The Coffee Kits

A Guide to Iowa City's Hidden Coffee Gems

For coffee lovers, Iowa City is a hidden gem. With its vibrant coffee culture, the city offers a range of coffee shops that cater to different tastes and preferences. In this guide, we'll explore some of Iowa City's best-kept secrets when it comes to coffee.

The High Ground Cafe

If you're looking for a cozy and rustic coffee shop in Iowa City, The High Ground Cafe is the place to be. Located in the heart of downtown, this cafe has a warm and inviting atmosphere, complete with wooden tables and chairs, exposed brick walls, and a fireplace that adds to the ambiance. The cafe serves a range of coffee drinks, including lattes, espressos, and cappuccinos, as well as a variety of teas, smoothies, and baked goods.

John's Grocery

For a unique coffee experience, head to John's Grocery, a historic store that has been a staple in Iowa City since 1948. While the store is known for its selection of craft beer and wine, it also has a hidden coffee bar that serves some of the best coffee in town. The coffee bar is located in the back of the store and offers a range of specialty coffee drinks, including pour-over coffee and nitro cold brew.

The Java House

The Java House is a local institution in Iowa City, having been in business for over 25 years. With several locations throughout the city, the Java House offers a range of coffee drinks, including their signature blend of coffee, which is roasted in-house. The cafe also serves a variety of baked goods, sandwiches, and salads, making it the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up.

The Bluebird Diner

If you're in the mood for a retro coffee experience, head to The Bluebird Diner, a 1940s-style diner that serves up some of the best coffee in town. The diner is known for its breakfast menu, which includes classics like pancakes, omelets, and biscuits and gravy. But the coffee is the real star of the show, with a range of specialty drinks that are sure to satisfy any coffee lover's cravings.

The Sidecar Coffee Shop

If you're a fan of specialty coffee drinks, you won't want to miss The Sidecar Coffee Shop. This cozy cafe has a laid-back vibe and serves a range of unique coffee drinks, including their signature lavender latte and matcha latte. The cafe also offers a variety of pastries and breakfast sandwiches, making it the perfect spot for a quick breakfast or afternoon snack.

Conclusion

Iowa City may be a small town, but it has a vibrant coffee culture that is sure to delight any coffee lover. From cozy cafes to historic stores, the city offers a range of coffee shops that cater to different tastes and preferences. So the next time you're in Iowa City, be sure to check out some of these hidden coffee gems!