beacon of delicious, dual-concept dining, promising a meal that is consistently fresh, flavorful, and filling, well into 2025.