Sarah Walz, part-time urban planner for the City of Iowa City and President, New Pioneer Co-op Board of Directors “I naturally gravitate to the Northside Marketplace for the most part,” said Walz. “It’s away from the crush of students and pretty eclectic.” Her ideal culinary tour would start at Devotay for their tapas, as an appetizer. “Bacon-wrapped dates, cheeses and olives are always on my list,” she said, adding that Devotay’s emphasis on local foods is important to her. “Plus, they are really good at recommending a wine to go with whatever you’re eating, and the atmosphere is intimate and unfussy.” A spot for drinks is a toss-up between the Clinton Street Social Club, where the food and local beer selections are excellent, and Brix Cheese Shop and Wine Bar for its namesake wine and cheese, Walz said, noting that both offer a great atmosphere. Walz would choose Basta for both the main course and dessert, partly because her whole family can eat there, including her son. Basta uses local ingredients, makes their own sausage and “the tiramisu is great,” she said.
Jennifer Jordan, recycling coordinator, City of Iowa City Jordan’s ideal culinary tour would start with appetizers — including deviled eggs and charcuterie — at the Clinton Street Social Club. Drinks, with “whatever IPA is on tap” would be at Micky’s, she said, with the main meal at Atlas, for its Mac ‘n Cheese. Dessert for Jordan is simple. “Anything at Molly’s Cupcakes,” she said.
Spring 2014
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IC downtown magazine
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