Hello all,

Today I would like to share some fun places to go on dates in Iowa City! Whether they are best-friend dates, first dates, or with a partner, there are many student-budget-friendly places in town, or if you’d like to splurge, there are options for that, too!

Budget friendly:

• Z’mariks: For pasta-aficionados, I recommend this low-key eatery. They have big servings for ten bucks, or go on Mondays, where you can get a bowl of mac-and-cheese for 5 bucks!
• Java House/Heirloom: Great coffee (or matcha!) for a chill hangout. Stop by the next-door restaurant Heirloom for some great sandwiches and salads to accompany the caffeine, if dinner or lunch seems like a promising next step.
• Encounter: My favorite first-date place (and success story – my now-boyfriend and I had our first date there!), grab brunch or a casual coffee. No matter the outcome of the date, you can at least guarantee a delicious treat!
• Basta: For my Italian-food lovers out there who want an elevated dinner experience. Lots of gluten-free options and amazing pasta!!
• St. Burch’s Tavern: If aesthetics are your thing, the interior is charming and cozy. Large menu accompanies many different tastes in dining
• Airliner: Delicious, cheap pizza on Sundays. If you’re sporty, a fun place to catch an episode of The Bachelor or a Hawkeye sports game with friends!
• Baroncini: Cute outdoor patio and delicious Italian! I love going here with friends for a girls’ night out, but makes a great date night.
• Spare Me: If food isn’t your thing, Spare Me is a fun bowling alley. Get some snacks and go score some spares!
• FilmScene: Local movie theater, lots of yummy snacks and frequent discounts for students! See new releases or showings of older films
• Yotopia: Fancy a sweet treat? The best froyo in town!!!

These are just a few places of interest, but there are so many more restaurants, shops, and more, depending on your interests. If you have a car, Coralville has even more opportunities! Don’t forget to check the Iowa City events calendar for things like food crawls, concerts, etc!

Bye for now,
Solenn