Sometimes you just crave a juicy burger, amiright? From impossible patties and bacon burgers to blueberry-infused and egg-topped, a burger can come in many delicious forms. Best part is all of these are local to Cedar Rapids.
We asked moms what their 10 favorite burger places are around the area, and here is what they are:
Shorts Burgers & Shine
With more than 21 unique burger variations (many named after Iowa towns), these never frozen beef patties are sourced from local farmers. From toppings like tzatziki, sauerkraut, pico de gallo and blue cheese, each burger is uniquely delish and distinct.
Tornado’s Grub & Pub
Tornado’s stamped burgers are iconic in the corridor’s burger scene. This dive bar/hole in the wall joint continually ranks as one of the best burger joints in Iowa. The eclectic atmosphere, downtown location, consistently stellar service, and top-notch burgers & fries – what’s not to love?
Black Sheep Social Club
Black Sheep creates old Midwest favorites with inspired new twists and international influence – like the smoked blueberry & goat cheese burger! Their unique cuisine pairs perfectly with the rustic décor, beautiful zinc bar top, hand crafted seating and industrial art work.
The Map Room
The Map Room serves internationally-inspired burgers & fries, salads & sandwiches, artisan cocktails, mocktails, craft beer, and wine in a cozy and eclectic atmosphere. Their menu features flavorful toppings found in traditional cuisines around the world and transforms them into savory smash burgers.
Sacred Cow Tavern
Whether you’re craving BBQ and jalapeno or taco and poutine, there is a mouth-watering burger (vegan options, too!) for everyone. This fun (and diet-friendly) eatery touts creative cocktails and a kitschy ambiance.
Union Station:
My husband was here weekly for OnIowa Live and given that the bar was down the street from our house, I got acquainted with their Santa Fe burger. Sautéed onions instead of fried onions takes this to the next level.
Blind Pig:
Two words: Diablo Burger. Make sure you take the ol’ Tums before this spicy delight.
Local Pour Street Food:
While your typical meat-and-cheese hamburgers are not menu staples, they have some fantastic vegan and vegetarian options! They serve the Impossible Burger dressed with sweet chili ketchup (vegan) as well as a dope black bean burger with sriracha aioli.
30 Hop:
If you’re into unique burgers and sandwiches, this place is your jam. Specialties from the 50/50 (my carnivore hubby’s favorite) and the Unami burgers on their rooftop on a cool early fall evening overlooking the blessed Target makes a great date.
Parlor City Pub & Eatery:
Located right across from NewBo City Market, this Cedar Rapids staple has both classic bar food as well as unique eats. Their hamburgers are some of my favorites. I’m not a fruit-with-my-burger type of girl, but the Blues Jam was the stuff dreams are made of.
