Fork-tastic Finds: The Best Iowa City Restaurants (According to a Local)

Iowa City is a charming college town filled with incredible food options for every budget and taste. From casual falafel to locally sourced fine dining, these are the best Iowa City restaurants.

Downtown Iowa City, Iowa.Photo byCanva.

If you’re headed to the charming city of Iowa City, Iowa, you’re in for a treat! Not only is the original Iowa capital a UNESCO-designated City of Literature and home to the University of Iowa, but it also boasts a number of delicious local restaurants. Here’s a guide to a few of the best Iowa City restaurants, according to local Christy Weitz, a high school teacher and frequent visitor to area restaurants.

Falafel plate at Oasis Falafel.Photo byChristy Weitz.

Oasis Falafel

Address: 206 N. Linn St, Iowa City, IA 52245
Price Range: $

Located in the historic Northside neighborhood, Oasis Falafel has been a staple of the Iowa City restaurant scene for twenty years. Once you try their hummus, you won’t want to go back to any other brand! They offer traditional pita sandwiches filled with your choice of falafel, chicken shawarma, beef kafta, or grilled vegetables, among other options.

During the summer months, Linn Street in front of Oasis is closed to vehicle traffic and used for outdoor seating. Oasis will pack your food for takeout using a to-go box to enjoy on the outdoor picnic tables.

Sushi rolls at Formosa.Photo byChristy Weitz.

Formosa

Address: 221 E. College St, Iowa City, IA 52240
Price Range: $$-$$$

With many sushi options in Iowa City, Formosa stands out from the rest. The menu features a variety of signature rolls, including the Hawkeye, the Old Capital, the Iowa City, and my favorite, the Plaza Tower roll, consisting of shrimp tempura, cream cheese, cucumber, and spicy tuna, with spicy mayo and mango sauce. Additional menu options include stir fry, pasta, sushi burritos, and poke bowls. Sitting outside on the Ped Mall, people-watching, and eating Formosa sushi is an excellent way to spend a warm summer evening.

Tacos at La Regia Taqueria.Photo byChristy Weitz.

La Regia Taqueria

Address: 436 HWY 1 W, Iowa City, IA 52246
Price Range: $

If you are looking for authentic Mexican street tacos with a diverse array of options and flavors, La Regia Taqueria is the place for you. In an unassuming strip mall on the south side of Iowa City you’ll find a casual and homey eatery that’s a must-visit for taco lovers. In addition to the typical options like chicken, pork, and beef, La Regia offers more adventurous options like chivo (goat), lengua (tongue), tripas (tripe), and buche (pork stomach). If you’re in Iowa City and in need of a taco fix, this place has got you covered.

Big Grove Brewery and Taproom in Iowa City, Iowa.Photo byChristy Weitz.

Big Grove Brewery and Taproom

Location: 1225 S. Gilbert St, Iowa City, IA 52240
Price Range: $$-$$$

Big Grove Brewery and Taproom opened in 2017 and was an immediate hit in Iowa City. It’s one of the largest restaurants in the area, with a full brewery and an enormous patio. With tons of outdoor tables, delicious beer brewed right on site, and a full menu of mouthwatering options, Big Grove is one of the best places in Iowa City to hang out at on a beautiful day.

The menu is an eclectic mix of cuisines including a poke bowl, chicken karaage bao buns, and brewpub favorites like fondue fries, chicken wings, and delicious burgers. Vegetarian options include the spicy fried tofu sandwich and crispy cauliflower in wing sauce. With its diverse menu, there’s something for everyone!

Pagliai's Pizza.Photo byChristy Weitz.

Pagliai's Pizza

Address: 302 E. Bloomington St., Iowa City, IA 52245
Price: $$

Pagliai’s Pizza is an Iowa City tradition, first opening its doors in 1957. As you approach the front door, you’ll notice the employees through the front window, decked out in classic white paper hats, busily constructing the perfect pizzas.

The menu boasts fresh ingredients, with the option to customize your own pizza or savor one of two house specialties — the Veggie Special or the Palace Special. No matter what you choose, you’ll keep coming back for more of this delicious thin crust pizza. There is a gluten-free crust option available for an additional fee.

Sage Advice: The "g" in Pagliai’s is silent. It’s pronounced Pah-lee-eyes. Pronouncing it with a hard "g" sound is an easy way to stand out in Iowa City!

The Webster.Photo byChristy Weitz.

The Webster

Location: 202 N. Linn St, Iowa City, IA 52245
Price: $$$$

If you’re looking for a place to dine out for a special occasion, the Webster is an excellent option. A newcomer to the Iowa City restaurant scene, opening in 2021, the Webster has already made a name for itself. It was named one of the 50 Best Restaurants in America by the New York Times in 2023. The menu reflects the location here in the Midwest and changes seasonally, depending on what is available locally. Be sure to reserve a spot ahead of time as it’s a popular restaurant and they’re open only for dinner service, Tuesday through Saturday.

Iowa City is a bustling city full of youthful energy and excitement. It boasts a diverse array of restaurants, from casual to elegant. You’re certain to enjoy delicious meals in one of these locally-owned restaurants in this thriving college town.

Read the full article at Everyday Wanderer which includes additional recommendations.