While Iowa’s food scene sometimes flies under the radar, these two first class eateries could hang with any other spot in the country.
Cobble Hill Restaurant in Cedar Rapids pairs seasonal farm-fresh plates with craft cocktails in a sleek urban space.
Meanwhile, Iowa City’s The Encounter Cafe blends homemade cinnamon rolls and ethically sourced coffee with a mission-driven community vibe. Both prove Midwest charm thrives beyond the mainstream.
Cobble Hill Restaurant – Cedar Rapids
Looking for a Midwest dining experience that blends Brooklyn-inspired energy with Iowa’s farm-fresh charm?
Cobble Hill Restaurant delivers bold flavors, seasonal creativity, and Midwestern hospitality in Cedar Rapids’ historic NewBo district.
This sleek spot – named after a NYC neighborhood by its Brooklyn-transplant owners – swaps pretension for playful elegance, earning its reputation as a must-visit for food lovers. 🍴
Food Highlights
- Aged Pekin Duck: Glazed to perfection with crackling skin, this dish earns raves for its tender meat and artistic plating. Reviewers call it “so good I didn’t want it to end” – pair it with seasonal veggies. 🦆
- Flat Iron Steak: A crowd-pleaser served with inventive sauces, praised for its buttery texture and robust char. Yelpers note it’s “cooked so well” with unique local twists. 🥩
- Chorizo-Stuffed Amish Chicken: Juicy, smoky, and stuffed with house-made chorizo, this dish balances comfort and flair. Diners call it “fall-off-the-bone” perfection.
- Oysters: Fresh East Coast varieties arrive with zesty mignonette or spicy cocktail sauce – ideal for sharing. 🦪
- Black Forest Cake: A decadent finale featuring layers of chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream. One guest declared it “better than any birthday cake.” 🍰
Atmosphere
Step into a moody, urban oasis with exposed brick walls, soft lighting, and lush greenery.
The open kitchen adds drama as chefs craft plates like edible art. Despite its upscale vibe, the energy stays relaxed – think date-night cozy meets lively bar chatter.
Staff members radiate passion, whether explaining farm sources or crafting smoky mezcal cocktails. 🍸
Bottom Line
Cobble Hill shines by turning Iowa’s bounty into edible storytelling.
Visit for: creative seasonal menus, Instagram-worthy plates, and service that treats picky eaters and wine connoisseurs with equal warmth.
Address: 219 2nd St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
Related: What Makes this Iowa Breakfast Spot SO Special
The Encounter Cafe – Iowa City
Tucked away in Iowa City, The Encounter Cafe 🌟 is where farm-fresh ingredients meet small-town charm.
This family-owned spot serves up hearty breakfasts and lunches with a side of community spirit.
Think fluffy omelets, buttery pastries, and coffee so good it’ll make you forget Starbucks exists.
With locally sourced eggs, dairy, and fair-trade beans, every bite supports Iowa farmers—and tastes like a hug from Grandma.
Food Highlights
- Cinnamon Rolls: Baked fresh daily, these sticky-sweet spirals 🥐 are legendary. Reviewers call them “the best in Iowa City,” with a glaze that’s just right—no dentist required.
- Soft Pretzels: A signature item, served warm with velvety cheese sauce. Pro tip: Take one to go—they stay delicious for hours. 🥨
- Garden Turkey Omelette: Packed with fresh veggies and free-range eggs, this monster-sized dish 🥚 keeps brunch crowds coming back.
- Avocado Toast: Topped with spinach, feta, and tomatoes, it’s a millennial magnet (and actually worth the hype). 🥑
- Chipotle Bacon Egg Sandwich: Spicy, smoky, and stuffed into a flaky croissant—breakfast perfection.
- Chicken Avocado Panini: Lunchtime favorite with tender chicken, creamy avocado, and crusty bread.
Atmosphere
The vibe here is cozy-meets-energetic ☕. Bright tables, smiling staff, and the hum of espresso machines create a living-room feel.
It’s spotless (seriously—spotless), with Amish bakers quietly crafting pastries behind the counter. Students camp out with laptops, families chatter over muffins, and everyone leaves feeling like a regular.
Bottom Line
Visit for generous portions, friendly service, and the kind of cinnamon rolls that haunt your dreams.
Plus, profits fund local charities—so your latte literally does good.
Address: 376 S Clinton St, Iowa City, IA | Open Mon-Sat until 2:30 PM (grill closes at 1 PM).
Related: 3 of The BEST Barbecue Restauraunts to Try Across in Iowa