Iowa City, a vibrant college town in eastern Iowa, is a haven for foodies and students alike. With its rich cultural heritage and diverse community, the city offers a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From classic American comfort food to international cuisine, Iowa City’s culinary scene is a reflection of its eclectic charm.
Get ultimate traveler plannerWhere To Eat In Iowa City
In this overview, we’ll take you on a culinary tour of Iowa City, highlighting the best places to eat, drink, and indulge in the city’s gastronomic delights. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this guide will help you navigate the city’s food scene and discover the hidden gems that make Iowa City a food lover’s paradise.
Best Restaurants in Iowa City
Iowa City is home to a diverse range of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. Some of the top-rated restaurants in the city include:
- The Iowa City Brewing Company, known for its craft beers and delicious pub fare
- The Hamburg Inn No. 2, a local institution serving up classic American comfort food
- Devotay, a contemporary American bistro with a focus on seasonal ingredients
- Thai Sweet Basil, a popular spot for authentic Thai cuisine
Foodie Favorites
Iowa City is also home to a number of specialty food shops and markets, offering everything from artisanal cheeses to gourmet chocolates. Some of the city’s top foodie favorites include:
- The Iowa City Farmers’ Market, held every Saturday morning during the warmer months
- The Bread Garden Market, a local favorite for fresh bread and pastries
- The Iowa City Chocolate Company, offering handcrafted chocolates and treats
Best Coffee Shops in Iowa City
Iowa City is a city that runs on coffee, and there are plenty of excellent coffee shops to choose from. Some of the top-rated coffee shops in the city include:
- The Java House, a local favorite for its expertly brewed coffee and cozy atmosphere
- The Coffee Cup, a popular spot for coffee and breakfast
- The Iowa City Coffee Company, offering a variety of specialty coffee drinks and snacks
Whether you’re a foodie, a coffee connoisseur, or just looking for a new dining experience, Iowa City has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the city’s best restaurants, foodie favorites, and coffee shops. So grab a fork and join us as we explore the best of Iowa City’s food scene! (See Also: Where To Eat In Tribeca)
Where to Eat in Iowa City: A Foodie’s Guide
Iowa City, a vibrant college town in eastern Iowa, is known for its rich cultural scene, beautiful parks, and eclectic dining options. With a diverse range of cuisines to choose from, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to eat in Iowa City, from classic American comfort food to international flavors and everything in between.
Breakfast and Brunch
Iowa City is a great place to start your day with a delicious breakfast or brunch. Here are some top recommendations:
- Maison: This French-inspired bakery and café serves up mouthwatering pastries, quiche, and sandwiches. Try their famous croissants and coffee.
- The Breakfast Club: This popular breakfast spot offers a wide range of options, from omelets to waffles, and even breakfast tacos.
- The Java House: This cozy coffee shop serves up expertly brewed coffee and delicious breakfast sandwiches.
Lunch and Dinner
When it comes to lunch and dinner, Iowa City has plenty of options to choose from. Here are some top recommendations:
- The Iowa City Public Library’s Café: This charming café is located inside the Iowa City Public Library and serves up delicious sandwiches, salads, and soups.
- The Hamburg: This casual burger joint serves up juicy burgers, crispy fries, and delicious milkshakes.
- The Red Aviator Café: This eclectic café serves up a wide range of international dishes, from Korean BBQ to Mexican tacos.
International Cuisine
Iowa City is home to a diverse range of international cuisines, from Asian to Latin American. Here are some top recommendations:
- Szechuan Chinese Restaurant: This family-owned Chinese restaurant serves up authentic Szechuan dishes, including spicy Kung Pao chicken and savory beef noodle soup.
- Mexican Restaurant La Taqueria: This casual Mexican restaurant serves up delicious tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, as well as a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options.
- Thai House: This cozy Thai restaurant serves up authentic dishes, including pad thai, green curry, and spicy tom yum soup.
Dessert
No meal is complete without a sweet treat. Here are some top dessert spots in Iowa City:
- The Iowa City Ice Cream Company: This artisanal ice cream shop serves up unique flavors, such as honey lavender and strawberry balsamic.
