Ask Alumni: What’s Your Favorite Iowa City Coffee Shop?

ILLUSTRATION: Jimmy Losasso

Coffee shops are integral to Iowa City’s identity as a UNESCO City of Literature, serving as vibrant hubs of connection and creativity where students and community members can settle in with a good book, focus on homework, or kindle friendships.

Although some past favorites have closed over the years, several shops owned by University of Iowa alumni remain dedicated to keeping Iowa City caffeinated. Recently, we asked Hawkeyes on Facebook to name their favorite Iowa City coffee spots, both past and present. Their responses showed just how much UI students and alumni love a good cup of joe.

PHOTO: PRESS COFFEE

Press Coffee

Press Coffee, 1120 N. Dodge St. in Iowa City, was overwhelmingly recommended by the Hawkeye community.

Press is co-owned by alumni Kate Ford (03BM) and Lisa Edwards (10BFA), whose shared backgrounds as baristas and roller derby teammates set in motion their partnership.

“Press Coffee Iowa City is the best coffee shop in the state with the raddest owners and staff.”
—Nichole Nidey

PHOTO: UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARKING OFFICE

Great Midwestern Ice Cream Company

Affectionately known as “Great Mid,” this blast from the past—formerly located at 126 E. Washington St. in downtown Iowa City—was an alumni favorite. Who would have thought to buy their morning coffee at an ice cream parlor?

“Great Midwestern! I miss it so much—I can't believe it's gone even after 20+ years. I'm still in mourning.”
—Mandy McClenahan

“Great Midwestern Ice Cream Company was the besssstt.”
—Amanda Grace

PHOTO: Java House

Java House

Java House holds a special place in the hearts of Hawkeyes. Its founder, Tara Cronbaugh (98BA), developed a business plan in a UI entrepreneurship class in 1993 before opening the first Java House location on the second floor of Prairie Lights Books the following year. The Washington Street location soon debuted, and the Mormon Trek Boulevard and First Avenue locations followed in 1998 and 2003, respectively.

“Java House downtown!”
—Erika Earp

“Love the chai latte at The Java House.”
—Connie Cramer Caster

PHOTO: Sidekick Coffee and Books

Sidekick Coffee and Books

Sidekick Coffee and Books, 1310½ Melrose Ave. in Iowa City, offers gourmet coffee and teas alongside baked goods and books. Owner Katy Herbold (03BA), who has a passion for promoting literacy, originally opened Sidekick with a focus on children’s books. The demand for adult titles, however, prompted the shop to rapidly expand its selections.

“Sidekick Coffee & Books—owned by an amazing Iowa alum!”
—Melinda Moe

“Sidekick for the amazing chai & cute environment or Press!”
—Jaci Albrect

PHOTO: Daydrink

Daydrink

Daydrink, 518 Bowery St. in Iowa City, is a sustainability-minded coffee shop. With a slogan of “A Coffee Shop That Gives a Damn,” Daydrink offers glass jars for to-go orders and ethically sourced coffee that is roasted in-house.

“DAYDRINK forever!”
—Matt Cabel

“Daydrink on Bowery! So many weird and wonderful concoctions to try, super smooth coffee, and plenty of fun things to look at while you hang out there.”
—Sasha Alexander