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Where To Eat in Iowa City?
20
items Iowa City has so many great restaurants, and this list is made up of the places I genuinely return to over and over. Each spot stands out to me for a specific reason, whether it’s a dish I always order or a vibe I love. Everything here has earned a s...
Map
Sections
4
Casual Eats
Sit Down Favorites
Coffee & Sweets
Takeout
Casual Eats
Spots I go to when I want something easy, comforting, and consistently good without overthinking it.
This is one of those places I go to when I want a burger that never disappoints. I usually order the same thing because it’s consistently good, and it’s a spot I’ve gone back to many times when I want something simple and satisfying.
Zolly’s Grill
I come here when I’m craving something fresh but filling. The falafel wrap is what I order most, and it’s one of those meals that feels light but still keeps me full.
Oasis Falafel (Iowa City)
I’ve been coming here for years, especially when I want classic comfort food. The mac and cheese is my go-to, and it feels like one of those reliable spots that’s always there when you need it.
Pullman Bar & Diner
This is one of my favorite breakfast spots in town. The pancakes are huge and fluffy, and I love coming here when I want a relaxed, cheerful start to the day.
Bluebird Diner
I usually come here for pizza nights when I want something casual but still really good. The wood-fired crust is what keeps me coming back, and it always feels like a treat without being too fancy.
Maggie's Farm Wood-fired Pizza
I like this place for quieter meals when I don’t want anything complicated. The sandwiches are simple but dependable, and it’s somewhere I’ve stopped into many times over the years.
The Encounter Cafe
Sit Down Favorites
Places I save for slower meals when I want to actually sit, enjoy the food, and take my time.
I go here when I want something seasonal and thoughtfully made. The menu changes often, which keeps it interesting, and it’s a place I associate with slower, more intentional meals.
the Webster
This is one of my picks when I want a nicer dinner without it feeling overwhelming. I usually look at the chef’s specials, and it’s a place I’ve returned to multiple times for the overall experience.
Orchard Green Restaurant and Lounge
A favorite for casual sit-down meals that still feel fun. The food pairs perfectly with their beer, and I keep coming back because the energy is lively without being overwhelming.
Big Grove Brewery & Taproom
I like coming here when I’m in the mood for a lively atmosphere. The food is solid, but the craft beer is what really stands out to me, especially on weekends.
Iowa Chop House
I come here for wood-fired pizza when I want something a little more elevated than a typical pizza night. It’s a spot I enjoy sitting down at and actually taking my time.
Nodo Downtown
I’ve been going here for years, and it’s one of my comfort restaurants. The pasta and pizza always feel familiar in the best way, and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.
Baroncini Ristorante Italiano and Pizza
This is a place I choose when I want something seasonal and a little different. I usually order small plates, and it’s a spot I associate with relaxed evenings that don’t feel rushed.
St. Burch Tavern
I save this one for nights when I want something memorable. The view is the main reason I go, and pairing it with drinks and small plates makes it feel like a special occasion.
Vue Rooftop
Coffee & Sweets
Go-to spots when I want a break in my day, something cozy, or a little treat.
I come here when I want a cozy break in my day. The lattes and pastries are what I usually order, and it’s a place that feels calm and welcoming every time I visit.
Trumpet Blossom Cafe
This is one of my go-to spots for Thai food. I usually order pad thai, and it’s a place I’ve gone back to because the flavors are bold and consistently good.
Blue Elephant Thai Restaurant
I love coming here when I’m craving rich, comforting food. The chicken tikka masala is my usual order, and it’s a place I turn to when I want something warm and satisfying.
Masala Indian Cuisine
Takeout
Reliable places I order from when I want good food at home and don’t feel like cooking.
This is my go-to when I want something comforting at home. The tonkotsu ramen is what I order most, and it’s one of the few places where takeout still feels worth it.
Ramen Belly
I order from here when I want pizza that feels high quality. The margherita pizza is my favorite, and it’s one of those places I trust for a reliable takeout night.
Basta Pizzeria Ristorante
I turn to this place when I’m in the mood for classic Chinese takeout. The General Tso’s chicken is what I usually order, and it’s consistently flavorful every time.
Formosa