The horseshoe-shaped counter wraps around the freestanding metal steamer. One waitress continually stirs the beef as it cooks in full sight of the patrons. Another waitress cuts the buns and adds the condiments, and another ladles the loose meat onto the buns and wraps them in their signature wax paper. This show is an integral part of the dining experience for the canteen's new and seasoned customers. The price of a "Canteen" is just as modest today as it was during the Depression. A full meal with a piece of pie can still be obtained for less than $5. In 2000, the City of Ottumwa pursued the construction of a downtown parking ramp in the current location of the canteen. Upon offering to purchase the building, or paying for the building to be moved to another location, the owners and patrons alike insisted that it remain in place. Subsequently, in 2004 air rights were purchased above the canteen and a parking ramp was constructed overhead. The Canteen was the model for the Lanford Lunch Box restaurant opened by Roseanne Conner (played by Roseanne Barr) in the sitcom Roseanne. Barr was married to actor Tom Arnold, a native of Ottumwa, and they frequently visited Ottumwa during their marriage. On November 20, 2015, Scott and Janice Pierce became the new owners of the Canteen Lunch in the Alley in Ottumwa, Iowa. See also Maid-Rite Maid-Rite Sandwich Shop (Springfield, Illinois) Tavern sandwich References External links canteenottumwa.com 1927 establishments in Iowa 1936 establishments in Iowa Iowa culture Buildings and structures in Ottumwa, Iowa Restaurants established in 1927 Restaurants established in 1936 Restaurants in Iowa Tourist attractions in Wapello County, Iowa