Dining with Dietary Restrictions

Don’t worry about where to eat in Iowa City if you need or prefer gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan options. These restaurants are just some of the many that can accommodate your dietary requirements.

Bluebird Diner Exterior, from Michaela Kendall, “Here are 11 Delicious Diners in Iowa,” Only in your State, http://www.onlyinyourstate.com/iowa/11-awesome-diners-in-ia/

Breakfast

Bluebird Diner: Bluebird is a popular brunch spot committed to working with local providers. I love their gluten-free pancakes, but you can also find egg dishes that will work if you need to avoid wheat.

Nodo Exterior, From @Nododowntown, https://twitter.com/nododowntown

Lunch

Mama’s Deli: This modest lunch option is particularly good for those on a gluten free diet thanks to the gluten free bread available for their sandwiches. Choose either the small (mama) or the large (papa) size. I often get the Cuban.
Nodo: A busier and more hipster option than Mama’s, Nodo also offers gluten free buns. My favorites are the Number 7 Ham & Mango and the classic Nodo Burger.

Trumpet Blossom Exterior, From “Trumpet Blossom-Iowa City, IA,” EverydayTastiness, http://www.everydaytastiness.com/2015/08/trumpet-blossomiowa-city-ia.html

Dinner

Trumpet Blossom: A ten-minute walk from downtown Iowa City, Trumpet Blossom should be a destination for those on any special diet. Trumpet Blossom is particularly great for vegetarians and vegans. While you’re there, don’t miss out on their excellent cocktails!
Mellow Mushroom: This chain restaurant is attached to the Coral Ridge Mall in Coralville. While its environment is loud and kid-friendly, it offers the best gluten free pizza in town.

Interior of Molly’s Cupcakes, from Dees Stribling, Been There, Seen That, http://www.dees-stribling.com/2015/04/02/mollys-cupcakes/

Dessert

Molly’s Cupcakes: Need a treat and you’re vegan or gluten free? No problem, Molly’s cupcakes allows you to create your own gluten free cupcakes by combining designated flavors and frostings. Decadent.

Exterior of Bread Garden, Brian Ray “My Biz: Iowa City’s Bread Garden Market & Bakery works to maximize space,” The Gazette, September 5, 2013, http://www.thegazette.com/2013/09/05/the-ground-floor-iowa-citys-bread-garden-market-bakery-works-to-maximize-space

Grocery Stores

New Pioneer Co-Op: This grocery store has a selection of hot and cold to-go items that suit a variety of dietary preferences.
Bread Garden: A recommended lunch option for those who want to eat in at their restaurant space or take supplies back to your hotel room. Contrary to its name, those who need to avoid bread will have plenty of options here. Hot buffet options are labeled if they are gluten free.

–Amy Hildreth Chen
Special Collections Instruction Librarian &
Interim English and American Literature Librarian
University of Iowa Libraries