Bluebird Diner named top spot by Reader’s Digest

IOWA CITY — The Bluebird Diner at 330 E. Market St. in Iowa City was named the state’s most “iconic” diner by Reader’s Digest.

The report, published Sept. 10, names a single, memorable greasy spoon for each state.

“Meet the spot making what they call ‘Midwest soul food’ a very real — and delicious thing. Made with locally sourced ingredients, what’s on the menu at this Iowa City joint is classic country cooking with an unexpected twist,” the report reads. “Favorites include the Krakatoa omelet stuffed with bacon, jalapenos, pepper jack cheese and cilantro-lime cream cheese.”

The rankings incorporated customer ratings, TripAdvisor scores and “local gossip” to put top picks together, author Amanda Tarlton said.

Owners John Wilson and Thomas Connolly opened the Northside restaurant in 2008.

Sister restaurants include The Bluebird Cafe, which opened in North Liberty in 2011, and The Bluebird Cafe in Solon, which opened at 112 E. Main St. in March 2022.

Comments: (319) 398-8340; elijah.decious@thegazette.com