If you are looking for good restaurants in Cedar Rapids IA for eating, then you have come to the right place!
Cedar Rapids is the second-largest city in Iowa and one of the top adventurous places to visit in the Midwest. From interesting attractions to a diverse range of cuisine, this city makes for an exceptional vacation destination.
You will find several amazing places to eat in Cedar Rapids Iowa lined on the historic district. Over the years, many local food joints and diners have emerged that serve unique food in Cedar Rapids.
So, whether you are looking for authentic Mexican food, a delicious plate of mac ‘n’ cheese, or bakery items, this city has all kinds of variety to tickle your taste buds.
That’s not all, there are many cool bars and pubs to explore here as well for locally crafted beers and other unique drinks.
Unsure about which Cedar Rapids restaurant you should explore? Then, check out our list of the 15 best restaurants in Cedar Rapids IA that you must try!
15 Best Restaurants in Cedar Rapids IA You Must Try
Cobble Hill Restaurant
If you are looking for upscale restaurants in Cedar Rapids, then you should check out Cobble Hill Restaurant, Cedar Rapids.
This restaurant features seasonal American fares and specialty cocktails which makes it one of the best places to eat in Cedar Rapids. All the dishes are made from scratch using the local ingredients and the restaurant promotes sustainability.
In drinks, you will find delicious cocktails made with freshly-squeezed lemon, locally crafted beer, wine, whiskey, and more here.
A few of the best dishes to try here are Berkshire pork, Brown butter panna cotta, tuna Crudo, and more.
This family-run restaurant in Cedar Rapids is one of the top places to dine in the city. Their menu might be limited but the few deliciously prepared dishes will make you forget all about it!
Cappy’s Pizzeria
For pizza lovers, there is no other better place than Cappy’s Pizzeria in this Midwestern city.
This Cedar Rapids Iowa restaurant features a retro décor with vinyl tables and laminated rock album menus, to give it a classy feel. As a result, this restaurant also makes a great hangout spot for friends or planning a date.
From New York thin crust pizza to Chicago deep-dish pizza, you can order all types of American pizzas here along with a bottle of wine or a beer. Make sure you try the house’s special calzone when you are visiting this pizzeria.
If you are looking for a casual dine-in place or want to enjoy some quality time with family or friends, then Cappy’s Pizzeria is one of the top restaurants in Cedar Rapids to try.
The Map Room
Are you looking for a casual eating spot in the city? Then, check out The Map Room which was opened in 2017 and is one of the locals’ favorites!
It is one of the best Cedar Rapids Iowa restaurants that serve burgers and fries from all over the world.
So, if you wanted to go on a global food tour, then you should visit this restaurant in Cedar Rapids.
One of the best things about this restaurant is that you can build your burger here. Choose your desired bun, patty, sauces, veggies, etc.
Then pair it with a plate of fries and an old-fashioned cocktail. They also serve vegetarian-friendly options here such as The Delhi Burger.
If you are craving a delicious burger, then this is one of the best restaurants in Cedar Rapids.
Black Sheep Social Club
Established in 2016, Black Sheep Social Club is one of the top restaurants in downtown Cedar Rapids that is located in a historic building.
This restaurant serves the best Cedar Rapids food including some of the old Midwest favorites.
You should check out their Duck Fat Fries, Prime rib, Pork belly, and Crunch Town Fish Nuggets. That’s not all, this Cedar Rapids restaurant also features a huge list of beers, cocktails, and wine to enjoy with your meal.
So, if you are looking for a good restaurant downtown, then Black Sheep Social Clubs is one of the best restaurants in Cedar Rapids to check out!
Oyama Sushi & Steakhouse
For those who are looking to eat Japanese cuisine food in Cedar Rapids, Oyama Sushi & Steakhouse is a good choice.
At this restaurant in Cedar Rapids, the food is not only delicious but served so brilliantly that eating here is a true delight for all your senses.
The best thing about this place is that they offer different seating arrangements, depending on your preference.
For a casual meal, you can sit at the sushi bar and try their amazing rolls or enjoy a proper meal in the sitting area.
If you are looking for something more lavish, then you can opt to sit at a Hibachi table. You will be served delicacies like scallops, TeppanYaki salmon, lobsters, etc. by a personal chef.
Whether you choose a casual or a more personal dining option, Oyama Sushi & Steakhouse is one of the top restaurants in Cedar Rapids that you cannot miss out on!
Biaggi’s Ristorante Italian
One of the top restaurants in Cedar Rapids IA to serve Italian cuisine, Biaggi’s Ristorante Italian has been catering to guests since 1999.
This place offers authentic and freshly prepared Italian dishes using local ingredients. From pizza to pasta, to steaks, you can get it all here at extremely affordable prices.
Moreover, due to its warm and comfortable environment, it is a great place to bring your family and friends for a casual meetup.
Honestly, this is the best restaurant in Cedar Rapids Iowa to get your Italian fill.
Don’t forget to try their Chicken Pesto Pizza or Pesto Ravioli, it is simply delicious. They also offer many vegetarian-friendly options for visitors, isn’t that amazing?
If you are craving some Italian cuisine, you should check out Biaggi’s Ristorante Italian.
The Class Act Restaurant
If you want to enjoy a fine dining experience in the city, then The Class Act Restaurant is a top restaurant in downtown Cedar Rapids to try.
This is one of the few places that serve gourmet food in Cedar Rapids and even offers an amazing selection of wine and cocktails to go with it.
Ideal for family and romantic dinners, this fine dining establishment uses local seasonal vegetables to prepare the dishes.
