Being almost a junior in college, I think I have tried just about every place in Iowa City.
The town has so much to offer, and I promise it is not just bars that serve $1 pitchers every Tuesday and Thursday. There is something about the warm weather that makes me want to go out to eat with a group of friends.
Whether its enjoying food on a patio or just plain good food, here are my personal top 8 places:
1. Bo James- By far has the best burgers. I know many may argue Shorts is the top choice, but you can't beat $6.99 burger baskets on weekdays while you enjoy people watching on the outdoor patio.
2. Hamburg Inn- They may only have about 6 tables, but its worth the wait for good breakfast. They are affordable for the whole family and its a great place to walk to during the beautiful weather.
3. Basta- Being from Chicago and my Italian background, I have tried numerous Italian restaurants in my lifetime. Nothing is better than one of their flatbread pizzas and a glass of wine, while dinning outside.
4. Mondos- I will cheat a little because this place technically not in Iowa City and is closer to Coralville, but they have so many options and great food and a large outdoor seating area.
5. Bread Garden- Although this isn't a sit down restaurant, my friends and I love to go here and sit on the heated outdoor area in the winter. You have the option to make your own lunch or dinner. It is kind of pricey, but well worth it.
6. Pagliai's Pizza- I recently just went here, and I wish I would have known about it earlier. The pizza is surprisingly good for a college town, and they even have frozen pizzas to take home to make in your own oven. Let's face it whether its the heat of the summer or the dead of winter, good pizza is a year round food.
7. The Vine- Maybe I like this place so much because it is 30 seconds from my apartment building, but they really have good bar food along with a great atmosphere to watch the Blackhawks in the playoffs. **Optimistic Chicagoan over here**
8. Formosa- You can't pass up half off rolls two days a week! If you want to eat a little lighter fare during the warm weather, this is your place. Plus, its a cool place if you don't want to go out to the bars, but want to get dressed up with your friends.
