Vine Tavern & Eatery - DOWNTOWN Iowa City

In the heart of Iowa City sits one of the state's most atmospheric establishments — The Vine Tavern & Eatery. This is more than just a restaurant; it is a recognized historic landmark housed in a magnificent building constructed in 1904–1905. The brick and stone exterior, thickly covered in green vines during the summer season, creates a unique sense of coziness and antiquity, drawing tourists from all over the USA.

Inside, guests will find an authentic rustic-style sports bar occupying the basement and part of the first floor. The establishment is famous for its commitment to tradition and serves as the headquarters for dedicated fans of the university team, the Hawkeyes. The combination of historical charm and a relaxed atmosphere makes it a must-visit for any traveler.

The Vine Tavern & Eatery is valued not only for its architecture but also for its excellent cuisine, which has transformed this former Irish pub into a culinary landmark of the city. It is a place where the industrial past of old Iowa meets modern hospitality, creating the perfect space for relaxation and friendly gatherings.

If you are planning to visit this iconic spot, be sure to save its location and contact details. The Vine Tavern & Eatery warmly welcomes both locals and travelers, offering excellent service in a historical setting.

To check availability or book a table for a large group, you can use the official communication channels. Below are the current contact details for the establishment.

The main gastronomic adventure at The Vine Tavern & Eatery is tasting their legendary buffalo wings. They offer a choice of 14 different sauce flavors, making every visit unique. Equally popular are the signature juicy burgers and a variety of deep-fried appetizers, which perfectly complement the wide selection of cold beers and craft cocktails.

If you love sports, be sure to stop by on a game day. Watching University of Iowa matches surrounded by energetic fans is a special experience that lets you feel the true local community spirit. For those who prefer a more quiet time, the cozy basement interior with its brick walls and soft lighting is the perfect spot for an evening conversation.

Visitors can also relax on the renovated outdoor patio or spend time playing games at the bar. The venue is great for large groups and family outings, offering affordable prices and friendly service. Don't forget to notice the interior details that have preserved the historic look of the old industrial building, even after recent renovations.

Reaching The Vine Tavern & Eatery is easy, as it is conveniently located in the heart of Iowa City at 330 E Prentiss St. A useful landmark is the intersection with S Gilbert St, which is just a few minutes' walk from the lively Ped Mall and the University of Iowa campus.

For those who prefer walking, the trip from the central university buildings or main shopping streets takes about 5 to 15 minutes. If you are traveling by car, parking can be found along the Gilbert St corridor or on the adjacent downtown streets. In the warmer months, the building is easy to recognize by the characteristic green vines thickly covering the old brick walls.

Public transport users can take the Iowa City Transit buses, with stops located in the immediate vicinity of the tavern. Taxis are also readily available from anywhere in the city, or you can arrive by bicycle, which is a very popular choice among local students.

The history of the building that houses The Vine Tavern & Eatery today dates back to the early 20th century. It was built in 1904–1905 for the Hawthorne Glove & Novelty Co., which became the city's first glove factory. It is a rare surviving example of industrial architecture from that era, built of stone and brick, and its exterior has remained virtually unchanged for over a hundred years.

The tavern itself as a business opened in 1970, though it was originally located elsewhere and operated as a classic Irish pub serving only drinks. In 1977, due to urban renewal plans, the establishment moved to its current historic building on E Prentiss Street. A new chapter began in 1983 when Joe Kennedy became the owner and decided to expand the pub's concept.

Kennedy introduced a full menu with an emphasis on grilled and deep-fried dishes, and in 1986, due to the immense popularity of their signature burgers, a modern kitchen was added. It was then that the name was changed to Vine Tavern & Eatery. In the 2010s, the property was granted official status as a local historic landmark, confirming its significance to the architectural and cultural heritage of the region.

For a standard visit including a leisurely lunch or dinner, visitors usually need 1 to 2 hours. This is plenty of time to enjoy the food and appreciate the unique interior of the historic building.

If you visit on the day of an important University of Iowa game to cheer for the Hawkeyes, or if you plan to spend the evening with a large group of friends, you should budget 2 to 3 hours. The atmosphere of sporting excitement and lively socializing makes for a longer and more fun experience.

The establishment is open to guests daily. At the beginning of the week, on Monday, the tavern is open from 11:00 to 21:00. From Tuesday to Thursday, the doors are open from 11:00 to 22:00, and on Friday and Saturday, the venue becomes a nightlife hub, staying open until midnight (00:00). On Sunday, the hours are 11:00 to 21:00.

Please note that operating hours may change depending on holidays or major sporting events. Before visiting, it is recommended to check the latest information on the official website or by phone.

After a pleasant lunch or dinner at the tavern, you can continue exploring the city, as many interesting locations are within walking distance. A stroll around the neighborhood will allow you to better feel the atmosphere of old Iowa and see iconic historical and cultural monuments.

Below is a list of attractions to include in your itinerary: