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Date Night In Iowa City

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!

Z'marik's date! big bowl of noodles
Z’marik’s date!

Bye for now,
Solenn

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