In the heart of the Cedar Valley, you’ll find dining options for all tastes and times of day. Cedar Rapids has a vibrant foodie culture that spans from fine dining establishments to craft breweries to classic supper clubs and so much more. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just grabbing a quick lunch, this eastern Iowa community has no shortage of options. The next time you’re looking for a bite to eat, grab a meal at one of these 10 must-try restaurants in Cedar Rapids.
Rodina
Midwestern comfort foods are elevated with every meal at Rodina. The restaurant’s menu rotates seasonally and often features both meat-forward and veggie-friendly entrees. For a more budget-friendly meal, visit during brunch or stop in for Rodina’s daily happy hour.
Rodina, 1507 C St. SW, Cedar Rapids
Lion Bridge Brewing Co.
Cold pints of craft beer and delicious food converge at Lion Bridge Brewing Co. in Cedar Rapids’ Czech Village. Relax in the spacious taproom or grab a seat on the patio during the warmer months. The brewery’s menu is eclectic with nods to its Eastern European ties through menu items like Pierogies alongside more worldly fare like Arancini, Edamame, and Mexican Street Corn Dip.
Lion Bridge Brewing Company, 59 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids
Black Sheep Social Club
At Black Sheep Social Club you’ll find classic Midwestern favorites given a modern twist. With a stylish space and expansive menu, Black Sheep Social Club is a great place to grab lunch or celebrate with a group. Of course, the eatery also serves a number of menu items like the Lamb Meatballs and Rack of Lamb that may homage to its namesake.
Black Sheep Social Club, 600 First St. SE, Cedar Rapids
Vivian’s Soul Food
The mission of Vivian’s Soul Food is to bring the community together through quality soul food. And after being named the Best Soul Food in the Cedar Rapids and Iowa City area by readers of Little Village magazine three years running, it’s safe to say they’re succeeding.
With a hearty menu of fried chicken, beef short ribs, chicken and waffles, and so much more, you’re sure to leave Vivian’s Soul Food sated and with a craving for more.
Vivian’s Soul Food, 2925 Williams Pkwy. SW, Cedar Rapids
Cobble Hill
Discover a glimpse of Brooklyn in downtown Cedar Rapids at Cobble Hill. This upscale eatery embraces all things sustainability to bring diners locally sourced plates filled with seasonal ingredients and thoughtful dishes.
Cobble Hill also offers a vast selection of libations with a menu of seasonal craft cocktails, wine, beer and an impressive array of spirits.
Cobble Hill, 219 Second St. SE, Cedar Rapids
Irish Democrat
Belly up to the bar in a classic pub atmosphere at the Irish Democrat. This local favorite has a cozy, vintage interior that feels distinctly worldly. Well-known for their cheese wontons and Calla’s Irish Stew, the Irish Democrat is a great spot to visit if you’re looking for a quality meal and a friendly bar atmosphere.
Irish Democrat, 3207 First Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids
Lighthouse Inn Supper Club
If you’re craving a classic supper club experience, look no further than the Lighthouse Inn Supper Club. This Cedar Rapids institution has been serving up hearty meals for more than 100 years and remains a bustling favorite for travelers and locals alike.
It’s rumored that mobsters like John Dillinger and Al Capone frequented the establishment back in their heyday.
Lighthouse Inn Supper Club, 6905 Mt. Vernon Road SE, Cedar Rapids
Need Pizzeria
Every town needs a go-to pizza shop and in Cedar Rapids that’s Need Pizzeria. This eatery and craft beer bar makes handcrafted thin crust, New Haven style pizzas with a variety of build-your-own toppings. Dine in to enjoy a pint or two, or take your pie to enjoy at home.
Need Pizzeria, 207 Second Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids
The Map Room
The Map Room is another favorite of Cedar Rapids residents — and for good reason. This cozy downtown restaurant serves a tempting menu of internationally-inspired burgers and mouth-watering loaded French fries. Travel around the world without ever leaving Iowa with a meal at this beloved local spot.
The Map Room, 416 Third St. SE, Cedar Rapids
Caucho
Satisfy your cravings with gourmet Mexican food at Caucho. This popular restaurant in New Bohemia serves up lots of Mexican favorites with creative twists. Enjoy unique taco combinations on handmade tortillas and sip on seasonal tequila and mezcal-forward cocktails.
Caucho, 1202 Third St. SE, Suite 102, Cedar Rapids
About the Guest Blogger
Megan Bannister is a freelance writer and blogger at Olio in Iowa based in Des Moines, Iowa. When she’s not sampling and writing about food, Megan enjoys visiting unique destinations, roadside attractions, and “world’s largest” things across the Midwest and beyond. Her book, Iowa Supper Clubs, highlights classic eateries past and present from around the state.