Here are a few dishes that you should order when dining at this place – Orange Dream Cheesecake, Ribeye Steak, Steak Frites, and more.
So, if you are looking for a fine dining experience, The Class Act is one of the most amazing restaurants in Cedar Rapids to offer it.
Zeppelins
Famous for its steampunk art, Zeppelins opened in 2009 and is a top Cedar Rapids restaurant to offer modern American fares.
It is a high-end casual dining establishment that is one of the few restaurants in Cedar Rapids Iowa to serve gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian menu options.
They also have an amazing selection of beer, cocktails, and wine to pair up with your food.
For vegetarians, lettuce wraps and a bowl of Brussel sprouts is a good choice. But if you are a meat lover, then you cannot miss out on the delicious prime rib sandwich, Santa Fe steak, and teriyaki salmon here.
Trust me, this is one of the top restaurants you cannot miss out on in Cedar Rapids.
White Star Ale House
Opened in 2011, White Star Ale House is one of the top restaurants in downtown Cedar Rapids. Over the years, they have revamped their establishment several times to improve their services, making them such a favorite among the locals.
It is one of the best Cedar Rapids restaurants in downtown Cedar Rapids that is famous for its wontons and prime ribs.
That’s not all, they also host many exciting events and parties to provide entertainment to their guests.
This is one of the dining places in town where a few things that you must try are Lamb shank, Monterey burger, 5 Seasons Chicken, and more.
Irish Democrat
One of the most popular Cedar Rapids Iowa restaurants among the locals, Irish Democrat is a vintage-themed restaurant.
It was opened in 1984 as a classic Irish pub and serves the most delicious gourmet food and beer in the city.
With its antique decors and friendly ambiance, this restaurant is a great place to visit with your friends.
Plus, their specialty sandwiches, burgers, pizzas, salads, etc. are quite famous throughout the city.
Do try their cheese wontons, Calla’s Irish stew, chicken fingers, and the signature sandwich. You will love it.
In case you are looking for good restaurants in Cedar Rapids to dine with your friends, then Irish Democrat is a clear choice.
Emil’s Hideaway
One of the top-rated restaurants in Cedar Rapids for burgers, Emil’s Hideaway serves classic American food in the town.
Opened in 2013, this fast-casual restaurant is cozy and one of the coolest places to take your family or friends.
It is perfect for visitors of all ages and offers sumptuous dishes that you won’t forget anytime soon.
A few top dishes to try here are Philly cheesesteaks, Lobster Mac ‘n’ cheese, Redneck Nachos, Chicken Bacon Sandwich, and so on.
If you are looking for a casual hang-out spot to meet and eat with your friends, then Emil’s Hideaway is a great choice.
Short’s Burger & Shine
Short’s Burger & Shine is the best Cedar Rapids Iowa restaurant that serves gourmet burgers made using locally sourced ingredients.
All the burgers are prepared using the locally sourced black Angus beef and everything is hand-cut daily for cooking.
Although they have a small menu consisting of beef, chicken, and black bean burger only, the preparation is so well that there is no need to add a variety.
You can order them with or without fries and enjoy the amazing taste.
Apart from the delicious food, this restaurant also offers locally crafted beer and cider to the customers.
If you are craving a burger, then this is one of the best places to eat in Cedar Rapids Iowa.
Need Pizza Is One Of The Coolest Restaurants in Cedar Rapids IA
Known for its New Haven-style pizza, Need Pizza is one of the top Cedar Rapids restaurants to explore in the city.
This restaurant was established in 2015 and is one of the most affordable places to order a whole hand-crafted pizza.
Another great thing about this place is that it is very community-oriented and collaborates with different organizations to set up donations for different causes.
Design your pizza here with mushrooms, meatballs, roasted red peppers, and more.
You can pair it with chips or guacamoles and complete your meal with an order of their specialty pies. Make sure you try their Big Boy Meat-Balls and craft beer on your visit here.
Overall, this is one of the top restaurants in Cedar Rapids Iowa to eat pizzas.
Vino’s Ristorante
If you are looking for a restaurant in Cedar Rapids Iowa that offers an intimate setting to spend some quality time with your partner, then Vino’s Ristorante is a good choice.
It is one of the top restaurants in Cedar Rapids that allows the option to dine in its comfortable and luxurious dining room. Or relax with a glass of wine or a cocktail in the lounge room.
They have a big selection of drinks including special cocktails, wine, beer, and more.
Plan a visit to this restaurant with your date and order the amazing starters followed by the main course.
A few dishes that you can try here are filet mignon, piccata style veal, yellowfin tuna, and more.
Vivian’s Soul Food Restaurant In Cedar Rapids Serves Great Comfort Food
Looking for some comfort Cedar Rapids food? If yes, then check out this family-run food shop, Vivian’s Soul Food.
One of the main highlights of this restaurant is that it served traditional southern soul dishes such as collards, fried chicken, and so on.
It is a simple restaurant with minimal décor that offers a casual and friendly vibe to visitors. As a result, this is the best place to visit with your friends or family members.
This is one of the top restaurants in Cedar Rapids Iowa to serve such southern fares at this affordable pricing.
When you visit this restaurant, do try their red beans and rice, jerk chicken, mac ‘n’ cheese, and pot roast.
Here we presented you with 15 of the most drool-worthy restaurants in Cedar Rapids Iowa.
Whether you are driving through the city on your Midwest road trip or planning a stay, there are so many places to eat in Cedar Rapids Iowa!
Bon Apetit.
