The Press-Citizen has compiled a list of best patios in the area, here's what made the cut
The Iowa City corridor is stuffed full of wonderful places to eat. As the temperatures continue to rise, local establishments have started to open their doors, welcoming a different dining experience.
Despite ongoing construction on Dubuque Street, classic patios such as St. Burch Tavern remain open. Additionally, there are plenty of other outdoor options available throughout spring and summer.
Here are the best patios and rooftops to try in the Iowa City and Coralville corridor:
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30 Hop
Located in the Iowa River Landing in Coralville, 30 Hop is the place to dine outdoors, from the rooftop to the main level patio. There is something on the menu for everyone at 30 Hop, with a wide selection of classic burgers to vegetarian options like the yakisoba bowl. 30 Hop also has an extensive drink menu from craft cocktails to local beers. The establishment boasts one of the best cocktail hours in town, with $3 off mules and $2 off Iowa brewed drafts from 3 to 6 p.m., Sunday through Thursday.
Location: 900 E 2nd Ave., Coralville
Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday
Contact: 319-351-3800 or @30hop
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Big Grove Brewery
Big Grove Brewery features one of Iowa City's most expansive patios, offering a prime location steps away from Riverfront Crossings. The brewery is a fan favorite year-round in Iowa City, but its popularity explodes in the warmer months, with its seasonal menu showcasing a diverse range of food options and craft beers. Big Grove welcomes furry friends, making it a favorite spot for dog lovers. The original brewery opened in 2013 in Solon and also sports a pleasant patio.
Location: 1225 S Gilbert St., Iowa City
Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday
Contact: 319-354-2687 or @biggrovebrewery
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BlackStone
BlackStone has been an eastside favorite for more than 15 years. It also boasts one of the best patios in town, wrapping around the restaurant's perimeter.
BlackStone’s menu is built on various iterations of classic American dishes. The accompanying whiskey bar has more than 150 options to go with various cocktails and beers.
Location: 503 Westbury Dr. #1, Iowa City
Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday
Contact: 319-338-1770 or @blackstoneic
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Bluebird Diner
Bluebird Diner is a quintessential Iowa City favorite and the most iconic diner in Iowa. While the establishment is a year-round favorite, its shaded patio is a good place to relax in the summer.
The Bluebird Diner is best known for its spin on classic diner breakfast items. It also offers a comprehensive lunch and dinner menu that features burgers, sandwiches, soups, and salads.
Location: 330 E Market St., Iowa City
Hours: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday
Contact: 319-351-1470 or @bluebirddineric
Burger Haul
Burger Haul opened in 2020 and quickly became a downtown favorite. Located in the Pedmall, Burger Haul has a small but mighty patio. The menu ranges from unique burgers like the Nach-yo Ordinary Burger, which has tortilla chips smothered in queso on the burger, to an Iowa favorite, the loose ground beef sandwich.
Location: 112 E College St., Iowa City
Hours: Closed Monday through Wednesday; Open 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Thursday and Friday; 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday
Contact: 319-354-3837 or burgerhaulic.com
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DeLuxe Cakes & Pastries
Located on historic Summit St., DeLuxe Cakes and Pastries is one of Iowa City’s few full-service bakeries. The bakery has been a mainstay in the community for the past 20 years, serving up an array of baked goods from croissants to chocolate chip cookies and even sandwiches. The charming patio directly in front of the storefront offers guests a delightful ambiance reminiscent of a quaint European town.
Location: 812 S Summit St., Iowa City
Hours: Closed on Monday, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday; 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday
Contact: 319-338-5000 or @deluxeiowa
Field Day Brewing Company
Field Day Brewing has quickly cemented itself as one of the best patios in Johnson County. Located next to The Tin Roost, the not-even-a-year-old microbrewery boasts a substantial list of craft beers and THC drinks. Field Day also serves an array of burgers, chicken sandwiches, fry baskets, and a giant pretzel.
Location: 925 Liberty Way, North Liberty
Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday
Contact: 319-665-0025 or @fielddaybeer
Mammitas Coffee
In downtown Iowa City, Mammitas Coffee offers a unique blend of coffee, flowers, and pastries. The establishment opened in 2020 and serves flavors like horchata and dulce de leche. It also serves traditional coffee fare and other Latin dishes like Cuban sandwiches and street tacos. Guests can either dine on Mammitas' front patio or the patio tucked away in the back.
Location: 224 S Linn St., Iowa City
Hours: Closed on Sunday and Tuesday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, and Wednesday toSaturday
Contact: 319-569-1067, or @mammitascoffee
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Press Coffee
Press Coffee is one of the homiest cafés in Iowa City, and the inside matches the exterior. Anchored by a large patio, grab a classic French press or one of the many espresso beverages, smoothies, tea, and various pastries options. Whether you're looking to be productive or unwind, Press Coffee offers the perfect setting to enjoy quality time with friends or work in a refreshing change of scenery.
Location: 1120 N Dodge St., Iowa City
Hours: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday
Contact: 319-887-1500, or @presscoffee_ic
Red’s Alehouse
Red’s Alehouse in North Liberty has a noteworthy patio. It offers appealing happy hour specials seven days a week, including a two-for-one deal. The restaurant is best known for its variety of burgers and flatbreads paired with craft beer and a scenic patio experience. Red's is on a bike trail, making it a great pit stop or destination.
Location: 405 N Dubuque St., North Liberty
Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Monday; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Sunday
Contact: 319-626-2100 or @reds.alehouse
Stella
Stell is just steps from Kinnick Stadium, a contemporary spot that blends American classics with Cajun fare. The secluded patio, adorned with greenery, provides an intimate dining experience despite its proximity to Melrose Ave. A pergola covering ensures the patio remains shadier than others, creating ideal conditions for outdoor dining.
Location: 1006 Melrose Ave, Iowa City
Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday
Contact: 319-887-5564 or @stellaiowacity
Jessica Rish is an entertainment, dining and business reporter for the Iowa City Press-Citizen. She can be reached at JRish@press-citizen.com or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @rishjessica_
This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: Where can you find the best patio dining experiences in Iowa City?
