Pub 217

In the heart of vibrant downtown Cedar Rapids, Iowa, lies a spot that perfectly blends the coziness of a classic "neighborhood bar" with high-quality modern cuisine. Pub 217 is a popular gastropub in the USA, where a welcoming atmosphere meets excellent service and truly home-style dishes made exclusively from fresh ingredients.

The establishment draws visitors with its stylish interior, featuring a central three-sided bar and high ceilings that create a sense of space and comfort. It is equally suitable for a family lunch or a lively evening with friends. A distinctive feature of the pub is its commitment to culinary traditions: no pre-made foods are used here, with every sauce and dish created from scratch.

Thanks to its location, Pub 217 has become a favorite gathering point for tourists and locals before attending major events. The city's main cultural centers are within walking distance, making it an excellent starting point for an evening program. The presence of eight modern HD TVs also makes the pub a great spot for sports fans wanting to cheer on their favorite team in great company.

For more details or to book a table for a large group, you can contact the staff directly. Pub 217 maintains an active connection with its guests through its official website and social media.

At Pub 217, everyone will find something to enjoy. The main reason to visit is the gastronomic experience. The menu is packed with American classics with a signature twist: be sure to try the Holy Hot Burger, tender shrimp tacos, or hearty quesadillas. On weekends, the venue transforms into a mecca for brunch lovers—serving magnificent pancakes, French toast, and the famous Pub Breakfast Stack.

For sports fans, the pub offers eight HD TVs broadcasting the most important games. It’s a great place to feel the spirit of community, especially on game days for local university teams. The bar menu will delight craft beer enthusiasts, featuring a wide selection of local brews, including the popular Reunion Amber Ale, as well as various cocktails and spirits.

If you're planning an evening out, Pub 217 is the perfect intermediate stop. Fast service allows for a comfortable bite before a show at the nearby Paramount Theatre. The establishment is also well-equipped to host large groups, and the friendly staff is always ready to help you choose a dish to match your mood. For those who prefer the comfort of a night in, takeout service is available.

Pub 217 is located in the heart of downtown at 217 3rd St SE. Thanks to its central location, the venue is within walking distance of the city's main cultural landmarks, such as the Paramount Theatre and the Alliant Energy PowerHouse Arena. If you are staying at one of the downtown hotels, the walk to the pub will take only a few minutes.

For those arriving by car, there are several parking zones and street parking spots available in the vicinity. From the Eastern Iowa Airport (CID), the trip by taxi or rental car takes about 20–25 minutes via I-380, which provides convenient access directly to the downtown area.

Cedar Rapids public transport also makes it easy to reach the area: most bus routes pass through the nearby central transport hub. For maximum convenience, you can use taxi services or Uber, which are very active in this area.

The history of Pub 217 began relatively recently—the establishment opened its doors to its first visitors in October 2015. Despite its youth, it quickly blended into the landscape of the revitalized downtown, becoming an important part of the region's gastronomic map.

The pub's creators aimed to embody the concept of the perfect neighborhood bar—a local spot where high-quality food meets a laid-back atmosphere. The name simply and concisely reflects its location in building number 217, making it an easy-to-recognize landmark in the downtown area.

Over the years, the venue has earned a reputation as a reliable spot with consistently high service standards. It has gone through several menu updates while keeping its main hits—craft burgers and homemade appetizers that local residents have come to love.

Today, the pub is positioned not just as a place to eat, but as a modern social space. They value the traditions of American hospitality, paying special attention to preparing dishes "from scratch," which sets Pub 217 apart from the city's chain restaurants.

When planning a visit to Pub 217, you should consider your goals. If you're stopping by for a quick lunch or just want to grab a beer while watching a sports broadcast, 45–60 minutes should be sufficient.

For a full dinner with friends or a leisurely weekend brunch, it's better to set aside 1.5 to 2 hours. This will be enough time to enjoy the signature dishes and explore the drink selection at the bar. If you plan to visit before a concert or theater performance, it’s best to arrive early, given the venue's high popularity in the evening hours.

The establishment welcomes guests daily, offering a convenient schedule for both early lunches and late dinners. Pub 217 operates on the following schedule:

• Monday — Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
• Thursday — Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM
• Saturday — Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Please note that operating hours may vary slightly during major sporting events or holidays, and the brunch menu is typically available from opening on weekends.

Strolling around the area surrounding Pub 217 is a great way to get acquainted with the architecture and culture of the downtown area. Combining a visit to the pub with some local sightseeing will ensure you have a truly packed and interesting day.

Within a short walking distance are historic buildings, monuments, and picturesque bridges over the Cedar River, which create the unique look of this part of Iowa.