- The Cupcake Factory: This bakery serves up delicious cupcakes in a wide range of flavors, from classic vanilla to decadent chocolate.
- Chocolaterie: This French-inspired chocolatier serves up handcrafted chocolates, truffles, and other sweet treats.
Food Trucks
Iowa City is also home to a number of food trucks that offer everything from tacos to BBQ to gourmet grilled cheese. Here are some top food trucks to check out: (See Also: Where To Eat In Knoxville Tn)
- The Taco Truck: This popular food truck serves up delicious tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, as well as a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options.
- Smoke & Fire: This BBQ food truck serves up slow-cooked meats, including ribs, brisket, and pulled pork.
- The Grilled Cheese Truck: This gourmet grilled cheese food truck serves up creative sandwiches, such as brie and fig jam or prosciutto and arugula.
Recap
Iowa City is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of cuisines and dining options to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for classic American comfort food or international flavors, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant college town. From breakfast and brunch to lunch and dinner, and even dessert and food trucks, Iowa City is the perfect place to satisfy your cravings. So why not come and taste the difference for yourself?
Restaurant | Cuisine | Price Range |
---|---|---|
Maison | French-inspired | $10-$20 |
The Breakfast Club | Breakfast and brunch | $5-$15 |
The Java House | Coffee and sandwiches | $5-$10 |
The Iowa City Public Library’s Café | International | $10-$20 |
The Hamburg | American comfort food | $10-$20 |
The Red Aviator Café | International | $10-$25 |
Szechuan Chinese Restaurant | Chinese | $10-$20 |
Mexican Restaurant La Taqueria | Mexican | $10-$20 |
Thai House | Thai | $10-$20 |
The Iowa City Ice Cream Company | Dessert | $5-$10 |
The Cupcake Factory | Dessert | $5-$10 |
Chocolaterie | Dessert | $10-$20 |
The Taco Truck | Mexican | $5-$10 |
Smoke & Fire | BBQ | $10-$20 |
The Grilled Cheese Truck | Gourmet grilled cheese | $5-$10 |
Here are five FAQs related to “Where To Eat In Iowa City”:
Where To Eat In Iowa City FAQs
What are some popular restaurants in Iowa City?
Iowa City is known for its vibrant food scene, with a variety of options to suit every taste and budget. Some popular restaurants include the Iowa City Brewing Company, which serves up delicious pub fare and craft beer, and the Hamburg Inn, a local institution that’s been serving up classic American comfort food since 1935. For a taste of international cuisine, try the Thai House or the Szechuan Chinese Restaurant.
Are there any good places to eat near the University of Iowa campus?
Yes, there are many great places to eat within walking distance of the University of Iowa campus. The Ped Mall, a pedestrian shopping and dining area, is a popular spot for students and locals alike. You’ll find everything from coffee shops to sandwich shops to ethnic restaurants. The nearby Iowa Avenue is also home to a number of popular eateries, including the Iowa City Press Citizen and the Hamburg Inn.
Can I find healthy options in Iowa City?
Yes, Iowa City has a number of healthy dining options to choose from. The Iowa City Farmers Market, which takes place every Saturday morning during the warmer months, features a variety of local produce, meats, and baked goods. For a quick and easy healthy meal, try the Salad Studio or the Fresh Fusion Cafe, both of which offer a variety of salads and sandwiches made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. (See Also: Where To Eat In Monterey Bay)
Are there any restaurants that are open late in Iowa City?
Yes, there are several restaurants in Iowa City that are open late, making them a great option for late-night cravings. The Iowa City Brewing Company is open until 11pm on weekends, and the Hamburg Inn is open until 10pm. For a late-night snack or meal, try the 24-hour convenience store, the Kum & Go, which offers a variety of snacks and drinks.
Can I find vegetarian and vegan options in Iowa City?
Yes, Iowa City has a number of vegetarian and vegan options to choose from. The Iowa City Farmers Market features a variety of local produce and baked goods that are vegetarian and vegan-friendly. For a sit-down meal, try the Fresh Fusion Cafe, which offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including salads, sandwiches, and entrees. The Salad Studio also offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including salads and wraps.