Savoring the Flavors of Iowa City: A Guide to the Best Places to Eat

Iowa City is a small Midwestern city with a big appetite. Steeped in history, Iowa City is home to some of the best restaurants in the state. From classic American fare to international delicacies, there is something to please everyone’s palate. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or an adventure in culinary exploration, Iowa City has something for you. Here’s a guide to the best places to eat in Iowa City.

1. The Airliner

The Airliner is a long-time Iowa City favorite. Serving up classic American fare, the Airliner is known for its burgers, sandwiches, and comfort food. The restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Iowa City, and offers a cozy atmosphere in which to enjoy your meal. The Airliner also offers a full bar, so you can enjoy a beer or a glass of wine while you’re dining. With a friendly staff and a menu that’s sure to please, The Airliner is a great choice for a casual evening out.

2. The Sanctuary

The Sanctuary is a farm-to-table restaurant located in the Northside neighborhood of Iowa City. The restaurant specializes in local and seasonal ingredients, and the menu is constantly changing to reflect the freshest ingredients available. The Sanctuary also boasts a full bar, and the bartenders are known for their creative cocktails. The atmosphere at The Sanctuary is warm and inviting, making it a great choice for a date night or a special occasion.

3. La Regia

If you’re looking for something a little more exotic, La Regia is the place to go. This Mexican restaurant is a long-time Iowa City favorite, and it’s easy to see why. La Regia’s menu features a variety of traditional Mexican dishes, from tacos and burritos to enchiladas and fajitas. The restaurant also offers a full bar, and the staff is always friendly and helpful. If you’re in the mood for something a little different, La Regia is the perfect place to go.

4. Blackstone

Blackstone is a contemporary steakhouse located in the heart of downtown Iowa City. The restaurant specializes in steaks and seafood, and the menu is full of inventive dishes. The atmosphere at Blackstone is upscale and sophisticated, making it a great choice for a special occasion. The restaurant also offers a full bar, and the staff is always friendly and attentive.

5. Pullman Bar & Diner

Pullman Bar & Diner is a classic American diner located in the Eastside neighborhood of Iowa City. The restaurant specializes in classic American fare, and the menu features all of your favorite comfort foods. The atmosphere at Pullman is cozy and inviting, and the staff is always friendly and helpful. Pullman also offers a full bar, and the bartenders are known for their creative cocktails.

6. The Red Avocado

The Red Avocado is a vegetarian and vegan restaurant located in the Northside neighborhood of Iowa City. The restaurant specializes in plant-based dishes, and the menu is full of creative and delicious options. The atmosphere at The Red Avocado is warm and inviting, and the staff is always friendly and helpful. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking for something a little different, The Red Avocado is the perfect place to go.

7. Nodo

Nodo is a French-Italian bistro located in the Southside neighborhood of Iowa City. The restaurant specializes in classic French and Italian dishes, and the menu is full of inventive dishes. The atmosphere at Nodo is cozy and romantic, making it a great choice for a date night. The restaurant also offers a full bar, and the bartenders are known for their creative cocktails.

8. Formosa

Formosa is an Asian fusion restaurant located in the Eastside neighborhood of Iowa City. The restaurant specializes in Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisine, and the menu is full of inventive dishes. The atmosphere at Formosa is casual and relaxed, and the staff is always friendly and helpful. Whether you’re in the mood for dim sum or a spicy stir-fry, Formosa is the perfect place to go.

9. Brix Cheese Shop

Brix Cheese Shop is a specialty cheese shop located in the Westside neighborhood of Iowa City. The shop specializes in artisanal cheeses from around the world, and the selection is always changing. The atmosphere at Brix is warm and inviting, and the staff is always friendly and helpful. Whether you’re looking for a specialty cheese for a dinner party or just something different to snack on, Brix Cheese Shop is the perfect place to go.

10. Bread Garden Market

Bread Garden Market is a gourmet market located in the Southside neighborhood of Iowa City. The market specializes in artisanal foods, and the selection is always changing. The atmosphere at Bread Garden Market is warm and inviting, and the staff is always friendly and helpful. Whether you’re looking for a specialty ingredient for a dinner party or just something different to snack on, Bread Garden Market is the perfect place to go.

11. The Pig and the Peacock

The Pig and the Peacock is a farm-to-table restaurant located in the Eastside neighborhood of Iowa City. The restaurant specializes in local and seasonal ingredients, and the menu is constantly changing to reflect the freshest ingredients available. The atmosphere at The Pig and the Peacock is warm and inviting, making it a great choice for a date night or a special occasion. The restaurant also offers a full bar, and the bartenders are known for their creative cocktails.

12. Devotay

Devotay is a tapas restaurant located in the Northside neighborhood of Iowa City. The restaurant specializes in small plates, and the menu is full of inventive dishes. The atmosphere at Devotay is cozy and intimate, making it a great choice for a date night or a special occasion. The restaurant also offers a full bar, and the bartenders are known for their creative cocktails.

No matter what you’re in the mood for, Iowa City has something for you. From classic American fare to international delicacies, Iowa City is a great place to explore and enjoy all the flavors the city has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a casual evening out or a special occasion, the restaurants of Iowa City are sure to please. So come and savor the flavors of Iowa City!

Summary

Iowa City is a small Midwestern city with a big appetite, offering up some of the best restaurants in the state. From classic American fare to international delicacies, there is something to please everyone’s palate. This guide to the best places to eat in Iowa City features twelve unique restaurants, from The Airliner’s classic American fare to The Red Avocado’s plant-based dishes. Whether you’re looking for a casual evening out or a special occasion, the restaurants of Iowa City are sure to please. So come and savor the flavors of Iowa City!